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WotD: Alma mater
Alma Mater is a Latin term meaning “nurturing mother” or “bounteous mother.”
It is used in English to refer to the school, college, or university that a person attended.
The term is used to show respect and gratitude towards the educational institution that helped shape one’s personality and career.
In the United States, it is common for children to attend the same alma mater as their parents.
This practice is often referred to as “legacy admission” which has been prevalent in Ivy League schools.
In legacy admissions, families with long-standing connections to the universities are given preference in the admission process.
Many universities have ended this practice because it is a contentious issue.
Some argue that it favours the wealthy and perpetuates inequality.
However, attending the same alma mater as one’s parents can also be a source of pride and family tradition.
It can create a sense of belonging and community, and students can benefit from the guidance and support of their parents, who have firsthand experience with the institution.
Additionally, many successful people like to donate to their alma mater to give back and support the institution that helped them achieve their goals.
These donations can fund scholarships, research, and infrastructure development and help ensure that future generations can access quality education and opportunities.
Overall, alma mater is a term that symbolizes the bond between an individual and their educational institution.
It represents the values, traditions, and experiences that shape a person’s life and career.
Whether one chooses to attend their parent’s alma mater or forge their path, the term reminds us of the importance of education and the institutions that provide it.
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