Amanda, Accountant, GA

“I would like [my future children] to have the education to be able to do anything that they want. I want them to be able to figure out what they want to do, and not feel like they are limited.”

Imagine your future children are now in their 30s- out of school and starting into adult life. What do you hope for them about their lives? What would make it a “good” life?

I would like them to have the education to be able to do anything that they want. I want them to be able to figure out what they want to do, and not feel like they are limited. I also want them to know how to make money for themselves, so that they can be independent and not have to rely on anybody else. I want them to have the determination and drive to do that.

For me, a good life equals happiness. But everyone has happiness come to them in different forms. It can take time to figure it out.

Do you think everyone agrees with you about what a good life is?

No, I don't think everyone would agree exactly with me. But I think a lot of people would. Some people have higher standards for their kids. Some have their kids' lives set out before they are born. But I don’t want to do that for mine.

What role do you think schooling plays in achieving that ideal, good life?

I think it plays an inevitable role. Your kid is going to go to school, and it should teach them both social skills and educational skills. I hope that school will teach the same values as I will have for my children. I.e. Do what makes you happy, and get an education so that you have the option.

Do you think schools are currently playing the role that you think it should?

For the most part, yes. Although I’m not sure it did a good job of exposing me to different interests. College did a better job of exposing me to my interests and passions.

How do you think schooling could be improved?

I think it needs to be less standardized—not everyone learns the same way. It needs to be adaptable to teaching in different ways. I know this is difficult to implement, but individual attention, as well as student-centered learning would be better.