Major College Job Fair Today

By Tom Horgan, NHCUC President

When New Hampshire’s college students receive their diplomas this spring, the sense of urgency to find gainful employment may feel a little greater than graduates in other states. That’s because Granite State grads have a substantially larger debt to repay than students from the rest of the country.  

According to the Institute for College Access & Success, New Hampshire college students carry the highest debt load in the country, with more than $31,000.  No other state is above $30,000.

“Heavy debt puts our students at a big disadvantage,“ says Tom Horgan, President of New Hampshire College and University Council. “Paying down debts is a big motivator for students, and it’s why we hope this year’s annual job fair will offer the solutions they need.”

More than 500 college seniors and recent graduates are expected to descend on Manchester’s Radisson Hotel next week for the 39th annual Job Fair hosted by NHCUC.  The job fair will be held today, from 2-5 pm. This year, nearly 70 businesses seeking new hires will meet students and conduct job interviews.  These companies represent a major cross-section of professions in and around New Hampshire.

“Our job fair has a proven track record of linking graduates with employers.  This is a great chance for students and graduates to find good paying jobs in their field of study,” says Horgan.  “The job fair is our chance to provide students with more than just a diploma.  This gives them that opportunity to land the job they see, pay their debts and realize their dreams.”

Students from 24 New Hampshire colleges and universities will participate in the job fair, which is the largest and oldest of its kind in New England. The job fair is free for college students and recent graduates of participating schools.  “The unemployment rate creates a daunting hurdle for new graduates who must compete in the workforce with more experienced professionals.  Participating businesses are looking for entry level workers who are just starting their careers.  We’re proud to have provided this connection between students and employers for 39 years,” says Horgan.

The New Hampshire College & University Council is a non-profit consortium of 17 public and private institutions of higher education in the state of New Hampshire. These institutions are recognized and highly regarded for their outstanding teaching, research, and community service activities. They serve as major centers of activity that are vital to the economic development of the community and the state. Founded in 1966, the Council's mission is the advancement of public and private higher education in the state. Through collaborative efforts between the 17 member colleges and universities, the consortium enhances educational opportunities for nearly 73,000 students currently attending our member institutions.