REASONS FOR THE CHOICE OF NURSING AS A CAREER AMONG STUDENTS IN A PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN MANILA, PHILIPPINES

Background: The choice of nursing as a career among students has been dramatically affected by the sudden rise of COVID-19 cases, in which the factors within the career may have caused motivation or demotivation. In this study, we determine the factors affecting the choice of nursing as a career among freshmen nursing students in a private university in Manila, Philippines. Methodology: A descriptive study using a survey methodwas employed on 110 respondents fromfreshmen students in a selected private university. Results: The most common reason that motivates students the choice Nursing as a career includes work itself (x=4.62), possibilities for growth (x=4.54), responsibility (x=4.44), achievement (x=4.44), and interpersonal relationship (x=4.39).Meanwhile, the least reasons are high-impact salary (x=3.89), advancement (x=3.85), and working conditions (x=3.85). Conclusion:Motivation plays a crucial role in the decision of students to pursue nursing as a career or profession. Identifying and understanding the reasons for choosing Nursing as a careercan assist nursing educators and policymakersin creating an environment that continues attracting and retaining passionate individuals in this noble profession. Recommendation: Educational institutions should invest in comprehensive career counseling programs among students before choosing an academic college program.