EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY STUDENTS’ INTERESTS AND TALENTS IN SUPPORT OF CAREER ASPIRATION AWARENESS AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF FOLLOW-UP COUNSELING SERVICE ACTION PLANS BY SCHOOL COUNSELORS AT SMP NEGERI 1 VII KOTO SUNGAI SARIK

Abstract

This community service program addresses the limited self-understanding of students regarding their interests, talents, and career aspirations, which often affects their ability to plan future careers realistically. The program aimed to identify students’ interests and talents, introduce relevant career aspirations, and formulate follow-up counseling action plans implemented by guidance and counseling teachers. The method employed a participatory approach through orientation activities, presentations, interest and talent assessment forms, group discussions, individual assistance, and reflective evaluation. The program was conducted with junior high school students at SMP N 1 VII Koto Sungai Sarik and involved guidance and counseling teachers as facilitators. The results indicate an improvement in students’ self-understanding, broader knowledge of the world of work, clearer career aspirations, and enhanced ability to formulate personal career plans. In addition, guidance and counseling teachers gained structured action plans to support sustainable career counseling services. The program concludes that systematic identification of interests and talents combined with career information services effectively supports early career development and strengthens the quality of school-based counseling services.