By Melody Bailiff

Graduating from college is only the first step to success. Recent graduates are learning that lesson the hard way.

The unemployment rate for college graduates between ages 23 to 27 jumped from 3 percent in 2007 to 3.7 percent in 2008.  This year’s rate stands at 6 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

UK Career Fair Coordinator, Francene Gilmer said there was a 30 percent decrease in the number of employers that came to the fair on Wednesday and Thursday. Gilmer said a decrease may not effect students negatively.

“While the numbers may have been smaller, students had a greater chance of meeting companies that were hiring — some companies used to come just to get their name out,” Gilmer said.  “Now, because of budget cuts, employers that may have come from the Northeast in the past may just be recruiting in their region.”

However, fewer employers still means fewer jobs. The limited positions available make the job market more competitive, while employers are now expecting certain criteria from college graduates. Employers at the James W. Stuckert Career Center gave students tips to get started in the post-college life:

1. Networking should start as soon as a student enters college.

Beverly Clemons, owner of CMI Consulting, said students can start networking by using the six degrees of separation.

“You know your neighbor who knows someone who knows someone who works in the field you want to go into,” Clemons said.

She also said students need to meet people who can help them get ahead in their field. A place to start would be the UK Alumni Career Network available through Wildcat CareerLink.

2. Get an internship.

At the Career Fair on Wednesday, most employers said internships and communication skills would put a candidate ahead of another for a job.

The career center will be holding an internship information session Friday at noon in room 203.

3. Choose the right

major.

“A major reveals what a student’s aspirations are … and employers need to know what your career goals are,” Clemons said.

Researching majors and seeing what careers can be done with them is the first step. Today, the computer science, medical and engineering fields are the three most needed majors and most helpful for graduates entering the current job market.

4. Build a strong

resume.

The career center offers help with writing resumes and cover letters. UK students can upload their resumes on Wildcat CareerLink for submission to employers.

5. Start interviewing for post-grad jobs six months before graduation.

Gilmer said students need to take the first impressions they make on employers seriously.

“Men who came to the career fair in suits and young women who were dressed appropriately made a lasting impression on employers compared to students who just dropped in,” Gilmer said. “(Students should) explain to employers who (they) are, what skills (they) have and what position (they) want in 30 seconds or less.”