2008 Woodie Awards
What's Wrong with Convocations?
Confessions from an adoring convocation fan
Natalie Shirkey
Issue date: 12/10/03 Section: Opinions
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I'm screaming on my soap box to anyone out there who loves the convocations as much as I do. I know there is an opposing side, the ones who want to change, lower, or get entirely rid of the convocations. I prefer to rally with the pro convo group; you know who you are, the artistic souls who count the days till the next performance. Even more so, there should be a rally of students, faculty, and whoever else believes in them as much as I do to start a convocation fan group on campus, well maybe if it can get some support.
I love the convocations. In the words of Dr. Suess, "I would watch them in a box; I would watch them in purple socks, and even with a fox." You might be wondering why I care so much, and why I think they should be required and here to stay. I feel that it's a shining star at our college. I look forward to the convocations, and I think you should too. What's the big complaint? I hope that I am not the only one who happens to think that convocations are good. There are lectures, exhibits, and many interesting subjects brought to our attention. Is this not important in developing our sense of being a student outside of classroom requirements? There are enough requirements for your major; why not explore outside that zone?
According to dictionary.com, the term liberal art is defined as, "Studies intended to provide general knowledge and intellectual skills (rather than occupational or professional skills). It is also, defined as, "The college of arts and sciences." The term liberal means, favoring proposals for reform open to new ideas for progress and tolerance of the ideas and behaviors of others, or broad- minded. I consider myself liberal, and I take a liking to the variety, style and culture that the speakers and performances offer.
Don't you think it would be boring if you went to convocations that were interesting and catered to your liking every single time? Of course you are going to see things you do and don't like, and that's the beauty of it all; it opens your mind to something new. In the real world, you have to deal with situations and people you don't like; it is time to learn. If you want to be just entertained, go to one of the events that are meant for a social activity.
I love the convocations. In the words of Dr. Suess, "I would watch them in a box; I would watch them in purple socks, and even with a fox." You might be wondering why I care so much, and why I think they should be required and here to stay. I feel that it's a shining star at our college. I look forward to the convocations, and I think you should too. What's the big complaint? I hope that I am not the only one who happens to think that convocations are good. There are lectures, exhibits, and many interesting subjects brought to our attention. Is this not important in developing our sense of being a student outside of classroom requirements? There are enough requirements for your major; why not explore outside that zone?
According to dictionary.com, the term liberal art is defined as, "Studies intended to provide general knowledge and intellectual skills (rather than occupational or professional skills). It is also, defined as, "The college of arts and sciences." The term liberal means, favoring proposals for reform open to new ideas for progress and tolerance of the ideas and behaviors of others, or broad- minded. I consider myself liberal, and I take a liking to the variety, style and culture that the speakers and performances offer.
Don't you think it would be boring if you went to convocations that were interesting and catered to your liking every single time? Of course you are going to see things you do and don't like, and that's the beauty of it all; it opens your mind to something new. In the real world, you have to deal with situations and people you don't like; it is time to learn. If you want to be just entertained, go to one of the events that are meant for a social activity.