While higher education credentials in Canada correlate with higher earnings, better benefits, and other markers of quality employment, they do not guarantee a smooth transition into the job market. A report by Ontario’s Higher Education Quality Council (HEQCO), titled Navigating the Transition From School to Work: The Impact of Career Development Activities and Services on Graduate Labour Market Outcomes, surveyed 271 recent bachelor’s degree graduates in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and found that experiential learning, industry-specific resources, and networking are the most critical factors in securing successful employment.
I The Power of Experiential Learning
Experiential learning extends beyond traditional internships and co-op programs to include work-integrated learning, field placements, applied research, and other hands-on opportunities. These initiatives connect students directly with employers and professionals, laying the groundwork for career networks. Key findings include:
83% of graduates who participated in experiential learning secured jobs in their field, compared to 59% of non-participants.
72% of respondents ranked experiential learning as the second-most valuable activity (after paid work) for preparing them for the labour market.
II. Networking: A Catalyst for Career Success
Social networks—including family, friends, professors, alumni, and industry contacts—provide channels for information-sharing, mentorship, and career guidance, significantly improving job-matching efficiency. The data reveals:
Graduates who leveraged networks had lower unemployment rates (13% vs. 24%) and were more likely to work in roles related to their studies (80% vs. 55%).
74% of network users expressed satisfaction with their current jobs, versus 48% of non-users.
52% felt their roles aligned with career expectations, compared to 37% of those who did not engage in networking.
III. Challenges in Utilising Campus Career Services
Despite 60% of graduates being aware of campus career support services, only 33% actively used them. Reasons for non-engagement included:
40% believed services were “unnecessary.”
40% deeming services “ineffective.”
19% aavoidservices due to social anxiety.
Most valued resources:
Mock interviews (72%)
Resume workshops (71%)
Technical skill training (69%)
Less impactful services:
Career counselling (43%)
Undergraduate thesis support (51%)
IV. Recommendations for Stakeholders
Expand Experiential Learning: Governments, higher education institutions, and employers must invest i diverse, discipline-aligned experiential opportunities for all students.
Enhance Career Services: Develop practical, industry-driven resources (e.g., AI-powered job-matching tools) and improve awareness of existing supports.
Address Utilisation Gaps: Tackle barriers such as social anxiety through tailored outreach and low-pressure engagement strategies.
Source: Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario (HEQCO), October 2024
Ran Ran, Research Institute for International and Comparative Education, Shanghai Normal University
