Many students who began college with the hope of landing that dream job right after graduation, and without much effort, are now feeling the sting of today's job market where employment is no longer guaranteed.
The Career Resource Center held its annual Spring Job Fair on Monday,April 20 in the Ybor Room. Students met with employers, handed out resumes, filled out job applications, and networked. The event was open to alumni and the community as well. The Ybor Room was filled with a variety of employers, including Bank of America, Frito Lay, the US Department of Homeland Security, and My TV 32. It has been tough for the 2008 grads to find their feet in today's economy, and some experts say that this spring may prove even tougher for the graduates of 2009. A survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers says that the number of people that companies are planning to hire is down from last year. The survey says employers expect to hire 22 percent fewer grads this spring than the number they hired this time last year. "The job market -- we see it on the news how bad it is," said Alisa Keaton, Manager of Career Planning and Placement at the Ybor Campus Career Center. "I've been at this college for seven years and this is the worst I've seen it." Students and their families are more than frustrated with the economy's downward slope. "It is very hard to find a job in today's economy." said Shannon Minnifield, 17, a second semester student at HCC There are a few, however, who can see a silver lining as well as the big picture. "You've got to be self-motivated," said Harold Hunter, a liberal arts major and member of the Nation of Islam. Hunter said Americans are going back to school since they cannot find jobs and that America is being forced to get educated. "Education is first and foremost," he said, "because that's going to take care of your financial responsibilities." How can college students decrease their chances of getting stomped on by the job market? Keaton says it is better to take action before you graduate by doing your research and taking advantage of your resources. "Get ahead of the game," she said. "Make sure you have the skills to succeed. Don't wait until the last minute to learn how to do a resume or dress for an interview."
Be the first to comment on this article!