"Not only that - college doesn't particularly qualify you for the outside world. he world is changing so fast, and college is not. It should strive to be more in tune with the world"

Kent McCord’s observation addresses a growing disconnect between traditional college education and the ever-evolving demands of contemporary society. As technology, industries, and job requirements transform at a breakneck pace, the structures of higher education sometimes fail to keep up. The phrase “college doesn’t particularly qualify you for the outside world” suggests that the knowledge, skills, and experiences offered in many academic programs are not always directly aligned with what graduates face after leaving school. Employers increasingly value practical know-how, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that are often developed outside of lecture halls or textbooks.

McCord implies that colleges can be slow to adapt curricula or teaching methods, potentially leaving graduates underprepared for real-world expectations. The traditional university model, emphasizing theoretical frameworks or general knowledge, tends to prioritize established norms over innovation. As a result, while students may be well-versed in concepts or historical perspectives, they may lack exposure to current tools, technologies, or workplace practices that are critical to success in modern careers.

With the “world changing so fast,” new industries are appearing, old ones are reshaping, and operations are increasingly global and technologically driven. Meanwhile, many academic institutions move at a slower tempo, weighed down by bureaucracy or resistance to rapid curriculum change. The call for colleges to be “more in tune with the world” reflects the need for a more responsive, adaptive, and forward-looking approach in education. This could mean closer collaboration with industry, integration of experiential learning, internships, and project-based coursework that reflect real-world challenges. Faculty and administrators are invited to engage with ongoing societal shifts, ensuring that students leave campus not just with diplomas, but with practical abilities, networks, and the agility to continue learning throughout their careers. Embracing change and aligning educational goals with contemporary realities could bridge the gap McCord describes, making higher education more effective and relevant for the next generation.