The two alternatives that you are presenting (flavour-of-the -week JavaScript versus multiple semesters of Big O notation) are just the two extremes of a wide spectrum.

What you call “shallow”, others might see as “practical”.

It’s possible that this person has chosen study path that isn’t the right one for them. That’s a tricky spot to be in especially in these times. I suggest a little more empathy, and a little less venting.