The Struggle of Today's College Grads vs. The Past
Social Issues ·In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, the challenges faced by college graduates entering the job market are greater than ever. The cost of living has skyrocketed, while wages have failed to keep up. But, do the older generations truly understand the struggles faced by today’s college grads?
“In 1982 the average college grad was making $102,200 right out of college. In 2022, the average college grad is making $55,260.”
A heartfelt video recently surfaced, highlighting the stark difference between the job prospects and living costs of today’s college graduates compared to their boomer counterparts. The creator of the video shares her own experience with her parents, who fail to recognize the reality of the job market and the cost of living for young professionals today.
@catamorning sorry but i’m just so over people projecting their lived experiences from 1980 onto me thinking it’s super relevant to today’s reality #college #student #postcollege #job #employment #boomers
♬ original sound - Cat
The video has sparked a massive reaction from viewers, who resonated with the creator’s message. Thousands of people have shared their own stories of struggling to find a job and dealing with the financial burden of student loans and housing costs. Many point out the lack of understanding from older generations, who often question the high expectations of today’s graduates without considering the effects of inflation and the vastly different economic landscape.
In the video, the creator highlights the disparity in entry-level salaries and living expenses, comparing her mom’s starting salary as a bank teller in 1980 to what she hopes to make today. With a well-researched and thought-provoking presentation, the creator demonstrates how the cost of living, particularly in housing and rent, has drastically increased since the 1980s, while wages have not kept up with inflation.
The outpouring of support and shared experiences in the comments section shows that this is not an isolated issue. Many young professionals have struggled to find work in their field, often settling for lower-paying jobs or relying on the support of their families to make ends meet. The video serves as a rallying cry for change and a call for understanding between generations.
As the world continues to evolve and the challenges faced by new graduates persist, it’s crucial that we foster understanding and support across generations. Recognizing the struggles faced by today’s college grads is the first step in working together to create a better future for all.