WASHINGTON — The long economic downturn that began in 2008 has made it tough for recent college graduates to find jobs. But this year’s graduating class can expect to find the job hunt a little easier.
“A lot of my peers have been able to find jobs, but there are people who are still looking,” says Philip Tam of Fairfax, Va., who is graduating from Georgetown University. “I would say that the general mood is one of optimism.”
Tam has a job waiting for him after graduation in May.
“I’m a marketing and international business double major in the business school and it feeds into my marketing side,” Tam says.
“It’s bittersweet to graduate but it’s going to be a great experience to venture forth.”
The Washington Times reports the unemployment rate for 15- to 25-year-old job seekers has fallen by a third from its recession peak.
Kelly Pugh, who also is graduating from Georgetown next month, has a job lined up at the Reston Hospital Center.
“A lot of my friends do have jobs after graduation. There are a couple of people who don’t, but I think it’s pretty easy if you look in the right places,” Pugh says.
A Challenger, Gray & Christmas survey found a growing number of employers say they have plans to hire college graduates this year.
College internships can apparently also pay off when it comes time to nail down a paying job. Genevieve Svec, a finance major, will work full-time after graduation as an assistant buyer at Bloomingdale’s.
“I was offered the job in August
