Dec. 1, 2004

Contact: Jo Ann Lloyd
(805) 756-1511

Job Prospects Looking Up for Cal Poly Grads

SAN LUIS OBISPO - As Cal Poly's mid-year commencement draws near, the approximately 900 students expecting to graduate have reason to be optimistic: job prospects are up.

"The university's Career Services has experienced a marked increase in employer activity this year, and employers have become more proactive in recruiting new graduates," said Martin Shibata, interim director of career services and testing services.

At the recent Fall Job Fair, record numbers of employers and students turned out. "More than 90 employers participated, representing a broad spectrum of employment needs," Shibata said. "In addition, more than 1,600 students were in attendance. We expect an even larger turnout at our Winter Job Fair in February."

The university's on-campus recruiting program has also experienced an increase, with large numbers of employers interviewing students and posting jobs on a regular basis.

"Employer information sessions are up. Career counseling appointments are up. All these factors point to a stronger and more-active job market," Shibata said. "The last two years, the job market has been stable, reflecting some growth. This year, the outlook is even more positive in all sectors. We expect this trend to continue this year, providing our Cal Poly students with opportunities for Co-ops (Cooperative Education), internships, summer and career jobs."

For more information, contact Shibata at (805) 756-5726 or mshibata@calpoly.edu.

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