Graduating from college is typically framed as an exciting milestone that ushers in a new chapter of independence and growth, but for many students graduating in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the prospect of entering the job market is terrifying.
Unemployment in the U.S. rose higher during three months of the coronavirus pandemic than it did during the Great Recession of 2007-2009, according to the Pew Research Center.
Although unemployment has fallen to about 10 percent from a high of nearly 16 percent in May, the job market is still looking bleak for many—particularly college students and recent graduates.
The National Association of Colleges and Employers found 4% of companies had revoked job offers in April 2020, with another 19% considering such a move. Prior to the pandemic, college graduates already faced employment challenges. It took the average graduate 3-6 months to secure a job after college. Meanwhile about 50 percent went unemployed or worked in a job that did not require a college degree.
There is some relief on the horizon. For example, some students may be eligible for unemployment insurance and jobless benefits. In addition, some industries and companies are thriving during the pandemic—such as cleaning services, grocery stores, meal prep services, game makers, virtual conferencing companies, and web-based services.
Many recent graduates are adapting their career strategies to match the current job climate—taking temporary positions or broadening their search to include additional industries. Others who can afford it are using the time to take a “gap year”—or time off between college and professional life to identify priorities and goals.
If you are a recent graduate, RecDiv supports you in whatever path you decide to take. Our online job search platform was built specifically for students and graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. We connect you with top employers and help you find that perfect job or internship faster…even in the midst of a pandemic.
