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New College Grads Face Challenging Job Prospects

By: Katie Thompson
Updated: June 20, 2012
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Bubba Weckwerth has worked at this grocery chain for the past 7 years.
A recent graduate of Hardin Simmons University, he now has a bachelors degree under his belt, and is eager to put it to work.
There's just one problem.

"I've applied to over 150 jobs all over the state," Weckwerth explains.

He can't find that first "real job."

"I was going to do teachers, and then the teaching market kinda stinks right now. So im just kind of in limbo right now," Said Weckwerth.

His story is echoed by thousands of other graduates, who instead of landing that dream job in a big city, are now living at home with their parents and trying to make ends meet.

"It will take more work than they ever imagined." That's the harsh reality says James Greer, Director of Career Services at McMurry University.

"Some of them are just taking just anything, whatever pays the bills, and then looking for something a little better...Which is very difficult," Greer says.   

Difficult, and different than what many graduates had in their minds 4 years ago.

"You don't want to stay in the same place, and so for me, I interviewed at a lot of other universities but none of them worked out," Says ACU grad David Pillen.

Pillen chose to take a position at  Abilene Christian University, and continue into graduate school. It's a move he may not have originally planned, but for now, he's happy.

"I'm just happy to have a job right now," Pillen says.

Career experts urge young people to stay away from job engine websites such as Monster and CareerBuilder. They say instead, go directly through the employer.

Comments



alex a. June 20, 2012 at 11:04 pm



Here is an idea... Major in something that has value in the marketplace. Go to school with a plan, and not just because thats "what your supposed to do". Also while your in school pick up a part time job that will benefit your resume when your done. There are plenty of jobs out there for people who network and have something worth while to offer employers.

alex a. June 20, 2012 at 11:01 pm

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