The disillusionment among recent college graduates is profound, revealed in a New York Times investigation. Political observers noted young voters overwhelmingly backed Zohran Mamdani's mayoral campaign, seeing him as a solution to crippling student debt, unaffordable housing, and a stalled job market. Peter Thiel's critique, that graduates possess 'useless degrees' and face 'long odds of owning a home,' resonates deeply. Student debt has escalated over decades, while housing in cities like New York and San Francisco becomes increasingly inaccessible.

Crucially, the unemployment rate for recent graduates has exceeded the national rate for five straight years, a stark reversal from pre-2000 norms. This economic stagnation predates AI's impact, leaving graduates feeling betrayed by promises of middle-class prosperity. Dylan Burton's $70,000 debt for a video game design degree exemplifies the gamble many took, only to find themselves in roles like barista, their degrees underutilized. The gap between the 'college for all' dream and harsh economic realities fuels widespread anger.