Another University Whinger
Recently, I stumbled across a particularly pathetic example of university whining on Reddit. An anonymous individual moaned about their time studying engineering at Victoria University in Wellington, labelling it “the most regrettable decision” of their life. Good grief! They signed up for a four-year engineering degree of their own free will, finished it, and now want to cry to the world that it was a waste of time.
What did this student expect? That the university rearrange its entire curriculum to suit their personal preferences? That prerequisites shouldn’t be prerequisites? That failing courses shouldn't have consequences?
Their complaints are laughable. They complain that Wellington's living costs are "1.5 times higher than Auckland." This is utter nonsense. Research shows that costs are comparable, if not marginally cheaper, in Wellington.
They then whinge about a "lack of intimate venues" in Wellington for meeting "like-minded people." They didn't just expect an engineering education; they wanted the university to provide an arranged marriage service! Wellington, New Zealand’s so-called “cultural capital”, apparently has no entertainment options. Someone immediately alert the hundreds of bars, cafés, and clubs because if so, there is a huge commercial opportunity to exploit!
Most laughably, they complain Wellington's airport is "too small to support long-haul international routes." What on earth does this have to do with engineering education? Did they expect to be taking the weekend to Paris?
Thankfully, the Reddit commenters showed some sense, rightly pointing out that prerequisites exist for a reason, that most degrees follow similar structures, and that failure rates reflect standards rather than some university conspiracy.
Students shouldn’t expect the University to play mummy, lover, career adviser, and travel agent rolled into one. Universities are there to educate. If you want fun, join a circus. If you want “intimacy”, download an app.
One sharp commenter asked the original poster some vital questions: Had they studied engineering elsewhere for comparison? Had they secured engineering work post-graduation? When did they study? Were they domestic or international? None of these questions received answers, which tells us everything.
The anonymous poster takes no personal responsibility for their educational choices, study habits, or social failings. Instead, they blame their University for not tailoring an internationally recognised engineering program to their whims.
Here's some advice for prospective students everywhere: universities aren't responsible for your happiness. They exist to provide education. If you want entertainment, join a circus. If you want “intimacy”, try a dating app.
Universities certainly have their problems. But a student's failure to properly research their choices before committing to them is not the university's fault.
The final irony? The poster concludes by telling others to "do deep research" before choosing VUW. Perhaps they should have followed their advice.
