Fresno Grads Face Tough Job Market | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Fresno, CA The future is reflected in the faces of Fresno State seniors who are being fitted for caps and gowns as they prepare to graduate. "I'm done with school. I just can't wait to get a real job," said Fresno State senior Heather Newport.

Psychology graduate Heather Newport has a job lined up after graduation, but for some other seniors the thought of not being able to get a job in today's economy is less than picture perfect. "We see more anxiety with students. All the talk of the economy and what's going on there's been more worry," Fresno State Student Advisor Ken Ternate.

"A lot of them are thinking of staying for their masters and continuing their education," said Fresno State Senior Ling Chow.

More and more students are staying in school longer hoping the economy improves. In the fall Crystal Carrillo will attend a private university for another year and a half to earn a master's degree in respiratory therapy. "With a bachelors degree there isn't much out there for you. You need to specialize in something."

This also means she will spend more money on education. "It is tough, but i believe in the end it will be worth it."

Fresno State Career administrators say students are not only competing with other graduates, but professionals who have been laid off as well. Aleta Wolf said there are still opportunities in business, engineering and health occupations -but graduates with limited work experience and skills may struggle. "I think the challenge can be for liberal arts students that don't have related job skills."

While seniors pick out class rings-many wonder how to make themselves shine above rest to get ahead in the working world.