degreeti

degreeti is a term that emerged from online communities, particularly on platforms like Reddit. It is a portmanteau of the words "degree" and "freelance," and it describes individuals who have obtained a college degree but are unable to find employment in their field, or who choose to work in a capacity that does not fully utilize their educational background. This often leads them to take on freelance work or jobs that are perceived as being below their qualifications.

The concept of degreeti highlights a perceived disconnect between the value of higher education and the realities of the job market. It suggests that in certain economic climates or for specific fields of study, a degree may not automatically translate into high-paying, career-oriented employment. Those who identify with the term may express frustration or disappointment with their career trajectories, despite having invested time and money into their education.

The rise of degreeti is often discussed in relation to broader economic issues such as student loan debt, underemployment, and the changing nature of work. It is a phenomenon that reflects a generation grappling with the expectations associated with a college education and the often less-than-ideal outcomes experienced in the workforce. The term serves as a shorthand to describe a specific type of career dissatisfaction and the strategies individuals employ to navigate it.