Elon Musk: ‘There’s No Need Even To Have A College Degree’
(True Activist) Tech genius Elon Musk – the founder of SpaceX, Tesla, and PayPal – doesn’t buy into the hype that in order to be successful, one needs a college degree. He admits that while having a degree doesn’t hurt, as the path ultimately exists to give one an advantage entering the workforce, he says it is unnecessary because plenty of people – such as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates – have done well without obtaining theirs.
During the interview, which took place in 2014, Musk said:
“I ask them to tell me the story of their career, what are some of the tougher problems they dealt with…and how they made decisions at key transition points. That’s usually enough for me to get a very good gut feel about someone. What I’m really looking for is evidence of exceptional ability. There’s no need even to have a college degree. If you look at Bill Gates, Larry Ellison, Steve Jobs…these guys didn’t graduate from college, but if you had a chance to hire them, it would be a good idea.”
Without a doubt, education is one of the most worthwhile investments. However, Musk makes an important point when stating that a college degree isn’t necessary for success, quite simply because there are a variety of ways one can attain the knowledge required to excel in a certain field.
First of all, now that the internet exists and is easily accessible to all, information can be acquired at the touch of a button. Additionally, one can attend trade schools or take part in an internship to learn more about their desired field. Finally, college is becoming more and more out of reach for the majority of citizens in the U.S., where tuition is not free. By enrolling in a four-year institution, a newly graduated high school student acquires a substantial amount of debt which they will likely pay off for decades due to the present job market. Acknowledging all, it makes sense why Musk says college isn’t necessary.
Just a few seconds ago was trying to explain the same thing to my mom, then showed her this article, which came out of nowhere surprisingly... :)
The Mom in me wants to know: so, are you earning money online? the only follow up needed for this article is the list of non-degree jobs that earn as much as degreed ones. It's a short list, and usually requires credentials other than the degree. A plumber's helper vs a Master Plumber, a fellow to pull wire, or the licensed and certified electrician.
It is a matter of return on investment. By no means all university degrees are worthless. But many do not give a guarantee of a decent income anymore.
Another angle is that the premise to learn all your skills and knowledge in four years and that that should prepare you for the next 40 is ridiculous. Change in technology, economy and society is rapidly accelerating and universities fail to keep up.
Meanwhile you are out 4 years, during which most young people are not building their skills and portfolio that WILL get them a decent income. Ç
The basic assumption that college degree = prosperity is a poor assumption these days... check out James Altucher http://www.jamesaltucher.com/2010/02/dont-send-kids-college/
Even with our help, my son had to work his way through college, but as soon as he had the piece of paper it translated into a 50% raise.
and his work in college was all in the same field he stayed in afterwards, so he had years of experience when he graduated
I'd have to agree with all of this. I have two art degrees and I've ever used either of them to get a job. I'm an Elon Musk fanboy, so thanks for sharing @anonnews!