Called, not just hired: navigating the job market with faith
Elisa Wells, Staff Writer
Photo Courtest of Jesael Melgoza on Unsplash
Seniors preparing to graduate often experience a mix of excitement and uncertainty when they step into their new phase in life. While earning a degree is an accomplishment, the transition from college to career can feel overwhelming. With the current job market rate of slower hiring, more competition and industries constantly shifting, many graduates are faced with the next biggest challenge: finding not just a job, but a meaningful career.
According to the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth has been inconsistent and varies from month to month. Additionally, job opportunities are not evenly spread within growing industries. Industries such as healthcare, construction, and transportation/warehousing are seeing growth, while others remain stagnant.
On top of that, companies are in a “low hire, low fire” environment. In other words, companies are not hiring aggressively, but on the flip side, they are not laying off large numbers of employees. Overall, students must be prepared for a competitive and evolving workforce.
Alli Phipps, senior health science major, said, ”I know a lot of fellow seniors that are thinking about jobs for the summer, and the next steps for the fall, and, yeah, it’s a big stressor, because when you’re in college, the next year you’re coming back, but now there’s nothing planned out for you next, and it’s exciting, because everything’s so open for you, but that also is a lot of pressure to decide.”
For Christian students, the job search carries a deeper meaning. Understanding the foundation of why work is important can change the mindset graduates have when job searching. Firstly, Colossians 3:23 reminds believers to work for the lord and Matthew 6:33 encourage Christians to trust in God’s provision.
In times of waiting or uncertainty, students can be reminded that God’s calling may look different than expected and no period of waiting is wasted.
Kinsey Thomas, senior intercultural studies major, said, “I think that NGU has prepared me very well, especially for my long-term career on the mission field, but for my short-term job, I have no idea what I will do. The intercultural studies program is very good, and I’ve learned a lot. I’ve taken a lot of different classes that have covered a lot of different aspects of the field ministry that I’ll be in, and I just feel like I’ve been taught well.”
Additionally, practical preparation is essential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights the importance of experience. Internships, jobs, apprenticeships, and other opportunities help students gain experience, develop skills and build professional connections before entering the workforce. Complimenting your academic work with multiple experiences outside the classroom can also help with career preparation.
