How Unprepared Are College Graduates for the World of Work?

For many college graduates, the transition from student to professional is filled with uncertainty. A degree alone no longer guarantees career success, yet so many graduates enter the workforce without essential skills in networking, workplace communication, and strategic job searching. They often struggle with imposter syndrome, lack of career direction, and the reality that the corporate world doesn’t operate like a classroom.

“Graduate to Greatness” and the ‘Graduate to Greatness Roadmap’ exist because landing a job is more than submitting résumés and hoping for the best. It requires confidence, clarity, and a plan. Through coaching, graduates learn to effectively market themselves, master interviews, and step into the workforce prepared to navigate the complexities of professional life. The real world isn’t waiting to hand you a guidebook—so why not invest in one that sets you up for success?

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Stephanie L. Herring

Executive Coach, HR & People Strategy Leader

With over 25 years of experience leading human resources, people, and culture strategy, Stephanie L. Herring is a dynamic force in the industry—an executive, coach, and trusted advisor committed to transforming workplace cultures and individual careers. As a subject matter expert in HR, business strategy, and leadership development, she has shaped the success of organizations nationwide, serving in executive roles such as Chief, Senior Vice President, and Director of Human Resources. Her work has spanned multiple industries, driving people-centric initiatives that bridge business goals with employee well-being.

Stephanie’s passion for people extends beyond boardrooms and HR strategy meetings. As the Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of PeopleFirst Coaching & Consulting Solutions, she merges her corporate expertise with her lifelong dedication to coaching. Her firm was cultivated to empower individuals at every stage of life and career—whether navigating workplace challenges, overcoming toxicity in corporate environments, exploring entrepreneurship, or transitioning from college into the workforce.

A high achiever who believes in meeting people where they are, Stephanie’s coaching approach is grounded in authenticity, resilience, and actionable strategy. She has spent decades mentoring professionals and executives, guiding them toward clarity, confidence, and success on their own terms.

Stephanie holds degrees in Journalism Communications and Secondary Education. She is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR, SHRM-CP) and a Strategic HR Business Partner (sHRBP), recognized by the Human Resources Certification Institute, Society for Human Resources Management, and Human Capital Institute. Additionally, she is a Certified Life and Career Coach, blending structured career guidance with personal empowerment.

Her leadership and impact have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the Top Admired Women Leaders in Pittsburgh by Women We Admire and receiving a C-Suite Award from the Pittsburgh Business Times—an honor she was nominated for by the workforce she served.

Stephanie’s driving philosophy is simple yet powerful: #PeopleFirst. Whether coaching individuals or shaping corporate cultures, she remains steadfast in her mission—helping others take their next authentic step forward.