Recent college graduates in better shape than most

College graduates may be in better shape this year than in any other year since the beginning of the recession, according to a recent report from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Specifically, respondents stated that they plan to hire 10 percent more new college graduates from the class of 2012 than they did from the class of 2011. Also, the average number of jobs posted by employers rose from 105 in 2011 to 116 in 2012. Both represent a marked increase from 2010, when employers averaged 45 postings. "Although employers haven't revised their earlier projections significantly, this upward movement, along with other positive economic indicators, (shows) that the job market for new college graduates is improving steadily," said Marilyn Mackes, NACE executive director. More available jobs for college graduates means it will become easier to pay off any student loans incurred, lessening the potential to fall behind in payments and have delinquent accounts sent to a debt collection agency. Upon graduation, financial services company Sallie Mae suggests post-grads review their loans, mark calendars for due payments, update their addresses with their loan providers, estimate monthly payments and pay early if possible.