Why Young People Are Asking for "Adulting" Classes—And What That Tells Us

"Adulting" used to be referred to as a joke—an internet meme shorthand for "doing hard, boring, grown-up things." But that’s changing. Fast.

Today, more and more young people are not just facing the realities of adulthood—they’re actively asking for help navigating it. And the response? Colleges across the country are beginning to listen.

Colleges Are Catching On

Universities like UC Berkeley, Cornell, and the University of North Carolina are now offering “Adulting 101” life skills classes. These courses cover everything from budgeting, time management, and meal planning to emotional regulation and communication—skills students recognize they need, but haven’t been taught.

And the surprising part? These classes aren’t a hard sell.

They’re full.

Students are showing up. Signing up. Engaging. Because deep down, they know what we as educators, clinicians, and community leaders have long understood: life is hard when you’re under-equipped.

Therapy Alone Isn’t Enough

In my own work—especially with young people—I’ve seen how much of what’s labeled “resistance” or “lack of motivation” is actually something else:

👉 A lack of skill.

👉 A lack of support.

👉 A lack of real-life tools to manage the daily demands of adult life.

As a skill-building specialist with a penchant for wellness research, I believe that essential life skills are foundational to long-term mental wellness. When we teach young people how to manage their emotions and their everyday lives, we’re not just helping them survive—we’re helping them thrive.

A Cookbook That Can Change Lives

That’s why I’m excited to share a resource in my skill-building community work: Leanne Brown’s incredible cookbook, Eat Well on $4/Day: Good and Cheap.

Leanne generously gave me permission to share her work in my community programs—and it’s already making an impact. Her cookbook is more than a collection of budget-friendly recipes. It’s a practical, empowering tool for people learning how to take care of themselves. It teaches not only how to cook—but how to plan, stretch a budget, and enjoy healthy meals.

Want to Bring Life Skills Education to Your Community?

If you’re a mental health professional, educator, or program leader looking for trauma-informed, engaging ways to teach essential life skills, I’d love to connect. Reach out to learn more about our tools, trainings, and community-based programs.

Together, we can build confidence, reduce overwhelm, and equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive.

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