College Education - Professional Preparation or Social Integration?

Before I begin tearing apart the educational system of an entire nation, I should first clarify that the term "college education" is very broad. A college education can range from a variety of different colleges, both public and private, small and large, from major cities or small towns. The types of majors also vary impressively. Majoring in medicine is not the same at all as majoring in social communication. But some similarities can be established. …

…in, and study material which I know will never be useful to me. Nevertheless, I understand that during the four years of struggle I will become part of a system: meet people, become familiar with procedures, and gain skills. By the time I have my Bachelor in Arts, I will find myself an integral part of a social system which I support, either actively or passively, and had the fortune to be a part of.