All That and More: The True Purposes of College

In “All That and More: The True Purposes of College” Dr. Bernie Machen explains after all his years of lectures he concluded that the three purposes of college are self-discovery, a career and contributing to our world. I don’t agree with his choice of words as far as them being the true purposes but I believe that everyone has their own unique “true purpose” of college; however, I do agree with his purposes. College is usually were everyone’s life truly begins and self-discovery takes place along with realization and self-awareness. Knowing who you is vital to trying to pursue a career. The college experience can be challenging, yet rewarding once you are in your career that you have chosen based on yourself. Don’t be afraid to question yourself or your actions. I’m currently questioning my purpose. What is that I should be doing? Is nursing the career for me? I have a passion for caring for people and I love what nurses do but that question sits in the back of my mind.

“What’s the Good Life” and “Introduction to Humanities” are both classes that raises question about the three purposes. If given the chance I would ask Dr.Machen, “In what ways throughout his journey did the three true purposes help him? How did he avoid the “not so good life” what would be his advice for minorities that live in urban area that’s are trying to pursue the good life but are faced with obstacles daily?

As I expressed before I agree with Dr.Machen about self-discovery being a true purpose of college. You can’t go throughout life knowing yourself, and if you don’t know yourself you’ll probably end up in a field that you may not really want. I would say a true purpose would be knowledge. So many people go to college and don’t retain knowledge. Knowledge is power and the key to success. In addition to that, a degree that you worked so hard for and that you may finally be able to start a career you enjoy after the college life.