Consider this scenario: Deana recently decided to start attending college, yet her family is criticizing her decision. They argue that she should focus on working so she can start
earning money. When she begins school, they fear she will not have as much time to spend with family. Not to mention, her family worries that college will change Deana— that she will become too “mainstream.” As the first person in her family to pursue higher education, Deana thinks her family members have a prejudicial attitude towards higher education and that they should accept her decision.
Post your response to these questions: If you were Deana, how would you address your family’s criticisms of and attitudes about higher education? How would you dispel their fears, and try to convince family members that going to college is a worthwhile endeavor?
Answer:
If I were Deana, I would have a conversation with my family and help them understand the benefit of higher education. In order to dispel their fears, I will talk to my family and reassure them that higher education will not change my attitude and feelings towards them. I would help them understand that I am only doing this for myself but also to be better equipped to support the family situation. Nowadays, a college degree is required to earn a decent living. Although, it is not always a requirement to get a job but it does have an important role in the salary determination
Sounds good.
A couple of mechanical corrections:
~~In this sentence, you need to add the word "not" before "only" -- ...that I am only doing this for myself but also to be better equipped...
~~In this sentence, move the comma so it's after "job" instead of after "although" and delete the word "but." Although, it is not always a requirement to get a job but it does have an important role...
and career advancement opportunities. By attending college, I will gain valuable knowledge, skills, and a network of connections that can open doors for better job prospects in the future. Furthermore, going to college will also provide me with personal growth and development opportunities, helping me become a more well-rounded individual.
To address their concerns about not having as much time to spend with the family, I would emphasize the importance of balancing my studies and personal life. I would reassure them that despite the demands of college, I will still make an effort to prioritize family time and maintain open lines of communication. Additionally, I would remind them that by pursuing higher education, I am investing in my future and ultimately, it will benefit the entire family.
To dispel their fears of me becoming too "mainstream," I would explain that college is not about conforming to societal norms, but rather about expanding my horizons, exploring new ideas, and discovering my passions. Higher education encourages critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth, allowing individuals to develop their unique identity. I would emphasize that my goal is not to change who I am, but to become the best version of myself and make a positive impact in the world.
Ultimately, I would convey to my family that pursuing higher education is a worthwhile endeavor that can lead to personal and professional fulfillment. I would ask them to support me in this journey and help me break generational barriers by becoming the first person in our family to obtain a college degree. I would also remind them that their acceptance and encouragement would mean a lot to me, and it would strengthen the bond within our family.