Wow! I guess I took a little hiatus there!
Well, it's clear...we're back in 'business' at UW-P! Today isn't actually the first day of classes, but it is the first day for the incoming students. This day is now called Ranger Welcome and it's a day packed with activities to get our first year students off to a great start!
Tomorrow, the Real fun begins! I'm already committed to taking that last spot in the parking lot, not only for the benefit of a student needing a closer space, but also to stretch my legs! I've also deemed myself the unofficial welcoming committee. It reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where Elaine suggested that everyone in New York wear nametags. Well, for the record, I have mine on...affixed to my Parkside gear, I might add! I will greet everyone in my path (even those of us staff members who have been here all summer and aren't really 'back' from anything or anywhere!) and am always happy to answer a question or give directions!
I say it all the time, but I still love being on that calendar! Now I even get to relive school through my first grader. He'll never be as excited as me about shopping for school supplies, but that's OK...he lets me enjoy the moment. Besides, it allows him to focus on the other aspects of being six! For those of you well out of the academic cycle, take a moment to reflect on school days (not even college days necessarily)...spiffy new supplies and all the excitement! OK, think about UW-P days too....the new syllabi's! Color coding your calendar for your classes. All those good intentions of reading ahead and not cramming for exams or doing papers at the last minute (or, was that just me?). Ah, it was fun, but I like the part about not having 'homework' any more!
Many of you have great memories of UW-P and college...I know, because you tell me, or we get to see the notes when you add comments on 'update your record'! Your successes have all been different, but UW-P gave you something somehow...a great mentor, a degree that helped you move up in your career, a lesson (or two) in human relations, lifelong friends (or maybe even a spouse!), knowledge, insight, proficiency in foosball or basketball, and the list goes on.
Let's hope the same...and more...for all the students coming back this week!
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