In a reality check that resonates with students nationwide, a top-performing Delhi University student recently took to LinkedIn to express her disillusionment after failing to secure an internship—despite holding an impressive academic record and a long list of achievements. Her post, which has since gone viral, has sparked a broader conversation about the value of skills versus marks in today’s competitive and rapidly evolving job market.

The student, currently in her first year at Hansraj College, shared that she is a college topper, has earned 50 certificates, and even holds 10 medals. Yet, when it came to applying for internships, none of those accolades seemed to open doors. Her candid post detailed the emotional and professional toll this rejection has taken, highlighting a disconnect between traditional academic success and real-world employability.

A Shocking Reality for High Achievers

The student began her LinkedIn post by stating, “This is the brutal truth.” She expressed her frustration over how, despite excelling academically and participating in a wide array of extracurricular activities, she still received multiple rejections when applying for internships. Her words struck a chord with many other students and professionals who have faced similar setbacks.

In her post, she described the emotional rollercoaster of being proud of her academic accomplishments, only to realize they held little weight in the eyes of employers. “I have worked so hard, but when it came to internships, I felt invisible,” she wrote. “I thought my marks, certificates, and medals would speak for themselves. Apparently, they don’t.”

Her message served as a wake-up call to both students and educational institutions. It brought to light the growing importance of real-world skills, networking, and industry exposure—factors that many top-ranking students often overlook in their pursuit of academic excellence.

The Skills Versus Marks Debate

The viral post has reignited an age-old debate: Do marks matter more than skills, or vice versa?

While good grades remain essential for establishing a strong foundation, many professionals and industry experts argue that practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability often hold more value in actual work environments. Employers today are increasingly seeking candidates who can demonstrate creativity, initiative, and hands-on experience, especially in roles that demand flexibility and quick thinking.

Commenters on LinkedIn echoed this sentiment. One user noted, “The industry is not looking for your academic marks anymore. It’s about what you bring to the table—your communication skills, your mindset, your ability to solve problems.” Another professional wrote, “I’ve interviewed candidates with lower marks but greater clarity and vision. Skills can’t be quantified on paper.”

The Growing Importance of Internships

Internships have become a crucial bridge between academics and professional life. They offer students a chance to gain firsthand experience, develop soft skills, and build networks that can lead to future opportunities. For many, internships are the first real test of their employability, regardless of how well they performed in classrooms.

This is why the Hansraj College student’s experience is particularly telling. Despite being at the top of her class and holding multiple awards, she struggled to find companies willing to offer her a chance to prove herself in a practical setting. The incident has prompted many to question whether academic institutions are doing enough to prepare students for the real world.

“Colleges must shift their focus from just producing toppers to grooming industry-ready professionals,” commented one academic on the post. “The curriculum must evolve to incorporate real-world applications, collaborative projects, and opportunities to explore different industries.”

Employers Speak Up

In response to the growing attention the post received, several recruiters and HR professionals chimed in with their insights. Many acknowledged that while academic achievements are still appreciated, they do not guarantee job readiness.

“A candidate with 90% marks but no exposure to teamwork, deadlines, or client communication might not be effective in the workplace,” said an HR executive from a multinational firm. “We look for individuals who show potential through experiences—internships, volunteering, part-time jobs, or personal projects.”

Recruiters also emphasized the value of well-crafted resumes and strong digital presence. “Having certificates is one thing, but how you present your accomplishments matters just as much,” added another HR consultant. “If you have 50 certificates, which ones are relevant to the job you’re applying for? Can you explain the skills you gained through each?”

Students Reflect and Recalibrate

The viral post has prompted a wave of reflection among students across the country. Many shared similar experiences of rejection despite strong academic profiles. Some admitted they had underestimated the importance of internships and soft skills until they found themselves in the same position.

“I focused so much on my CGPA that I never thought about internships until it was too late,” one student commented. Another wrote, “We are taught that marks are everything, but the real world plays by different rules. It’s time to adapt.”

Several LinkedIn users also offered constructive advice, urging students to start early in building their portfolios. Suggestions included working on real-world projects, contributing to open-source platforms, attending industry webinars, and networking with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn.

A Broader Systemic Issue?

This incident also exposes a broader systemic issue within the Indian education system: an overemphasis on rote learning and examination scores. Critics argue that while the system rewards academic diligence, it often neglects to develop the critical life and employability skills that students need after graduation.

“The education system is not broken, but it is outdated,” said a career counselor. “We need to move beyond the obsession with marks and embrace a more holistic approach to learning. Skills, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and initiative should be equally emphasized.”

Moving Forward

As the post continues to spark conversations online, one thing is clear: the path to success is no longer paved solely with academic brilliance. Students must take a more balanced approach—blending classroom learning with skill development, networking, and hands-on experience.

For the student at the center of this story, her courageous post may have started with disappointment, but it has clearly led to an awakening—both for herself and countless others navigating similar challenges. And in some ways, that’s an achievement no medal or certificate could ever quantify.