This study examined the relationship between maximizing decision-making styles and vocational calling among undergraduate Communication Science and Disorders (CSD) students. Our findings revealed that students who scored higher on a measure of maximizing tendencies in decision-making reported significantly higher presence of calling and meaningful work experiences. Data from 75 University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire students was analyzed using decision-making scales, meaningful work measures, and life purpose and meaning assessments. Factor analysis was used to identify two dimensions of meaningful work: personal meaning and purpose and growth and understanding; both were positively associated with maximizing tendencies. Presence of calling was strongly correlated with meaningful work, while search for calling showed negative associations with meaningful work measures. These results suggest that maximizing decision-making styles focusing on optimal outcomes may enhance vocational calling and meaning in work among CSD students. These findings challenge previous assumptions of negative work-related outcomes associated with a maximizing decision-making style and provide insight into potential educational interventions to promote a sense of meaning and vocation in undergraduate CSD students.
