Is Your Career Plan Outdated? Big Firms Are Changing the Game

For a long time, the path to a great job after college seemed pretty clear: you work hard in class and on the field, graduate, and land a high-paying job at a big, well-known company. But the rules of the game are changing. A new report shows that major firms are cutting back on entry-level hiring, which means the career path you’ve been working toward might be harder to find.

The New Obstacles

This isn’t happening for just one reason; it’s a combination of new challenges. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is automating tasks that used to be done by entry-level employees, reducing the number of jobs available. Additionally, some companies are outsourcing work to save money.

There’s also a trend called “job hugging,” where people are staying in their current roles for a longer time. This means fewer people are leaving their jobs, so fewer spots are opening up for new graduates like you.

Your New Game Plan

With fewer open doors at big companies, you need to get creative with your career strategy. This might mean looking beyond the big-name firms. Smaller companies and startups can offer a ton of valuable experience and a chance to make a bigger impact early in your career.

As a student-athlete, you already have a huge advantage. The skills you’ve developed—discipline, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure—are exactly what these companies are looking for. Your athletic career has taught you how to adapt to new situations and find a way to win, even when the odds are stacked against you. Now, it’s time to apply that same mindset to your career search.