In an age when equality among men and women is a continual concern, students were forewarned of issues that may arise as they venture into the working world.

“Baby – Have You Come a Long Way?” was the question posed to about 30 students Wednesday night as Dr. Lois Self, Director of Women’s Studies, shared her views on women and equity in the workplace.

“I am often struck by what the difference in age makes in the perception of how far women have come in culture,” said Self, who is also an associate professor of NIU’s communication studies program.

Self describes herself as a “woman in the middle” in terms of the question of whether or not women have come a long way.

Self said that younger women are optimistic about their future in the working world and their potential. She said that this generation of women is sometimes negative towards those that complain about sexism and inequality on the job. A reason for this, according to Self, may be that the younger generation are not experiencing the existing sexism.

Self said that the younger generation of women realizes that there are problems of equity, but are optimistic that these problems are on their way to being solved.

Another view concerning equity among men and women is the pessimistic outlook, usually shared by the older generation of women, said Self. Self said this generation does not see that equity has been fully achieved.

Self advised students to be aware of the inequality they may encounter concerning issues of equity and pay, equity in the workplace environment,and sexual harrassment.

“Things are getting better, but inequity is a subtle factor,” said Self.

The 30 minute presentation, sponsored by Women in Communications, Inc., was followed by a ten minute session of questions and comments.