Attitudes Toward College

There were a number of generational differences that stood out to me while I read This Side of Paradise. For instance, I have no idea what a “bobbing” party is (unfortunately a quick search on the topic yielded only vague, unverifiable answers), nor am I familiar with schools such as St. Regis', Groton, or Pomfret, all of which seem to be well known at the time. These differences are almost irrelevant, however, and do not contribute anything to an analysis of the book. The more important differences are those concerning attitude, particularly Amory's attitude towards school.

Amory seems incredibly nonchalant about the subject of school. His request for schooling comes up in passing during a conversation with his mother, only to be thrown aside for the time being. Similarly, his decision to go to Princeton seems as though it was a last-second, easily made decision. This attitude is vastly different from today's general feeling toward school. Rarely is someone presented with the difficult choice between Princeton and Yale—and if they are, it certainly isn't taken lightly.

Beatrice's reaction to Amory's request for schooling strikes me as interesting. Rather than emitting pride at her son's precociousness, she is shocked by the request. Soon after, she confronts Amory with the news that he is to be enrolled. What changed her mind in such a short period of time? How could any mother go from shock to certainty concerning a path that did not match her original plans for her son? Furthermore, it seems strange that she is unconcerned about his future, saying “for the present, we'll let the university question take care of itself.” Modern parents—especially those of the upper class, I would imagine—think differently. School is often a necessity, one that should be handled with proper care. Applications and “resumé-building” are now crucially important, and applying for college is now a stressful process.

My first thought was negative; that perhaps our current attitude towards college is too competitive and harmful. Why can't it be a relaxing process? Go where you fit in, study what you enjoy. I certainly wouldn't have minded a more laid-back time while looking at colleges. A second look at the demographic seen in This Side of Paradise changed my mind. The students were not going where they belonged, but rather where their parents belonged. Those attending Princeton and Yale did so not because of grades or activities, but because they were expected to. Their social class led them on a specific schooling path, and they accepted it.

Contrast that with today, and the current system's benefits appear. No longer is acceptance based on financial situation or heritage. Hard work and dedication are the required assets. A quick look at Carnegie Mellon's diversity confirms this. Not all students here are rich, or come from well known families. Many, in fact, are the first generation in their family to attend college. Our generation is no longer confined by predetermined factors.