What I've Learned

Now that the semester is over, it is time to reflect. What have I learned thus far? What are the most valuable aspects of college life? How have I changed as a human being? 

 

Quite the epic questions, eh? Here are a few things I have learned:

 

1. Dorm room odors are not pleasant, and are impossible to get rid of.

2. Caf food does not get better, you just grow numb to it.

3. Final exams are a lot of work, but it is so much easier if you keep up with the readings.

4. Washing clothes is not entirely necessary to have a social life. My mum has yet to be convinced.

5. Hammocks are beautiful things.

6. Facebook should be avoided at all costs.

 

That is what thousands upon thousands of dollars spent on a college education is teaching me. No, I am being silly, I have learned a lot, and my classes have been worthwhile for the most part. It took me a while to realize it, but finals week has really shown me how much information has been packed into my slightly above average-sized head. It's amazing how many pages I have read, and how many facts I have memorized in a few short months, and I am amazed to say I feel as though I know what I am talking about!

 

Now I am enjoying the much-anticipated holiday break, and everything that it involves. It's nice to be home, even though I am only two miles from my Luther residence. I am spending time with my family and old friends, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. I am afraid, however, that I may run out of things to do. I have already gone cross-country skiing, winter biking, been introduced to the world of video games, and eaten way too much. Life is good.

 

Well, I am off to have a boxing match with a couple of my mates; Jason, Daniel, and Paul, so I must go. Happy holiday season, everyone.

 

Peace,

Collin 

Snow is cold.

Hello one and all, this is an exciting day. I have only one remaining class and I am finished with the semester. Granted, I still have next week's finals, but the regular classroom sessions will be complete. And how grand that I get to go out with a bang, finishing it all off with a Paideia discussion about Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, followed by a quiz over the same material. How could I ever be so lucky.

 

All the loose ends are being tied up before everyone takes off for break. I am really looking forward to having some time off. I do feel, however, that it will be a lot different when I get back. This could be because I will have a different schedule, but there is also the fact that many students will be traveling abroad or elsewhere off campus for J-Term, meaning it may be a little less lively around here. Two of my good friends are having adventures during the month of January, one is going to France and the other to my adopted homeland of New Zealand. Both trips are going to be amazing, and I wish them the best of luck with all their travels. I also look forward to the study abroad opportunities in which I will have to take part later in my college experience.

 

Another strange sensation will be the lack of  responsibility for a couple weeks. I have grown used to the never-ending deadlines and assignments, so it will be very, I repeat, very nice, but a little awkward to fill my time with other things. I look forward to seeing my family and long-lost Decorah natives returning back from their own universities or other callings. It will be just like the good ol' days.

 

I would like to wish all of you out there in cyberspace an enjoyable holiday season, whatever holiday you are celebrating. And for those of you who are not celebrating any holidays, have a wonderful winter season. If I get the chance, I may drop a few lines over break, but if not, I will see you in January of 2008.

 

Peace,

Collin