Louisiana State University (LSU) is taking a new approach to help students secure employment after graduation. The university is providing various opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and connect directly with professionals in their field.

On-campus jobs, such as tour guides and postal service positions, offer students practical experience. Additionally, apps like Handshake allow students to communicate directly with employers and receive job offers.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 7.1 million people in the U.S. are unemployed, contributing to an ongoing employment gap. This issue is also present at LSU, where 58.97 percent of students have secured employment. About 19.33 percent of students are pursuing further education, leaving 20 percent still seeking jobs or in between opportunities.

To address this gap, LSU is offering several resources. The university hosts job fairs and provides student employment options, such as tour guides, teaching assistants, and more. Students also have access to career-focused apps, like Handshake and upcoming networking events.

LSU has two job fairs scheduled: one on April 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Union Ballroom, and another professional networking day for students to engage with professionals in their fields of interest.

Nawman encourages students to take full advantage of these opportunities in an effort to reduce the 20 percent unemployment rate among LSU graduates.