Do Careerism and College Mix?

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To the Editor:

Re “Our Culture of Careerism Is Ruining the College Experience,” by Isabella Glassman (Opinion guest essay, Sept. 29):

The author is spot on about the pre-professional pressures students face and how this contributes to mental health challenges.

As a psychiatrist working with college students for 30 years, I have seen students sink into a depression if they are not achieving the perfect 4.0 to get into medical school, or hired by the finance or high-tech job leading to the most lucrative jobs.

The author rightly points out that parents have a big influence on their child’s career choice, and they should be most concerned about their child finding a career that makes them happy. I would add: a job that also pays the bills.

Young people are under increasing pressure now because of the high cost of living and housing, but they can still have a good and rewarding life with a job they love, and most important, a strong support system.

Marcia Morris
Ocala, Fla.
The writer is the author of “The Campus Cure: A Parent’s Guide to Mental Health and Wellness for College Students.”

To the Editor:

Isabella Glassman actually experienced what college should be all about: gaining knowledge to better shape life experiences — and good for her.