Assignment 9

Education is one of the most prominent institutions that existing in our social structure. In today’s society, getting an education is not an option. A young person may find his or her self without options as an adult. From the time we are children, education is drilled into us. As time has passes, the standards for education have become increasingly important.

I consider myself very fortunate to have had a great educational experience. I was like most kids and attended public school. I remember elementary school like it was yesterday. It was during that time I felt the most free from educational shackles. Recess was the best! The socialization in elementary school is something I will never forget. It seemed as if getting along and learning to share with others was a big test; next up middle school. Not only was I feeling awkward in my own skin, but the idea of education became more prevalent. Suddenly, grades mattered. It was important to participate in afterschool activities. Good grades were not an option, they were a priority. Finally, the place that would determine my future; high school. I don’t think I ever slept in high school. I was always involved in something, studying for a test, doing whatever I could to make the grade, team, or honor roll. Today, we apply an enormous amount of pressure on high school kids. There is so much emphasis on making the grade or team. If by some chance one doesn’t, the future is a stake.

If all that wasn’t enough, then there is college. It is very apparent that if one does not go to college or receive some sort of higher education, there will not be as many chances for success post-college. Our society is driven around a college education and above. Today, many people pursue a Masters or higher level education.

It is easy to understand from the reading that education is a powerful institution in our society, however, I think we lose sight of what we gain from our educational experience as a whole. That is how we relate and experience the world around us.