Seniors search for work

Stephanie Damon-Moore Assistant Life Editor

As graduation approaches, the Class of 2008 has more to worry about than finishing theses and saying goodbye to friends. The daunting task of finding a job to fill the academic void may be more difficult than usual this year as the economy continues to decline.

But while job searches may yield underwhelming results, the general consensus is that the Class of 2008 will not spend the rest of their lives sleeping on park benches. Chris Jacques ’08, for example, hasn’t nailed down a job for next year, but he doesn’t view the economic decline as a threat to his well-being. “It’s easy to find a job in general. I just hope I can find something that I want to do,” said Jacques.

Ben Demers ’08 is also optimistic. “I’m pretty confident,” he said. “I know that the economy is depressed and that is scaring a lot of people, but I’m not limiting myself to any certain field right away, and I know that eventually the economy will pick up.”

Demers cited his experience marketing for various groups at Vassar as valuable in his search for radio jobs. “Especially with new media, every organization is trying to get digital and up their image and reach out to a new, media-savvy generation.”

On the other hand, seniors like Natalia Luna feel less prepared to enter the professional sphere. “I am kind of nervous about my financial prospects,” Luna said. “I’m an anthropology major—in some ways it’s harder because I don’t have a clear focus.”

Employer Relations Coordinator and Job Coach in the Career Development Office (CDO) Susan Smith has been working with seniors all year, and more come in for assistance every day. “Now I’m starting to hear the outcome of those successful stories where students have landed a job,” Smith said. “Conversely, I’ve been starting to see students who I’ve been working with all year, and who don’t have a job yet. And then there are the seniors who are just beginning the process.”

Smith wouldn’t describe the Class 2008’s outlook as worried, but said that they have seen some frustration building throughout the year. “I think some are discouraged because they’ve interviewed a lot, and they don’t have something yet. A job search really is a long process,” she said. She suggested that students use advantages such as family

connections or Vassar alumnae/i. “Any way possible that you can get a foot in the door.”
She also stressed that it’s not too late for students to come to the CDO for help. “

Don’t think that there aren’t jobs out there because it’s April.” she said, “I get postings everyday. We welcome any senior, no matter where in the process you are.”

The CDO offers a large range of services for students, including help with résumés and cover letters, practice interviews and graduate school applications. The career counselors are available by appointment every weekday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on a walk-in basis every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1-4 p.m. and Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-8 p.m.