While graduation was once a time of excitement and new beginnings, more and more college students today find themselves dreading the real world after crossing the stage. And with unemployment among Millennials now at 11.7 percent, who can blame them?
Here are 5 reasons why being a millennial isn’t so bad. In fact, it’s actually pretty awesome!
1. You’re technologically savvy!
You can navigate smartphones, tablets and any other new device that comes your way. And this skill won’t just help you become the next Steve Jobs: Even politics needs new media gurus like you to control the cyber space!
2. We live in the “gig economy” where there is ample opportunity to pick up various freelance projects.
Yes, it’s not exactly a full-time job, but picking up these odd jobs can potentially lead to a promising career. Take my roommate. She discovered she could not only make a living — but a decent one at that — off solely freelance projects. For several months, she was her own boss designing websites for various clients. Then, someone who had followed her progress sought her out, offered her a job, and now she is the marketing manager for a new company at the tender age of 25.
3. Making professional connections isn’t just about who your dad knows at the tennis club anymore.
The development of social networking sites strictly for employment purposes, like Linkedin or InCircle, makes it that much easier for you to find your first job at the touch of a button. Not to mention the many internships available in almost every field that can not only expand your skill set but your also your professional connections.
4. There are 600,000 high-skilled manufacturing jobs left for the taking
Why is this good for young people? You have the time and flexibility older adults don’t have to train for these well-paying jobs. Not to mention that all the various “gigs” and part-time jobs out there can help you pay your rent while you’re training for other high-paying careers.
5. If there isn’t a job out there for you, create your own.
The economy needs more young entrepreneurs like you. For example , 25-year-old James Hill started a necktie company, High Cotton, out of college that only uses homegrown cotton from the South. Now his products are carried in 160 stores and the only boss he ever has to listen to again is his mother, who co-owns the company with him.
