Diving into the complexities of today’s job market, we’re thrilled to speak with Marco Gaietti, a seasoned expert in Business Management with decades of experience in management consulting. Marco’s deep knowledge in strategic management, operations, and customer relations offers a unique perspective on the challenges new college graduates face in securing employment. In this interview, we explore the evolving dynamics of unemployment among recent grads, the surprising struggles in fields like STEM, and the broader economic shifts impacting career paths. Join us as we unpack these critical trends and gain insights into navigating the modern workforce.
Can you share your perspective on why recent college graduates are facing such a high unemployment rate compared to older graduates or even high school graduates?
Absolutely. I think there are a few layers to this. First, new graduates often lack the practical experience that employers value, and in today’s competitive market, that’s a significant barrier. Unlike older graduates who’ve had time to build networks and skills, or high school graduates who might take up more readily available roles, new grads are often caught in a middle ground—overqualified for some jobs but under-experienced for others. Additionally, the job market has shifted post-pandemic, with many industries tightening hiring or prioritizing candidates with proven track records. There’s also a mismatch between what’s taught in college and what employers need, leaving many grads unprepared for the realities of the workforce.
How do you think the job market for new graduates has changed since before the pandemic, and what’s driving those changes?
The job market has undergone a dramatic transformation since before the pandemic. Pre-2020, there was a clearer path for new grads—unemployment rates for them were volatile but often aligned closer to high school graduates, and opportunities felt more accessible. Post-pandemic, we’ve seen a sharper divide. Remote work, automation, and economic uncertainty have reshaped hiring priorities. Companies are more cautious, often opting for experienced workers who can hit the ground running. Plus, the gig economy and hybrid roles have changed expectations, and many new grads struggle to adapt to these less traditional career paths. It’s a tougher landscape now, no question.
Were you surprised to learn that even STEM majors, often seen as a safe bet, are facing high unemployment rates, and what might be behind this trend?
Honestly, I was a bit taken aback at first. STEM fields like physics and computer science have long been touted as guaranteed paths to employment, but the data showing unemployment rates as high as 7.8% for physics majors tells a different story. Part of this is oversaturation—there are more STEM graduates than there are specialized roles in some areas. Also, not all STEM jobs are created equal; some require very specific skills or advanced degrees that new grads might not have yet. And frankly, the rapid pace of tech change means that what students learn in school can become outdated by the time they graduate, leaving them playing catch-up.
With nearly half of college graduates taking first jobs unrelated to their major, how does this impact their perception of the value of their degree?
It’s a tough pill to swallow for many. When you’ve invested years and often significant money into a degree, landing a job outside your field can feel like a betrayal of that effort. I’ve seen this firsthand with peers and mentees who studied something specific like engineering or marketing, only to end up in unrelated roles like sales or admin work. It often leads to frustration and a sense of disillusionment about higher education. Some start questioning whether the degree was worth it, especially if they’re saddled with student debt. Over time, though, many find ways to pivot back toward their field, but that initial disconnect can be demoralizing.
Have you observed the trend of longer unemployment periods among new graduates, even without a recession, and what challenges do you think are contributing to this?
Yes, I’ve definitely noticed this trend, and it’s concerning. I know several young professionals who’ve been out of work for six months or more, and it’s not just about a lack of jobs. The application process itself has become a gauntlet—endless online forms, automated rejections, and ghosting from recruiters wear people down. There’s also a psychological toll; the longer someone is unemployed, the harder it is to maintain confidence or explain gaps in their resume. I think this trend ties into broader economic shifts, like slower hiring cycles and a growing emphasis on perfect-fit candidates, which leaves many new grads stuck in limbo.
Do you think colleges are doing enough to prepare students for the current job market, and if not, what could they improve?
In my view, colleges often fall short in bridging the gap between academia and the real world. While they provide theoretical knowledge, there’s not enough focus on practical skills like networking, resume building, or even understanding industry trends. Many students graduate without a clear sense of how to market themselves or adapt to employer needs. I’d like to see more programs incorporating internships, mentorships, and real-world projects into the curriculum. Also, career services need a serious upgrade—too often, they’re understaffed or outdated in their advice. Preparing students for the job market should be as core to education as the degree itself.
What’s your forecast for the job market for new college graduates over the next few years, and what should they be preparing for?
Looking ahead, I think the job market for new grads will remain challenging but not hopeless. We’re likely to see continued volatility as industries adapt to technological advances and economic uncertainties. Fields like tech and healthcare might offer more opportunities, but competition will be fierce, and adaptability will be key. My forecast is that hybrid skills—combining technical know-how with soft skills like communication and problem-solving—will become even more critical. Grads should prepare by upskilling through online courses, building strong online profiles, and seeking out internships or freelance gigs to gain experience. Staying flexible and open to roles outside their major might also be necessary to get a foot in the door.
