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Dear Mr. Gentleman: Some of your facts are correct. It’s true, for instance, that I sang in the Baltimore Opera for several years, and it’s true that I have a degree in Communications. But I’m not sure how either of those things make me a “fraud.” Obviously, you’re welcome to your opinion, but I wonder if you might be confused as to the definition of what a “fraud” really is?

A fraud, as I understand it, is a person who pretends to be someone they aren’t. To my knowledge, I’ve never done that. My entire resume – including my musical and educational background - are a matter of public record. I’ve done nothing to conceal either. Is it possible that you saw me on the tee-vee, crawling through a sewer or fishing for crabs, and simply assumed you knew everything about me, based on a one-dimensional glance? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of people today struggle with this kind of cognitive dissonance. I’m sure some such people have come here, and concluded that you were trying to pass yourself off as a “gentleman.”

As for “shitting” on my fellow graduates, that too, feels like a baseless accusation. It’s true that I’ve been very critical of the way universities have increased their tuition so dramatically over the years, and it’s true that I run a foundation that assists men and women who wish to pursue a career in the trades. More specifically, a skill that does not require a four-year certificate. To date, mikeroweWORKS has awarded over $6 million to 1,700 people to get the training they require to become welders, mechanics, plumbers, electricians, and so forth. It's true that I don’t offer scholarships to individuals who want to a university education, but that doesn’t mean I’ve shat upon them. Does it?

Mike, I must admit that I have a crush on you. I also sing, S1. I figure you could sing opera to me while you fix my toilet - my idea of a perfect man ❤❤ In all seriousness, keep doing what you do. We need people who have these skills.

I've always viewed your position as one who advocates for the trades, understanding that higher education is not a one size fits all, and that the trades are equally important to our society and economy. I was raised by a man who was born in 1911, worked hard, stayed with the SUP in San Francisco for over 50 years and worked his way up from a Merchant Marine, made a very good wage and who happened to only have an 8th grade education given the year of his birth and circumstances of his youth. He knew more about geography than I ever possibly could. With appreciation, a daughter of a blue collar worker who sees value in both forms of education.

Good for you Mike.
You are probably the furthest person there is from a fraud.
I've enjoyed your shows for many years. And read two of you mom's books. Y'all are great. Thank you for sharing yourselves with us.

As always Well spoken Mike Rowe 👏
A man of true good character 👏

I commend you Mike college isn’t for everyone. I being a plumber had to serve a 5 year apprenticeship in the state of Washington before I could test to be a state licensed plumber

Not all people with degrees are brilliant. Not all people without are stupid. However, each one of us have a purpose and abilities that are God given. We need to learn to use these abilities to help one another through this world and to the next! Just trust God and he will get you through it all with help from his people.

I love love love Mike Rowe and his shows!!!!!

You are a down to earth, common sense man with high ideals, that I would safely assume you received from both of your parents. You have a strong work ethic, which you have proven time and time again. Your education and singing ability has nothing to do with it.

Everyone pretty much covers how I feel about Mike Rowe . A great guy. I am a big fan. Thank you for all you do.

Mike Rowe is a true American Hero to the physical working masses. Keep up the great work Mike.

Mike, you are the voice of common sense that we need in this crazy world. Thank you!

They used some pretty strong language for a fictional character.😂Get after ‘em Mike!!

What about teachers? I have 35 years experience Welding and Metal Fabrication but don’t have the opportunity to become a teacher without a college degree. I would love the opportunity to teach other my crafts

Guess I missed their post but as usual Mike will set them straight. I am not an expert on Mike Rowe but I have great admiration for him and knew all that he posted if they didn’t shows their ignorance

Thank you Mike for what you do. Some folks can’t figure out how a simple idea and cause can work. It’s because, Godly people like you and your family succeed.

You have a lot more on your side, Mike. You have a finesse for putting fools in their place. It’s kind of sad that you feel the need to defend yourself. Keep doing what you’re doing! You have a lot more for ya than against ya! The “gentleman “ is probably jealous underneath it all.

Mike, please know that there are millions of us who hold you in high esteem. We see the real you in all your glory/gooey/gory/greatest self, and we love you!

And to think that Walker is in the lead.

Thank you,Mike for all you do to help those pursuing a blue collar careers

Mike Rowe is the epitome of integrity. Get right with that fact, “Gentleman”!

Clearly, the “Gentleman” doesn’t understand or appreciate how important the trades are to making our lives easier. Without these hard working people, doing honest work for a decent wage life would be very different from his elitist, entitled tower. When his toilet backs up, who’s he going to call.

That's certainly what you'd say now if a guy from the middle east claimed he was the son of god.

Oh Mike! Will they never learn? I wish I had half of your eloquence and wit!

You are one awesome man Mike! So well said ❤️

Just thank you Mike. It amazes me the thought process of some individuals. Not you of course. Lol

Love Mike Rowe!

I'm so confused. What did Mike say...I missed it

Mike I want to join the crew.

I often watch Mike Rowe and never got the impression that he was scoffing at those with a university degree. To me, he's showing us all the jobs that exist that don't require a degree that are important. There are lots of occupations that are vocational-technical that require post high school study. There are the jobs that people learn on the job. The people who do all these jobs deserve to be respected. It's makes me angry when I see people look down on those they consider beneath them! I taught at a college for decades and was just as friendly to the cleaning folks as the instructors. I admire Mike Rowe for all he does!