As undergraduate students begin to explore their potential interests in the workforce, a primary focus is which fields have the most availability. Students prepare for life after graduation by taking part in internships, work studies, research and other avenues of professional development.
“I think there are a lot of opportunities post-grad, but I will say I have noticed that a lot more companies and employers are looking for individuals with prior experience such as internships and volunteer positions. I think it has pushed college students more into the workforce while in school so that they are able to gain experience, so that it is an easier hiring process,” Karis Phillips ‘26 said.
Phillips, a participant on the Wofford-Converse Master’s of Art in Teaching program, plans to teach in Spartanburg after college.
“Teachers are always in need and through Wofford, Spartanburg One, and Converse, I have been given the opportunity to continue my education with no cost and a guaranteed job right after the program concludes,” Phillips said.
However, some seniors and recent college graduates have commented on what seems to be a decline in the availability of jobs post-grad.
“There are less entry level opportunities for young adults post grad. Internships are an option for some people but there isn’t a guarantee for a return offer. Of the entry level positions, most require a few years of experience in the field as well, it’s just more competitive. A college education isn’t nearly enough,” Caroline Forest ‘26, a double major in finance and government, said. “I’m not sure if this is due to macroeconomic factors or AI, likely a mix of both. We have a lot of skilled and intelligent college students graduating and it seems like there just aren’t enough jobs. A lot of people are returning home post-grad which is a shift compared to previous generations.”
Modern technology provides young adults with platforms such as LinkedIn and Handshake that help aid in the job search. However, such tools are required to cover a variety of fields that are hiring. Many employers at network events claim that the ability to network is a crucial component in the job search.
“Networking is important because you never know who might meet,” Curt McPhail ‘96, executive director of the Career Center, said, at the Terriers Behind the Brand networking event on Nov. 5. “It is also important to remember that your first job is simply a first job. It is simply a starting off point for where you want to go.”
Wofford College’s Career Center offers hand-on assistance in looking for internships, volunteer opportunities, and jobs post-grad. Their team looks over resumes and applications, hosts networking events, helps students prepare for interviews and provides resources that point students closer towards achieving their post-grad and professional goals. More information can be found at careercenter.wofford.edu.
