Why choose a research university?

kwu
Sat, 03 Jan 2009 15:16:12 +0000

I don’t think there’s any shame in desiring to be taught. There’s a certain humility and luxury in that.

I am reminded of the example of the differences between an only child and a child with many siblings.

Whereas the only child has the complete and focused nurturing love, affection, attention of his parents–and ultimately may become more dependent on them for resources and care-- the child with many siblings simply can’t get that same sort of TLC, and on account of his circumstances, must learn how to become independent quickly lest he fall behind his brothers, sisters, and peers. There’s no father to pick him up when he falls off his bike and no mother to console him when he’s feeling down: he has to suck it up and grow up on his own.

Anyhow, enough of that. Who’s to say who’s more prepared for the real world? The kid from the loving, attentive background, or the kid from the tough and gritty one?