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.
What is your question?
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?
I had many students like "Deana" enrolled in my high school English classes over the years. For a first-generation American, this is a very difficult decision, both for her and for her family -- for her to make and for her family to accept.
What you need to do is go back into your course materials where this type of scenario is discussed and reread everything.
What is your assignment about this? Once you understand the entire situation and what "prejudicial attitude" means, and once you understand what your assignment is, you'll be better prepared to ask REAL questions and/or simply write up the assignment.
If you want someone to look over your thoughts after you write them, feel free to repost.
In this scenario, Deana is facing criticism from her family for deciding to attend college. Her family believes that she should focus on working to start earning money and they are concerned that college will take away from the time she spends with them. Additionally, they worry that college will change Deana's personality in a negative way.
To address this situation, it is important for Deana to communicate with her family and have an open and honest conversation. Here are a few steps she can take:
1. Understand their perspective: First, Deana should try to understand her family's concerns and where they are coming from. It's possible that they are worried about her financial stability or fear losing her to the demands of education.
2. Share her aspirations: Deana should express her reasons for wanting to attend college and explain her goals and aspirations. This could include mentioning the desire for personal growth, career advancement, and expanding her knowledge.
3. Address their concerns: It's essential for Deana to address her family's specific concerns. She can discuss her plans for managing her time effectively, such as setting aside dedicated family time or working part-time while studying.
4. Provide reassurance: Deana can reassure her family that while college may bring changes, she will remain true to herself. She can explain that education will enhance her understanding of the world and offer her new perspectives, but she will still value her family and maintain her existing relationships.
5. Seek support from others: Deana could also seek support from friends, mentors, or other family members who understand the importance of higher education or have gone through a similar experience. Their insights and advice might help her navigate the situation.
6. Give it time: Sometimes, it takes time for people to fully understand and accept a significant decision. Deana should be patient with her family and give them time to reflect on her choice.
In the end, it is essential for Deana's family to be more accepting and open-minded towards her decision. A higher education can bring numerous benefits, including personal growth, career opportunities, and expanding one's horizons. By having open conversations and addressing their concerns, Deana can hopefully help her family see the value in her choice.