Employability outlook: strong
by Janelle Andreini
Will my student get a job after graduation?
In the Career Center, we hear this common—and understandable—question from the families of prospective students. Each year, our First Destination Survey helps answer that question with real outcomes. And we’re proud to share results for 2025.
Approximately 98% of surveyed Nebraska Wesleyan 2025 graduates were either employed or continuing their education in graduate or professional school within six months of graduation.
Just as encouraging: Nearly 80% of employed graduates are working in Nebraska, contributing their skills and talents to local communities and employers. These outcomes reflect not only strong academic preparation, but also intentional career development throughout students’ time at NWU.
A key contributor to our students’ success is Backpack to Briefcase, the Career Center’s signature employer networking event. Designed to be more than a traditional career fair, Backpack to Briefcase gives students the opportunity to practice professional communication, learn about hiring timelines, and begin building meaningful relationships with employers. This direct access to multiple employers in a relaxed networking environment often leads to internships and full-time job opportunities. Even students who attend “just to explore” benefit. They gain confidence, polish their resumes, and begin to understand how classroom learning translates to the world of work.
This year’s Backpack to Briefcase is 3-5 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, in the Great Hall of Smith-Curtis. We’ll welcome 40 employers from a wide range of industries.
For families, the takeaway is simple: Your student won’t navigate the transition from college to career alone. The combination of a strong liberal arts education, intentional career development, and meaningful employer engagement—especially through Backpack to Briefcase—helps position NWU graduates for success.
Janelle Andreini (’91) is assistant dean for student success and career development.