WSSU students break through misconceptions about college

In high school there are plenty of myths concerning college life. Teen-agers are ready to break free and explore the world of college freedom. But what is it really like? Here are a few student opinions on some of the biggest misconceptions of college and what the reality of it all is. “Historically Black Colleges and Universities aren’t equal or they don’t compare with standard universities such as Chapel Hill or Wake Forest University. HBCU’s are just as good as ‘other’ schools if not better. Any university is what you make it,” said Phil Javies, a sophomore elementary education/ psychology major. “One of the biggest misconceptions I can think of is that when you graduate you are guaranteed a job. It doesn’t even work like that,” said Corey Ruffin, a senior mass communications major. “You aren’t guaranteed anything.” “Everyone is here for the same reason. For example, everyone is here to get an education, where there are people who truly have different purposes to be here besides getting an education. Some come for the wrong reasons, like their parents told them they had to go, they just wanted to get away, or even worse just for social purposes,” said Kevin Green, a senior biology/chemistry major. “Teachers always said in high school that your professors will not help you, so you better get used to it. You will be on your own and have to learn on your own. That is far from the truth. Professors are very helpful, and its much more open than high school. I’m glad they were lying,” said SGA President Kristie Swink. “When you are younger, people tell you that college is a big party and that all you do is go out. You have to work hard, maintaining your grades, and etc. They say it’s like a big party, but it’s definitely not like that for me,” said Alesha Lackey, a senior mass communications major. “I believe that one of the biggest misconceptions that many younger students believe is that college is very hard and almost impossible to actually achieve,” said Aries Richardson. “You can achieve anything you put your mind to it, you just have to work hard.” “College is the greatest four years of your life,” said Willie Cumbo, a WSSU graduate and staff member. “Partying, doing things your not supposed to, having fun, etc. It’s a good four years, but not the greatest.” College has a lot to offer, and it is a lot of fun, but there are some myths being told or misrepresented out in society giving others the wrong image of “higher education.” Many students work hard, get professors’ help, don’t find their soul mates in college like so many people believe, and come to get their education and find their purpose on this Earth, instead of the wrong impressions that are being given.