Column

Hello readers,

So, this will be the third time I've tried to post my column that was in this week's edition of the Transcript. I figured it might be nice to show ya'll a sample of my writing-writing.

Enjoy!

I attended a recent lecture and while I found the speaker entertaining, I was more fascinated by my classmates who apparently checked their manners at the door. I know we forget things over the summer, so now is the perfect opportunity for a little etiquette reminder.

First, lectures usually last 60 minutes, plus a Q and A session. Please allot the appropriate amount of time. If you absolutely have to leave during the lecture, plan accordingly. Sit in the back of the auditorium, on the end of the a row, so you cause the least disturbance.

I've found myself part of the following scenario numerous times.

I'm enjoying a lecture. The person two seats down decides that it is escape time. Said person closes their notebook in a flurry of rustling paper, shoves the notebook in a bad, an action which sounds like a blacksmith's shop, stand up and lets the fold-down chair bang against the seat back, and tried to slide by the entire row while saying excuse me and finally escaping in squeaky shoe glory.

Please just sit on the aisle end.

Also, those of you with a chronic bladder issue, take an end seat. You cause even more problems then our before-mentioned escape artist. Not only do we have to accommodate your exit but then we also have to let you back into the row.

Second, when you do escape the lecture, right outside the door is an inappropriate time to call your roommate and say how boring the lecturer is. You might not know this, but people in the lecture hall can still hear you. So now, instead of focusing on the lecturer, they are focusing on what you had for dinner and what a jerk so-and-so professor is for requiring you attend. Truthfully, nobody cares, least of all the people still in the lecture.

Third, in a cramped lecture hall everyone can hear you whisper. I know some speakers are boring. I know sometimes you are just there for the extra credit but your boredom gives you not license to ruin the lecture for other people. It's like talking through a movie at the theatre. That is a very bad way to make friends.

So, I've got a few suggestions.

First, don't attend. If you think that lecture will be hazardous to your health, spare the rest of us your germs and stay home.

My second suggestio is that you bring something to do. Bring doodle paper, work for another class, your phone (on silent of course), a book, just something that will keep you quiet. But, if the talking bug does bite you, write a note to your neighbor. It might take an extra minute but at least you're being respectful to those around you.

To close, I think we as students also have to remember that these lectures are a privilege. OWU does not have to invite these people to campus. That siad, I think it means we need to be respectful to them both in out behavior during a lecture and in out interactions with said lectureres. Check your ego at the door, there is a reason the lecturer is on stage and you are in the audience.