Degree achieved and now no employment
I completed my degree the first of may and was laid off the end of May, I did move up in Aug of that yr and thought my degree had really paid off. But then that job laid me off after 4 years and I was laid off for 2 years, the next job did not want people with a degree in fact the administrator lorded over those with a degree that she did not have a degree and was making more money than those with one. Now she has laid me off and I have not been able to secure another job probably between the fact that I do have a degree and that I am 64 years old, most job finding web sites ask what year I graduated from high school and hang up the phone interview !!!!! so much for age having any effect on jobs!!!!!, social security does not apply until after age 66 and if you want full benefits you need to work until 70, so want does a person do between 65 and 70 if they want to work and can??????
Virginia i feel for you. I have a BA and MA. What I would say is that colleges are churning out more graduates with degrees then can be absorbed by the economy. I think what matters more now is who your references are--this has been true in my case. I started substitute teaching and in most states, you can probably do that with a BA. This has allowed me to survive until a job in my career path comes up but I'm scared. I turned 50 recently.
Remember Virginia, What doesn't kill you, Makes you stronger. Trust me, I feel your anger. Channel it in the proper direction and that direction is to find a better job with a better company. Sounds like the company you were with doesn't deserve your talent anyway.. I worked for a large company for 28 years. I was planning retirement, just 7 years to go and "KABLOOM" Laid off. I am now working on a plan that will secure my retirement and my childrens and their kids. You will be fine or even better.....
I am so sorry to hear that! It sounds like to me that this administrator was jealous of you? The only people we can control is US! The only thing I can suggest is to take off as many dates as possible on your resume that would give away your age. Now, that you have a college degree; you don't list when you graduated from high school. What did you major in? I live in Pennsylvania and the mandatory retirement age for State employees is 65. The only suggestion I can make is do a skills inventory of all the things your life has taught you. Do a resume that highlights your life experience and what you can contribute to an organization. I'm sorry I can't be more to you! Good luck to you!
Ms. Green your degree is only a tool for more choices. Isn't the save all or holy grail. There is a degree on every corner. Glade that you have it, but it really does not mean that you have it made. Oooooo yes..... You still have to compete.
Virginia, Focus on the positives and the things you can control. The fact that you have a degree is a Great accomplishment and aid in seeking out a job or career. Any employer that does not value or demeans your higher education simply does not deserve you. I don’t know the circumstances that led you to work for that manager who looked down on college degree applicants but I suggest that you stay away from those type of employers. They are NOT the right fit for you. Ageism bias unfortunately exist but that’s a predominate hiring practice among all employers. Besides, your age is your age. There’s nothing you can do to change that so don’t let the way you perceive others are judging you limit your value within the job market. You're a highly educated and experienced applicant seeking the right job opportunity within an organization that is going to value your contribution and welcome you to their team. Anything less than that would be selling yourself short. Job searching is a frustrating and stressful process for all job seekers no matter their age, education, and experience but you have to try to remain focus, persistent, and determined to succeed. Stay encouraged and keep at it.
Just wanted to let you know asking ANY question that could give your age away is a big "no-no" in an interview. The question could have been asked, "Have you graduated high school/ college?" but not specifically what year. I think I would have responded, "Yes, I've graduated high school/ college and will be able to provide documentation during the onboarding process". Know your rights!