Linearity of Education and Career: Is it Still a Measure of Success?

NISRINA ISNAWATI (30802300024)

Figure. 1
Source: Swiss German University. Fakta Mengapa Jurusan Bisnis Menjadi yang Paling Populer di Antara Semua Mata Kuliah. SGU. 2019.

Since long ago, we have been taught one sure way to achieve success, namely by studying diligently, continuing our studies in a major that “guarantees a future,” and then working in a field related to our studies. It is as if we are living with a clear map, and our educational path must end in a suitable career. However, in today's fast-paced and dynamic world of work, the question is: is the linear relationship between education and career still relevant as a measure of success?

In publications “The Causes and Consequences of Field-of-Study Mismatch”, by the OECD shows that workers educated in a particular field often work in other fields (field-of-study mismatch). This study also highlights that the cause of this mismatch is not solely on the individual side, for example, study choices, but also on the labor market demand side, such as whether the market absorbs workers from that field.

Many studies show that the way we view careers has changed; it is no longer a rigid, straight path, but rather more diverse. Nowadays, many people pursue professional paths that do not always align with their initial education. This means that the definition of career success has also shifted; it is no longer just about promotion or a permanent position, but also about personal satisfaction and the ability to adapt to various changes (Russo et al., 2023).

If we look at the present, success is now multidimensional. It is no longer measured by how well a job matches one's college major, but rather by the extent to which a person's abilities, interests, and contributions have a positive impact on society. In this era of ever-evolving technology and innovation, career changes are not only common, but necessary.

However, the problem is that many people are still trapped by social pressure. Many young people feel guilty when they want to change direction because they fear being seen as “wasting their education.” Yet there is nothing wrong with changing course. A teacher who becomes an entrepreneur, or a biology graduate who succeeds as a farmer, are not examples of failure; they prove that success can take unexpected forms.

Changing careers is not easy. It requires courage, humility, and a willingness to continue learning. However, that is where its true value lies. An ever-changing world does not need people who simply follow old patterns, but those who dare to create their own path. Ultimately, the linear relationship between education and career can no longer be used as the main measure of success. Today, success takes many forms, as seen in how happy we are, how meaningful our work is, and how well we can adapt to change. It is time we stop judging life by how “straight” its path is, and start valuing the courage to take a different path. Because often, it is the winding path that leads us to the most valuable destination.