Class of 2010 - by Monica

My graduation date is coming up in June. Only three more months until I’m thrust out into the real world to find a job to support myself with. And, although I’m excited to be done with what I’ve spent my life doing since I was 5 years old, it’s also scary to leave the only world I have ever known – school. But, even in this economy, I decided that I need to start focusing on the good instead of the bad. This is the time where we will define ourselves and shoot towards the dreams we have been preparing for during these past four years and maybe, for our whole lives. For example, my friend, who just graduated in December, just got a job for HP (yes, the computer company). And that gave me hope that, even in these economic times, the possibilities for our generation are still endless. There’s so much we can do in this big world and, for the class of 2010, we will be let out of the cages of school this year to make these decisions for ourselves. Yes, it is strange to say, but we are officially adults now. Let’s shape our lives the way we want them to be – down to the color of paint on our living room walls.

Here is an article I found on College Grad by writer Melissa Bullard about job search tips for recent graduates which I think could help those who have just graduated or about to graduate keep their heads up and not to keep thinking the worst:

If you're a recent college graduate, the current economic situation and news about rising unemployment may have you concerned about getting a job, particularly if you've already searched and come up short. Don't panic. There are a few tactics that can make your resume stand out, improve your chances of getting one of those fantastic entry-level jobs, and give you something worthwhile to do with your time.

1. Keep a Positive Attitude
According to the Wall Street Journal, the unemployment rate in April among those with only high school diplomas was about three times that of college graduates the same age. Even if job opportunities aren't abounding at the moment, you've still got an edge over those without a degree. Many companies are still hiring; it's just a matter of matching your particular skills to those most needed by employers. Eventually, waiting longer means you may appreciate the job you get even more.

2. Consider Rewiring Your Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Think outside the box: just because you graduated with a degree in math doesn't mean you have to teach math or work in finance. People have used elementary education degrees as a step toward social work. What sub-skills, extra training, and uncommon volunteer experience do you have? You may have the necessary skills to get your dream job, but no employer knows that unless you pull them out from hiding under your degree and job titles and make them explicit in your resume. What happened when you helped out at the food bank? Did the administration go wireless? Did efficiency increase? Were you key in recruitment of new volunteers? Now may be a good time to revise your resume or CV, highlighting volunteer experience and remembering to focus not just on tasks, but also on results.

3. Prepare Yourself As Best As Possible
Take advantage of tools and advice that can help you in your job search. Many career fairs offer networking opportunities, and some offer free resume consultation. If the school where you graduated offers career counseling or mock interviews, take advantage of these resources to hone your interviewing skills and find new fields that match your coursework. College preparation Web sites such as CollegeGrad.com can give you resume, interviewing, and job search tips.
In the meantime, see what is missing from your education or experience. Some jobs require a particular skill or knowledge set that you might not have. If you are unable to find employment, take advantage of the extra time to take classes, earn a particular certification, or even go to graduate school. If you think you may eventually need a master's degree to get ahead in your career and you're having trouble finding a job now, why not consider starting the master's degree now, or at least taking some graduate courses?

4. Keep Looking
Don't give up the search. CollegeGrad.com and dozens of other career Web sites post new job ads every day. Finding employment can be like a full-time job, but harder you work at it, the better your chances are of stumbling upon your dream career. Good luck!