Beyond the Emerald City: Essential Skills and General Education Matter in Higher Education
Higher education has always grappled with a fundamental question: What kind of graduates are we trying to produce? While specialized skills are undeniably important, a graduate who is highly trained in one area but lacks adaptability, problem-solving skills, or ethical reasoning may find themselves struggling when confronted with challenges that don’t have a clear-cut answer.
As someone who has loved Wicked—both the book and the musical—for years, I couldn’t help but view the story through the lens of higher education. Watching Elphaba’s journey unfold yet again, I was struck by how much she embodies the kind of student we hope to see in our classrooms. Not just because she’s talented, but because she represents the qualities that make a learner truly exceptional. Wicked isn’t just a story about magic; it’s a story about growth, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge in the face of adversity. And if higher education is doing its job right, it should be helping students develop these very same qualities.
When Elphaba arrives at Shiz University, her goals are straightforward: keep an eye on her sister, develop her magical abilities, and (hopefully) impress the right people so she can work alongside the Wizard to make Oz a better place. She is, in many ways, the ideal student—driven, intelligent, and eager to learn. But, like so many students stepping onto a college campus for the first time, she quickly realizes that success isn’t just about mastering the material in front of her. It’s about understanding the power structures at play, learning how to challenge injustice, and figuring out how to use her skills in a world that doesn’t always reward talent alone.
The Emerald City represents the future every student is told awaits them—the promise of a fulfilling career, stability, and the ability to make a difference. But, as both Elphaba and Dorothy discover, the Emerald City isn’t always what it seems. The Wizard, the great and powerful leader, is just an ordinary man using smoke and mirrors to maintain control. For many students, stepping into their first job post-college is a similar moment of reckoning. The diploma may open the door, but thriving in the workforce requires far more than technical knowledge. It demands the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate the complexities of different industries, expectations, and ethical dilemmas.
Elphaba learns quickly that raw talent alone isn’t enough. Her ability to succeed doesn’t come just from her magical prowess—it comes from her curiosity, adaptability, and unwillingness to accept things at face value. She questions what she’s taught, challenges authority when necessary, and, when faced with injustice, refuses to back down, even when it costs her everything.
Today's students might not need to fly on a broomstick or lead an army of flying monkeys, but they do need to navigate complex work environments, solve unpredictable challenges, and collaborate with people from all walks of life.
A well-rounded education doesn’t just prepare students for a single job; it equips them with the broader skills they’ll need to apply their expertise in meaningful ways. It ensures that they don’t just know what to do, but also how to approach problems, work with others, and make informed, ethical decisions.
So, let’s take a closer look at these essential qualities— the very ones that help Wicked's heroine stand her ground and reshape her world—can equip today’s students to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
Communication and Collaboration
Elphaba effectively communicates her message of equality and justice, building alliances with unlikely allies like Glinda. She learns to collaborate with others, recognizing the strengths of her companions and working together toward a common goal. Her ability to form connections with people who initially oppose her demonstrates the importance of effective communication in overcoming differences, building trust, and creating meaningful change. Given today’s increasingly online (and text-based) environment, it’s never been more important to be an effective communicator. Being able to clearly articulate questions, capabilities, and instructions is no longer just a “desirable” skill—it’s essential. Whether it’s in the workplace, resolving conflicts, or even just ensuring your group chat doesn’t descend into chaos, strong communication can make or break success.
Creativity and Innovation
Elphaba's revolutionary ideas and her ability to challenge the status quo demonstrate the power of creative thinking. She develops innovative spells, like the Defying Gravity spell, that challenge the existing power structure. Her refusal to accept limitations and willingness to explore uncharted territory show that innovation often comes from challenging norms and thinking beyond conventional wisdom. In the real world, this is the mindset that drives entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists to break boundaries. Think about organizations like Apple, NASA, or the Mayo Clinic, where pushing past what’s “possible” has led to groundbreaking advancements. The ability to approach a problem from a fresh perspective isn’t just for magical rebels—it’s the key to progress in every field.
Adaptability and Resilience
Elphaba is forced to adapt to numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her journey. She demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity, learning from her experiences and continuing to fight for her ideals. No matter how many times she is knocked down—by institutions, by betrayal, or by public perception—she finds a way to recalibrate and keep moving forward, a key trait for navigating the uncertainties of the real world. This ability is crucial in today's workforce, where career paths are no longer linear, and industries can change overnight. Whether it’s a journalist adapting to digital media, an educator shifting to online learning, or a business leader navigating an economic downturn, resilience and adaptability separate those who survive from those who thrive.
Ethics and Social Justice
Elphaba’s entire story is built on her strong sense of ethics and justice. She stands up for the oppressed, even when it makes her a target. She refuses to compromise her values, even when it would be easier to just go along with the system. This is why ethics and social responsibility are such crucial parts of education—because real leadership requires the ability to make tough decisions and advocate for what’s right. In the real world, we see this in figures like Malala Yousafzai or Bryan Stevenson, who fight tirelessly for education and criminal justice reform. Ethical leadership isn’t just about knowing right from wrong—it’s about having the conviction to act, even when it’s difficult.
Curiosity and A Wider World View
Elphaba’s journey is fueled by a relentless curiosity about the world around her. She refuses to accept things at face value and instead seeks to understand the deeper truths behind the Wizard’s rule, the treatment of marginalized communities, and even her own powers. This kind of curiosity is what drives progress—not just in academia but in life. In today’s world, the ability to ask the right questions, seek out diverse perspectives, and remain open to new ideas is what separates those who innovate from those who stagnate. Whether it’s global issues like climate change or local community concerns, the willingness to learn, listen, and engage with different viewpoints is critical for personal and professional growth. In an era where misinformation spreads faster than facts, the ability to evaluate sources, think critically, and maintain intellectual humility is more important than ever.
Critical Thinking and Consideration
Elphaba doesn’t just question authority—she actively analyzes the systems at play, weighs the consequences of her actions, and makes strategic decisions based on evidence rather than emotions. Her story highlights the power of critical thinking, a skill that is essential for navigating a world full of complexity, bias, and competing narratives. In higher education and beyond, the ability to assess problems from multiple angles, challenge assumptions, and think independently is a defining characteristic of effective leaders and problem-solvers. From professionals in STEM fields designing ethical AI, to journalists uncovering hidden truths, to everyday individuals deciding what news to trust, the ability to critically evaluate information and make informed decisions is a skill set that will never lose relevance. The world is complicated, and those who take the time to think through their choices—not just react—are the ones who ultimately drive meaningful change.
Elphaba’s story reminds us that true success isn’t just about excelling in one specialized area—it’s about having the skills to think independently, challenge assumptions, and adapt to the unknown. The same is true for today’s students. A well-rounded education ensures they can use that expertise effectively, no matter where life takes them. The world is unpredictable, and higher education should be preparing students for their first job and for a lifetime of learning, growth, and reinvention.
This is why the conversation around general education is so important. It’s not about arbitrary requirements or checking off boxes—it’s about ensuring that students graduate with the curiosity, resilience, and critical thinking skills they need to navigate an ever-changing world. As industries shift, technology advances, and global challenges grow more complex, general education must also evolve, adapting to the needs, interests, and aspirations of today’s students to remain relevant and impactful. The goal isn’t just to produce graduates who are technically proficient in their fields, but individuals who are ready to engage with the world, solve complex problems, and stand up for what matters. The more we recognize and advocate for the value of general education, the better we can ensure that students—whether they’re casting spells in Oz or making an impact in the real world—have the skills they need to succeed.