Do Polish Men frown upon women who do not have a higher education?

I'm currently dating a young Polish man. As it goes I love everything about him. I work in the U.S. as a cosmetologist, and he is finishing his last year at the University as a Chemist in Poland.

Long story short we were joking about an exam he has to take today, and I played dumb about the subject. He found it humorous. Then I told him if he ever needed help studying about the chemicals involved in haircare to let me know. Of course it was a joke, an obvious joke. And he replies with a dry, short reply of, "I do not use this in my field, and I do not like to learn about useless subjects."

I felt about 3 inches tall. No I did not go to college. But no that does not mean I am stupid. I could go on and on about my credentials and resumé, but I have nothing to prove. I was just taken back by his words. I suddenly felt.....useless. I know the Polish culture takes education very seriously, and I respect that. But are you frowned upon if you do not have a higher education or degree?

No, not really.

No. His words however are a taste of things to come if you stay with him. A certain type of man everywhere is so insecure that they try to put their partners down.


Most Poles, whether men or women, don't complete higher education and those that do often end up with Micky Mouse degrees that have grand titles.

This man seems one to throw back.

I think education is really important to some Poles. If his parents are well educated, the cosmetology might not measure up. But in the end, you might win them over; hard work and common sense count for a lot.

Some Poles value education, some don't. Your boyfriend may have been stressed about his final year at university and not appreciated your humour; I would not make any judgments about him at this point in time.

Whatever happens don't undervalue yourself. If you are hardworking and honest you are as good as anyone and better than some!!! An interest in life and the world is a greater sign of intelligence than a BSc!!

I would agree with this assessment 30+ years ago but not now. I mean the meaningless titles.
Higher Education institutions are still evolving but under the "supply and demand" rules, nothing is free.
What's the point graduating and have Zero chance of getting the job.
I have female friend who is studying psychology in Cracow 3rd year now, and she is asking this question, "what's the point"?

She went studying under the pressure of family.
if the parents (one or both) have higher education, there is that pressure that you must get one too.

And to ab123usaro, tell your partner that he was out of line, I would stress strongly how much he hurted you.

If anything, it's got worse now the market's involved. There are now degrees in 'Diplomacy and International Relations' that are advertised on the bus. Plus scandal after scandal about degrees that are almost impossible to fail.


Agreed. He was putting her down, and at least her qualification is one that leads to a job.