I Just Wanna Be Average by Mike Rose, Article Review Example

Mike Rose explores the educational institution in his essay, ‘I Just Wanna Be Average.’ The author describes a character who has been placed in a special education program by accident. Although he begins as a smart individual ready to conquer the world, the protagonist soon adapts to his surroundings and learns at the pace of the rest of his class. When he is finally transferred to a regular program, the central character finds it difficult to thrive and longs to be on the same level as his “normal” peers.

While many themes are explored in this short text, the central theme seems to be that of settling in an institution that is damaged. Instead of continuing to thrive and, in so doing, bringing his classmates up to par, the main character allows himself to be brought down by the circumstances. No longer does he pursue excellence, but rather seeks what is average. To his demise, what is average in his special education program is well below average in the regular educational track. The central character, hence, finds himself left behind.

Among the numerous essays on education and its flaws, Mike Rose’s account is most convincing. From his character, the reader sees the effects of placing above average students with those who are not as advanced. I completely agree and support Rose’s stance of school as an institution being one that individuals must be determined to conquer.