Pandemic Alters Kids’ Dream Jobs

COVID-19—we all experienced it, and we're all sick of hearing about it. While the pandemic may feel like it was just yesterday, today’s high schoolers were in early middle school or even elementary school when it reached its peak. Looking back, many students say that when they were younger, their dream jobs were things like veterinarians, teachers, or doctors. More recently, however, it seems as if there’s been an incline in children hoping to one day become streamers, YouTubers, and actors. 

Is COVID to blame for this shift in dream careers? 

Before COVID, many St. Joseph High School students had Mr. Jason Huber as a 5th grade teacher at E.P. Clarke Elementary.

“Being at the elementary level, I have not noticed any huge change in what students want to do after high school. They are still saying things like becoming a professional athlete, gamer, and other similar careers,” Mr Huber said. 

While Covid-19 may not have made a direct impact on student career paths according to some, it seems as if it had made a direct impact on students' idea of social interaction. 

“But my partner teachers and I have noticed a change in student behavior when it comes to technology/access to computers and the internet. A number of students appear ‘addicted’ (my use of the word - no data to back up what I'm saying) to getting on the computer every opportunity they have,” Mr Huber said.

While COVID-19 may not have directly impacted students’ future dream careers, it demonstrates that the pandemic affected younger generations in unique ways. Growing up confined indoors during their early cognitive years has led many to become highly dependent on technology and the conveniences it provides. This technology-driven world raises concerns for the future, but are these generations too deeply entrenched to overcome these habits? Only time will tell.