Gen Z on AI, Trump & the Future

Gen Z Focus Group on the Future

President Trump's efforts to reshape the global economy, implement stricter immigration policies, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence are major concerns. The past five years have brought a pandemic and significant inflation. A recent focus group explored these changes with 13 young individuals, including recent college graduates and an upcoming senior, discussing Mr. Trump’s presidency and their use of A.I.

The discussion highlighted how the economy has shaped the mindset of 20-somethings. They expressed concerns about their chosen degrees, the high cost of living, dreams of financial stability, reliance on family support, and the lasting social and economic impacts of the pandemic. One participant noted the pandemic made them “less social and more on our phones,” leading to feelings of isolation.

These issues led to questions about America's future: Is the country in decline, or are better days ahead? Can hard work and playing by the rules still lead to success? And what do they want to know about their future?

Feelings About the Country's Direction

Participants described their feelings about the country's direction as hesitant, disappointed, nervous, interested, fearful, uncertain, sad, optimistic, worried, and cautiously optimistic.

Those who felt optimistic believed the economy and inflation would improve under the new president, expressing faith in their leadership. They acknowledged ongoing issues but trusted that the country's leaders shared the goal of improving the nation, despite differing approaches.

One participant said they were “interested” in how tariffs and government funding cuts would unfold. Another expressed “sadness” and “genuine despair” over the perceived threats and challenges to the country's structures. Others felt “disappointed” by the economy and high costs, making homeownership seem unattainable.

One participant living with their parents found it difficult to focus on national improvements due to their inability to afford independent living. Another believed instability would persist beyond Mr. Trump’s administration. One participant hoped leaders would learn from past errors and address immigration issues, advocating for those who contribute to the economy while opposing those involved in trafficking.

One participant expressed hope for stabilization and improved inflation, while another gave the administration a “C” grade, citing a lack of major negative events but disliking tariffs. Another gave a “B,” praising the stern warnings to other countries regarding products and prices, benefitting low-income consumers, and immigration efforts, but noted accidental deportations.

One participant gave a “C,” citing a positive image of America internationally through trade actions but a negative impact on cryptocurrency and the stock market due to the creation of a cryptocurrency coin.

Experiences in the Job Market

Participants described the job market as difficult, with numerous applicants for each position, worsened by changes since Covid. Despite having a degree in information security, one graduate noted companies demand four to five years of experience for entry-level roles.

They felt entry-level jobs should build on college degrees or trade school certifications, include mentorship, and provide training for more advanced tasks. One participant with a job acknowledged the difference between having a job and seeking one, noting entry-level positions often demand unrealistic experience levels.

One participant hoped for better finances and acknowledged relying on parental support. They obtained a job paying more than minimum wage after graduating in December.

Participants felt the job market hindered their progress, with many friends struggling to secure interviews despite numerous applications. Landing a job helped one participant overcome feelings of inadequacy after graduation.

Participants felt less independent from their parents than they anticipated. One saved stimulus checks while others spent them. Another expressed gratitude for the freedom to work and live, maintaining structure in their life.

Hopes for the Future

One participant hoped to find a single job that would cover their bills and allow them to live independently. Looking ahead 20 to 30 years, they envisioned owning a business that provides financial freedom and allows them to help others.

Others hoped for financial stability, homeownership, children, and supporting their education, along with achieving a higher-level management position, a good family life, and golden retrievers.

Some participants wanted a successful marriage, children, and a nice home, with the goal of health, financial independence, food, shelter and an in-unit washer and dryer. They emphasized self-reliance over dependence on policy decisions.

Impact of the Pandemic

Participants felt older people might not grasp the pandemic's impact, including the shift to online learning. Some felt it slowed their momentum, as companies laid off employees and became comfortable with fewer staff. One participant deferred college to work in their family business.

Participants felt Covid made them less social and more reliant on phones, leading to isolation and decreased motivation. The pandemic paused life, causing some to care less about their future.

Participants agreed that Covid made them less social, making face-to-face communication difficult, leading to a false sense of competition from social media and increased isolation.

Use of Artificial Intelligence

Participants reported using A.I. for shopping, personal advice, job and financial guidance. One used A.I. for scriptwriting for YouTube and Twitch content, viewing it as a more in-depth alternative to searching online.

Participants admitted to using A.I. for schoolwork, like finance homework and generating ideas for papers. Some felt A.I. made learning easier, especially in poorly taught classes. Some professors encouraged A.I. use.

Participants discussed if A.I. is replacing entry-level jobs, requiring more experience upfront. Some can identify job descriptions written by A.I. Participants noted the increase in college graduates.

Participants avoided A.I. due to a desire to think independently. Others expressed unease with A.I., avoiding involvement and worrying about regulation and environmental impacts. Participants found no need for it in their lives.

Participants used A.I. to enhance job efficiency. Others noted A.I.'s potential impact on the job market, replacing human roles in application screening, viewing it as too robotic.

Role of Social Media

Participants followed only known contacts and used private accounts. They enjoyed feeling connected to friends on trips. One admitted to doomscrolling on TikTok, leading to feelings of inadequacy. They noted the need for balance.

Participants viewed social media as negative and avoided using it for personal interaction. One participant cited studies on the reduction of gray matter from excessive screen time, acknowledging their own addiction to social media.

Views on the Country's Future

Participants did not think the best days were in the past or present, focusing on the future. One supported trade actions. Others were less positive due to current events and doubted the country would unite again.

One participant felt division was greater than in the early 2000s. Another thought history repeats itself, experiencing both good and bad times due to human nature, with social media amplifying opinions. They felt able to understand others' viewpoints, even without agreeing.

Some participants criticized the “pull-yourself-up-by-the-bootstraps” mentality, saying the American dream of success through hard work is unrealistic. Others believed success was within reach by avoiding illegal activities.

Advice for Their Younger Selves

Participants wished they had learned about cryptocurrency sooner. One would have chosen corporate over a start-up job due to better hiring prospects. Another wished they had appreciated high school more and advised choosing a practical degree like nursing or engineering over business.

Participants advised being more open-minded, saving money, and not taking things too seriously, as many high school anxieties were insignificant.

Questions for Their Older Selves

Participants wanted career advancement advice, marital and financial advice, and guidance on whom to avoid. One wondered about the value of a master's degree. Another wanted to know if they were on the right path, and how to find success and be with the right people.

One asked about the price and best investments. Others wanted to know if their degree would lead to a job, and if they would be wealthy and happy. Another wanted to know if they would be doing something they might not be aware of. One participant simply asked: Am I happy?