Missing the small things from W&J

Hi all,

As I sit here in my room thinking about life...yes life in general, I find myself missing W&J. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE it here in London and this has always been my dream to come here, but it is different from home. For example, the fact that classes only meet once a week can really throw me off. I find myself disconnected from the content being presented in class because there are five days between every meeting. The education system here for undergrad in my opinion seems very laid back. Not having a class every other day or at least twice a week really does take an effect on how engaged one is on the subject. I enjoy each of my classes, but I feel that they are not as rigorous as I had hoped. Despite some disappointment my goal is to take away everything I can. 


I am also noticing the fact that as an international student, the language barrier can be a challenge more than I suspected. I find myself often raising my hand for clarification on what is being said. For example today in my media production class, which is a class that focuses half on radio and half on t.v., both of which I have experience in, the lecturer made the following statement, "A cue is when an anchor introduces the speaker." Originally I was told a "queue" was a line, however this is also known as a "tease," as I was taught at KDKA CBS. Another example, is a "CV," which is known as a Resume. I found myself really confused by that one! 


While I am used to having to read an extended amount of reading on my own. I have to say here the phrase, "learn on your own" and "teaching yourself," has been taken to a new level. I find this method interesting. On the syllabus for my classes there is a page or two of "suggested" readings but not required. Therefore, the idea is that we as the students, will retrieve and read the books on our own. I guess one benefit is you don't have textbook fees. You either find the readings online, check out the books at the library or the lecturer will handout a think...and I mean big booklet of all the readings needed for the class (I was lucky enough to have this privilege and not have to worry about checking out books from the library). 


In other news it is now October and there is a campaign going on here in London called "Go Sober in October." As you may or may not know the legal drinking age here is 18. From what I have researched the campaign is geared more toward 18-25 year olds, the challenge is for anyone who wishes to participate. 


Two musicals next up on my list are, "Wicked" and "The Phantom of the Opera!" I am super excited about both of these productions. I am very interested in the stylistic differences in theatre here in London versus in the US. Stay tuned for an update on these performances. 


Tennis is going well and our first match is this week! I am ready to compete and feel that overall both the guys and girls teams are strong. All of the matches will be played in doors which is nice with the up and down weather here as of lately. 


I hope everyone is doing well and I want to give a special shout out to the cast and crew of "Avenue Q." Also, a big shout out to my advisor and the director of the musical, Dr. Maresh!!! Break a leg everyone!


CHEERS,

Ty G. :)