THIS WEEK, a Cavalier Daily news story explored the E-School's new policy to guarantee admission to VCCS students who complete certain requirements. This policy is similar to the one already in place in the College, where VCCS students who meet particular requirements have been guaranteed admission to the University since 2006. These policies are not unique to the University. Over 20 other Virginia colleges and universities have similar policies, although they usually have less rigorous standards. Although this policy can be controversial, it is an asset to higher education in Virginia.
Under this agreement, students must complete various requirements. At the University, they must complete an associate's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher. They may never receive below a C in a class, or below a B in specific ones. They also have to fulfill many course requirements, which resemble the general education requirements for a University degree. Upon achieving this, students are guaranteed admission, but they still have their work cut out for them. They then have only two years to complete their major, which usually means 10 classes in four semesters. Changing a major or being uncertain is simply not an option for these students.
Today, it is increasingly difficult for students to gain admission to four-year schools. The interest is growing much more quickly than the higher education system can handle. In order to remedy this, the community college system needs to grow and can provide a stepping-stone to four-year schools. These programs serve as incentive for new students to spend time at a community college before graduating with a degree from a university.
Most students enter high school when they are 14 years old. Needless to say, not every 14 year old is aware of the impact their present actions will have on their future. If an adolescent gets poor grades in high school during their first year or two, it can be very damaging and keep them out of most or all colleges. There are also students who do not plan to go to college or who are completely disinterested in their education until they are faced with the harsh realities of the "real world." These students, although late bloomers, are frequently as responsible and intelligent as any of us. They deserve to have a second chance. If they can get their acts together and fulfill the University's requirements for admission, they should be able to attend the University. Being guaranteed admission serves as an incentive to complete the requirements and allows newly serious students to get the education they need to pursue future goals.
College differs greatly from high school. Where high schools often test students based on daily homework assignments and rote memorization, college is a whole new ball field. Homework assignments become rarer, advantaging students who are able to motivate themselves without being pushed. Tests are much more critical and are based on comprehension and application. A student that did not fare well in high school might still be a fantastic student in college, especially as they grow older and presumably mature. This program gives opportunities to students who did not fare well in high school but bloomed in community college. These students can contribute diversity and a good work ethic to our community.
Some argue that this program disadvantages other students, such as high school seniors and transfers from other four-year institutions. Although I understand a high school student's frustration in this situation, the same program is open and waiting for them to take advantage of. They, too, can attend a Virginia community college and be guaranteed admission to the University. If they prefer, they can attend another school and perform well, and they are still likely to be admitted.
This is also a great program for students in financial need. Although the University seems to do a good job providing financial aid, it does not always cover everything. Students who want to get a bargain on a great education stand to benefit from this agreement. Students are able to live at home for two years and pay community college tuition before transferring to the University and confronting the relatively high living costs in Charlottesville.
This program is an asset to higher education in Virginia because it gives different types of students the chance to become well-educated. Students simply do not mature at the same rates or have the same financial needs, and no one should not be left out of the best education our state can offer: a degree from the University of Virginia.
Arin Smith's column appears Fridays in The Cavalier Daily. She can be reached at asmith@cavalierdaily.com.
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