Monday, February 23, 2009
Concluding thoughts about my general research
From my anthropological research, I have concluded that students find the easy routes to get their work done: they study in such a way that will benefit them the most, they have easier work cut out for them than the work issued international student's from their own educational system, they have easy access to helpful resources that they often times do not know of or do not access, and they often do not give enough respect to their professors. As for professors, they cut students slack because of the educational system that the U.S. has, they do not receive enough recognition from students, and they see students as "short-cut" takers that mostly care about their social life and not their academic life. These conclusions are from the information that I have discovered through the ethnography research.
Hold the phone!!
When asked if there were changes in student behaviors throughout their years as educators, both professors reported the main difference. Student's dependency of technology during class was much different than the beginning few years of my 2 elder professor's careers. The use of cell phones for texting, the ipods, the laptops used for facebook during lecture via wi-fi are a very large and noticeable change thanks to the improvement of technological devices and the youth's need for staying connected to their friends. Another commonality in their views of student's behaviors was the "rudeness" that they showed towards the professors, as students pack their things early with a few minutes left of class and some students even leave without being dismissed. This is definitely a change from teaching 15 or more years ago.
Talking with 5 strangers
I went up to 5 random people and of those 5, 4 lived on campus and 1 lived off-campus. Of those 5 "strangers," 2 of the 4 who live in the dorms study in their rooms while the other 2 find it more effective to study in the library. The off-campus student studies both on campus at the library and at home as they do not go home until their classes are finished for the day. As for study habits, they all agreed that their study habits have changed from high school, and of those 5 students 2 listen to music to get the most from the material. The other 3 need silence to understand the material thoroughly. Also 1 of the students said that when they read they like to say the material aloud to read, hear, and interpret the material. "It helps a lot," she reported.
An international view of things
Since I couldn't ask an international student from our class this question, I was not able to ask my two friends Celia or Linda, but I knew one other exchange student personally. I asked Camille Gerstenhaber what the one major difference between her country's education system and her new education here at UWEC was. She said that "In high school in France we have to choose a specialty (either science, economics or literature) and at the end of our senior year we have a huge exam called the BAC. If we fail it we don't graduate so then we have to repeat our senior year. The difference is that in France schooling is very serious with consequences. It is more casual here." (This picture was taken at the David Cook concert, left to right: Camille, me, Celia)
Art around campus
The piece that first caught my eye came into view during my campus tour months ago. This sculpture is located near campus mall and the footbridge. It is up for interpretation as it is artwork, and I saw it as two people dancing or cooperating. The piece then (keeping my interpretation in mind) fits well on campus because it shows students working together in class, in social networks, and in education. The piece gives a sense of happiness that links the social campus mall with the fine arts center across the footbridge. It links the campus in a way.
A "Blugold" is...
I searched this on the UWEC website for quite some time, then finally found some information about the mascot and history of students trying to create an official mascot for the university. Here at UWEC we are known as the "Blugolds" and many of my friends from other colleges ask me what that term means. I always just tell them that a Blugold is our mascot and that blue and gold were our school colors. In reality these are both somewhat true, however we do not have an official mascot (the students have been trying to create an official one) and that the term reflects our attitude academically and spiritually for our university.
What is a microfiche ?
Microfiche is a card of microfilm that holds a number of pages of information on a reduced form, that when inserted into a microfiche reader, a person is able to see the enlarged and readable information. One of these can be located on 2nd floor of McIntyre library, near the stairway, at UWEC along with the newspaper collection.
Locating a newspaper
Many current students here at UWEC do not know that there is quick and easy access to national newspapers right in the McIntyre library! When I entered the library today I looked at the floor directory to find where the newspapers were located. I found out that they live in 2nd floor along with the microfiches. Locating the newspapers was very easy, however taking a picture with one amidst an audience was difficult and slightly embarassing. Within the Wall Street Journal I found a headline that grabbed my attention: Obama Pushes Firmer Budget Rules. The article is about our president telling Americans of his seriousness about the budget deficit, his plans to enforce spending cuts, and his ideas involving no tax cuts. He would like to see the deficit be cut in half by 2013, however many see this as a big feat.
Essay #1 - Deciding what is right for you
Many future and current college students inquire as to whether a liberal education is worth the money, time, and hard work to pursue. As I am a current student at the University, I often debate whether this pursuit is worth it or if an alternative route would yield greater benefits. After viewing “Freshman Provocation 2008,” conducting a personal interview with a professor, and reading various essays, I chose my side of the debate. I believe that a liberal education is worth it because the variety of subject matter that students get exposed to strengthens fundamental skills and community and it promotes life-long learning.
Humanities credits such as fine arts courses may be taken by students even if the credits are not going towards a minor or major of study, defining the credits as electives, therefore the social atmosphere can cause a sense of community from being involved. When interviewed, Robert Mondlock, my professor and director of Women's Chorus at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, was asked what strategy he uses to keep students involved and engaged in class. His response was “I like to use different props within the classroom (such as the large beach ball named Myrtle) to represent important skills needed by musicians and to form a community within the class, to bring the students together socially and academically.” The objective of “Myrtle” is that students must keep the ball from touching the floor during the game. Each student works independently to pass the ball up with their hands, however teamwork, communication, focus, and fun are needed for the group to keep the ball in the air. This exercise is not all about keeping a beach ball from touching the floor, but rather a representation of how the choir needs community to be successful. If each student only performed independently, the performance would be a failure. Success is only achieved in a choral group by the cooperation and synced communication by all of its members. As for Mondlock, the reward achieved from teaching these skills through music is “knowing that I have affected the lives of others in positive ways.” His reward is in turn what the students achieve. Those in fine arts courses strive to affect their audience in a positive way and to take pleasure in being a success within their performing group; a community bound by similar motives to pursue higher knowledge through a liberal education.
Students learn more than just how to sing a chromatic scale or the solfege letters from fine arts courses, as music is a pleasurable and social atmosphere. According to Dr. William Cronan, a professor at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, “every one of the qualities I have described here – listening, reading, talking, writing, puzzle solving, truth seeking, seeing through other people's eyes, leading, working in a community – is finally about gaining the power and the wisdom, the generosity and the freedom to connect.”(3). Music goes hand-in-hand with these skills obtained. Students will need to know how to communicate well with others (both listening and “thinking on one's feet”) for their future career and throughout the life in the “real world.” For example, communication within a choir occurs when listening for tuning, listening for the appropriate time to breathe, and watching the director to know how long to hold a note. Listening to and watching each other, fixing problems on the spot, and working together as a group not only make a choral piece a success, but these skills also learned through a liberal education make life a success.
Learning and strengthening skills do not end after college. Personal education is life-long and liberal education promotes this life-long learning. The electives taken during the 4 years at a University expose students to an array of subjects outside of their major of study. Supporting the importance of a liberal education, Dr. Martin Wood, Interim Provost and English professor at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, stated that “one thing that I love about humans is we dare to exceed our grasp. And I think that's motivated by hope. But we also want to build a wall between ourselves and danger. And that of course, that is motivated by fear. When you hear me talk about hope and fear it would be real easy to think that I mean hope is always good and fear is always bad because I'm kind of crazy about hope. But we can't do without either one. All planning, all forward thinking, all preparations, all commitments, are essentially human activities that value hope a little bit above fear. Without hope you get stagnation and decline, you get no creativity. Without fear you get recklessness and danger.” This dare to exceed our grasp represents the hunger for life-long learning and personal education beginning with a liberal education. Hope for a better future, a better career, and a better understanding of things come from a 4-year University. Fear then is the thing that drives us towards hope and away from future turmoil. If a person doesn't work or receive a higher education, they will not have income and they will struggle to survive. This is a fear that people try to avoid by hope and motivation to better themselves. Money drives people to an extent, but there are still those who have more than just that salaried motivation. People who pursue a liberal education hope for the better things in life, and these hopes lead to becoming a life-long learner. Those who do not pursue a liberal education also have hopes, but they also have fears that motivate them for a better life. What these people lack is the strong skills and hunger for learning that liberally educated people have. What drives all people then is hope and fear toward and away from situations in life and all must decide their own routes through life, and I have decided the beginning of my route starts with the 4 years following my high school education at a liberal arts college.
Liberal education is worth pursuing because elective coursework promotes skill-building, community, and self-education for life. Those that choose an alternative route may be basing their decision upon their motives, such as whether or not they care to receive higher education beyond job training, but they are also missing out on what is obtained by students who do choose a liberal education. The subject is still debatable and completely opinion-based, but all can agree that within everyone there is that desire to “dare to exceed ones grasp.” It can be something as simple as wanting a better salary or a better car. It is hope that drives our actions and fear that inhibits them, and both act as a guide through life's path.
Works Cited
Cronon, William. “Only Connect: the Goals of a Liberal Education.” The Key Reporter (1998):
2-4.Mondlock, Robert. Personal interview. 16 Feb. 2009.
Wood, Martin. “Freshman Provocation.” University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Zorn Arena, Eau Claire. 16 Sept. 2008.
Humanities credits such as fine arts courses may be taken by students even if the credits are not going towards a minor or major of study, defining the credits as electives, therefore the social atmosphere can cause a sense of community from being involved. When interviewed, Robert Mondlock, my professor and director of Women's Chorus at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, was asked what strategy he uses to keep students involved and engaged in class. His response was “I like to use different props within the classroom (such as the large beach ball named Myrtle) to represent important skills needed by musicians and to form a community within the class, to bring the students together socially and academically.” The objective of “Myrtle” is that students must keep the ball from touching the floor during the game. Each student works independently to pass the ball up with their hands, however teamwork, communication, focus, and fun are needed for the group to keep the ball in the air. This exercise is not all about keeping a beach ball from touching the floor, but rather a representation of how the choir needs community to be successful. If each student only performed independently, the performance would be a failure. Success is only achieved in a choral group by the cooperation and synced communication by all of its members. As for Mondlock, the reward achieved from teaching these skills through music is “knowing that I have affected the lives of others in positive ways.” His reward is in turn what the students achieve. Those in fine arts courses strive to affect their audience in a positive way and to take pleasure in being a success within their performing group; a community bound by similar motives to pursue higher knowledge through a liberal education.
Students learn more than just how to sing a chromatic scale or the solfege letters from fine arts courses, as music is a pleasurable and social atmosphere. According to Dr. William Cronan, a professor at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, “every one of the qualities I have described here – listening, reading, talking, writing, puzzle solving, truth seeking, seeing through other people's eyes, leading, working in a community – is finally about gaining the power and the wisdom, the generosity and the freedom to connect.”(3). Music goes hand-in-hand with these skills obtained. Students will need to know how to communicate well with others (both listening and “thinking on one's feet”) for their future career and throughout the life in the “real world.” For example, communication within a choir occurs when listening for tuning, listening for the appropriate time to breathe, and watching the director to know how long to hold a note. Listening to and watching each other, fixing problems on the spot, and working together as a group not only make a choral piece a success, but these skills also learned through a liberal education make life a success.
Learning and strengthening skills do not end after college. Personal education is life-long and liberal education promotes this life-long learning. The electives taken during the 4 years at a University expose students to an array of subjects outside of their major of study. Supporting the importance of a liberal education, Dr. Martin Wood, Interim Provost and English professor at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, stated that “one thing that I love about humans is we dare to exceed our grasp. And I think that's motivated by hope. But we also want to build a wall between ourselves and danger. And that of course, that is motivated by fear. When you hear me talk about hope and fear it would be real easy to think that I mean hope is always good and fear is always bad because I'm kind of crazy about hope. But we can't do without either one. All planning, all forward thinking, all preparations, all commitments, are essentially human activities that value hope a little bit above fear. Without hope you get stagnation and decline, you get no creativity. Without fear you get recklessness and danger.” This dare to exceed our grasp represents the hunger for life-long learning and personal education beginning with a liberal education. Hope for a better future, a better career, and a better understanding of things come from a 4-year University. Fear then is the thing that drives us towards hope and away from future turmoil. If a person doesn't work or receive a higher education, they will not have income and they will struggle to survive. This is a fear that people try to avoid by hope and motivation to better themselves. Money drives people to an extent, but there are still those who have more than just that salaried motivation. People who pursue a liberal education hope for the better things in life, and these hopes lead to becoming a life-long learner. Those who do not pursue a liberal education also have hopes, but they also have fears that motivate them for a better life. What these people lack is the strong skills and hunger for learning that liberally educated people have. What drives all people then is hope and fear toward and away from situations in life and all must decide their own routes through life, and I have decided the beginning of my route starts with the 4 years following my high school education at a liberal arts college.
Liberal education is worth pursuing because elective coursework promotes skill-building, community, and self-education for life. Those that choose an alternative route may be basing their decision upon their motives, such as whether or not they care to receive higher education beyond job training, but they are also missing out on what is obtained by students who do choose a liberal education. The subject is still debatable and completely opinion-based, but all can agree that within everyone there is that desire to “dare to exceed ones grasp.” It can be something as simple as wanting a better salary or a better car. It is hope that drives our actions and fear that inhibits them, and both act as a guide through life's path.
Works Cited
Cronon, William. “Only Connect: the Goals of a Liberal Education.” The Key Reporter (1998):
2-4.Mondlock, Robert. Personal interview. 16 Feb. 2009.
Wood, Martin. “Freshman Provocation.” University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Zorn Arena, Eau Claire. 16 Sept. 2008.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Library Tour
The McIntyre library provides many resources for college students here at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Located on lower campus, the library is a center to escape the habits of “dorm studying” and can give a student a place to receive access to quiet studying and helpful resources. Prior to the library tour that I took part in, I had only been inside the library twice for group meetings. I know now that the library should be accessed by more students because it provides several useful services.
Among the useful services, there is a checkout center for the rental of electronic devices, several computer labs distributed on the different library levels, TV's, reserved and non-reserved study areas, and of course the checkout of texts including: journals, periodicals, books, special collections, and DVD's. To my surprise the services listed are not used by the majority of the student population. A larger awareness is needed for better use of this building as it is very useful and free towards one's higher education.
At the beginning of the library tour, the group of students and I followed the guide and brought to attention of what was located within each level as we made our way from location to location. The lower level contains a map collection and instructional media center, 1st floor has (the very useful) reference desk, equipment checkout and materials circulation, 2nd floor has a periodical and microfiche collection, 3rd and 4th floor has general collections and group study areas, and 5th floor has special and general collections. It was apparent that each floor higher has a quieter atmosphere and computers on every floor. I did not know how much of a blessing the library really is for a quiet place to study and/or sleep. So the next time that I need to catch up on my studies or study for finals, I will more than likely take the elevator to 5th floor for some quiet getaway.
Another future use for the library for me will be researching. The computer lab and access to important texts will aid in the research I am conducting. Either I could look up on the library's website the location of a certain text needed to write the essay or ask for the location of the specific text from the guide at the reference desk. The library aids in easy access and location to find any text needed for any type of project or essay.
The location and readily accessible resources make the library an effective academic institution. Its floor layout is one thing that makes it both effective and unique. I thought it was brilliant to have the more public centers such as the reference desk and the equipment checkout center on the 1st floor for easy access. Another thing that made the layout unique was that the quiet areas were the upper floors where many people don't go to because it is out of the main flow of “traffic.”
Overall, the McIntyre library has an important purpose, an effective access to resources, and a great location to the academic resources. The tour cleared up the confusion and alienation I felt towards the institution, so I do not have any questions about the resource center. If a question were to ever arise, there is the reference desk to give quick answers to the problem. The library is underused by students which is a shame as it is such a great resource for group meetings, studying, researching, and renting useful technology.
Among the useful services, there is a checkout center for the rental of electronic devices, several computer labs distributed on the different library levels, TV's, reserved and non-reserved study areas, and of course the checkout of texts including: journals, periodicals, books, special collections, and DVD's. To my surprise the services listed are not used by the majority of the student population. A larger awareness is needed for better use of this building as it is very useful and free towards one's higher education.
At the beginning of the library tour, the group of students and I followed the guide and brought to attention of what was located within each level as we made our way from location to location. The lower level contains a map collection and instructional media center, 1st floor has (the very useful) reference desk, equipment checkout and materials circulation, 2nd floor has a periodical and microfiche collection, 3rd and 4th floor has general collections and group study areas, and 5th floor has special and general collections. It was apparent that each floor higher has a quieter atmosphere and computers on every floor. I did not know how much of a blessing the library really is for a quiet place to study and/or sleep. So the next time that I need to catch up on my studies or study for finals, I will more than likely take the elevator to 5th floor for some quiet getaway.
Another future use for the library for me will be researching. The computer lab and access to important texts will aid in the research I am conducting. Either I could look up on the library's website the location of a certain text needed to write the essay or ask for the location of the specific text from the guide at the reference desk. The library aids in easy access and location to find any text needed for any type of project or essay.
The location and readily accessible resources make the library an effective academic institution. Its floor layout is one thing that makes it both effective and unique. I thought it was brilliant to have the more public centers such as the reference desk and the equipment checkout center on the 1st floor for easy access. Another thing that made the layout unique was that the quiet areas were the upper floors where many people don't go to because it is out of the main flow of “traffic.”
Overall, the McIntyre library has an important purpose, an effective access to resources, and a great location to the academic resources. The tour cleared up the confusion and alienation I felt towards the institution, so I do not have any questions about the resource center. If a question were to ever arise, there is the reference desk to give quick answers to the problem. The library is underused by students which is a shame as it is such a great resource for group meetings, studying, researching, and renting useful technology.
Mini-essay #3 - Illustration
DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY IT'S COVER
For some, appearances are everything, they determine how they are judged and who they are. For others, appearances have little to do with their character or their lifestyle. I disagree with the saying “clothes make the person” as I do not take my wardrobe to an extreme with all brand-named clothing and I tend to not to care whether or not whatever I put on matches or not. Another reason that I disagree with the statement is that I do not judge based on appearances, I give people a fair chance to befriend me. The example I will use is a girl who went to my high school that came from a poor family that couldn't afford the latest fashion trends, but she is a very nice person that I became good friends with. Another example I will use is a girl who had all of the latest fashions and came from a wealthy family.
Her whole life was a financial struggle, as her parents struggled from job to job and paycheck to paycheck. My friend had the desire to own more fashionable pieces in her wardrobe though she could not afford them and her family most definitely could not. She often wore sweatpants, old t-shirts, and ruddy sneakers, daily it seemed. This turned some people away from her in our high school, although it was not like she didn't have good hygiene habits or that she was a mean person. I found that she was a very nice person with the same issues, and she grew up with our graduating class since kindergarten. Therefore there was much to relate to and much to talk about with her. I was the person in our grade to be able to get along with many of the different groups in our high school. I wasn't assigned to a clique and I see people for who they really are, giving people a chance to make up for the so called “stereotype” placed among the student population by the popular clique. From the popular clique comes my next example, as her wardrobe does not make her a good person (she is not nice at all in fact), and she only has her clothing and appearance as a social staple to “friends.”
Her whole life was a financial “carpet ride” where her parents were successful, her dad was a local lawyer, and they vacationed 3 times per year. Every item of clothing that she owned was name-brand and every friend that she had mirrored this similar aspect of fashion. Money never was an issue, her parents paid her way for everything, and the friends she acquired based their views of her through her financial stability and appearance. She looked the part of a “happy, successful, nice” person, however the inside was not pretty. The way she judges others and treats others is inhumane. The way she glares at those less fortunate. The way that she believes she deserves more than others because of her materialistic objects makes her an ugly person. These 2 examples are complete opposite examples from within my high school population, however they both represent how “clothes don't make the person.” It is what is inside that makes the person, their character should be judged and not their appearances should not.
I disagree with the saying “clothes make the person” based upon my past experiences, as everybody comes from different backgrounds and situations, there should be no judgment besides that of one's character. “Don't judge a book by its cover” is a popular expression complimenting my views towards this subject. People deserve more than just one passing glance.
For some, appearances are everything, they determine how they are judged and who they are. For others, appearances have little to do with their character or their lifestyle. I disagree with the saying “clothes make the person” as I do not take my wardrobe to an extreme with all brand-named clothing and I tend to not to care whether or not whatever I put on matches or not. Another reason that I disagree with the statement is that I do not judge based on appearances, I give people a fair chance to befriend me. The example I will use is a girl who went to my high school that came from a poor family that couldn't afford the latest fashion trends, but she is a very nice person that I became good friends with. Another example I will use is a girl who had all of the latest fashions and came from a wealthy family.
Her whole life was a financial struggle, as her parents struggled from job to job and paycheck to paycheck. My friend had the desire to own more fashionable pieces in her wardrobe though she could not afford them and her family most definitely could not. She often wore sweatpants, old t-shirts, and ruddy sneakers, daily it seemed. This turned some people away from her in our high school, although it was not like she didn't have good hygiene habits or that she was a mean person. I found that she was a very nice person with the same issues, and she grew up with our graduating class since kindergarten. Therefore there was much to relate to and much to talk about with her. I was the person in our grade to be able to get along with many of the different groups in our high school. I wasn't assigned to a clique and I see people for who they really are, giving people a chance to make up for the so called “stereotype” placed among the student population by the popular clique. From the popular clique comes my next example, as her wardrobe does not make her a good person (she is not nice at all in fact), and she only has her clothing and appearance as a social staple to “friends.”
Her whole life was a financial “carpet ride” where her parents were successful, her dad was a local lawyer, and they vacationed 3 times per year. Every item of clothing that she owned was name-brand and every friend that she had mirrored this similar aspect of fashion. Money never was an issue, her parents paid her way for everything, and the friends she acquired based their views of her through her financial stability and appearance. She looked the part of a “happy, successful, nice” person, however the inside was not pretty. The way she judges others and treats others is inhumane. The way she glares at those less fortunate. The way that she believes she deserves more than others because of her materialistic objects makes her an ugly person. These 2 examples are complete opposite examples from within my high school population, however they both represent how “clothes don't make the person.” It is what is inside that makes the person, their character should be judged and not their appearances should not.
I disagree with the saying “clothes make the person” based upon my past experiences, as everybody comes from different backgrounds and situations, there should be no judgment besides that of one's character. “Don't judge a book by its cover” is a popular expression complimenting my views towards this subject. People deserve more than just one passing glance.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Mini-essay #2 - Description
A GREAT DATE NIGHT
Uprooted and still standing, Olive Garden, a local restaurant in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is inspired from the “Italian Tuscan farmhouse” is a popular favorite. The business originated from General Mills 25 years ago from their food division of Darden Restaurants Incorporated. Today it presents authentic Italian food, passionate employees, and diner’s full stomachs. As for my boyfriend TJ and I, we were seeking just that when we chose our destination to receive a “romantic” and reasonable dinner experience.
The winter chill still hovering over the campus-town, I quickly scooted inside the restaurant into the warmth and the crowd of hungry waiting diners. TJ parked the truck in the dark atmosphere encompassing the awaited location as I held our spot for the next table. A hungry and (long) wait for both of us proved that both the food and service were desirable and worth the wait. Inside this building with a “Tuscan feel,” a soft but not dreary ambiance glowed from overhanging lights above the booths and centers of rooms. The glow set the mood for the date providing that “romantic” setting along with warmth to escape to out from the cold. We were seated and promptly greeted.
“Hello and welcome to Olive Garden, my name is Chandra and I will be taking care of you tonight,” the server announced with a beaming and genuine kindness.
The menus were presented, but I did not know what to choose, as many of the meals appeared and sounded delicious. TJ knew that he was in the mood for pizza, so he thought he would try the ‘chicken alfredo pizza.’ I however was choosing between ‘chicken Marsala with garlic mashed potatoes and red wine sauce’ and ‘stuffed-portabella ravioli with marina sauce.’ Finally I chose the chicken Marsala as the server took our orders.
The conversation around our booth was intimate and very social, as the light illuminated between TJ and I. Italian music softly floated around the rooms on the words of the dining families, friends, associates, and lovers. All aspects of this restaurant please its diners: the setting, the food, the service, and the affordable price. Our food was presented within reasonable timing even though it was a busy night, and the smells of all of the delicious food before us consumed the senses.
Hot lightly salted breadsticks, fresh salad served on ice-chilled plates, cold drinks, and steaming hot entrees lay before us upon the oak-furnished table. It could not be contained, our happiness, and the contentment of the location and time that we were both in together. Conversation, laughter, and good eats filled that night in the “Tuscan” scene.
We left after a pleasing meal, slowly meandered away from the cozy and inviting environment that created the enjoyable date night, and into the cold dark abyss towards the truck near the mall parking lot. The restaurant was so busy that the near lot was full and the truck had to wait for us elsewhere, far into the cold. We scurried into the cold cab of his truck as we clutched hands for "warmth." The dress up night at Olive Garden was just right.
Uprooted and still standing, Olive Garden, a local restaurant in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is inspired from the “Italian Tuscan farmhouse” is a popular favorite. The business originated from General Mills 25 years ago from their food division of Darden Restaurants Incorporated. Today it presents authentic Italian food, passionate employees, and diner’s full stomachs. As for my boyfriend TJ and I, we were seeking just that when we chose our destination to receive a “romantic” and reasonable dinner experience.
The winter chill still hovering over the campus-town, I quickly scooted inside the restaurant into the warmth and the crowd of hungry waiting diners. TJ parked the truck in the dark atmosphere encompassing the awaited location as I held our spot for the next table. A hungry and (long) wait for both of us proved that both the food and service were desirable and worth the wait. Inside this building with a “Tuscan feel,” a soft but not dreary ambiance glowed from overhanging lights above the booths and centers of rooms. The glow set the mood for the date providing that “romantic” setting along with warmth to escape to out from the cold. We were seated and promptly greeted.
“Hello and welcome to Olive Garden, my name is Chandra and I will be taking care of you tonight,” the server announced with a beaming and genuine kindness.
The menus were presented, but I did not know what to choose, as many of the meals appeared and sounded delicious. TJ knew that he was in the mood for pizza, so he thought he would try the ‘chicken alfredo pizza.’ I however was choosing between ‘chicken Marsala with garlic mashed potatoes and red wine sauce’ and ‘stuffed-portabella ravioli with marina sauce.’ Finally I chose the chicken Marsala as the server took our orders.
The conversation around our booth was intimate and very social, as the light illuminated between TJ and I. Italian music softly floated around the rooms on the words of the dining families, friends, associates, and lovers. All aspects of this restaurant please its diners: the setting, the food, the service, and the affordable price. Our food was presented within reasonable timing even though it was a busy night, and the smells of all of the delicious food before us consumed the senses.
Hot lightly salted breadsticks, fresh salad served on ice-chilled plates, cold drinks, and steaming hot entrees lay before us upon the oak-furnished table. It could not be contained, our happiness, and the contentment of the location and time that we were both in together. Conversation, laughter, and good eats filled that night in the “Tuscan” scene.
We left after a pleasing meal, slowly meandered away from the cozy and inviting environment that created the enjoyable date night, and into the cold dark abyss towards the truck near the mall parking lot. The restaurant was so busy that the near lot was full and the truck had to wait for us elsewhere, far into the cold. We scurried into the cold cab of his truck as we clutched hands for "warmth." The dress up night at Olive Garden was just right.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Mini-essay #1 - Narration
BORING LECUTRE HALL
While the teacher lectured, I stared out the window. The beauty and grace of the falling snowflakes caught my eye as they fell down slowly to the icy streets of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. As I gazed, the shine of the window set me into some kind of trance, a comatose, which gave me moments of escape from the necessary yet rambling nature of diction flowing and reverberating within the walls of this prison.
“Will she ever shut-up?” I thought to myself as my communications professor monotonously uttered the meanings and origins of the terms “signifier” and “signified.”
I definitely had the urge every second of lecture period to either to dash out of the over-crowded lecture hall or to jump out of that window that I still found myself gazing through hypnotically. The outside world, though well below freezing point today, seemed like an inviting escape to this misery.
“Who knew, maybe class will be canceled suddenly due to this ridiculously cold weather today… or maybe for the icy conditions… or the… never mind… it’s no use. I’ll never get out of here, at least not for another 43 dragging minutes.” I contemplated.
“Hi… um… I was gone… so like… can I borrow your notes? Um… what’s your name again?” the bleach-blonde with the nose job asked with snobbery.
“Sure… oh and I’m Jen,” I muttered as I handed yesterday’s notes over and lay my head down upon my desk.
I can go unnoticed if I do happen to doze off as my assigned seat is somewhat hidden behind the three brawny fraternity guys near the right side wall. The professor does not seem to watch for the presence or demeanor of her students, which also aided in my safety against her wrath. Her blank and insincere gaze reminds me of a night watchman or a security guard; they are present at their job, but I wonder if they truly enjoy their duties. The gaze was cast away from me and towards the door near the back wall. Maybe she can’t wait to leave too I presume.
My gaze was directed inward as my vision turned dim.
“I ont pour attraper mon vol!” I heard myself say aloud as my name was called upon by that security guard who preaches to its inmates.
“What was she saying?” was murmured under the breaths of several of my peers.
“Jennifer, I’m glad that you have come back to us, and out of that dream. What does that saying mean?” the guard announced.
“Well, “I ont pour attraper mon vol” means I have to catch my flight. But I don’t know why I said it.” I uttered in reply.
“Well, our time is out. That is all for today and I will see you again on Thursday,” she grumbled.
In embarrassment and shock, I contemplated what my dream could have been about as I rushed out of the prison and toward my next destination: French 102 with yet another security guard.
While the teacher lectured, I stared out the window. The beauty and grace of the falling snowflakes caught my eye as they fell down slowly to the icy streets of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. As I gazed, the shine of the window set me into some kind of trance, a comatose, which gave me moments of escape from the necessary yet rambling nature of diction flowing and reverberating within the walls of this prison.
“Will she ever shut-up?” I thought to myself as my communications professor monotonously uttered the meanings and origins of the terms “signifier” and “signified.”
I definitely had the urge every second of lecture period to either to dash out of the over-crowded lecture hall or to jump out of that window that I still found myself gazing through hypnotically. The outside world, though well below freezing point today, seemed like an inviting escape to this misery.
“Who knew, maybe class will be canceled suddenly due to this ridiculously cold weather today… or maybe for the icy conditions… or the… never mind… it’s no use. I’ll never get out of here, at least not for another 43 dragging minutes.” I contemplated.
“Hi… um… I was gone… so like… can I borrow your notes? Um… what’s your name again?” the bleach-blonde with the nose job asked with snobbery.
“Sure… oh and I’m Jen,” I muttered as I handed yesterday’s notes over and lay my head down upon my desk.
I can go unnoticed if I do happen to doze off as my assigned seat is somewhat hidden behind the three brawny fraternity guys near the right side wall. The professor does not seem to watch for the presence or demeanor of her students, which also aided in my safety against her wrath. Her blank and insincere gaze reminds me of a night watchman or a security guard; they are present at their job, but I wonder if they truly enjoy their duties. The gaze was cast away from me and towards the door near the back wall. Maybe she can’t wait to leave too I presume.
My gaze was directed inward as my vision turned dim.
“I ont pour attraper mon vol!” I heard myself say aloud as my name was called upon by that security guard who preaches to its inmates.
“What was she saying?” was murmured under the breaths of several of my peers.
“Jennifer, I’m glad that you have come back to us, and out of that dream. What does that saying mean?” the guard announced.
“Well, “I ont pour attraper mon vol” means I have to catch my flight. But I don’t know why I said it.” I uttered in reply.
“Well, our time is out. That is all for today and I will see you again on Thursday,” she grumbled.
In embarrassment and shock, I contemplated what my dream could have been about as I rushed out of the prison and toward my next destination: French 102 with yet another security guard.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Intro to me :D
My name is Jen, I am attending the University to receive a major in an unknown (as of now) field of study. It is truly hard for some people to make up their minds what they would like to be when they "grow up," and I am one of those people. The only problem is that I am mostly grown up and I should choose my profession soon if not at least my field of study. My indecisiveness hinders me from choosing and starting down a path to my career. This is a bad thing. Another bad thing is that I am also looking for a transfer most likely for next spring semester, maybe the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. It offers more programs than this University and it is a "Top Ten" School. It is a closer distance from my house than from here as well, but that would be the only downfall about transferring there. Also in the back of my mind, I have always thought about going into a military career of some sort. Being active in the National Guards while attending the University of Minnesota has been an idea of mine for quite some time. But I am one of those people who never know exactly what they want, as I have been this way my whole life.
More about me: I grew up on a dairy farm in the country, my dad is a farmer and my mom works for a corporation that assembles and distributes military parts. I have an older brother who is a telecommunications specialist and has a son who I adore very much. My nephew is 2 and a half months old and it's terrible that I don't get to see him very much since I'm away at college. Our family is very connected and everyone knows everything that's going on, which I guess in a way is both good and bad. I most likely will move away from this close-knit community of kin and work in the city or another state perhaps. I'm not moving to get away from them, I love them all dearly, but I would like a better salary and more job opportunities. I have been dating my boyfriend for over 4 months now and he is currently fulfilling his basic military training for the United States Air Force. So in some ways being a freshman I have experienced much, a feeling of freedom and independence, a feeling of loneliness and disconnectedness from the people that I love, and a feeling of fear of the unknown future pending and of doubt. It was much harder than I thought it would be, moving away from what I felt was my little life back in the country, where everything was always the same. But on the other hand at the same time, I have grown up so much without these securities and I know that there would be no other way... life changes everyday and everyone must go their separate paths for their own independence and finding of "self." I just wish I would find my own "self" soon. Through all of these trials of growing up, I have myself, my friends, my family, and God to help me find my way. If not soon, hopefully eventually. :D
My future goals and dreams include: buying my own home, having a prosperous and fulfilling career, traveling globally, having a family (spouse, kids), seeking and maintaining good relationships with people, and having a happy and meaningful life.
More about me: I grew up on a dairy farm in the country, my dad is a farmer and my mom works for a corporation that assembles and distributes military parts. I have an older brother who is a telecommunications specialist and has a son who I adore very much. My nephew is 2 and a half months old and it's terrible that I don't get to see him very much since I'm away at college. Our family is very connected and everyone knows everything that's going on, which I guess in a way is both good and bad. I most likely will move away from this close-knit community of kin and work in the city or another state perhaps. I'm not moving to get away from them, I love them all dearly, but I would like a better salary and more job opportunities. I have been dating my boyfriend for over 4 months now and he is currently fulfilling his basic military training for the United States Air Force. So in some ways being a freshman I have experienced much, a feeling of freedom and independence, a feeling of loneliness and disconnectedness from the people that I love, and a feeling of fear of the unknown future pending and of doubt. It was much harder than I thought it would be, moving away from what I felt was my little life back in the country, where everything was always the same. But on the other hand at the same time, I have grown up so much without these securities and I know that there would be no other way... life changes everyday and everyone must go their separate paths for their own independence and finding of "self." I just wish I would find my own "self" soon. Through all of these trials of growing up, I have myself, my friends, my family, and God to help me find my way. If not soon, hopefully eventually. :D
My future goals and dreams include: buying my own home, having a prosperous and fulfilling career, traveling globally, having a family (spouse, kids), seeking and maintaining good relationships with people, and having a happy and meaningful life.
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