Portmann, Robbie: Paglia

As colleges and universities progress in education, many students look upon their schooling as a job. I believe that Paglia’s suggestion to have universities pair with vocational schools is a grand solution to this growing problem. First, the pairing of the two different types of education will expand the learning environment. Reading, studying, and hands on activities allow more students to understand additional concepts. Studying under the vocational school also allows students to participate in their own learning; therefore removing the tension of the work load they believe they receive from their teachers. Next, connecting the schools will allow students to get more on the job experience for future position. The job market is declining and many graduates need experience to receive a well paid job. Camille Paglia suggests that the work experience gained through the trade schools will help students better prepare or the job market than solely relying on paper and books. It can be discouraging to students to think they are leaving school, or job like atmosphere, just to enter their new life looking for another place of work. Finally, joining the status quo schools with the nontraditional vocational schools will also make learning less boring. By adding more than lectures and labs to class, students’ attention will remain focused on the problems in the learning environment rather than on their cell phones or their friends nearby, resulting in higher retention rates among students. Learning more easily also gives the students confidence in themselves to know that they are smart and can complete the task given to them, rather than they have to complete the work. Joining colleges and vocational schools will help students see their education as more than a job: it will be an opportunity!