Local universities say job market looks promising for college graduates despite fears of market cool down
DELMARVA – “We’re seeing that the number of students who are getting jobs this time near graduation is a little higher than its been the past couple of years,” Tauriello said.
More than 1,300 students are expected to graduate this spring from Salisbury University.
As of April, Maryland’s unemployment rate sits at 2.5% percent according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics April jobs report showed nationally that 253,000 jobs were created. Despite the increase from early this year, that number is still down compared to just a year ago.
Clare Tauriello with SU’s Careers Services Department says that’s a strong indicator that students are walking into a promising workforce. “Many of those opportunities are in a variety of markets from health care to some of the service industries. So we know that there’s tremendous opportunities even though we’ve heard there may be some cooling,” Tauriello said.
That’s the same for students over in Delaware, as Delaware State University’s Career Services Director Terry Bankston says more than 14,000 jobs with the state are currently up for grabs. “Not just on the legislative side, but the wildlife to behavioral health. All those things are available,” Bankston said.
Yet, those we spoke with say with availability comes competition. “Expect that you may get a no when you apply for a job. It may be one you really wanted, which could be very disappointing, but that it’s very important to move forward in a positive manner,” Tauriello said.
DSU says they’re one step ahead of that as they push to connect students with internship opportunities as early as freshman year. “And they come in at a higher level of income and they come in at a second or third level position within the organization,” Bankston said.
University staff we spoke with say the best advice for job seekers is preparation and that includes building up a network. “A great place to start is on linked in and thinking about if there’s a person at a certain company or organization, they’re looking at that might be working there or if there’s an alumnus that works there and reach out,” Tauriello said.
We’re told there’s still a desperate need for health care workers and educators. Those are just some of many industries still bouncing back from the pandemic. Both universities also say there are also a variety of opportunities available in finance and STEM locally as well.
Students are also encouraged to look closely at benefit packages with potential employers as some often include perks like help with student loan repayment.
Students should also look into entrepreneurship as a possible backup plan. Experts say the industry still looks very strong in that sector.
