You’ve tossed your cap, framed your diploma and stepped into the world — only to land right back in your childhood bedroom, like nothing ever happened.
It’s no secret that unemployment among college graduates is at its highest level in over a decade. An oversaturated job market, the experience paradox, political instability and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence have all collided to create a brutal and uncertain landscape for new degree holders.
Thus, local and federal governments should step in to improve the situation by investing in job creation programs specifically for college graduates. Otherwise, the value of education will continue to erode, and a college degree will no longer be seen as a reliable path to opportunity.
The good news is that there are still things we can do in the meantime to differentiate ourselves as applicants and increase our chances of securing a job.
“Organizations want to hire people who are adaptable, quick learners, curious and coachable,” said Patty Prado, the executive director of career initiatives in the College of Liberal Arts. “If you can show that side of yourself beyond the skills that you do have, that is a really positive thing in the hiring process. … There are a lot of things that can be automated, but there are a lot of things that can’t. You want to be a nice blend of technical and human skills in whatever path you pursue.”
One way to showcase your irreplaceable humanity is through how you describe yourself. It’s not just the skills you’ve gained in college but how you’ve gained them. Your lived experiences, problem-solving abilities and emotional intelligence can set you apart from AI or other applicants. Understanding these aspects takes introspection; expressing them well in your LinkedIn profile, cover letter, emails and interviews requires self-awareness, empathy and clear storytelling.
The Liberal Arts Career Services offers professional guidance. Flawless job application materials that show attention to detail and careful revision go a long way.
“It is a great opportunity for students to connect with a career coach and have that one-on-one personal time to talk through their own situations, opportunities, what they have experience in and how they present that,” Prado said.
Nowadays, one of the strongest weapons is experience.
“I worked for a representative at the state capitol, then I worked for a senator (and) then I worked for a lobbyist,” said Diana Garcia, a third-year government and rhetoric and writing student. “Now, when employers are hiring me, they know that they don’t have to babysit me. … They want someone who knows how to hit the ground running.”
The type of experience is not what matters the most. What employers are looking for are transferable skills as well as your ability to genuinely articulate them.
Looking for jobs and applying is a daunting task, but perseverance can eventually set you apart.
“Everyone should take rejection as a way to grow into better applicants in the future,” Garcia said. “I applied for 20 jobs and I got one, but that one will make such a big difference to your job next semester or summer. Never give up applying.”
If you don’t get a job, ask why and use that as leverage for next time. Turn your weaknesses into your strengths.
This job market is tough — and it’s failing the very graduates it claims to reward. But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With true professionalism, real experience and the courage to ask for help, you can still be victorious.
Mendoza is a philosophy senior from El Paso, Texas.
