The last two SJSU job fairs in April sold out with approximately 100 employers in attendance and 1,100 students and alumni. All four job fairs this year sold out, bringing the sell-out streak to a total of four consecutive semesters (Christina Olivas photo).
By Daniel Newell, SJSU Career Center, 408-924-6028
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Quarter three of the fiscal year ended on a high note for job opportunities for Spartans, with growth in openings across the board year to date.
Since the start of the quarter, the national unemployment rate dropped from 7.9 percent to 7.6 percent; California’s unemployment rate dropped from 9.8 percent to 9.4 percent; and Santa Clara County’s unemployment rate dropped from 8 percent in January to 7.4 percent in February. Job availability for SJSU students and graduates mirror the same upward trend.
Although there was a decline in internship openings posted at the Career Center in the third quarter, overall there has been a nine percent increase, totaling greater than 300 internships in comparison to the same time last year. The SJSU Career Center registered 1,745 new employers to recruit SJSU talent, a 23 percent increase.
Moreover, the last two SJSU job fairs in April sold out with approximately 100 employers in attendance and 1,100 students and alumni. All four job fairs this year sold out, bringing the sell-out streak to a total of four consecutive semesters.
Employers must register earlier each year to ensure a spot at recruitment events and the SJSU Career Center is noticing employers like Cisco Systems sending greater numbers of representatives to attract and recruit SJSU students and alumni.
Although the job statistics are positive, students are reminded that unemployment is still generally high and the job market is competitive. Early preparation can increase success. Students are encouraged to utilize the SJSU Career Center’s website to prepare for employment and group drop-in hours and for faster service.
Spartan recruitment is on the rise and the data shows that SJSU talent continues to provide businesses with a competitive edge. Despite the economic downturn, competition for SJSU students and alumni is hot!