Graduating college is a bittersweet feeling for many, as students escape the challenges of strenuous study only to find themselves in preparation to find a full-time job. It is at least fair to state that this can be quite troublesome for students, considering the still questionable economic outlook.
There is hope, however. It just involves a little sacrifice, and perhaps some progressive decisions. One can start by ignoring the messages from the mass media that sometimes paint a gloomy and inaccurate portrait for would-be job seekers.
For example, many graduates from UTM complain about the lack of jobs there are. Many are referring to jobs in the West Tennessee area, and they are correct about the shortage, to a certain extent. Coordinator of the UTM Student Success Center Candace Goad said that the number of jobs in this particular area is limited, but traveling three hours east to Nashville might shed some light on more opportunities.
“People talk about how the economy is so bad, but I just don’t fully see it,” Goad said.
While the northwest region of Tennessee isn’t as populated as the rest of the state, students can rest assured that there are a growing number of jobs, with new needs being recognized. However, Goad explains that the willingness to relocate to a different area could potentially open many doors for a future career.
“I’ve seen many graduating students move to Nashville, Memphis, St. Louis and other surrounding areas for employment,” Goad said.
A variety of jobs in engineering, management and many other fields are beginning to sprout and are predicted to continually do so. Behavioral science majors are also increasing in demand, as the American population ages and becomes more diverse.
“As the population ages, more elderly are requiring assistance, which [gives] psychology, sociology, nursing and those types of majors … more employment opportunities,” Goad said.
While online postings for jobs are an obvious place to start to look for employment, the UTM website offers links for career help, and Goad strongly encourages students to utilize these resources.
”Some students don’t know we have an entire webpage that helps with both career placement and job search skills,” Goad said.
Students are also encouraged to avoid being choosy in the pursuit of jobs, whether it be during school or after graduation. With the price of living remaining relatively high, the accumulation of money must be met. Working at a lower wage job does not necessarily imply one must stay there. In fact, working a less skilled job could be an advantage.
“Employers will like to have seen someone who started from the bottom and worked their way up,” Goad said.
Doing adequate research and branching out of one’s comfort zone will increase the possibilities for a college graduate. The process of graduation and stepping into the “real world” is a frightening, but necessary step. Remaining confident and taking advantage of the institutional resources will be much more beneficial than sitting around and waiting for a job to come to you.
Assistance and guidance can be found at the UTM Student Success Center webpage under the Career Employment and Placement Services tab. Job postings, interview tips and many other useful links are available 24/7 for every student.
