272 - Gen Z Reconsidering Career Plans
Episode: 272
Episode Title: Gen Z Reconsidering Career Plans
How is Generation Z changing their education and career plans in a post-pandemic world? A new study provides some insight, coming up next on The Perna Syndicate.
Ep 272 show:
Hello and welcome—you are now in The Perna Syndicate! Over the past 18 months, education in America has changed dramatically. And now we’re seeing that the changes extend beyond remote learning, masking, social distancing and the like.
Spurred by the pandemic, Gen Z is taking a fresh look at their educational goals. According to a recent study by Pearson, 68% of college students see more value in their education than ever before. Another 72% reported a new sense of urgency for completing their education.
This is good news for higher education, which as a whole is facing major enrollment and retention challenges as costs continue to rise. The answer for colleges and universities is to be as adaptable as their students, to rethink their approach and be willing to make the changes necessary to succeed in a fast-changing world.
The study also found that many participants are reconsidering their area of study, thanks to what they experienced during the pandemic. 45% of current college students say they’re now considering a career in healthcare and science. Many others are now thinking about entering critical STEM fields.
The pandemic highlighted the need for healthcare professionals and scientists—and the next generation is rising to the challenge. I, for one, am excited to see where this empathy will take them as they pivot their plans and dreams to thrive in a post-pandemic landscape.
Tomorrow, we’ll look at the way the pandemic is shaping young people’s care and awareness of those around them. See you back here tomorrow on The Perna Syndicate!