In "College Pressures," William Zinsser discusses the various types of pressures that college students face today. He argues that these pressures can be divided into four main categories: economic, parental, societal, and personal.
The first type of pressure that Zinsser discusses is economic pressure. Many college students today feel the need to choose a major that will lead to a high-paying job, rather than one that they are truly passionate about. This pressure can be intense, as students may feel that they are not only choosing a career, but also their future financial stability.
The second type of pressure that Zinsser discusses is parental pressure. Many parents want their children to succeed in college and go on to have successful careers, and may push their children to excel academically and choose a practical major. This pressure can be particularly intense for first-generation college students, who may feel a sense of responsibility to their families to achieve success.
The third type of pressure that Zinsser discusses is societal pressure. College students today may feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, such as getting good grades, participating in extracurricular activities, and networking with classmates and professors. This pressure can be intense, as students may feel that they need to constantly prove themselves in order to be successful.
The fourth type of pressure that Zinsser discusses is personal pressure. Many college students may feel pressure to succeed for their own personal reasons, such as a desire to live up to their own expectations or to prove themselves to others. This pressure can be intense, as students may feel that their entire future depends on their performance in college.
Overall, Zinsser argues that these various types of pressures can be overwhelming for college students, and can lead to anxiety, stress, and a sense of inadequacy. He suggests that students should try to focus on their own passions and goals, rather than external pressures, in order to truly succeed in college.