Parents who graduated from prestigious IITs and IIMs are questioning whether their children need to follow the same path, saying they would rather see them enjoy life, develop practical skills and choose their own careers.
A recent post by entrepreneur Abid Hassan on X has sparked a debate about academic pressure, parental expectations and whether an elite degree is essential for success.
In his post, Hassan shared a conversation with a friend who graduated from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA). The friend said he did not want his children to feel compelled to attend IIT or IIM and would instead be happy if they chose to enjoy life.
“I suppose that is the real self-actualisation end goal of going to IIT-IIM,” Hassan wrote, suggesting that one of the ultimate benefits of attending a prestigious institution could be reaching a stage where professional success and academic credentials no longer dictate life choices.
The post prompted users to reflect on whether the freedom to choose a career and lifestyle without the pressure of prestigious degrees could be a more meaningful measure of success.
‘FREEDOM TO CHOOSE IS MY JAM’: WHAT DID ANOTHER IIMA GRADUATE SAY?
An IIMA graduate shared a similar outlook on their children’s future, arguing that a prestigious degree should not be a prerequisite for success. Pointing out that many MBA graduates, including their batchmates, eventually become entrepreneurs, they questioned whether an MBA is truly necessary to build a business.
They stressed the importance of developing practical skills and gaining real-world experience instead of placing too much emphasis on academic qualifications. The graduate added that much of their work in futuristic medicinal skincare was learnt beyond their BTech and IIMA education.
Reflecting on their journey, they said they initially pursued engineering because they believed career options were limited for those who loved mathematics. They later chose an MBA at IIMA out of personal interest and the freedom to study subjects of their choice.
“FREEDOM to CHOOSE is my jam!” they wrote, highlighting the importance of letting individuals shape their own educational and professional paths.
IS A PRESTIGIOUS DEGREE THE ONLY ROUTE TO SUCCESS?
The discussion has also highlighted a broader shift in how some parents view education and achievement. While IITs and IIMs remain highly sought-after institutions, some graduates believe their children should not have to replicate their own academic journeys to build fulfilling lives.
Other users pointed to the role financial security can play in giving people the freedom to pursue creative, intellectual and unconventional interests.
The conversation also drew reactions from people who welcomed greater attention to children’s physical and mental well-being, contrasting it with earlier parenting approaches that often discouraged children from prioritising play and personal interests.
The debate is not necessarily about rejecting IITs, IIMs or formal education. Instead, it questions the idea that a particular degree must define a child’s future.
For some parents who have already experienced the pressures and rewards of elite education, success may now mean giving their children something they value just as much: the freedom to choose their own path.
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