Employers expect to hire 22 percent fewer college graduates on a national scale from the class of 2009 than they hired from the class of 2008, according to a study conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers,

The deteriorating economic situation is the catalyst for the anticipated decline in hiring, according to a press release issued by NACE.

John Thompson, executive director of Career Services, said the strain on jobs has affected students on campus graduating in 2009 as well.

“There is no doubt that it takes more time to get a job,” Thompson said. “Last year you may have only had to go to four or five employers before you got a job. It may have only taken you thirty days or four or five weeks. This year because of the job market you may have to go see 50 employers, and it may take you as long as three or four months to really get a job.”

Nate Arnold, a senior business information systems and advertising/public relations major, said the economy has prompted him to pursue his job prospects with increased vigor.

“I’m definitely worried,” Arnold said. “Especially for advertising; it’s not a great outlook for jobs.”

Arnold said he plans on moving to New York to pursue a career in marketing.

“That’s where all the new jobs in that area are, so I’m feeling a little more confident about that,” Arnold said.

The strain on jobs has caused many of his friends to take jobs they wouldn’t have considered earlier, he said.

“It’s definitely made me work so much harder,” Arnold said. “I never take a contact for granted. Now, if anyone says anything about helping me or knowing someone I follow it up.”

Esther Lee, a senior fashion merchandising major, said she has been searching for a job since January.

“I don’t think I’m as stressed out as most people because I have several backup options in my head,” Lee said. “I’ve always wanted to join the Peace Corps, and so that was one thing that I’ve applied to, and I can always interview for that if I want.”

Thompson said many students have been adapting to the stringent job market by lowering their standards on which jobs to consider.

“Economic necessity does funny things to you,” Thompson said. “You are able to look at opportunities that you hadn’t looked at before.”