A Rising Number Of Hispanics In LA Seek Business Degrees
Nurtured in part by a higher birth rate, Hispanics are fast becoming momentous contributors to the labor market, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the next five years, this career-driven ethnic group is projected to consume 19 percent of the nation's workforce, rising to 30 percent by 2050. Nearly half of Los Angeles County's current population is composed of Hispanics or Latinos, with a growing number of young adults striving for business degrees.
"Most of our students come from somewhat disadvantaged economic backgrounds and many are the first in their family to attend college," said Dr. James Goodrich, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). "Thus, we have to work extra hard to create opportunities for our graduates, and get them thinking, right from the time they enter, about what they are going to do with their degree."
The veteran professor said it is advantageous for minorities within indiscriminate ethnic demographics to pursue a four-year degree in business.
"L.A. is a global business hub with many opportunities for students from a variety of cultural backgrounds," said Goodrich, who earned his Ph.D. in management from UCLA. "Companies serve diverse customers and are looking to add diversity to their workforce."
In what way has the need for minority business professionals progressed since 2010?
"There is a huge number of minority-owned businesses in L.A., with significant ethnic markets and networking opportunities in the melting pot of this large urban area."
How is CSULA helping prepare minorities for a business-related vocation?
"We have our own placement office which concentrates on creating jobs and internships for our students."
What is CSULA doing to help minority business graduates become more employable?
"We offer information sessions with employer panels, resume and interview workshops, and mentorship initiatives, utilizing our alumni."
What is your advice to minorities seeking a career in the business field?
"I encourage them to set the bar higher and look for the best job, not just the easiest to get. They must always have a 'plan B' in case their first choice does not work out."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
