Why go to College?

"Why Go to College?" by Clayton Sedgwick Cooper is an educational treatise written in the early 20th century. The work addresses the purpose and value of a college education in shaping character, intellect, and social responsibility, reflecting on contemporary educational practices in America. It examines the overall characteristics of college life, exploring themes such as the role of great teachers, the importance of personal contacts, and the interplay between work and play among students. The opening of the work sets the stage by discussing the nature of the American college experience, highlighting the complexity of student life and the expectations placed on young men during that era. Cooper begins by emphasizing the need to understand the individuality of students amidst common stereotypes and criticisms. He delves into the students’ passions and motivations, differentiating them from mere "boys" or "young barbarians," and instead presenting them as individuals with deep aspirations. The narrative also introduces the potential for personal growth and leadership that comes from a college education, establishing an engaging groundwork for the subsequent exploration of why young men should commit to such an experience.