When entering into the CUNY system around a year ago I was completely oblivious of how CUNY worked. I was so nervous when I actually received the later that scheduled the date for me to take the CUNY Assessment. From my high school, my teachers always said that doing well on that exam is very important even though, it does not directly affect my GPA in college. However, many of my teachers explained to me that the CUNY assessment was very important because it determined my college classes and doing good on the exam could save me time and money. It really made me nervous can one test, on one day can predetermine the foundation of my college career.
The day I had to take the test I was so replaced. Baruch was huge. I did not know where I was going the minute I got off the 6 train. By the time I found the right Baruch building I did not know how I was supposed to get in or where I go for this exam. Everything seemed impossible at the moment. Baruch seemed like a far reach and it did not even seem like an environment where I would be able to spend my college experience. After around 10 minutes of looking for the right floor and room I started the exam on the computer and once I started I said to myself sarcastically “Here’s to college!” Although, I did fairly good not the CUNY Assessment the anticipation and pressure on the exam when it predetermines if I’ll waste my time and money taking remedial courses. The exam just did not seem fair or just to determine my college career since I worked so hard during my high school year to build myself to show to colleges through my GPA.
When I saw this article it really reminded me not too long ago when I was worried about the CUNY Assessment. I believe the efforts for change will benefit other prospective CUNY students to have a better shot at staying in college and enjoying their time even from the time they start freshmen year till senior year. I believe building and pushing oneself can be beneficial and be an authentic college experience. Taking remedial classes can feel so pointless since all the handwork put in is not accounted for. I believe for the ultimate college experience independent studying, hard work, sleepless nights, and challenging ourselves is all part of the college experience that can be translated into adulthood and real life. This article was comforting to know that although, I was once displaced in my pre-Baruch days it may be better for future CUNY students with this consideration for change in the CUNY system.