What Generation Just Graduated from College?

The generation that has just graduated from college is primarily Generation Z (often referred to as Gen Z).

Understanding Generation Z

Generation Z comprises individuals born roughly between 1997 and 2012. This broad age range means that while the youngest members of this generation are currently around 10 years old, the oldest among them, born in 1997, have already reached 25 years of age and are full-fledged adults. Gen Z represents a significant portion of the United States population, with approximately 68.6 million individuals, making up 20% of the country's total.

Gen Z's Journey Through College

The timeline for Gen Z individuals aligns perfectly with recent college graduation cycles. Based on typical educational paths, a four-year bachelor's degree would mean:

• Early Gen Z Graduates: Those born in the earliest years of the generation, such as 1997, would typically have completed their college degrees around 2019.
• Recent Graduates: Individuals born in 2002 would have been part of the college graduating class of 2024, marking them as the most recent wave of graduates.
• Upcoming Graduates: This trend continues, with Gen Z firmly established as the "graduating class of 2025" and beyond, demonstrating their ongoing presence in higher education commencements.

This generational cohort's entry into the workforce signifies a notable shift in demographics among recent graduates.

Key Characteristics of Gen Z Graduates

Graduates from Generation Z often share several distinctive traits shaped by their upbringing in a digitally saturated and rapidly changing world:

• Digital Natives: Having grown up with pervasive internet access, social media, and smartphones, they possess innate digital literacy and comfort with technology.
• Pragmatism and Realism: They tend to be more practical about their career paths and financial stability, often driven by economic realities they've observed.
• Diversity and Inclusivity: As the most diverse generation, they typically advocate for social justice, equity, and inclusivity in all aspects of life, including the workplace.
• Value-Driven: Gen Z often seeks employment that aligns with their personal values, prioritizing work-life balance, mental well-being, and a sense of purpose beyond just a paycheck.

Gen Z in the Workforce

As these graduates enter various industries, they bring fresh perspectives, new skills, and a desire for workplaces that are adaptable, innovative, and socially conscious. Their impact is already being felt, influencing workplace culture, technology adoption, and expectations around professional development and corporate responsibility.