How is your semester going? I have to admit that this one, for me, has been incredibly hectic! With fewer classes than I’ve ever had before, I’d have thought that spring 2001 would have been going more smoothly than it has so far.
I’ve discovered recently that as we progress into higher-level courses, some professors seem to forget that we often have more than one class.
I understand that as the study becomes more intense, the amount of work should reflect that, but I cannot understand why it must consume every waking minute (and some that should be reserved for sleeping).
I have talked to many students, most of whom are in the same situation – trying to balance classes, homework, work, family, friends and hobbies.
It is impossible to fit it all in, but if we prioritize and cut certain elements of life out, then those elements become neglected. It feels like a no-win situation.
Every once in a while, we need to have a break. A day off is a chance to catch up, and one day can make such a difference.
However, I’ve determined that we are not given that luxury as often as we should be.
Monday is President’s Day. It’s a national holiday. It should be a break.
Tuesday is the anniversary of the date in 1792 that our U.S. Postal Service was created. That is definitely worthy of recognition.
Wednesday is the anniversary of the date when Samuel F.P. Morse gave the first public demonstration of the telegraph. Where would we be today if it were not for the telegraph?
Thursday is monumental for two reasons. It is Washington’s birthday, and on that day in 1630 that the Indians introduced popcorn to the Pilgrims. Popcorn is a staple for most college students; we should have a day of break in its honor.
Friday is the day in 1945 that U.S. Marines raised the flag on Iwo Jima.
The following Monday is the anniversary of the first subway in New York City. The next day is the day of the first Mardi Gras of New Orleans in 1827.
Wednesday is the day that the Republican Party was formally organized at Ripon, Wis.
Don’t you agree that these are all days worth the honor of a holiday from school?
I don’t know about you, but I could get a lot done if we could just have that week-and-a-half off. Is that too much to ask? Well, OK, maybe that’s a little extreme, but I still think we should get President’s Day.
I guess we’ll just have to be content to wait until the next precious off day comes. We can make it . I hope. Hang in there!

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