Monday, August 26, 2013

How to find what you are not looking for

Please read Chapters I and II of Dragons, History Professors, and Other Hazards of College Life. There's a lot of advice in these two chapters, much that you've heard before, plus (perhaps) a few things you hadn't. What (if anything) in these chapters surprises you? Of the familiar advice, what seems worth reinforcing? Is there anything you would have added to the chapter if you were giving college success advice?
Posted by Ancient Art at

13 comments:

  1. Andrew WegnerAugust 26, 2013 at 2:02 PM

    Learn to live wisely: stay away from drugs, alcohol, and make wise relationship decisions. If you are a religious person turn to the Lord in time of need. And learn vicariously, listen to what the people that have gone on ahead of you have to say.

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    1. Ancient ArtAugust 26, 2013 at 7:09 PM

      My dad's suggestion to learn "vicariously" was some of the best advice he ever gave me...

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  2. AnonymousAugust 26, 2013 at 6:21 PM

    The few personal stories in the first chapter surprised me. Here is some advice that seems worth reinforcing at least to me. Going to the library to study instead of a noisy, hot dorm. Stay away from drugs and alcohol. Balance out the combination of school, relationships, and work. Learn to manage your money. And ask for help when you need it.

    - Grant Yungwirth

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    1. Ancient ArtAugust 26, 2013 at 7:10 PM

      Finding some place cool to study is particularly appropriate with this week's weather. Hope things aren't too uncomfortable for you guys in the dorms.

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  3. AnonymousAugust 26, 2013 at 6:30 PM

    Dakota Feller: Love the Hamlet reference in the beginning! When Polonius said goodbye to Ophelia it reminded me of going to college. I like this book a lot more then any other textbook because its like reading a personal novel that also helps you. So far I like!

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  4. AnonymousAugust 26, 2013 at 9:14 PM

    Roy Reese: Allowing college students to figure things out for themselves is important, but the point about avoiding drugs is something that must be stressed for young minds. Alcohol and drugs can very easily be over-done. The points in the first few chapters, are very wise not only for college, but even for life.......anything can be overdone and finding time for solitude are important at 18 or 50.

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  5. AnonymousAugust 27, 2013 at 10:40 AM

    Donavan Soulek: The advice in the first two chapters are great. I love the examples. From Stanford to Northern must have been a big change. The freshmen advice from real past freshmen was great I will use it. I liked that the book talked about alcohol and drugs and God. Thank you for this book.

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  6. AnonymousAugust 27, 2013 at 4:23 PM

    Andrea Hilgedick:
    The advice is great, and so true. One mistake could end one life in so many ways. If people took the time to talk to others, it could help those that are struggling. Some do that, but not everyone does. College for me is a way to try and get out of the shell I've been in for years. It takes time to come out and be sociable as others are naturally. God can help everyone who call out to Him. If you let Him help you, you can find everything you're looking for & even things you weren't.

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  7. AnonymousAugust 27, 2013 at 4:48 PM

    Cassie Bottum: I think what surprised me the most was the examples given about the people in the different scenarios. They were stories I think we could all relate to in some way. It was just reinforcing the fact that you have to be cautious about everything and take care of yourself because one bad decision could ruin or end your life. I particularly appreciated the examples after the drugs, alcohol and relationship advice. I feel like we are told frequently throughout our lives that it's bad and you shouldn't do it but it eventually just goes in one ear and out the other. By having the stories it puts your mind back on the right track and proves that it can have serious effects on how the rest of your life will eventually turn out.

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  8. AnonymousAugust 28, 2013 at 9:35 AM

    Meridian Broussard: The advice is extremely helpful, we are always told that certain things could happen if we drink or do drugs but having an example that has actually happened makes it more real. The 21 things to help guide freshmen was also helpful, it reminds you that other people are going through the same thing you are and you are not alone in your struggle to adjust to college life. Also just reminds kind of reminds you of the available resources on campus. The first two chapters have reopened my eyes to what possibilities college life offers you.

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  9. Collin FransenAugust 28, 2013 at 11:55 AM

    The advice I have read about so far have been helpful. My mindset has changed for the better and I have a better understanding of what to expect this school year. The past examples from freshman are great additions.

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  10. AnonymousAugust 28, 2013 at 1:38 PM

    I agree with Collin. The help from the other students makes it seem like I'm not the only person in this strange phase. -Trent Dean

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