Asklemmy

That's a good point to hit. Our system encouraged everyone to get a university degree to find work/career, but it doesn't have to be the path.

Lots of skilled trades out there that offer lots of opportunity to move up while earning well.

My example, I went to Uni because that's what you do but ran out of my own funds year one, so had to go back to work to save for next round. I started working on the shop floor at a tooling place. They had openings for designers in engineering so I got in there and learned tooling design using CAD/CAM software, they offered apprenticeships so night school was free. As tooling became more automated it led to learning hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical wiring and controls. Later into Lean philosophy for plant efficiencies, etc. Along the way you are in charge of the project and manage time.

Now after 35+ years and changing jobs, my role is often as a consultant and includes mentoring engineers on how to use various software offerings (auto or industrial), or going into companies to conduct audits and produce reports that hilight what they can do better.

It was an organic path, where each learning step along the way led to something new opening up. So rather than a long paragraph like above I think its important for them to not be to anxious; because you can change paths and make choices along the way and end up with something enjoyable of your own making.