This research examines the individual and societal factors influencing students' decisions to pursue careers in the media sector in Bangladesh. While media has evolved significantly since the 1990s, the nation faces a shortage of competent journalists, with traditional journalism increasingly replaced by social media. This study delves into understanding the motivations and barriers faced by journalism students at 16 universities across Bangladesh, using a sample of 340 respondents. Factor and regression analyses revealed that students' enjoyment of their major and past media experiences significantly predicted their likelihood of pursuing a media career. Perceptions of media fairness and accuracy positively influenced career interest, while distrust in media had a negative effect. The importance of media for democracy did not significantly impact career choice. This highlights the critical role of personal interest and media perceptions in shaping students' career decisions.