Which Matters More: Education or Practical Skills?

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#1Sep 27, 2024, 03:19 PM
Seems like we're moving into a time when employers care less about degrees and more about actual skills. Is the education system failing us, or is it just the way the job market's changing? I'd love to hear, if you were hiring, what would you prioritize? Degrees or skills?
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boss777Senior Member
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#2Sep 27, 2024, 07:57 PM
Totally feels like schools just aren't keeping up. They cling to outdated curriculums while the real learning happens online. Skills matter way more than paper degrees. You can have the best degree but if you can’t do the job, what’s the point? That's why I say young grads should really focus on gaining skills.
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0xMinerNewbie
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#3Sep 28, 2024, 01:20 AM
Yeah, I get that, but let’s be honest, most jobs still want that degree. It feels like the interview process checks your knowledge and skills, but without a degree, you're outta the game before it even starts. So yeah, both have their place. School gives you the foundation, but skills are also key.
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chris_gasMember
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#4Sep 28, 2024, 05:03 AM
For sure, we need both to land a job. Skills are critical, especially if companies are looking for specific expertise. But let’s be real, connections can get you a job even if you lack the experience. In my experience, a lot of fresh grads struggle finding work because they don’t have the hands-on experience.
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#5Sep 28, 2024, 08:03 AM
Depends on what your business needs. If you're just looking for someone to follow orders, skills matter. But if you want someone to think independently and make decisions, then a degree could be key. Each role calls for different qualifications.
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sigma365Member
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#6Sep 29, 2024, 07:53 PM
Education is essential, it's like a blueprint for a better society. But let’s not forget, upper management usually prefers degree holders. Skilled workers might do the legwork, but they often don’t get the same respect or pay.
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#7Sep 30, 2024, 12:11 AM
It’s simple really... Supply is greater than demand. Back in tougher times, not many could afford to go to school, and now schools are churning out underqualified grads just to hit numbers. So yeah, the school system's kinda messed up right now.
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ape404Senior Member
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#8Sep 30, 2024, 05:58 AM
It all starts at home and in school, right? Parents and teachers guide us, making us value education. Sure, skills come later, but theory is what sets the stage for practical application. We all have our journeys; some become employers, most become employees.
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byte_2015Member
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#9Sep 30, 2024, 10:30 AM
Yeah, it's partly a failing education system, but students also need to take responsibility. Too many chase after degrees instead of actually learning something valuable. Everyone wants a first-class paper without putting in the work.
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0xMinerNewbie
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#10Sep 30, 2024, 11:47 AM
No question, skills are necessary for success, but let's not overlook education. It does more than just teach you facts; it helps you adapt and build essential communication skills. They both contribute to making you well-rounded.
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atlas07Member
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#11Sep 30, 2024, 04:20 PM
Not the case here; even basic jobs require degrees. Fast food places want college grads for their minimum wage positions. If I’m hiring a doctor, I definitely want someone who excelled in school.
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swiftstackFull Member
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#12Sep 30, 2024, 10:11 PM
It’s just how things are; companies look for degrees as proof of capability. Skills are bonuses, but that diploma gets you in the door. They look at your school, then your skills.
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5erNewbie
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#13Oct 2, 2024, 08:31 AM
Interesting take, I'd want to see skills and experience over just a degree. School often stifles creativity and focuses too much on compliance. But I wouldn't label the education system as a total failure.
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1t5_satNewbie
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#14Oct 2, 2024, 02:43 PM
Yeah, only a small fraction have those standout skills, that 1% if you will. Gotta invest in yourself and your education, especially if you lack natural talent.
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#15Oct 2, 2024, 02:56 PM
I don’t agree with blaming the education system. Companies prefer practical experience. In tech, they're looking for real skills, not just degrees.
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maxorbitMember
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#16Oct 2, 2024, 05:08 PM
Studying in prestigious schools often ensures job opportunities. Mediocre students can shine at better institutions. Ultimately, skills trump paper, yet HR typically favors candidates with degrees.
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#17Oct 2, 2024, 10:20 PM
The reason top school graduates get selected is that they not only get a degree but also practical skills through internships and projects. It lays a solid foundation.
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yield_2021Full Member
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#18Oct 3, 2024, 03:43 AM
Where I live, skills take precedence. Skilled workers are often compensated better than their degree-holding peers, especially since hands-on training is minimal in schools.
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5igm4777Member
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#19Oct 3, 2024, 07:45 AM
Look at figures like Elon Musk who prioritize skills over degrees in hiring. Employers are valuing practical experience more now, but education is still a requirement for climbing the corporate ladder.
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#20Oct 3, 2024, 12:56 PM
Both education and skills are vital. College provides networking opportunities and connections you don’t get online. Skills may bring in the cash, but the right network can open more doors.
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