The Digital Press

The job market for recent college graduates is showing signs of strain, with unemployment rising and even elite MBA grads struggling to find work. This trend may reflect lingering pandemic effects, a shift in the value of college degrees, or early impacts of AI on entry-level jobs.

Why it matters: Unusually high 5.8% unemployment for recent grads signals a challenging start to careers in tech, consulting, and finance.

The big picture: The college wage premium stopped growing around 2010, reducing the relative advantage of a degree in the job market.

The stakes: AI may be replacing routine tasks once done by young grads, potentially shrinking entry-level white-collar job opportunities.

Commenters say: Many caution against blaming AI alone, citing economic uncertainty, management decisions, and structural shifts as key factors affecting hiring.