<p>Imo, the difference between being an underemployed college graduate versus an employed high school graduate doing the same job is the opportunity for advancement up the ladder the college graduate has versus the high school graduate. Many from my generation (grad college mid-70’s) started out in lowly positions, too. My cousin’s husband, for example started his career behind the counter at a rent-a car branch and 30 some odd years later is now Sr. Vice President of their whole N. American operations. Or my husband, who after graduate school started as a budget examiner for the State of NY and now is a Director of an state agency. Doesn’t happen overnight and never did!</p>
<p>I know many recent grads who have had to take jobs paying only an hourly wage, but because the were smart and ambitious found the way to advance either where they started or elsewhere. All it takes is a willingness on their part to look for and then go after the opportunities to advance.</p>