Allison and Vanessa Torline

Vanessa: I am a writer and cannot see myself as anything else. I hope to work as a theater critic for a newspaper and/or write novels for a living. Today, I'm aspiring to a career that allows me to do just that — and, if fortune prevails, do a bit of traveling as well.

Allison: My college education will open doors for me both mentally and professionally. After my first year, I know I have experienced intellectual growth that can only continue as I pursue my degree. A degree will benefit my career and make me more presentable to future employers, or graduate schools. I feel that in today’s world, a college education is vital to achieving one’s dreams. I also believe that it is the responsibility of our nation and society to ensure that a college education is possible. Universities are increasing their standards, making acceptance increasingly competitive. I think the best thing our nation could do to encourage citizens to fulfill their dreams is to increase the quality of primary education, which entails increasing compensation for educators, which will, in turn, promote more of our nation’s best and brightest to pursue a career in education. Programs like the 21st Century Scholars Covenant with Indiana University give me hope that it is possible for deserving, but disadvantaged students to attend college. However, I worry that there are not more opportunities like this for all of our nation’s students. I worry that our nation may suffer, because those who are meant to be future leaders, scientists, and teachers may never meet their destiny, due to a lack of financial support.