‘I didn’t get a graduation’: How the Class of 2020 turned their pandemic loss into a running joke on TikTok
Fast Company Tech
by Eve Upton-ClarkFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Class of 2020 has turned their canceled graduations due to the COVID-19 pandemic into a viral TikTok trend, using humor as a coping mechanism. The trend involves referencing the loss of key milestones like prom and graduation in response to various scenarios, blending self-referential jokes with broader cultural trends such as the "glass half full or empty" meme. This reflects Gen Z's unique way of processing trauma through humor and shared online experiences.
The pandemic upended the lives of the Class of 2020, particularly their transition to adulthood. Their senior year was marked by canceled events, remote learning, and a global health crisis that disrupted social lives, finances, and career plans. Unemployment rates for young people spiked, and entering the workforce during a recession has long-term consequences, including lower earnings and lasting economic impacts.
This trend highlights how the Class of 2020 is reclaiming their narrative through humor, turning a challenging experience into a shared cultural reference. For those interested in design or tech, this phenomenon underscores the power of digital platforms like TikTok in shaping viral trends and youth culture. It also illustrates how younger generations are using creativity and wit to navigate collective challenges, making it a fascinating subject for understanding contemporary social dynamics and digital engagement.
Verticals
designtech
Originally published on Fast Company Tech on 2/21/2026