Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Open Letter to University Of Minnesota Regarding Diversity

Back some 6 years ago or so, the University of Minnesota wanted to cash in on the untapped 'Adult Learner' market. Remember 'University College'? "Hey adults, come get a degree in your spare time! Take night/weekend/internet classes to fit your busy schedule!" Remember this?

Now, some six years later, all I hear is how it is 'taking too long for students to graduate' and the ridiculous enforcement of minimal credit payment, which completely screws over people with jobs and families who want to further their education: "Sure, you can take one class if you want, but you have to pay for a full credit load!" As if the tuition hikes over the past two years weren't bad enough!

This is surprising for a University where the word "diversity" is implanted into every speech and publication, until it is overused into meaninglessness. It doesn't seem very diverse to me, to impede the ability of adults with jobs and families to take classes and get a degree in their free time.

I would expect more intelligent decisions from a group of people running a learning institution.

My suggestion is to either discontinue your use of the word "diversity", or bring back the University College, without the mandatory minimum credit bullshit, and time limits for graduation. Return some fairness to the system for people who did not just step out of high school.

Sincerely,
-CZ

Labels: Open Letter, rant, Ubersuck