Is it normal to struggle to find a job after college?

You're not the only one having a tough time The job search can be a slog. It's hard, but it's normal. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you're the only one without a job. And don't scroll LinkedIn: remember, none of your classmates will post, “I'm still looking for a job, but I'm anxious and burnt out.”

Why is it so hard to find a job after college?

Common reasons why it's hard for recent college graduates to find jobs include: Uncertainty with major. High competition. Little work experience.

What happens if you can't find a job after college?

As a recent college graduate, you likely lack a lot of professional experience, but you can supplement this with internships and volunteer work. Actively search for intern opportunities in your desired industry to create a more attractive resume, gain valuable experience and meet professionals in your field.

How hard is it to get a job right after college?

Graduation might be the end of your college experience, but it is only the beginning of your career. Finding a job after graduation can be difficult. According to the University of Washington (UW), “it takes the average college graduate three to six months to secure employment after graduation.”

Is it normal to be unemployed after college?

Since 1990, the unemployment rate for recent grads almost always has been lower than for the general population. But that changed after covid. New grads have consistently fared worse than other jobseekers since January 2021, and that gap has only widened in recent months.

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How long is too long unemployed?

The stress of unemployment can take an even bigger toll on your mental health when your time without a job persists. If you have been job searching and applying and unemployed for longer than six months, it's time to revamp your strategy.

How long did it take you to get a job after college?

How long does it take to get a job after college? On average it takes three to six months for new graduates to find their first jobs. That can feel like a lifetime to someone who used to complete entire semesters in the same amount of time.

Why is finding a job so hard 2023?

Employers' hiring rate fell sharply in 2023, Zhao said. And workers are quitting less. That means fewer people are moving around. "It feels like the job market is in a bit of a holding pattern," Zhao said recently.

How many people actually get a job after college?

If you're nearing graduation and wondering, “What percentage of college students get a job after they graduate?” then the good news is that 72.3% of all college graduates in the U.S. are employed. Having a degree is a distinguishing factor when applying for a job.

What is the best first job after college?

How do I get a job after dropping out of college?

Consider freelancing, interning or volunteering. When applying for a job as a college dropout, it's important to show employers that you have the experience they're looking for in a candidate. Look for relevant internships and freelancing or volunteering opportunities you can add to your resume.

Is it important to get a job right after college?

Most people try to get a job immediately after graduation so they can support themselves financially. Other benefits of post-graduation employment include the ability to: Pay off student loans. Make large purchases such as a car or signing a lease or evening buying a home.

How many people can't find a job after college?

The unemployment rate for those with a bachelor's degree or higher is 4%. Mass media majors have an unemployment rate of 6.2%. General education majors have an unemployment rate of just 1.7%. 41.4% of college graduates are underemployed in their first job.

Do most people get jobs after college?

For most, it's a ticket to their first major career milestone. And great news: many students are reaping the benefits of their academic success to find their way into their first jobs! College graduates ages 25 to 34 boast an employment rate of 86%, based on a 2017 study by the National Center for Education Statistics.

How many college graduates are unemployed?

U.S. unemployment rate of recent graduates 2016-2023

In September 2023, about 4.4 percent of recent college graduates were unemployed in the United States. This was a significant decrease from September 2020, when the unemployment rate among recent college graduates was at nine percent.

What age do most people graduate college?

Good Afternoon. As a general rule, most students graduate from high school when they are 18 years of age. If they proceed directly into college, and complete the curriculum requirements in the normal four year allotment of time, they will graduate from college, at the age of 22.

What percentage of college students can't find a job?

U.S. underemployment of college graduates 2017-2023

In September 2023, about 40.1 percent of recent college graduates were underemployed in the United States.

Why is nobody hiring me?

You have too much experience. You're underqualified for the job. You need an industry connection. Your interviewing skills need improvement.

What time of year is hardest to find a job?

The summer and holiday season, starting around Thanksgiving, are the most difficult to interview since most companies slow down during those periods. Most people take their vacations and paid time off in July and August. The turnstile of workers coming and going away makes it hard to interview.

What to do if I can t find a job?

What percent of college graduates work in their field?

"In addition to dealing with financial insecurity, only 46% of college grads surveyed say they currently work in their field of study. 29% report working in a different field, while 16% of those under age 54 (and therefore not likely retired) say they are currently unemployed.

What is considered a recent college graduate?

Recent Graduates: Individuals who have completed (within two years) a qualifying associates, bachelors, masters, professional, doctorate, vocational/technical degree from a qualifying educational institution.

Are college degrees worth it?

College graduates still enjoy higher earnings than the average U.S. worker. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in 2022, bachelor's degree holders took home a median wage of $1,432 per week, while workers with just a high school diploma earned only $853. That's a difference of 68%.

What age is most unemployed?

The unemployment rate for people ages 16 to 24 in the United States in 2022 was 9.4 percent. However, this rate was much lower for people aged 45 and over, at 2.6 percent.