Pericles Lewis, Dean of Yale College

Purposes of College Education

College is a crucial institution through which our society sets expectations for young people. This podcast explores some of the purposes of a college education today, including conversation with others on intellectual matters, development of personal character, participation in a community, and preparation for citizenship. We look at practical and personal dimensions of college, including career preparation and pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. The episodes will be released in couplets for each purpose, pairing the historic with the contemporary to trace the lineage of each theme through the centuries. We encourage listeners to reflect on their own educational experiences and consider ways that college can meet the needs of future generations.