Career Outcomes

What is the First Destination Survey?

The First Destination Survey, or FDS, is a national survey organized by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Implemented by colleges and universities across the country, the goal of the survey is to collect information related to the post-graduation outcomes of recent graduates within six months of graduation.

Why is Emerson College participating in the FDS?

As part of our dedication to your continued growth and achievement, the Career Development Center conducts the First Destination Survey for each graduating class.The FDS celebrates post-graduation successes and aids in advertising and supporting students still seeking opportunities. Regardless of a student’s situation, the data empowers us all to advocate for their success.

What is NACE’s role in the FDS?

NACE provides  minimum standards and best practices for colleges and universities to use in their implementation of the survey. NACE also provides a  centralized clearinghouse for national trends and other data  informed by survey participation.

What is Emerson’s role in the FDS?

The Career Development Center is responsible for administering the FDS to students. This includes promotion of the survey and ensuring a high knowledge rate (minimum of 65%), data collection, initial data analysis, and reporting for the national data collection effort.

How are students encouraged to complete the FDS?

The Career Development Center promotes FDS completion through senior appointments, automated emails, and outreach from faculty and staff. Your information will be shared anonymously in external reports, excluding internal Emerson colleagues.

If you are a recent graduate, please check your Emerson email to complete the survey or click here and share your post graduation plans with the Emerson College community. Please contact careers@emerson.edu or 617-824-8586 if you have any questions or need help accessing the survey. 

What if a student hasn’t gotten a job or into graduate school yet?

That’s fine! Even if students haven’t secured a job or graduate school acceptance, completing the survey is crucial. The Career Development Center assists students in finding opportunities post-graduation. Contact career@emerson.edu to schedule a session with a counselor.If you have any queries or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Career Development Center at careers@emerson.edu or 617-824-8586. Your success is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way!