For decades, a college degree has been the most reliable indicator of a potential hire’s job worthiness for employers.

Today, employers question whether a typical college degree equips students with the soft skills needed in the workplace—problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork.

We asked graduating students within the University of Guam, to share their opinions on the struggles of seeking employment opportunities.

Many undergraduates are beginning their transition from youth dependence to adult independence—and for the vast majority, this involves finding work to help them stay afloat. 

Has the university equipped them well enough to comfortably seek and secure employment?

“With both the junior and senior internship courses I have taken, I have been able to network with many different people from various fields of work. Therefore, I definitely think UOG has prepared me for the next chapter of my life in finding a career,” said Brandon Phillippe Cruz, a communication major at the university.

This is not the case for everyone. Mikaylla Nicole M. Alcairo, a psychology and communication major at the University of Guam, shares her perspective.

“To find a job, I would say that UOG has equipped me well enough, but I feel that if I apply for a job I would not be the best candidate,” said Alcairo. “I think that a lot of times employers rely on experience and I feel like I am somewhat lacking,” said Alcairo.

Competitiveness in a student’s major can hinder a potential undergraduate’s opportunity to attain a position once they graduate.

“I believe my major is competitive to a degree when looking at essential roles in society,” said Breanah Francisco, a communication Major at the University of Guam.  

“There are many employers and organizations that rely heavily on communication which affects every aspect of our lives,” continued Francisco.

Nathaniel Dulla, a communication major, under the public relations track, shares how he feels about competition within a major.

“I feel like because of these different routes students could take in their career in the future, there is competition. But I would say that there is always going to be competition in any field of work you want to get into,” said Dulla.

To get a head start in seeking employment opportunities, these students shared tools and resources that they use for networking and job searching.

“I use job websites like USAjobs.com and indeed.com to look for jobs. They have great features that can help individuals create a resume and offer assessments that they can put on their resume. I also have a LinkedIn account so that helps me to network as well,” recommended Alcairo.

While most recommend the use of social media applications, Cruz shares a different approach.

“The skills of public speaking and human interaction are just a few things I have developed over time throughout the courses I have taken within my program,” mentioned Cruz. “I find myself more comfortable speaking to and in front of people in a much more confident approach.”

Fighting through the last few weeks of the semester, these undergraduates share the same tenacity to finish the semester strong and look forward to graduating in May 2023.