College Grads Still Struggling To Find Work
FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) - They are becoming the face of a generation forced to make life adjustments after the recession.
Without work many recent college graduates aren't starting careers and lives in new cities. Instead, they are hanging out with their parents and holding on to any part-time job, hoping it becomes permanent.
Experts say previously it would normally take four to six weeks for a college grad to get a job — in today's economy it is closer to two to three months.
Stephanie Farnsworth is working on one of the biggest projects of her life - finding a job. The 25-year-old has applied for dozens of jobs.
She has been interviewed by few employers, but has gotten even fewer offers - none in fact. "I just never imagined it would be so hard to find a job."
It's not because of a lack of education. Stephanie graduated in 2010 from Oklahoma State University.
The former college cheerleader is now living back home, hoping to land a teaching job. "I can't pay bills, I have to live at home with my father."
In record-setting numbers, young adults struggling to find work suffer from the highest unemployment since World War II, and more of them are living in poverty.
But there is one bright side says John Thompson with TCU's Career Services "It's not as treacherous as it is for people who have been unemployed for some time."
Thompson says young job seekers have some advantages, and they should use them.
"They are able to accept lower pay than older job seekers. They're more tech savvy—and should use that to connect with a younger and bigger target market."
He adds younger job seekers can and should be more flexible. "You may be an economics major but finding a job in your field may take you a long while in the meantime you may have to take a job outside your area."
Some recent graduates are having to hold down two to three part time jobs just to make ends meet. With the holiday season approaching and stores hiring, they are hoping that could lead into something a little more permanent.
Farnsworth is substitute teaching for now, but still believes that she'll soon have a classroom of her own. "I refuse to give up on my dream."
