Search

ARCHIVES
CONTACT US
WORLD NEWS

'Underprepared' students can achieve success

To the Editor,

I agree with Mr. Cassino's point in his recent column that people should not feel that they have to gain a degree from a university in order to have self-respect or to gain the respect of others. I question, however, his assertion that those who are academically unprepared in some way should not be admitted to the University of Arizona. He states that those who "don't belong here" should go to technical or vocational schools and implies that attending a university is only for the most gifted.

As a full-time writing tutor here at the UA, I have seen many of the students I have tutored who are academically underprepared go on to achieve real success. They realize where their skills are deficient and work hard to improve. It is the University's responsibility to assist any student who is willing to work hard and take responsibility for their learning (which includes using resources that the University provides.) In fact, I admire many of my students who have overcome tremendous obstacles, including lack of academic preparation, and have written their own success stories. They have to overcome voices that tell them that they "don't belong here"- they choose not to listen. They have confidence that they can make a place for themselves at this institution of higher learning.

Mr. Cassino's ideal world where everyone "should" be prepared for college is just that - an ideal. In the actual world of strained finances, poor educational systems prior to college and rocky family relationships, academic deficiencies do occur. It is the job of the University to help those who want to overcome these difficulties rather than tell them that their situation is hopeless.

Shelly Dorsey

Writing Skills Improvement Program Tutor