Generation Y Essay -- Youth Papers

Generation Y "Your generation is nothing but a bunch of computer addicted slackers. You kids don't care about anything." These phrases and others can be overheard coming from the mouths of baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, and other Generation Y predecessors. What happened? For years now, Generation Y, those born between 1977 and now, have been viewed negatively (Alch 1). Though the origins of the "slacker" title are uncertain, the term has certainly stuck. It could be considered a fitting title. After all, Generation Y performs poorly in school, has no motivation to work, and doesn't get involved with the issues, right? Well no, not exactly. Generation Y is largely misunderstood. They're actually extremely concerned with what goes on around them and are working harder than ever. These people are well on their way to reshaping society as we know it. Generation Y is a confident generation, with high self-esteem. They are opinionated and value their privacy (Article 15 1). They have a strong work ethic and have grown up understanding the electronic economy. Unlike their predecessors, Generation Y has demonstrated a sense of responsibility by having part time jobs while in high school and college. Often, they even help pay for their schooling (Alch 1). Clearly, it is worth taking a second glance before prematurely judging this generation. Sure, young Americans are addicted to the computer, but why wouldn't they be? Generation Y, also known as the echo-boom generation, has grown up digital. Forget them buying notebooks for school, they're buying laptops and zip disks instead. Times have changed and so have their focuses. Contrary to popular belief, this new generation sets their sights high t... ...ey're riding high on the technology wave, too, and are a hardworking, focused people. At this point they definitely have the upper hand by understanding the technology the rest of the world can't grasp. Upon closer evaluation, Generation Y may even have a certain charisma that the baby boomers lack. Bibliography: Works Cited Alch, Mark. "Get ready for the net generation." Society for the Advancement of Education 2000. 7 November 2000. Article 15. 7 November 2000. "New survey shows that most young adults have strong opinions on top campaign issues, but many still not planning to vote." 25 September 2000. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation 11 November 2000. Raising Student Achievement. White House. 11 November 2000. What happened the year you were born? SLACK Incorporated. 11 November 2000.