Even after a coronavirus vaccine is discovered, as we throw away our masks for good and finally hug our friends, the legacy of this pandemic will continue to be felt. Even as we return to "normalcy," there may be parts of life as we knew it that never return. As teenagers, we are now caught in the challenging position of trying to prepare ourselves to work in an uncertain world. While I, or anyone else for that matter, cannot tell you exactly what life will look like when this all ends, here are the career fields most likely to thrive and struggle post-pandemic.
Will Thrive: Tech
This pandemic has forced us to stretch the possibilities of virtual interactions, and there's no doubt that some aspects of this new way of living will endure. Throughout the pandemic, major tech companies continued hiring as other companies laid off thousands of workers. Perhaps learning to code during quarantine is worth more than you think.
Will Struggle: Hospitality
As travel remains risky, the hospitality industry is continuing to suffer. While tourism and travel will resume eventually, the pandemic's economic loss may be insurmountable for businesses. In the future, working in hotels or restaurants may not be as secure a path as we once believed.
Will Thrive: Healthcare
Healthcare workers are the heroes of this crisis. However, this crisis has also illustrated the problems and inequities in our healthcare systems. The need for more health care professionals and innovators who can reimagine the health care system will be a considerable part of the post-COVID world!
Will Struggle: Retail
While online shopping has been killing retail for years, COVID-19 might very well be the straw that 'will break the camel's back. Around the country, brick-and-mortar stores are closing at an alarming rate. By the time you feel comfortable going back to the mall, it may not be there to greet you.
Will thrive: Delivery Services
Wary of COVID exposure, many Americans have turned to services such as Amazon Fresh, Instacart, and GoPuff to deliver their essentials. While panic-buying can account for some of the growth of these services, many Americans may continue to opt for these convenient services after the pandemic ends.
Will struggle: Movie Theaters
Forced to experiment with home-releases amid the pandemic, Hollywood production companies are now questioning if the box office is necessary. With many Americans still wary of spending a few hours in a room next to strangers, major companies like AMC are worried about their survival.
