Gen Z has already shown adaptability, overcoming employment hurdle after hurdle. Yet uncertainty reigns when it comes to the jobs they need to secure their future.
As the Class of 2025 prepares to enter the workforce, the latest March jobs report offers fresh insight — both troubling and encouraging — into current market dynamics. On the positive side, March saw the addition of 228,000 new jobs, an improvement over February’s slower growth of 151,000. Wage growth held steady at 0.3% month-over-month, and sectors like healthcare and retail enjoyed noteworthy upticks in hiring.
But the unemployment rate inched upward, from 4.1% to 4.2%, a reminder of ongoing labor market challenges. And major hiring downturns in key sectors, like tech and consulting, continue.
NAVIGATING UNCERTAINTY WITH CONFIDENCE
Leavey School of Business Professor Meir Statman: “Focus on factors you can control, regardless of external conditions”
As graduation approaches, professors are sharing their advice to help students confidently navigate the twists of today’s shifting economy. First up is Meir Statman, Glenn Klimek professor of finance at Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business, renowned for his expertise in behavioral finance.
His advice to students? “Sit tight,” he says.
Statman encourages graduates to resist overreacting to volatile job market trends. “Sometimes fear sets in, causing people to extrapolate trends,” he explains. Instead, he advises students to focus inward, identifying their unique talents and passions. “Look for what feels easy — work that comes naturally to you, that others consistently compliment,” he suggests.
Statman offers an analogy, comparing the job market to playing tennis.
“Investing is like playing against a practice wall — you can position yourself to bounce the ball back reliably. But the job market is more like tennis against a random opponent; you might face an easy match or Djokovic. Luck plays a role.”
Rather than obsessing about whether the current labor market is exceptionally difficult, Statman stresses the importance of networking and industry fit.
“The job market might fluctuate, but your networking abilities greatly enhance your odds. Focus on factors you can control, regardless of external conditions,” he advises.
TAKING RISKS AND FINDING PURPOSE
In his new book, A Wealth of Well-Being: A Holistic Approach to Behavioral Finance, Statman emphasizes broader life well-being, advocating that financial goals alone aren’t enough. “Financial well-being supports life well-being, but it’s life well-being that we ultimately seek,” he explains.
He encourages students to embrace risks beyond the financial market — social risks or choosing careers aligned with their passions, even in uncertain times.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Statman recalls risking leaving Israel for the U.S. to pursue his Ph.D., a decision that profoundly shaped his life and career despite uncertainties. “When job prospects are tough, take the time to figure out the career that truly fits you. The most rewarding risk isn’t financial — it’s choosing a path aligned with your strengths and purpose.”
A BRIGHT FUTURE DESPITE MARKET FLUCTUATIONS
Georgetown McDonough Associate Dean of Career Services Christine Murray: “Build a foundation for long-term success — don’t be deterred by short-term market swings”
At Georgetown McDonough, Christine Murray, associate dean of Career Services, is focused on empowering students to thrive in today’s unpredictable job market. Responsible for corporate development across MBA, graduate, and undergraduate programs, she advises the Class of 2025 to leverage resilience, adaptability, and confidence — not just now, but throughout their careers.
“The Class of 2025 faces a career landscape marked by ups and downs, but there’s hope,” Murray says.
She’s optimistic, emphasizing students’ global perspectives, Jesuit values, and strong teamwork skills — all highly prized by employers. Murray has observed positive momentum in sectors like consulting and healthcare, the latter even inspiring McDonough to create a new MBA certificate program for graduates entering this field.
For Murray, success begins with networking — though she acknowledges it can feel intimidating.
“Networking isn’t about entering a crowded room and trying to impress everyone,” she explains. “It’s simply having curious conversations. It’s absolutely critical, especially in a competitive job market.”
KEY SKILLS FOR SUCCESS
Equally important is gaining relevant, future-focused skills, particularly experience with generative AI. Employers increasingly seek graduates who can integrate AI into their work processes.
“Generative AI won’t replace workers — but those who don’t embrace it risk being left behind,” Murray notes.
Beyond technical abilities, Murray emphasizes the power of storytelling, specifically students’ own narratives: “Articulating clearly who you are, what you stand for, and your intended impact is a simple but powerful way to future-proof your career.”
Regarding fears about the job market, Murray advises students not to let negative headlines dominate their thinking. “People see layoffs at major firms and assume there’s no space for them, but that’s the wrong mindset,” she explains.
Instead, she urges them to view their careers as a marathon, not a sprint.
“This moment is just one step in your professional journey. Build a foundation for long-term success — don’t be deterred by short-term market swings.”
For the Class of 2025, the road ahead may be uncertain, but with the right mindset and skills, it remains full of opportunity.
