How do employers rank most important college learning outcomes?

Okay, guys... bit stressed out here. I'm trying to pick a major, but I also want to know how employers view the importance of specific college learning outcomes. Like, are they all about GPA, or is it more about skills and experiences? What do they really value?

It's important not to let stress get the better of you! When we look at what employers consider important from a college graduate, there are a number of things at play. For one, the relevant skills you acquire during your studies hold immense value. Employers do want to see that you have the skills necessary to perform the job and that could be your expertise in a certain technology, problem-solving skills, communication or leadership ability. Often, these skills can be built through different experiences, such as internships, part-time jobs, or leadership roles in clubs and organizations.

Additionally, employers often value experiences like internships and co-ops, which not only provide hands-on experience in a work setting, but also demonstrate initiative and practical understanding of the industry. In fact, in some fields like engineering or computing, internships or similar experiences can often be a deciding factor in hiring decisions.

While GPA does matter to some extent, it's not the be-all and end-all. A high GPA could indicate hard work, consistency, and understanding of subject matter. But keep in mind that for most employers, a baseline GPA might be looked at (often to make sure it's over a certain threshold), but beyond that, they're interested in what abilities and experiences you bring to the table.

Lastly, employers appreciate individuals who demonstrate "soft skills," which could include things like effective communication, teamwork, and the ability to adapt. Even things like ethical judgement and decision-making skills are high on their priority list. Many of these skills are ones that could be developed outside of your academic work, and are integral in maintaining a positive work environment.

What it boils down to is this: While your performance in your academic work does matter, employers place a high value on the real-world applications of your education - the experiences you've had and the skills, whether technical or soft, you've developed along the way. Your adaptability, communication, critical thinking, and leadership are largely what will set you apart. So, when you're considering your major, think about how it will help you develop these skills and seize opportunities that come your way to gain practical experience.