Survey: Grads find jobs
MSUM students are finding success after graduation. A survey released by the university for the 2010-11 graduating class reveals that Dragon alumni are going on to find careers in their field and furthering their education.
Of the 1,503 graduates, 1,290 were available for evaluation. The survey found that 857 are employed full or part time in fields relating to their degree. Additionally, 79 graduates are employed in fields unrelated to their degrees.
The survey also showed that graduates are staying in the area. The top ten companies by number of graduates hired are all in Fargo, Moorhead and surrounding communities. These employers include Sanford Health, US Bank and Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo public schools.
“The economic climate in Fargo-Moorhead is very positive,” said Sarah Miller, director of MSUM’s Career Development Center.Commenting on the trend. She added that our area is “very rich in opportunity” for new grads.
Additionally, 243 graduates reported they were continuing their education. MSUM led the way in number of students pursuing graduate degrees with 83. North Dakota State University, University of North Dakota, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and University of Mary rounded out the top five.
No respondents to the survey were reported as available for work but unemployed, but 111 grads reported they were unemployed but not available for employment.
The remaining 213 students were listed as status unknown.
For current students looking ahead, the Career Development Center, located in Flora Frick 151, can be used as an excellent resource for job searches, help with resumes and interviewing.
“We want to see students come in early,” Miller said. The fall of senior year is the time frame she recommends for post-grad job placement, adding, “The sooner the better.”
Walk-in appointments with trained student advisors are available in the office, as well as scheduled appointments with staff.
More information and a link to the DragonJobs page, which features full and part-time employment as well as internships, can be found on the Career Development Center’s page on the MSUM website.
BY KRISTIN MILLER
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