CA, an ex-Deloitte and ex-KPMG employee, calls out education degree obsession. She says real success does not depend on ‘piece of paper’

“Degree nahi toh job nahi.” It’s a line every Indian student has heard at least once — probably from a worried parent, an overzealous teacher, or that distant uncle. But CA Meenal Goel isn’t buying it. In a viral LinkedIn post, she challenged everyone’s deep-rooted obsession with degrees, reminding everyone that real success today isn’t printed on a certificate — it’s built on skills, curiosity, and courage.

She began with a simple truth: in India, only about 28.4% of youth aged 18–24 are enrolled in higher education, compared to over 60% in countries like the US and UK. And yet, the social narrative insists that a degree is the only way to land a job. Goel called out this flawed mindset, pointing out how the world has moved beyond credentials and toward competence. “Success today depends on skills, experience, and adaptability,” she wrote. “Not just a piece of paper.”

Her post struck a chord because it wasn’t just about education — it was about mindset. She urged students to study and work hard, not because someone scares them with “degree nahi toh job nahi,” but because they genuinely want to build knowledge and independence. The difference, she suggested, lies in motivation. Fear pushes you to conform; passion pushes you to grow.

Goel’s message also touched a nerve among young professionals stuck in the “secure path” trap. She encouraged them to take the time to figure out what they truly want instead of following a path someone else calls safe. “Define success on your own terms,” she said — a sentiment that resonated deeply in a country where career choices are often dictated by family expectations and job stability charts.

Internet reacts

Many users resonated with Meenal Goel’s post, calling it a much-needed reality check. One said the message struck a chord because while degrees may open doors, it’s skills that keep them open. Others agreed that the real shift India needs is from fear-driven learning to purpose-driven growth. Several echoed that for too long, degrees were seen as the only passport to a good life, but the real risk today lies in chasing certificates without building practical skills or clarity. Many pointed out that the economy rewards problem-solvers, quick learners, and value creators—not just degree holders. They said when young people start choosing careers out of curiosity and passion instead of fear and pressure, that’s when real change will begin—and that’s the future worth building.

Source – https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/ca-an-ex-deloitte-and-ex-kpmg-employee-calls-out-education-degree-obsession-she-says-real-success-does-not-depend-on-piece-of-paper/articleshow/125063254.cms?from=mdr