According to Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey released Sept. 5, 2025, employment fell by 66,000 (–0.3 per cent) in August, mainly because of a drop in part-time work. The unemployment rate rose to 7.1 per cent, while employment for youth aged 15 to 24 was little changed.
Students in London, Ont., say the search for work is exhausting.
“It’s very stressful and honestly depressing,” said Mohammed Mershed a Fanshawe College student, who has sent out more than 50 resumes without a response. “You almost need a connection just to get in.”
Another student added,
”It’s certainly an issue. I myself, I barely have a job. I do part time, not have enough hours, and it’s just very difficult. It’s very competitive out there. Having more options for students would be great, especially in campus, to make it easier for us to be able to attend our classes and not have any conflicts”.
Kelsey Currie, manager of Co-op, Employment and Student Entrepreneurial Services at Fanshawe College, said youth employment numbers are “the lowest we’ve seen in a while, excluding the pandemic,” and the job market has “declined just as fast” as it bounced back after COVID.
Graduates are also struggling to find a job in their field.
Dana Mustapha, a graduate from Western University says “I graduated with a degree in MIT. I haven’t been able to find a job, I’m finding a struggle overall to find a job. Not just in my field, but other fields as well.”
Dana Mustapha, MIT-Western University Graduate
Currie, urges students not to give up:
“Don’t lose hope. Work with career consultants, take part in projects or co-op placements, build networks, and attend events like our Career Fair or Ignite Career Conference. Those steps can help you rise above and secure the employment you deserve.”
To students feeling frustrated by the job market, she adds:
“You’re certainly not alone. The job market out there is pretty tough right now, but we’re here to help whether that’s reviewing a resume, running workshops, or meeting one-on-one. Coming to see us can really make a difference.”
