GREENSBORO, N.C. — Today, we're tackling a topic close to many parents' hearts: what to do when your college graduate won't find a job in their field. Let's face it: parents invest a lot in their children's education. So, when that dream job in their major seems out of reach, it can be a huge blow.
It's a normal reaction for parents to feel disappointed, even frustrated, when their new college graduate isn't trying to get a job in their major. The key is to find out the reasons their college grad is hesitant. With the high cost of college, some parents might feel like they wasted money on a degree that isn't used.
That's a very real concern that some grads aren't applying to jobs in their majors because the pay or location isn't ideal. Sometimes, their passions don't offer the financial security or geographic flexibility they desire.
Here are some things to talk to your college grad to find out why they're not applying to jobs in their field. Explore "why" they're not applying. Explore alternatives within their major together that offer better pay or location options. You can also help them identify what truly matters in a job: passion, work-life balance, or financial security. Additionally, you can talk about compromise, such as starting within their major, even if it's not perfect, so that they can build skills and experience that open doors to their ideal job later.
It can be smart if college graduates take a step back while figuring out what they want to do, even if it means taking a job as a bartender or babysitter. It allows them time to explore interests, gain valuable work experience, and save money for further education or travel.
If you, as a parent, feel this is a sign of aimlessness or a waste of their degree. It's important for parents to see the value in these jobs. They develop transferable skills – communication, time management, and teamwork – applicable to future careers. If your college grad has a full-time job covering their expenses while figuring things out, this shows drive and commitment.
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