Thoughts on class on 9-10-2008

When I had graduated from high school and had just begun my undergrad, I was astonished by the freedom I was allowed. If I didn't want to go to class, I didn't go! I didn't have to have my parents call, and I didn't need to pretend that I was sick. I could simply keep sleeping if I wanted to. I soon learned that with that freedom came responsibility and accountability. If I missed class, I couldn't participate, and if I didn't participate, my grade went down. I learned quickly that missing class is not to be done leisurely.

When I started my major at MSU, I quickly discovered that I didn't even want to miss class. That sentiment has carried over in to my graduate program. I honestly enjoy class and I'm one of those nerds who LIKES going to class.

Regrettably, I had to miss class on the tenth. My girlfriend's mom needed emergency surgery performed on her back, and the only hospital her insurance covers is in Burnsville. However, in discussing what was covered, I almost feel as if I had been there.

The big thing that was covered was Skype. As the class soon discovered, not every computer treats a program the same way. Sometimes there are hardware issues that prevent you from speaking or hearing other people speak, sometimes there are network issues that prevent the voice from coming through clearly, and sometimes there are no reasons for something to malfunction, but it does anyway. I sympathize with those who had problems with Skype and the lesson, because there is no worse feeling than helplessness, and with computers, often the only emotion they cause is helplessness.

Better luck for tonight!