Too Fat to Graduate
Tiana Y. Lawson
Issue date: 11/18/09 Section: Opinion
Who would've thought that the "misses" and "plus" signs that separates us in clothing stores would find its way on to Lincoln's campus?
Under Lincoln University rule, students who have a clinical body mass index over 30 are required to take a physical education class. While the requirement has been on the books for about 3 years, it seems as though Lincoln is more adamant about students taking the course this year.
As someone who has taken many years to accept the fact that I will never be a size two, I feel as though the administration is now telling me that not being a size two may hinder me from graduating from Lincoln.
I didn't come to Lincoln to be told that my weight is not in an acceptable range. I came here to get an education which, as a three time honor student, is something I have been doing quite well, despite the fact that I have a slightly high Body Mass Index.
After I expressed my distaste in being forced to enroll in this class, some friends of mine, who happen to be health science majors, immediately jumped on their department's bandwagon saying that the mission of the class is to "make everyone healthy."
That is where I don't agree. If that were the case, this would be a requirement for everyone.
I'm never going to be comfortable with this class, but I think I would more understanding if this was a requirement for everyone. While I don't think it was the university's intention to make us feel excluded, that is precisely what they have done.
So for now, I'm going to bite the bullet and take the class. Not because Lincoln is requiring me to, (I actually passed the test) but rather, because I would like to be healthier. This was a decision that I made… and that's the way it ought to be.
Under Lincoln University rule, students who have a clinical body mass index over 30 are required to take a physical education class. While the requirement has been on the books for about 3 years, it seems as though Lincoln is more adamant about students taking the course this year.
As someone who has taken many years to accept the fact that I will never be a size two, I feel as though the administration is now telling me that not being a size two may hinder me from graduating from Lincoln.
I didn't come to Lincoln to be told that my weight is not in an acceptable range. I came here to get an education which, as a three time honor student, is something I have been doing quite well, despite the fact that I have a slightly high Body Mass Index.
After I expressed my distaste in being forced to enroll in this class, some friends of mine, who happen to be health science majors, immediately jumped on their department's bandwagon saying that the mission of the class is to "make everyone healthy."
That is where I don't agree. If that were the case, this would be a requirement for everyone.
I'm never going to be comfortable with this class, but I think I would more understanding if this was a requirement for everyone. While I don't think it was the university's intention to make us feel excluded, that is precisely what they have done.
So for now, I'm going to bite the bullet and take the class. Not because Lincoln is requiring me to, (I actually passed the test) but rather, because I would like to be healthier. This was a decision that I made… and that's the way it ought to be.
Viewing Comments 1 - 10 of 60
Las Vegas Movers | Long distance moving Las Vegas
posted 11/18/09 @ 4:48 PM EST
Quote:
"'m never going to be comfortable with this class, but I think I would more understanding if this was a requirement for everyone. While I don't think it was the university's intention to make us feel excluded, that is precisely what they have done. (Continued…)
jim
posted 11/20/09 @ 9:57 AM EST
I feel empathy with Tiana Y. Lawson. I do feel that there is a problem with obseity in general in this country. The City of New York has enacted a requiremnet requiring restaurant chains to list the caloric content lf its food in an effirt ti educate the eating population. (Continued…)
ford
posted 11/23/09 @ 11:53 AM EST
You are FAT! Lose the weight and get on with your life.
BGUK
posted 11/23/09 @ 2:44 PM EST
If the University were being logical they'd also test enrolling students' stress levels, physical fitness levels, blood pressure, alcohol and cigarette intake: anything that endangers health as much or more so than obesity. (Continued…)
Dell Bryant
posted 11/23/09 @ 3:34 PM EST
This is outrageous and nothing more than discrimination which most legal minds know is a slippery slope. A good law suit is in order here with a steep payout or settlement. (Continued…)
Linda Moore
posted 11/30/09 @ 1:21 PM EST
I am wondering that since the faculty approved this requirement if they also approved such requirements for faculty tenure? After all, don't they get benefits being on staff? Isn't there a risk if the faculty are "obese" and being funded with health benefits? Shouldn't they be required as well? It's only fair. (Continued…)
Joe
posted 11/30/09 @ 2:21 PM EST
The only problem I see here is that Tiana's logic is completely flawed. This class, like all colleges classes, are required on an AS NEEDED basis. If a student has excellent writing skills, he/she doesn't NEED a basic grammar class. (Continued…)
carolyn
posted 11/30/09 @ 2:50 PM EST
Great...now a university is going to play God. Remember the students pay you. You are there to serve them, not dictate or judge.
winston
posted 11/30/09 @ 4:07 PM EST
All in all the point is that obesity is an issue and you are overweight to some degree. Take the free help and get it under control now before you have to get gastric bypass surgery in 5 years. (Continued…)
cdkat13
posted 11/30/09 @ 4:14 PM EST
I don't think the school's point is for everyone to be a size two. I think that is an impossible goal for most people.
I do believe that health is a part of your education. (Continued…)
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