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THE FUTURE OF WORK: HOW GEN Z WOMEN ARE REDEFINING CAREER PATHS

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SUBR chapter.

Gen Z women are paving the way for others to step outside of traditional career paths. The rise of remote work and side hustles has inspired many to explore their strengths and passions. A common question women often face about their career is, “Can you have it all?” Through remote jobs, content creation, and rising entrepreneurship, women are proving that the sky is the limit. These trailblazers are redefining success by prioritizing flexibility and passion, showing that fulfillment can come in many forms. From working remotely in dream destinations to turning hobbies into thriving businesses, they are creating a new norm where career and personal life complement each other. By challenging societal expectations and embracing change, these women are opening doors for greater representation in various industries. Their fearless approach to breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes is inspiring future generations to dream big and embrace bold opportunities. For Gen Z women, “having it all” means crafting a life that embodies ambition and authenticity. 

“Breaking the 9-to-5 Mold” 

Traditionally, women have dominated healthcare and education fields. Women make up 77% of the healthcare workforce, yet only 16% of hospital CEOs are women. Teaching remains a female-driven profession with 76% of K-12 teachers being women but have only secured 56% of principal occupations. Women have continued to pursue careers despite gender inequality in the workplace and have put the ball in their own court. The box that women have been put in is slowly but surely becoming nonexistent through Gen Z efforts. 

Many women have used this age of heavy technology reliance to not work just in an office cubicle. This utilization of resources has given us the opportunity to show up for ourselves or other aspects in our lives because of this newfound flexibility. Going on vacation while being on the clock has become a reality thanks to remote job opportunities. In addition, women who have faced workplace discrimination and have used that hardship to mold it into the foundation for their self-made companies. 

“Turning Passion into Paychecks” 

Side hustles for women aren’t just hobbies anymore, they’re dependable streams of income. The launching of businesses and social media careers allow women to be in control of their potential. All it takes is one page, post, or hashtag to make social media a monetary investment. A common method being used is for content creators to share their daily lives that are all so unique. What then proceeds is a growing following. With consistent uploads, life-changing brand deals will follow. Apps like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and more are for entertainment purposes, but it’s become so much more for Gen Z women. 

Women in the U.S. are still only earning 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, with women of color earning even less. Yet, social media platforms have given women the opportunity to express themselves freely while getting paid for it. Some creators even use their platform to shed light on their past experiences in the traditional workplace, which is what fuels their social media presence. Social media helps form communities and networking opportunities for women from all backgrounds. 

“Looking into the Future” 

Gen Z will be remembered as trailblazers for redefining career paths for women. As our world becomes more reliant on technology, it is inevitable that we must adapt. Women of this generation have shown what it means to not let traditions define you, but to let your passion be the fuel for all your aspirations. 

The generation starting in 2025 is “Generation Beta” –one that will be immersed in technology. Generation Beta will be able to reap the benefits of Gen Z’s trailblazing and go even farther in career redefining. Women have thought outside the box society has tried to put them in one digital footprint at a time.

Greetings! My name is Kadra Bates and I am a freshman majoring in Political Science at Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College. I'm from the small, yet growing town of Zachary, Louisiana and I am a true Southern girl! I currently serve on the Writing Committee for this chapter. Being a part of Her Campus to me means the opportunity for positive networking, opportunity, and growth. I am ready to grow not only socially but to become a stronger writer and advocate for women at Southern University. The best is yet to come for our chapter, so be on the lookout for everything Her Campus SUBR!