From Classroom to Careers

Class of 2024’s First Destinations report finds 95% of graduates were either employed or continuing their education just nine months after leaving Washington College.

The energy and promise of a Washington College commencement are always palpable, a moment where years of dedication culminate in a turning point. For last spring's graduates, that turning point has led to early success. The recently released First Destinations Report for the Class of 2024 captured the post-graduation activities of the class and reveals a remarkable 95% are actively engaged in employment or furthering their education since leaving campus. The report reflects an impressive 96% of respondents from last year's 209 graduates.

The report highlights that 75% of respondents secured full-time or part-time employment across a diverse range of sectors, the highest rate in the last 5 years for the College. Employed graduates accepted positions in 20 states and the District of Columbia, as well as several international locations including Australia, Japan, and Africa.

Several businesses are employing multiple 2024 graduates including national powerhouses like JPMorgan Chase & Co and local institutions like Echo Hill Outdoor School, which is deeply intertwined with the College. Other national organizations like AmeriCorps and FEMA underscore the graduates' commitment to service in their new careers, while the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, several states' Parks and Recreations departments, and the National Institutes of Health showcase graduates' readiness for roles in crucial public and scientific domains.

The successful transition into the workforce is a direct result of the experiential learning ethos deeply embedded in the Washington College culture. From immersive internships and externships to hands-on research opportunities and community engagement projects, students are actively applying their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. This experiential learning not only hones their skills but also provides invaluable networking opportunities. Indeed, the 2024 report found that a significant 33% of employed graduates secured their positions through connections made via alumni, the College's Center for Career Development, faculty, staff, or their internship/externship experiences.

Beyond immediate employment, the pursuit of knowledge continues for 20% of the Class of 2024, who have embarked on advanced studies, boasting acceptance into several esteemed institutions like the University of Maryland, Georgetown Law, American University, Johns Hopkins University, and Temple University. Whether pursuing master's degrees, professional programs in health or law, or doctoral programs, these graduates are equipped to excel in the next chapter of their intellectual journeys.

"The Washington College career center provides resources, tools, and programming to prepare students for meaningful professional lives and supports college-to-career transitions," said Nanette Cooley, the center's executive director. "Our center takes a holistic approach to career development focused on self-assessment, career exploration, and skills development."

This comprehensive support system, woven into the fabric of the Washington College experience, empowers students to identify their passions, develop essential skills, and confidently navigate the complexities of the job market. Cooley also emphasized the adaptability of Washington College graduates in a constantly evolving workforce.

"As the workforce continues to evolve, our graduates are successful navigating the changing landscape," she noted. "Washington College provides the foundation on which essential skills and competencies, valued by today's employers, are developed to address the needs of a changing global economy."

The First Destinations Report for the Class of 2024 offers compelling evidence of Washington College's success in fulfilling its mission: to provide a transformative liberal arts education that prepares graduates for lives of purpose and consequence. The impressive statistics, coupled with the stories they represent, highlight the powerful impact of experiential learning and dedicated career support in launching graduates onto pathways of meaningful employment and continued academic achievement. The dedication to student success extends far beyond graduation day. The Center for Career Development remains a vital resource for alumni, offering continued support as they explore new opportunities and navigate their career paths. This ongoing commitment underscores Washington College's belief in fostering lifelong learning and professional growth.

As these alumni embark on their diverse journeys across 20 states, the District of Columbia, and even internationally, they carry with them the foundation, skills, and connections cultivated within the supportive and challenging environment of Washington College – ready to make their mark on the world.

- Dominique Ellis Falcon