The Class of 2025 is on the brink of entering the job market, and the outlook is not as optimistic as one would hope. A recent survey conducted by Handshake sheds light on the concerns that plague this graduating class, revealing a sense of pessimism and worry among students. Here are some key findings from the survey:
- Pessimism about Job Prospects: A significant 57% of seniors from the Class of 2025 feel pessimistic about kickstarting their careers. The fear of tough competition in the job market, mounting student loan debt, and the increasing presence of AI technologies add to their unease. This sentiment marks a notable increase compared to the previous year’s graduating class, with only 49% feeling similarly discouraged.
- Student Loan Debt Stress: Student loan debt emerges as a major source of stress for the Class of 2025, with 54% of students highlighting this as a significant worry. Surprisingly, only 46% of students believe that their current student loan debt is manageable. The average student loan borrower is predicted to have over $37,000 in student loans, leading to an average monthly payment of $504.
- Career Prospects: Despite immediate apprehensions, students foster hope for their long-term career prospects. The current political climate and uncertainties surrounding the impact of AI on job availability add to their anxiety. However, the majority of students feel that their college experience has equipped them with the necessary skills for personal and professional growth.
- Proactive Job Search: Many students are actively engaging in initiatives to improve their job prospects. 68% are attending career fairs and networking events, 63% are applying to more jobs, and 61% are pursuing internships. Yet, it is concerning that a significant portion of students (one-third) report having no experience with their college career center.
The journey of the Class of 2025 reflects the ongoing challenges faced by college graduates in today’s world, characterized by a tough job market and looming student loan debt. Despite the hurdles, students are resilient and continue to take steps to secure a promising future. As they navigate through these uncertainties, it is essential for students to seek support, explore available resources, and stay proactive in their job search endeavors. Through perseverance and determination, the Class of 2025 can conquer the challenges that lie ahead.
