The majority of students graduating this summer are worried a recession would see them struggle to find work despite news that fears of a recession are yet to have a major impact on graduate job prospects

Personnel Today reports a study of more than 300 of 2008’s future graduates revealed 59 percent are concerned about their future.

They fear a weakening economy would result in fewer jobs being available upon graduation while more than two-thirds said that they had yet to find a job and a third said they would be graduating with student loans totalling more than £15,000.

However, just 17 percent said they would compromise their personal job demands to find work.

As part of the survey, the students also rated the most important attributes they look for in an employer. They were salary, interesting and challenging work, camaraderie with colleagues, formal training and flexible hours.

Peter Cheese of Accenture said: "Generation Y is entering the workforce with strong values and demands that employers haven't had to address with previous generations. To be relevant to these jobseekers, employers must find ways to satisfy their needs for balance, fun, mentoring and opportunities to grow and be challenged."