Oxbridge Influencers: Making Millions Online

Oxbridge students are increasingly achieving significant financial success through social media influence, a phenomenon dubbed 'Oxfluencers.' These students leverage the prestige of institutions like Oxford and Cambridge to create content that garners large followings and lucrative incomes. Their earnings stem not only from views and endorsements on platforms like YouTube but also from offering private tuition on admissions interviews.

Ruby Granger, a 25-year-old Oxford alumna, exemplifies this trend, having earned over £300,000 from her influencing activities. This success contrasts with the struggles many graduates face in the job market, where competition is fierce and traditional career paths like consultancy are becoming more limited, with graduate job openings predicted to drop.

Experts suggest that the allure of Oxbridge, combined with a strong online presence, creates a powerful personal brand. Employers increasingly value communication and visibility, skills demonstrably showcased by these influencers. In some cases, social media abilities are seen as more vital for career progression than the university education itself.

While some influencers monetize their platforms through direct earnings, others, like Ruby Granger and Holly Gabrielle, launch businesses selling related products or sustainable brands. This strategic move helps them maintain relevance beyond their university years. However, the pressure to perform and stay relevant is intense, and the online world also exposes them to considerable trolling and criticism.