Two students enjoying each other’s company in the sun, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
Generation Z, or zoomers, is made up of those born between 1995 and 2012 and are considered to be one of the most diverse generations. Around the globe, zoomers have changed and continue to change societal norms. Gen Z has redefined norms for communication, purpose and consumerism.
Gen Z was one of the first generations to have grown up with the internet. The generation before them, known as Millennials, had the internet kickstarted in their early years back in 1983, but what does it mean to grow up with the internet and online services? Commonly used websites by Millennials were what shaped how Gen Z used the internet at a very young age. Websites like MySpace, YouTube and Facebook are some examples. Due to this, many Gen Z kids were first introduced to the internet via Facebook and Instagram, both of which being social media platforms where you can connect with others and communicate online. As the years went by new platforms were developed that came to the surface and became dominated by Gen Z, these websites being Snapchat and TikTok.
Meme tapestry of Pitbull in Celentano Hall, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
The new and inventive ways of keeping in touch via online mediums made it super easy for people to get in touch with one another whenever and wherever. 98% of zoomers own a smartphone, which on average, they check over 80 times a day. Gen Z has entirely changed the norm for communication and it is found that most of Gen Z prefers to communicate online rather than having face-to-face contact, which harbors for more inclusivity when it comes to identity since people across the globe can communicate. What does this mean for college?
UNH student, Jenna Mercer, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
Generation Z students are becoming considered the most educated generation. These students have higher high school graduation rates as well as lower college dropout rates compared to the previous generations. In 2018, 57% of 18-21 year olds were in college in comparison to 52% of Millenials and 43% of Generation X. Self identity is also an important part of what makes up the values of a Gen Z student. Due to this increase, and to keep up with changing societal norms, colleges also make more initiatives to be more inclusive for students across race, gender identity, sexual orientation and ethnicity. Dr. Alan Dennington for timely care said, “This next generation of students also needs support services like advising and counseling throughout the college journey. That means such services can’t be merely added on, but rather must be fully integrated into the student experience”. This expands beyond just inclusivity; Gen Z also promotes the need for support and mental health awareness due to the increased reports of stress from college students, with Gen Z reporting to be one of the most stressed out younger generations. How are these norms reflected on University of New Haven’s campus?
Change your mindset sign, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
The University of New Haven (UNH) has a lot of positive impacts on campus to assure students that they are not alone and resources. One example is the Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) located on campus. UNH also fosters an inclusive and diverse campus environment, and many clubs and registered student organizations (RSOs) hold events tailored to raise awareness and promote topics to educate the campus community. Some examples of this are Cinco de Mayo in Bartels, events during Black History Month and RSOs like Muslim Student Association (MSA).
MSA celebrates Muslim women on campus, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
Alpha Lambda Alpha sign for Royal Blues showcase event, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
SCOPE is another student run organization on campus which plans free undergraduate events for students to enjoy. These events happen all the time and range from going to an amusement park to egg hunts on campus. Coming up this weekend is SCOPE’s famous spring week activities including a concert lineup of bbymutha, Bad Suns and Yung Gravy.
SCOPE handing out spring week t-shirts, West Haven, CT, April 26. Photo courtesy of Horseshoe Magazine/Kalla Ames.
Generation Z is a generation of change that fosters a greater environment for each person.
