Even in an era of downsizing and scaling back, business students nationwide haven't lost hope.
Business students around the world share an optimistic view of the opportunities ahead of them, according to a recent survey by New York accounting firm Coopers & Lybrand.
The survey questioned 1,200 business students from 30 leading universities and 10 different countries.
Results showed that regardless of national boundaries, students share many of the same beliefs concerning the growth of the economy.
Brent Inman, the National Director of Recruitment for Coopers & Lybrand, said students are especially interested in seeking opportunities overseas, and maintaining a balance between business and pleasure.
"A key thing that was very revealing was this generation of students are very interested in international opportunities," said Brent Inman, National Director of Recruitment for Coopers & Lybrand. "(And) personal life was just as important as the student's careers."
Edward Snyder, associate dean at the University's School of Business, said the survey is consistent with University graduates' succeses.
"Students have very high-quality job opportunities," Snyder said. "The University offers a different and diverse MBA program."
Snyder said the business world has expanded into a global economy.
"There has been a turnaround in the business world," Synder said. "When a student goes and gets a job outside the U.S., they are not just a U.S. businessperson. They are a global businessperson going to work where there are opportunities."
Many business students predicted that business endeavors will have more influence on the world's future than politics.
"Many believe companies will take a front seat," Synder said. "I don't think we are necessarily displacing government. I expect business will take a greater role in the future."
Michael Lambert, who is pursuing his Masters of Business Administration degree at the University, said good job prospects are a reality for him and his classmates.
"A good number of us graduating with MBAs already have jobs," Lambert said. "Those classmates who do not already have jobs I am certain will get one soon."
MBA student Mitchell Goodman said the business world thinks very highly of the University's School of Business.
"The University's reputation is growing," Goodman said. "The school is a collaborative environment that teaches you managing skills, with a focus on people skills."
Synder said the market is expanding, with more opportunities than there used to be.
"It's remarkable how fast and dynamic and less bureaucratic ... the economy has become," Synder said.