Generation Z is made up of people born between the mid-1990s through 2010. Gen Z is turning out to be a passionate generation that is acutely aware of the world around them and what they think is important. They are open-minded, politically driven and committed to global change. Here are three hot topics they care about.
Climate Change
Gen Z is future-focused, and they clearly see the need for huge environmental changes. They will inherit a world that is slated to endure severe droughts, chaotic weather patterns and global famines if drastic changes aren’t made. Thankfully, Gen Z is anxious to act and to demand action.
Young people from around the world are organizing movements and campaigns dedicated to education and action. Zero Hour is a global movement uniting youth on multiple continents as they fight for what they deserve: a healthy planet. They hold politicians responsible for their voting records, and they challenge lawmakers to rethink decisions that negatively affect our environment.
In an effort to further slow the negative effects of climate change, Gen Zers are all about going green. Alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power are at the top of their list of “must haves.” Electric cars are not a novelty but a standard that should be adopted by the masses
Education
According to a nationwide survey by Barnes and Noble College research 89 percent of Gen Z youth think a college education is important. This digital generation is tech-savvy and confident in their abilities to excel in both university studies and their future careers. They are resourceful and know how to use the internet to their advantage. Whether they are researching which college to go to, which professor is the best or which courses are the hardest, thanks to the internet they can make educated decisions.
Gen Z is full of students who want hands-on learning opportunities. Gone are the days of sitting behind a desk taking endless notes with paper and pen, today’s college students want to experience what they are learning. Despite what we’ve all heard about this generation’s lack of interpersonal skills due to constant texting, they enjoy working with others and communicating and collaborating with other students and faculty. They use technology to further their positive agendas.
For members of Gen Z, education goes beyond the classroom. Social media and the internet provide invaluable platforms for sharing real-world knowledge about human-rights, mental health, economics, political and environmental issues. This generation wants to soak up knowledge and they want to share it.
Money
Financial security matters to members of Gen Z and they are starting to save at an early age.
Even young members of Gen Z have bank accounts, budgeting apps and a well-thought-out plan. Maybe they watched their parents struggle or maybe they watched a millennial sibling stumble along the path to financial stability. Whatever the reason, Gen Z is not interested in debt, interest charges, or wasting time and money. In fact, this generation is already stressed and anxious about their financial futures.
According to a study of high school seniors, this generation wants to earn a solid income and avoid the burden of debt. They aren’t afraid of work. In fact, in addition to school, Gen Zers seek part-time jobs, freelance and online earning opportunities and many even start their own companies.
Generation Z is a generation we can count on for change. They are proactive go-getters who have learned what not to do by watching their predecessors. From climate change to education to money, Gen Zers are a global generation focused on the future. With technology on their side, we hope to watch them do great things.
