Career services are changing. Where they once focused on job fairs and resume reviews, many colleges are now teaching students how to write professional emails, handle workplace conversations, and manage expectations about time, effort, and accountability. The Washington Post argues that, this shift reflects a growing awareness that Gen Z is entering the workforce with different experiences, and assumptions, than previous generations.  

According to a 2024 Intelligent.com survey, over half of managers say they’re frustrated by Gen Z workers, and more than a quarter would avoid hiring them. Complaints range from missed deadlines to self-care requests that clash with traditional workplace norms. But colleges say the issue is less about laziness and more about a lack of exposure to conventional workplace structures, especially for students who spend key years learning remotely. 

At Wake Forest, Johns Hopkins, and Roanoke College, career prep now includes practical lessons on everything from thank-you notes to how to enter and exit a conversation at a networking event. Schools are also teaching students to think about values and well-being, not just job titles. The goal is to help them balance work with the rest of life, and communicate clearly about what they need. 

Some employers are adjusting. Others expect young professionals to meet established norms. Either way, colleges are responding to a generation shaped by pandemic disruption, social media, and economic uncertainty. They aren’t just offering career advice anymore; they’re providing the basic toolkits for navigating work on new terms.