Co$$ege

Well, the three different writings about college and all of the different angles that I could understand really, really got my attention.  The student essay about reducing college costs was right up my alley.  I have scoffed at the way college courses are required for years, as I have had a few extra years to analyze before I returned to school.  With roughly half of my requirements having absolutely nothing to do with my degree except that they cost a lot of money, it makes me really wonder a few things. 

Number Uno, what the hell man?  What is the purpose of having walking, bowling, badminton, art, music, geography, anthropology, theatre, biology, physics and many other offerings have nothing to do with my major?  I come up with nothing.  It really gets me scratching my head bloody.  It just seems wrong somehow.  So why is it so, I just don’t know.  I do find it nothing short of at least ridiculous with a side of ouch.

I have found taking some of my courses now that don’t relate to my degree have changed or broadened my view, affecting my thinking and how I arrive at that thought.  So there is some sense in the critical thinking skills associated with those courses being a benefit worthy of achieving. 

 And then also the essay from a parent’s perspective was enlightening as well.  I knew all of those kids that went on to college just because.  And many of them never stayed in and have made completely different career choices.  Some of them I say, well chosen my friend and others I wonder if maybe they should have completed school for some sort of guidance because they have to yet find that niche.

 And then placing economic value on getting my big, bad degree seems to make sense looking at those figures.  I have seen many people in my already many years get great jobs either in their field and a lot of times not just because of a degree.  My sister in law just was hired in a medical field with a four-year degree in business.  There were more job related qualified people her new boss said, but her degree is what they wanted.  She could be trained, or so they think! 

I definitely see value and many good things coming my way as I continue down this road of higher education.  I do think no matter what transpires when I am done that I should in some way be able to justify the debt incurred as worth it in the end.