In a tough economy, you might expect college students to be pessimistic as they prepare to enter a tightening job market. A new survey conducted by Honor Roll Online revealed some surprising results.

Students from over 77 leading universities were surveyed. 44% of students said they were positive about their prospects of finding a job once they graduate. 12% were very optimistic. While those results showed that most students are confident in their opportunities, there is still signs of apprehension as 24% of the respondents see the current job situation as challenging and 26% whose outlook is only fair.

"Recent grads and current students see their parents' apprehension regarding the current economic climate but also the opportunity to take advantage of the entry level jobs becoming available as businesses attempt to adjust their workforce", said Laurie Byrne, President of Honor Roll.

When asked about what type of resources they will use to find a job, over 36% of students responded that online resources will play an important role. 20% said they utilize school career service as a resource. 35% of respondents said friends, family and alumni will be key in finding a job. Networking is still considered key in any employment search.

Other results of the survey included considerations for choosing a company that students want to work for with 29% responding that career advancement opportunities at the top of their list. Compensation/benefits (20%), immediate job responsibilities/title ((19%) and company reputation (12%) were key considerations.

Company size was also important with 59% of students preferring to work for a mid-size company versus 27% for a global company or 14% for small and entrepreneurial organizations. The issue is awareness as not many students know the names of mid-size companies who would have positions and opportunities available to them.

"Now is an excellent time for companies without a national reputation or presence in the employment marketplace to take advantage of their financial strength and flexibility to attract students who are looking for solid career paths and other attributes related to long-tenured employment," noted Byrne.






Honor Roll Online (HRO) is America's premier career services provider for students at the country's top small universities and colleges. 
Honor Roll has consolidated the student population of the top small colleges, universities and scholarship foundations in the United States to offer its corporate affiliates the ability to create and execute successful, cost-effective recruiting campaigns. www.HonorRollOnline.com Laurie Byrne 630-348-7267