"I found college useful for a lot of other reasons. It exposed me to a great many influences I wouldn't otherwise have encountered, and gave me a lot of time with some very intelligent people whose thoughts are still with me"

The quote by Walter Jon Williams assesses the broader instructional and experiential benefits of college beyond simple scholastic learning. Williams highlights the role that college plays in exposing students to diverse impacts and ideas, which may not have been possible in other places. This aspect of college life is crucial because it broadens one's perspective, enabling students to engage with a range of viewpoints, cultures, and disciplines that might be foreign to their previous experiences.

The recommendation to "a fantastic lots of influences" recommends the diversity of interactions and the wide variety of ideas that college students typically experience. This diversity can be important in forming one's intellectual and personal development, as it challenges presumptions and motivates open-mindedness. College typically functions as a melting pot of cultures and concepts, offering an environment where students can check out and question the world around them, promoting crucial thinking and development.

In addition, Williams highlights the value of time invested with "very smart people." This is a nod to the worth of networking and learning from peers and teachers who bring varied insights and understanding. These interactions can leave a long lasting impression, as discussions and disputes with intense, curious minds typically result in profound individual growth and the development of strong vital thinking skills. The phrase "whose thoughts are still with me" shows that these intellectual exchanges have a long-lasting effect, influencing one's thoughts and decisions even well after college.

Eventually, Williams' quote catches the essence of college as a developmental period that extends beyond academics. It's about individual development, exposure to originalities, and building lasting intellectual relationships. This more comprehensive instructional experience is vital, preparing individuals not simply for a career, however for a thoughtful, informed, and engaged life.