All true. My dad grew up not far from there in the depression years, then WWII happened, but had things worked differently, this might have been an option for him. I know he’s always spoke highly of the school, as it was the only way “poor kids” could think of getting to college. I visited there with him back in the 90s and was very impressed with the positive, friendly, and mature attitude of the kids there. I was pleased when Newt mentioned it, because I’m a big champion of vocational education, community colleges, and work-study.
I think the riot reaction by Penn State students is an example of what happens when the little darlings are sent off to State U for four or five years of high-priced binge drinking and indoctrination in the liberal arts.
You are exactly right. The work opportunities there are high tech too, not just ‘laundry and restaurant’. Additionally they have agricultural, manufacturing, management, sales, advertising and administrative jobs. It is quite well-rounded. And not all students are ‘poor’, but they are all smarter than the average bear to take advantage of the opportunity. The college has an excellent academic rating. It also promotes Christian values, good work ethic, patriotism, good citizenship as well as academic achievement. As you might imagine, Gov Palin is quite impressed with it.