While waiting in line at a fast-food restaurant with my kids, I overheard a man quietly telling his son, “This is why you go to college. You don’t want to end up flipping burgers like these people.” The “these people” he referred to were the very workers standing in front of him, clearly within earshot of his dismissive comment.
This type of thinking reveals some troubling assumptions: that those working in service roles lack higher education, that they are miserable in their jobs, and that they are somehow lesser individuals. Unfortunately, I’ve encountered this kind of elitism before, though rarely so openly directed at the people being judged.
The Myth of Educational Superiority
The notion that pursuing college is the only path to success or respect often surfaces when discussing jobs that involve serving others or require physical labor—whether it’s in hospitality, retail, or trades like plumbing and construction. This mindset implies that individuals in these professions are uneducated and, therefore, inferior, which is both condescending and unfounded.
The truth is, a person’s educational background is a poor indicator of their intelligence or worth. Education often reflects privilege more than capability. Many capable individuals lack the means to pursue higher education, and it’s unjust to look down on them for it.
Intelligence Beyond Degrees
Intelligence isn’t determined by a degree. Some of the brightest people I know have only taken a few college classes or have never set foot on a campus. Take my friend Alex and his partner Jamie, for instance. They run a successful landscaping business, and while neither completed college, they are incredibly resourceful and knowledgeable. Alex can hold a deep conversation about economics, and Jamie is a whiz at problem-solving—skills that you might not expect from someone without a formal education.
On the other hand, I hold a master’s degree in art history, yet my main income comes from freelance writing and social media management—fields that require no degree. While I appreciate the experiences and knowledge gained from my education, it hasn’t made me inherently smarter or more deserving of respect than anyone else.
Alternative Paths to Success
It’s crucial to recognize that while college can be beneficial for certain careers, it’s not the only route to success. For many fields, vocational training or trade school can be just as valuable, offering practical skills that lead to fulfilling careers.
Ultimately, measuring someone’s value based on their education is not only elitist but also fails to capture the essence of who they are. Whether someone is a college graduate or a fast-food worker, every individual deserves respect and acceptance.
Further Reading
If you want to explore more about the implications of education and personal worth, check out this insightful piece on home insemination. Additionally, for those interested in family planning and pregnancy, Kindbody offers fantastic resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, let’s move away from judging individuals based on their educational achievements. Everyone has unique skills and qualities that contribute to their worth, and we should celebrate that diversity rather than diminish it.