Is AI Taking All the Entry-Level Jobs?
How AI is Impacting Job Opportunities for College Graduates—and What Families Need to Know
You've seen the headlines: AI is transforming the way we work, eliminating entry-level opportunities, and contributing to one of the most challenging job markets for college graduates in years.
These headlines understandably raise concerns–and even fears–among parents and students who are asking whether their college degree will still be valuable and relevant, and whether there will be job opportunities after graduation.
So what’s the reality?
AI is impacting the workplace and certain entry-level jobs. But AI is not eliminating all opportunities. AI is also not the only factor contributing to the current job market; broader economic factors are also at play.
Here's what's actually happening
Not all entry-level job opportunities are impacted by AI
The good news is that AI is not eliminating or replacing all entry-level jobs; its impact varies across majors and fields. For example, college graduates with healthcare-related degrees have not been significantly affected; they're securing jobs quickly, a trend expected to continue. In contrast, computer science majors are facing more headwinds. Companies can now use AI to perform tasks such as generating code, jobs previously filled by new graduates. However, this does not diminish the value of a computer science degree. In fact, companies are seeking candidates with expertise in areas where AI falls short. But regardless of your college major or field, companies are becoming more selective in hiring. Graduates who possess experience and exceptional soft skills have a significant advantage.
AI is not the only contributing factor to the challenging job market
While many headlines suggest that AI is to blame, global economic uncertainty is having a significant impact. Amid this uncertainty, companies have scaled back hiring across all positions. Furthermore, older workers are staying in their jobs longer, limiting the number of opportunities available to new graduates. These factors contribute to a “low hire, low fire” economy. And according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers anticipate only a 1.2% increase in hiring for the class of 2026, a decrease compared to previous years. This more cautious approach to hiring affects college graduates more than other workers.
There’s still a lot we don’t know
Despite the headlines, we don't have all the answers yet. Employers, industries, and universities are adapting in real time, and ideas about using AI ethically in the workplace are evolving. However, students who have a strategic career vision, are adaptable, and put effort into building real-world experience—plus continue to strengthen their strong soft skills which are needed now more than ever—will continue to stand out and position themselves to succeed in this changing world.
5 Strategies to Future-Proof Your Career in the Age of AI
1. Choose your college major with intention. Deciding on a college major can be stressful, but it's critical to make this choice thoughtfully. Take the time to identify your strengths, interests, and career goals. Research how majors lead to various careers, and find out which fields are expected to have the most job openings and growth when you graduate, as well as those that are resilient to AI advancements and economic uncertainty. Making intentional choices will increase your confidence that you're making well-informed decisions about your future, leading to long-term success, fulfillment, and job security.
2. Master essential soft skills. Employers consistently emphasize the importance of soft skills in hiring decisions—and this is becoming increasingly crucial in the age of AI. As one employer recently told us, "I'll hire a candidate who can demonstrate soft skills over technical skills any day". While AI can handle routine tasks like crunching numbers or generating code, it can't replicate critical human skills such as empathy, critical thinking, oral communication, resilience, and teamwork. Regardless of your major or field, mastering soft skills is a crucial strategy for future-proofing your career and making yourself invaluable to employers in any economy.
3. Gain real-world experience. Data suggests that employers overwhelmingly prefer to hire graduates with relevant, hands-on work experience over those with only a degree. Gaining experience sets you apart as a candidate and demonstrates to employers that you can work in professional environments and have essential soft skills, such as teamwork and communication. Experience doesn't have to come solely from internships, either. Valuable experience can be gained through capstone classes, electives that integrate real-world experience, independent projects, part-time jobs, volunteering, and participation in student organizations. In today's era of AI and economic uncertainty, having experience is critical to landing an entry-level position.
4. Learn AI tools relevant your field. An employer recently told us that they now ask candidates in interviews, "What AI tools do you use that are relevant to this position?" This question highlights the growing importance of familiarity with AI tools across different careers and fields. There are lots of ways to acquire AI skills. Many colleges offer concentrations and minors in AI, professional certificates, and opportunities for students to use AI tools in real-world class projects. Students can also learn AI tools independently. For example, we advised a recently graduated client to learn AI tools listed as preferred in entry-level position job descriptions. This helped her secure more interviews and demonstrate to employers her commitment to lifelong learning. New AI tools are launched all the time; learning to use them is essential for building a future-proof career.
5. Create a strategic plan for your future. Nearly half of college students and recent graduates lack a clear career plan or feel unprepared for life after graduation. Those with defined goals are much more likely to make intentional decisions—such as choosing the right major, selecting relevant coursework, gaining meaningful experiences, and developing the soft skills that employers value most. A plan doesn’t have to be perfect, and it's OK if it evolves. But having a direction allows students to move forward with confidence and purpose rather than relying on guesswork. In job markets shaped by AI and economic uncertainty, a strategic plan is one of the most important steps a student can take.
Bottom Line
AI is not taking all the entry-level jobs but it is (along with other factors) transforming the job market.
Opportunities still exist, but competition for some entry-level jobs has increased.
Employers' expectations are now higher for entry-level jobs.
Students who create a strategic plan will secure the best opportunities.
Having a Plan is Now More Important Than Ever
Schedule an appointment or contact us today to get started on your personalized college-to-career plan.
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