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U.S. Graduates Face Toughest Job Market, AI Threatens Earnings

6/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. college graduates entering the labor market now face the toughest job conditions since the pandemic.
Economists warn the cohort will earn less over their lifetimes, experience slower career advancement, and confront AI-driven threats to entry-level knowledge jobs.
University of Rochester economist Lisa Kahn says the lasting effects will hit the current cohort, echoing research that downturn graduates have poorer long-term outcomes.

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Story summary

U.S. college graduates entering the labor market now face the toughest job conditions since the pandemic.
Economists warn the cohort will earn less over their lifetimes, experience slower career advancement, and confront AI-driven threats to entry-level knowledge jobs.
University of Rochester economist Lisa Kahn says the lasting effects will hit the current cohort, echoing research that downturn graduates have poorer long-term outcomes.