Two schools of thought when it comes to higher education, freshman says

By Anna McCall

There are two types of college students in this day and age.  There are the ones the “assume” and there are the ones that “do.”  

If you are one of the ones that “do,” I guarantee that college will be a time where you will challenge yourself beyond the classroom. 

If you are one of the ones that “assume,” you are wasting valuable time and resources, by using these years to stall time. If you are attending college by the benevolence of your parents, it’s even worse. 

College is a time to be optimistic and realistic at once. 

It is associated with following one’s dreams and passions. However, this optimism must have substance in the form of a plan in which to pursue your goals.

Many college students have no solid ground in which to root their optimism. They are often optimistic because they are getting a college degree and that is all they need to be successful. In reality, success is achieved beyond education.  It is achieved by a mentality that takes action and innovation. 

     In this economy, college is not a time to be naïve. It is a time to think beyond these four years and to prepare for the workforce. 

     Many students choose a subject simply because they like it, but do not have a specific plan in which to apply it to the professional world. When they go out into the workforce, they see their degree in a light of entitlement. They did not take innovative action or gain a broad perspective throughout their college career.  

     They naively think that time will take care of everything else.

     There are two main truths concerning higher education that must be taken seriously. The first is that a college degree does not entitle you to anything.  It does play a factor in getting you a job, but it is  not  a guarantee. 

     The second is that one must be innovative from the rest of the crowd in making connections for potential opportunities. 

     These two things define the mentality of students that “do.” 

      The students that “do” are the students who do not just spend time going to class.  

     They use their time in college to network with professionals and to build a broad skill set to fill the needs of employers. 

     They master the concept of time management. To them, college is a crucial time of preparation, not an extension of adolescence. 

     In the professional world, an employer will look beyond the degree.  

     A college degree does not reveal your true potential as a prospective employee.   

     It merely states that you finished four years in a specific program and passed.

      Employers expect much more than that. 

     To them, what reveals your potential is how you carry yourself in a professional setting, a well written resume, and solid work experience. 

     Work experience is key to competing in the work force for that first job. It is no longer an option.  It is absolutely crucial. One has to do more than hope for the best.

      They have to pursue it.