Meet Kim, a 21-Year-Old Computer Engineering Student at Seoul National University: Discover Her Struggles and Aspirations in Tech!

Recent findings from Seoul National University show a shocking disparity in the distribution of grades among 103 majors. The A+ ratio in some fields is ten times higher than in others. For instance, Western history boasts a staggering A+ rate of 57.1%, while veterinary and pharmaceutical departments barely scrape into the single digits. This imbalance raises questions about fairness in education.

Take Kim, a computer engineering student, who’s feeling the weight of these grade disparities. He believes the standards in his field are excessively strict. “It feels unfair,” he says, explaining how his grades affected his chances to secure a spot in the university’s dorms and impacted his dream of attending law school.

Overall, students in humanities and arts seem to have an easier path to high grades. According to the analysis published on the university’s information site “University Alert,” the average grades for fields like education and humanities are notably higher compared to those in engineering or the sciences. Only one major, within the entire pharmaceutical department, adhered to the university’s recommended grading guidelines, which suggest that A grades should account for just 20-30% of the total grades.

This lack of standardization in grading is largely due to individual instructors having the autonomy to set their criteria. An official from Seoul National University explained that the unique characteristics of each department play a significant role in grade determination. However, this flexibility has led to a growing concern among students that those in more challenging majors are being systematically disadvantaged.

Another student, Lee, echoed this frustration. “Efforts to excel often don’t translate into better grades,” he stated. This sentiment is common among students vying for competitive law schools, where GPA plays a vital role. Jeong, preparing for law school, raised an important point: “The law school evaluation only looks at GPA. It feels unfair that our hard work doesn’t get the recognition it deserves because of unjust grading practices.”

To navigate this complex system, students are adapting by choosing easier courses, even if they aren’t aligned with their career goals. Choi, an economics major, revealed a common strategy: “I pick classes mainly from the humanities for easier credits.” This shift highlights a growing trend where students prioritize grades over genuine interest in their studies.

Interestingly, the current situation reflects a broader societal issue—grade inflation and the pressure placed on students. A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that grade inflation is prevalent across many institutions, leading to concerns about the real value of educational achievements. Balancing the need for rigorous academic standards with student wellness is a challenge educators face today.

As the debate continues, it’s clear that equitable grading practices are essential. Students like Kim, Lee, and Jeong deserve a system that recognizes their true academic efforts, regardless of their major. The conversation around grades isn’t just about numbers; it’s about fairness and the future for students at Seoul National University and beyond.

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