The Dangers of Prioritizing Influencers Over Experts in Education

By Showkat Ali 

In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged in many educational institutions: the increasing popularity of inviting YouTubers, TikTokers, and other social media influencers to speak at academic events, sometimes in place of scholars, professors, and subject-matter experts. While influencers have a magnetic appeal, especially among younger audiences, their presence in educational spaces raises serious concerns. The core purpose of education should be to deepen students’ knowledge, cultivate critical thinking, and provide them with the tools to excel in their future careers—yet these values risk being overshadowed by the allure of viral fame and entertainment.

The Allure of Social Media Stardom

There is no denying the influence that social media stars wield in today’s world. Their massive followings and constant visibility make them powerful figures in youth culture. When these influencers are invited to speak at universities and schools, it often leads to packed auditoriums, enthusiastic applause, and, in some cases, a kind of instant connection with students who view these figures as role models. They often seem accessible, fun, and relatable, qualities that are difficult for traditional educators to replicate in the same way.

However, while influencers may be successful in engaging young audiences, their influence in an academic setting is more problematic. Many influencers thrive by sharing curated glimpses of their personal lives, often emphasizing luxury, leisure, and rapid success. Their fame, however, is not based on deep expertise or hard-won knowledge but on the ability to capture attention and generate engagement. Educational institutions should be focused on fostering intellectual curiosity, encouraging academic growth, and preparing students for meaningful careers—values that influencers may not embody or promote.

The Problem of Shallow Inspiration

Inviting influencers to speak at educational events may seem like a modern, trendy move, but it risks reducing academic institutions to platforms of entertainment rather than places of serious learning. While there is value in motivational talks and discussions about digital entrepreneurship, these should not overshadow the rich, deep knowledge that scholars, researchers, and professionals bring to the table. Professors and experts have spent years or even decades working to develop expertise in their fields. Their experiences and insights are the result of years of study, practice, and real-world application—experiences that are far more relevant to students’ long-term development than the transient appeal of a viral internet personality.

Influencers, by nature, often promote values centered on fame, wealth, and recognition, which can lead to unrealistic expectations about success. Many influencers’ stories are framed as “rags-to-riches” journeys, but they rarely present the challenges, setbacks, or long hours of hard work that most traditional careers require. These narratives can create a false sense of how success is achieved, pushing young people to focus on shortcuts, gimmicks, or the pursuit of viral moments rather than on the meaningful, slower process of academic and career development.

The Impact on Self-Worth and Career Aspirations

Perhaps the most troubling consequence of prioritizing influencers in educational settings is the negative impact it can have on students’ self-esteem and career aspirations. Young people are already navigating the complexities of self-image, identity, and success. Social media compounds these struggles by offering an idealized version of reality, where success is measured by followers, likes, and online attention. When influencers are presented as the epitome of success, students may start to undervalue more traditional forms of achievement, such as academic accomplishment, skill development, and dedication to a craft.

Additionally, idolizing influencers can lead to unhealthy comparisons. Students may feel discouraged when they don’t achieve the same level of instant recognition or viral success that their social media role models do. This can create an environment where superficial markers of success—such as popularity, wealth, and appearance—are prioritized over genuine personal growth and intellectual development.

The Case for Expertise in Education

Education should be a space where students are challenged to think critically, engage with complex ideas, and prepare themselves for careers that require discipline, expertise, and a commitment to lifelong learning. In a world where knowledge is evolving rapidly, students need access to experts who can offer them deep insights, guide them in their studies, and provide mentorship that is grounded in real-world experience. 

By prioritizing influencers over scholars, we risk creating a generation of students who value entertainment more than education. It is essential that educational institutions resist the temptation to focus on entertainment value and instead center their efforts on providing opportunities for students to learn from those who have spent years mastering their fields. Professors, researchers, doctors, and professionals with established careers have a wealth of knowledge to offer. They teach students not just facts, but how to think critically, solve problems, and develop the resilience necessary for long-term success.

Long-Term Consequences for Education and Society

The long-term effects of this trend can be far-reaching. As social media continues to dominate the cultural landscape, the lines between entertainment, education, and personal development are increasingly blurred. If educational institutions continue to prioritize influencers over experts, students may begin to perceive traditional career paths—especially those in academia, science, law, and the arts—as less valuable or relevant. The pursuit of knowledge could be seen as secondary to the pursuit of fame or digital influence, making it harder for students to recognize the value of hard work and intellectual dedication.

Moreover, this trend could have a lasting impact on the way society values education and expertise. If institutions continue to give influencers a platform in academic spaces, it may signal a devaluation of deep knowledge and the intellectual rigor that underpins serious academic disciplines. This could have broader societal consequences, particularly as the demand for skilled professionals in fields like healthcare, engineering, and education continues to grow.

Encouraging a Shift Toward Meaningful Role Models

There is a pressing need for educational institutions to recalibrate the types of role models they promote. Instead of offering students an endless parade of influencers who speak to the pursuit of fame and superficial success, schools should be inviting individuals who exemplify what it means to dedicate oneself to meaningful work, to pursue knowledge, and to contribute to society in ways that have a lasting impact.

By offering diverse role models from various fields—whether it be in science, literature, politics, or social justice—students can begin to understand that success comes in many forms. Real success is not about viral moments, but about perseverance, expertise, and a commitment to making a difference. Educators, researchers, and professionals can inspire students to pursue careers that will shape the future of society in thoughtful, meaningful ways.

Conclusion: Prioritize Substance Over Sensation

The growing trend of inviting influencers to speak in educational settings is a reflection of a broader cultural shift towards entertainment-driven success. While influencers have a place in the media and entertainment industries, it’s critical that academic institutions do not allow their appeal to overshadow the value of expertise, hard work, and intellectual depth. 

Educational institutions should remember that their primary role is to equip students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills needed for success in the real world. By prioritizing experts—those who have spent years developing real-world expertise—students can be inspired not just by viral moments but by the deeper, more meaningful journey of intellectual and professional growth. As we move forward, it’s crucial that we return to the roots of education and reaffirm the importance of substance over spectacle. The next generation deserves role models who inspire them to dream big, think critically, and build careers based on knowledge, not just the pursuit of fame.

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