Pomona College Grads Thrive: A Look at Emerging Career Trends
Recent data from Pomona College’s First Destination Report reveals a strong post-graduation trajectory for the Class of 2025, with 90% engaged in meaningful activities within six months of receiving their degrees. This success isn’t just about landing any job; it’s about a shift in where liberal arts graduates are finding opportunities and the skills they’re leveraging.
The Rise of Liberal Arts in Unexpected Fields
Traditionally, a liberal arts education has been seen as a pathway to careers in education, the arts, or public service. However, the report highlights a significant trend: 17% of Pomona graduates are entering management consulting and financial services. This demonstrates the increasing value employers place on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills – hallmarks of a liberal arts curriculum.
David Arias ’25, now an investment banking analyst with Wells Fargo, credits the Career Development Office (CDO) with helping him navigate this transition. His experience underscores the importance of career services in bridging the gap between academic study and professional application.
Beyond Employment: Fellowships and Further Education
The Class of 2025 isn’t solely focused on immediate employment. Graduates are also pursuing advanced degrees at prestigious institutions like Harvard, Oxford, Princeton, and Stanford. The class secured 41 fellowships, including a Rhodes Scholarship – Pomona’s first since 2003, awarded to Shark Mutulili ’25.
This emphasis on continued learning and prestigious fellowships suggests a commitment to long-term career development and a desire to contribute to research, and innovation.
Civic Engagement and Real-World Impact
Pomona’s Sagehen Civic Scholar program is preparing students for impactful careers in public service. Emma Grace Howlett ’25, who transitioned from a congressional internship to a role as a legislative intern in the U.S. Senate, exemplifies this. She utilizes skills honed through her history degree and thesis work – writing, critical thinking, and research – in her daily tasks.
This highlights the relevance of a liberal arts education in addressing complex societal challenges and contributing to informed policymaking.
The NIH Connection: A Growing Opportunity
Several Pomona graduates are finding opportunities within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH RePORTER shows funding to institutions like Pomona College. This suggests a growing demand for skilled professionals in biomedical research and public health.
The NIH also provides resources for bioethics education, as demonstrated by faculty affiliations with the Department of Bioethics at the NIH Clinical Center and Pomona College.
Future Trends: Adaptability and Lifelong Learning
The success of Pomona’s Class of 2025 points to several key trends that will likely shape the future of higher education and career development:
- Increased demand for soft skills: Employers will continue to prioritize critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
- Interdisciplinary approaches: Graduates with the ability to connect knowledge from different fields will be highly sought after.
- The importance of experiential learning: Internships, fellowships, and civic engagement opportunities will become increasingly crucial for career preparation.
- Lifelong learning: The rapid pace of change will require individuals to continuously update their skills and knowledge.
FAQ
Q: What percentage of Pomona graduates are employed within six months of graduation?
A: 90% of the Class of 2025 are engaged in career activities within six months of graduating.
Q: What are some of the top industries employing Pomona graduates?
A: Management consulting and financial services are significant industries, representing 17% of the top destinations.
Q: Does Pomona College offer career support services?
A: Yes, the Career Development Office provides comprehensive support to students.
Q: What is the Sagehen Civic Scholar program?
A: It’s an internship program that builds connections between Pomona students and the City of Claremont.
Did you know? Pomona College secured its first Rhodes Scholarship since 2003 with Shark Mutulili ’25.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the value of networking and building relationships with professionals in your field of interest.
Interested in learning more about career paths for liberal arts graduates? Explore the First Destination Report and discover how Pomona College is preparing students for success.
