Graduation is quickly approaching, and many of Roanoke College’s students are planning their post-grad life and job applications. However, economists warn that 2026 college graduates will face the toughest job market the country has seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. 42% of recent college graduates are currently classified as underemployed, according to Forbes. The healthcare, education, and engineering industries have the lowest underemployment rates, while fine arts, leisure and hospitality, and agriculture all have underemployment rates above 50%.
A high underemployment rate for a college major does not mean that over 50% of graduates in the major are unemployed; the underemployment rate measures the percentage of people who are “mis-matched” with their degree and their job. In fact, as of summer 2025, 52% of recent college graduates are employed in jobs that do not even require college degrees, according to the Federal Reserve. These jobs often underpay their employees, meaning that graduates cannot pay for housing and loans. In addition, starting a non-degree job as a recent college graduate can make it more difficult to advance to a more professional career.
So, why is the job market for college graduates so bad right now? It will not come as a surprise, but Artificial Intelligence and automation play a huge role in removing entry-level, professional jobs from the market. Even for industries like finance, computer science, and data analytics, the entry-level jobs that a typical college graduate would work have been replaced by Artificial Intelligence. A recent MIT study in November 2025 found that Artificial Intelligence technology can easily replace 11.7% of the labor market.
Although many soon-to-be college graduates will have trouble finding a job after graduation, there are some things to consider to help combat this shifting labor market. For example, instead of listing only degrees and credentials on a resume, consider listing skills, such as internships or hands-on experience. Listing experiences and skills showcase unique abilities instead of a major in a degree.
Also, when competing with Artificial Intelligence for a job, it is important to highlight unique human abilities that AI cannot replace. It is difficult for AI to possess empathy, leadership qualities, and critical thinking skills. During an interview, it might be beneficial to highlight those abilities and showcase creative endeavors.
The number one skill that employers are looking for in job applicants right now is artificial intelligence literacy, training, and fluency, according to CBS News. A need for AI literacy reflects the shift to skill-based hiring in the current labor market. Although AI training programs are available to take online or in-person. Employers are impressed when applicants are familiar with the day-to-day AI use for things like brainstorming, drafting, and coding. A good job candidate will convey that they know how to use AI to make work tasks more efficient and productive.
As for right now, the best thing for college students to do to prepare to enter this suffering labor market is to do four things: gain internship experience, make connections, build a personal brand, and develop diverse skills. Roanoke College students also have access to the on-campus career center, PLACE, where they can make connections, plan careers, and receive one-on-one advising. In a labor market that does not favor college graduates, students need to act early and take advantage of the personalized support that a small college can provide before entering the workforce.
Madeline Wall
Staff Reporter
