Courses and occupations: knowing possibilities for professional choice

Abstract

The study presents reflections about an extension project performed in a Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rio Grande do Sul. This project aimed to provide graduating high school students from the city´s municipalitly schools, information about the courses offered by the institution, in order to assist them in the professional selection process and reduce the dropout rates related to lack of knowledge of the chosen course. This program was attended by eight of the nine schools defined as the target public, totalizing 459 students. The project provides reflection and qualification spaces for the professional selection process, by discussing about courses, training opportunities and professional careers. The actions developed expanded the local knowledge of the institution, allowed greater congruence between the conceptions and expectations of students and the reality of courses offered, encouraging more conscious choices and consequently greater adaptation and satisfaction with the course and the chosen occupation.