I FINALLY GOT MY DEGREE IN GENDER NEUTRAL UNDERWATER BASKET
The image shows a close-up of a person's face with a caption overlaid that reads, "I FINALLY GOT MY DEGREE IN "GENDER NEUTRAL UNDERWATER BASKET WEAVING" and below that "AND I STILL CAN'T FIND A JOB TO PAY OFF MY $100000 STUDENT LOAN." The individual in the image has a very distinctive appearance, with multiple piercings on their face, heavily tattooed skin, including on the forehead and around the eyes, and brightly dyed black and green hair. One of their ears is stretched, accommodating a large green plug earring.
The phrase "gender neutral underwater basket weaving" is clearly meant to be humorous and satirical. It refers to an impractical or fictitious college major, suggesting a field of study that is so specific and esoteric that it is unlikely to be of practical use in the job market. "Underwater basket weaving" is a metaphor that's been used in the United States to describe useless college courses since at least the 1950s.
The humor in the image also comes from the hyperbolic nature of the $100,000 student loan statement. While many students do indeed graduate with substantial debt, the picture exaggerates the situation by linking it to a fictional and seemingly unemployable degree, thereby intensifying the absurdity.
Furthermore, the humor might also be derived from the juxtaposition of the person's alternative look with the concept of a niche academic pursuit. The image plays on stereotypes about people with non-conventional appearances and the employability challenges they might face, regardless of their education—though it's crucial to recognize that such stereotypes are unfair and do not reflect the true capabilities or career prospects of individuals.
This image is likely meant to be a critique or commentary on the perceived value of higher education and the reality of job markets. It taps into the anxieties that many feel about investing time and money into education and then facing a difficult job search, making it relatable to a wide audience who might share these concerns.
Lastly, the humor can also be seen as a light-hearted way to address very real struggles, serving as a coping mechanism through satire. By making light of the serious issues of student debt and employment challenges, the image invites viewers to laugh at the sometimes-ridiculous circumstances they find themselves in, encouraging a sense of camaraderie among those facing similar experiences. I FINALLY GOT MY DEGREE IN GENDER NEUTRAL UNDERWATER BASKET WEAVING AND I STILL CAN T FIND A JOB TO PAY OFF MY 100000 STUDENT LOAN
