Degrees or Disillusionment: A Study of Intellectual Frustration and Brain Drain Among English Graduates in Khulna City

This study explores the growing issue of intellectual frustration and its connection to brain drain among English graduates in Khulna City. Although many students choose to study English because of their genuine interest in language and literature, they often face a clear mismatch between what they learn academically and what the Bangladeshi job market demands. Using a mixed-method, the research examines how institutional limitations such as limited academic resources and a strong memorization-based learning culture lead to feelings of alienation among students. The findings show that many graduates believe that job opportunities are not sufficient, while others are dissatisfied with expected salaries. These unfavorable conditions within the country act as strong push factors. On the other hand, the higher value given to foreign degrees and the visible success of peers living abroad work as pull factors that motivate graduates to migrate. By applying Push–Pull Theory, Marx’s idea of intellectual labor, and Anomie Theory, this study demonstrates how the lack of recognition for intellectual skills pushes graduates to seek better opportunities and professional validation outside Bangladesh.