Monday, July 09, 2001

I Should Respect You!

One more time, the day to work with incoming students came and went. I met with parents, like I did two weeks ago, and that went well. Later on, we went to a reception and we mingled around to give the students and families a human face. After everyone left, I stayed behind talking to one family about resources around campus (where's Target?).

I found myself talking to a group of girls, and we introduced ourselves. On girl was asking me all sorts of questions about getting involved in all the student activities she could find. She seemed to be one of those freshmen that wanted to do everything, burned out, and then went mad underground the next year, only to resurface at graduation. She asked me, "You must be pretty young to work here. You must have graduated."

"Actually, I just received my doctorate in May."

"Oooh, I should respect you."

(insert Jurassic Park screechy dinosaur sound here)

Isn't that a kick in the head? I wanted to laugh, but I just said, "Whatever!" They squealed with laughter. I smirked. We talked for a good 45 minutes about things on campus, life in the City, how a certain class is difficult, and that class happens to be the one I teach. It was nice that I was able to spend some time and talk to them, when I know that some of my colleagues were really tired and called it a day long before I left. At least they'll know that someone speaks their language, understands their needs and can relate to some of their interests.

Enjoy your day, kids, and by the way, respect me.

Voodoo

PS: If you will notice, I have been hit some 1000 times. Thanks for your daily visits, encouragements and emails. I appreciate your time spent on the page, and therefore, I SHOULD RESPECT YOU! ;-)

PS2: Congressman Condit, don't tell them about me and you.

PS3: I say your wife did it!

posted by Voodoo Child @ 11:06:00 PM