Now that students are in college, some expect to be taught on a more advanced level. Many people argue that in classes, students should be exposed to things they have never been exposed to. At least that is the expectation of a few freshman students. Some freshmen come into the university believing that college is not as easy as high school. In fact, some of those students, like LaShawnda McGrew-Baker, welcome the extra push.
“Its great that the classes are challenging,” said McGrew-Baker, 18, a political science student. “It helps us realize that we are not in high school anymore and that we are going to have to work a little harder to achieve what we want.”
Tiffany Dixon, another freshman agrees. She said challenging classes help students to learn more.
“I appreciate that the classes are more challenging, because it gives me real responsibility,” said Dixon, 18, an accounting student. “It shows me that I’m no longer in high school.”
Professors seem to agree that stimulating students’ minds helps to prepare them for their careers.
Dr. Gewyne H. Boston, an African-American Literature teacher, said students should always expect a challenge in the classroom.
“It is essential that classes be challenging in order to promote excellence in students,” Boston said.
All in all, students seem to agree that school does have its fair share of challenges. Students are expected to balance homework with jobs, sports and a social life. At times this may prove to be overwhelming. However, some individuals said that it is not the classes that are challenging, but the finances.
Many students juggle rent, car notes and even paying for education out of the pocket. Needless to say, money can contribute to frustration in the classroom.
Devon Carpenter, 21, a junior general education student said in addition to some classes being taxing, managing money is an added burden.
“Classes are difficult because of the outside school environment from rent, family issues, credit card bills, light bills, water bills etc… that are needed to survive,” Carpenter said. “After trying to resolve these problems then you have to worry about completing class work outside of school like community service hours (and) group projects.”
Whether it is money or too much homework, students seem to agree that college brings with it a share of issues that they will have to put up with throughout their tenure. As students matriculate through the University, they are considered independent people and are taught to stand on their own, and deal with the challenges that come their way.