The Uniform Wars

Uniforms-something we have been familiarized so badly, for most us have definitely wore them for a certain period of time. I was recently assigned to perform a survey on this, and when I pose the following question (like I did in class), I'm bound to see some changes in your face. So, "Should UC (University College) Students Wear Uniforms?" rofl.

This topic has always been an on and off hot debate, and just like the all-so-Beautiful and Famous football game between Princeton & Dartmouth there isn't a black and white answer, and the result entirely depends own our own personal beliefs. Of course, being bias is out of the question. x)

While this debate holds rationality and be it a rhetorical question, I must say, 'wouldn't the implementation of this rule be contradicting to the long-lived culture and tradition of UC students?' And as I recall, since when did UC students ever had to wear uniforms anyway.

But well, if school uniforms were all like something like this.
Ohhh, that wouldn't be too bad right. xD
Okay, I'm swaying off on topic now, back on track. x)

While the idea may seem totally absurd, it does hold some good points too. It may be just a little below the eye level, but these pros may play a pretty helpful role if applied.

Pros

Prevents outbreaks and preserves Unity

• Since our garments show what sort of person we are, Having a uniform stops gang members from displaying their colors and garb. In a way it helps prevent violence and instill a sense of pride and professionalism amongst students. I personally think it plays a part too in breaking down the barriers between different socioeconomic groups, but it is only to a certain extend though. Since students have an equal outlook with uniforms, it indirectly unifies them, forming an organized community; kicking in a sense of harmony.

Cons

Inhibits a student's individuality.

• Through the clothing we wear, we are able to express our feelings, and uniforms will only take away this form of expression. How could students have that expression when everyone is looking all same and plain jane?

Inhibits a student's freedom of choice

• We students are taught in school about freedom; freedom of speech, expression and choice. But when the student board make students wear uniforms, it not only goes against these principles, but also deprives student's freedom.

Cost Issue

• UC students have much to pay for-their literature, food and transportation. Not to mention school and tuition fees. And now uniforms as well? Uniforms can be pretty costly, and sometimes these can mean a lot to some. Families would have to cough out a bigger budget if uniforms are required.

Uneasy peasy
Uniforms are usually uncomfortable, and we all know that wearing casual sounds more pleasing it that term. This was indeed true. While evaluating my survey, I was confronted by an 11 year old boy. Unsurprised, his reply was "Hot and uncomfortable". Lacking comfort brings lack of concentration, and yeah, I can totally relate to that.


I believe that uniforms aren't exactly required. Though indeed it has its benefits, but it can all be attain with other alternatives.

While still on this line of thought, answer some of my survey questions personally:

Would you like working or studying in an environment where uniforms are required?
Would having to wear a uniform everyday be boring?
Would wearing a uniform prevent self-expression and inhibits a student's freedom of choice?
Does wearing casual wear give a better appeal to a person?
Do you like being different?
Do you find uniforms appealing?
Do you think uniforms helps stop violence and helps instill a sense of pride in the students?


Besides, wouldn't prioritizing more better quality teaching rather than quality wearing be better? lol. Such a rule should never be raised in a classroom, unless you'd enjoy hell in the making. :)