There may finally be a way to show how much time and effort you put into your classes, without coming off as a braggart to your interviewers.
Starting in fall 2014, all transcripts issued by the University will come with not only the requisite grade received, but a little extra.
The new format for transcripts will detail the grade distribution for each class, showing how well — or not so well — the individual did in comparison to the other students in the sections.
The contextualized transcripts can help make up for any classroom discrepancies. Inequalities in grading by multiple teaching assistants in a class can be eliminated.
The new context on the transcript is also a boon to students who have gone the extra mile at UNC. Being able to tangibly prove that you not only did well, but also finished at the top of your class, is always a benefit to employment seekers.
In the same vein, the grade distribution shown in the contextual transcripts will prove just how hard some classes truly were, rather than having some classes look like a black mark on your record.
However, the new format of the transcripts may scare students away from taking classes outside of their major. Some may fear underperforming in classes outside their realm of expertise. The University should take care of its students, ensuring that they feel safe enough to step out of their comfort zones, despite these new transcripts.
The University has been contemplating adding the context to transcripts for a while.
Now is the time to put forth a measure that will not only push students to work harder, but give them a boost as they move into new stages of their lives.
