Communication is key in the placement process. Students and employers should know what you are doing and why it is important for them to provide you with the information. Having a process to collect the data is important. You do not want to have the data compromised. You also need to pay close attention to detail when transferring data between systems.

Calculating placement rates can be done in several ways. Each institution needs to have a documented process on how the rate is calculated. This can ensure consistency between departments and individuals. The survey is the least reliable source.

This session has given me several items to think about.

• How do Universities actually use employment data in their decisions? Are they offering programs and majors in fields where students can be employed after graduation. Should some programs/majors be re-vamped or discontinued?
• Are students going to be able to pay back the student loans they take out to secure their education? Will it be a financial hardship? Will their salaries be high enough to cover their lifestyle?
• Are people pursuing jobs they are passionate about or are they pursuing a job because of a paycheck.