"I Get Called Donut Boy"—College Graduates Reveal How Their Jobs Differ From Their Degrees
Many people are starting to think about how their college education matches the jobs they have today. For many graduates, what they studied in school doesn't connect with what they do for a living. This mismatch raises essential questions about whether college prepares students for real-world work.
Many students choose their majors based on what they enjoy rather than what might lead to a good job. While studying something you love is great, it can be frustrating when graduates realize their degree doesn't help them earn enough money.
A recent TikTok post by Andre White sparked a trend where people share their stories about their degrees and jobs, showing how common this problem is. Many college programs don't teach students the practical skills they need for their careers.
Many people believe the education system needs improvement, as it often leaves graduates feeling unprepared for the jobs they want. This can lead to feelings of disappointment, even after investing time and money in their studies.
In addition, the burden of student loan debt complicates things even more. With tuition costs rising, many students graduate with heavy financial responsibilities. This pressure often forces them to take jobs that don’t match their interests or fields of study, which can create a sense of unhappiness and disconnection.
This conversation is getting much attention on social media, with many people sharing their experiences. Here's a look at some of the responses.
“In college, I was a communications major and now I’m depressed.”
Anthropology, Archeology, and History.
“In college I majored in Anthropology, Archeology, and got a minor in history. I was a published archeologist by age 21 and I made Dean’s list every single semester. Now, two years later, my nickname is ‘dumb bitch’ at a restaurant and I get reprimanded constantly by the people around me for being stupid.”
Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science.
“I got my associates in General Studies, my bachelor’s in Behavioral Science, my master’s in Administration of Human Services, and now I’m a stripper.”
Special Ed
“I was a Special Ed major in college. And now I’m a career planner in the Marine Corp, so I’m using my education to the FULLEST extent.”
Bachelor’s in Childhood Education.
“So I’m graduating next may with my bachelor’s in Childhood Education, but I make self defense keychains and this is going to be my full-time job when I graduate.”
Psychology.
“I majored in Psychology and now I go to therapy.”
A degree in Financial Management.
“Believe it or not, I got a degree in Financial Management. My Asian parents told me to study about money to make a lot of money. Of course I listened to them, did everything right, but find out 10 years later I was so unhappy. So after 10 years in that blood sucking boring ash job, I quit that beesh and started a meal prep company.”
Mechanical Engineering.
“Well I dropped out of college, but while I was there I majored in Mechanical Engineering and had a double minor in physics and computer design and manufacturing. And now I get paid to be an idiot on the internet.”
Degree in Advertising and Public Relations.
“I originally went to my local community college and got my associate’s degree in Liberal Arts. Then I transferred to Temple University on full academic scholarship and got my Journalism degree. Ultimately, I graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Advertising and Public Relations and a minor in Statistics…And now I sell compromising videos and photos of myself online and tell people how to fuck.”
Electrical Engineering
“I majored in Electrical Engineering and now I am an Electrical Engineer. Y’all really hate on STEM majors until we all have jobs!”
Bachelor’s in general arts with a minor in Philosophy.
“I did my bachelor’s in general arts with a minor in Philosophy, I have my paralegal license from the Law Society of Ontario, and I did my master’s in Public Policy with a focus in Law. I currently tell people not to murder each other on the internet, and sell weasel-themed merchandise.”
Psychology.
“I studied Psychology in the hopes of helping crazy people. Now I sit in a forest playing music on a UFO, talking to people who don’t exist. And I realize I’m the crazy one.”
To play the harmonica.
“In college I spent most of my time avoiding my studies learning to play the harmonica. Today I make my living playing the harmonica and the grandmother of the harmonica.”
Majored in History and I majored in Kinesiology.
“I was a double major. I majored in History and I majored in Kinesiology. I wanted to be a professor. Now I work at a Chipotle where I get in trouble for smacking bean bags and then I work at a Krispy Kreme where I get called ‘donut boy’ by adults.”
Early Childhood Education.
“I got my associate’s in Early Childhood Education, [then] I was a dual major in English composition and Criminal Justice, and I started my masters program in Criminology. But now I sell potato chips.”
Theater – acting.
“I majored in Theater – acting. And I act like I give a fuck every single day of my goddamn life.”
Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in psychology.
“I double majored in Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in psychology. And I’m now a middle school math teacher.”
Computer Science degree.
“I went to college to get a Computer Science degree to make video games. Now I educate people on autism and motivate them through public speaking.”
Many are concerned about the gap between college degrees and real job opportunities. As people reflect on their education, it’s clear that colleges need to rethink how they prepare students for the workforce.
Schools should focus on helping students secure rewarding careers that offer financial stability. While pursuing personal passions is vital, it’s equally essential for colleges to align their programs with employer needs.
Ongoing conversations around this issue suggest that meaningful changes are possible, which could enable future graduates to thrive without the weight of debt.
