How My Understanding of Teens and Gen Z Impacts My Work with Students

As an independent consultant, I draw on my understanding of Gen Z and the unique aspects of their adolescent experience. Born in the digital age and impactful events like the pandemic, Gen Z combines pragmatism, anxiety about the future, and a desire for authenticity and social justice. Recognizing these qualities helps me better understand students and tailor support to their needs and worldviews.

I approach my counseling with empathy, recognizing that Gen Z students face increased stress due to their constant presence in the digital environment. Social media provokes emotional fluctuations and can lead to burnout. Recognizing these factors, I create a space for students to feel understood and help them find a balance between their online lives and their personal well-being.

Additionally, Gen Z’s desire for self-development and self-discovery aligns well with the coaching techniques I employ. I encourage students to explore their strengths, values, and motivations through self-assessment tools. These tools not only develop self-understanding, but also help them align their academic plans with their personal interests and long-term goals, making their educational journey more meaningful and personal.

Strategies: “Working with Resistance” and Not “Fixing Everything”

Applying the strategies I learned, such as working with resistance and not “fixing everything,” has significantly changed my approach to counseling. When students resist advice or feedback, I no longer try to argue or convince them otherwise. Instead, I embrace resistance as part of the process and calmly explore their views. For example, if a student is hesitant about pursuing higher education, I explore the reasons for these doubts rather than immediately trying to convince them otherwise. This approach builds trust and allows students to gain a deeper understanding of their goals.

The strategy of not fixing everything has also changed my approach: I now focus not on solving students’ problems for them, but on facilitating their development. When they share challenges, whether academic or personal, I try not to offer instant solutions. Instead, I ask guiding questions so they can find the answers themselves. For example, if a student is stressed about applying to college, instead of giving instructions, I might ask, “What do you find most challenging about this process?” or “What steps can we take to make this easier?” Not only does this build problem-solving skills, it also builds self-confidence.

Building Relationships and Developing Resilience

These strategies align with my belief that every student is unique, with their own motivations, challenges, and potential. Using open-ended questions and active listening, I create a space where students feel heard and valued. My goal is not only to help them choose an academic path, but also to support their emotional and personal development.

With empathy, patience, and flexibility, I help students develop resilience. Instead of shielding them from all challenges, I show them that facing difficult situations can help them learn valuable skills. I remind them, “You have the power to get through this, and I’m here to help.” This approach not only helps students succeed academically, but also builds emotional resilience, preparing them to navigate the complexities of adulthood.

In this way, my understanding of teens and Gen Z allows me to build empathy-based work, employ effective strategies, and foster resilience in students. Using approaches like working with resistance and not fixing everything, I help students discover their strengths and solutions, building their confidence and the skills they need to succeed in the long run.