Do you ever feel not "college-y" enough?
This semester I was fortunate to take a public policy class where I am one of two freshmen; the other 24 students are juniors and seniors. My professor asked us on the first day why we were in the class, and my brilliant self answered with, "Well, as a freshman..." Rookie mistake.
I spent the next few weeks feeling extremely inadequate. The other students discussed the readings with jargon that was way over my head. When the professor asked if we had any questions, I didn't even know what I didn't know! I questioned whether or not I belonged in that class, much less in the politics department at Hendrix College. I was discouraged, to say the least.
With a little bit of courage and effort, however, I finally did acclimate to the class and the students in it. I find myself answering questions and engaging in discussion. I even gave a presentation for my peers and a visiting scholar from Stanford!
In my time of doubt, I did realize something I don't think is spoken enough. College is not for everyone. I realized I do belong at my school, and I am studying what's right for my interests, but that isn't always the case. I was so surprised to see several of my friends transfer out after our first semester. I found myself judging them, thinking they just weren't cut out for the fast paced college student life. I could not be more wrong.
Looking back on my senior year in high school, I have noticed that the counselors encouraged us all to get on the fast track to a four-year university, to do the "normal thing." Other options, such as technical colleges, culinary schools, art institutes, the army or even going straight into the work force were all discouraged, even looked down upon. As striking as it is, there is a general attitude among millennials that college is the norm, and anything outside of it is a complete failure. This is not the case at all.
I believe these options should be presented; students should have the ability to make choices without feeling judged by their peers. A four-year university is an option, not an end all.
