24 june 06

Greetings,

We completed freshman oral exams yesterday. Everybody passed, some scraped through. Class participation was worth 20% and many increased their score by seizing the initiative. A huge positive step considering they are Business majors, not English majors.

The final allowed them to speak about a) the most important lesson - life or school - learned this year and b) best advice they'd offer incoming freshmen.

A sample of their sharing: "Practice good manners, join associations, manage your time, use the library and bookstore. Be honest. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Get to know your brothers and sisters. 'I can do it,' attitude with confidence. Keep your passion alive. Develop teamwork. Practice self-reliance. Express your love to others. Carpe Diem. This reality offers you many choices, it's up to you to either avoid it or face it. What you experience is up to you."

They taught me so much this term. It was an honor and joy. I wished them a safe and peaceful summer, thanking them for trusting me to help them.

Peace.