Learning About Universities Emotional Grip By Using Frank Bruni As an Example

A new report suggests that we’re on the cusp of important, necessary changes in the way colleges evaluate applicants.

Source: Rethinking College Admissions – The New York Times

I promised I would have another comment. Here it is.

As a former professor (who is frightened out of my wits by what I know and the public doesn’t), I have followed Mr. Bruni’s columns with considerable interest. They offer a teaching moment.

Initially, Mr. Bruni’s columns seemed to be full of trust in universities (a fatal mistake), that today’s college experience was, or could be, like the experience he probably had. It isn’t, and in his recent columns one could see that he was realizing that.

But, now there is this column, not skeptical – which it should be — just hopeful. That is a concern for those of us who want to see change through education – education ABOUT universities

Most of us want universities to be like our wonderful, wise, well dressed (in tweed), and highly respected (Let’s make him British) uncle; someone who cares about us and wants to teach us well.

Instead, we get something like Bernie Madoff – but much worse. This uncle steals our kids’ futures.

As a former professor (who is frightened out of my wits by what I know and the public doesn’t), I have followed Mr. Bruni’s columns with considerable interest. They offer a teaching moment.

Initially, Mr. Bruni’s columns seemed to be full of trust in universities (a fatal mistake), that today’s college experience was, or could be, like the experience he probably had. It isn’t, and in his recent columns one could see that he was realizing that.

But, now there is this column, not skeptical – which it should be — just hopeful. That is a concern for those of us who want to see change through education – education ABOUT universities

Most of us want universities to be like our wonderful, wise, well dressed (in tweed), and highly respected (Let’s make him British) uncle; someone who cares about us and wants to teach us well.

Instead, we get something like Bernie Madoff – but much worse. This uncle steals our kids’ futures.