Edition: June 5th, 2021
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Excerpts from article published on the India Today Web Desk
Learning company Pearson has conducted a survey on college students or the Gen-Z from multiple countries to find out how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted them regarding social issues, career paths and mental health status.
The study found that college students gained interest in social and civic issues, reconsidered career aspirations, and strengthened their mental resilience despite the global pandemic.
Increased empathy sparks higher civic responsibility
Gen-Z is already known for their strong political activism and this study reveals that during the pandemic they’ve learned empathy and gained a new appreciation for the struggles of others.
As students around the world experienced a major virtual transition, they have an increased interest in social or civic issues, such as racial discrimination, education access, healthcare support and equality.
- 67% of college students report an increased interest in social or civic issues with 85% of college students saying they gained a new appreciation for the struggles of others.
- 63% of college students report an increased interest in racial equality, 53% in education equality and 52% in healthcare equality.
- 87% of college students report the belief that internet access is a basic human right and 92% believe governments should be doing more to provide it.
Societal awareness leads to new perspectives on life and career
Gen-Z has gained some new viewpoints on their career paths, a growing entrepreneurial spirit and considerations to jump into industries that were particularly influenced by the pandemic.
- 56% of college students are reconsidering their career path.
- 45% of college students have been inspired to consider a career in healthcare and science due to the pandemic.
- 45% of college students are interested in being an entrepreneur and starting their own business.
- 72% of college students have found a new sense of urgency for completing their education.
Mental health takes front seat amidst anxiety
While the pandemic has been an emotional burden on college students, they see themselves becoming better and stronger through self-motivation, adaptability, and new personal skills.
- 70% of college students say that disruption to their education has been a serious source of stress, anxiety, mental health issues, and financial hardship.
- 80% of college students say their generation will become more resilient because of the adversities faced during the pandemic.
- Two-thirds of college students say they’ve grown as a person, with self-motivation, adaptability and emotional resilience being the top skills gained.
- 66% of college students say they have developed new hobbies during the pandemic, with reading, gaming and cooking among the top three.
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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