SAN JOSE -- New data released Thursday by the payroll and benefits company Gusto forecasts job growth will drop 25 percent this year compared to last year among new college graduates in the 20-24 age range.
The class of 2023 will enter the jobs market amid an economy undergoing profound shifts after a time of growth and plenty of opportunity for their peers who graduated just a year ago. Those living in San Jose and the South Bay have felt the impact of layoffs in the tech industry. Pardue said that several industries show improved opportunities: retail, food and beverage, health care and education.
"Ever since I came to the college, I wanted to stay in the Bay Area. I grew up in the Bay Area, I wanted to stay in the Bay Area and I'm very much aware of the cost of living here. It's extremely expensive," said Christine Mok, a communications major at Santa Clara University.
Mok said she does have some options to consider, thanks to her internships and research before her final term in college. Other students say an early approach has been crucial as they prepare to graduate this year.