"セックスしたいなら大学に行け。教育を受けたいなら図書館に行け。"

The heart of this quote is about distinguishing between the social experiences and academics when considering going to college. It’s suggesting that if your goal is to indulge in a socially vibrant and possibly hedonistic lifestyle, then college is your place. But if you’re in search of pure, unadulterated knowledge and intellectual growth, you might find the library a more fitting venue.

This quote was said by Frank Zappa, a musician known for his often provocative and thought-provoking statements. He said this during a time when higher education was becoming more accessible, but also more commercialized. The 1960s and 70s saw the expansion of higher education, but also its transformation into a space where social experiences and networking were becoming just as important as learning.

To illustrate this practically, think about a college freshman, let’s call her Sarah. Sarah is bright-eyed and eager to start her journey at university. She’s excited for the parties, the new friends, and the independence that comes with living away from home. The social scene is buzzing with activities, and she finds herself caught up in the whirlwind of campus life. She’s meeting people, attending events, and yes, occasionally missing a class or two. She’s getting the full “college experience.”

But then there’s John, a self-taught coding wizard. John never went to college. Instead, he spent countless hours at the public library, immersing himself in books, online courses, and coding tutorials. He didn’t have the same social experiences or networking opportunities as Sarah, but he gained a deep, focused education in his field. John’s path was less about the social journey and more about the concentrated pursuit of knowledge.

So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re someone who thrives on social interactions and the full-bodied experience of campus life, college might be your playground. But if your goal is to dive deep into learning, master a subject, or even just enjoy the tranquility of self-guided study, the library can be your sanctuary.

Imagine yourself in a scenario where you have a huge exam coming up. Your friends are all going out to a big party, but you know you need to study. This is a crossroads moment. Do you prioritize the social experience or the academic one? Choosing to stay in and hit the books, maybe heading to the library, is a small-scale application of this wisdom. It’s about making choices that align with your true goals.

Think about this next time you’re torn between going out and staying in to study. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ever have fun or socialize—balance is important. But remember that when it comes to pure education, the library (or any other quiet study space) is where the magic happens.

So, next time there’s a decision between hitting the books or hitting the town, reflect on what you truly want. Your goals will thank you for it. And hey, you can always balance both, but knowing the right place for the right purpose is half the battle won.