In an era where graduates leave universities equipped with extensive knowledge in subjects like economics, mathematics, and biology, many find themselves unprepared for the practicalities of adulthood. Young adults often struggle with fundamental skills such as budgeting, understanding retirement plans, or crafting a professional resume. The phrase “adulting is hard” has become a common expression among millennials and is increasingly resonating with Gen Z. To address this gap, two students at UC Berkeley, Emily Chen and Alex Rivera, have initiated a course dubbed “Adulting 101” aimed at equipping their classmates with essential life skills.
This highly sought-after class, co-led by Chen and Rivera, includes guest speakers who cover a variety of topics, from job applications to personal finance. Notably, Rivera’s mother joined as a guest speaker to discuss tax filing. “I really need to grasp this whole adulting thing and learn to navigate life,” one participant remarked, while another UC Berkeley graduate lamented, “Why wasn’t this class available when I graduated? I still don’t know how to manage my taxes, even after earning my degree.”
The inspiration for the class came to Chen when she moved out of the dorms during her sophomore year and realized her finances were dwindling due to frequent takeout meals. “We’re just thrown into the world without much guidance on where to begin,” stated Chen, 22. “Many of us feel uncertain and lack direction.”
In previous decades, high schools offered Home Economics courses, which have largely faded away. As a result, college students with advanced academic skills often miss out on learning practical life skills. As a millennial who graduated in the last few years, I’ve observed that numerous peers were completely unprepared for basic tasks like securing an apartment, building credit, or knowing what to wear for job interviews.
Alongside the Berkeley initiative, other programs such as The Adulting School in Portland, Maine, offer courses on skills like interviewing and conflict resolution, while the North Bend Public Library in Oregon hosts a six-part series titled “Adulting 101: Essential Skills for Ages 16–25.” While some may argue that parents should impart these skills, the reality is that many young individuals are left to navigate adulthood largely unaided. If colleges can help fill this educational void, that’s certainly a step in the right direction.
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In summary, UC Berkeley’s Adulting 101 class highlights the crucial need for educational institutions to equip students with practical life skills, bridging the gap left by traditional educational paths. As the landscape of adulthood continues to evolve, initiatives like these serve not only to prepare young adults but also to empower them to thrive in their personal and professional lives.