Which careers remain popular with new graduates in New York?

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Spring is a time of new beginnings — flowers bloom, warm weather returns and new graduates head out into the workforce. 

Heather Difino is the director of career services at St. John Fisher University. She works with students during their time there, helping them discover what career best suits them. 

“Realizing what you like is great, but realizing what you don’t like is half the battle,” said Difino. “You should know what you’re looking for in an opportunity.”

The top industries new graduates are heading into haven’t changed much over the last five years. Health care remains popular, along with human services and business careers, according to Difino. 

“We’re still seeing healthcare increase in employment, even after the pandemic,” said Difino. “I wouldn’t say it’s a new trend there’s still a need, especially in mental health services.”

Another popular industry for 2024 graduates might surprise you. Difino says she’s seeing a lot of interest in travel and leisure-type jobs. Another draw to the travel industry is the flexibility it offers. Difino says graduates are looking to have the ability to be their own boss, something more available in this field. 

“Those fields have more of a gig economy, a lot of grads are looking for part-time or a side hustle,” said Difino. 

She says it’s taking grads an average of six months to land that first job. Understanding what skills you can bring to a job, having the right documents and being kind to yourself can go a long way.