Someone suggests that my son give lectures on how to do startups or on being entrepreneur. I said, to give lectures he needed more education, like at least a master degree, especially in China where people highly value degrees.
This morning I shared the thought with my sister. She said, “Not really necessary.” In China academic degrees are for job-hunting. Many people spend lifetime teaching business in universities, but having no real life experience at all.
The conversation actually reflects two perspectives on the value of academic degrees in relation to real life experience. Since I have a PhD degree, I feel strongly to advocate for education.
First of all, education exposes you to a wide range of ideas and theories, which will provide valuable insights and theoretical frameworks for you to understanding your experience. This knowledge base allows you to stand on the shoulders of the giants and see with clarity the historical trends and social models.
Second, different ideas and theories stimulate and help develop in you critical thinking skill, so you can better analyze complex problems and perspectives, the skills that are crucial in the era of uncertainty and challenges inherent in entrepreneurial efforts.
Finally, academic credentials can enhance one's credibility and reputation, particularly in places where formal qualifications are valued.
Of course, you can keep learning and maintain credibility without a higher degree. Still, academic environment can provide a great opportunity for personal growth and development.