Gen Z is a very unique generation that is entering and attending college now. They are the first generation to grow up in a world surrounded by digital technology and social media. Because of this, they hold different perspectives and worldviews compared to other generations.
In general, Gen Z is more willing to talk openly about mental health than all other generations before it. They have a strong entrepreneurial mindset and are on the hunt for side hustles and ways they can bring in extra cash to grow their success. Growing up with the rise of the internet, Gen Z is also very self-reliant and tends to figure things out on their own, searching the internet first for guidance.
But, some may say they have a short attention span too. They grew up with the world (aka a smartphone) at their fingertips. With easy access to entertainment and information, Gen Z could quickly consume their content without having to make a trip to the library and search through an encyclopedia (do these even exist anymore?).
Gen Z is the new wave of college students. And they want to learn differently. They have different priorities for their college experience and want a say in how it can best benefit their specific goals. But what does Gen Z really want out of college? Here’s the breakdown:
1. Hands-On and Practical Learning
Gen Z students thrive in hands-on and practical learning environments. Growing up with technology all around them, they expect it to be used in college too. Gen Z wants their education to be entertaining and meaningful.
With attention spans getting shorter and shorter (no matter your age, I think we all suffer from this), colleges will need to adapt and teach in a way that is interactive and technology-driven to engage Gen Z. Gen Z wants education that is relevant to their career goals so that they can apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
2. Personalization and a Tailored Experience
Gen Z is unique and they know it. They value personalization and seek out programs and opportunities that align with their interests. Colleges that offer a flexible and customizable learning experience attract these students. Gen Z wants to be well-rounded with a large skill set.
Maybe in college, they don’t know what job they want to do yet, but they know there are a lot of different options that one major doesn’t always cover. Gen Z wants the choice to add more minors or have more say in the classes they choose for their major.
3. Career Search and Job Security
Gen Z is well-informed about the job market. With social media, it’s easier than ever to learn about different jobs in all types of fields. Plus, more and more influencers and creators are sharing about their jobs and what they do. Interest in watching people’s “day in the life” videos also came with more people posting about their careers and viewers having a genuine interest.
Gen Z also experienced multiple times over the years where there were large layoffs and people struggled to find jobs for liveable wages. Despite this, Gen Z hopes to be employed soon after graduating from college. They want colleges to provide them with the right education and tools for future success.
Plus, they have an expectation of what they want to earn before even applying for jobs. They value their lifestyles and want to live to a certain standard so they aren’t shy about making it clear what salary they deserve. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to search and find what other people in similar positions are making, so it’s one less thing they have to stress over when job searching.
4. Mental Health and Well-Being
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z openly talks about mental health and well-being. However, compared to previous generations there is also an increase in mental health issues among Gen Z college students.
Still, they prioritize what they need when it comes to maintaining good mental health. They aren’t afraid to speak up and make their needs known to colleges, professors, and others. There’s more awareness of anxiety, stress, and depression and less stigma around it.
Having opportunities to seek help or assistance in college is something Gen Z wants. For example, having free therapy sessions or mentors available to them that they can go to easily when they need is attractive to them. They are looking for supportive environments that aid their academic performance and overall happiness.
5. An Authentic Experience
Part of what came out of social media is that Gen Z became skeptical of marketing and people appearing “fake.” Although they enjoy social media, they know that the majority of what they see is not “real.” Either pictures are edited or videos leave out the not-so-aesthetic parts, but Gen Z notices. Because of this, they crave authentic experiences even more outside of their phones.
Just as they value genuine and relatable content from influencers and brands, they also value that in their college experience. Colleges that are authentic in their communication and education will resonate with Gen Z. Gen Z wants a place where they can grow and experience new things. They want to know what atmosphere a college truly has and the type of people that attend the school. They want real and raw tours, instead of ones that are staged and rehearsed.
Gen Z brings a new era of college expectations and priorities because they are a unique generation that also wants a unique college experience. If you’re embarking on a journey toward higher education, use the FREE College Raptor College Match Tool to discover your perfect match.
