Jobless Woes Change Campus Trend
By Jane Han
Staff Reporter
As local four-year college graduates are being haunted by another 20 percent leap in the unemployment rate this year, new customs and trends reflecting their struggle are becoming ordinary.
Of these changes, online recruiter Career highlights a new school credit system ― which was once done secretly ― as a widespread practice that most colleges and universities now commonly implement, with a little more leniency.
The original rule allows undergraduate students, who have already landed jobs, to receive credit for classes they have registered for even if they are no shows.
However, more and more time-crunched students are misusing the system by submitting this form of registration ― even if they have not been employed ― and instead, are using the extra time to apply for jobs and attend interviews.
Although a majority of school administrations is aware of this, the privilege is still given away as they know how pressing the job search is for graduating seniors.
Also universities are offering more practical courses that students can directly use toward their job seeking process, said Career.
Some of the most popular classes are those that sharpen skills in PowerPoint presentations, debates and writing.
Another rising trend that the recruiter exemplifies is the ``Loner Crowd'' that defines the growing number of individuals who are spotted alone.
Whether it be reading at a coffee shop, shopping or eating, it says the busy 20-somethings aren't afraid to be seen solo, and most of the time, they actually prefer it this way.
``Because everyone is busy and it's hard to arrange time with others, people find it more convenient doing things on their own,'' said Career spokeswoman Shin Kil-ja, adding that when these busybodies do gather, they make sure that time is used wisely.
While study groups typically encompassed schoolwork, more are using these get-togethers for mock job interviews.
``Today's interviews call for more than academic answers, as many employers require wit and creativity from potential employees,'' said Shin, explaining that job seekers need a critical audience to practice their show-n-tell, singing and other talents in front of.
The online recruit specialist also highlights the growing number of breakups among campus couples seeking more personal time and insomniac seniors who spend nights preparing and sending resumes as another noticeably expanding trend.