As a member of Generation Z and as a college student, I would like to shed some light on the educational situation I and my peers face. The harsh reality is that we’re struggling in the workplace as we search for jobs and build careers. The American education system is to blame.

Gen Z has been sold a lie, and it’s time we face this uncomfortable truth.

Our youth are told that a college degree is the golden ticket to success, but this one-size-fits-all approach has proven very costly. Instead of equipping students with practical skills and critical thinking abilities, they’re burdened with crushing debt and degrees that often hold little value in today’s job market.

Employers are turning down Gen Z workers, even ones with college degrees, because they are unprepared for the workforce.

As students learn how to work the education system, they miss opportunities to develop resilience, adaptability and communication skills. The education system has yet to adapt to this reality.

College costs are rising. The state of the economy makes it unfeasible for many young people to invest in such a pursuit. With the rise of AI and technological advancements, college educations are losing value.

The solution: reform our education system. Start focusing on skills and critical thinking that benefit students in all aspects of life. Stop holding students back and let them succeed. Stop pushing perfection and selling children expensive degrees.

We need to reevaluate our approach to education and focus on career preparation. It’s up to parents, educators, policymakers and community members to wake up and push for meaningful change. We all deserve better.

Aliciana Archibald

Canyon City