2011 job outlook offers some hope for graduates

Alexander Robinson
Associate Editor

Graduation is now less than a month away, graduating seniors are planning the next stage of their lives, and with a job market still recovering from the recession, these seniors have some serious decisions to make.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), last year, only 24.4 percent of graduates who applied for a job had one waiting for them after graduation.  However, results of the NACE’s 2011 Job Outlook Spring Update projects that employers plan to hire 13.5 percent more new college graduates this year.

With national unemployment rates at 8.9% and Mississippi unemployment rates at 10.2% according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is easy to understand why students are contemplating life after college.

The recession that struck during the end of the last decade will have longstanding effects on the job market for years to come. The workers who were laid off had to re-enter the workforce, taking many of the jobs new graduates would obtain when entering the job market for the first time.

The unstable job market is the main factor cited by many graduates who are opting for advanced degrees. Many see these degrees not as an option, but a necessity.

Erica Coggins, a senior accounting major from Cleveland, Ohio has made her choice to pursue a career immediately after graduation.

She was assisted in making her decision by experience she gained through various internships.

“My internships were vital to me making my decision. I wanted to get my feet wet in various industries so I could have an idea of what I would like to do upon graduation.”

Coggins became aware of the various internship programs by attending conferences, like those sponsored by the National Association of Black Accountants.

“My field has also helped me to decide what I want to do. My major is specialized and in high demand,” said Coggins.

According to NACE, the major of accounting is the top degree that is in demand at the baccalaureate level.
Coggins views the fact that she is a black female as an additional benefit to finding employment.

“Companies are looking for diversity; an entirely white male environment limits the potential relationships between future clients,” said Coggins, who still plans to obtain an advanced degree in the future. “Most corporations offer tuition reimbursement, they will help you pay for your school.”

Ezana Demissie, a senior chemistry major from Ethiopia is headed to graduate school.
“I’ve been accepted to Harvard, so I’m headed up there,” said Demissie.

Demissie believes an advanced degree in is imperative in his field of study.

“There are no jobs in chemistry unless you acquire a master’s degree or a Ph.D.,” said Demissie. “There is also more money after graduate school, so I see it as a good investment.”

After finishing his education, Demissie aspires to return to Ethiopia and helping to eradicate some of illnesses that plague his country.

“I want to work with infectious diseases: HIV, AIDS, and tuberculosis, those are big killers back at home,” said Demissie.

Marcus Conway, a senior industrial technology major from Detroit, Mich., has yet to make a final decision as to what he wants to do after college.

“While in school, I’ve been trying to find my right path. I want different experiences and I want to be challenged,” said Conway. “I’ve had the opportunity to teach computer courses to 3rd and 8th grade students.”

Conway, who is now pursuing his teaching license added, “I am currently working in the Information Technology department at JSU, gaining networking experience by working with filing and programming directories.”

Lori Swanier, Director of Career Services for the College of Business outlines that neither the workforce nor graduate school are bad options.

“With the economy being in the shape that it is, students should take advantage of any opportunities they have available,” said Swanier. “If gainful employment is not available after graduation, graduate school is a viable option. Graduate school allows students to become more prepared, and allows employers to seek them at their respective universities. Anything that allows students to increase their competitiveness should be utilized.”