The labor market prospects for the Class of 2003 reflect the general state of the economy -- sluggish with little growth. While the percentage overall change from last year will be only a minus 1%, there will be variation across industrial sectors as well as size of company. According to Michigan State University's annual Recruiting Trends survey, employers will hire slightly more bachelor's graduates but fewer MBAs. Starting salaries will move upward by 1% to 3% for some companies but many plan to realign the high end of their salary ranges. The longer the economy remains stagnant, the greater the likelihood that salary levels may actually contract.

Employers expect to have fewer technical positions this year. Engineers and computer science graduates will have a challenging time as larger manufacturing firms, computer companies and consulting firms will only be hiring for a few positions this year. Some opportunities remain for liberal arts graduates as employers continue to seek well-rounded employees who can communicate, think critically and possess strong interpersonal skills. Business majors are poised to experience a rebound with all but marketing seeing more positions available. Employers likely to be seeking new graduates will be small (less than 1,600 employees) companies who traditionally do not recruit on college campuses. Expect the southeast region of the country to lead the nation out of the recession and be the first area to start hiring.

THE BLACK COLLEGIAN’s Top 100 Employers Survey examined major employers in industry, government and business to find out where the jobs are. Our annual survey provides current information that allows graduates of the Class of 2003 to focus their searches on employers actively hiring. Students entering the job market are encouraged to use the survey to spot trends in employment that may affect their job search. We have completed an ample amount of work for you with the publication of this survey. Kindly review our survey to target your job search and use this issue, THE BLACK COLLEGIAN Online, www.black-collegian.com and IMDiversity.com, www.imdiversity.com to reach employers interested in your skills. Write us about your success.

Good luck!