INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue IIIS October 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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Dreams Vs Reality Phenomenological Journey of Fresh Graduates
Seeking Employment in Competitive Industry
Rachel Ann P. Cudis
1
, Lyca J. Beldia
2
, Dan Zohar Mahilum
3
, Ellen Jean M. Galleto
4
, Ashllie Mea D.
Caldito
5
, Jenifer P. Daclan
6
Senior High School Department, Tongantongan National High School, Valencia City, Bukidnon,
Philippines.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.903SEDU0636
Received: 08 September 2025; Accepted: 16 September 2025; Published: 13 November 2025
ABSTRACT
The transition from graduation to employment represents a pivotal phase in a fresh graduate’s life, often
accompanied by a striking contrast between personal aspirations and the realities of the labor market. This study
explores the phenomenological journey of fresh graduates as they enter highly competitive industries, focusing
on the discrepancies between their career expectations and the practical challenges they encounter. Employing
a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research captures the lived experiences of graduates who are
actively navigating the job market, shedding light on their struggles, perceptions, and adaptive strategies. Data
were gathered through semi-structured interviews with individuals from diverse fields, allowing for an in-depth
exploration of common themes such as job search difficulties, employer expectations, and industry competition.
The findings reveal that lack of professional experience, skills mismatches, and oversaturated markets serve as
critical barriers to successful employment. In contrast, networking opportunities, continuous upskilling,
resilience, and adaptability emerged as essential strategies for managing these obstacles. Furthermore,
participants expressed varying perspectives on the adequacy of tertiary education in preparing them for real-
world professional demands, pointing to gaps between theoretical training and practical application. The study
underscores the pressing need for enhanced career readiness programs within educational institutions and more
inclusive, skill-oriented hiring practices in industries, ultimately bridging the gap between graduate expectations
and employment realities.
Keywords: Fresh Graduates, Employment Challenges, Job Search Strategies, Competitive Industries.
INTRODUCTION
The transition from college to the workforce is a significant phase for fresh graduates, but many face challenges
in securing employment, especially in competitive industries where job opportunities are limited. This study
explores the disparity between fresh graduates' career expectations and the realities they encounter in the job
market. It examines the various difficulties they face, the strategies they use in job applications, and how their
tertiary education influences their employment journey. By understanding these factors, the study aims to
provide insights into how educational institutions, employers, and policymakers can better support fresh
graduates in their employment transition.
As industries become increasingly competitive, companies now seek candidates with not only strong academic
backgrounds but also practical experience, specialized skills, and adaptability to workplace demands. However,
many fresh graduates enter the job market unprepared for these expectations, leading to high rejection rates and
difficulty in securing stable employment. This gap between education and employment raises concerns about
the effectiveness of current academic programs, career guidance services, and internship opportunities provided
by educational institutions. Through a phenomenological approach, this study aims to explore the real-life
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue IIIS October 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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struggles and aspirations of fresh graduates, providing valuable insights into how they navigate the challenges
of finding employment in a highly competitive job market.
Objectives of the study
This study aims to understand the employment journey of fresh graduates by examining the challenges they face,
the strategies they use, and their perspectives on the role of tertiary education in job searching. Specially this
study aimed to:
1. Explore the issue of challenges face by fresh graduates on job searching.
2. Identify job search strategies used by fresh graduates in apply for a job.
3. To explore fresh graduates’ perspective on the effect of tertiary education on fresh graduate’s job
searching.
Scope and Delimitation
This study focuses on fresh graduates who are actively seeking employment in competitive industries. It
investigates the challenges they face, the strategies they use, and their perspectives on how tertiary education
has prepared them for the workforce. The study is conducted in Valencia City, Bukidnon, and only includes
graduates from the past one to two years who are currently unemployed or still searching for jobs. It does not
include individuals who have secured stable employment, those pursuing further studies, or graduates working
in industries unrelated to their academic background. The study is also limited to qualitative data collection and
does not analyze numerical employment rates or broader economic factors.
METHODOLOGY
Research Design
The study adopts a qualitative phenomenological research design, which aims to understand the lived
experiences of fresh graduates seeking employment. Through individual semi-structured interviews and job
search journals, the research gathers detailed personal insights on job-seeking challenges, expectations vs.
reality, and strategies used by graduates in competitive industries.
Research Instrument
The study uses a semi-structured interview questionnaire, designed to allow flexibility while maintaining
consistency in data collection. The interview questions focus on graduates’ challenges, job search strategies, and
perceptions of tertiary education’s role in their employment journey. To ensure credibility, the questionnaire was
validated by industry experts, including HR professionals, career counselors, and academic researchers.
Participants were also asked to maintain job search journals, documenting their experiences, emotional
responses, and reflections on the job search process over a given period.
Locale of the Study
The study was conducted in Valencia City, Bukidnon, a fast-growing economic hub in Northern Mindanao. With
several universities and colleges producing fresh graduates each year, the city serves as a suitable setting for
studying the employment challenges of newly graduated individuals.
Participants and Sampling
Participants included fresh graduates actively seeking employment within competitive industries. The study used
purposive sampling, selecting graduates who met the criteria of being unemployed or actively searching for jobs
during the research period. Participants came from different academic backgrounds to ensure a diverse range of
experiences and insights.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Data Gathering Procedures
The data collection process involved conducting individual interviews with fresh graduates to gather firsthand
insights into their job search experiences. Participants were also asked to maintain job search journals to
document their emotions, reflections, and strategies over time. The responses were validated through expert-
reviewed interview questions to ensure clarity and relevance.
Data Analysis
A thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke (2006) was conducted to identify common patterns and recurring
themes in participants’ responses. This method allowed researchers to categorize data into key areas, such as
employment struggles, job search strategies, and perceptions of tertiary education. The findings were then
interpreted to develop a comprehensive understanding of fresh graduates’ employment realities.
Challenges Faced by Fresh Graduates in Job Searching
Fresh graduates often face difficulties in finding employment due to limited experience, high competition, and
mismatched skills. These challenges highlight the gap between academic preparation and the demands of the
labor market, making the job search a stressful and uncertain process
Emerging theme 1: Rejection Due to Lack of Experience
Fresh graduates highlight that experience is requirement employers often prefer candidates with prior work
experience, making it difficult for fresh graduates to secure jobs.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P6:” I applied for an entry-level position, believing that my education and skills would be enough,
but the employer preferred someone with prior work experience”
P9:” Even though I had relevant internships and training, it wasn’t enough to meet their
requirements.”
P5:” I applied for multiple positions, but I struggled to compete with candidates who had years
of work experience in the industry”
P2:” Despite having relevant skills and academic training, I found that many companies
prioritized hiring those with prior job experience over fresh graduates like me”
One of the most common barriers fresh graduates face in their job search is rejection due to lack of experience.
Participants emphasized that despite having relevant academic qualifications and skills, employers often
prioritize candidates who already have work experience. Even for entry-level roles, companies set requirements
that favor applicants with prior industry exposure, making it difficult for new graduates to secure employment.
This situation creates a cycle where fresh graduates struggle to gain experience because experience is required
to get hired. As a result, many graduates feel discouraged and undervalued, leading some to accept internships,
short-term contracts, or jobs outside their field to build their work experience.
According to Gratitude & Zembe (2020), fresh graduates encounter significant challenges in entering the
workforce due to their lack of practical experience. Their study revealed that employers are hesitant to hire new
graduates because they require additional training, which increases company costs. Similarly, Singh (2020)
found that job postings for fresh graduates often contain unrealistic expectations, requiring both a degree and
several years of prior experience, which discourages job seekers and prolongs their unemployment period.
Emerging theme 2: Conflicting Job Post Requirements
Fresh graduates emphasize the unrealistic expectation of job posting for fresh graduates often demand
experience, making job applications discouraging
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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These responses support the emerged theme:
P3:” I’ve seen job postings supposedly for fresh graduates but still asking for two to three years
of experience”
P7:” It made me question whether employers truly want fresh graduates or just prefer someone
who doesn’t need much training
P2:” Many job postings claim to be for fresh graduates but still require experience, which makes
it difficult and discouraging for those of us who are just starting our careers.”
P5:” I saw a job posting on Facebook, but it felt like they were being too picky, requiring both a
degree and several years of experience”
Fresh graduates highlighted that job postings often include unrealistic requirements that contradict their
designation as "entry-level" positions. Many participants expressed frustration over employers demanding two
to three years of experience for jobs supposedly meant for fresh graduates. This mismatch between job seekers'
qualifications and employer expectations makes job searching discouraging. Additionally, some participants
questioned whether companies truly want fresh graduates or prefer candidates who require minimal training.
These conflicting job post requirements create a sense of uncertainty and job insecurity among new graduates.
A study by Young & Roos (2024) supports this claim, stating that many companies use misleading job
descriptions that deter fresh graduates from applying. They argue that this discourages job seekers and increases
employment gaps. Additionally, Smith & Smith (2024) found that graduates who attempt to meet these
unrealistic expectations often face burnout and self-doubt, leading to a prolonged and frustrating job search
experience. The implication of these findings is that unless employers adjust their hiring practices and provide
more realistic entry-level opportunities, many fresh graduates may continue to struggle with unemployment or
underemployment, ultimately affecting both individual career growth and the wider labor market.
Emerging theme 3: Financial difficulties in job searching
Fresh graduates point out that expenses like transportation, application costs, and unpaid internships make job
searching financially challenging.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3:” here were times I had to skip opportunities simply because I couldn’t afford the travel
expenses”
P9:” Unpaid internships, while valuable, aren’t realistic when they don’t provide financial
support”
P5:” Most job offers are far away, and considering I don’t have money for transportation it’s
difficult to search for jobs
P2:” So far, it’s been difficult for me to find the money to meet job application requirements”
Another major challenge fresh graduates face is financial struggles when searching for jobs. Participants pointed
out that expenses such as transportation costs, application fees, and unpaid internships create a financial burden,
limiting their ability to attend job interviews or explore better opportunities. Some fresh graduates had to skip
job opportunities because they could not afford travel expenses, while others found unpaid internships to be
unrealistic since they do not provide financial support. These financial constraints worsen job search struggles,
especially for graduates who lack personal savings or family support.
Research by Kalyniuk et al. (2024) highlights that fresh graduate from low-income backgrounds face additional
financial barriers that hinder their job search process. They found that many graduates decline job opportunities
due to financial limitations, which significantly delays their employment. Similarly, Lu & Härkälä (2024) argue
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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that graduates without financial stability struggle to participate in networking events, career fairs, or skill-
building programs, further reducing their job prospects.
Emerging theme 4: Competition with Experience or Well-connected applicants
Fresh graduates highlight the unfair advantage because some applicants have better credential or industry
connections, making competition tougher
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3:” Even if I have the right skills, it sometimes feels like I’m at a disadvantage just because I
don’t have someone recommending me.”
P6:” Some had family connections in the industry, while others had internships at top
companies.”
P2:” Many of my colleagues had already obtained their professional licenses, while I was still in
the process of acquiring mine.”
P5:” I noticed that those who are usually hired have strong connections.”
Fresh graduates also face intense competition with experienced professionals or well-connected candidates.
Many participants felt that, even with strong academic credentials and skills, they were at a disadvantage
compared to applicants who had family connections, previous internships in top companies, or professional
licenses. This makes job searching highly competitive, especially in industries where networking plays a crucial
role in hiring decisions. Graduates without industry connections often feel overlooked, leading to a sense of
discouragement and frustration.
A study by Mushketova & Maletina (2020) found that nepotism and networking influence hiring decisions in
competitive industries, leaving fresh graduates at a disadvantage if they lack industry connections. Likewise,
George et al. (2023) observed that employers often select candidates through referrals rather than standard
application processes, making job searching particularly difficult for those who lack personal or professional
connections.
Emerging theme 5: Challenges in Networking for Job Opportunities
According to the fresh graduates that they struggle Difficult Networking to establish professional relationships
due to lack of guidance and confidence.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P6:” Messaging professionals felt intimidating, and I didn’t always get responses.”
P7:” Networking was intimidating at first because I didn’t know the right way to approach
professionals
P5:” I haven’t tried networking to find a job because, for me, social media is not always
trustworthy.”
P4:” I’ve tried reaching out to professionals online, but it’s difficult to build meaningful
connections because many don’t respond or seem too busy.”
Many fresh graduates struggle with networking and building professional relationships due to lack of guidance
and confidence. Participants expressed that reaching out to professionals online felt intimidating, and in many
cases, messages were ignored. Some also felt unsure about how to approach networking properly, which limited
their chances of making professional connections. Others avoided networking because they did not trust social
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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media or believed that it would not lead to real job opportunities. This lack of confidence in networking
significantly reduces their ability to access hidden job markets where many opportunities are filled through
referrals.
According to Santos (2020), networking is one of the most effective strategies for career success, yet many fresh
graduates fail to utilize it due to fear of rejection or lack of networking skills. Their study found that graduates
who actively engage in networking events or professional communities have higher employment rates. Similarly,
Yu et al. (2024) emphasize that mentorship programs and career workshops help graduates build the confidence
needed to connect with industry professionals, improving their job prospects.
Emerging theme 6: Oversaturation of the job market
Many fresh graduates says that the too many of them compete for limited job opportunities, making employment
difficult.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P6:” There are many fresh graduates competing for a limited number of positions”
P9:” Many end up taking unrelated jobs first”
P2:” The problem is that there are too many fresh graduates who have obtained their licenses
but remain jobless.”
P5:” In my field, many graduates are forced to take jobs unrelated to their studies because there
aren’t enough entry-level opportunities.”
Fresh graduates also struggle with oversaturation in the job market, as too many candidates compete for a limited
number of positions. Many participants pointed out that even those with professional licenses remain jobless due
to high competition in their field. Others shared that many graduates end up taking jobs unrelated to their degrees
because of the lack of entry-level opportunities. This forces fresh graduates to settle for positions below their
qualifications, making career advancement more difficult.
According to Bhandari et al. (2021), oversaturation in certain industries results in job seekers accepting lower-
paying roles outside their field. Their study found that graduates in fields like business and healthcare often take
unrelated jobs due to a lack of openings in their industry. Additionally, Ciff et al. (2024) highlight that labor
market oversaturation is a growing concern, as more graduates enter the workforce each year without a
proportional increase in job opportunities.
Strategies Used by Fresh Graduates in Applying for a Job.
To overcome the challenges of job searching, fresh graduates use different strategies such as improving their
résumés, enhancing skills, networking, and exploring online platforms to increase their chances of employment.
Emerging theme 1: Preferred Platforms and Their Effectiveness
Fresh graduates explore multiple online job platforms, but their effectiveness varies. LinkedIn is frequently used
for professional networking, while Job Street and Indeed offer a wider range of job listings for entry-level roles.
However, many graduates face challenges with job postings requiring experience, limiting their chances of
securing interviews.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3:” "I used LinkedIn, Job Street, and Indeed, but I didn’t find LinkedIn as useful as people say.
Many job postings required years of experience, even for entry-level roles."
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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P4:”"LinkedIn was great for networking and connecting with recruiters, but job Street had the
most entry-level positions that fit my qualifications."
P5:” "Indeed had many job postings, but some lacked proper job descriptions, making it hard to
know what employers were looking for."
P7:"I received the most responses from job Street, while LinkedIn helped me connect with
recruiters, though not all of them replied”
Job search platforms play a significant role in employment-seeking strategies, but fresh graduates often find that
experience requirements hinder their applications. While LinkedIn helps with networking, direct job applications
are more successful on job Street and Indeed. However, unclear job descriptions on these platforms create
uncertainty in job seekers.
According to Xu and Saxton (2022) conducted a study on the effectiveness of LinkedIn in job search outcomes
and found that while the platform enhances professional branding and visibility, it does not always guarantee
job placement. Their research highlights that LinkedIn is highly beneficial for mid-career professionals and
experienced job seekers, but fresh graduates often struggle to secure job offers due to the prevalence of
experience-based hiring criteria. The study also suggests that graduates who actively engage with industry
professionals and participate in discussions tend to receive more responses from recruiters, though this is not
always the case for all users. Lu and Zhou (2023) examined the role of job boards in modern job search strategies
and emphasized that while platforms like job Street and Indeed provide easy access to numerous job listings,
they lack transparency in job descriptions. Many job seekers find it challenging to determine the specific
qualifications employers are looking for, leading to uncertainty and unsuccessful applications. The study also
found that job boards that allow for direct employer interaction and provide detailed job postings increase the
likelihood of successful job placements, highlighting the importance of clarity in job advertisements.
Emerging theme 2: The Importance of Resume Customization
Graduates who tailor their resumes and cover letters to fit job descriptions tend to receive better responses.
Strategic keyword placement, industry-specific formatting, and highlighting relevant experiences increase their
chances of getting interviews.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3:"After modifying my resume to emphasize my internship experience and relevant skills, I was
invited for an interview."
P:4 "I created multiple versions of my resume tailored to different job industries instead of
rewriting everything for each application."
P:5"I added specific keywords from job descriptions to my cover letter, and it made a difference
in getting interview invitations."
P:6 "Highlighting leadership and teamwork experience in my resume helped me stand out,
especially when I lacked work experience."
Personalizing resumes and cover letters is an effective job-seeking strategy. Graduates who focus on aligning
their application materials with job descriptions and emphasizing relevant experience increase their interview
chances. A lack of customization often results in fewer callbacks.
Brown and Taylor (2021) explored the effectiveness of resume customization and its impact on interview
callback rates. Their findings suggest that tailoring a resume to align with job descriptions significantly increases
the chances of being shortlisted. Employers are more likely to respond positively to applications where
candidates emphasize relevant skills, use industry-specific keywords, and structure their resumes in an easily
readable format. The study also found that generic resumes, which do not highlight job-specific competencies,
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are often overlooked by recruiters and automated application tracking systems. Martinez (2023) analyzed the
role of cover letters in job applications and found that personalized cover letters significantly enhance employer
interest. The study revealed that employers value candidates who demonstrate an understanding of the
company’s values and job expectations. Job seekers who integrate specific skills, past experiences, and company
knowledge into their cover letters tend to perform better in the hiring process. Martinez also noted that
highlighting soft skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork in resumes and cover letters
contributes to higher interview success rates.
Emerging theme 3: Opportunities and Limitations of Job Fairs
Job fairs serve as a direct interaction point between job seekers and employers. While some graduates benefit
from on-the-spot interviews, others feel that job fairs are merely for collecting resumes, offering little immediate
hiring potential.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3: "I attended a university job fair and was able to speak with recruiters, one of whom scheduled
an interview on the spot."
P4:"Some job fairs were helpful, but others just felt like a way for companies to collect resumes
without offering real opportunities."
P5:"I met recruiters at a job fair who gave useful career advice, even though I didn’t receive an
immediate job offer."
P6:"A company representative at a job fair explained their hiring process, which helped me
prepare better for future applications."
Job fairs present both opportunities and challenges. Some graduates successfully secure interviews, while others
feel that many companies use job fairs for employer branding rather than immediate hiring. The effectiveness of
job fairs depends on how actively recruiters engage with candidates.
Nguyen and Harris (2022) conducted a study on job fairs as a recruitment strategy and found that while they
serve as a useful networking tool, their direct hiring success rate remains relatively low. Many employers use
job fairs primarily to gather resumes rather than to conduct immediate hiring. The study also pointed out that job
fairs offer fresh graduates an opportunity to engage with recruiters, gain industry insights, and receive career
advice, but actual job placements resulting from these events remain limited. Successful job fair participants
tend to be those who approach recruiters confidently, ask insightful questions, and follow up with companies
after the event. Mason, R. (2021). compared the effectiveness of university job fairs versus public job fairs and
found that university job fairs generally provide better outcomes for fresh graduates. These events are often
tailored to match students’ academic backgrounds and provide a more structured hiring process. Public job fairs,
on the other hand, tend to attract a broader audience, making it more competitive and harder for fresh graduates
to stand out. The study also suggested that students who prepare for job fairs by researching potential employers
and refining their resumes tend to experience higher levels of success.
Emerging theme 4: Networking for Employment Opportunities
Building professional networks through LinkedIn and other platforms increases job prospects. However, getting
responses from recruiters is difficult without prior engagement or referrals. Some fresh graduates find
networking more effective through alternative channels like online job groups and in-person events.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P3: "I connected with professionals in my field on LinkedIn and engaged with their posts, but
responses were rare unless I had a referral."
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P4:"Networking helped me learn about job openings that weren’t widely advertised, and some
recruiters even reached out to me directly."
P5:” I joined Facebook groups and online forums for job seekers, which led to more job leads
than LinkedIn."
P6:"Attending networking events in person helped me gain better connections than just sending
messages online."
Networking is a crucial part of job searching, but fresh graduates struggle to gain meaningful responses from
recruiters. While LinkedIn is useful, alternative networking strategies, such as attending career events or joining
online communities, provide additional opportunities.
Stewart and Clark (2023) explored the impact of LinkedIn engagement on job search success and found that
professionals who actively participate in LinkedIn communities, share relevant content, and engage with industry
leaders tend to receive more job opportunities. However, their study also noted that many recruiters prioritize
candidates with prior industry experience, making it difficult for fresh graduates to gain traction through
networking alone. They concluded that while LinkedIn is a valuable tool for professional growth, job seekers
must combine it with offline networking strategies for better results. Lopez and Kim (2022) analyzed the role of
informal networking in employment outcomes and found that personal referrals and word-of-mouth
recommendations play a crucial role in job acquisition. Their study revealed that many job openings are never
publicly advertised and are instead filled through internal referrals and professional connections. Fresh graduates
who actively participate in networking events, join online job-seeking communities, and seek mentorship from
experienced professionals tend to have a higher chance of securing employment. The research emphasized that
networking is not just about making connections but also about maintaining relationships and demonstrating
professional value over time.
Graduates' Perspectives on the Effect of Tertiary Education on Job Searching
Graduates often view tertiary education as a crucial factor in their job search, believing that the knowledge,
skills, and credentials they gained in college significantly influence their employability and career opportunities.
Emerging theme 1: Internship Exposure and Career Readiness
Internships play a crucial role in equipping fresh graduates with real-world experience, but many feel that career
counseling and job placement support are insufficient. Some institutions offer strong internship programs but
lack structured guidance on transitioning into the workfore
These responses support the emerged theme:
P2: "(Name of school) provided valuable internship experiences through practice teaching,
which helped us gain real-world classroom exposure. However, career counseling and resume-
building workshops could have been more extensive."
P1: "(Name of school) provided valuable internship opportunities, but there could have been
more career development programs, such as mock interviews and networking events."
P5"(Name of school) provided hands-on training through internships with law enforcement
agencies, which was very beneficial. However, there could have been more preparatory programs
for entrance exams in agencies.”
P9: "(Name of school) provided internship programs where we worked on real farms and
agricultural businesses, which gave us practical experience. However, more guidance on
agribusiness opportunities and government funding programs would have been helpful."
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Internships provide critical exposure to industry practices, yet many graduates feel unprepared when
transitioning from academia to employment. While hands-on experience is beneficial, the absence of
comprehensive career counseling, resume workshops, and networking opportunities puts some graduates at a
disadvantage. Institutions need to integrate career preparation programs alongside internships to ensure a
smoother transition into the workforce
Henderson and Riley (2022) found that while internships improve job readiness, institutions must complement
them with structured career guidance. Their study revealed that universities offering mentorship programs
alongside internships produce graduates with higher employment rates. Similarly, Jackson and Bridgstock
(2023) emphasize the role of employability training, noting that institutions must move beyond internship
placements and provide real-world application strategies through resume workshops and interview preparation.
Emerging theme 2: Practical Application of Academic Learning
Graduates recognize the importance of specific courses in their job search. Many found that industry-relevant
coursework, such as financial statement analysis, classroom management, or forensic science, helped them
answer technical interview questions effectively
These responses support the emerged theme:
P1:"The financial statement analysis course was particularly helpful. During an interview, I was
given a case study on a company’s financial health and asked to provide recommendations."
P2: "Classroom management was one of the most practical courses. During interviews, I was
often asked how I would handle disruptive students or keep a class engaged."
P5: "The Forensic Science course was particularly helpful. During an interview, I was asked
about crime scene investigation procedures, and my understanding of evidence collection helped
me confidently answer technical questions."
P6: "The Structural Analysis course was particularly useful. During an interview, I was asked to
evaluate the stability of a proposed building design, and my knowledge of load distribution helped
me answer the technical questions."
Academic coursework that incorporates real-world applications significantly aids graduates in job interviews.
Employers prioritize candidates who can demonstrate practical problem-solving skills over those who solely rely
on theoretical knowledge. Therefore, universities should align curricula with industry demands by integrating
hands-on case studies, software training, and professional simulations.
Wilson and Harper (2021) found that industry-specific coursework directly impacts employability. Their study
concluded that graduates who took applied courses, such as case-based financial analysis or technical lab work,
performed better in interviews. Likewise, Harper et al. (2011) emphasize that universities must adapt curricula
to technological advancements, ensuring graduates are equipped with skills aligned with market demands.
Emerging theme 3: Prestige vs. Skill-Based Hiring
Graduates from less prestigious universities recognize that top-tier schools offer networking advantages.
However, they emphasize that skill demonstration through internships, certifications, and real-world experience
helps level the playing field.
These responses support the emerged theme:
P2:"Graduates from well-known universities sometimes have an advantage, especially in private
and international schools. However, strong teaching skills and experience can level the playing
field."
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P3:"Yes, graduates from prestigious universities often have better initial opportunities due to
strong alumni networks. However, I found that demonstrating my skills through projects and
internships helped me compete."
P6: "Yes, top universities often have stronger industry connections, which can give their
graduates an advantage. However, in civil engineering, skills, certifications, and field experience
are more important."
P9: "Graduates from well-known agricultural universities sometimes have an edge in research
and government positions. However, in agriculture, experience and practical skills matter more."
While elite universities offer networking advantages, skill-based hiring is gaining traction in competitive
industries. Employers prioritize candidates with hands-on experience and industry certifications over those
relying solely on university prestige. Fresh graduates must focus on upskilling and practical exposure to remain
competitive.
Backman and Barker (2022) examined the role of university prestige in hiring decisions and found that while
top-tier schools provide networking benefits, skill-based hiring is becoming more prominent. Meanwhile,
(Brown’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 2023) argue that companies now prioritize candidates with relevant
experience, certifications, and technical skills over academic pedigree.
CONCLUSION
The transition from university to the professional workforce is a critical phase in the lives of fresh graduates.
This study explored the phenomenological journey of fresh graduates seeking employment in competitive
industries, identifying the barriers they face and the strategies they employ to secure job opportunities. While
tertiary education provides fundamental knowledge and skills, many graduates struggle with misaligned
expectations, lack of work experience, and a highly competitive job market
The findings revealed several key challenges, including rejections due to lack of experience, unrealistic job
posting requirements, financial constraints in job searching, and difficulties in professional networking. Many
participants expressed frustration over employers demanding prior experience even for entry-level positions,
which creates a cycle where graduates cannot gain experience because they are not given opportunities.
Additionally, competition with well-connected applicants and an oversaturated job market further intensifies the
employment struggle.
Despite these difficulties, graduates actively seek ways to improve their job prospects. Common strategies
include modifying resumes and cover letters to match job descriptions, utilizing online job platforms, attending
job fairs, networking through LinkedIn and industry events, and taking online courses to enhance their skills.
However, many still feel that universities do not adequately prepare them for the realities of job hunting,
highlighting the need for stronger career guidance and more practical industry exposure during college.
This study emphasizes the urgent need for reforms in education, hiring practices, and employment policies to
support fresh graduates in their job-seeking journey. Universities should enhance career readiness programs,
employers should reconsider experience-based hiring, and graduates should continue to upskill and network
effectively. By addressing these gaps, stakeholders can create a more inclusive and supportive employment
landscape, ensuring that fresh graduates can successfully transition from academia to professional careers
RECOMMENDATIONS
Educational institutions should enhance career readiness initiatives by providing resume-writing workshops,
mock interviews, and internship guidance. These programs can better equip students with practical knowledge
and confidence before entering the job market.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue IIIS October 2025 | Special Issue on Education
Page 8437
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Colleges and universities should establish stronger partnerships with industries to offer hands-on internship
programs, seminars, and job fairs. This collaboration will help bridge the gap between academic training and
actual workplace expectations.
Fresh graduates should invest in continuous learning by enrolling in online courses, attending seminars, or
obtaining professional certifications to remain competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.
Employers are encouraged to design realistic job requirements for entry-level positions by focusing on skills,
attitude, and potential rather than prior work experience. Providing mentorship and onboarding programs can
also help new graduates transition effectively into the workforce.
Government agencies should develop employment assistance programs and provide incentives to companies that
hire fresh graduates. Establishing career counseling centers and offering free training programs can also support
unemployed graduates in finding meaningful employment.
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