Graduation looms, but what’s next for seniors? Many NCC seniors are preparing for and securing their plans after college before the spring semester ends. Some have jobs lined up while others are continuing their search or going for their masters degree. However, job descriptions may cause applicants to feel discouraged on their employment hunt.
NCC student perspective
Hundreds of NCC students became alumni on May 4 and will begin a new chapter in life. Many of them are looking out for post-graduation jobs or already have work arranged straight out of school. Graphic design major Mia Sciabica, ‘25, shared her insight on her planned future after college.
“I don’t have anything set in stone,” Sciabica, ‘25, said. “I’m debating going for further education because I am interested in becoming a professor one day. I’m figuring out how to go about that.”
She is not the only one in this situation. A study published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers in October 2024 revealed that only 57.2% of 2023 graduates found full-time employment within six months of graduation.
Additionally, a February 2024 study from the Strada Education Foundation and Burning Glass Institute reported that 52% of graduates with a bachelor’s degree are underemployed one year after graduation. They define underemployment as “working in jobs that do not require a degree or make meaningful use of college-level skills.”
Are job descriptions discouraging applicants?
Seniors sorting through entry-level job listings are noticing similarities among a number of them—they can sound a bit contradicting. The descriptions themselves do not seem to be fitting for a recent college graduate. Certain roles ask some sort of footing in the workforce to be considered for that job or position.
From Dec. 2017 to Aug. 2021, research found 35% of LinkedIn postings requested three years minimum of relevant work experience. This is according to LinkedIn’s previous senior editor George Andres and current data scientist Biran Xu.
Furthermore, job-seekers might feel more discouraged when listings show how many others have applied to the same role. Not only that, but it can be especially difficult for students nearing graduation.
“I think it’s hard to find jobs out of college because a lot of entry-level positions you find on LinkedIn, you can see that it has over 100 applicants,” Sciabica, ‘25 said. “So, it’s really disheartening to see because then you feel like you’re probably not qualified.”
Preparing for post-graduation
Students gaining experience in their major’s field may help them develop useful skills for future jobs. Sciabica, ‘25, said she became the lead graphic design intern at an art gallery. Because of this internship and role, she mentioned her attainment of valuable real-world exposure.
“I learned how to be more professional,” Sciabica, ‘25 said. “I also learned what it means to work for a company because they had certain guidelines for what they wanted design-wise.”
NCC provides a social network called Handshake that connects students with employers for both jobs and internships. Students not already enrolled can sign up to find their next employment opportunity.
Moreover, students who need assistance in finding their next steps can visit NCC’s Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD). The CCPD offers various resources such as resume and cover letter reviews, elevator pitch practice and interview preparation.
Students can go to their website for more information about the CCPD and appointment options.
