World of the job hunter
is a dismal place

AS I listened to two students conversing the other day, I couldn't help but feel for them as they, in frightened tones, tried to figure out what to do once they graduate.

It was a dilemma I could understand.

When I was in high school at Kahuku, I envisioned myself eventually earning a degree at a university and becoming this very sought after, thriving -- not to mention rich -- career woman. I had yet to learn the workings of the "real world."

Last year I graduated from the University of Hawaii with a degree in communications. I was thrust into the world of the job hunter, searching for what would turn out to be an elusive prize.

First, I set out for executive positions in my field of study. (I know, ha-ha!) I was told I didn't have enough experience.

When hopes of finding a job, any job, in Hawaii dwindled, I began searching for entry-level positions, very low-paying jobs that didn't call for extensive experience. This time, I was told by employers that I was overqualified.

As a graduate, I realized I no longer had any excuse to be unemployed. People no longer reached out to help me, the "starving student."

Many of my close friends were finding jobs. However, I was not. It started to get scary so I considered moving to the mainland. I began calling friends on the mainland, asking for advice. Then -- and it never failed -- they would say, "Have you lost your mind? You live in the most beautiful place on Earth!"

Their advice was to stay home with the great beaches, great people and sunny weather. I told myself I would not give up.

FINALLY, after standing in line for six hours with 800 other people applying for jobs at Hawaiian Airlines, a feeling of peace came over me and I knew that I would have a job as a flight attendant. Now I can stay in the most beautiful place on Earth.

Rumor has it that it is nearly impossible to work, live and prosper in Hawaii. But with a little preparation and perseverance, it is possible.

To students: I suggest applying for internships as early as possible. Get as many as you can. Pay your dues and get the experience while you still have the safety net of school. Do it while people still want to help you, a striving student.

We hear many scare stories about how hard it is to find a job here, but rarely take into account all of the graduate success stories. For some, finding a job was easy, for some it was hard, but for all it was possible. Never fear, jobs are here.

---

Crystal Ferguson-Young, 23, couldn't give up
school cold turkey so she is pursuing a second degree
in journalism while working.

Rant & Rave is a Tuesday Star-Bulletin feature
allowing those 12 to 22 to serve up fresh perspectives.
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