Recent data from New Hampshire Employment Security indicates that the job market for college graduates is becoming increasingly difficult. In 2025, graduates aged 20 to 24 with bachelor's degrees faced a 7.2% unemployment rate, more than double the 3.4% rate for those with only a high school diploma. Furthermore, 28% of unemployed bachelor's degree holders remained jobless for 27 weeks or more, compared to 25% of high school graduates. Joanna Luiso, director of the Campus Career and Professional Development Center at Southern New Hampshire University, noted a contraction in the job market influenced by factors such as artificial intelligence, tariffs impacting manufacturing, and ongoing adjustments in hiring practices post-pandemic. Additionally, a report from Revelio Labs revealed that nearly 50% of job postings are 'ghost jobs' that do not result in actual hires. This inflation of job opportunities can mislead graduates. Luiso emphasized the importance of internships and networking as vital strategies for recent graduates. At a recent commencement ceremony, graduates expressed the need for flexibility in their job searches, with some acknowledging tighter job prospects in fields like education due to low pay and high competition. Overall, the current climate calls for resilience and adaptability among new graduates.