12/20/13 kb
Contacts with 1,241 Fort Hays State University graduates from the 2012-2013 academic year found a "success rate" -- placement in a job or enrolled in advanced study -- of 95 percent, according to a report from the university's Office of Career Services.

Career Services contacts all FHSU graduates inside the United States within six months of graduation. The 1,241 figure includes Virtual College, on-campus students, and associate and undergraduate degree students. Not included in the percentage are Virtual College graduates from China and other nations.

This placement rate for FHSU graduates continues the success of recent years. The placement rate was also 95 percent in 2011-2012; 94 percent in 2010-11; 94 percent in 2009-10; 95 percent in 2008-09; 98 percent in 2007-08; 98 percent in 2006-07; 98 percent in 2005-06; 98 percent in 2004-05; 98 percent in 2003-04; 98 percent in 2002-03; 98 percent in 2001-02; 99 percent in 2000-01; and 99 percent in 1999-2000.

Of the 2012-13 graduates, 844 are working in their major fields and 171 are continuing their education. Another 97 reported being employed outside their majors, 63 were still seeking employment and 29 were not seeking employment.

Geographic employment data show that 161 are working in Ellis County, 341 are employed in western Kansas, 152 are employed in other Kansas regions, and 287 are working out-of-state.

The annual survey is conducted by the Office of Career Services. The office assists FHSU students in acquiring the skills necessary for a successful job search and provides information about available jobs. It also assists students who are seeking admission to graduate school.

Career Services Office staff uses phone, mail and e-mail surveys and then turns to faculty, alumni, fraternity or sorority contacts, families, neighbors, and various other sources to find the employment or study status of almost all graduates.