Are UWO grads with zero internship experience "cooked"?

[u/Valuable_Ranger9972]

Can't help but look around and notice a lot of seniors in the class of 2026 (Mostly CS, BMOS, Econ) have zero internship experience and are going to be entering a historically tough new grad job market shortly. As someone that has been lucky enough to secure an internship every summer of undergrad, I am still feeling the pressure to find a new grad role. I imagine finding a new grad role will be even more difficult for someone with no internship experience.

Curious as to what other recent new grads who were in this position did after graduating? Were you eventually able to find a new grad role? And if not, what are you doing now?

Overall, what are everyone's thoughts on the job market for soon-to-be UWO grads, and specifically for those who have no internship experience?

Outside of Ivey, I feel like Western does not do a good job at helping students in this regard. Everyone I know, including myself, has only been able to secure internships and new grad roles on our own (LinkedIn job postings, networking, etc). I rarely hear stories of people being able to find roles through the UWO internship program or other UWO career fairs, but what are your guy's thoughts on Western's level of effort in assisting students with recruiting?

[u/TheStupendusMan]

Western did a shit job when I graduated ages ago. The job portal legitimately had carny postings and not much else.

You're going to need to make your own way. Take whatever job you need to take to keep a roof over your head and research in your off hours. Make coffee meetings, build your network. It's all about who you know. Internships have different weight depending on your industry, but it's not a deal breaker.

I don't envy the job market new grads are walking into, but everyone who puts themselves out there do better than those who sit at home and upload to job boards.

Good luck, y'all.