A Whole New World by Rachel

A Whole New World by Rachel - April 2015 Scholarship Essay

Ah, what is the purpose of education? This question has been bespoke by numerous people, from children trying to comprehend the significance of sitting in the same building for six and half hours every weekday to ancient sages discussing the philosophy behind our hard-studied knowledge. In my opinion, there are many purposes of an education but I will only outline my top three.

Many people would agree with me that the purpose of getting an education or degree is so one can acquire a job that will support one's daily living. Last summer I talked with many people from all across the country about their stance on the purpose of, specifically, a college education. Nearly all of whom I spoke to had college degrees of which they defended the importance of receiving. They explained to me that multiple employers and companies are simply looking for a college degree of any kind in applicants. Obtaining a degree demonstrates to a future employer a person's commitment to achieving a goal, work ethic and ability to learn. Of course, certain employers are also searching for a specific mayor when hiring if the occupation demands extensive training like a doctor, lawyer, pilot, etc. Such professions require a significant amount of studying and preparation only gained through the process of earning a degree at a university or college.

Since education is so hard learned, requiring hours, to the point of years, of diligence, discipline and devotion, I believe it must be shared with all for better of the world. This brings me to my second purpose of education. Teaching. Not always in the traditional sense of holding a position as a formal teacher but in the sharing of knowledge with any individual that crosses one's path. Beyond being paid for a service this requires a selfless approach to using erudition to improve others' lives. For example, a carpenter offering advice to a neighbor on brands of siding, an off-duty doctor coming to the quick rescue of a choking victim in a restaurant or merely a friend helping a friend study for a test. Education binds and unifies humans through the gift of sharing.

Which brings my to my last purpose of education; appreciating and understanding the world around us. How can anyone truly appreciate the complexity of the human body unless it is studied? Also, how can anyone use a computer to its full capacity unless they first understand how it operates? An object takes on a whole new meaning when it is fully understood and appreciated. For instance, if an ancient Egyptian traveled through time and behold a television for the first time he would probably use it as a chair rather than discerning that it's an object to turn on. In fact, once the TV was turned on he would most likely be terrified of the noise and flashing scenes instead of realizing what entertainment and pleasure it can bring. Something so common to us as a TV would be completely unknown to the point of horror to a person who does not understand the purpose and workings of such a device. Only after someone demonstrates and explains the function of this electronic will the Egyptian relax and enjoy the wonders of this modern convenience. Appreciation comes from understanding which allows us to live fuller and happier lives.

All these purposes apply to me in my endeavor to attend college and receive a higher education. In my life there exists nothing else that changes and empowers quite like an education. It greatly increases job opportunities in the case of earning a college degree. Not only does it prepare me for a specific job but also teaches how to interact effectively with other people and how to learn by studying and applying myself to a disciplined schedule. For this experience employers are searching. Sharing my education and knowledge to enable others and improve my sphere in life allows a deeper understanding of the purpose of my education. For this, I must willingly offer my knowledge to others. The world takes on a whole new glow and captivation when I understand and appreciate the things around me. For this I am excited to continue learning the rest of my life. Never underestimate the power and purpose of education.