As the class of 2009 prepares to enter the worst job market in decades, Adecco has released their latest American Workplace Insights Survey that offers advice from college graduates of every generation.
Pursue a career that you like, despite earning potential. The most popular piece of advice among former American college graduates (71%) was to pick a career because they like it, not because of earning potential. Only 13% percent of Americans advise current students to pick a career based on salary alone.
Today’s students do have more stress, but do not let that turn into panic. 72% of American college graduates agree that today’s graduates have more worries about finding a job than they did. Despite the added pressure, only 18% of Americans advise today’s students to take any job they can get.
Be flexible. 70% of American college graduates advise current students to be open minded about relocating for job opportunities. Surprising, 35% of Americans who hold a college degree advise current students to consider unpaid internships as an option.
Get to work now, and do not let the economy delay your career. Only 22% of American college graduates advise today’s students to enter graduate school immediately after earning their undergraduate degree. Furthermore, only 6% of American college graduates say that current students should enjoy a year off and hope the job market gets better.
Graduate degrees aren’t an immediate priority, and to some they do not matter as much as a solid resume. Only 22% of American college graduates advise students to pursue a graduate degree immediately after graduation, or even within a few years. Almost half of Americans (46%) advise students to start getting on the job experience because it’s more important than an advanced degree.
The advice gleaned from the American Workplace Insights Survey is spot on. The big question I have is, "What will today's graduates do?" Take any job and "exist" until their dream job comes along or remain jobless without taking a job that does not suit their interests and passions.
Student loan debt is increasing. According to The College Board (Trends in Student Aid – 2008) - In each year between 2000 – 01 and 2006 – 07, an estimated 60% of bachelor’s degree recipients borrowed to fund their education. Average debt per borrower rose 18%, from $19,300 to $22,700 in 2007 dollars over this time period. Average debt per bachelor’s degree recipient increased from $10,600 to $12,400.
My advice to college graduates seeking the dream job they cannot land - seek the unpaid internship option and strongly consider graduate school. It worked for me.
