For generations young Americans have been told to earn a degree and land steady work. Yet many now face a difficult job market. Meghan Obetz from Philadelphia noted that expectations of an easy transition after graduation often do not match reality.

Obetz along with Olivia Bennett in New York, Michael Sundheim in Minneapolis and Daniel Fischer in Anchorage have sent out hundreds of applications with little success. They describe resumes disappearing into automated systems where AI handles initial screening. Fischer mentioned one role drew three hundred applicants while Bennett pointed out the lack of any response even a polite rejection.

Sundheim said the process leaves applicants feeling defeated. Fischer added that the absence of human contact makes the experience seem like an odd experiment testing how many submissions it takes before applicants give up.

Measures of uncertainty

Their experiences reflect broader trends. Youth unemployment sits near twice the national rate and forty percent of employed college graduates hold roles that do not require a degree. Columbia Business School professor Laura Veldkamp explained that first time job seekers face the toughest conditions in years.

AI plays a small part in the overall picture increasing unemployment by roughly one tenth of one percent according to research. The larger issue is economic uncertainty that causes employers to pause hiring. Factors include questions around AI impact fluctuating tariffs and sharp swings in fuel prices that raise business costs.

Veldkamp noted that uncertainty leads companies to avoid new hires especially entry level positions often filled by young workers. High applicant volume also keeps wages lower for those who do secure roles.

Play the long game

Some sectors show promise. Hilton chief human resources officer Laura Fuentes highlighted demand in healthcare energy AI and hospitality. She urged new graduates to stay patient expand their search and view the first role as a starting point rather than a final identity.

Fuentes advised loosening expectations around exact titles or pay and warned against mass applications. Instead she recommended using personal networks including professors family friends and past contacts to find openings. Studies confirm most positions are filled through such connections.

Bennett and Sundheim eventually found roles through personal contacts rather than job boards. Bennett took a position in digital marketing and events after studying international relations. Obetz continues seeking work in music or marketing while Fischer looks for opportunities in law or advocacy.

Fuentes sees signs of improvement with more entry level postings appearing. For Fischer any recovery cannot arrive soon enough as he hopes to move forward with his career and independent life.