As my first semester in grad school draws to a close, it is time for a bit of reflection.
This first semester has been a real eye-opener, and a test. It has been an eye-opener in that so far, grad school seems a lot like my undergraduate experience, at least as far as schoolwork and level of instruction are concerned. While I remain cautiously optimistic about the caliber of future courses, I am a bit disappointed with the academics involved in my first semester. Without going into arduous specifics - one class was basically a rehashing of American history from 1930 to the present, and the other class was stuffed with material I will never use unless I go into a very specific sector of political management. In essence, the second class should be split in two, with the general/theory knowledge being one mandatory class, and the specific/detailed knowledge being an elective in one of the study-tracks that students can choose. A disappointment was that one of my professors was politically bigoted not only against conservatives, but against Ralph Nader for having the gall to exercise his right as an American to run for elected office. Sadly, the professor seems to have forgotten that this nation is a Republic, and as such, political power flows voluntarily from individuals, to our elected representatives. We do not owe fealty to them or their political parties. They are beholden to us.
My mission to advance multiparty majoritarian democracy in the United States will not be deterred.
The real surprise and joy of my first semester was getting to know my fellow students. It is positively thrilling to be around a group of smart, friendly, ambitious, and diverse group of people. They range from all different backgrounds, areas of the country and the world, political orientations, and ambitions. I have found them all to be open to engagement, and incredibly fun to be with, both in a university setting, and in social settings.
My wife and I have loved getting to know northern Virginia, and the district. Exploring, striking out on our own, and getting recommendations from students and co-workers, has been great fun. We look forward to more of it, as there is so much to see and do. Our next big challenge.....the conversion to DTV - do we try to get an antenna to get us enough signal? Or, do we get basic cable? The dilemma.......I am rather ambivalent, as since I work full time and go to school part time, I do not have that much time to watch TV. Netflix is a different weakness altogether though....
I will try to keep the blog updated more regularly with my political musings.....still waiting for Obama's transition team to call me!
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