Letters

    I’m writing to applaud Sean Cunnison Scott for his article on the academics at PSU [“Quantum Cynics,” 9/11/2006]. After reading an irksome article written by one of your editors in last week’s Portland Mercury, I was disturbed at the deliberate attempt to perpetuate the stereotype that Portland State is a waste of time. As Scott pointed out, there’s more than one way to skin a cat. A common misunderstanding among those who have never been to college is that once you earn a degree, top jobs are essentially given out like candy on Halloween. One of the many reasons I appreciate Portland State is that many students recognize this is a misconception and a lot of them work genuinely harder to make the most out of their degree by participating in extracurricular activities, getting involved in Student Organizations and taking advantage of the many student positions offered on campus (such as writing for the Vanguard). I know plenty of students who have earned degrees from Reed or Lewis & Clark and are currently making coffee at Starbucks or working in retail just to pay off their colossal student loans. They put a lot of effort into their academics and it shows. They wax philosophical and kick some serious ass at trivia on Tuesday night, but when does the practical application of their degree come into play? They never had recruiters from advertising agencies or talent agencies beating down their doors.

    In conclusion (with another idiom), put your best foot forward when it comes to your experience at PSU, but don’t blame PSU for your lack of enthusiasm and effort. As Scott pointed out, the most important factor in your education is you. Get involved in an organization you enjoy, or even better, start your own student organization. Take classes you delight in and pursue a degree in whatever it is you love. Pay no attention to the naysayers because who knows – you could be the next managing editor of the Portland State Vanguard.

Sincerely,

Maryjane S. Dunne

Class of 2007