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Mass firings threaten federal employment opportunities for MSU grads, students
In January 2025, over 2 million federal employees received an email titled “Fork in the Road” from the Office of Personnel Management, notifying them of drastic cuts to the federal workforce. This was part of President Trump’s efforts to shrink the federal bureaucracy. Employees were given a choice: resign and continue receiving pay and benefits until September, or stay on without job security.
One MSU graduate, who worked at the EPA, chose to stay. Despite rumors and uncertainty, she held out hope but was eventually fired on Valentine’s Day–just weeks after the program closed. She was among an estimated 200,000 federal employees let go, with 75,000 opting for the resignation deal.
This wave of firings, combined with a federal hiring freeze, has raised concerns for current MSU students seeking internships and jobs with the federal government. With fewer opportunities, students are uncertain about their career paths, especially as internships that typically lead to federal positions may no longer exist.
For students, professors recommend applying to a wider range of internships and leveraging alumni connections, while also staying informed about the shifting federal landscape. And for those laid off, like the former EPA employee, staying resilient in the job market is key–though many still hope to return to their dream roles.
Tom Izzo wins fourth Big Ten Coach of the Year as Spartans earn conference honors
In his 30th season with Michigan State, Tom Izzo has been named Big Ten Coach of the Year for the fourth time. At 70, Izzo is now the oldest recipient of this award since it was introduced in 1974. Under his leadership, the Spartans have posted a 25-5 record, clinched a Big Ten title, and had their best season since 2018-19, when they reached the Final Four.
Alongside Izzo’s recognition, senior Jaden Akins and freshman Jase Richardson earned third-team All-Big Ten honors. Akins also made the All-Defensive team, marking his first All-Big Ten selection, while Richardson made the All-Freshman team. Richardson, a projected top-10 NBA draft pick, leads the Spartans in three-point shooting with a 38.8% rate and averages 11.6 points per game.
Izzo credits his staff and players for his success, saying, “If the team has success, the individuals within the team will have success.”
Based on original reporting by Emilio Perez Ibarguen and Lucas Gentilia.
