Letter of the Day - A job seeker's tale

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I WRITE today with a sense of frustration and disillusionment. I can remember attending primary school and later high school (hats off to those hardworking and dedicated teachers at Pembroke Hall Primary and Ardenne High Schools) where I was taught that a good education is the key to success. But alas! Is this a myth in Jamaica?

I was rudely awakened to this fact after being successful in 10 CXC subjects in high school and not being considered for a summer job, after several applications. However, I conceded that I needed to be even more qualified for the job market. So I studied hard and attained three 'A' level subjects with distinction (all A's). Here I go again! No job offers! Not even for the summer! One employer gave me a call and after a week I left as I was asked to fill his prescription at the pharmacy, pick up his shoes at the shoemaker, buy his lunch, and did not even go near his computer as he had promised.

After encouragement from friends and family I went to the University of the West Indies. I got financial help from the Student Loans Bureau (no easy task) and have now completed my first-degree (Economics), receiving a first class honours.

Armed with these accomplishments I have not received a single job offer. I have made countless applications and I keep hearing; we are sorry but....or we have placed your application on file. Will someone please tell me how to get a job in Jamaica! I have no one to 'pull strings' for me. What should I do? Are mediocrity, partiality and illegal activities the order of the day!

Do I have to go overseas to realise my dreams?

Thanks for Jamaica!!

I am, etc.,

DISILLUSIONED GRADUATE

Spanish Town

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