Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The years we spend as undergrads are filled with explorations and challenges. We embark on this journey called college in the hopes of making new friends and discovering our place in world. But our time spent at the University of Kansas should consist of more than fraternity parties, fake IDs and library all-nighters. College should also be a time to step out of our comfort zones and challenge our beliefs in order to further develop our values and critical thinking.
The University offers several chances for students to not only become involved in student organizations that foster leadership, but also to acquire knowledge outside of the classroom.
Challenging the beliefs and ideas we hold from our upbringing is part of the college experience. An undergraduate degree is becoming more expensive, and in order for students to gain the most out of their money and time spent at the University they should take advantage of the many opportunities the University offers to establish critical thinking and open-mindedness.
On Oct. 27, the student pagan organization, KU Cauldron, held a lecture about witchcraft that was open to all KU students. This is a perfect example of a chance to learn about a not very common religion and to meet peers who practice this religion. This was also an opportunity for students to challenge their own religious beliefs by learning about a different religion. Attending events like this helps promote religious toleration and shape well-rounded adults.
The Hall Center for Humanities also offers lecture series on various topics. On Nov. 17, the center will welcome Chris Abani to speak as a part of their lecture series titled “Stories of Struggle, Stories of Hope: Art, Politics and Human Rights.” Abani is the author of several award-winning and controversial works of fiction. His experiences will likely offer insight to students regardless of their interest in his work. This University- sponsored lecture series presents another opportunity to become informed about topics that might not be addressed in certain classes.
If religion or literature doesn’t appeal to you, the University offers lectures and seminars on several other topics and areas of study. On Nov. 12, the department of linguistics is offering the seminar “Executive Function in Simultaneous and Sequential Bilingual Children” in Fraser Hall.
All of these events, lectures, and seminars are free to KU students; students need to devote only their time.
Preparing for life after college doesn’t simply require passing classes, but also an attempt to challenge ourselves by stepping out of our comfort zones. Until we can face conflicting opinions and beliefs with open minds, we can’t expect to grow from college students to adults.
The University offers several opportunities for students to foster intellectuality and practice critical thinking outside of discussion sections and textbooks. Students should make the conscious choice to further their undergraduate learning experience by attending some of these events. By doing so, students will get the most out of their undergraduate experience and the money spent on receiving their degrees.
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