College Bound: Virtual or Reality
Joe Rogers, Staff Writer
February 5, 2009
Filed under The College Board
Technology has advanced the world into a new level of convenience. Pizzas can be ordered by a text message and spell check catches all of the “mistakes” in late-night reports. Furthermore, a computer can often take up the role of an entire school building. The question is: is the switch from traditional lockers and textbooks to hi-tech hard drives and keyboards worth it?
Virtual school opens up a variety of new classes, including AP courses and other credits that would put a nice shine on any college transcript. Bound by no eight-to-three school day, the student molds his schedule to fit the sunrise, sunset and all the areas in between. GPA’s can get a boost through these additional classes and courses can be interest oriented. But do students who receive only an online education gain a true school experience?
High school is the school colors on a jersey and the shine of the mascot off of a class ring. Survivor stories from notorious teachers bond alumni long after their four years are over, and a vintage yearbook stands on many bookshelves collecting dust, but is never forgotten. Editors-in-chief still feel the thrill of press and the rush of a coming deadline, and Homecoming Kings and Queens may still feel that crown on their heads. School truly forms the memories of a lifetime.
Any good college will be worth sacrifice, and students across the country are willing to give up anything if it secures them an acceptance letter. For some students, virtual school is that necessary action, and it is an option to be discussed with parents. Yet for many, college, like high school, is so much more than a mouse and screen.