Lazy, selfish, and narcissistic are a few of many adjectives that have been used to describe millennials.

Much of this negativity has been mistakenly directed at our age group. Not only are these unnecessary overgeneralizations, but they don’t apply to our generation, Generation Z.

Those born between 1995-2012 make up what demographers and researchers call Generation Z. So enough of millennials, what’s up with our generation?

Internet searches indicate that we are careless, rude, and entitled. According to Dr. Montero, “This generation is a lot more in tune with what’s happening globally, they’re more in tune with being more inclusive”

Statistically, we suffer more from depression and anxiety than generations before us. As Mrs. Van Orden pointed out, “Your generation has had to figure out depression and a lot of darker, harder kinds of things that are happening. I think in the long run that will turn out to be a strength. You’ll have a lot of people with empathy and with compassion.”

Montero agreed with Van Orden on this point, saying “I see a lot of students here at Timpview who are really kind.”

Each generation faces their own struggles and I’m not here to say we are perfect. However, generational weaknesses have the potential to become strengths.

What many are labeling as disrespect, Mrs. Van Orden labels as independance. “The fact that your generation tends to think very independently is a strength. It means you’re willing to stand up for things you believe in.”

The future is daunting, but Dr. Montero believes in us: “I’m confident that you guys are going to step up and be able to bring a sense of innovation to tackle those challenges.”

How Generation Z’s unique characteristics play out over the coming years is anyone’s guess, but I am confident we will be able to turn our so-called weaknesses into strengths.