Job market outlook as TXST grads enter the workforce

By Ashley Waters

News Reporter

SAN MARCOS — As Texas State seniors prepare to cross the stage this month, many are also stepping into a job market still recovering from recent economic shifts. While national unemployment remains low, the journey to securing a first post-grad position remains a challenge — and a test of resilience and resourcefulness.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate stood at 3.8% in March 2024, reflecting a stable labor market. However, a report from Handshake, a career platform widely used by college students, shows that entry-level job postings in early 2024 declined by 8% compared to the previous year. This shift underscores the importance of a proactive job search strategy for soon-to-be graduates.

Daniel Seed, a Texas State journalism professor and former television reporter, emphasized that persistence is essential.

“The most important advice that I can give students entering the job market now is the same advice that I give them every semester: apply for as many jobs as possible,” Seed said. “Casting a wide net gives you more options and good practice with interviewing. The more jobs you interview for, the better you become.”

Seed acknowledged that many students focus on landing a “dream job” but encouraged graduates to remain open to opportunities — even those outside their preferred locations or fields.

“Don’t limit yourself to Austin, San Antonio and Dallas. Don’t limit yourself just to Texas,” Seed said. “There are so many entry-level journalism jobs across the country. It helps you grow personally and professionally when you get out of your bubble.”

Seed added that employers prioritize experience over academic performance, particularly in journalism.

“It’s about what you’ve done — have you worked at KTSW? Have you worked at The University Star? Have you had internships?” Seed said. “What employers are looking for is: on day one, can I throw you into the fire and trust that you’re going to do a good job?”

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average starting salary for the Class of 2023 was $58,862 — a slight increase from the previous year. Still, many employers continue to place a strong emphasis on real-world experience and adaptability.

Ross Wood, associate director of Texas State’s Career Services, said the university offers ongoing support for alumni.

“Once a Bobcat, always a Bobcat,” Wood said. “Our services do not go away, even after students graduate.”

Career Services provides resume reviews, cover letter critiques, mock interviews, LinkedIn guidance and professional headshots — available both in person and virtually. Graduates are also encouraged to complete the university’s First Destination Survey, which tracks job outcomes, graduate school enrollment and military enlistment.

Although current data for the spring 2024 graduating class won’t be available until later this year, Wood said previous surveys show consistent post-graduation success.

“Our employers want to hire Texas State students,” Wood said. “A lot of the recruiters are fellow Bobcats themselves. It’s that circle of life — coming back and hiring fellow Bobcats.”

Seed reiterated the importance of perseverance and urged students not to feel discouraged if they do not have a job offer by graduation.

“Take a breath,” he said. “When I graduated college in May 2004, I didn’t get my first real job until that fall. It can be stressful, but patience is key.”

For students still completing their degrees, Seed said there is still time to build a stronger resume.

“If you look at your resume and think, ‘I don’t have a lot of extracurriculars,’ you still have time,” Seed said. “Employers appreciate students who can balance school, work and other responsibilities. It shows you can handle pressure — and journalism is pressure every single day.”

As the job market continues to shift with economic conditions and industry trends, Texas State graduates are reminded that their career paths may not follow a straight line, but the resources and connections they’ve gained in San Marcos remain available to support their next steps.