The Class Divide

In a society where there are many “haves” and “have-nots” it is inspiring to see such a prestigious school fight to break down the barriers of social class. In Carl Marx’s conflict theory, society is viewed as an arena of inequality generating conflict and change. This is true for many pursuing an education. Often, lower and middle class families have difficulty financing the education of their youths. Either no secondary education is provided or families are forced to settle with what they can afford, not what they would like to pursue, or are qualified to pursue. "I think everyone in higher education is aware of the growing economic divide in this country, and the challenges that divide creates for institutions that want the best students from across the society," says Amherst president Anthony Marx. Amherst is trying to accommodate for those in the middle-class who have worked extremely hard to get placement at the school. They are provided with loans and financial aid; Amherst even provides suits to students for job interviews. Then you have students whose parents have been able to easily provide for them financially and are nearly guaranteed a great paying job after graduation. Ultimately Amherst is working to correct inequalities so that students can get the education they deserve.

Take Edinboro University for example, we all come here for similar financial reasons. We are given good educations but due to the lack of funds our environment isn’t as beneficial as some. I have a friend who attends Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. From discussing classes with her, yes her work load seems a bit more hectic than the load I have experienced but they are also provided with opportunities connections that we just don’t see here. This is strictly due to the social class. She has a friend who is music major; with his connections he has already become a millionaire, as a radio DJ. Students at Edinboro are lucky to get their name out there. When is the last time Bill Gates donated money for a new building on Edinboro’s campus? He has for Carnegie Mellon. It is obvious to see the divide of social class, and it would be nice to see it slowly disappear, however, I’m not sure if I see that any time soon.

What do you think can be done at small schools like Edinboro to help tackle this issue?

Why is it that this divide is so hard to correct?