Choosing a college course is one of the most important—and sometimes overwhelming—decisions a young Filipino will face. With so many expectations from society, relatives, and even social media, many students feel pressured to choose something “prestigious” or financially rewarding. But what matters most is finding a path that matches their passion, strengths, and future goals.

As a parent, your role is crucial. You’ve seen your child grow up—you know their personality, dreams, and struggles. But college is also their journey. Your guidance must come with trust, empathy, and openness.

Here are practical and heartfelt ways Filipino parents can support their children in choosing the right course for college:

1. Create a Safe Space for Honest Conversations

Before any advice, your child needs to feel safe expressing their dreams. Many young people hesitate to speak up, fearing they’ll disappoint their parents. Create a non-judgmental space where they can say things like, “I don’t want to be a nurse,” or “I think I want to pursue arts.”

Avoid quick reactions. Instead, say:

“Tell me more about that.”

“What made you interested in that course?”

This shows you're listening, not judging.

2. Help Them Understand Themselves

Encourage your child to reflect on these:

Interests – What subjects do they love?

Strengths – Are they good at math, writing, organizing, or creating?

Personality – Do they like working with people or prefer behind-the-scenes roles?

Values – What causes or goals matter most to them?

If needed, use personality or career assessment tests. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and CHED offer free tools online that match interests to potential courses.

3. Research Courses and Careers Together

Sit with your child and explore the course options. Use the internet, school brochures, and even talk to professionals in different industries. Ask:

What are the subjects under this course?

What jobs can you pursue after?

Is this course available in your budget and preferred school?

Don’t just focus on big universities. Consider local colleges, TESDA programs, or alternative education pathways. It’s about the fit, not the fame.

4. Balance Passion with Practicality

Passion is important—but so is financial stability. As a parent, you can help your child assess:

Job demand – Are there opportunities for this field in the Philippines or abroad?

Starting salary – Is this career sustainable in the long run?

Opportunities for growth – Can they pursue further studies, work remotely, or build a business?

But remember: don’t shut down their dreams just because the career is unconventional. Many successful Filipinos thrive in digital arts, game development, content creation, and social entrepreneurship. The key is strategic passion—doing what they love, in a way that earns.

5. Share Your Own Experience—Without Making It About You

Your child might ask for your opinion. Be honest, but avoid pressuring them into copying your career path. Instead, share what you’ve learned about:

Regret over missed opportunities

The importance of enjoying your work

How careers can shift over time

Let them know that even adults are still growing and learning. This gives them permission to choose thoughtfully—not fearfully.

6. Explore Real-Life Experiences

Encourage your child to:

Attend online and in-person career talks

Join summer internships or volunteer programs

Shadow professionals or talk to college students in their chosen course

Watch local YouTube content about different careers

These real-life experiences can shape their understanding of what daily work in a certain field really looks like.

7. Be Open to Modern Careers and Alternative Paths

The job market has changed drastically. Courses like multimedia arts, animation, data science, and social work are rising in relevance. Even short-term tech courses or certifications in digital marketing can lead to great careers.

Support your child if they choose a non-traditional path. What matters is that they are committed, driven, and willing to learn.

8. Help Them Understand the Financial Side

Discuss the following:

Tuition fees, school supplies, and daily expenses

Scholarships or financial aid options

Dorming vs. commuting

Part-time work while studying

Some kids avoid their dream course because they’re scared of the cost. Reassure them that you’ll plan together—and remind them that many Filipino students succeed with a mix of hard work, resourcefulness, and scholarships.

9. Stay Involved Without Hovering

Don’t disappear after enrollment. Keep checking in with your child—not to police them, but to offer emotional support. Ask how classes are going, if they’re adjusting well, and if they need help.

Show interest without pressure. Let them know they can still shift courses if they realize it’s not the right fit. College is a journey, not a one-shot deal.

10. Remind Them That Their Worth Is Not in Their Course

Lastly, tell your child this:

“Your worth is not defined by the course you choose, but by how you grow, work hard, and stay true to yourself.”

In a society where many young Filipinos are compared or judged for their career paths, your unconditional support will give them the confidence to stand tall.

Final Thoughts

Being a Filipino parent in today’s world means learning to let go and grow with your child. Support them, but also give them the space to find their voice. Help them plan, but also let them dream. Your presence, encouragement, and love will be the most powerful guidance they receive, whether they choose engineering, fine arts, nursing, or film.

Because in the end, the right course isn’t always the most popular one. It’s the one that allows your child to become their best self.