At a time when the problems and challenges of higher education make headlines every day, and when so many students struggle to earn their degrees, community colleges quietly get the job done for millions of people. Haven’t they earned a little more respect than they usually get? Instructor Brian Goedde of Community College of Philadelphia thinks so, and he proposes a small plan with tremendous potential benefits in this May 2016 article in the New York Times.
Read it here: Goedde, “Talk to us, Mr. President“
- Why does Goedde want President Obama to give the commencement address at a community college? Why does Goedde think that an address by Obama would matter so much? Point to specific passages from his essay to support your response.
- While Goedde is enthusiastic in his praise of President Obama’s support for community colleges, he mentions criticism of the President in two places in his essay. How does he present these criticisms? Which of the template suggestions in Chapter 1 of your text comes closest to showing the ways in which Goedde uses those They Say moves? Explain your reasoning.
- Chapter 7 of your text addresses how authors establish the importance of what they are writing. What does Goedde do in this essay to answer the “So what?” and “Who cares?” questions. Point to specific examples to support your conclusion.
- Do you know who has given the last few commencement addresses at your school? When your graduation day comes, you will likely (and justifiably) be more excited about your own accomplishment than about the identity of the commencement speaker. Still, a commencement address can be memorable and exciting, adding tremendous flavor to an already grand day. If you could choose, who would you select as your commencement speaker? Why? Explain your reasoning. (You may want to listen to a few notable commencement addresses on YouTube to help you think about the question.)
- Goedde relates several examples of the lack of school pride shown by community college students; for example, students who wear shirts or caps of nearby large universities or who deliberately avoid saying where they study. Are you proud of your school? Why or why not? To what extent does your school’s prestige in the community influence how much pride you feel? Do you think your academic success is linked in any way to how much pride you feel for your school? Why or why not? Based on your own personal experience and observations, do you agree with Goedde’s argument that community colleges merit more respect? Write an essay addressing these questions, using Goedde’s argument about community colleges as your They Say.
They Say I Blog 
To continue the conversation between home and public schooling, I believe personal experiences people have had in the two systems speaks for themselves. I have attended public schools in my entirety, K-12, and the experience that I received undoubtably shaped me into the person I am today. I have also seen how homeschooling has positively effected some of my friends as well. The bottom line is, people want to provide the best possible education for their child to succeed. While both options have created some of the best intellectual minds, homeschooling doesn’t touch on all the factors of what an embodied experience can be and how it could affect a child’s life, but it contains aspects that still drive students to succeed. Public schooling also doesn’t meet parents requirements and it questions how as a nation we could assess these different views to obtain a better experience for every parent and student.
Parents around the nation are educating their children at home and a lot of it has to deal with the preferences. Stated in Making the Grade, “With reasons that vary from dissatisfaction with the public school curriculum and lack of discipline to preferences for Christian-based and culturally-centered education, African-Americans are keeping their children home from public schools and teaching them themselves.”(MTG) This preference parents are looking for with discipline towards Christian and culturally centered children is understandable. Public schooling doesn’t assess education through that perspective, and there may be benefits of incorporating these values along with public education. A possibility may be incorporating a poll for parents that see different perspectives for their child’s learning that they would like implemented in their education. Yes, violence and bullying do occur but homeschooling misses the aspect that deters them from what public schooling is. Embodiment. Cultures, races, and even religions are passed on throughout the halls of public schools everyday. Children become exposed to these traits and adds as a benefit to feel equal and surrounded by an active reality in which society is. It’s understandable that parents use this stance as a decision to homeschool going forth, as well as containing the benefit of more one-on-one time with students.
Every year, it seems that the mandated testing requirements become harder. Other nations have become influenced by the intense progression the United States have set forth. The government issues these standards by collections of past recordings which only come through public schools. If the government decided to include homeschooling as a private sector to see the progress and improvement that the students are making, this could help the government understand and realize the standards nationwide. As well as influence a parent’s decision on what style of education best suits their child’s progress. Students who are homeschooled don’t have the ability to record their test scores, but that doesn’t deter from the fact that the students can’t become as successful. Homeschool students like Sho Yano, a child prodigy with an IQ estimation of 200, who also earned a PhD from the University of Chicago at the age of 12.
While homeschooling has the great benefits of prevention of violence and bullying, increase of one-on-one aspects, and the ability to go at a personal learning pace, it doesn’t touch the reality aspect that we are all together in society. Races, cultures, and religions become exposed in the natural environment, and starting public schooling at a young age could help influence better communication skills with their individuals. Homeschooling understandably guides students to a path to success while still focusing on key aspects as they go along through education. Students become comfortably satisfied with their learning process and pace, and that’s a benefit when it comes to the government increasing the standards in public schools every year. My personal stance is within the public school systems and the rapid pace of education that changes each year and the exposure of a realistic society. But, I also agree that homeschooling has the benefits that help students succeed by personal paces, prevention of violence, and building connections while one-on-one.
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The media around the nation focuses on the problems and challenges of higher-education, and the view towards America’s community colleges has never really been brought to the stage. Even though higher institutions have these problems, community colleges are greatly affecting the data that is behind education. Should community colleges get more recognition than what they currently have? Brian Goedde of Community College of Philadelphia believes so, as he proposes a plan with tremendous potential in the May 2016 article in the New York Times.
Geodde introduces the audience to the State of the Union speech by President Obama in 2015. Geodde quotes Obama’s statements of community colleges that they are, “unsung heroes of America’s education.” He then states, “considering how big the market is: 1,655 community colleges nationwide(according to the federal Department of Education), constituting 47 percent of all college students enrolled at a public institution.”(NYT) Goedde concludes on Obama that he should speak at a community college graduation. He believes this should happen so it could stand out to the negative image and stigma it receives, while also inspiring graduates that their contribution to society is greatly needed and effected. Goedde is a professor at Washtenaw Community College, and he took his thoughts to his students. His students’ reactions were overwhelmingly positive and they kept referring to the statement of “unsung heroes” which gave them worlds of confidence. Goedde’s praise to the President isn’t shown without criticism. He refers to two parts of his speech in his article. The first is how he believes President Obama’s capstone of his presidency would be taking actions to lower the cost of community college to zero. Goedde doesn’t necessarily state a reaction if President Obama doesn’t pursue his efforts, but he is invested in the thought of the idea. If the efforts wouldn’t happen, Goedde’s reaction may be in a negative aspect. Lastly, he admits that him and his students didn’t appreciate the quote that the line of community colleges should be as “universal as high school.” Students believe this would make the associates degree the same value as a high school diploma.
In the class text of chapter 7, it address how authors establish the importance of what they are writing. Goedde answers the “So what?” and “Who cares?” questions by backing up significant data on how community colleges are needed. Like previously, 47 percent of all students enrolled through community colleges are within a public institution. Nearly half of the graduates come from community colleges, and the benefits of value and inexpensiveness(compared to higher institutions) greatly effects the education system. On a personal note, the school board of my high school gave me my last commencement speech but it was. Essentially, I was more basking in the moment of my achievement. If I had to chose a commencement speaker, it would have to be someone who has made a difference out of the same path I took. Someone who has produced well for themselves, for society, and is seen as a positive influence.
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If Goedde and Biggs are correct in saying that community college is a better choice for many students than going straight to a major institution, as I think they are, we need to reassess the popular assumption that community colleges are for those who can’t get into major institutions and provide a less quality education. Contrary to popular belief community college has a lot of benefits that a major university can’t provide. For one thing attending community college is much more affordable than a major college. A lot of states offer scholarships for community college that help keep prices down. Coming from a small town I know many people that have taken advantage of the community college system in South Carolina. In America we need people that work in every trade and a lot of trades don’t require a four-year degree. It doesn’t make sense for someone that wants to become a welder to pay for a four-year degree. Community colleges also provide small class sizes and an opportunity for people that take an untraditional route through college. One thing that is awesome about America is opportunity exists and not everyone has to do the same thing to become successful.
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I agree with Justin White in his assessment that community colleges do provide benefits that some major universities cannot, though this is so different than the normal school of thought. I also agree that a community college does not mean a low quality education for those who couldn’t get into a major university. We automatically think that major universities are better in every way than community college because they have more resources. While they do have a bigger budget, this is and of itself can be a drawback of those major universities. The significantly smaller price tag associated with a community college is one of the biggest benefits they provide. We complain about the cost of education and how higher education is not available to everyone because of finances, but rarely do those complaining think about community colleges. They provide a good education with more specialized and smaller classes at a fraction of the cost of major universities. As White points out, many Americans find work within trades and do not need a four year degree for that. Just as we will always need people in these trades, such as plumbers and electricians, we will always need two year colleges. The stigma surrounding these schools does need to change. I’m not sure that it will, though. I do not know that the President delivering the commencement speech would change it. While it may boost the morale of the students and faculty at these schools, I do not think it would change the nation’s views on two year schools.
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I completely agree with Justin White that community college is a great alternative for families that are unable to afford to go to a university, however, I wouldn’t go as far as to say they are better than going to a major institution, as a freshman that attends a major institution, there have been many more opportunities available to me than my twin sister who is a freshman at a community college. I would say that community college is better for those who cannot afford a major university all four year and for those who are in circumstances, with that being said I agree that there shouldn’t be a stigma that community college is only for those who couldn’t get into a university, there are too many different circumstances for people to make such assumptions. People who attend community college should be proud because they are also making steps to obtain a degree of higher education.
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It is common place in the United States today to dismiss community college as a step down from a 4 year University, and if not for the Obama presidency this stigmatized ideology would have gone unchanged. Brian Geodde uses his New York Times article “Talk to Us, Mr. President” to voice his opinion on the issue. Geodde analyzes the change in thinking that has occurred since the current President took office, noticing change in both student pride in Community College as well as the general public opinion of Community College. Geodde uses his own experiences to shed light on this changing ideology, and his belief that public college education should be free to all.
Personally, I am on two minds when it comes to considering free public college education. While I do believe every young person should have the ability to attend a university, I also agree with critics on this lowering the value of a college degree. In America today every child must attend school through high school legally, but there is no requirement on university schooling. I feel that as long as it is not required to attend university, however the option is there if a student desires to continue onward, our children will become exponentially smarter. I definitely feel that if public college is made free, then the quality of material and the difficulty of community college should be increased, therefore balancing opportunity with challenge.
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I disagree with the people above that free public education reduces the value of a college degree; I fully endorse that all young people should have the right to an education. The stigma against community colleges that they are for students who cannot attend a “real” college is bad. Students who take advantage of community college and then go on to transfer into a state college or university save a lot of money, so they do not finish school with thousands of dollars in dent. It is often said that the only difference between an English 101 class at Harvard compared to a community college is the amount it costs. Consequently, the students who go to community college to save money are the smarter ones because they are saving money in the long run.
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I disagree with Lauren E’s post that says that free public college education does not reduce the value of a college degree. Although I believe that every student should be given a chance to further their education after high school, if every high school student got a free education the amount of college diplomas would rise, causing the value of them to drop. I also think it is unfair to give the students who work so hard in high school the same chance as those who do not do anything. Free college should be earned not just given out to every high school graduate. However, I do agree with her when she expresses that community college is a smart route to take because it saves students thousands of dollars. If a student can avoid two years of paying a college tuition and still has the chance to earn college credits, I believe that is a very smart and mature decision.
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Professor and writer Brian Goedde explains in his article “Talk to Us, Mr. President” that America’s negative stigma around community college leaves a great void in pride in the student’s who attend but President Obama’s recent interest and focus on community colleges may be changing that. I agree with commenter Justin White in that the attending community college can often be the best option for individuals in regards to higher education, a point that needs emphasizing since so many people often overlook the value in attending community college. Those unfamiliar with this school of thought may be interested to know that it basically boils down to cost efficiency. I agree with White in that for many trades a four year degree is not necessary and the cost gives many individuals the opportunity to receive an education at a higher level, something that, in today’s society, is necessary to expand ones job opportunities.
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I agree with Lauren E when she says that everyone should be given the opportunity of an education, even if that means a free education. I don’t think that this would devalue a college diploma because there will still be students who don’t have the work ethic to succeed in college. This would also open the door for more students to further their education and work towards more advanced degrees. If they were saving money on their undergraduate education, they might have more opportunities to attend graduate school. I also agree with the idea that community colleges are undervalued and it’s very good that President Obama is working to erase the negative image that is associated with these two year schools. They provide excellent opportunities for a much wider range of people.
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I disagree with users such as Justin who state that community colleges are not as good as a major institution. There are many people who use community colleges as a way to knock out their general education and then transfer into a major institution and can focus solely on the classes that will benefit their careers. In many cases, the people who go to community college to relieve the burden of college debt are smarter than those who are crippled by it. I think that President Obama has definitely created a shift in attitude at the ways that community colleges are looked at by the general public, and I think this is for the better. America falls severely low in lists of smartest countries. If the attitude for these institutions are more positive, than people are more likely to seek out an education and are more likely to better the country.
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I agree with Chris, who argues that Lauren E. believes free education is the way to go. If every high school graduate was allowed free education, there would be no prestige or value left in them. Giving everyone free college educations, awards those who didn’t work hard in high school, and life in general, equal opportunity to students who work extremely hard. Now when students take advantage of two free years of college credit at community colleges, that’s respectable. They are saving money and finishing out core classes, and getting a minor degree. But to give everyone free chances at receiving a major in a specialized field, just drops the value of earning that degree drastically.
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I agree with Brad S. when he talks about how college education shouldn’t be free because it decreases the significance of the degree and equates it to a high school diploma. Along with this point, I believe that another reasoning why community colleges should not be free is because it is highly implausible to give free tuition to all students who attend. Goedde states that there are “1,655 community colleges nationwide (according to the Federal Department of Education), which constitution 47 percent of all college students enrolled at a public institution.” I would like to believe that each one of these colleges could be free for students to attend, but who would pay for the tuition then? It seems as if there would be more problems with having free education than just the fact that degrees would not hold as much importance. I agree with Justin White when he states that a lot of states offer scholarships to help people attend community colleges. I believe that the argument of making college’s free is just a lazy response against the high price of tuition. I firmly believe that attending college is not a right for everyone, but a privilege.
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Brian goedde really cares for the students and knows what their going through, so he knows if Barack Obama gave a commencement address at a community college there will be less students ashamed of saying where they’re attending school at. In Goeddes final statements he brought up Obama saying community colleges being “unsung heroes of Americans education system”, and how those words made his students feel good about themselves, so if Obama would make a speech at a graduation this would open a big door of students proud to be apart of attending community colleges.
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Goedde, author of the article Talk to Us, Mr. President, writes about the closed mindset of those attending community colleges nationwide. The negativity ranges in all ages attending these institutions, and Goedee can’t seem to figure out why considering our own President Obama has talked so highly about community colleges and referred to those who attend as heroes. As a result, Goedee suggests that President Obama comes to a community college and recites a commencement speech, as it would mean so much.
Its pointed out that President Obama refers to community colleges as “undervalued assets”, and “unsung heroes of America’s education system”. Thus, why Goedee would appreciate Obama giving a commencement speech at a community college. It would show the nation that community college matters in comparison to schools such as Harvard, Yale, and even Fairfield University who have had many prestigious figures previously speak. Not only to Goedde would it matter, but to those attending community college it would matter significantly. A speech by someone as notably recognized as the President, referred to one of community colleges biggest cheerleaders, it would put aside the negative mindset of community college and make them feel like they matter.
In sum, then, Goedee’s request to President Obama to give a commencement speech at a community college is a great idea and would be a wake up call for most of this nation and their views on community college.
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President Obama’s initiative to help raise the graduation rate and make community colleges more accessible helped get rid of the stigma that surrounds community colleges. Goedde wants Obama to speak at the commencement of a community college because Obama did so much to promote the school spirit of community colleges and Goedde believes that the crowd would greatly thank him. “Here they are, diligently working in the shadow of a negative public image, and they find themselves the subject of great value in the words of the president” (Goedde). Community colleges flew under the radar and were so looked down upon for so long but thanks to President Obama he praised students of community colleges. Obama addressing a group graduating from a community college would be so powerful and so personal because he did so much to support them and to try to get rid of that stigma that they were not good enough.
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As Geodde highlights in his piece, the need for Obama to give a commencement speech at a community college is not just to bring some school spirit to that individual school, it to rid our nation of the negative attitude toward community colleges. Since Geodde believes Obama has essentially been their biggest cheerleader, he states that it is crucial for Obama to give this speech as a way to help the junior college community believe that they matter just as much as any top tier university. President Obama references community college members as “unsung heroes of America’s education system” thus implying the value that community colleges have while emphasizing the idea that more people need to recognize this idea. In conclusion, it is a very good idea to suggest that President Obama should give a commencement speech at a community college because doing so will help defeat the stigma even more than his previous positive references to education received at junior colleges.
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In Brian Goedde’s article, “Talk to Us, Mr. President”, Goedde discusses why he wants President Obama to give the commencement address at a community college. Goedde mentions how President Obama thought that the people who attended community college were heroes. He wants the president to give the speech because he thinks that it will encourage all of the students in community college and make them feel like they are normal. Brian Goedde thinks that Obama’s speech would matter to the people. Right now, the students at a community college are “diligently working in the shadow of a negative public image” (Goedde). If President Obama gives the commencement address at a community college, not only will it lift the spirits of the students attending a community college, but it will also be part of Barack Obama’s legacy.
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Goedde wants president Obama to give the commencement address at a community college because he feels as though Obama can make these students feel as though they are valuable members of the community. Goedde thinks that an address by Obama would matter so much because these students would look up to him. Obama called community colleges the “unsung heroes of America’s education system”. In this article, students talk about how they sometimes feel lesser for attending community college. For example, one student said “I would say I’m proud of myself for going here, but I wouldn’t say I’m proud of the school.” There is often a negative stigma associated with community colleges. However, if Obama were to speak at a community college, it would make students feel as though their educational experience is valid.
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Brian Goedde discusses a view that is shared by a majority of America, including those at community college, that community college is not a source of pride or accomplishment. If you were to conduct a survey of kids graduating at a high school, in my opinion, most would state a community college is not a desired or praised option for graduates. Community colleges carry a “stigma of being a college for kids who couldn’t get idiot a real college.” No one is proud that they go to their local community college that some will even hide it through saying they go to a satellite campus of a larger university or simply have very little school pride. Not having school pride is not the worst effect of community colleges, but it is certainly not helping the problem. Low school pride is going to directly effect morale and enrollment of community colleges. Similar to an amusement park with lame reviews, no one is going to want to go to it, but it doesn’t stop certain people from still enjoying it.
President Obama giving a commencement speech at a community college would be the ultimate praise. Everyone in America would hear about it, and gain interest in community college. The current high schooler who is considering college to the middle class worker who wants to go back to school. No longer is there only a 4 year, expensive college or trying to work yourself up the work social order. Community colleges will grow in popularity and success with more people utilizing them.
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Goedde discusses a very interesting and controversial issue that has become common in today’s society. Goedde talks about how some people are ashamed to go to community college. He mentions that many people feel less educated if they went to community college. Goedde believes that if President Obama came and gave a commencement address at a community college it would give the school a better sense of value and pride of the school. As Obama beautifully states in his State of the Union address that community colleges are the, “unsung hero’s of America’s education system.” This goes to show though going to whatever college does matter in some way, but at the end of the day all that matters is getting an education. Its what you do after you graduate with the knowledge you have gained that counts.
If Obama gave a speech at a community college it would not only give them pride but as well as a sense of identity as a college. One thing that caught my eye that Mr.Goedde said was, “In my classrooms I always saw the bright, bold logos and snarling mascots of those four-year schools on students’ sweatshirts and hats, but almost never did someone wear something promoting our own, dear W.C.C.” Students at community college didn’t even want to have a connection to community college, which is sad to here because my father personally went to community college and now is the owner of a successful tile and housing company, providing education, food and shelter for his family. Mr.Goedde provides many great points and it is important to break the thought of community college being a bad thing. With Obama who carry’s so much importance were to give a speech at a community college it would give the community college and most importantly the students that sense of importance in there education.
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Goedde believes that Obama presenting at a community college would assure students of the true value of their education, and would mean more than just hearing him speak of the value of the colleges in a speech anywhere else. If Obama were to address a crowd at the white house and talk about the significance of community colleges, it wouldn’t have very much significance since people listening to him speak would not be able to relate as clearly as people who were at a community college. It adds extra value to hear a man speak than to read what he said, hearing first person “did you hear that? Our president thinks we’re heroes!” has more meaning than writing. With previous criticism of being a lower-class way of education, said to give degrees “as universal as high school”, having Obama speak at a community college about community colleges would not only raise pride in the colleges but also value in the education offered.
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I believe that Goedde would want President Obama to speak at a community college graduation because that would show his support for community colleges. In his article he talks about how President Obama “has helped immeasurably with the one resource that has most needed a boost: school pride.” I believe that if just mentioning community colleges could increase school pride then I think President Obama speaking at a commencement would greatly increase school pride as well as draw attention to community colleges. The President is a very prominent figure and he would draw lots of positive attention to community colleges. Often times community colleges do not get lots of positive attention therefore his presence at a commencement would be a great benefit to school pride and bring positive attention.
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My own view is that community colleges haven’t earned the same respect a major institution usually gets because of the stereotypes they have. Though I concede that college might only work for some people because of the programs they have, I still maintain that colleges programs are as good as the ones a university might have. People sometimes think that because colleges are less expensive the quality of education is less as well. They think that people that attend colleges rather than universities are lazy because they do not usually pursuit the academic career people that attend universities do. Although some might object that colleges do not merit the same respect as a major institution does, I would reply that is not the place that make an institution good but the people that works hard and put all their effort in it.
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It is often said that community colleges are not credited with having the same caliber as four year university does . A number of statements made by President Barack Obama, however, have suggested that not only are community colleges great institutions, but “undervalued asset[s].”(Goedde) Following this view, Goedde finds it important that President Obama speak at a community college graduation ceremony because it would increase pride in such institutions where many students work hard, but do not wish to share with others pride in their work due to the name and status of their school. Though some may argue that President Obama himself attended not only a four year college, but an Ivy League. This may be refuted by the fact that his education, though it contributed to his success, is not relevant in making a change in the stigma that surrounds community college.In sum, then, the issue is whether President Obama’s speech would be greatly impactful or not .
I think that Obama making a speech at a community college would be very influential. It is not often that people are inspired, and Obama would be an encouragement and symbol that not only does he approve of the education given at a community college, he promotes it. Though I concede that it may be seen as a pity gift, however in his speeches before, including the talks at the White House Summit on Community Colleges and the State of the Union last year, Obama’s words have made a larger conversation in classrooms like Goedde’s. For example, Goedde writes that “When I asked them about their pride in our school, some laughed, and most looked at me quizzically.” (Goedde). In making this comment one should note that pursuing higher education is something that all people should be proud of, no matter what institution they attend. The issue is important because Goedde’s students, and all students, deserve to say that they attend community college or a four year school and know that not only are they recognized by themselves, their peers and family, but by the President of the United States as well.
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Goedde entered the larger conversation on community colleges, stating that President Obama should hold a commencement address at a community college. Some students that go to community college are ashamed to mention that they are attending the school, which directly impacts the school spirit. For example, Goedde shared that he “…always saw the bright, bold logos and snarling mascots of those four-year schools on students’ sweatshirts and hats, but almost never did someone wear something promoting our own, dear W.C.C.” Although the reputation of community colleges has improved drastically after Obama mentioned the importance of community colleges in several speeches, there is still a lot to be done to change the way people see community colleges. To do so, Goedde calls upon Obama to make sure this mentality of community colleges are bad changes and that people realize that community colleges are “unsung heroes of America’s education system”. It is important that someone like Obama shines a light on this issue, as it will not only reach a large audience but because he has the resources and means to start the movement into the right direction. In sum, Goedde believes that Obama could initiate change regarding the reputation of community colleges by holding a commencement speech at a community college.
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In recent discussions of pride at community colleges, a controversial issue has been whether Obama should, by the end of his presidency, speak as a commencement speaker for a community college. On the one hand, some argue that little has changed during Obama’s presidency in material forms including a low graduation rate, and high tuition (Goedde). From this perspective, many individuals may believe that since Obama has achieved little, there would be no benefit from having the president address a speech at a community college. On the other hand, however, others reason that Obama has in fact lifted the spirits of students who attend community colleges by making scholars feel important and respected. In the words of Goedde, one of this view’s main proponents, “here they are, diligently working in the shadow of a negative public image, and they find themselves the subject of great value in the words of the president” (Goedde). According to this interpretation, Obama has increased school pride in community colleges as there has been a decrease in the shame felt by many students. In sum, then, the issue is whether Obama should focus on community colleges in an attempt to change how community colleges are viewed by society or if the President should focus on other aspects of education with his dwindling time in office.
My own view is that Obama should attend as a commencement speaker at a community college, as with his help, countless learners could establish themselves and their identities. Though I concede that much of how society views community colleges would not change, I still maintain that what is beneficial by this experience, is the pride and increased respect students would obtain in community colleges from Obama’s speech. For example, many students wear university gear from huge universities near their community colleges, and many do not tell others that they are pursuing an education at a “lower institution”. Although some might object that you do not have to wear school gear to showcase pride, I would retort that physical appearance and the language students use should be taken into consideration. The issue is vital because as the effort to decrease tuition in local colleges continues, the need for pleasure and sense of individuality at community colleges needs to be addressed.
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Goedde wants president obama to give the commencement speech at a community college because he believes that by doing so he would generate a more positive outlook on not only the specific community college but all community colleges as a whole.He highlights the stigma of community colleges in paragraph three,saying that many of the students are ashamed or unenthusiastic about the community college they attend and therefore Goedde wants to bring positive attention and school spirit to these schools because he believes that they are not being used to their full potential in the United states, moreover he also wants his students to see that they should be proud of the education they are currently reiving instead of being embarrassed or underwhelmed by the idea that it is not a “real college”.in conclusion Goedde wants President Obama to show even more support for community colleges by coming forward and addressing the students in their commencement speech.
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A wide range of people currently view community colleges as less than other “big name” universities. Although they feel that a diploma from a community college is worth little in today’s society, others see the situation from a different perspective. Some people, including Brian Goedde, the author of “Talk to us, Mr. President,” and myself, believe that community colleges are beneficial to students and are necessary for our country to thrive. For one, community colleges cost less money to attend. Everyone may not have the money to go to a well-known school but still may want to pursue a higher education. It would not be fair for others to have to struggle to make money just because they may not have much in the present. Also, some people just do not see the need to travel far from home to get an education if they are able to have one near their own town. Some students coming out of high school have jobs to help provide for their families and cannot leave due to this. Goedde wishes that President Obama would speak at a community college before the end of his presidency because it would help break the stereotypes that so many people face regarding school status and pride. In his article “Talk to Us, Mr. President,” Goedde mentions “Here they are, diligently working in the shadow of a negative public image, and they find themselves the subject of great value in the words of the president.” Geode explains how in the eyes of many, community college students are viewed as inferior, but when President Obama mentioned them in a speech, he proved how anyone aiming to pursue a higher education is on the same playing field. This one statement made by Obama sparked a sense of pride in community college students and professors. Geode feels that if just one statement could do that, then a commencement speech would completely end the discrimination of those associated with community colleges. All in all, the size of the school does not matter but the effort of students within it does.
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My own view is that Goedde wants Barack Obama to give the commencement address at a community college because by doing so Obama would be creating a more positive outlook on the community college society. Obama would also boost the moral and create a better atmosphere for the students who do attend community college and for those that plan on attending. Obama’s critics point out that graduation rates are still low and students still pay a high tuition, but as Brain Goedde stated, “but as a community college instructor I can say that, in spiritual terms, he has helped immeasurably with the one resource that has most needed a boost: school pride” (Goedde). Obama giving the commencement at a community college would have a profound impact on the community college society. Goedde thinks that if Obama gave the commencement at a community college it would matter so much because he is a national figure, everyone knows who he is and everyone, for the most part looks up to him. The students who attend these colleges admire Obama, he is a powerful and intelligent man and if he came to one of their schools it would have a tremendous effect on them. One student in the article said, “I’m proud of myself for going here, but I wouldn’t say I’m proud of the school” (Goedde). Students are embarrassed of the school they attend, but if Obama was to come and give the commencement their it would boost their moral and self-confidence. The students would feel like their education was more important and more valuable to them.
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When it comes to the topic of the bad reputation that community colleges have, Brian Goedde states that Barack Obama has given a moral boost to many students attending these institutions. On one hand, there are students that don’t agree with what Obama said in his 2015 State of Union address, since community colleges were identified as “universal high schools”. Consequently, according to them, the value of the associate’s degree was compared to the value of a high school diploma, which caused disagreement among students. On the other hand, many were extremely encouraged by Obama’s words, as he clearly stated the reality of the matter by admitting that community colleges are “undervalued”. Obama moreover discussed that the cost of these colleges needs to be lowered to zero, and called them “the unsung heroes of America’s education system”. All of these words certainly boosted the students’ pride, for this reason Goedde would be delighted if Obama gave the commencement address at a community college, since the students should never feel embarrassed of being part of such academic institutions. Goedde himself writes “he has helped immeasurably with the one resource that has most needed a boost: school pride.” and “We may not have a fight song, but it has been extraordinary to have our president as our biggest cheerleader.” Basically, Goedde is saying that for community colleges having Obama’s support to obtain more respect from society is essential and to enhance their pride it is important as well.
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Over the past several years President Obama has tried his best to promote community colleges. Although many people do not see an improvement in community college’s tuition and graduation rate, one thing that did improve was school pride. Goedde found that because of Obama school pride in community colleges changed for the better. Since Obama did not give up on community colleges, Goedde believes that it would be beneficial for Obama to give a commencement address at a community college. Goedde thinks that if Obama gives the speech more people would feel proud to have attended a community college instead of hiding it. Goedde states, “As another student once said in class, ‘I would say I’m proud of myself for going here, but I wouldn’t say I’m proud of the school.’” Basically Goedde is saying that if Obama gave the speech more people would be open to attending community colleges and would feel less embarrassed when telling people where they attend. Not only that but Goedde believes that President Obama should be thanked for his efforts in promoting community colleges. According to Goedde, “The foundation of community college school spirit will certainly be one of his legacies, and the president should have a crowd robed in bright, bold colors to thank him in return.” I agree with him because of Obama’s efforts more student’s are proud to say that they attend a community college and more student’s are open to attending a community college.
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Goedde wants President Obama to give a commencement address at a community college to show support for the community colleges. The stigma that society gives towards these schools is negative and discourages the students. If the President of the United States, spoke to these graduates I believe it would give them the support and encouragement they need and deserve. Goedde believes that this would show his appreciation for community colleges. The author spoke about the comment Obama made about community colleges and how he spoke about it in a negative way. I think it would be a good move to show his appreciation for all students.
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After reading the article from the New York Times, it is important to notice that Brian Goedde sees how going to a community college can affect someone’s confidence. Goedde states that when a student is asked where he/she goes to school, they mention a different school. Goedde wants to change the perspective that community colleges aren’t good enough or they don’t meet the standards of a good education. He feels if President Obama were to come give a speech at any community college, a positive affect would happen on the self-esteem of those students who attend a community college. Another student said, “I would say I’m proud of myself for going here, but I wouldn’t say I’m proud of the school (par 5).” Those students who attend community college for whatever reasons, Goedde wants them to be proud of where they go to school and to feel that attending a community college is just like a attending a university; a speech by President Obama can do just that.
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In Goedde’s “Talk to Us, Mr. President”, Goedde is addressing the societal stigma that comes from attending a community college. Many community college students today do not show the same quantity of pride as do other, larger state schools. However, this changed a little when President Obama called these students the “unsung heroes of America’s education system” at the White House Summit on Community Colleges in 2010. This statement gave rise to a renewal in school pride and spirit within community college nationwide.This major impact is why Goedde believes President Obama should give a commencement speech at a community college because it would show the students that they truly are the “heroes” of education and the future of America. A commencement speech would illustrate Obama’s belief in the community college system and how the education that is offered in these colleges is reputable and deserving of admiration. Goedde knows that the college students will “thank him” for proving his confidence in community colleges and understand how important this speech would be for his legacy as president.
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In Goedde’s essay, he talks about the negative stigma that surrounds the typical community college experience. He explains that many people flee away from community colleges due to the negative connotation generally associated with this type of educational experience, which is deemed to be subpar compared to a private institution. What Goedde argues is that community colleges are much more cost-efficient, lifting a financial burden that often chains down college students in an unrelenting cycle of debt. He also describes that in fact 47 percent of students are enrolled in a community college. So what would it mean if Obama gave his commencement speech at one of these colleges? It could potentially mean that Obama could steer people away from the present societal connotation that community college is a subpar substitute for “real” education and actually build a movement for students to move towards a more cost-efficient college experience. Instead of neglecting community colleges, Obama could open many Americans’ eyes to another option for secondary education that could lead to a more prosperous future.
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In his article found in the New York Times titled, “Talk to Us, Mr. President”, Brian Goedde, a community college professor in Michigan, stresses the impact that President Obama’s words have on the junior college society. The standard way of thinking about the topic of community colleges versus large four-year institutions seems to be that community colleges are the inferior establishment meant for not the brightest of students. In other words, community colleges are typically viewed as a joke and nobody attending a community college is proud of it. This notion has changed over recent years, however, ever since President Obama has praised community colleges in America and called them the “unsung heroes of America’s education system”. Brian Goedde explains the positive influence that Obama’s words have had on the community college students and overall atmosphere. After the president’s speech, Goedde describes how this positive impact occurred with his students when he wrote, “ Here they are, diligently working in the shadow of a negative public image, and they find themselves the subject of great value in the words of the president.” Goedde believes that with the help of President Obama, the image and success of community colleges across the nation can only improve.
Goedde goes on to show how he wants Obama to make a commencement speech at a graduation of a community college as he believes that this would be a monumental step in terms of boosting the confidence and morale of the community college campuses across the campus. To talk about how great community colleges are is one thing, but for President Obama to actually attend a graduation and show his appreciation for these schools in a physical way, the beneficial impact on the society would be massive. This topic matters because community colleges make educate 47 percent of all college students attending a public college. A confident and educated majority of young students coming out of community colleges will only improve the nation and I think the government and the president should take advantage of this, as it will only benefit the entire nation.
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Stephanie McClure
Professor Louis
English 0011-27
1 November 2016
Talk to Us, Mr President
In recent discussion of community colleges, a controversial issue has been whether Barack Obama followed what he promised in his election of presidency to help community colleges and give them benefits they need. On one hand, some argue that Obama changed the way people saw community colleges. In the words of Brian Goedde, one of this view’s main proponents, “The Obama presidency has changed this perception. In retrospect, I see the “unreadable nods’ as probably knowing something about community colleges but not being used to talking about it” ( Goedde). From this perspective, people believed that the students at these schools started to have more pride in their schools and started to realized to be proud of themselves. On the other hand, however, others argue that Obama has not completed what he promised because the cost of the community colleges has not gone down to zero dollars. Even though, Barack Obama has not gave full benefits to community colleges, Goedde believes that it would be a great idea for Obama to give his commencement speech at a community college because it will inspire young college students to dream and have great aspirations.
My own view is that it would be a great idea for Obama to give his commencement speech at a community college because it will help students from all different backgrounds to be motivated in school. Similarly, Goedde writes, “Other than that, my students’ responses have been overwhelmingly positive, here they are, diligently working in the shadow of negative public image, and they find themselves the subject of great value in the words of president” (Goedde). Therefore, Goedde believes that Obama giving the speech would matter so much because it will open up the doors for everyone to get proper education. Overall, Obama should give his speech at a community college because it will inspire all different students.
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Goedde mentions criticism of President Obama twice in his essay. The first mention of criticism comes in the second paragraph when he agrees with the critics when they say “little has changed in material terms.” Goedde presents the criticism in an effective way because he goes on to say that Obama has helped a great deal in “spiritual terms.” This is a great way of presenting a negative argument, but then refuting it with a positive argument. This technique of anticipating objections is scene in the reading Planting a Naysayer in Your Text. The second mention of criticism comes later on in the essay, when Goedde says that most of his students did not like President Obama’s 2015 State of the Union address. They did not like it because of when he stated that community colleges should be as “universal as high school.” However, in the next paragraph, Goedde talks about how despite that one line, his student’s responses have been very positive. This is again using the techniques in the reading Planting a Naysayer in Your Text. A great quote found in Planting a Naysayer in Your Text that supports the technique used by Goedde is, “We are urging you to tell readers what others might say against you, but our point is that doing so will actually enhance your credibility, not undermine it.” (p.75) Ignoring the criticism may end up damaging your argument and credibility, so by presenting the criticism and then presenting a positive aspect it enhances your argument.
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Brian Goedde presents a plea in his article “Talk to Us, Mr. President” for Barack Obama to point the spotlight of political attention and the public eye back on the importance and promotion of community colleges. These “unsung heroes” as the President put it, are an integral part of American society, and although the President’s frequent mentioning of the institutions has boosted awareness and moral, Goedde, a professor at the Community College of Philadelphia, still feels there’s much to be done, and many promises to be fulfilled. To make his argument relevant, Goedde must answer the “So what?” and “Who cares?” questions of addressing a debate such as this. In terms of who is caring, Goedde sites the many times President Obama has praised community colleges on major stages, meaning the President cares, and therefore so should you. Goedde continues his mission for pertinence by dropping some intriguing statistics about the true number of people the status of community colleges effects, noting the 1,655 community colleges across the country holding 47% of all college students enrolled at a public institution. Clearly this point of contention goes beyond the concerns of just Professor Goedde, if half of our nation’s public students are found in the halls of community colleges and our President has put lowering tuition at the top of his priorities. For many more than one might think, this issue is pressing and must be addressed.
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President Obama giving a speech at a community college would not only give the students a boost in school pride, but it would also draw positive attention to community colleges. This is very important because there is not much positive recognition that goes with community colleges, but rather all that is ever heard about them is negative. Viewing community colleges in a more positive light would give many people a new view of them. This new view would bring an increase in school pride, and a possible increase in students who choose to attend community colleges. A figure, like Obama, who is so influential will draw lots of attention community colleges. Obama talking about the value that one can receive from a community college education could possibly increase the amount of students who choose to attend. I believe that it would be great if Obama spoke at a community college commencement and that would increase school pride and acceptances.
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I agree with Ryan Town who believes that community colleges are just as “good” as private ones. He states, “There are many people who use community colleges as a way to knock out their general education and then transfer into a major institution and can focus solely on the classes that will benefit their careers.” His words are very clear in that he believes, and rightly so, that many people attend community college with the intent to transfer to a more prestigious one after acquiring the necessary classes. I am one of those students and know many others with the same plans.
The only thing I will add is that there are also numerous people who graduate from community colleges that never intended to transfer in the first place. Community colleges are not simply transfer schools, but also provide quality education to meet otherwise unrealistic goals. Many students cannot attend universities because of costs, work, family, and various other issues. These very valid reasons for remaining at a community college in no way reflects on the quality of education a person can achieve.
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If Goedde and Biggs are correct in saying that community college is a better choice for many students than going straight to a major institution, as I think they are, we need to reassess the popular assumption that community colleges are for those who can’t get into major institutions and provide a less quality education. Also,contrary to popular belief community college has a lot of benefits that a major university can’t provide. On the other hand,attending community college is much more affordable than a major college. A lot of states offer scholarships for community college that help keep prices down. I think in America we need people that work in every trades and a lot of trades don’t require a four-year degree. It doesn’t make sense for someone that wants to become a welder to pay for a four-year degree. Community colleges also provide small class sizes and an opportunity for people that take an untraditional route through college. Lastly,one thing that is awesome about America is opportunity exists and not everyone has to do the same thing to become successful.
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I agree with some of what Ryan Town says. I think he is completely right that community colleges can act as a cheaper alternative or stepping stone to more advanced programs at other universities. They can provide base level classes to introductory students or even high school students, giving them the opportunity to earn applicable college credits at a highly reduced cost. These community colleges help to provide schooling to many groups of students, but I do think that there are benefits of a traditional four-year program at an established institution. These major schools have funding and access to resources that make an experience there far more valuable than one that is spent at a community college. Individuals who attend a four-year school are able to be in programs that enhance their learning in a variety of ways, and also gives them the opportunity to network and make connections that are not possible at a community college. I liked the point that the author Brain Goedde made about brand name in a school, because I think that can have value when networking. I think community college has its purpose on some levels, but a four-year school is the better choice if it is an opportunity for someone.
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After reading this article I have to agree with Ciara. Barack Obama’s consistent recognition of community colleges has been almost as beneficial as the laws and movement he has created to support them. A lot of people I knew in high school ended up going to community college, maybe because they didn’t do well enough to get in anywhere else, maybe because they can’t afford another school. Either way most of them seem to be ashamed of their decision. I say they shouldn’t be, and that Obama is right. Community colleges are a great stepping stone for students to enter better colleges and universities and are a great way to prepare for a career. All schools in the University of North Carolina system accept transfers from my local community college so if you work hard they can end up taking the same path as your friends did but for less money.
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I agree with Justin White that society needs to reevaluate the way they view community colleges. In today’s world, college has become a sort of business where the price seems to never stop increasing. Most universities would be described as luxurious today when compared to only 20 years ago which has influenced the massive increase in price. When it comes down to it, I agree with Goedde that the pure education at a community college is equal to that of a four-year university. People today now pay for all the commodities and perks at a four-year university which is unpractical for many. I think it’s smart of people to save a large amount of money by attending a community college. After receiving an Associate’s degree, community college graduates can then decide if it’s worth it to them to attend a large university for two more years in order to receive a Bachelor’s degree.
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I disagree with much of what Lauren E has to say. One major point of contention is where she equalizes the quality of education at one of the most famous universities in the world, Harvard, to that of a community college. While I do think that the base material will be the same, the overall experience and quality of the teachers at Harvard vastly outweigh those at a community college. While I do believe and agree with her that students who go to community college are smart for saving a lot of money, I would not go as far to say that they are smarter than the students at Harvard. The students at Harvard are some of the most gifted minds in the nation and saying they “are not as smart” due to the fact that they spend more on their education is simply ridiculous. Although I disagree with many of her points, I fully agree with her idea that the stigma against community colleges should be addressed and fixed. These community colleges allow for a whole new group of students to receive higher education who may not have been able to afford a four-year university or would not have been able to be far away from their homes. Lauren E’s beliefs about free public education, however, I whole heartedly disagree with. Although I do believe that everyone should have the chance to receive education, I do not believe it should be free for anyone. I think that detracts the value from students who have worked their whole lives in order to garner scholarships that would allow them to go to the school.
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Goedde claims that community colleges have unnecessary stigmas and can be better that major institutions of higher learning. I can agree with both of these claims, but it is on a purely situational base. I agree with other people claiming that students that either cannot attend a major college or university, for whatever reason, can still receive a great education at a community college. These institutions are cheaper, easier to attend, and can provide nearly identical general degrees. While employers definitely value degrees from prestigious schools, community colleges provide more than enough opportunity for the average American worker. In cases where students must pay massive tuition, it may be a better idea to go to school much cheaper for a few years, even if their starting salary is slightly smaller. College tuition can take an entire lifetime to pay off, and it should be reduced by any means necessary. While every situation and career opportunities exist for each individual student, community colleges is the right choice for millions of young adults across the country. If President Obama can help people understand the choices they have following high school graduation, he should do so.
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I agree with Justin White that universities are not for everyone and that a community college can be the right choice for many people. He makes the point that someone who wants to be a welder does not need to go through the trouble of paying for a four-year university. I completely agree. I think that a community college allows people to have a college degree who otherwise might not have. Therefore, I do not think that a degree from a community college and a degree from a university are the same thing. A person who gone through a university to earn a degree in a major field has reached a level of qualification higher than that of someone who has gone to a community college.
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While I agree with Eliza W.’s reasoning as to why a college education should not be free, I must disagree with her claim that attending college is not a right for everyone, but instead a privilege. I can understand the roots of her argument, because some people do indeed work harder than others do throughout the lower education system. However, for many people it is nearly impossible to attend college because they cannot afford high tuition rates. A lot of people do not get to enjoy getting a higher education due to financial issues no matter how much effort they put into high school. Because of this, I believe that it is inconsiderate to suggest that free tuition is a “lazy response” to the high costs of college tuition. Education in our country is an equal right to all citizens no matter their background or status in society, it is not meant solely for those who can afford the “privilege.”
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