As we all know, many guys (and girls) love to joke about the girls who come to college to receive their MRS degree. While some girls may truly want to come to college solely to find a husband, there are more girls interested in getting an education to utilize in their lives after college. Of course, this does not mean a girl cannot get an education and find her husband in college.
"Honestly, when I chose my major, I never considered the fact that I would be a minority in this work force," says Meredith Perkins, a mechanical engineering major at the University of Mississippi. "I chose it based off of my interests. I find it very empowering to be one of five girls in a class of 40 students because I have always liked a challenge."
Perkins attended an all-girls school in Memphis, Tenn., where she never experienced stereotypes based on gender. "I was raised to be proud of my intellectual abilities. I think girls should celebrate their talents and not be afraid to be proud of their intelligence."
Women have become a more important part of society. They are no longer only seen as the subordinate or domestic figures. Many families have dual incomes and in some cases, the mother is the sole income.
"To me, being successful is not about the money. It is about the pride in seeing my hard work pay off," says Helen Fordice, accounting major at the University of Mississippi. "Knowing I made something of myself through a career is a huge priority of mine."
Fordice explains, " Accounting [classes] are a pain pretty much all of the time, but I know it will be worth it when I have a successful career with opportunities at every corner and a foundation for myself. Also, I know cooking is not my strongest talent, but hey, I can balance your checkbook and one day do your taxes if needed," Fordice exclaims.
Despite the fact that women are becoming more independent and powerful in society, college girls still experience negative, stereotypical comments from peers.
"One time a had a guy tell me I was an emasculator because I was highly motivated in my studies and was proud of my achievements. I was very confused by his statement because I had never felt embarrassed or been told I would be looked down on for being a successful,female student," says Perkins. "I was shocked that he felt that was a reason to put me down."
Perkins believes it is important for girls to be told they are smart at an early age.
"My mother never placed much emphasis on telling me 'you're so pretty,' it was always 'you're so smart, Meredith, be proud of this and make something of it'."
Our generation has the ability to break the stereotypes of women being inferior, or that they cannot have both a family and successful career.
"I definitely am a daddy's girl and I understand and respect his position in my family. He understands the importance of this subject and is the person who has pushed me to be the best I can be and to never sell myself short," says Fordice. "Though I want to be successful on my own, I believe women do need a male figure in their lives who is willing to empower their children- sons and daughters- to push them towards success."
