Should we take higher education to a higher level?

What is the goal of higher education? Is it to explore our interests and learn more about ourselves? Is it to get a job (if you ask your parents, that's probably their answer)? Or is it some mix of both? Which schools are best to attend - big schools that are more career-focused, or smaller, liberal arts schools?

This week David Brook's article, "The Big University" exposes the evolution of the higher education system from a curriculum based on morals and spiritual understanding to a vocational assembly line. He laments that in today's universities, "Students are taught how to do things, but many are not forced to reflect on why they should do them or what we are here for. They are given many career options, but they are on their own when it comes to [deciding] which vocation would lead to the fullest life."

As an undecided student who has a love for learning, but also wants to get a job in the future, I completely relate to this mentality. Unfortunately, because I'm considering some technical majors, I am taking classes to teach me the skills required for a specific field instead of learning more about my personal philosophy. And I do feel that, for the most part, this is pretty characteristic of Penn State's programs. Do I wish that Penn State would put a greater emphasis on personal development? Yes. But, even though I may resent learning about protists in biology (when am I ever going to use that knowledge again?), I think that it's okay that these skills are the university's focus. And I think it's unfair of Brooks to accuse universities of not doing their job.

I would argue that some of the onus that Brooks puts on the university should be on the students to go out and seek those enriching opportunities through clubs or study abroad experiences. I personally, have made it my mission to learn more about my personal career development outside of class. Over my past few weeks at Penn State, I have sought out 10 upperclassmen who are majoring in the areas that I am considering. While this has not brought me that much closer to picking a major, it has helped me expand my network and has exposed me to the unique programs offered by each college.

Now, is it true that it might be easier to find these life-enriching experiences at a small liberal arts school? Maybe. But, part of life is being a self-advocate and taking charge of your own education. While I agree with Brooks that there has been a movement away from self-fulfillment in higher education, I think that if you are vocal about your goals, you can almost always combine your interests in a new and interesting way. For example, I met a student last week who is an IST major with a focus in Psychology; now that's a cool course of study.

Brooks also does point out that many universities are starting to return to the classical model, just in a different way. Instead of emphasizing religious teachings, many are offering interdisciplinary programs, or opportunities to conduct research outside of the classroom. Hopefully, these efforts will help make us well-rounded and skilled individuals upon graduation.

To answer my questions at the beginning of this post, I don't know what is best. I think it really does depend on the individual. But, I know for myself, that I will take the initiative to learn more about the world around me - even if I don't pick a humanities-oriented major. All I can say right now is that I am excited for my future and for discovering all this university has to offer over the next four years.