An Indian-origin university graduate’s failed attempt to land a supermarket job has sparked fresh questions about whether the job market is failing young people.
21-year-old Raksha Hegde in Australia went viral after revealing she was rejected for a part-time retail assistant role while trying to support herself during her master’s studies. Her experience triggered a debate about graduate underemployment and the value of higher education in today’s job market.
In an Instagram video, Hegde expressed disbelief at being rejected, especially given her academic background. 'Bro, I just got rejected as a retail assistant. Basically a cashier!' she said. 'I’ve done a three-year degree, and doing my master’s and I can’t get a f***ing job. Are you telling me I went to uni for three years just to get rejected as a cashier?'
She added: 'Let me get my master’s degree for two years and spend more money to get a degree so that I can’t find a single job after putting so much time, money and investment into school, uni and yet… they don't want to hire me.'
Some social media users noted that being highly educated can sometimes work against candidates in such jobs. Retail employers may worry that overqualified applicants will leave quickly for better opportunities, making them less attractive hires. Others pointed out that supermarket roles often focus less on formal education and more on practical factors such as availability, flexibility, and attitude. Employers may prioritize candidates who can commit long term over those still studying or aiming for corporate careers.
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