Temple’s Class of 2021 is now the second graduating class to enter the job market during the Covid-19 pandemic. For many seniors, the pandemic has presented unique challenges in securing post graduate work.
All of Temple’s most popular career fairs and networking events are now taking place virtually. Students are able to register for these events through the Handshake and select specific time slots to meet with employers. Despite events being held online, some seniors still feel like they are missing out on vital opportunities to establish connections with potential employers.
Mitchell Freeby, a senior environmental science major says, “With everything being online, though, there’s been a huge disconnect there. For me, anyway, there hasn’t been that personal connection.”
As the current job market remains uncertain in many industries, some students are checking job sites daily and spending several hours a day filling out applications.
Hafeezat Bishi, a senior communication and social influence major says, “They (seniors) will apply anywhere and everywhere within reason and some people apply to upwards of 200 places.” Bishi has completed over 60 applications herself and plans to fill out many more in the coming weeks.
According to the Temple Career Services Office, certain industries have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic more than others. As a result of this, some seniors across all colleges are having to adjust some of their goals based on what jobs are available right now.
Executive Director of the Career Services Center, Kristen Gallo, says the hospitality industry has been severely impacted by the pandemic, making it a difficult job market for graduates. The medical and technology industries, however, are still thriving and continuing to hire people.
Luckily for seniors who are actively job hunting, Temple has recently received promising news from the National Association for Colleges and Employers. Gallo shares, “NACE…which is an organization that we belong to and follow very closely, just projected a 7% increase in hiring.” The Career Services Office does not yet know how this hiring increase will affect different industries, but intends on researching this further.
Many Temple seniors are remaining optimistic that more jobs will emerge as the Covid-19 vaccine roll out continues and public health restrictions lessen. The Temple Career Services is open to Temple students even after they graduate and will remain a resource for those who are looking for assistance in the job hunting process.
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