#csus

State University Dr., Sacramento, California

Take coding, for example. I want to learn to code. I want to learn more about computers. I know how I learn best and I would like to pursue that independently, taking on self-directed projects and trying and failing and trying something different until I understand. I have no doubt that I could teach myself. None at all.

But let's say it turns out I have a talent for it. Let's say I end up being really good at learning different coding languages and I decide that maybe I want to make a career out of it. I'd have to get a degree, one way or another.

And then you know what? I'd be punished for everything I learned. There would be no "testing out" of the Basics classes. I'd have to fork over the money and do them again. Show up to lectures on repeated material. Do assignments designed to teach me something I already know. Possibly do poorly on said assignments because of lack of time and motivation. And so on and so forth.

And it's all just... incredibly disheartening. I don't dare pursue an interest because if it turns out to be something I love, it leads back to a series of hoops designed to cater to an average that fits no one perfectly and costs everyone more than they're worth.

I wanted to be an English major because I loved the English language and felt like I had a natural talent for it. I thought it would be a good idea to study what I loved. Instead I spent almost six years recycling essays I wrote in high school because there was no way to credit me for work I had already done. I almost failed Engish 1A because health issues prevented me from physically appearing at some of the lectures. Lectures on the basic structure of an essay.