Class of 2025 Graduates Into Uncertainty
As the class of 2025 walks the stage, many Black college seniors are stepping into a workforce more uncertain than in recent years. With a softening job market and rollbacks in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, students are finding it harder to land their first jobs—and harder still to feel welcome in the process.
According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the unemployment rate for new college grads rose to 5.8% in March, up from 4.6% a year ago.
Federal Cuts and DEI Pushback Shift Career Paths
Howard University graduate Dezmond Rosier had plans to join the U.S. Department of Education. But after federal cuts and former President Donald Trump’s renewed campaign to dismantle the agency and DEI initiatives, Rosier changed course.
“I definitely want to be in a position in which I’m wanted, not where I’m tolerated,” said Rosier, who now plans to work in grassroots politics in Maryland.
Internships Shrink and Research Funding Dries Up
Others are also facing shrinking opportunities. Grey Snyder, a psychology major at the University of Missouri, struggled to secure a lab position after funding uncertainty tied to Trump’s executive orders targeting DEI.
“It’s really affecting psychological sciences specifically,” Snyder said, “and any research about minorities or underprivileged populations.”
Résumé Choices Reflect DEI Backlash
Some students are even being advised to edit their résumés to avoid terms like “Black,” “BIPOC,” or “DEI,” which could be perceived as red flags under new hiring norms.
But many are refusing to erase their identities. “I’m not going to change anything,” said Victoria Pearson, a Howard senior studying media and journalism. “I want to be where I’m wanted.”
Another student added: “Don’t think it’s not valued just because it has the word Black in front of it.”
Looking Forward: Resilience and Resourcefulness
Walter Pearson of College Bound Parenting says job placement is down compared to past years—just 50% of his students have landed offers so far. Still, he and others urge grads to stay innovative and connected.
Louise Ross, a former HR executive, encourages students to lean into entrepreneurship, alumni networks, and the Divine Nine to navigate this climate.
“We’ve survived worse things,” Ross said. “These kids survived Covid. They certainly can survive D, E and I.”
