Thousands of Ottawa graduates cross the stage but head into a tough job market

College and university students in Ottawa are taking part in graduation ceremonies, but many are entering a tough job market. CTV’s Camille Wilson reports.

Carleton University kicked off its convocation ceremonies on Monday. After years of studying and prepping, hundreds of students crossed the stage ready to step into the workforce.

Rachel Fiset graduated with a Master of Arts in political science. With a co-op, she says she’s very happy and proud of herself.

“It feels amazing. I finished my thesis and just defended my dissertation,” said Fiset, “It’s been a long time coming to walk the stage, but I’m very happy to be done.”

After being in school for six years, she says she’s excited to be out in the world.

“I’m very lucky. With my co-op, I was able to get bridged into national defense. I’m very excited to be working there and continue working there,” said Fiset. “I have a lot of hope and aspirations for the future.”

Kénane Séléles, who is heading right into the workforce after her five-year program, was receiving her bachelor’s degree in global and international studies, with a stream in migration and transnationalism.

“I was one of the fortunate people that got a job right after graduation, so I’m actually already working,” said Séléles.

She says hard work and dedication has paid off.

“It feels surreal because when you go into it you don’t see the light at the tunnel. You’re like, ‘am I ever going to get out?’ But now that I’m out, there is a light. I just kept on pushing through,” said Séléles.

Tala Elmon, who is majoring in global politics with honours, says she’s still looking.

“Excited for what’s about to come. A little worried about heading into finding a full-time job and everything, but excited,” said Elmon, “I’m crossing my fingers and hoping it goes well but we’ll see.

Elmon says she’s hoping to go into a program management project. but knows it will be a long road.

The latest data from Statistics Canada shows the youth unemployment rate at 13.4 per cent in May, more than double the national average. However, many graduates are remaining hopeful to find work.

Tadum Dafou, graduating with a bachelor’s of public affairs and policy management, says he’s excited to be done and ready to head out into the workforce to make a difference. He’s staying hopeful to find a job.

“It’s difficult but thankfully, I feel like I’ve gained enough skills in my program and work experience, so I feel like between that and the connections I’ve made that I’ll be able to weather the storm,” said Defou.

Thousands of university and college students from around country are getting ready to graduate this month, heading into a tough job market.

“I hope I’m going to find one soon. All positive vibes,” said Ololabe Farombi, Carleton university graduate.

Farombi did her master’s in economics and is excited to reach this point.

“It was a lot of tension. Like the exams, sleepless nights. Oh, my God, I’m happy I’m done. Honestly,” said Farombi.

• Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App