An exploration of the school-to-work transition for university graduates in northern Ontario: a qualitative case study

White, Dawn (2017) An exploration of the school-to-work transition for university graduates in northern Ontario: a qualitative case study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This research study examined the school-to-work transition for Algoma University graduates in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, using a qualitative case study approach. The research explored the experiences of university graduates from the past ten years as well as service providers who directly support the transition in order to better understand the school –to-work transition in a Northern Ontario context. Understanding the school-to-work transition in a Northern Ontario context is significant as the region struggles with population decline, youth outmigration, an aging population, and large fluctuations in employment, all of which potentially contribute to challenges for university graduates as they transition to the labour market. The researcher conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with 27 participants and examined themes that emerged from the data. Five major themes emerged in the study: (a) preparation in curriculum; (b) work experience; (c) expectation clash; (d) networking; and, (e) soft skills. The findings demonstrate a) the importance of situating career preparedness within the curriculum; (b) the importance of work experience; (c) there are multiple factors that influence the expectations of recent graduates; and, (d) the importance of networking and networks in a Northern Ontario context.

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