Four years ago, the University of Arizona class of 2025 started their college journeys.

In two weeks, they will end that chapter. 

With graduation on the horizon, seniors must begin to prepare for life after school, including finding a job and embarking on life outside the structure of school.

Job Market Search

As graduating students prepare to leave college, many are looking for jobs, trying both to find a good fit and something that will pay their bills.

“Going through the job market right now as a new grad is slightly difficult,” said Chris Buterbaugh, a soon-to-be UA graduate who studied business management. “A lot of these entry-level jobs are looking for three to five years of experience, and that is hard to have when you’re a new grad.”

The transition from college to career requires support and resources, like mentors and professional connections, he said.

“So it’s hard, but we’re getting through it,” he said.

He said he is using resources like Handshake and LinkedIn to keep an eye out for potential positions.

Connections

Ashley Mill, a UA student graduating with a degree in interdisciplinary studies, believes connections are valuable in today’s workforce.

“I got pretty fortunate that I have a job lined up with a travel agency after graduation,” she said. “But I kind of stumbled onto that through a connection.” 

She wants to work in the travel industry, and with the help of a family friend who previously worked at the agency, she has a leg up on her future career, she said.

Mill said she recognizes that the job market does not work like that for everyone. Some struggle to find jobs in the fields they studied for, or lack the family and social networks that have given her an advantage. 

Positives and Negatives

But leaving school means more than just finding a job – it’s also a major life transition.

“Life after graduation brings a mix of exciting opportunities and new challenges,” said Lena Peliggi, a UA student graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Communication. “There is a sense of accomplishment and independence, [more] freedom to make my own decisions.”

She said she is excited to meet new people and develop her “personal and professional identity.” 

As a communications major, she hopes to find a career in marketing. But she’s also nervous about some aspects of leaving college.

“Life after graduation can feel overwhelming,” she said. “I might face uncertainty, pressure to succeed and sometimes disappointment if things don’t go as planned.”

Students can lean on their mentors and rely on their experiences in college and their field to remain confident and ease stress during trying times.

Buterbaugh said he tries to keep a positive outlook and not become discouraged by the process, believing that one day a great fit will come to him.

Graduating seniors will walk at the commencement ceremony on Friday, May 16 at Arizona Stadium.