The promise that coding leads to prosperity has officially crumbled, leaving fresh computer science graduates in a challenging employment landscape. A recent study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reveals that unemployment rates for new computer science graduates range from 6.1% to 7.5%, which is more than double the rates faced by graduates in fields such as biology and art history.
A revealing article in the New York Times sheds light on the stark realities faced by these graduates. The individual stories shared are nothing short of surreal, illustrating the harsh job market conditions. For instance, Manasi Mishra, a 21-year-old graduate from Purdue University, was promised a six-figure starting salary upon graduation but found herself with only one interview opportunity—at Chipotle, which she did not secure.
Another alarming account comes from Zach Taylor, who graduated from Oregon State in 2023. Despite applying for nearly 6,000 tech jobs, he managed to land only 13 interviews and received no job offers. In a twist of irony, he was even rejected by McDonald’s for lacking the necessary experience.
The primary factors contributing to this troubling trend seem to be the rise of AI programming, which is reportedly eliminating junior positions, and significant layoffs at major tech companies like Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft. Graduates describe feeling trapped in an “AI doom loop,” where they use AI tools to submit mass applications while companies deploy AI systems to filter out candidates, often rejecting them within minutes.
Despite these daunting challenges, there is a silver lining. Manasi Mishra eventually secured a job through a cold application that proved successful. However, it is important to note that this new position is not in the field of software engineering, highlighting the ongoing struggle for graduates to find roles that align with their education and expectations.
The current job market for computer science graduates is fraught with challenges and uncertainties. With rising unemployment rates and the impact of AI on job availability, it is crucial for students and recent graduates to adapt their strategies and expectations in order to navigate this new landscape effectively.
