Generation Z Goes to College: A Book Review

Generation Z Goes to College: A Book Review

Introduction

Generation Z Goes to College provides an insight into the lives of the post-millennial generation wave of individuals with birth years ranging from 1995 to 2010 in the United States. Generation Z makes up one-fourth of the US population of individuals who are racially diverse and heavily reliant on technology. Seemiller and Grace explore various socioeconomic factors that impact Generation Z through the examination of their transition into higher education. Their research consists of surveying students’ preferences and analyzing data which offer strategies for parents and professionals of student development to accommodate the newfound generation. Technological advances such as smartphones and social media have greatly contributed to student learning, communication, and freedom of expression in the 21st century. As a consequence of the Great Recession, Generation Z students face rising tuition costs, financial burdens, and uncertainties in securing employment after graduation. These insecurities contribute to a diminished perception of the American Dream, which raise many questions of how universities will address these issues.

Understanding Today’s College Students

The post-millennial Generation Z wave has become known as the most racially and culturally diverse generation in the United States. The demographics of the higher education population also reveals that diversity continues to grow within universities. Seemiller and Grace (2016) suggest a social movement is underway within colleges, to which 68 percent of Generation Z students rank racial equality amongst issues of greatest importance (p. 104). During Generation Z’s lifetime, the nation has reformed laws and policies addressing issues such as “antidiscrimination, women and fair pay, hate crime prevention, marriage equality, work permits for childhood immigrants, and minimum wage increases” (p. 38). These national movements have influenced the mindset of many students, to which “fewer than 20 percent believe that a shared culture background is important when creating or sustaining friendships” (p. 88). Although racial diversity varies across different regions, universities serve as opportunities for integration and exposure to heterogenous cultural aspects.

Technology has become an essential tool in enhancing Generation Z students’ educational and social experiences. The majority of college students are heavily reliant on smartphones equipped with texting, social media, and dating applications. Evidence suggests that unlimited access to the internet and social media impacts human psychology, resulting in lower attention spans and a new phenomenon known as “FOMO-the fear of missing out” (p. 29). According to Seemiller and Grace, “ninety percent said they would be upset if they had to give up their access to the Internet in general” (p.222). Heavy reliance on these devices raises some concern, however, Generation Z’s lifetime exposure of technological resources has been a proven advantage in obtaining knowledge. The presence of technology corresponds with the nation’s shifting job economy, which now demands highly technological labor and training involving computer science. Universities have begun addressing this shift by applying technological strategies towards academic planning and teaching Generation Z the necessary skills that insures post-graduation employment.