Today, Explained The Class of 2020
May 15, 2020
Annie Chata is a graduating senior from the University of Washington who faced a virtual commencement ceremony due to the pandemic. She shares the bittersweet emotions of missing significant milestones. Annie Lowrey, a reporter from The Atlantic, discusses the daunting economic landscape for new graduates, drawing parallels to the Great Recession. They explore the resilience of the Class of 2020 and the importance of adaptability in navigating today's job market, while also addressing innovative solutions like universal basic income.
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A Graduation Lost
- Annie Chata, a University of Washington senior, shared her disappointment about the virtual graduation.
- Her incarcerated father's release made this event even more significant, symbolizing her achievement despite their challenges.
Bleak Job Market
- The current economic downturn, while potentially shorter than the 2007 recession, has a higher unemployment rate.
- Annie Lowrey notes that initial job losses for new graduates can impact earnings for up to two decades.
Advice for Grads
- Graduating seniors facing a tough job market should consider improving skills and credentials.
- They should also leverage their political power to push for policy changes addressing precarity.