Employability in the recession
One of the troubles my own brother suffered from when he recently graduated from university was "being overqualified" for the jobs he was applying for. Considering he got a first-class degree in engineering, I can see why he may seem overqualified; bosses worrying that he could end up taking their jobs, but being refused for a job for being overqualified is ridiculous. You're should be either qualified or not, a Boolean value; yes or no.
Having the relevant IT skills should be relatively straight forward for students, you would have thought. My housemate struggled with computers before he came to university but has since learned how to download YouTube videos, search the web for files and documents, and even use cloud computing. Even his typing speed has increased by tenfold.
On the other hand, saying you can use a computer and perform a series of functions and applications doesn't go anywhere unless you have a qualification in it. Many universities offer the European Computer Driving Licence, which show the employer you can use a computer to high standards and perform multiple important tasks designed for the workplace.
Many still don't know about the student union aspect of university life. What's important to remember is not only do the union support you if you get into financial difficulty but also represent you whilst you are studying. Student unions don't appear to be a major part of student life in the US, from the research I have done, but especially in the UK and Europe, having a student union there is incredibly important.
Getting a job with the union should be relatively easy - especially considering they should be always looking for new positions and ever expanding to different areas. IT jobs within the unions should be a major player now as much of the union life goes on Facebook and events are advertised electronically. Having experience in the workplace is highly important for graduates as experience can sometimes speak louder than a degree.