Graduating in a troublesome economy

BY JULIA SHANDS Editor-in-Chief

College students, but especially seniors, feel the immense pressures of inflation. With groceries being at an all-time high, it’s become difficult to keep fridges stocked, and seniors are expected to enter this turbulent market with little to their name and no solid ground to stand on. It’s apparent on the faces of those who will soon walk across the stage to receive their diplomas that fear and worry are constantly surrounding them like helicopter parents. I’m here to tell you what to expect after turning your tassel on May 13 and how the Tigers can end up on top.

First, the economy hasn’t yet taken a turn for the worst. Employers are currently facing the issue of not being able to fill their available roles with qualified applicants; therefore, there’s a shortage of employees. Although this seems positive for job-searching seniors, there could be a quick shift in this trend as the economy continues to slow.

Dr. Chris Brune, professor of finance, explains the potential cause of this shift and what negative consequences we may face as inflation steadily increases across the country.

“The Federal Reserve has been highly focused on reducing inflation,” Brune said. “The primary tool used by the Fed to fight inflation is the interest rate it charges banks for loans. As the rate increases, banks pass along the higher cost to companies who need capital to continue growing their business.”

An increase in interest rates on bank loans leads to an increase in expenses for companies looking to expand, which in turn, forecasts the inevitable downturn graduates are dreading to see.

Brune added, “And as the cost of borrowing increases, businesses either look for other expenses to reduce or see their business cease to grow. When this outcome is repeated across the economy, the potential for a recession increases, and businesses may pull back on hiring as one way to further reduce expenses.” results.

“New graduates may need to broaden their searches,” Brune said. “That’s not to say that good jobs won’t be available for good candidates, but finding the ideal job in the ideal location may become more challenging. Remember that it’s rare to find your dream job right out of the gate.” ions. Those in high positions want to see that you can develop your own ideas on prevalent topics.

Effort is key in our economic decline because competition is high. Do more than what’s expected of you. Besides perfecting your resume and cover letter, your LinkedIn profile should speak volumes. In recent years, LinkedIn has shifted from being more than a platform to make connections; now, it’s the number one hiring platform.

Adam Wheat, director of career and calling, also encourages seniors to put opportunity in their own hands. Ultimately, the economy makes job hunting harder but getting a job is up to you.

“The economy as a whole does not determine whether you get a job,” Wheat said. “That power still lies partly in your hands and partly in the hands of the employers you approach. Even with the shifts we are seeing in the market, there are still plenty of jobs being offered.”

Let this worry fuel your fire and encourage you to put your best foot forward in the aspects you can control during the hiring process. This, along with being open-minded, can help you to achieve positive

In a recent conversation, Judy Campbell, president of JC Strategies, recommended that job seekers not only broaden their connections but also post leadership articles and share their thoughts and opin-

So, should you be worried about getting a job in this economy? It definitely makes the process more difficult, but if you’re willing to put in the work and demonstrate a mindset geared toward learning, you’ve got a good shot of obtaining everything you’ve ever dreamed of—an eight to five and a 401K. You’re one step closer to the American dream.