Does Gen Z Really ANANYA ANAND copy editor
28 | THE PROSPECTOR
As kids growing up in this generation, the statement “you have it better than we did” sounds all too familiar. “You have anything and everything you could ever ask for, and you have the world at your feet.” This rings a bell, doesn’t it? The claim that Gen Z has it easy is becoming more widespread amongst older generations. People seem to think that just because Gen Z has access to a so-called polished education system, a strong means of healthcare and a surplus of technology, we have it the easiest amongst everyone. While some aspects of this statement may be true, this does not mean that all changes have been positive. Starting with the education reforms that our generation has undergone, writer Sieva Kozinsky gives us insight as to what this generation has experienced. According to
Kozinsky, Gen-Zers are pushed into a career path earlier on in their schooling years compared to previous graduating classes. Many people view this as a good thing because of the exposure and stability it provides to students, but it can also be seen in a negative light due to the severe pressure that students now face. The atmosphere surrounding us students can be extremely toxic, and it can take a toll on our mental health. On the topic of mental health is the conversation of whether the technology surrounding us has made our lives and wellbeing better or not. Technology has given us more access to various sources, such as online healthcare. A majority of people would agree that this is something that makes Gen Z’s life ten times easier. The article “How Gen Z is Affecting Healthcare” talks about how this generation has everything from ‘why is my throat sore’ to ‘what to do if I have the flu’ all answered online. With the help of all the search engines out there, it can be said that our generation has the answers to everything. But this card can be flipped; our education system is not all sunshine and rainbows, and Gen Z has gone through some tough events throughout the past years. Speaking of a polished education system, one would agree that it entails quality education without trace of discrimination. Students should feel safe and secure, in order to finish their thirteen years of schooling. According to the Center for Homeland Defense and Security, 73 schools since 1999 have experienced gun related incidents, and 341 people
