Regardless of how good her portfolio is, I think the point he was trying to make is that you don't need a degree in photography to be a good photographer. My brother-in-law does some of the best corporate photography I've seen, well respected in his field, and he got an unrelated degree.

I think his point about business knowledge is a good one. If you want to be a successful photographer, you're probably better off getting a degree in marketing, communications, or business management, and minor in photography.