We send our kids to college knowing how to do algebra, write a solid essay and probably cook a bowl of ramen, but it turns out, a lot of them don’t know things like doing laundry, how to grocery shop, or pay their bills. And that’s why classes on “how to adult” are popping up at college campuses across the country.
Kids are growing up less independent,” explains Jean Twenge, a psychology professor at San Diego State University. “They’re less likely to learn how to adult things as high school students. They get to university and they still don’t know.” The thing is, Gen Z wants to know this stuff, so they’re happily signing up for courses to learn it.
So, colleges like Michigan State University are stepping up to teach it. They offer an “Adulting 101” class to help them learn to “navigate the complexities of everyday life as an independent adult.” It focuses on practical life skills, as well as financial literacy, credit, banking and budgeting. University of California, Riverside’s Adulting Program focuses on three areas: Basic Needs, Career Development and Financial Wellness. Similar programs are being offered at other colleges to fill in those gaps, now if we can just get the students to show up and pay attention!
Source: Newsweek
Scott's Thoughts:
- You mean they’re not learning all this stuff on TikTok?
- That transition into young adult life can be tough...
- I think we all have to learn the hard way.