Every generation has its defining characteristics such as music, slang, values, and even ways of thinking. But how different are today’s high schoolers from their parents or grandparents? From technology to social norms, the gap between generations is more noticeable than ever.
One of the biggest differences between Gen Z and older generations like Millennials or Gen X, is technology. Most high school students today have never known a world without smartphones, social media, and instant access to information. In contrast, our parents grew up with landlines, dial up internet, and handwritten notes instead of text messages. While older generations sometimes criticize younger people for spending too much time on their phones, Gen Z argues that technology has helped them connect with others. Like staying informed, and even learning new skills. I do believe that this might be one of the better changes, although new generations can be addicted to their phones, the internet can help a lot with school work or just whenever you have a question about something.
Along with technology comes a shift in how people communicate. While previous generations relied on face-to-face conversations and phone calls, Gen Z prefers texting, Snapchat, and memes. Even emojis have changed- what was once a simple thumbs-up can now be seen as passive-aggressive, depending on who you ask. I do think new generations have new and better ways to communicate. It can not always be the best as talking face to face, but in some ways sending Snapchats or just emojis can help people express themselves better to people.
For many parents and grandparents, success was defined by getting a stable job, buying a house, and settling down. But Gen Z is rewriting that script. With rising college costs, a changing job market, and the rise of remote work. Many young people are looking for alternative paths, including entrepreneurship, freelance work, and prioritizing mental health over the hustle culture. I honestly think this is more of a better change since people are getting to try new and better things, so they can figure out more of what they want to do instead of settling down so fast.
Perhaps one of the most defining characteristics of Gen Z is its activism. More than any generation before, young people today are vocal about social media and political issues, from climate change to mental health awareness. Social media has made it easier than ever to spread awareness and organize protests. Something previous generations could only do through word of mouth or traditional media.
At the end of the day, while technology, communication, and values may change, the challenges of growing up remain the same. Whether it’s navigating friendships, figuring out the future, or dealing with pressure-high schoolers today aren’t all that different from their parents. Just with a few more apps in their pockets. I hope that the new generations embrace their limitless potential to shape the future in ways we can only dream of. They have the unique advantage of growing up in a time where technology, knowledge, and global collaboration are more accessible than ever before.
