Does a college degree guarantee a job? In this episode, Robert talks with Dr. Benjamin Merkle, president of New Saint Andrews College, a classical Christian college in Idaho. In their conversation, Ben speaks to why NSA and other colleges are looking for students with a classical education background, how NSA is able to keep their tuition costs affordable and transparent, how a college can keep a good reputation amidst the current college climate, why liberal arts degrees can be kept affordable, what parents need to know before sending their children to secular universities, what students should aim to get out of a Christian college experience, and why college isn't always the ticket to getting a good job. Robert and Ben also discuss our society's backward prioritization of college athletics over college academics and whether there is a place for sports in a higher-education setting. Finally, Ben answers why NSA and other colleges are refusing to accept federal grants, his best advice for Classical Conversations® Challenge graduates, and what the most in-demand skill is for students entering the workforce.

Show notes: RefiningRhetoric.com/Ben-Merkle

You're invited to our 2024 National Events Weekend in sunny Southern Pines, North Carolina! Register at ClassicalConversationsFoundation.org.