Funny
"What, Like It's Hard?" TikTok Trend Exposes the Elitism of Prestigious Universities
In recent months, a trend has emerged on TikTok where users are pretending to get accepted into elite universities like Harvard, often using humor and satire to highlight the perceived exclusivity and competitiveness of these institutions. This trend not only reflects the public's fascination with prestigious universities but also critiques the high rejection rates and the societal pressure to attend such schools.
The Trend: Mocking the Elitism
TikTok creators are using comedic skits and exaggerated reactions to mimic the experience of receiving acceptance letters from top-tier universities. These videos often poke fun at the idea that getting into these schools is a monumental achievement, emphasizing the "highly rejective" nature of their admissions processes. By doing so, they bring attention to the intense competition and the often-unrealistic expectations placed on students.
The Reality Behind the Trend
Admission Statistics: Harvard University, for example, is known for its low acceptance rate. In recent years, it has accepted less than 5% of applicants. This exclusivity contributes to the mystique and prestige associated with attending such institutions1.
Societal Pressure: The pressure to attend elite universities can be overwhelming, with many students feeling that their future success is tied to acceptance into these schools. This pressure can lead to stress and anxiety among high school students.
Critique of Elitism: The TikTok trend also serves as a commentary on the elitism surrounding these universities. It questions whether the exclusivity and competitiveness are truly beneficial or if they create unnecessary barriers for talented students who may not fit the traditional mold of an elite university candidate.
Impact and Discussion
The trend has sparked a broader conversation about access to education and the value placed on attending prestigious universities. It challenges the notion that success is solely dependent on attending an elite school, highlighting that there are many paths to achieving one's goals.
Moreover, it underscores the need for a more inclusive and diverse approach to higher education, where students are valued for their potential and abilities rather than solely their academic background or the name of their university.
Conclusion
The "What, like it's hard?" trend on TikTok is more than just a humorous take on university admissions; it's a commentary on the societal pressures and elitism surrounding prestigious institutions. By using satire to expose these issues, creators are encouraging a more nuanced discussion about what truly matters in education and career success.
Source:
Sydney Bergan, USA Today https://www.usatoday.com/videos/news/education/2025/02/13/tiktok-trending-fake-harvard-acceptances/78542954007/