Why Wouldn't You Expect It?

The idea that success in tech is solely based on where one graduated from has been widely debated. In my industry, it is often observed that those advancing quicker and being more respected are not necessarily from elite colleges. Instead, most of them come from state universities ranked between 100-175. This phenomenon is not just an anecdotal observation; it has been tested through several empirical studies.

Empirical Evidence

Several years ago, a study was conducted following two groups of students. The first group attended prestigious, expensive Ivy League universities, while the second group was accepted into these same universities but chose to go to state colleges instead. Remarkably, in 10 years, both groups were earning the same amount of money. This finding suggests that the magic sauce in one's success lies not in the cost or the name of the educational institution, but in the individual's capabilities and efforts.

The success of those who chose state universities might be attributed to several factors. For one, the cost of attending these institutions might allow them to invest more time and resources into practical experience and real-world projects. Additionally, the challenges faced in state universities often foster a strong sense of perseverance and resilience, qualities highly valued in the tech industry.

Post-Graduation Reality

Once they enter the workforce, employers focus more on the value and skills that candidates bring, rather than where they obtained their degrees. I have a Master’s in Computer Science, and I have worked with developers who do not have a degree at all. The value one adds to a company through their skills and contributions is more important than the institution they graduated from.

Furthermore, many of the so-called “elites” are now so politically left-leaning that the educational value of their degrees is questionable. Having an elite university on one's resume is seen as a black mark by some employers. If someone from California applied with an Ivy League university listed on their application, it might be dismissed.

The Appeal to Authority Fallacy

The assertion that elite universities provide a higher quality of education cannot be substantiated through a simple appeal to authority. The information presented at elite colleges is not necessarily any different from that at state universities. What matters is how the facts and skills are applied, not where they were learned.

Many criticize the high costs of the first two years at elite colleges, pointing out that the core curriculums are similar to those at community colleges. The argument is that spending more money for the same information does not make it better. Instead, it might be advisable to start at a community college, spend less, and then transfer to a more prestigious school. The elitist attitude that deems spending more money as producing superior education is fundamentally flawed.

In conclusion, success in tech is not predetermined by the institution one graduates from. The true magic sauce lies in the individual's dedication, practical skills, and ability to innovate. The rising star engineers and respected industry professionals often come from a diverse range of educational backgrounds, emphasizing that the path to success in tech is varied and not limited to elite universities.