Response: Two Years Are Better Than Four

English 101

Chad Allen

Response to “Two Years Are Better Than Four”

            College. The one word that forces high school students take a reality check on life. I was raised to do well in school in order to get into a 4-year university when I graduated. What some people do not realize is that students across America do not get in, or are not ready for a 4-year commitment to a university. Liz Addison addresses these concerns and responds to them in a positive manner. Addison explains how community colleges are useful to society and allow every student the opportunity to begin. She reminds us that no matter what path we take after high school, community college is always an option, and for some students, an option greatly appreciated.

            Liz Addison uses various techniques and “moves” in her writing, such as the use of supporting details. She uses the opposing view of Rick Perlstein in her introduction to emphasize the value of community college and how there are other options besides a 4-year university. Addison also, in my opinion, has a somewhat biased writing style, and she attempts to make clear to the reader her thoughts on the issue. Her writing changed my perspective on the issue greatly. I thought that community college was just college for mostly unintelligent people, rather than a college for people who just want to begin their higher education experience. Her article made me rethink my thoughts and to ultimately grasp onto a different opinion.

            With strong vocabulary, with supporting details, and with a persuasive style, Liz Addison makes it clear that the topic of community college is important and matters greatly to readers. She illustrates the beneficial parts of attending a community college, and puts community college in a positive light to the readers. Addison understands what high school students go through when deciding colleges and she shows how community college can be the right choice for these students.

            Liz Addison used summary specifically in her article by providing an accurate, but condensed form of the topic of community college. She did not go into too much detail on colleges across America, but she did analyze community college and showed how it is a key to success for many young adults. In her conclusion, Addison brings back Perlstein’s opinion and proves that he is wrong. She also addresses the fact that some students would never be able to possess a college experience without a form of community college. I personally believe Liz Addison does an extraordinary job advocating for community colleges and showing to the readers how important and critical it is to have them in society. “I believe the community college system to be one of America’s uniquely great institutions.” – Liz Addison