Five years after the economic crisis struck the continent, youth unemployment climbed to staggering levels in many countries including Spain (56% for those 24 and younger), Greece (57%), Italy (40%), and Portugal (37%). For people 25 to 30, the rates are half of two-thirds higher and still rising as described in this article. Interviews with young people around the continent reveal that the era of recession and austerity has persisted for so long that new growth will be enjoyed by the next generation, leaving this one out. As a result, many in the troubled south have two options to choose from the new European reality. They must decide to either stay home, with protection of family but a dearth of jobs, or they can travel to Europe’s north, where work is possible to find but they would most likely be treated as outsiders. There, they compete for low-paying, temporary jobs. After reading this article, with real-life examples of young adults who are fighting to keep their low-wage job, it got me wondering, “What would a bachelor degree give me in the future?” However, what’s really important is the experience gained throughout the university years, taking part in clubs and events; getting the opportunity to meet new people.
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