Welcome to Recruit U's special graduation issue-this one is dedicated to all those fall graduates who have left the safety of their campuses for the no-holds-barred reality of the marketplace.

Until this issue, I've written about industries thriving even in uncertain economic times. Now Recruit U is featuring careers and advice for students looking to enter the fields of education and business/management. Those preparing for a career in the classroom could face stiff competition in larger, more popular districts, which get thousands of applications each year. Students of business and commerce may face even more roadblocks.

Faculty and staff at some of Georgia's best business and management programs are optimistic their students will find work, despite having heard from companies there may be fewer job and internship openings this year.

In today's job market, it's more important than ever students do all they can to make themselves marketable. As a student, you can still have an edge over other candidates if you make the most of your up-to-date training, enthusiasm for your field and opportunities for experience and leadership that exist on your campus. Check out our Graduation Checklist for seniors on page 18 to make sure you're doing all you can to secure a job after school.

This special issue also offers advice for aspiring educators and looks at how non-ed majors can become tomorrow's teachers, thanks to Georgia's effort to recruit potential educators from other fields through alternative route programs. (Page 23)

We've also talked with people helping students prepare for successful careers in the business sector. Jobs may be fewer, but the odds still favor smart, innovative business students who use their time in college wisely by building their resumes and diversifying their job search (page 12 ).

Career consultants for University of Georgia's Terry College of Business the Top 10 ways to succeed in any economy-use this as a road map for planning your job search now to give yourself the best chances of finding a good job after graduation.

Whatever the market may bring, you can thrive if you plan your path early and use the resources available to you as a college student. We are happy Recruit U Magazine is part of the support available for students willing and ready to start that journey now.