Post-Graduation Poll in Northeastern PA
The Institute for Public Policy & Economic Development regularly polls students at its 13 partnering higher education institutions. These polling and survey research efforts are part of The Institute’s menu of services offered to all types of clients. This 2021 poll assesses students’ opinions about the region and their post-graduation plans. A total of 1,980 people participated. Students from all class years, a variety of majors, and part-time and graduate students are well represented in the data. The poll was distributed online, and data was collected during February 2021.
In addition to a technical report of the findings, responses were summarized and shared publicly in the form of a brief. For instance, the latest publication details how students deciding where to launch their careers tend to prioritize the availability of jobs in their area, as well as cost of living. Additionally, those planning to stay in Northeastern Pennsylvania after graduation assign high value to a location’s proximity to family and friends, as well as its suitability to raise a family. They are less likely to value the area’s entertainment, recreation, and dining options – or its diversity and inclusiveness. Conversely, students who plan to depart the area after graduation are likelier to value diversity, inclusiveness, and entertainment, recreation, and dining options – while downplaying proximity to family and friends, along with suitability for raising families.
Furthermore, students evaluating job opportunities also prioritize starting salary along with the opportunity to make a positive impact. When asked to rank six possible factors to consider when evaluating job opportunities, students placed opportunities in their desired fields higher than any other option, with 62.4 percent placing the category first or second on their lists. In descending order, they also consider fringe benefits, desirability of location, and workplace culture. Regional internships likely affect decisions to remain in the area after graduation as well.
Read the full report here.
