As the globe celebrates the start of a new era, the 'post pandemic' life, it has also changed and redefined the ambitions of youth all across the world. When the globe was combating the virus, everyone had to face its repercussions. The students had to stay indoors and take online classes instead of meeting their teachers and peers in person. It was indeed a trying time for many but the world is gradually overcoming the crisis. The journey of Generation Z and their optimistic response to the pandemic demonstrates that a comeback is always stronger than a setback.
The pandemic transformed the way people learned and worked, and so did Gen Z's goals and opportunities. The INTO University Partnerships survey tells a tale of resilience of Gen Z, with many under 25 years old remaining hopeful about their future. According to the survey, Indian students are the most optimistic, with 94% indicating they have a favourable outlook on their future. Besides the challenges faced by the corona pandemic, the majority of Generation Z expects a bright future. While many are upbeat and excited, some have indicated that their positive attitude is frequently accompanied by anxiety.
It is also worth noting that Generation Z was one of the hardest hit generations by the pandemic. The outbreak completely disturbed their social lives, and they had to learn and upskill themselves within the four walls of the house. For more than a year, their lives had been radically altered by the pandemic. Many students around the world were affected by the disruption to their education, which caused significant stress, worry, mental health difficulties, and financial hardship. But the beauty of human beings is that they overcome obstacles, learn from difficult experiences, and gradually develop a more courageous and hopeful mindset.
In the pandemic Gen Z has learned empathy and inculcated a growing understanding for the struggles of others. Many of them came forward to help those in need during the outbreak and also plan to volunteer for social causes in future. Self-motivation, adaptability, and emotional perseverance were some of the qualities learned after combating the pandemic. Here, Gen Z's optimism towards the future is not considered unrealistic; rather, Gen Z is known for their pragmatism. They are popularly described as "realists" and "practical" generation as compared to the millennials.
The pandemic has also changed their outlook towards career and their expectations from it. Many people under the age of 25 are evaluating their professional routes and prospects as a result of the pandemic. People have begun to value their family time and balance their work with leisure in order to preserve a healthier and more happy lifestyle after the pandemic. Gen Z now desires jobs that enable them to balance their work and personal lives.
Another new trend in Gen Z post the pandemic is that an increasing number of them are pursuing entrepreneurship. Many youngsters worldwide have expressed an interest in becoming entrepreneurs and launching their own businesses. They aim to gain self reliance by creating their own enterprises.
Born in the digital age and having undertaken their education during a global pandemic, Generation Z is now well acquainted with technological advancements and can deal with the digital world. The majority of them returned to colleges and schools in the last year all over the world. According to studies, the opportunities they seek from educational institutions have also shifted. Now, social and extracurricular activities are also significant considerations that they examine before enrolling in an institution.
While Gen Z recognises the Covid-19's impact on their learning, overall lifestyle, and professional opportunities, the majority of Gen Zers believe they can get past these hurdles and live the life they've planned for themselves. The world's Generation Z has indeed made a stunning comeback. The pandemic's difficulties were not able to hinder them from accomplishing their dreams.