Vermont Campus cat honored with a degree, but what about the deserving humans?
In a surprising turn of events, the Vermont State University Castleton Campus has awarded an honorary degree to a feline. The local cat, who is known for his love of literature, has been declared the school’s first-ever “Doctor of Litter-ature.”
This unexpected honor has left many students and faculty members scratching their heads. While no one is denying that the cat is a beloved figure around campus, some are wondering why a four-legged creature is receiving a degree before hardworking humans.
“I’ve been studying at this school for four years and never once received a fancy piece of paper,” grumbled senior Sarah Williams. “But I guess if you’re a cat, all you need is a cute face and a way with words.”
Indeed, the campus cat is well-known for his literary leanings. He can often be found lounging in the school library, surrounded by piles of books. According to campus officials, the cat has even helped inspire several students to pursue careers in writing and publishing.
While there’s no denying the cat’s influence on campus culture, some have pointed out that the whole idea of awarding an honorary degree to an animal seems a bit ridiculous. After all, what kind of job prospects does a “Doctor of Litter-ature” degree really offer?
“Are we seriously going to have to start competing with cats for jobs now?” asked frustrated sophomore Mike Johnson. “What’s next, a dog with a Ph.D. in astrophysics?”
Despite the detractors, the cast-iron degree has been conferred, and the campus cat has officially been dubbed a “Doctor” in the eyes of the university. In a statement, school officials noted that the degree was “a very special honorary degree, reserved for those who have made a significant contribution to the world of literature.”
The decision to award the degree has reignited the ongoing debate over whether or not honorary degrees are worth the paper they’re printed on. Critics argue that these types of degrees are merely publicity stunts, while others insist that they honor truly deserving individuals.
No matter which side you fall on, it’s clear that the Vermont State University Castleton Campus cat has become something of a celebrity. Reporters from around the country have flocked to the school to interview the now-famous feline and his adoring fans.
Only time will tell if this unusual honor will lead to more opportunities for the cat, or if it will simply add to his already impressive list of achievements: napping, purring, and inspiring literary-minded students. For the rest of us, we’ll just have to keep working hard and hoping that our own contributions to society will one day be recognized with a fancy degree – even if we happen to have two legs instead of four.
