Gen Z is Losing Faith in College Degrees and Building Businesses Instead
Many have believed that college degrees are the key to success
Some Gen Z choosing entrepreneurship over traditional education, and their reasons are compelling.
A college education comes with a hefty price tag. The average U.S. student loan debt has soared past $30,000. It leaves graduates crippled for years. For many Gen Z’ers, starting their adult lives in debt is unappealing.
Some skip college after high school, citing the excessive costs as a primary reason. Instead, they started their own online business, selling handmade jewelry. Now, they are debt-free, and they have no boss.
Many industries value skills and experience over formal education. Google, Apple, and IBM no longer require a college degree for many positions. This has encouraged Gen Z to get practical skills through alternative means.
Some are self-taught software developers who got a job at a top tech company without a degree. By the time their peers graduated, they already had a solid portfolio, and its job
The internet has democratized education. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer high-quality courses. They cost a fraction of traditional colleges. Gen Z is using these resources to gain knowledge and skills. The skills are helpful for its ventures.
Some are entrepreneurs, credits their success to online learning. They run a successful marketing agency and has never been in a college classroom. They wouldn’t spend thousands on a degree when they can learn the same things for free or at a low cost.
Gen Z saw their parents work long hours for little recognition. So, they decided to forge a different path. Entrepreneurship gives them freedom. They can control their schedules and work on projects they love.
Some are graphic designers, started their design studio right after high school. They get to choose their clients and projects. Plus, they can work from anywhere in the world.
Social media has played a significant role in this entrepreneurship. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have created opportunities for Gen Z. They can earn money from their passions. Influencers, content creators, and online sellers are thriving. They show that success can be something other than a traditional college degree.
Some are successful TikTok influencers. They turned their love of makeup into a well-paying job. They started posting makeup tutorials for fun. It quickly grew into a full-time business. They make more money now than they would with a traditional job, and they love what they do.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the move away from traditional education. Campuses are closed, and classes are online. Many students questioned paying high tuition for a virtual experience. This led to a surge in entrepreneurial endeavors.
Some dropped out during the pandemic. They did so to start a subscription box service. The pandemic made them realize that they didn’t need a degree to start their own business. They saw a gap in the market and went for it. It was the best decision they ever made.
More students are opting for vocational training and starting businesses.
Gen Z prioritize financial independence, practical skills, and personal fulfillment over traditional educational pathways.
It wasn’t easy, but it is rewarding. They learned through trial and error, took online courses, and built a network of clients.
Businesses, too, will need to adjust. More young people choose entrepreneurship. Companies must create environments with the autonomy and flexibility that Gen Z craves. This includes remote work options, project-based roles, and a better work-life balance.
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