My students are evaluating the value/worth of a college education, so they have been brainstorming for good research questions and narrow subtopics that are part of this larger concern. As a professor at a liberal arts college, I encounter students every semester who roll their eyes and insist that they shouldn't have to waste their time taking classes that are not directly related to "what I will be doing for the rest of my life." Curiously, if I were to ask these students to tell me exactly what they expect to be doing for the rest of their lives, they cannot tell me. Yes, they can offer a vague suggestion: I'm going to work in the music industry. Or I'm going to work in business. Beyond that, they have no idea what specific job they plan to pursue, where they want to live, what specific skills or areas of knowledge their career ambitions will demand. They just know that they shouldn't be bothered with learning anything that doesn't translate directly into a job skill. My response is simple, and it probably sounds pretty callous. "OK, then go get the job you already know how to do, and make your fortune." Or secure the training you need for a highly prescriptive job and then get on with your life. Or don't waste everyone's time and money--get a job and work full-time for a year or more. If you change your mind about the value of a college education, particularly one that combines professional preparation with liberal arts exploration, then come back. We will welcome you and with the same enthusiasm and hospitality that the wealthy father welcomed the prodigal son.
Students complain about classes because of the work ethic they may involve. Though student are unaware of their career path, we have become lazy in wanting to broaden our horizon of education. Students do not realize until it is too late that those classes are crucial when the hiring manager is trying to figure out how versatile an employee is.
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