How College Students Can Cope with the Pressure to Find a Job

In today’s troubled economy, college graduates are faced with the constant worry that they will not find a job, let alone a job in their chosen field. Some people point towards liberal arts degrees claiming they are not the best choice, and science degrees are viewed more favorably. While some people blame unemployment on the choice of a major, others say that they are unsure what effect a major will have on job prospects. Students currently in college can take the needed steps to ensure that their chances for finding employment after graduation are not all in vain.

Students should not throw away the opportunity to work in college, this can include taking part in a work-study program which most colleges offer. Work-study is not always related to a student’s major, however some students find that the work done through these programs can lead to work after graduation within the school. This is usually helpful for students who are wishing to go into some type of administrative position. Besides work study, students can look at internships to help them gain more experience.

One great example is Indiana University which holds internship opportunities abroad, specifically in London working for London based media organizations. The opportunity is one which students should consider, as it provides the chance to learn more about another country as well as gain hands-on experience in a trade. Similar programs are offered at other schools and students should consider giving them a try. A May 2011 Rutgers Survey indicated that 29% of students wished they had done more internships or part-time work. While the job market has improved in comparison to last year, graduates still tend to think negatively when it comes to finding a job in their field (or any job at all).

Those still in college should not give up so easily when hearing of friends or former classmates who have yet to find a job after graduation. Students should talk to advisers now and make sure that they are doing everything they can to get the most out of the opportunities available to them. Students should also make an effort to visit their schools’ career services office for advice and help. Yes, getting the needed experience is important but making sure that one’s resume and cover letter are structured well is one of the steps to making sure that the job you want is not out of reach. Friends, mentors, and advisors can all help students to ensure that they are doing what is needed to get the job that is desired.

A Gallup poll indicated that the longer a person is out of work the  more their well-being is affected. This certainly applies to college graduates, as some find themselves sending out resume after resume for weeks or even months after they graduate. Students do not need to feel as though they should surrender themselves to a difficult job market, rather they should seize opportunities in college to make themselves stand out. It’s really probably a lot better for your health and your mind if you stop worrying, as sometimes a job can sneak up on you when you least expect it. Regardless, best of luck to students in college now -- you have a say in your future but not the economy.