Post-graduation Employability

Stressing about life after college already here. Can anyone shed light on which colleges have the 'most wanted' graduates by employers? Are there specific degrees that make a difference?

When considering which universities produce the "most wanted" graduates, the key is to strike a balance between institutions that provide a comprehensive academic education, and those that offer ample opportunities for hands-on experiences, such as internships, co-ops, and research that align with your field of interest. These are normally indicators that can make a recent grad more attractive to potential employers.

For instance, many employers highly regard a degree from Ivy League and other selective schools like MIT, Stanford, Duke, and University of California (Berkeley), largely due to their rigorous academic programs, and reputable faculty.

However, degrees from reputable universities are not the sole criteria employers look at. Many large, public universities are known for having strong relationships with employers too. For instance, Penn State University, Purdue, and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign are known for having strong career services and alumni networks which can ease the job search process for graduates.

Colleges that offer co-op programs, where students alternate between periods of full-time professional work and academic courses, like Northeastern University, Drexel University, and University of Cincinnati also produce job-ready graduates. These programs provide students with practical experience and a chance to make industry connections before graduation.

As for specific degrees, STEM and Business fields generally tend to hold a strong position due to the high demand in the job market. However, having a degree in a specific field is only part of the equation. Graduates who can demonstrate problem-solving skills, leadership, communication, and other soft skills are also highly sought after, and these skills can be cultivated in any major.

Don't forget, the choice of a degree and institution should align with your interests and career aspirations. Pursuing a degree just because it's in demand doesn't necessarily lead to job satisfaction. Find a path that you’re passionate about, then work hard and gain relevant experiences, this is what will eventually shine through when you're applying for jobs.