Is it permissible for a Muslim to wish for the highest academic ranks, and is that considered selfishness?

It is a Muslim's right to strive for the highest degrees and positions, and this is not selfishness; rather, a Muslim should aspire to what is higher and better. Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz used to say: "I have a soul that is ambitious: whenever it attained a rank, it yearned for a higher one, until it attained the Caliphate, and now I yearn for Paradise." A Muslim should be like this, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "A strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, and there is good in both. Be keen on what benefits you, seek Allah's help, and do not lose heart." However, this striving must not be for the purpose of arrogance towards others or belittling them, nor should it be mere wishful thinking without action.