What I have learned during the first three weeks of this semester...

-My parking space is way too far away from my classes.

-I should not wear flats to class when it is raining outside.

-Writing an essay four hours before it is due is NEVER a good idea.

In recent years I have truly discovered the value of my education. I have learned about exotic cultures as well as acquired skills that allow me to be more lucrative in my life. As a result of my academic education I have learned to communicate well with my employers, associates, and students. So why oh why can I not seem to articulate my ideas into a two page (yeah, that is approximately seven hundred words) that us due in just a few hours? I have drawn a complete blank with this paper, and I am somewhat certain that I will not be proud of the final draft I will turn in. It is only a literary analysis paper (which is kind of "my thing"), so I really do not understand why I am finding the composition of this essay so difficult. I have know this essay was due on tonight for about three weeks, and I honestly could have began this whole process earlier in the week. I suppose the real lesson I have learned is to not wait a few hours before an essay is due to write it. No more procratination this semester for me.

-I have also learned brownie breaks (as I do not smoke to take smoke breaks) always assist in the writing process.

I Call Shenanigans

The first attribute I have noticed about the modern University of Arizona female student is her constant need to fully dress herself in a gym wardrobe and attached IPOD while clutching her nylon colored water bottle seemingly preparing herself for a rigorous workout. She pins her untidy hair out of her face, stretches...and walks to the on campus Starbucks trying not to trip in her comfortably trendy Ugg boots. First, I realize it is popular to appear healthy and in shape, but I am not fooled by anyone who claims she is exercising with perfectly flawless eyeliner and a stomach full of iced mocha mocchiato. Second, I understand Uggs are comfy for her feet and maybe she plans on changing into her tennies once she reaches the gym (or where ever this rigorous workout is to take place), but I feel girls who spend precious time deciding which matching tracksuit to wear, styling hair, applying makeup, and telling the world "No, I really just woke up this unblemished" is a liar. I am calling shenanigans on this modern girl.

Let me just say that I am not trying to be judgmental, but it is frustrating that women feel pressured to appear attractive and stylish to outsider even as they pretend to work out. (Does anyone really look attractive while working out?) A tracksuit is supposed to be an effortless outfit, and I am irritated that now when I have a lazy day I contemplate putting on makeup. I am irritated with myself that I now feel completely unattractive in a tracksuit without makeup and (purposefully) untidy hair.

-Nikki