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How to get a job in the new normal

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How to get a job in the new normal

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our lives on a scale that most of us have never experienced before. But as we adjust to this new way of life, there are all kinds of hurdles we must face. One such challenge is how to get a job in the new normal. 

In the UK, the furlough scheme has given many people some breathing room. However, unemployment rates have also spiked, meaning many others will be looking for work. But things may have changed slightly in the way job applications and onboarding works, at least for the time being. With that in mind, we look at some of the steps you can take when looking for a new job. 

Many of the steps for how to get a job in the new normal are the same as before. However, there are some additional things to bear in mind when you’re preparing. 

Laying the foundations for a successful application is always important. And, with potential new ways of recruiting, it’s worth thinking about what might have changed. Preparedness is something that potential employers always appreciate, so be sure to consider the following: 

Do your research 

As well as looking at broader industry trends, you should also consider the specific company or types of company you’re applying to. Think about how they’ve been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. What might mean for the business now? You can read more about this in our post on what’s changed in the job market during COVID-19. 

As well as checking out individual company websites and blogs, take a look at industry publications and news. You might find insight into particular roles or spot trends that are relevant to certain companies. This type of research can help you understand the businesses you’re applying to, as well as impress potential employers. 

Refresh your CV

Whether you’ve recently applied for work or not, there’s never a bad time to dust off the old CV. Writing a resume is a skill in itself and a crucial part of the application process. By refreshing yours and making it as tight as possible, you’ll be better placed to get a job in the new normal. 

You’ll want to tailor your CV to each company you’re applying for. Read the job specs and pick out things like key skills and experience. You can then weave these points into your document, making sure you tick all of their boxes. 

If you’re looking for some help with your CV writing, check out our course on how to succeed at writing applications. It will help you with many of the essential skills you need to get an interview and secure a new job. 

Think about your aims

What is it you hope to achieve with your next job role? It’s a fairly standard interview question, but not always one that’s easy to answer. Thinking about this question in advance can help at all stages of the application process. 

Are you simply looking for a role to tide you over? Or is your next step something that’s going to help with your career? Deciding on your aims can help you find the job roles that are most relevant to you. It can also help you plan for the future, and ensure you have a thoughtful answer in the interview. 

Account for new ways of working

When you’re preparing to start a new job, it’s important to prepare for the fact that things might be different. Even if it’s a similar role to one you’ve done before, the pandemic has changed many aspects of day-to-day work. 

Measures such as social distancing, remote work, and cleaning and managing business premises have all been introduced. Again, it’s a good idea to do your research here and ask lots of questions before you start. 

Despite the current social distancing and lockdown measures in place across the world, companies are still hiring. However, the recruitment process looks a little different in many sectors. It’s therefore worth understanding some of the things you might experience when you’re trying to get a job in the new normal. 

Phone interviews 

Phone interviews were fairly common practice before the pandemic, but they’ve become increasingly popular lately. They’re a great first step of the interview process as they can save time filtering out candidates. They also give you the chance to see whether a company or job role is the right fit. 

If you’re not so confident talking on the phone, now is the perfect time to practice. You can ask someone you trust to call you for a mock interview. If you’re not sure how your answers sound, you could also try recording yourself and listening back. 

When the actual interview comes, make sure you have access to a private and quiet location. If it helps, plug in a headset with a microphone. This can help make sure you can hear what’s being said. By standing up during the interview, you’ll also sound more confident. 

Video interviews

Face-to-face interviews seem like they’ll be off the cards for a while at least. However, it’s still important for applicants and interviewers to meet, even if it’s virtually. That’s why video interviews have become so popular lately. 

Video conferencing software like Zoom has helped many of us stay in touch during the pandemic. Similarly, companies have been using it to meet and schedule interviews. It can be a more personal experience than just a phone call and gives both parties the chance to gauge whether the job is the right fit. 

Many of the rules for phone interviews apply here. You’ll also want to test your tech before you start, making sure your microphone and webcam are working. Dress as you would for a regular interview, smile, and give them your undivided attention. Again, check out our course on how to succeed at interviews for more tips. 

Online skills tests

Employers often use skill tests during the application process. They can help identify which applicants are a suitable fit for the role and company ethos. From your point of view, it’s a chance to show off your skills and knowledge. 

As it’s unlikely you will be able to go to an assessment centre in person, you’ll find that businesses might use online aptitude tests instead.  They come in many different forms and can test one or multiple areas. 

Although many of us find tests difficult, it is possible to practice them ahead of time. You’ll find several websites that let you practice all kinds of aptitude tests. So, make sure to find out what kind you’ll be asked to take and get some trial runs in. 

Questions to ask 

If you do get a job in the new normal, you might find things are a little different, at least for a while. It’s a good idea to get an idea of how the companies you’re applying to have dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Make sure to ask them about what they did when lockdown was introduced, how they protected their employees, and how they’re adhering to social distancing measures. Pay attention to their answers, as it will speak volumes about how they treat their staff. 

Employers are always on the lookout for the most talented people to fill their roles. Now is an excellent time to brush up on some of the most sought-after skills, whether it’s general or industry-specific ones. 

Essential skills

Certain skills can help kick-start your career progression. Not only are these valued by employers, but they can give you the ability to identify and take opportunities. Some people are naturally good in these key areas, while others have to learn. Thankfully, our course on essential skills for career development can help. 

With this course, you’ll explore a variety of areas that can help with your career. This includes things like using vision boards, setting goals, building networks, and dealing with change. It’s worthwhile refreshing these skills when you’re trying to get a job in the new normal. 

Tech skills 

With the prevalence of online working at the moment, many companies are looking for people with technology skills. For some, this could mean basic computing skills. For others, it might require a bit more in-depth knowledge. Either way, it’s an ideal time to improve on these skills. 

You can find a vast range of courses that focus on computer and IT skills. This Data Analytics for Decision Making course focuses on using excel to gather and manage data. It looks at a variety of key principles to help you understand data analytics, and can help show potential employers your knowledge. 

If you want to delve even deeper into a similar subject, a microcredential in data analytics for business with Tableau could be the thing. This 12-week course will give you a detailed look at this niche, as well as 15 academic credits.  

Communication skills

No matter what kind of job you’re applying for, it’s likely you’ll need to communicate with others. This could be face-to-face (from a responsible distance), over the phone, via email, or by video chat. These communication and interpersonal skills are essential for securing a job, and everyone can learn them.  

Of course, some roles require more specialised knowledge of how to communicate with customers. Customer experience professionals focus on building relationships with customers across a variety of channels. If this seems like something you’d be interested in, check out our microcredential Customer Experience and Success Management with Salesforce.

Job-specific skills

During your research phase, you’ll no doubt highlight a variety of job-specific skills that the position requires. Hopefully, you already have most, if not all, of these. If not, you might want to think about taking a course or qualification to build or refresh your knowledge. 

If you’re trying to change careers, a qualification related to that field could be beneficial. For example, with a microcredential, such as this one on cloud computing, you can earn 15 academic credits by studying for 12 weeks. 

When you’re trying to get a job in the new normal, it can help to know what employers are looking for. Of course, we’ve just covered some of the key skills that can be useful, but certain talents are particularly relevant in light of the pandemic: 

Flexibility 

Things are a little all over the place at the moment, in all areas of life. We’re all adjusting to this unusual period, and businesses are no exception. That’s why flexibility is such a valuable trait. Companies want to employ people who are versatile and resilient, who can do their job even when things change unexpectedly. 

Innovation 

In the wake of the coronavirus, companies are finding new ways to do business. With new rules, a shift in attitudes, and social distancing, solutions are needed. That’s why innovative people are highly prized at the moment. If you can show that you have creative problem-solving skills, you can stand out to employers. 

Talent

Although many industries have been hit hard by the pandemic, others have seen a surge in demand. These thriving industries are searching for talented people to join their ranks. So, if you are looking for a job in industries such as healthcare, wellness, eCommerce or cyber security, now could be a good time to get a job in the new normal. 

Independent working

With the unsettled nature of the world right now, businesses are looking for candidates who can come in and hit the ground running. By showing that you’re confident and capable of working under your own initiative, you’re sure to impress. For those looking to step into the world of financial analysis, this microcredential can help with your decision making.  

Everything we’ve covered so far is what employers are expecting to see from applicants. So what can make you stand out from the crowd? Here are a few tips: 

Know your stuff 

If the jobs you’re applying for need a certain level of qualification, it’s likely your CV already shows these off. But it’s the extra bits of knowledge and understanding that can really make you stand out. Do you have relevant experience in related fields? Is your knowledge particularly expansive? Make sure to show this to potential employers. 

Show your skills

Just because you know you have a specific skill set doesn’t mean it’s evident to recruiters. It’s important that you demonstrate the skills you have when trying to get a job in the new normal. Whether it’s through something like a portfolio or interview presentation, going the extra mile can grab the attention of the right people. 

Gain experience 

If you’re trying to break into a new field, it can sometimes be difficult to get a role without experience. Annoyingly, it’s often hard to get experience without a job role first. So, if possible, try and gain some practical know-how in your own time. Whether it’s freelancing, volunteering, or passion projects, it shows motivation and initiative. 

Follow up

With everything going on in the world at the moment, businesses of all kinds are trying to balance multiple priorities. This situation means that things like applications and interviews can often be put aside and forgotten about. Make sure to follow up with the employer if you’ve not heard from them in a while. It shows you’re keen and might just jog their memory. 

So, we’ve outlined some of the essentials you need to think about when applying for jobs during COVID-19 and beyond. Evidently, the landscape is a little different now than it was before. And although many of the usual suspects remain, there are new things to consider.  

Although there’s a lot to bear in mind, each aspect can help you succeed in finding a new job. If you’re looking for some final inspiration, we’ve outlined some pointers to help you on your mission:

  • Do be patient. It might take time for some industries and businesses to get back up to speed. Try not to get too disheartened if the process is taking a while. 
  • Don’t keep your cover letter the same. When applying for different roles and companies, tailor your application and cover letter to that specific opportunity. 
  • Do follow up. If you’ve not heard back from a promising lead in a few days, don’t be afraid to drop them a message to keep you front of mind. Similarly, if you have an interview, a message expressing your thanks can be a nice touch. 
  • Don’t get distracted. The job application process requires attention to detail. Make sure to give yourself the time and environment to make a good job of it. 
  • Do ask questions. If you do get an interview, be sure to think of some questions in advance. It shows you’ve thought ahead and done your research. 
  • Don’t limit yourself. If you have career ambitions, don’t tell yourself you can’t achieve them. Keep trying, work hard, and take a relevant course to reach your potential. 

Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Xavier Solavera

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Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Xavier Solavera

To help the world combat the Covid-19 pandemic, Alison launched the course Coronavirus – What you need to know. In order to make sure that no one was excluded from accessing possibly life-saving information, Alison committed to translating the course into as many languages as possible. To achieve this ambitious goal, Alison reached out to its community of Learners, seeking volunteers willing to use their language skills to help translate the course and spread important information on coronavirus. Xavier Solavera translated the course into Catalan and played his part in spreading free learning that has helped save lives.

Xavier, tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

My name is Xavier and I am 53 years old. I learned web design on my own, self-taught through online courses and tutorials. I am an Alison user since 2017 and I have completed several design courses which have helped me to increase my knowledge.

How did you learn that Alison was looking for translators for its coronavirus course?

Since I am an Alison user, I receive updates and newsletters by email and so I came across the opportunity to collaborate in a translation of the course into Catalan.

What was your experience of Alison before volunteering to translate? Had you studied with Alison before?

I have been an Alison user since 2017 and I receive regular updates. I’m familiar with the variety of  areas in which Alison provides online courses. 

Why did you offer to translate our coronavirus course?

When I learned about the opportunity to translate this course to Catalan, I wanted to get involved, although I am not a professional translator. I study English on my own, reading texts and using online translators. Being a Catalan speaker, and with my knowledge of English, I thought I would be able to translate the content of this Alison course. And I was not alone because the translation was completed with help from various colleagues. I’m happy with the results.

Why is it important that everyone has access to important information on coronavirus?

Coronavirus has spread worldwide faster than other diseases. I don’t know why but, from the first days, I thought that it could be dangerous for people everywhere.

Tell us a little about your method when translating.

Because I am not a professional translator, or a person specialised in linguistics, I used some free online translators, often comparing a piece of text in different translators to be sure the essence that I was translating was correct.

Why is free learning so important and why is it important to translate it into many languages?

Free learning is important because, firstly, education is a human right. Another reason it’s important is because, although free learning is implemented by many states around the world, sometimes it’s not possible to attain certain types of knowledge unless organisations like Alison make free resources available to everyone. Today, these free resources can quickly circulate through the internet and reach anyone with a connection.

Have you been learning through Alison during the pandemic? How has the lockdown been for you?

I’ve informed myself about the pandemic because I’ve been gradually translating this course since last February. I have been collaborating on the translation of this course with some others volunteers online. The lockdown has been bearable because normally I’m online for many hours a day.

What would you say to people who might be interested in translating for Alison?

I am certain that volunteers improve a lot of situations and I thank everyone around the world who work as volunteer. I am sure that without them the world would be different, and I’m certain not better.

If you’d like to play your part in overcoming the coronavirus pandemic by helping Alison give people access to the information necessary to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, please get in touch.

Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Reward Emeka

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Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Reward Emeka

To help the world combat the Covid-19 pandemic, Alison launched the course Coronavirus – What you need to know. In order to make sure that no one was excluded from accessing possibly life-saving information, Alison committed to translating the course into as many languages as possible. To achieve this ambitious goal, Alison reached out to its community of Learners, seeking volunteers willing to use their language skills to help translate the course and spread important information on coronavirus. Reward Emeka translated the course into Igbo and played his part in spreading free learning that has helped save lives.

Reward, tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I was born and raised in Aba, Abia State in Nigeria. I have a Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the Institute of Management and Technology in Nigeria as well as a Certificate in Electrical Construction from the Master Artisan Academy, South Africa. I’m currently residing and running my own business in Johannesburg, South Africa, and studying for an MBA at The University of The People. In 2014, I started Achinnor Investments Pty Ltd in South Africa. Achinnor imports and sells various types of hair products and cosmetics. In 2016, I started Rek Beauty Collections Pty Ltd. We make and sell traditional African outfits. 

How did you learn that Alison was looking for translators for its coronavirus course?

I was approached by Alison to volunteer for translating through an email.

What was your experience of Alison before volunteering to translate? Had you studied with Alison before?

I have studied and completed several courses with Alison, including Diploma In Business Communication Skills, Diploma In Project Management, Introduction To Communication Skills, Introduction To E-Learning Theory And Practice and Skills For Speaking Effectively: The Art Of Speaking. 

Why did you offer to translate our coronavirus course?

I have always been on the lookout for opportunities to give back to my community and I saw the translation as one. I believed that if I helped to translate the course into my language, it would increase understanding of the virus, the risks, and ways to reduce the spread of the virus.  

Why is it important that everyone has access to important information on coronavirus?

I believe it is important for everyone to have access to information on coronavirus because it will help them to protect themselves and others from the risk of getting infected.

Tell us a little about your method when translating?

As opposed to direct, word-for-word  translation, I focused on conveying the information in an easy to understand manner. I used spoken language translation, translating into the way the language is spoken in everyday life. For instance, I translated “COURSE” to “KỌỌS” as this is understood to mean ‘learning of a particular subject’, instead of the literal meaning, which could have been difficult to understand.

Why is free learning so important and why is it important to translate it into many languages?

Learning is vital to attaining one’s full potential. It helps in becoming successful in family, at work and within the local community. However, the cost of learning has continued to deprive many people of these opportunities. Free learning is therefore essential for the less privileged to attain success. I know of people who are intelligent, willing and able to learn but cannot afford it. Free learning means a lot to them. It is important to translate learning into many languages because learning in your first language makes the learning process exciting and more appealing to the learner. It also helps to get a quick and better understanding of the subject matter. 

How has the lockdown been for you?

The lockdown is not good news to many, myself included. The lockdown has affected me in different ways. First the good side: I have been upskilling myself, thanks to Alison’s free online learning. I have also been spending quality time with my family. The bad side: Just like many others, my businesses are closed and the cost of maintaining a business under lockdown is high. Banks calls for loan repayments, there is difficulty in accessing financial aid and much more. Nevertheless, I hope the lockdown will end soon so we can pick up our pieces and move on. 

What would you say to people who might be interested in translating for Alison?

I would tell them to go ahead and do it to the best of their ability because it is a noble thing to do. By translating for Alison, you are helping to make free learning available to many, as well as making someone’s dream come true. 

If you’d like to play your part in overcoming the coronavirus pandemic by helping Alison give people access to the information necessary to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, please get in touch.

Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Annesha Kar Gupta

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Alison’s Coronavirus Course Translators: Annesha Kar Gupta

To help the world combat the Covid-19 pandemic, Alison launched the course Coronavirus – What you need to know. In order to make sure that no one was excluded from accessing possibly life-saving information, Alison committed to translating the course into as many languages as possible. To achieve this ambitious goal, Alison reached out to its community of Learners, seeking volunteers willing to use their language skills to help translate the course and spread important information on coronavirus. Annesha Kar Gupta translated the course into Bengali and played her part in spreading free learning that has helped save lives.

Annesha, tell us a bit about yourself and your background.

My name is Annesha Kar Gupta and I’m from India. I’m an advocate at the High Court in Calcutta and I’m a law student at the University of London. I’m an author, an academician, a legal researcher and also a criminologist in English and international law.

How did you learn that Alison was looking for translators for its coronavirus course?

I received an email from Alison that they were looking for translation volunteers, so I volunteered for my languages.

What was your experience of Alison before volunteering to translate? Had you studied with Alison before?

Yes, I often study with Alison. It provides a very nice working environment, without any conflict with others. 

Why did you offer to translate our coronavirus course?

I offered because I love helping people. If I can translate this course, then thousands of Bengali people can learn about coronavirus and the protective measures which will help Indian and Bengali communities to protect themselves from coronavirus.

Why is it important that everyone has access to important information on coronavirus?

After SARS and MERS, this virus is a second generation virus and can bind to human cells quicker than previous generations. We don’t yet have a vaccine approved by the WHO so knowledge is the only power to fight against this virus. People must know the reasons behind protective measures in order to best apply them.

Tell us a little about your method when translating.

I don’t believe in Google Translate. I translated the document using Bengali Online Keyboard. 

Why is free learning so important and why is it important to translate it into many languages?

The right to education is granted to everyone by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN Charter. If a country’s constitution skips that right, or fails to implement it, then people have their right to education enforceable under international law. Free education is required because it’s a right.

Have you been learning through Alison during the pandemic? How has the lockdown been for you? 

Yes, I studied the course on coronavirus. I had a busy schedule during the lockdown. I was explaining the actions of the British Government to people about why it’s necessary to stay at home at this time. I’m also advocating on coronavirus for UN2020, which includes all UN organisations, as well as participating in Hackathon & Matchathon, events arranged by the UN, the EU, Switzerland, Greece and Latvia. I also did translation and revision work for Translators without Borders on Covid-19.

What would you say to people who might be interested in translating for Alison?

Devote as much time as possible when you are translating because if one person studies this course, then you are saving one life. 

If you’d like to play your part in overcoming the coronavirus pandemic by helping Alison give people access to the information necessary to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, please get in touch.

Harnessing Boredom in the Age of Coronavirus

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Harnessing Boredom in the Age of Coronavirus

A study published in the journal “Science” showed what people would do when they were by themselves for six to 15 minutes and given two choices: do nothing or self-administer mild electric shocks. The findings were astonishing: two-thirds of the men and one-fourth of the women chose to shock themselves rather than be bored.

Do we crave external stimulation so intently that hurting ourselves is preferable to being alone with our own thoughts? Have we forgotten what it is like to be inside our own minds?

A few weeks into quarantine, I decided to take a walk around the woods near my house, with no destination or direction in mind. I saw a swan sitting on her nest, gently tending to some fragile twigs; an old beehive high up in a tree; another swan flying above the river like a bullet, wings just barely grazing the water; and a serene grove of trees on the waterfront with a circular stone path all around, the perfect spot for a picnic. I climbed up a tree and sat there for many minutes, simply observing the shimmering lake and the swaying trees. I never would have noticed these beautiful marvels of nature had it not been for my aimless wandering, and I never would have been able to appreciate my surroundings so fully had it not been for my mindful boredom. I learned that it is possible to be both bored and happy at the same time; the two emotions are not mutually exclusive.

Contrary to the media-manipulated messages we get from modern society, it is healthy to let our minds wander every once in a while. Our brains are host to vast stockpiles of deep thoughts, honest emotions, nostalgic memories and wildly creative ideas just waiting to be exploited. When we use boredom as a tool to tune in to our deepest internal selves, we unlock all those hidden elements, becoming more connected with ourselves and the world around us.

So next time you find yourself at home with nothing to do (which will happen a lot over the next couple months), remember that it is OK to be bored. Try being content with following the crazy stream of thoughts inside your own head because you never know what you might find.

Works Cited

Paul, Pamela. “Let Children Get Bored Again.” The New York Times, 2 Feb. 2019.

Razzetti, Gustavo. “Why Boredom Is So Powerful in Your Life.” Liberationist, Accessed 30 March 2020.

Webb, Jonathan. “Do people choose pain over boredom?” BBC News, 4 July 2014.

Wilson, Timothy D., et al. “Just think: The challenges of the disengaged mind.” Science. 4 July 2014.

Bringing Ethics to Your Plate

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Bringing Ethics to Your Plate

The book, “Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows,” discusses carnism, the belief system that allows people to eat certain animals over others. If you were told the grilled meat you were enjoying came from a golden retriever, you would be immediately disgusted. If you were told you were eating pork, you would continue to see your meal as delicious food rather than a dead pig. A New York Times editorial states that we need to disconnect from reality to eat meat. Trying to disregard the truth of eating an intelligent and aware animal so you can enjoy your meal is selfishness in its truest form. There is a reason you take your kids to pick apples, but not to a slaughterhouse.

Once I questioned eating animals, one thing that shocked me was the complexity of farm animals’ feelings. According to an article in One Green Planet, cows have an unbelievable memory and form strong friendships, pigs recognize themselves in mirrors and chickens are empathetic mothers. I had the opportunity to go on a safari where I witnessed a mother wildebeest mourning her newborn’s death. She stayed by the scraps of her baby for over 24 hours showing obvious distress. For those of you that have also observed an animal interacting with the world, there is no doubt they feel fear, joy, empathy and pain.

People claim eating meat is a health necessity. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, meat is a leading cause of heart disease, diabetes, strokes and cancer. A Huffington Post article claims that vegetarians live approximately eight years longer than average, similar to the gap between smokers and nonsmokers. We possess many alternatives to eating meat that will raise the average American life span, decrease the risk of numerous diseases and improve overall health.

We need to break our wall of numbness, accept the truth and make changes. If our world went meat free, our farm animal friends would be eternally grateful.

Works Cited

Freston, Kathy. “Why Do Vegetarians Live Longer?” HuffPost, 28 Oct. 2012.

Joy, Melanie. “Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows.” Conari Press, 2009.

Schott, Ben. “Carnism.” The New York Times, 11 Jan. 2010.

Vallery, Anna. “5 Farm Animals That Are Probably Smarter Than Your Dog.” One Green Planet, 2019.

How Pragmatism Is Poisoning the Democratic Will of America’s Youth

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How Pragmatism Is Poisoning the Democratic Will of America’s Youth

This week, we are publishing the work of all the winners and runners-up in the high school and middle school categories of our Seventh Annual Student Editorial Contest. You can find them all in this column.

“How Pragmatism Is Poisoning the Democratic Will of America’s Youth”
By Edward Xu, age 16, Shanghai American School, Puxi Campus, Shanghai, China

What the 2020 election cycle has taught me is that the most hopeless candidate is whichever one excites me. Throughout the year, I progressed from falling in love with Andrew Yang’s human-centered capitalism, to begrudgingly rallying behind Elizabeth Warren’s battle with billionaires, and finally being forced to support Bernie Sanders as the only remaining candidate whose conception of human rights aligned with mine.

And now, like so many other teenagers, I am deeply disappointed — or at least vaguely resentful — with the nomination of Joe Biden. Love or hate Biden, it is impossible not to mourn the unfortunate defeat of some of the most novel policy proposals in American history by the textbook definition of establishment. While the passionate communities of “Yang Gangers” and “Bernie or Bust” voters were able to keep their candidates on a lifeline, the unoffensive and palatable nature of Biden invoked a much more powerful force opposing the optimism of radical reformists: Pragmatism.

Increasingly, members of the Democratic Party have surrendered their ideology for the singular goal of unseating President Trump in 2020. A report from The New York Times showed that after the first six Democratic primary debates, “party strategy” received more airtime than climate change — and almost as much time as women’s rights and education combined. This sacrifice exists far beyond screen coverage, as a YouGov survey of Democratic primary voters found that 65 percent of respondents believed that a candidate’s electability was more important than their stances on major issues.

When did we learn to consider democracy as a means to an end? When did politics become about idle stewardship and keeping someone else out of office? When were the human aspirations of change swallowed by our fear of failure?

While administrations come and pass, the soul of a generation persists for decades. As my peers and I evolve from teenagers to activists, any inaction will be seen as a free pass for complacency. If we refuse to abstain out of principle, our threats have no leverage. If we refuse to stray from the party line, our demands receive no reaction. If we refuse to dream bigger, our successes will always be mild.

Two things need to happen to restore courage and imagination to America’s political youth. First, reform in the voting system itself. America needs to abandon “first past the post” and transition to sensible alternatives, such as the single transferable vote, which dispel considerations of popularity while voting. Second, Gen Z-ers need to recognize the collective power they hold over the fate of our country. With a voting bloc 72 million strong, there is no need to hide behind the party sanctioned poster boy.

How Animal Crossing Will Save Gen Z

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How Animal Crossing Will Save Gen Z

This week, we are publishing the work of all the winners and runners-up in the high school and middle school categories of our Seventh Annual Student Editorial Contest. You can find them all in this column.

“How Animal Crossing Will Save Gen Z”
By Ananya Udaygiri, age 15, Shadow Creek High School, Pearland, Tex.

Generation Z was born in the aftermath of 9/11, molded by the economic recession of 2008, and polished off by the coronavirus, the worst pandemic in a century. And that doesn’t even include the mounting crisis of climate change. Or the growing nationalism. Or the gun violence epidemic. Gen Z’s childhood is rooted in issues that would be unrecognizable only a decade prior. We are no strangers to a fight. So what drew us to a Japanese video game about living in a village with anthropomorphic animal neighbors? Like moths to a flame, or perhaps more appropriately, like children to their first love, Animal Crossing has captured the young teenage heart.

Animal Crossing is a video game made by Nintendo in the early 2000s. The game’s iterations and evolutions have mirrored our developments throughout grade school, and now, when the curtains of our childhood begin to close, Animal Crossing’s masterpiece has taken the stage. Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the latest version of the game, is now a staple of Generation Z’s culture. The characters in the game connected with my generation at a level never seen before. Yet in Animal Crossing, the characters live virtually unrecognizable lives.

The basic premise of Animal Crossing is small-town living. Your character, a human villager, performs basic, everyday functions. You fish. You catch bugs. You grow a tree. Common themes are relaxation and simplicity. Even the soundtrack is purposely designed as a calm lullaby, which harks back to simpler times today’s teens have only dreamed of. It’s a stark contrast to the chaos of our lives. In a New York Times article focusing on Animal Crossing in the age of coronavirus, the author described how Animal Crossing was a “miniature escape” for those isolated by the pandemic. He labeled it as a “balm” for the “rushing tonnage of real-world news.” While that is certainly true, for Generation Z it encompasses all that and more. The characters in the game don’t have to worry about school shootings, arbitrary college admissions or the rapidly deteriorating environment. They simply… live. For a generation that has been denied safety, a voice, and now, as the final blow, the coming-of-age traditions of prom and graduation, Animal Crossing represents a Gen Z vision for better times.

There are those who seek to diminish my generation’s concerns. They cite the suffering of others and admonish us for our presumptuousness. But sadness is never relative to others. Our generation’s troubles are valid and growing. Buzzfeed News so aptly describes it as a “generation free fall.” So pick up your video game console. Load in Animal Crossing. Play the game. For Generation Z, Animal Crossing is hope, and it will save us all.

Works Cited

Brodeur, Michael Andor. “The Animal Crossing Soundtrack Is an Unlikely Lullaby for a Nervous World.” The Washington Post, 21 April 2020.

Brooks, Ryan. “The Coronavirus Pandemic Has Put Gen Z And Young Millennials’ Lives On Hold.” Buzzfeed News, 20 April 2020.

Buchanan, Kyle. “Animal Crossing Is the Perfect Way to Spend Quarantine.” The New York Times, 31 March 2020.

This Land Was Made for You and Me

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This Land Was Made for You and Me

This week, we are publishing the work of all the winners and runners-up in the high school and middle school categories of our Seventh Annual Student Editorial Contest. You can find them all in this column.

“This Land Was Made for You and Me”
By Nicole Tian, age 15, The Harker School, San Jose, Calif.

“Welcome home!” the United States customs agent smiles at me, handing me my deep blue passport embossed with a golden eagle. America is my home, where I can celebrate Lunar New Year and drive up to San Francisco five months later to cheer with strangers, united under fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Picture an American on Independence Day. Picture a Chinese. Now, picture a girl, a product of these two cultures, smiling so wide her cheeks hurt as the night rumbles awake. The dark hides her face and skin tone. Her silhouette against the sky outlines the features of a patriot.

Now, the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus has transformed part of my identity into a slur. My own president designated the pandemic as the “Chinese Virus,” a moniker that implicates a whole culture and its descendants, inviting fear and offering up Asian-Americans as easy targets.

Inflammatory language leads to violent actions. Reports of bigotry against Asian-Americans recently spiked. Clearly, this violence is misguided. The viruses are blind to ethnicity. Not every Chinese American has Covid-19, and not everyone who has tested positive is of Chinese descent.

To confront the coronavirus and alienation, the Chinese-American community has gone to great lengths to mobilize in slowing the virus’s spread. However, my community’s good will is misunderstood by some as a plea to be accepted as American, a submissive gesture from the “model minority” to please the system that is constructed against us. Indeed, prominent members like former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang have called upon Chinese-Americans to increase their efforts at patriotism to escape stigma. According to his argument, Asian-Americans must volunteer vigorously, wave the flag more enthusiastically and spin their tale into one of die-hard patriotism to prove their rights for being in this country.

Novelist Toni Morrison pointed out the truth of this strained effort to prove one’s Americanness, commenting “In this country American means white. Everybody else has to hyphenate.” Yang reinforces the idea that hyphenation means not fully American, not fully loyal, and connotes a degree of separation from being American.

The peril of social division is not just about our president and politicians’ literacy and decency, but of ours. As citizens of this country, we, born here or naturalized, are obligated to join the collective effort to stop the virus. It is also our responsibility to call out another form of pathogens in our systems and structures. The use of “Chinese Virus” is rooted in ethnocentrism and racism, which not only undermines our civility but also comes at a cost to human lives.

You and I are both Americans, featured differently, but committed equally to the well-being of our country.

Picture Americans, you and me.

Works Cited

Tavernise, Sabrina, and Richard A. Oppel, Jr. “Spit On, Yelled At, Attacked: Chinese-Americans Fear for Their Safety.” The New York Times, 23 March 2020.

Toni Morrison Quotes. Goodreads, 2020.

Yang, Andrew. “We Asian Americans are not the virus, but we can be part of the cure.” The Washington Post, 1 April 2020.

Codecademy Live: Visualize Data with Python

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Codecademy Live: Visualize Data with Python

We’re excited to share that we’ve started something new! Codecademy Live is a weekly series that features Codecademy Curriculum Developers walking you through popular courses, starting with Visualize Data with Python.

Join our Curriculum Developers live as they take you through this popular Skill Path to learn how to use Python to create beautiful graphs, charts, and other data visualizations. Watch live every Tuesday at 1pm ET on YouTube or Twitch. Join the conversation, ask questions, get unstuck, and meet other learners in the Codecademy community.

For the upcoming schedule, head over to the Codecademy Events page. If you’re joining us in the middle or you’ve missed an episode — not to worry! You can always catch up on previous episodes on YouTube.

All experience levels are welcome. If you’ve never coded in Python before, feel free to stop by to get a taste of this popular language and see how it relates to other programming languages in our catalogue.

Or, join us each week as you make your way through the the Visualize Data with Python Skill Path on your own to stay motivated and get additional help.

Bonus For Pro Members

Want to spend more time with our Curriculum Developers? Every Thursday at 1pm ET, Codecademy Pro members can join us for a private Zoom call.

These sessions are built for you — you’ll be able to call into the show to ask more direct questions to the Curriculum Developers. We’ve also done some exclusive projects based on comments and questions from our Pro learners. For more information, head over to our Events page. Look for the next “Codecademy Live: Pro Q&A session” and follow the link to register. We hope to see you there!

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