Amidst the flurry of headlines brazenly exclaiming the national sixth form exam results, I read a statistic which contradicted my general perception of the current graduate climate. While the ongoing recession and economic problems are constantly echoed in the media and other platforms inn an attempt to affect the national consciousness and push us relentlessly into a state of glum depression, there have been a variety of reasons for people to exchange their frowns for a smile.<br/><br/>In the wake of the 'Greatest Ever' Olympic Games (completely impartial statement obviously) people are managing to find a reason to smile, and I personally have found one big reason to flash my Cheshire chops. Niki Chesworth of the Metro published figures that demonstrate that one in ten graduates are unemployed six months after graduation. While this may sound grim to those of the 'half glass full' persuasion, I happen to see this piece of evidence as a glimmer of hope for our disaffected youth and graduate population.<br/><br/>One in ten just isn't that bad. I'm more likely to choke on a piece of unchewed dinner than find myself totally jobless six months after I finish uni. In fact, there was only a slim one in five chance that I wouldn't be born Chinese! This encouraging stat also must be considered having acknowledged the fact that many graduates pursue alternative routes into employment which may only pay off long after six months. I'm not saying we're all going to be drowning in job offers and piles of cold hard cash any time soon; I'm just saying, let's not all get too down about this recession malarkey. While events such as the libor scandal and the hacking trials might suggest that England is rather like a dysfunctional teenager, there are small suggestions that, just like fine country cheddar cheese, we may in fact be maturing as a nation. The Olympics has perfectly showcased the sense of pride this small island is able to stimulate in its people and our recent sporting success is hopefully a precursor to a less uncertain and more optimistic future. Will we soon be full of hope again? Hopefully.<br/><br/>Tom, GRB Journalist
