Why What You Studied in School May Not Be What You End Up Earning With

For many of us, the path from school to career is never a straight line. You might spend years studying one subject in the classroom, only to discover later that your actual source of income comes from something completely different. At first, this may feel confusing or even discouraging, but in reality—it’s very common.

Here are a few reasons why:

1. The Job Market Changes Faster Than School Curriculums
   What was in high demand when you started school may no longer be relevant by the time you graduate. Meanwhile, new industries, technologies, and opportunities keep emerging.

2. Your Skills May Outweigh Your Degree
   Employers and clients often care more about what you can do than the certificate you hold. A degree is valuable, but practical skills can open unexpected doors.

3. Passion Shapes Your Earning Path
   Sometimes, what you studied was not really your passion—it was just the available choice. As you grow, you may discover talents that naturally attract opportunities and income.

4. Entrepreneurship Is Rising
   More people are turning their skills and creativity into businesses. In this case, your school background may only play a supportive role while your real earnings come from something different.

At the end of the day, education is never wasted—it shapes your thinking and discipline. But your income often comes from how you apply skills, creativity, and opportunities outside the classroom.

That’s why we at 9jaFoodFiesta Empowerment are focused on equipping youths, women, and persons with disabilities with practical skills in ICT, Agriculture, Fashion, and Culinary Arts—skills that put food on the table and create self-reliance.