Gen Z Talks “Skilled” Careers: What They Wish They Knew – 3 of 3

Questions and Advice from Members of Generation Z

Gen Z has signaled their frustration at a lack of career support in school, and they’ve clued us in to their (mis)perceptions of manufacturing and the skilled trades. Now it’s time for them to express themselves in their own words. In this final article of the “What They Wish They Knew” series, Gen Z answers the titular question, “Regarding careers, what is something you wish someone would have told you sooner and/or will explain to you now?”

COLLEGE PATHWAY

• “That college doesn’t help you understand what you want to do with your life.” -college student

• “Don’t feel that you immediately need to go to college to be successful, especially if you don’t know what career path you’re going to take. College is tough and expensive and you really have to want to go to be able to make it work.” -recent graduate

• “Would college be worth it or a good idea?” -high school student
  

THE JOB SEARCH

• “I wish someone would have shown me sooner that there are so many different kinds of jobs out there. I thought I had to be a teacher, lawyer, or doctor.” -recent graduate

• “I wish someone would explain in detail what each career is like and maybe have someone explain what it’s like to be a part of each career.” -high school student

• “Explain the benefits and disadvantages of my future careers. Have someone walk me through what my future might look like.” -high school student

• “I wish I was exposed to more high in demand jobs.” -college student

• “How many options there really are no matter what degree level.” -high school student

• “I wish someone would give me a survey of different jobs, so I can know what’s out there.” -college student

• “I want someone to help me know what jobs I could have.” -high school student

• “How to best look for careers.” -recent graduate
  

SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS

• “I wish I had understood that I can be successful if I really have a passion and master my skills for whatever I want to do, whether traditional or not” -recent graduate

• “As a high schooler, something that I wish someone would tell me is to do what makes you happy, and not to work on things that will only bring you success.” -high school student

• “Don’t worry so much about doing one thing now; you can always change your job later on if you wish.” -college student

• “I wish someone would’ve explained to me how to create my own value of time.” -college student

• “Don’t let your career get in the way of living your life and enjoying it!” -recent graduate
  

If we prioritize open dialogue and listen to the generation of our up-and-coming workforce, that honest, clear discussion can help ensure a brighter tomorrow for us all.