The problem is that the world isn't a perfect meritocracy. There's no objective way for someone who is in the position to give you a raise or a job can know pre

The problem is that the world isn't a perfect meritocracy. There's no objective way for someone who is in the position to give you a raise or a job can know precisely where you are on your ability and dedication curve. That's why "those people who are earning less" who happen to also have MS/MBA pieces of paper will look like a better deal. Also, those future bosses may see your extra 4-6 years as potential bad habits, entitlement and cynicism that you'd have to unlearn to be productive for them. I'm not saying it is fair or inevitable but it wouldn't hurt to arm yourself against degree-ism and agism any way that you can.