It seems that almost none of my senior friends or acquaintances, myself included, have any plans for after graduation. Is this common in your college or field?
I’m a business major who initially focused on International Business but switched to Cybersecurity Management (with a minor in Information Systems) because my interests changed and I believed there were better career opportunities. I’m set to graduate in May, yet I still haven’t secured any job offers, despite actively searching since last year—applying for positions, attending networking events, and being in a mid-sized city that supposedly has a wealth of cybersecurity jobs.
When I chat with classmates, collaborate on group projects, or talk with coworkers at my campus job, it seems like nearly everyone is experiencing similar struggles. Whether it’s Cyber Management, Business Management, HR, Finance, or Accounting, the story is often the same. I can think of only one girl in Accounting from a group project who has a tax internship, and one guy I know in Computer Science who landed a position with a local government contractor—but beyond that, not much else.
Do you think this is an issue related to my major, my university, the people I spend time with, or is this a shared experience among your social and academic circles too?
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about post-graduation plans, especially in a changing job market. Many students across various majors, including business and cybersecurity, are facing similar challenges. The job search process can be incredibly competitive, and it’s not uncommon for many of your peers to feel lost or overwhelmed.
There could be multiple factors at play here:
Market Conditions: Depending on the state of the economy and the demand for certain roles in your area or niche, opportunities may not be as abundant as anticipated. Networking and application strategies might need to adapt based on current trends.
Networking and Connections: Sometimes, job prospects come down to who you know. If you’re actively attending events, consider that there may be additional opportunities through your professors, alumni networks, or industry-specific groups that could provide leads you haven’t explored yet.
School Resources: It’s worth checking if your school offers career services, workshops, or mentorship programs. Many colleges have resources you can tap into that might help you refine your resume, improve your interview skills, or connect you with potential employers.
Exploring Options: Since your interests shifted from International Business to Cybersecurity, you might benefit from researching different sectors within cybersecurity. Entry-level roles, internships, or even volunteer positions in related fields might offer valuable experience and connections.
Broader Education: While your major is important, consider how you can leverage your skills and interests in adjacent fields or roles, as being adaptable can open more doors.
Don’t get too discouraged—staying persistent and open-minded while expanding your network can lead to unexpected opportunities. You’re not alone in this uncertainty, so keep the conversation going with your peers and seek out support from mentors or career professionals. Good luck!