In this paper, we purport to account for relations that may be established amongst youngsters within the configuration of projects and paths youngsters face. The paper emphasises processes of modernisation experienced in the fields of education and employment, and their impact on the life projects of young people. Our analysis is based on two research projects carried out in Chile: Análisis de las encuestas nacionales de juventud (Analysis of the National Youth Surveys) (1997; 2000; 2003 and 2006) (2007) and Inserción laboral y trayectorias sociales juveniles (Labour Insertion and Youth's Social Paths) (2008).