Selective Reporting: Media and society tend to focus on the rare success stories while ignoring the countless individuals who do not achieve similar outcomes. This selective reporting can create an unrealistic picture of the likelihood of success.

Underlying Factors: Many of these successful dropouts had unique advantages such as strong networks, exceptional skills, or access to capital. Their success is often due to a combination of factors beyond just dropping out.

Broader Context: Most high-paying and stable jobs still require a degree. Higher education provides not only specialized knowledge but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and valuable professional networks.

Long-Term Stability: Dropping out of university can limit career progression and earnings potential in the long term. For every Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg, there are millions who struggle without the credentials that a degree provides.

The allure of becoming a successful YouTuber or earning quick money as a Grab rider is strong. We often see stories of individuals who have gained massive followings and substantial income, but we rarely hear about the countless others who invested time and resources into their channels without achieving success. Similarly, while some Grab riders report earnings of $2,500 to $4,000 per month, these figures often reflect those who work long hours and manage to navigate the competitive and algorithm-driven environment effectively.

Gig work, such as food delivery, can indeed be lucrative in the short term, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Riders often face unpredictable earnings, lack of job security, and no benefits like health insurance or retirement plans. Additionally, the physical demands and risks associated with such jobs can take a toll over time. Many riders will then realize that their earnings have stagnated or even decreased due to market saturation and changing company policies​.