Mid semester reflections

Dear Professor Cline,

Well, this semester has been interesting to say the least!  Returning to school at my age is challenging in itself.  The last time I was a student in a classroom was in 1995.  Add to it, all online classes (6 classes 14 credits) . . . what a learning curve!  The reason for all online classes is the fact that I live over 50 miles away from the Prescott campus.  With the cost of gas, all online classes for me was purely a monetary decision.

When I was in college 17 years ago, I didn’t even own a home computer.  I remember my ENG 101 teacher taking us to the computer lab in the library and telling us “When we get there, whatever you do, don’t touch the tool bar!”  Leaving the classroom, I said under my breath “what the hell is a tool bar?”  Apparently I said it a little louder than I thought because the next thing I knew the instructor put his hand on my shoulder and said “Oh my God – you don’t touch anything – I will help you.”

I tell you this because – I have come a long way!  When I was in high school and 15 or so years later in college I had never heard of MLA formatting, and now another 17 years later back in college – guess what?  I not only am taking online classes with my own laptop (although a little difficult at times), I am figuring out many things, not the least of which is MLA formatting – well at least I am giving it my best effort.

I have not really enjoyed the items you have had us read so far, although I am learning from them.   I am hoping that I will be able to enjoy White Noise.  My thinking is that maybe my writing will get a little easier and better if I at least enjoy the subject matter somewhat.  My hope is that I can absorb enough knowledge that you are imparting on all of us to earn a grade of at least a ‘B’.  If so, I will feel successful.  Success in our endeavors – whatever they are – is what life is all about.

Have a Great Day!