Issue date: 1/1/08 Section: Editorial

Last semester many UDC students had problems receiving their financial aid refund checks, and payment for the SEP and work study programs. Students went to administration to find out why the process was so prolonged - they received no clear answers. "I don't know…I will call you when you I here something… Your paper- work was lost…It is still being processed" were some of the frustrating answers given to students after months of remaining patient. There is a problem with communication between the students of UDC and the administration as a result of the generation gap.
Paul Stofer, president of HR Technologies, a company that creates management systems for employers, said that each generation uses "different language." Being aware of the "different language" and generation gap, can increase effective communication through out all generations.
Currently there are four generations - The Traditional or Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and the Millennial/Y Generation.
The Traditional or the Silent Generation was born between 1927 and 1945. The Great Depression and World War II had a monumental impact on their lives and their way of thinking. Traditionalists follow the top-down chain of command and write newsletters oppose to making announcements at the office. In 2001 the Randstad study implied that respect is the psychological primary need for traditionalist
Baby Boomers consist of those who were born between 1946 and 1964. Boomers have always had to compete for employment and promotion due to the mammoth number of their peers (80 million). They are competitive and assertive but hold ethics and moral values very high. Recognition is also a necessity, according to the Randstad study. Boomers are usually workaholics and define themselves through their work. They also value the top-down chain of command and hold relationships with their coworkers in high regard.
Generation X are those who were born between 1965 and 1981, Xers" sprouted when politicians and corporate leaders were scandalous. After witnessing the layoffs of the 70's, 80's and 90's they shied away from big corporations and assumed that every job was short-term. Xers are very guarded and work well alone and have I regard for the work/life balance. Directness and efficiency is a primary need for Xers.
Any one born after 1982 is part of the Millennial Generation. Millennial are group workers and have a good outlook on life. Like Generation X they also value the work/life balance and are extremely savvy with technology. They are confident and pragmatic and feel urged to take a stand for what they feel is right.

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