Do our students think that their liberal education proves
valuable in regard to their careers and finances in later life?
A purely economic indicator seems to show that their answer to
that question is Yes. Parents, in difficult economic times it is
tempting to steer sons and daughters to focus, narrow their
interests, and learn a specific set of skills that seem designed
for a particular job. To thrive in the world ahead, much more is
needed. Students interested in liberal arts subjects ought to be
encouraged to pursue these subjects, since we know that interest
is generally a key component of success, both in completing a
college degree and in acquiring the skills the graduates of
today will need for the jobs of tomorrow. The Founding Fathers
envisioned a Republic with an enlightened citizenry educated in
"all philosophical Experiments that Light into the Nature of
Things ... and multiply the Conveniences or Pleasures of Life"
-- not just technical training for jobs that pay well. Students
will not show the