Women enter college in hopes of securing a degree in their desired field of work. We collegiettes work tremendously hard to prosper in academia. However, there still exists the myth that women go to college not to start a career, but rather to find a husband. This has been famously deemed the “MRS” degree and has been debated amongst men and women alike for years. I am a female student at Wake Forest University and I, like many others, pride myself in my dedication to learning. However…
To put this idea into historical context, think back to the 1950s. It was believed that a successful woman was one with a nice home and a beautiful husband and children. Due to this concept of “success,” women went to school with the focus of finding a man and not necessarily a job. But now, the times have changed – or have they?
Many arguments against the “MRS” degree are based in feminist ideals, stating that women should not be forced to stay in the home and that a woman should not have to submit herself to a lifestyle that she does not choose. Women against the myth also believe that paying tuition is an impractical way to find a relationship and financial independence.
Counterarguments, in favor of the “MRS” degree, claim that going to school to meet a man has benefits. They argue that meeting a husband while in school nearly guarantees similar interests, acquaintances, and almost equivalent levels of intellect. Plus men and women are constantly engaged in courtship practices anyways, at social events and even in class.
The greatest powers women hold are choice and voice – the choice to forge their lives as they please. Many intelligent women enter college to find themselves since college is a time of great personal discovery.
So for my fellow collegiettes, take a few ‘courses’ in courtship (wink, wink), but focus your time at school on your interests!