AI Disrupts Entry-Level Jobs: Class of 2025 Faces 5.8% Unemployment

The class of 2025 is facing a challenging job market, with unemployment rates for recent graduates hitting a high of 5.8% in the first quarter of 2025. This is partly attributed to the rise of artificial intelligence, which is increasingly automating tasks traditionally performed by entry-level workers. Aneesh Raman, LinkedIn's chief economic opportunity officer, comments, "Entry-level jobs…are breaking down a bit." He suggests that companies need to adapt, citing examples like KPMG assigning higher-level tax work to new graduates and Macfarlanes Law Firm in the UK focusing on complex contract interpretation for early-career lawyers. Raman advises graduates to focus on AI fluency and adaptable skills, emphasizing that "careers are no longer ladders." He encourages a "today plan" rather than a long-term career path, given the rapid changes in the job market. The segment ends on a positive note, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the class of 2025 and the evolving role of AI in the workplace.