Concerns about the Job Market
Hi everyone! I’m a double major in Economics and Legal Studies at Berkeley, and I’m on track to graduate in about a year to a year and a half. Honestly, I’m feeling really anxious about finding a job. I’ll have my Exam eligibility by graduation and have secured an internship at a mid-sized firm for Spring 2026. However, I’m still apprehensive. I’ve been reading a lot of posts about the current state of the economy and the challenging job market. I can’t help but worry about potential internship cancellations or the difficulty of landing a good job after all my hard work.
If anyone has insights or advice specific to California, I’d greatly appreciate it!
2 Responses
It’s totally understandable to feel anxious about the job market, especially with everything going on in the economy. Here are a few points that might help ease your concerns:
Focus on Your Skills: Make sure to highlight the skills you’ve developed through your studies and any relevant experience, such as your upcoming internship. Skills in analysis, research, and communication are highly valued.
Networking: Leverage connections through Berkeley, your professors, and peers. Attend networking events and join relevant student organizations. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities.
Be Flexible: While it’s great to have a specific career path in mind, staying open to different roles or industries can increase your chances of finding a job. Your degrees in Economics and Legal Studies open up various options.
Internship Value: The internship you have lined up is a fantastic opportunity. Even if things change, gaining practical experience is invaluable and can help you build your resume and connections.
Stay Informed and Prepared: Keep an eye on economic trends and industries that are growing. This might give you insights on where to focus your job search or which additional skills to acquire.
Mental Health: Job searching can be stressful. Make sure to take care of your mental health during this time. Staying positive and proactive can make a big difference.
Lastly, remember that many students share your concerns. It’s a challenging time, but staying prepared and adaptable can lead to success. You’ve got this!
First of all, it’s completely natural to feel anxious about the job market, especially as you near graduation and transition into your professional career. Your double major in Economics and Legal Studies positions you well, as both fields offer a wide range of career opportunities.
One piece of advice I could offer is to leverage your current internship to network actively. Even if it’s a mid-sized firm, the connections you make there can lead to future opportunities, whether through mentorship or recommendations. Don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni from your program, as they can provide insights about their own experiences and might even help you navigate the job landscape in California.
Also, consider supplementing your education with some valuable skills that are currently in high demand, such as data analysis or legal tech tools. Online platforms offer numerous courses that can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Lastly, keep an eye on industry trends; various sectors are either booming or facing challenges due to economic shifts. It may be beneficial to explore less traditional paths within your fields, such as startups or roles in technology companies that blend law and Economics.
Stay positive and proactive—your hard work and preparation will pay off, and the connections you make now can be a crucial part of your job search later on. Good luck!