The Plight of the Student

It's that time of the semester already. I am getting bogged down with studies for upcoming exams. I have a botany exam tomorrow, followed by a chemistry exam on Wednesday. In addition to that, I have had the never-ending load of readings, lab reports, and other homework. It is nothing unexpected, but it is also nothing to be grateful for.

 

This kind of perplexes me when I think about it. Why is it that we, as voluntary students, decide to complain about the workload that accompanies the role of student? I decided to come to Luther College to pursue a degree in biology. How could I possibly complain in any way about having to do work to expand my mind in ways that I desire, or to obtain fascinating nuggets of knowledge in my field of study. It seems almost exactly opposite of what I should be doing; that is, thanking professors, faculty, staff, my parents, and whomever else made this opportunity possible for me. I understand this all in theory, but it is a bit more difficult to rationalize all this when I must sit in my room studying photosynthesis until wee hours of the morning. Oh well, it will undoubtedly benefit me in the end.

 

So that is where we are at currently at Luther College; the first wave of exams and due dates. It is the authentic initiation back into "real life" on campus after the lull of J-term. I must admit, I am still in that mode a little, so I am struggling to make this new schedule and set of commitments work. However, I feel as though I am having an easier time understanding and engaging in the material which I am studying. It may be because of the set of classes I am taking, or it may be because it is still early in the semester. Either way, I hope to maintain this momentum for the rest of the year.

 

I hope I find you all in good health and spirits. Enjoy the coming of spring, even during those moments when it is still very wintery. 

 

Peace,

Collin