Why Go to College? an address By: Alice Freeman Palmer (1855-1902)
In "Why Go to College? An Address" by Alice Freeman Palmer, the author passionately explores the significance and value of pursuing a college education. Drawing from her personal experiences as an educator and college president, Palmer presents a compelling argument for why attending college is crucial for personal growth, intellectual development, and social progress. The book begins with an engaging introduction where Palmer establishes her credibility by discussing her own educational journey and her deep understanding of the transformative power of education. She highlights the idea that college is not merely a means to acquire knowledge but also a life-changing experience that enables individuals to shape their character and contribute to society. One of the strongest points made by Palmer is that attending college helps students develop critical thinking skills and broadens their perspectives. Through exposure to various subjects, intellectual debates, and diverse individuals, college students are encouraged to question assumptions, challenge existing concepts, and form their own opinions. These skills, as Palmer argues, are invaluable in an ever-changing world where adaptability and open-mindedness are crucial. Moreover, Palmer emphasizes how college education contributes to personal growth, instilling a sense of responsibility and independence. She suggests that through the demands of academia, students learn to manage their time effectively, prioritize responsibilities, and sharpen their organizational skills. Ultimately, this fosters a sense of self-discipline and helps individuals prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Additionally, the author highlights the social benefits of attending college. Palmer argues that the college environment provides a unique platform for individuals to form lifelong friendships and professional connections. She explains how colleges act as breeding grounds for collaborations and networking opportunities, enabling students to build relationships that can considerably impact their future endeavors. While the book delves into various aspects and advantages of attending college, it is important to note that Palmer's arguments are primarily based on her observations and experiences within her own time and context. Since the book was published over a century ago, some readers may find that it lacks perspectives on modern challenges faced by prospective college students. However, Palmer's insights and reasoning still hold relevance today. In conclusion, "Why Go to College? An Address" is a thought-provoking book that advocates for the importance of higher education. Alice Freeman Palmer masterfully presents a compelling case for attending college, highlighting its transformative nature, intellectual stimulation, personal growth, and social benefits. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the enduring value of pursuing a college education. First Page: WHY GO TO COLLEGE? an Address BY ALICE FREEMAN PALMER Formerly President of Wellesley College To a largely increasing number of young girls college doors are opening every year. Every year adds to the number of men who feel as a friend of mine, a successful lawyer in a great city, felt when in talking of the future of his four little children he said, "For the two boys it is not so serious, but I lie down at night afraid to die and leave my daughters only a bank account." Year by year, too, the experiences of life are teaching mothers that happiness does not necessarily come to their daughters when accounts are large and banks are sound, but that on the contrary they take grave risks when they trust everything to accumulated wealth and the chance of a happy marriage. Our American girls themselves are becoming aware that they need the stimulus, the discipline, the knowledge, the interests of the college in addition to the school, if they are to prepare themselves for the most serviceable lives. But there are still parents who say, "There is no need that my daughter should teach; then why should she go to college?" I will not reply that college training is a life insurance for a girl, a pledge that she possesses the disciplined ability to earn a living for herself and others in case of need, for I prefer to insist on the importance of giving every girl, no matter what her present circumstances, a special training in some one thing by which she can render society service, not amateur but of an expert sort, and service too for which it will be willing to pay a price... Continue reading book >>

Why Go to College? an address By: Alice Freeman Palmer (1855-1902)

In "Why Go to College? An Address" by Alice Freeman Palmer, the author passionately explores the significance and value of pursuing a college education. Drawing from her personal experiences as an educator and college president, Palmer presents a compelling argument for why attending college is crucial for personal growth, intellectual development, and social progress.

The book begins with an engaging introduction where Palmer establishes her credibility by discussing her own educational journey and her deep understanding of the transformative power of education. She highlights the idea that college is not merely a means to acquire knowledge but also a life-changing experience that enables individuals to shape their character and contribute to society.

One of the strongest points made by Palmer is that attending college helps students develop critical thinking skills and broadens their perspectives. Through exposure to various subjects, intellectual debates, and diverse individuals, college students are encouraged to question assumptions, challenge existing concepts, and form their own opinions. These skills, as Palmer argues, are invaluable in an ever-changing world where adaptability and open-mindedness are crucial.

Moreover, Palmer emphasizes how college education contributes to personal growth, instilling a sense of responsibility and independence. She suggests that through the demands of academia, students learn to manage their time effectively, prioritize responsibilities, and sharpen their organizational skills. Ultimately, this fosters a sense of self-discipline and helps individuals prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

Additionally, the author highlights the social benefits of attending college. Palmer argues that the college environment provides a unique platform for individuals to form lifelong friendships and professional connections. She explains how colleges act as breeding grounds for collaborations and networking opportunities, enabling students to build relationships that can considerably impact their future endeavors.

While the book delves into various aspects and advantages of attending college, it is important to note that Palmer's arguments are primarily based on her observations and experiences within her own time and context. Since the book was published over a century ago, some readers may find that it lacks perspectives on modern challenges faced by prospective college students. However, Palmer's insights and reasoning still hold relevance today.

In conclusion, "Why Go to College? An Address" is a thought-provoking book that advocates for the importance of higher education. Alice Freeman Palmer masterfully presents a compelling case for attending college, highlighting its transformative nature, intellectual stimulation, personal growth, and social benefits. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the enduring value of pursuing a college education.

First Page:

WHY GO TO COLLEGE? an Address

ALICE FREEMAN PALMER

Formerly President of Wellesley College

To a largely increasing number of young girls college doors are opening every year. Every year adds to the number of men who feel as a friend of mine, a successful lawyer in a great city, felt when in talking of the future of his four little children he said, "For the two boys it is not so serious, but I lie down at night afraid to die and leave my daughters only a bank account." Year by year, too, the experiences of life are teaching mothers that happiness does not necessarily come to their daughters when accounts are large and banks are sound, but that on the contrary they take grave risks when they trust everything to accumulated wealth and the chance of a happy marriage. Our American girls themselves are becoming aware that they need the stimulus, the discipline, the knowledge, the interests of the college in addition to the school, if they are to prepare themselves for the most serviceable lives.

But there are still parents who say, "There is no need that my daughter should teach; then why should she go to college?" I will not reply that college training is a life insurance for a girl, a pledge that she possesses the disciplined ability to earn a living for herself and others in case of need, for I prefer to insist on the importance of giving every girl, no matter what her present circumstances, a special training in some one thing by which she can render society service, not amateur but of an expert sort, and service too for which it will be willing to pay a price... Continue reading book >>

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