By Marie Toulouse
It seems that no matter where you turn today you are constantly reminded of the current economic climate. Whether it is watching television and seeing a Dominos bailout commercial, or reading a movie review that criticizes movies like "Confessions of a Shopaholic" for being too materialistic in these hard economic times.
Even driving through your local neighborhood and seeing businesses closing their doors and foreclosure signs are a constant reminder that we have fallen on harder times.
When you're a senior in college these signs may be all the more disheartening for you if you do not already have a job locked down for after graduation. Some professors are advising students to stay in school, or join the Peace Corps, which does not give the most reassuring message to most students. Not only are major corporations having layoffs they are also job freezes, which means they are not hiring any new employees.
"Job hunting is quite a challenge these days due to the state of the economy. If you're motivated enough to get a job patience is key," said Jenny Phillips, assistant editor of the Log.
According to the Employment Department News and Information site Oregon's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose to 10.8 percent in February from 9.8 percent (as revised) in January.
The state's unemployment rate has risen rapidly and substantially over the past eight months, from a rate of 5.9 percent in June 2008. The last time Oregon's unemployment rate was in double digits was in January 1984, when the rate was 10 percent. Oregon is currently rated as having the fifth highest unemployment rate in the nation.
"I heard the maple syrup business is booming, maybe I'll move to Canada," senior Hunter Petterson said.
When you drive around the North Portland area you can't help but wonder how the local businesses are coping. "I will often get cut earlier and I have definitely noticed the days to be slower," said Brent Kelleran an employee at local restaurant and bar Sagittarius.
It seems that the importance of supporting local businesses is more imperative now than ever.
I have found from talking to others as well as my own personal experience that using connections and utilizing my network has been the best way for finding job opportunities.
Another thing I found out from talking to people who had already found jobs was that doing informational interviews was a great way to establish connections that could lead to possible future positions.
One of the most important things to remember is to stay optimistic and not lose hope because if you keep persistent something is sure to come your way.
Marie Toulouse is a senior marketing and management major
