SAFAR on the Career Ladder at the University of St Andrews
Max Klymenko, TikTok Creator of the Year and viral “Career Ladder Guy,” brought his signature career-guessing challenge to St Salvator’s Quad at the University of St Andrews. Among the students and staff he engaged, Marina S. Haq, Editor-in-Chief of SAFAR, had the unique opportunity to step onto the ladder, showcasing the magazine’s creative journey and professional ambitions.
Photo Courtesy of SAFAR
Max Klymenko, announced on social media that he was embarking on a UK university tour, visiting the University of Bath, the University of Bristol, the University of Oxford, the London School of Economics and – on 4th of March – the University of St Andrews, the only Scottish University on his itinerary. Known widely as the “the Career Ladder Guy,” Max has captivated audiences around the world with his viral ladder challenge, blending curiosity, insight and humor. Having seen many of his videos online, I was eager to experience phenomenon in person at St Salvator’s Quad, the historic and picturesque heart of St Andrews that I pass almost daily.
Max Klymenko in the St Salvator’s Quad at the University of St Andrews, Scotland
How the Career Ladder Works
Max invites participants from all walks of life to stand on a ladder opposite him, attempting to guess their careers within two minutes. If he succeeds, the audience cheers; if not, participants may choose to keep their career a mystery or reveal it. Before each round, he delivers his signature line: “Hope you don’t have to hold your bladder, because it’s time for the Career Ladder.”
Over time, Max has attempted to guess the professions of a wide range of notable figures, including Shaquille O’Neal, the American former NBA superstar best known for his time with the Los Angeles Lakers; Kerry Kennedy, an American human rights activist and president of the Robert and Ethel Kennedy Human Rights Center and niece of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy; Gordon Ramsay, the British Michelin-starred chef and television personality; Alex Rodriguez, the former Major League Baseball star associated with the New York Yankees; and Will Smith, the American actor. Beyond these well-known names, he has also invited many students, entrepreneurs, and business owners from all walks of life onto the ladder, reflecting the diversity of careers and personal journeys that his challenge celebrates.
Max Klymenko preparing the Career Ladder
“The Career Ladder Guy” at the University of St Andrews
At noon, Max entered St Salvator’s Quad through the Butts Wynd gate, a narrow lane that runs up from The Scores toward the quad. Students also gathered at the main College Gate, eager not to miss the viral creator. Despite it being spring break, a significant crowd assembled, drawn by curiosity and excitement. During the session, Max invited both students and staff onto the ladder, including staff from Taste Café, members of the University of St Andrews Students’ Association as well as a stunt driver, professor and several students. And of course, SAFAR stepped onto the ladder. Max had to guess my career path using clues about my passion project with my mother and my current academic pursuits. Drawing on these hints of about my passion for writing and my PhD studies, he correctly identified that we run an online lifestyle magazine – a creative endeavor that bridges personal passion and professional development.
Editor-in-Chief of SAFAR Marina S. Haq and content creator Max Klymenko on the Career Ladder
A Unique Moment in St Andrews
It was inspiring to see the Career Ladder challenge unfold in the intimate setting of St Salvator’s Quad, highlighting the ambition, creativity and diversity of the university community. Experiencing it firsthand brought a sense of connection not only with Max Klymenko but also with students and staff from different backgrounds, all united by curiosity and fun. SAFAR’s participation in the ladder exemplifies the magazine’s commitment to exploring new ideas, sharing authentic experiences and celebrating personal and professional journeys in innovative ways.