{
  "id": 6237251,
  "title": "‘I’m surprised they even hired you!’: Man says colleague mocked him for not having a degree at 40",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/im-surprised-they-even-hired-you-man-says-colleague-mocked-him-for",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-08T00:00:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Independent Singapore",
    "slug": "the-independent-singapore",
    "url": "https://theindependent.sg/i-m-surprised-they-even-hired-you-man-says-colleague-mocked-him-for-not-having-a-degree-at-40/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In Singapore, a 40-year-old man sought advice on Reddit on how to handle a colleague who mocked him for not having a degree. The man, who usually dines with his coworkers, befriended one individual whom he shared that he was studying for a degree part-time. The colleague's reaction left him shocked, as he exclaimed, \"I'm surprised they even hired you in the first place!\" This comment, the man stated, \"felt like a dagger to the heart.\" Since that exchange, the man has noticed a change in the colleague's behavior, as they have become increasingly condescending and over-explain basic things, implying that the man is less intelligent or capable due to his lack of formal qualifications.\n\nThe man asked fellow Redditors for guidance on how to deal with this situation. Suggestions ranged from confronting the colleague, distancing oneself, ignoring the behavior, or letting work speak for itself. Some advised the man to use the experience as motivation to outperform his colleague, while others suggested simply distancing himself from the person. A few also encouraged the man not to be discouraged by the remark, emphasizing his dedication to his studies and urging him to surround himself with people who appreciate his efforts and worth.",
  "summary": "SINGAPORE: A Singaporean man in his 40s took to Reddit to ask fellow users how he should deal with a colleague who belittled him after learning he had yet to complete a degree. Sharing his story ... This article ( ‘I’m surprised they even hired you!’: Man says colleague mocked him for not having a degree at 40 ) first appeared on The Independent Singapore News .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}