Amanda Donoho

The General Education program at the University of South Florida (USF) aims to prepare students for success in their lives both inside and outside of the university. The author, Waugh, of “A Philosophy of a University Education” states that a General Education can prepare students for professions in “government, business, industry or other professions.” Another purpose of a General Education is to prepare us for further studies at post-graduate levels.

A General Education is a benefit to society and has been throughout history. It prepares citizens for leadership roles. The author refers to these leadership roles from classical Greek times as establishing governance in their communities. A student’s role is to use their education to help them understand their role in the universe. We are part of a global society, and thus affect one another’s lives. By studying at a university, the author believes it will cause “students to think about what it is to live in a society, to have a culture, and to speak a language.” The techniques used to enrich us through a General Education include looking to artifacts, learning scientific and mathematical systems, and studying the fine arts.

The gift of knowing oneself better and encountering and learning about various cultures and peoples can be gained through a university General Education experience. In addition to receiving an education, I believe that our lives can be enriched as citizens by volunteering in our communities and traveling to experience new places and new people. Learning at a university is only one of the ways to explore our world.