Choosing Your Path in this Digital Age: Degree vs Social Media Influencer

In this digital age, scrolling through social media has become a daily ritual for many. Each time we scroll through social media, our eyes are all hooked to live videos shared by influencers. They either broadcast their live experiences, expertise in certain skills, products’ review, lifestyle, or just their thoughts to be shared to their avid followers.

Amid the economic growth and workforce needs, there is an intriguing trend emerges: blooming school leavers are considering a career as social media influencers. They are interested in this alluring path due to the stories and experiences shared by current social media influencers whom they idolise. Some of these influencers have also expressed negative feelings towards the education system, as they managed to achieve financial stability through alternative means. This narrative resonates with many school leavers, leading them to question the value of furthering their studies to the tertiary level.

In my two cents thoughts, pursuing a degree and becoming a social media influencer depends largely on an individual’s goals and needs in life. Undeniably, both paths offer unique opportunities and insurmountable obstacles. There are several factors to be taken into account when considering the option:

a) Education and Skill Development

Degree: Seeking a degree entails an individual engaging in academic study and honing a diverse set of skills, such as critical thinking, research, and communication. This educational path establishes a robust knowledge base applicable across various disciplines, providing a solid foundation for multitude careers.

Social Media Influencer: Establishing a social media requires expertise in content creation, branding, marketing, and audience engagement. Although these competencies are valuable in today’s digital era, they may not offer the same comprehensive knowledge as in formal education.

b) Career Opportunities

Degree: Possessing a degree can unlock multitude of career paths across various industries. Numerous professions mandate a degree as a basic requirement, augmenting one’s employability and potential for higher earnings. A degree will act as a gateway to stable and rewarding career opportunities.

Social Media Influencer: Becoming a successful social media influencer can open doors to brand partnerships, sponsored contents, and various monetisation strategies. However, these opportunities can be unpredictable and may not provide the same level of stability as a traditional career path. The success as a social media influencer depends on trends and audience engagement.

c) Financial Considerations

Degree: While pursuing a degree can be costly, it is often viewed as an investment in future earning potential. Numerous professions that mandate a degree provide competitive salaries and avenues for career advancement. Over time, the financial return on a degree can be substantial.

Social Media Influencer: Although certain social media influencers can earn substantial income through brand partnerships and sponsored content, this revenue stream can be erratic and might not provide the same degree of financial stability as a conventional career. Financial stability in this field is not guaranteed, and earnings can be greatly based on influencer’s popularity and market trends.

d) Personal Fulfillment

Degree: Acquiring a degree is a significant achievement that brings personal fulfillment and pride to many individuals. It fosters personal growth and more expansive worldview. The academic journey often leads to lifelong learning and development.

Social Media Influencer: Becoming a social media influencer can offer personal fulfillment by enabling individuals to express themselves creatively and engage with broad audience. However, the pressure to uphold a particular image or persona online can also be stressful.

Ultimately, the choice between pursuing a degree and becoming a social media influencer depends on individual goals, values, and priorities. Both paths can lead to success and fulfillment, but it is crucial to carefully consider its long-term implications and choose the one that aligns best with your aspirations and values. In the end, the stories of influencers can be inspiring, but it is essential to remember that the journey to success is unique for everyone. Whether through the traditional academic route or the dynamic world of social media, the pursuit of one’s dreams requires dedication, resilience, and a clear understanding of one’s goals and values.