College acceptances are beginning to flood e-mail inboxes and mailboxes at a rapid pace. And, behind this influx of acceptances and rejections, lies a definite mean-spirited attitude, specifically in comparing California State Universities to Universities of California.
I, myself, will be attending Cal State University, Long Beach next fall. After careful research on a variety of schools, including UCs, I decided that CSULB was the best choice for me, and I was thrilled when I received my acceptance.
Peers asking about acceptances and college decisions is inevitable, and I proudly answered with CSULB whenever I was asked. Initially, I expected my good news to be received with “Congratulations!” but I soon learned that it was more likely I would be greeted with queries such as, “Didn’t you apply anywhere else?” and retorts consisting of, “I didn’t even bother to apply there,” or “But you totally could’ve gotten into a UC…”
This reaction boggles my mind. What’s with the unfair stigma associated with going to a Cal State? When did choosing to go to a Cal State indicate that a student couldn’t afford a UC or he didn’t get accepted to any good schools?
Today, UCs are blindly worshipped, while Cal States are seen as mediocre safe schools. Yet, Cal States offer opportunities to grow academically and get on track for a successful career just as any other college.
For example, my future area of study at CSULB, Film and Electronic Arts, will allow me to learn from faculty members who are industry professionals and media historians. Internships and networking are available and highly encouraged. And perhaps what I am most excited about are the student film showcases and career days.
Many people ignorantly assume that Cal States don’t provide students with adequate educations and career preparation because they aren’t UCs, but look at the facts.
A Cal State can be a first choice for academically prepared students, and the stigma against them is damaging to those of us who choose them as their first choice, like me. I chose CSULB as the best option for my major, and because it’s near home, but far enough away that I’ll get to live in a new environment. It was my first preference, and I won’t feel embarrassed for choosing it.