Two prominent voices fed a widening debate on higher‑education value and fit. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said he’s “envious” of Gen‑Z dropouts who have the time and mental space to build startups, framing college as a potential obstacle to entrepreneurial focus. Malcolm Gladwell counseled prospective STEM students against attending elite institutions like Harvard unless they can place in the top quartile, arguing that top‑tier competition can raise dropout risk. Together the statements spotlight pressure on admissions offices, retention programs, and university career services as students weigh entrepreneurship, selective admissions, and fit.