A Boomer Professor Defends Gen Z Athletes: Why Your Hard Work Might Feel Pointless

As a student-athlete, you’re constantly told that hard work and dedication will pay off. But what happens when the goalposts seem to be moving? A new article suggests that for your generation, the traditional path to success might not be so clear anymore. A New York University professor, Suzy Welch, is stepping up to defend Gen Z, arguing that their so-called “laziness” is really just a sign of frustration and a fear that the world won’t reward their efforts.

The American Dream is Changing

Older generations were raised to believe that if they went to college and worked hard, they would land a good job, buy a house, and have financial security. But Welch says that for Gen Z, that promise has been broken.

• Sky-High Costs: You’re facing student loans that are bigger than ever and a housing market where buying a home feels impossible.
• Economic Uncertainty: The world is constantly changing, with new technologies like AI disrupting traditional career paths, which can make a four-year degree feel less secure.
• Bigger Worries: Beyond personal finances, many of you are concerned about global issues like climate change. The feeling that the world might be on a path to a major crisis can make long-term career planning seem less important.

Welch argues that instead of calling Gen Z lazy, older generations should try to understand the “vulnerability and sadness” that comes from facing these challenges.

Why Your Dedication Matters

While some older critics, like actors Jodie Foster and Whoopi Goldberg, have called out your generation for a lack of work ethic, others are backing you up. As a student-athlete, you already understand what it means to put in the work, to be part of a team, and to push through tough times. These are the very qualities that can help you navigate a changing world.

So, when you hear criticism about your generation, remember that your dedication on the field, in the weight room, and in the classroom is preparing you for a future that is different from your parents’. Your hard work may not lead to the same outcomes they experienced, but it is building a foundation of skills that will be incredibly valuable no matter what the future holds.