University Students Face Job Market Anxiety Amid AI and Social Media Pressures

As the new academic year begins, university students across Canada are grappling with a range of concerns, from securing employment after graduation to navigating the pressures of social media. Recent surveys conducted at four major post-secondary institutions reveal the anxieties and aspirations of students, highlighting their evolving relationship with technology and the job market.

Clara Sydor, a psychology major at the University of Manitoba (U of M), reflects on her journey and the uncertainty of future career prospects. Initially planning to pursue a degree in biology, she found her passion in psychology and now aims to make a meaningful impact in the mental health field. Despite her enthusiasm, Sydor expresses anxiety about finding a job post-graduation.

“I’m excited about graduating but at the same time, I’m nervous about not getting into a master’s program or not getting a recommendation letter from a professor,” she shared. Sydor is also concerned about the financial pressures of living independently, stating, “I don’t want to let negative thoughts take over, but it’s hard not to worry about the future.”

These sentiments resonate with many students who feel the weight of social media expectations. Sydor notes, “The pressures to look perfect online have intensified, particularly for young women. The constant comparison to filtered images can be overwhelming.” Although she maintains a personal Instagram account, she emphasizes the need for balance, using platforms like TikTok for entertainment rather than as a source of validation.

The role of technology, especially artificial intelligence, is another significant topic for students like Sydor. While she acknowledges the utility of tools like ChatGPT for refining her writing, she cautions against over-reliance on AI. “I think people need to be educated on how it works and the potential implications,” she asserted. “Universities should establish clear guidelines for its use in academic settings.”

In a similar vein, Gunkar Singh, a software development student, shares his ambitions and concerns. With aspirations to launch his own startup, Singh is focused on gaining experience through co-op internships. He highlights the increasing complexity of assignments, noting, “We have more quizzes and digital tasks now compared to previous years, which can be overwhelming.”

Singh also addresses the challenges posed by AI in the job market. “While AI can be helpful, it has also taken many jobs. We must be prepared for a future where competition is fierce,” he remarked. He hopes to find a position with a reputable company such as Amazon or Microsoft after graduation.

Another student, Sania Parvej, expresses her passion for journalism and the anxiety that accompanies it. She recognizes the difficulties of breaking into the industry, particularly in a challenging job market. “The fear of not finding a job is real for many of us,” she commented. “I’m doing my best in class, but I worry about what comes next.”

Parvej’s perspective on AI reflects a growing skepticism among students. “I believe it can be dishonest and has negative impacts on our ability to conduct research and form our own opinions,” she explained. “It’s already affecting journalism, and I worry about the spread of misinformation.”

As students navigate their academic and personal lives, many are seeking balance through hobbies and social interactions. Sydor enjoys spending time with friends, going for meals, and engaging in creative activities. “I love just chilling out with friends or going to the spa,” she added. Similarly, Singh and Parvej emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite their busy schedules.

The challenges faced by these students highlight broader societal issues, such as the rising cost of living and the increasing difficulty of achieving financial stability. “Affording things today is not as easy as it was for previous generations,” Sydor noted, reflecting the sentiments of many young people today.

Overall, the insights shared by these students underscore the complexities of the current educational landscape. As they prepare for their futures, balancing ambition with the realities of a changing world remains a significant challenge. Their experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by today’s youth in an increasingly digital and competitive society.