The purpose of an education by Kaitlynne

The purpose of an education by Kaitlynne - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

Education, in my opinion, is not simply for the benefit of the person being educated. The purpose of education is also to serve society at a higher level. The person/student seeking education will benefit personally, will become a functional part of society, and will be able to use their newfound knowledge and skills to benefit society as a whole.

The student attending class is bettering themselves with the acquisition of knowledge in a certain topic and the gaining of a new skill. In the case of a university education, the student is not only gaining both a general knowledge of math, science, humanities and other courses, but is also working on a specifically focused wealth of knowledge within their chosen area of study. This benefits the student personally as they learn more about their field and the world around them. They may have their mind opened to new areas, changing their outlook on society, people and other areas of their lives.

While the personal benefits of knowledge may better the student, it may also make them more “employable.” This will bring a benefit to the student as far as economic well-being. An education, in most cases, enables a student to rise above the “minimum wage” positions, allowing them to seek a career in their chosen field. Often a degree (whether Associate, Bachelor, Master or above) is seen by employers as desirable. This is especially true in fields or careers that require a certain level of specialty in the field such as engineering, teaching, social work, therapy, and other specialized fields. Becoming employable is also benefit to the student in helping to raise their economic standing, allowing them to function as an independent member of society without relying on aide from other sources.

However, this is not the only benefit of education. As a student learns a topic and is able to put it into gainful employment, they are also able to use their degree to benefit others. The degree in which they are educated may result in a career that directly benefits others such as a teacher’s students or the people using the social workers services to in turn benefit themselves.

This, in turn, may result in the client or the next generation of students turning to the idea of seeking an education themselves, thereby benefiting themselves and society in a positive cycle of gaining knowledge and skills.

In addition, our society benefits from the skills earned and then put into practice. Architects may find new ways of making environmentally friendly buildings. Engineers may find ways to harness renewable energy. Social workers may be able to ensure the safety and care of both geriatric and disabled clients, helping to better their lives. Each student is able to impact an ever widening circle of people in our society with services and products.

The purpose of education is to lift both the individual and society at large into a place where the benefit of knowledge and skills gained impacts all.