Generation Z has emerged as a population that increasingly instills much attention because their life experience has been shaped by a different world compared to other generations. Born after 1996, Generation Z population differs from previous generations – Generation Y, also known as the Millennials and Generation X – in attitudes, tendencies, and outlook.

Some statistics show that the global Gen Z population has already reached 2.56 billion people in 2020. Generation Z is expected to represent 80 million of US consumers by 2026 and will become the largest generation in American history. Today, they are worth 27 percent of the US population. The oldest members of this group are in their early 20s, and some of them are moving towards America’s education system. According to Pew Research Center, Generation Z students are more likely to pursue college compared to previous generations. Data show that generation Z students aged 18-21 were no longer at high schools in 2018 and that 57 percent enrolled in a two- or four-year college program. Lower statistics – 52 percent for members of Generation Y in 2003 and 43 percent for those of Generation X – were previously recorded. Gen Z students are thought to value higher education because their parents have also been better educated. According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KID COUNT Data Center, in 2005, 35 percent of kids nationwide were growing up in a household led by someone with a college degree; and that by 2018, the percentage reached 44 percent.

Gen Z-ers are extremely goal-oriented and career-focused students, setting ambitious financial and personal goals. Moreover, they are seen as an optimistic generation, always eager to deepen their knowledge as much as they can. They remain highly motivated, and that makes them unique as a generation.

Gen-Z has gone through hard times these last years and has witnessed economic crisis and financial struggles – during the great recession for instance. These events came to change their worldview. As a result, they have become more concerned and vigilant regarding their future.

These Generation Z students are compassionate and very committed when it comes to changing the world. They are “racially and ethnically diverse, progressive and pro-government"  according to Pew Research Center. Gen Z shows a strong desire to largely contribute to the world, to create a more equitable society, and to help and act for the benefit of the community.

Another special feature of Generation Z students is that they are digital natives. They grew up with technology and are significantly more comfortable with the internet compared to Millennials. Statistics reveal that 98 percent of Generation Z members own a smartphone. They can spend up to three hours a day on the internet and another three hours a day using social media. They are tech savvy, and the digital world has no more secret for them.

All generations have each their core characteristics and specificities – Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z, and so will the emerging demographic cohort called Generation Alpha.

Sources: Pew Research Center/ Psychology Today/ The Annie E. Casey Foundation