Monday, February 28th, 2011 | Posted by AubrieSofala

Defining a generation in the 21st century

This weeks special section is about themes, ideas and events of the 21st century. For such a broad topic, I went in search of what any good journalist hunts for—answers.

I asked students on campus what, in their eyes, was the most influential theme, idea or event that has occurred in the 21st century. I wasn’t shocked by the dumbfounded looks I received. I was asking something defining, a question that maybe isn’t answered by a 10-word quote.

After the fifth person, I came to the conclusion that these answers are what define our generation. I received answers explaining why Facebook is important and why we should be aware of carbon coal emissions. All of these answers are acceptable. But I had to ask myself what will our generation be defined by?

Historically, all generations have one defining event or theme. Of course, these definitions often come in retrospect. If you would have asked my mother when she was five years old whether the Vietnam War would establish her generation as the counterculture—I’m sure she would have shrugged you off and continued her viewing of “Davey and Goliath.”

After listening other students answer my all-encompassing question, I asked my self the same question and I answered it.

Consider this section as my personal response to what I feel has shaped our generation. College graduate job hunt, the conflict in the Middle East, social media and emerging technology are all themes that have affected how we live, or will live, our lives.

Sure, my chosen themes are disheartening. No generation wishes to be remembered by a war or increasing levels of unemployment. However, this is who we are. These issues are what we’ve been dealt and how we overcome these frightening hiccups in history will become our definition.

We are a generation of movers and shakers—able to communicate and connect to others in a whole new way by using technology to our advantage. The recent revolution in Egypt has testified to this claim. Yes, we are young, but our voice is strong.

: “I would say the high rate of carbon emissions. They create negative influences not only on the environment but health wise too.” -Akwai Agooms, junior middle grades major

: “I guess the green movement. The BP spill really pushed it (the green movement) forward.” -Kade Womack, senior sociology major

: “The World Trade Center is definitely a top one for me. I know a lot of people my age joined the military because of what happened that day.” -Lauren Clayton, freshman accounting major

: “For college students, probably Facebook because everybody uses it to meet people and stay connected.” -Matt Handler, freshman undeclared major

: “I think what happen in Egypt. It opened everyones eyes to see if you want something done and you stick together–it can get done.” -Paola Hinojosa, freshman special education major

Posted by AubrieSofala on Feb 28 2011. Filed under Close Up, Special Sections. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.

Defining a generation in the 21st century

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