When I was a child, like most others, only four prospective career paths felt worthy of my time: being a doctor, an actor, an astronaut or the president.
As I grew up, my dreams became more realistic. I thought more practically, playing to my strengths and taking interest in fields like journalism. I started to understand that although working hard plays a large part in achieving success, there are a variety of roadblocks that would stand in my way, and striving to be an astronaut was not necessarily realistic.
Some challenges are apparent: financial hardships of attending college, specialized graduate school and job availability. However, what I did not foresee was the political climate having such a large impact on my potential career paths.
After his inauguration in January, President Donald Trump, working with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, created the government-gutting initiative. The program is responsible for thousands of federal employee layoffs— and seems poised to eliminate thousands more.
It’s easy to feel detached from these cuts — not many teenagers dream of heading government departments after all. However, with college on the horizon for WHS seniors, students who are planning their futures should be wary, as these cuts extend beyond federal agencies.
While no career path guarantees success, certain fields are more politically vulnerable under this administration. This includes, but is not limited to, careers in environmental science, public or federal education, public health, civil service and journalism.
As a result of significant federal budget cuts, many citizens have suffered from funding losses. Reductions in the Department of Education have eliminated specialized programs, while attacks on the Department of Health and Human Services have eradicated 10,000 public health positions, according to The Guardian.
These budget cuts aren’t limited to a few departments — they signal a broader trend. The President’s duty is to ensure the welfare of its citizens, yet under the banner of efficiency, Trump is shrinking job opportunities for younger generations.
As our world shifts into a digital age, job stability is already weighing on many people’s minds. Technological advancements and the integration of AI has been worrisome for many who feel their jobs are dispensable. Instead of adding to the chaos of the already precarious job market, the president should serve as a source of reassurance to their citizens.
While the job market can feel out of teenagers’ control (a large majority still not being eligible to vote), staying politically informed is crucial to ensuring prosperous futures. It’s important to remember that the people we put in government positions have the power to affect our day-to-day lives, and that younger generations should choose careers that are impactful, not dead-ends.