For those of us who have looked over our degree planner, put things in motion, and are set to graduate with the class of 2023, this is our year! From being kids that were still a part of the generation that grew up with silly bands, Easy Bake Ovens, and neon checkered shorts, we are now about to enter the workforce. On the outside looking in, this is a great accomplishment for anyone. Graduating from a college or university is no small feat that should not be overlooked. Of course, it also means a cascade of follow-up realities and events that can provoke some understandable anxieties. Getting a degree and being at this adult age means it is time to maybe land a first official job for most. True independence follows. So what does all of this really entail? Where will 2001 babies end up in the world next?
Graduation has surrounded us since we were getting our early education. I’m sure many of us attended various graduation ceremonies from elementary to high school whether they be our own or someone we know. So being in a group that was fortunate enough to attend university and complete our education means the next step is finally here. What this means is entirely up to the individual. Some may continue their education in grad school, some may take the entrepreneur route and begin working on their own start-up, some will choose to help out the family business back in their hometown, or others could land that job interview that propels them into their first career. Not to mention an entirely new bracket of Gen Z is now able to contribute in different ways than before to society. This is a class that included some of the last people who grew up before 9/11. A class whose Millennial, Gen X, and even some Boomer parents influenced their upbringing. A generation that grew up with the influence of social media, and so many more factors that impacted their development. So a mix of all these social and life-impacting events really created a formula of unique individuals. The new wave of people in society is a force to be reckoned with.
Now it’s our turn to put our opinions, impact, leadership capabilities, and all the above into the universe. Graduating and continuing on is the final push to finish this chapter of our lives. Whether that be a career path, personal independence, or even continuing some form of education. This may sound daunting, but more than anything it is the time for the 2001 generation to take its next steps. Don’t let your fears overtake your plans and dreams, we are the class of 2023.