You are at a distant friend’s wedding. While other people fill the dance floor, you linger near the water table. You consume many cups of fresh water, trying to wash out the garlicky flavor of the hors d’oeuvres. A friend of your father’s, from work, approaches and strikes up a conversation. And you dread it.
In America (quite possibly in other countries, but I’ll only speak for America), the common ground for adults and soon to be adults, is college. Where did you go? When did you graduate? What did you study? Etc, etc, etc. They inquire about your choice of school, and you mention a well known state or private college. They nod. They went there, or their daughter went there, or their nephew went there. Common ground.
Enter me. As the oldest of eight, a homeschooler, and reaching 20 without a driving license, I’m already slightly socially awkward. Than you mention my college “experience” and people’s heads begin to explain. I am still at home, I’m a Junior but I’m not in a college, and I’m planning on graduating from a state college in New Jersey. Without going to New Jersey!!! Ahem.
Following are some of the comments I’ve heard following my explanation:
- Oh.
- I just don’t think that really counts
- How will you meet friends or a spouse?
- Oh.
- That is so cool! I wish I had done that.
- I wish my son would do that.
- Oh.
- (from your proctor) Do you know that most college don’t accept this many credits?
Let’s discuss how we share our college experience with other people this week. 🙂