1. Sports Communication 

The Class of 2026 has always known LeBron James as the most recognizable sports icon on the planet.

LeBron James entered the NBA in 2003 and in 2004, the year many of the Class of 2026 were born, his jersey topped the best-seller list for the first time; in 2022, James’ jersey still tops the list.

Leading Support:

"LeBron James Is Officially A Billionaire"
Forbes 

 

2. Political Science 

For incoming students, Hillary Clinton has always had a more significant role in American politics than Bill Clinton.

Although older Americans may think of Hillary Clinton as primarily First Lady from the 1990s, incoming students born in 2004 only know her as a United States Senator, Secretary of State, and contemporary presidential candidate.

Leading Support:

"Hillary Clinton’s Legacy Is Huge and Lasting"
The New Republic

 

3. Computer Science 

Created in 2004, Facebook has been active for the entire lives of the Class of 2026.

Although Facebook is only 18 years old, many incoming students already see the social media platform as outdated, preferring newer platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.

Leading Support:

"What Happened When Facebook Became Boomerbook"
The Atlantic

 

4. Ethics 

Incoming students are the first generation in fifty years who must include their own reproductive rights as part of their overall college decision. 

The recent Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade will affect so many decisions for young women, who currently make up 59% of college students in America.

Leading Support:

"The Abortion Debate Affects Higher Education"
Insight Into Diversity

 

5. Global Studies 

The Class of 2026 will be the first since the “Duck and Cover” generation of the Cold War to live with the real possibility of world war and global conflict.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine echoes the experiences of growing up during the Cold War, but today’s digital technology makes the images of war much more visceral.

Leading Support:

"U.S. Colleges and Universities Respond to Ukraine Conflict"
Fierce Education

 

6. Environmental Science 

The debate on climate change is over. Incoming students are now the first generation faced with the omnipresent reality to actually effect change to combat global warming. 

Greta Thunberg has set the stage for youth activism; now, incoming students are part of a new generation increasingly demanding legal reforms to improve future generations’ lives. 

Leading Support:

"Gen Z | Between Climate Crisis and Coronavirus Pandemic"
By Klaus Hurrelmann, Erik Albrecht

 

7. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

The Class of 2026 is the first cohort in recent memory for whom knowledge about a diverse country and world is actually regressing.

Thirty-five states have recently introduced and/or passed legislation to either ban or censor teaching about race, sexual orientation, gender identity, and American history in schools. 

Leading Support:

"From slavery to socialism, new legislation restricts what teachers can discuss"
NPR

 

8. Public Health 

Incoming students are still recovering from the mental health impact of COVID and COVID fatigue. 

Mental health has been an issue for some time, but the class of 2026 is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic on their mental health. 

Leading Support:

"College Student: Mental Health Statistics"
The Zebra

 

9. Education 

The Class of 2026 is the first to realistically see the possibility of canceling or reducing student debt. 

The Biden administration has publicly announced its determination to tackle the rise of crippling student debt. Will they get results?

Leading Support:

"Americans support student loan forgiveness, but would rather rein in college costs"
NPR

 

10. Fashion 

Incoming students are aware of fashion sustainability, but nevertheless social media and influencer culture draw them to cheaper and faster options from online retailers.

Students have a better understanding of sustainability than previous generations, but their consumer choices do not reflect a strong commitment to protecting the environment.

Leading Support:

"What Do Gen Z Shoppers Want? A Cute, Cheap Outfit That Looks Great on Instagram"
The New York Times