If someone told you that young people today are more positive and optimistic about the future than young people a few years ago how would you feel?

Due to the availability of the internet and other technologies, the current generation of young people is more connected with each other than any previous generation. Therefore, a young person is also exposed to many more people who are similar to themselves. This could mean that it is easier to be optimistic about the future, because they know they are not alone. Although, this could also mean that a young person feels massive pressure, like nothing seen before, in terms of competition when seeking a career or when striving to stand out in areas of interest to them. Furthermore, a young person today can expect to have to prove themselves in what is increasingly becoming a true ‘world market’.

For example, at Imperial College London, where I currently study Physics, a large proportion of undergraduates are overseas students who are either capable of paying exorbitant annual tuition fees themselves, or their government is, through sponsorship. This inevitably leaves fewer places for young people today, when specifically talking about UK citizens. This, however, is not necessarily an argument against the optimism of young people today, at least for those in my position. By getting into Imperial I, or anybody in a situation similar to me, can feel a great sense of achievement before even embarking on a degree programme, let alone finding a job at the end of it all. This is certainly a case for the optimism of youth, whether warranted or otherwise.

By contrast, the news has recently been full of stories regarding record numbers of students entering clearing and some not getting places when they do reach that stage. Graduates finishing degrees, even from reputable universities, are really struggling to find employment. Young people are discovering that the only way to compensate for this is by getting lots of relevant work experience and possibly even staying on to get further qualifications.

In conclusion, young people today may be more optimistic about their futures but this does not necessarily equate to an easier or better future, at least in the short term.