Editorial

Graduates should continue to follow passions despite job market doubts

Despite statistics that show a recent stagnant hiring period among college graduates and less interest from employers toward liberal arts majors, Class of 2013 graduates should continue to pursue careers they are passionate about.

An April report from the National Association of College and Employers anticipated a 2.1-percent increase in the hiring of college graduates. The organization also reports that employers are more interested in hiring graduates with professionally oriented majors like business, as opposed to those in the liberal arts.

Students in the Class of 2013 should pursue a job that makes them happy. A career path that does not begin with contentment — regardless of the paycheck — may not end with it.

Success is possible within the job-hunting process, and is not limited by the graduate’s major. Extracurricular activities and other undergraduate experiences can assist individuals in acquiring skills attractive to employers.

However, post-grad plans do depend on the individual and his or her plans after graduation. Those who plan to settle down immediately after might choose job stability instead of fulfillment in a field they are passionate about.



Regardless of a post-grad’s decision, the arduous process of job-hunting should not deter graduates from chasing a potential lifelong dream or job he or she hopes to have one day.

But graduates must be realistic, no matter their post-grad plans or college major. In addition to taking chances within their chosen field, graduates must balance these risks with an understanding of other industries, which could give them a well-rounded outlook and fall-back option that could help them compete in the job market.

Graduates facing the current economic state should remember this is just the beginning and must therefore be patient. Many jobs for recent college grads starting out in the market might not offer them their dream lifestyle or a large paycheck. However, that job could provide experience that might help them attain their ideal career.

Success is possible, but it will take time to reach a stable job that also grants satisfaction.





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