Every year around May, students around the country walk across the stage and receive their diplomas, yet many have been unable to find jobs relating to their fields of study and feel frustration towards the job market.
One such student is Sydney Shoaf, a 2023 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in science and psychology, who has struggled to find a job in her desired field. In 2024, she graduated with a master’s degree in school psychology, which will be the furthest degree she receives.
“My experience in the job market has been a little frustrating. I think the most frustrating thing is comparing myself to other people who are having more luck in the application process,” Shoaf said. “It can be frustrating to look back at all the time you spent applying for jobs just for it to not lead anywhere.”
Another student, John Cobb, received a degree in 2023 and has applied to over 60 jobs since graduation.
“It’s complicated. I got a degree in computer science where it seemed like I was essentially promised a job outside of college,” he said. “I’ve been told so many times prior to entering college, and even in college, that science and math degrees are always needed. So I’ve been confused and frustrated with the job market.”
In a report by Statista, the recorded number of recent graduates that are unemployed has been lowered from 9% at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to 4.5% in May of 2024. Although this seems like a step in the right direction, this research includes jobs students have kept since graduating with many students being underemployed.
“I’ve applied to many jobs in my field, but right now I’m trying to find a temporary job to ensure I have money coming in,” Cobb said. “I’m looking at places I didn’t think I would look towards after graduation. Factory jobs, office assistants, anything I can add to my resume.”
Underemployment, according to Merriam-Webster, means “the condition in which people in a labor force are employed at less than full-time or regular jobs or at jobs inadequate with respect to their training or economic needs.”
“I’m looking at jobs that I think I’m well suited for, but I’m also looking at jobs that would push me out of my comfort a little bit because honestly you don’t know where your strengths lie,” Shoaf said. “I’m also applying for jobs that I think would make me a better person, make me a better employee and turn some of my weaknesses into strengths.”
A report by the Strada Education Foundation uncovered that “52% of graduates with a terminal bachelor’s degree are underemployed one year after completing.” Time goes by fast in college, and some may recommend starting the job search early.
“The most important thing for standing out in the job market is starting early… if you’re a freshman in college, it feels like looking for a job is so far away, but it goes by so fast,” Shoaf said. “I think the most important thing to remember is that every rejection is a redirection.”
Lindsay Collier is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected]
