The countdown has been set. With seven months until graduation, many seniors are scrambling to decide whether they will continue their studies in graduate school or enter the real world.
Ed Reis ’06 has decided to go into the workforce, a decision most Fairfield University graduates opt for.
“I was influenced by companies I have spoken with who want to train grads personally versus a graduate school training,” said Reis.
Currently, Fairfield students tend to go directly into the workforce after graduation, with only approximately 20 percent opting for graduate school, according to Phyllis Fitzpatrick, director of Management Information. Events such as last Thursday’s Career Fair, sponsored by Career Planning, are designed to help seniors make final decisions for their post-graduate careers. Many students found the Career Fair to be useful.
“It was a great opportunity to meet with potential employers and get your resume out there,” said Sarah Leonard ’06.
Bo Belanger ’06, who has decided to go into the workforce by his parents’ recommendation, said the Career Fair was a great place to meet people.
“Typically seniors do look for employment or graduate school options,” said Dennis Amrine, interim director of the Career Placement Center. “Some will travel in the summer before they embark on their job.”
Amrine added that over 81 percent of the class of 2004 secured full time employment or admission to graduate degree programs.
“Many things factor into seniors’ decision-making, but primarily internships, study abroad experiences and the influence of parents, professors and courses are key,” said Amrine.
Valerie Montinat ’06 plans to work while attending graduate school.
“I think what I want more than anything is to get some sort of experience in the very competitive job market,” said Montinat. “School tends to isolate and shelter us from the rest of the world. I would like to find some sort of balance between the two.”
The primary fears of seniors upon graduating include leaving friends, entering the real world, and not getting the job they want. However, most students are optimistic about their future.
“I see myself in Hartford or Boston, working in actuary,” said Reis. “There are a lot of opportunities for math majors, especially in actuary work. Experience early means getting paid right away.”
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