CAREERS NOW 08-12-09

Jobless Woman Sues College

DEAR JOYCE: Did you read the news about a 27-year-old New York City information technology grad who hasn't been able to find a job since she graduated with a bachelor's degree in April and sued Monroe College to get back her $70,000 tuition? .


She claims the college didn't deliver on its promises to help its graduates find jobs (an allegation disputed by the school.) My friends and I, all June graduates still hunting for employment, are debating whether hers is a frivolous lawsuit or if she's got a point. Are you surprised at this development? - C.R.K.

I'm not surprised to hear about an education consumer with buyer's remorse, especially in today's perfect storm - one created when a five- or six-figure student loan debt meets a sorry job market for searchers of all experience levels, including new graduates.

But I am surprised by the category of complaint. Typically, in my experience, the "why did we spend all this money on college when nobody will hire my kid?" anguish comes from parents of jobless liberal arts grads in dean's offices, not from litigious technology or engineering grads in courtrooms. Are we seeing the start of a trend?

To win her case, the plaintiff will have to prove that she is a competitive candidate and that Monroe College in the Bronx, a well established and regionally accredited institution, overpromised what it could and would do for her.

A Monroe College spokesman says the college continues to be willing to help the plaintiff search for employment.

An interesting spectrum of comments on the issue of taking personal responsibility or blaming the school for joblessness is posted on computerworld.com; search for

"Tech grad who can't find job sues to get tuition back."

DEAR JOYCE: As a four-month job hunter, I am seriously using my network to line up introductions to hiring executives. My own CPA (certified public accountant) says he's sorry but he really can't help me with introductions to his other clients. Am I wasting my time trying to change his mind? -- W.K.

I think you are spinning your wheels putting pressure on your reluctant CPA. The best short answer to your question comes from Matt Bud, chairman of The Financial Executives Networking Group (thefeng.org); ironically Bud is addressing financial specialists about lawyers:

"Urban legend would have them (lawyers) as great sources of job hunting opportunities. The truth is sadly different. They will, of course, appear to be helpful, but with client relationships at stake they are more often than not reluctant to help you with introductions to their clients. You can't blame them really. The best they can hope is that you won't mess things up."

Move on to members of your network who are more enthusiastic about helping you with contacts and have less to lose if you besmirch their coattails.

DEAR JOYCE: I've finally decided I'll have to leave this town to find work. Isn't there a Web site that tells you the cost of living in various places? - Y.M.

Try HomeFair.com, which offers not only a cost-of-living calculator, but other useful information, such as school reports and home affordability data.

DEAR JOYCE: Not by choice, I have to make a career change and would like to know where to look for career schools. Suggestions? - A.A.L.

Be wary of loading on education debt that you'll have trouble paying back. Compare such factors as cost, quality of education and demand for the occupation you would learn. Here are several Web sites to kick off your search: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (accsct.org); Adult Education and Career Schools Directory (caree schools.org); Campus Explorer (campusexplorer.com).

DEAR JOYCE: What do you consider to be the five most essential things a 60-year-old man should do in starting a job search? - C.J.

1. Organize your thoughts by writing a current and comprehensive core resume. Customize as needed for specific jobs.
2. Make a list of people who can help you - your personal network. Ask for job leads and introductions.
3. Make a list of employers who can hire you. Contact them when you're up to speed on what you're selling.
4. Do an appearance audit. Ask hairdressers, career coaches and job club advisers for evaluation.
5. Practice interviewing skills. Realize that interviews are the make-or-break factor.

This timeline works for any age.

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