Unconventional Graduation Ceremony Celebrates College Dropouts in San Francisco

At an unconventional graduation ceremony for college dropouts, feelings ran high as many attendees echoed a bold statement: “F— school,” voiced by dropout and tech entrepreneur Haz Hubble. This sentiment encapsulated the event’s atmosphere, highlighting a collective departure from traditional educational norms.

While the term “dropout graduation” may seem tongue-in-cheek, the gathered crowd in San Francisco’s Marina Theater embraced the occasion as a defining moment of liberation. They celebrated their choice to reject conventional expectations surrounding higher education.

A Diverse Crowd of Non-Traditional Graduates

A diverse group of individuals, primarily in their twenties, attended the event dressed in casual attire ranging from button-ups to everyday dresses. Some chose to don caps and gowns as a nod to traditional ceremonies, but all shared a common belief: college is not a universal path to success.

Cory Levy, founder of the Z Fellows program, spoke at the event about the innate ability of young people to question established norms. He remarked, “Our natural instinct as children is to question everything: authority, tradition, the status quo. However, when it comes to college, we stop questioning it. This is a room full of exceptions,” he noted.

The Rise of Skepticism Towards Traditional College Paths

The success of high-profile college dropouts, such as Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and Mark Zuckerberg, looms large over the college landscape. Their achievements spark doubt about the necessity of a traditional degree, encouraging many to explore alternative educational paths.

As skepticism towards conventional college routes grows, individuals are increasingly opting for trade schools, apprenticeships, and online learning programs. This growing trend reflects a shift in values among young people who are eager to pursue practical skills that lead to lucrative careers.

The Standard highlighted that this skepticism is particularly pronounced in tech hubs like San Francisco, where many employers place less value on formal degrees. In fact, companies in the tech sector are often more interested in skills and experience than a four-year college education.

As job seekers increasingly encounter barriers to entry, such as lack of relevant experience or unprofessional attitudes among recent graduates, the demand for non-traditional paths continues to rise. Graduates of four-year programs often face challenges as employers adapt to changing labor dynamics, including the increasing efficiency of AI in various sectors.

Defying Expectations in a Traditional Education System

For many members of Generation Z, the traditional college experience has lost its allure. This group, characterized by their willingness to challenge authority, embraces the label of the “toolbelt generation.” They prefer acquiring skills that translate directly into high-paying jobs, circumventing the high costs associated with a four-year college degree.

Ken Rusk, author of