Letter from the Editor

Despite the fact that the country is undergoing an economic recession and unemployment is at its highest level in recent decades, qualified and skilled employees in the healthcare industry are still in high demand.  The healthcare industry is one field experiencing job growth and it is anticipated to stay the course through the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  That is great news for the approximate 271 graduates who have received diplomas in the first six months of 2009.  (Nearly 700 SMU students are expected to receive diplomas this year, according to the Registrar's Office.  Click on graduation to view numbers.) 

The University continues to offer degree programs that will prepare prospective healthcare employees to meet those demands.  The Office of Admission says SMU will likely experience continued gains in enrollment due not only to the increase in demand for trained healthcare professionals, but also because of the school's educational focus on health sciences.  The University continues to be the largest source of NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) eligible graduate nurses in the state of California, and most of the programs perform above the national licensure/certificate pass rates.  (Click on Certification and Licensure to view results.)  

Media reports claim physical therapy and nursing as two of the five high demand fields where work will be found in 2009.  Audrey Berman, PhD, RN, Dean and Professor, School of Nursing (SoN), says marketable skills set from a recognized, accredited institution, like SMU, will help place graduates at the top of the employment list. 

"Upon graduation some students may face stiff competition from the growing ranks of the unemployed, from those forced out of retirement or delaying it because of the collapsing stock market, and from graduates of past years who are still searching for jobs in their chosen field," says Dean Berman.  "But when Bay Area healthcare agencies hear that a student has a degree from Samuel Merritt University, his or her application is viewed very competitively because they know the quality of the graduate's skills."

Confronted by a prolonged recession and a rising 8.5 percent unemployment rate, the highest US rate in a quarter-century, some students say they are 'anxious,' but 'confident' that they will find work in their field quickly.

"I've received several emails from employers asking if I am interested in a job," says Vinnie Cheung, Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT), 2009 graduate.  "With only three schools offering occupational therapy programs in Northern California, I feel confident that I will find a job here in the Bay Area."

"I'm also confident that I will find a job before the end of the year despite the fact the Bay Area has hit its capacity when it comes to new nurses.  I am looking for a position in Southern California," says Angela Delgatto, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), 2009 graduate.  "Fortunately this is not a shock to any of us graduating this year.  I feel the (nursing) faculty has prepared and reassured us that we have entered a profession that is in high demand and will be for years to come."

The Graduating Class of 2009, SMU Commencement May 22, 2009

To ease student concern about finding employment after graduation, in a tough economic climate, SMU has been aggressive in its marketing and recruitment activities.  The University is expanding its participation in local health and economic conferences, communicating its achievements, and aggressively promoting stories about students and faculty contributions to community services.

In this Summer edition of eNews, we begin with a special tribute to Gerri Adams, a remarkable woman whose positive view on life touched everyone she knew.  Then discover why admission recruiters are called 'Road Warriors,' how SMU is helping Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums promote access to healthcare, and what some people are doing to promote diversity and how you can help.  We'll also introduce you to the new 'Sammy' family, who is lending support and resources outside the community, and learn about how far students will travel to attend SMU. 

As we continue to broaden our communications by showcasing innovative, educational programs and demonstrating the work we do inside and outside of the SMU community, ideas or suggestions for future eNews articles are always welcome.

Thank you.

Elizabeth Valente
Associate Director of Publications & Media Relations
Editor, eNEWS
evalente@samuelmerritt.edu

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