Bridging the Readiness Gap: A Comparative Study of Italian and International Students’ Perceptions of Their Adaptability and Preparedness for the Transition to Employment.

This master’s thesis investigates the role of career adaptability, life satisfaction and ambiguity tolerance in the transition from academia to the labor market, with a particular focus on comparisons between Italian and international students. The study examines how these psychological resources shape graduates’ preparedness and self-perception, which in turn, affects their entry into the workforce. A total sample of 64 students, evenly split between Italian and international participants, completed measures including validated scales such as Career Adapt-Abilities Scale (CAAS), Career Decision Ambiguity Tolerance Scale (CDAT), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The results indicate that career adaptability is a strong predictor of both life satisfaction and ambiguity tolerance, highlighting its crucial role in resilience when navigating uncertain career contexts. Italian students reported higher life satisfaction than their international peers, demonstrating systemic barriers persistent in policies, education, and career contexts. Furthermore, the use of career services was positively associated with adaptability and life satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of the availability and accessibility of institutional support in facilitating career transitions.