College graduates are among the victims of a 9.6 percent na­tional unemployment rate in the United States.

However, studies show that by taking advantage of intern­ships and career services, stu­dents can find a job and bring relief.

A survey at St. Edward’s Uni­versity, located in Austin, Texas finds almost half of its graduates are unemployed.

Data collected between Au­gust 2009 and August 2010 re­ported that 42 percent of gradu­ates are employed, 41 percent are looking for a job, 15 percent are enrolled in graduate school and two percent are of “other” status.

Further investigation finds that many students who visited the campus’ Career Services and did multiple internships have had more success finding a job after graduation.

At ULM, a Career Connec­tions office is located on the third floor of the library. There, students can talk with counsel­ors who will help them locate an internship or part time job.Stu­dents can also find the Career Connections link on the ULM homepage and fill out applica­tions online.

John Rodriguez, a professor in mass communications, as­sures his students that interning is more than credit hours, it is resume experience.

“I can assure my students that employers look for real-world experience in whatever particu­lar field a person is applying for a job. The student with that real-world experience, a solid degree, and portfolio pieces will al­ways have the edge,” Rodri­guez said.

Andrew Barber, a construc­tion management major from Baton Rouge, is due to gradu­ate at the end of this semester. The job market is somewhat of a concern.

“I have a job lined up for after graduation right now and am extremely fortunate to. I would be really nervous if I didn’t,” Barber said.