Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by recent graduates in securing employment, highlighting the impact of AI on entry-level jobs and questioning the value of a college degree in today's job market [2][7]. Summary by Sections Employment Landscape - This year marks one of the toughest job markets for graduates, with concerns that AI may replace many entry-level positions [2]. - Graduates are increasingly questioning the return on investment of a college degree, especially given the rising costs of education [2]. University Rankings and Career Success - LinkedIn released a list of the top 50 universities in the U.S. for long-term career success, with Princeton, Duke, and the University of Pennsylvania topping the list [2][3]. - The article emphasizes that the value of higher education is declining, urging graduates to consider the long-term career returns of their degrees [2]. Ranking Criteria - The LinkedIn ranking is based on five equal-weighted metrics: 1. Employment placement rates for graduates from 2019 to 2024 [4]. 2. Internship and recruitment demand among recent graduates [4]. 3. Proportion of graduates achieving career success, including entrepreneurship and executive roles [5]. 4. Strength of alumni networks and connections [5]. 5. Breadth of knowledge and unique skills acquired by graduates [6]. Notable Findings - Some prestigious institutions, like Columbia and Yale, ranked lower than expected, while lesser-known schools like Bentley University and Bucknell University performed well [6]. - The article highlights that achieving career success does not necessarily require attending elite universities, as schools with strong internship programs and alumni networks can also provide significant advantages [6]. Skills in Demand - There is a growing demand for AI skills in the job market, with business leaders advocating for enhanced computer science and AI education for students [7][8]. - The article notes that without these skills, students risk becoming part of the "three no" demographic: not in school, not trained, and not employed [7]. Graduate Outcomes - For example, 93% of graduates from Bucknell University secured employment within nine months of graduation, with an average starting salary of $73,075 [6].

Group 1 - The core finding of the CFA Institute's survey indicates that Hong Kong graduates are confident about their job prospects, with 87% expressing confidence, surpassing the global average of 81% [1] - Financial services remain the top industry preference for Hong Kong graduates, with 46% expressing confidence in this sector, a significant increase from 28% in 2024 [1] - There is a notable rise in confidence regarding STEM positions, with 22% of Hong Kong graduates feeling optimistic, compared to just 6% last year [1] Group 2 - 90% of Hong Kong graduates understand employer needs, which is higher than the global average of 83% [2] - The top three skills perceived to enhance competitiveness are soft skills (66%), AI skills (56%), and quantitative analysis (50%) [2] - There is a decline in the perceived importance of networking (27% in 2025 vs. 34% in 2024) and internship experience (17% in 2025 vs. 34% in 2024), indicating a shift towards quantifiable practical skills [2] Group 3 - Despite their confidence, 82% of Hong Kong graduates recognize that AI and automation will increase job search difficulties, significantly higher than the global average of 67% [3] - The two main concerns regarding job searching are AI screening systems (22%) and disruptions caused by AI/automation (21%) [3] - Professional certification is highly valued, with 98% of Hong Kong graduates believing that further education and obtaining professional qualifications are crucial for career development [3]