Part 1 (1-8) The writer describes his encounter with one of his students. He tried but failed to convince him that a pharmacy major needs to read great writers.

Part 2(9-14)The writer restates 14 years later, what he believes to be the purpose of a university: Putting its students in touch with the best civilizations the human race has created.

Structure Analysis

      How does the writer present his argument?

Introduction:  He introduces the topic with his encounter with a student and with two questions: Why should we go to university? Whyshould we learn literature, arts, philosophy, politics, etc.?

Then he proceeds to give evidence to support his view: Evidence A: distinction between technical training and university

Evidence B: How to spend the 8 hours of leisure time will decide whether you are capable of penetrating insight,whether you can be democratic, tasteful and above all,whether you can raise a civilized family.

Answer/topic sentence: ... the business of the college is to put you in touch with what the best human minds have thought.