Why first-class honours graduates struggle after university
Achieving first-class honours in academics is often celebrated as the pinnacle of academic excellence.
First-class honours in academia are often celebrated as the pinnacle of academic excellence. For many, it represents the fulfilment of a dream and opens the door to limitless opportunities.
However, Hellen Wambui's journey to this achievement was fraught with unexpected challenges, self-doubt and overwhelming pressure.
Despite consistently earning top grades, Wambui recalls that her success was often met with scepticism rather than celebration.
Friends and acquaintances questioned the credibility of her results, suggesting that her exams were 'too easy'. Others dismissed her, claiming that high achievers often struggle with real-world applications.
Over time, these repeated comments eroded her confidence, to the point where she began to dread the very achievement she had worked so hard for.
Her internship experience further reinforced this, as many of her supervisors, most of whom held diplomas or bachelor's degrees, often highlighted the supposed weaknesses of high-achieving students.
According to Wambui the negativity made her feel like a target rather than a valued contributor. What should have been a milestone instead became a silent burden.
The expectation to pursue further studies added to the pressure. Wambui enrolled on a master's degree programme, but the constant cloud of doubt and external negativity eventually led to burnout and a mental breakdown.
"I decided to take time off, as it was necessary for me to rebuild and reframe my academic journey — not as a burden, but as a source of pride," she says.
Human Resources specialist Alex Kamau, says, such hostility often stems from insecurity within workplaces rather than the system itself.
"Colleagues may feel threatened by high achievers, fearing they could be overshadowed or even replaced. Unfortunately, this means many graduates encounter resistance not from decision-makers, but from peers who project their own fears," he says.
Mr Kamau advises young professionals who are facing similar challenges to avoid hiding their brilliance. Instead, they should continue to apply for opportunities that play to their strengths.
“The key is to keep sending out CVs and not allowing fear or negativity to limit one’s potential. Eventually, the right environment and the right leaders will recognise and appreciate excellence,” he notes.
Overcoming these challenges, he says, requires resilience, self-belief and persistence.