Abstract:

The relationship between university students' career future and life satisfaction is an important factor that affects both their academic success and overall quality of life. The perception of career future refers to students' expectations about finding a job and progressing in their careers after graduation. These expectations directly impact students' motivation and academic performance. Students with high career expectations are more willing and determined to achieve their goals, which allows them to focus more on their studies and other educational activities. Therefore, the perception of career future makes the university experience more meaningful for students and increases their life satisfaction.

Life satisfaction indicates the level of contentment individuals feel about their lives and is influenced by many factors. Among university students, life satisfaction is shaped by elements such as academic success, social relationships, personal development, and hope for the future. Positive expectations regarding career future are a significant factor that increases students' life satisfaction. Students who do not worry about the future and believe they will be successful in their careers feel more secure and happy. This positively reflects on their overall mental health and quality of life.

On the other hand, uncertainties and anxieties about career future can negatively affect students' life satisfaction. Students who are concerned about finding a job may experience stress and anxiety. These concerns can lower their academic performance and negatively impact their social relationships. Students who feel hopeless about achieving their career goals may lose their motivation, which can reduce their overall life satisfaction. Therefore, it is important for universities to offer career planning and counseling services to reduce these concerns and increase both students' career future perceptions and life satisfaction.

The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between career future and life satisfaction for 610 students studying at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa. According to the correlation analysis, a 39.4% positive relationship was found between career future and life satisfaction. The regression analysis results indicated that career future has a positive and significant effect on life satisfaction (β=0.410, p<0.01). In conclusion, there is a strong relationship between university students' perception of career future and life satisfaction. Students with high career expectations and hope for the future tend to be more successful and happy in both their academic and personal lives. Universities play an important role in enhancing students' life satisfaction by supporting their career planning and strengthening this perception. This support helps students be better prepared for the job search process after graduation and reinforces their belief in achieving their career goals. Thus, the support provided during the university experience creates positive effects on students' future lives.

Keywords:

Career Future, Life Satisfaction, University Students, Statistical Analysis.