Choosing fame over academia: Exploring the appeal of becoming a social media influencer.

Authors

  • Norshamsiah Ibrahim Faculty of Business Management, Universiti Teknologi Mara Cawangan Kelantan (UiTM) (Kampus Machang), 18500 Machang, Kelantan, Malaysia
  • Nur Shazweena Hani Mohd Adam Khan Faculty of Education and General Studies, UCYP University, Tanjung Lumpur, 26060 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia

Keywords:

career choice, social media influencer, educational trend, Generation Z

Abstract

This study explores the motivations of young people, in particular Generation Z, to choose career paths as social media influencers instead of pursuing in higher educational institutions. It analyses how the rapid rise of social media platforms has changed the career aspirations, offering an attractive alternative to formal education. This study proposes a conceptual framework to help elucidate the appeal of becoming an influencer, consisting of financial incentives, desire for fame and recognition, and flexibility and engagement of work. This conceptual paper provides the key insight for educators, policymakers and stakeholders, to adjust their pedagogical strategies in line with the developing digital career marketplaces. By encouraging digital learning and adhering to the current trends, educational institutions will be better able to equip students for success in a technology-driven world.

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Published

2025-04-15

How to Cite

Ibrahim, N., & Mohd Adam Khan, N. S. H. (2025). Choosing fame over academia: Exploring the appeal of becoming a social media influencer. Journal of Islamic, Social, Economics and Development, 10(71), 789–811. Retrieved from https://academicinspired.com/jised/article/view/2959