Can most US college graduates really not write effectively?

I've been hearing a lot lately about how many US college graduates can't write well. I enjoy writing and will be majoring in English, so this really concerns me. How much truth is there to this claim? If it is true, what do colleges need to do to address this issue?

Just as with any general assertion, the idea that "most US college graduates can't write well" can be somewhat subjective and largely depends on how one defines "writing well." It is important to note that the standard may vary across different fields, and criteria for excellent writing in a specific academic discipline may differ from that in a professional setting.

However, employers often identify effective written communication as a critical skill that they find lacking in many recent graduates. In the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook 2021 report, employers ranked "the ability to communicate with persons inside and outside the organization" as the most important attribute they seek on a candidate's resume. One could infer that some employers are not completely satisfied with the writing skills of recent college graduates.

Why this might be the case is a complicated issue. Factors could include changes in communication trends, such as a new reliance on short-form or informal written communication like social media and text messages. Furthermore, not all university degrees heavily emphasize writing, meaning some students might graduate without substantial practice.

To address this issue, colleges and universities may need to ensure that strong written communication is emphasized across all fields of study and not only in disciplines like English or Humanities. This could involve integrating more comprehensive writing coursework into all degree programs or providing writing workshops and resources accessible to all students, regardless of their major. Evaluating and providing direct feedback on students' writing skills throughout their university career could help them to further refine these skills before they transition into professional environments.

You, as an English major who enjoys writing, will likely develop strong writing skills through your coursework. To maximize this development, make sure to seek feedback from your professors and utilize any writing resources your college offers. This will not only prepare you for your future career but also help you to stand out in the job market, given the high demand for strong writing skills.