I think there's a couple of issues. First, there's probably a bias on the part of graduates to take a job with what they perceive to be a safe, secure company t

I think there's a couple of issues. First, there's probably a bias on the part of graduates to take a job with what they perceive to be a safe, secure company that will look good on their CV. I think that tendency is a cultural thing here in the UK - there's more of a tendency for people here to work for companies for their entire career and, hence, there's traditionally been a cachet attached to working for big companies. That's something that's likely to change over time, though. Another factor is likely to be a bias on the part of universities towards building relationships with larger employers who are seen as prestigious. An unheard-of startup won't garner anywhere near the interest and attention of a large, well-known company.