Blog 7: What is Service-Learning?

                        The service-learning dialogue session, led by Daniel Tome, proved to be a very effective way of showing students the importance of community service. Daniel Tome began the session by asking for an answer to the question, “What is service-learning?” After hearing a few opinions, two long arrows were drawn side-by-side on the chalkboard.

First, we were given two post-its each, and we had to write one service project we’ve done on each one. Tome then labeled one end of one arrows “direct” and the other end “indirect.” Before discussing the meaning of each term, we were told to stick our post-its in the appropriate spot on the line. For example, if the student felt that his or his service project was purely direct, the post-it would be place to the left. Then, we discussed the meaning of both direct and indirect service-learning. Although there are several meanings of each, it seemed as if the indirect service-learning projects included more internships and research. Meanwhile, the direct service-learning projects involved simpler activities, such as helping out with a soup kitchen.

The two activities I used were tabling for the Blood Drive and volunteering at the Atlantic County Animal Shelter. I put both near the “direct” side of the line. I consider the Animal Shelter direct because the animals are benefitting from my volunteering immediately, and I am there to see the effect of what I’m doing. However, after the discussion, I think that tabling for the Blood Drive would be an example of indirect service-learning because I don’t see the benefit of my tabling.

The board, by the end of the session, had many more post-its on the “direct” side of the arrow, since it is usually easier to participate in blood drives or Relay for Life than it is to provide research. In the future, it should be Stockton’s goal to provide more of this influential indirect work. Personally, I believe that research is one of the only ways to completely fulfill the meaning of “service-learning.” While providing a service for those in need, students would be able to provide research on treatments for diseases (such as cancer), which may broaden the medical world at the same time.

Blog 6: Mary Roach Convocation

                        Mary Roach, the author of Spook, visited Stockton soon after the freshman class finished reading her book. It was quite interesting to see the author’s views on her own work, especially when she says that she didn’t mean to upset the audience of her book with the ending. I never thought that an author would disagree with his or her own ideas, since the must edit their own work so many times. Mary Roach, through her sarcastic and humorous personalility, certainly got her point across.

After reading the book, I can’t say I was pleased by the conclusion, “What the hell. I believe in ghosts.” After discussing the blunt ending in seminar, I learned that everyone else felt the same way. However, Mary Roach apologized for the ending during the convocation, which none of us were expecting at all. She explained that the way she worded the ending was definitely misleading.

As the readers of the book, we thought she was just throwing all of her studies out the window, simple because it’s easier to say she believes in ghosts. After a whole book of going from place to place, scientist to scientist, she disregarded it all. However, Roach explained that she regrets using this statement to close the book.

In addition to discussing the book, the audience of the convocation learned quite a bit about her personality. Having read her book, I was definitely able to see her as a sarcastic person. However, I didn’t think her sarcasm was used well in the novel; for a topic as controversial as the afterlife, there is hardly room for joking. At the convocation, I was able to determine her personality much easier. Her sarcasm and light personality certainly makes her as unique as she is.

Blog 5: “Whose Line is it, Anyway?”

            One of the best Stockton events is “Whose Line is it, Anyway?” performed by Stockton’s very own drama club. This brought back memories of watching the show on television, and if it’s possible, Stockton’s version was way funnier!

The members of the drama club were able to show off their improvising skills in several skits.  While most of the skits were based off of the real show, some were made up by the students. For instance, one skit began with a single scene and one person. Then, another person came into the scene, beginning a completely different scene. The next person came to change the scene again, and so on.

When all members are in the last scene, they must leave the scene one by one, ending with the first scene that was presented. The randomness of this skit is what makes it hilarious. In addition, there is a scene in which the audience chooses three well-known celebrities for the “Dating Game.” This skit involves three contestants, who are asked questions. Their answers provide the interrogator with clues as to who they are acting out.  The accents used are usually the best hint!

Lastly, one of the best games played in the game in which the audience chooses a scenario for the actors to act out. For instance, the scenario may be a vacation in Hawaii with family. To start, one actors may say “I went on vacation, and we went swimming with dolphins,” and then the others must pose in a way which depicts the scene described. From then on, the one actors that is not posing must describe what he or she thinks each person is trying to get across. This game is fun because the actions aren’t always what they seem to be.

When I was little, after my night swim team practices, I’d watch “Whose Line Is It, Anyway?” with my parents, and it certainly gave me something to look forward to. With all the laughs and fun, it was always a perfect transition into the next day. This is what the Stockton event reminded me of, and I loved every second of it!

Blog 4: Chong Night

            In the well-known N-Wing, Chong is the cashier who swipes each student’s ID card to get a meal. As we walk in, my friends and I look forward to the compliments from Chong, as well as a short conversation. As finals come to an end and stress is slowly being lifted off the students’ shoulders, this night of Christmas songs and food made by Chong is a great way to transition into winter break mode.

Chong Night, a night dedicated to the beloved cashier, was near the end of the semester, right before winter break. It involved Chong singing Christmas songs such as “Feliz Navidad,” as well as others. Not only did she provide entertainment during our meal, but she cooked everything that was served that night! The menu consisted of potato noodles, vegetables, and many other options that are not usually available to the students. This was a fun way to change it up at N-wing, and take the students out of their daily routines.

This only goes to show Chong’s dedication to her job! After sitting in the cafeteria for some time, my friends and I saw Chong’s family, who came to watch her perform. The best has yet to come- aside from the food and family, everyone was given their very own Chong face! This made the night as instant hit; everyone became Chong in a matter of seconds. In fact, my roommate and I still put them in front of our faces when we’re least expecting it! In this way, Chong night gave us a way to relax throughout the semester.

As well as being an enjoyable time, Chong Night allowed the Stockton community to give back to Chong, who always seems to enjoy her work and putting a smile on everyone’s faces. With the workload piling high toward the end of the semester, Chong Night gave me a way to relax and have fun in the middle of all the studying and stress.

Coming to Stockton is an experience I’ve never had before, so why stop there? While I’m here, I made a goal for myself: to take as many opportunities as possible. Over the summer, when I found “fencing” in a pamphlet, I knew I wouldn’t be able to turn it down! Although the first thing that came to mind was Hallie and Annie in The Parent Trap, I soon learned that it is nothing like the movie.

After the club members all got to know each other with a few ice breakers, we began to learn the basics of fencing. First, we learned the official stance used in fencing, called “en garde.” In en garde, we learned how to properly advance and retreat, using an imaginary saber. After retreating and advancing for a while, we got “suited up.” At first, it was difficult for me to get used to a saber swinging by my face. After a quick reminder that the helmet would take care of it, I was able to take action! After a few practices, we were able to fence with the electric scoreboard. To fence electrically, we hooked a wire onto the back of our suit, our helmet, and our saber. Whenever someone gets a point, the appropriate side of the scoreboard lights up. It was certainly a new experience!

Fencing is definitely not something I would have done in high school. It showed me that there is no harm in trying something a little different. After applying this statement to my studies, I learned that taking classes outside of my major may assist me in deciding what to do as a career. The lesson I learned by simply joining a club is well worth the time put into it. After fencing, I’ll be sure to take any opportunity that comes my way.