Mike's Thoughts on Life

I have come to realize that I have been quite distracted this semester. The idea of having this period of my life end, and start a new life again is terrifying. Uncertainty seems to be the name of the game. I have had such a wonderful time here at IU. I work two jobs that I love, I take plenty of classes that interest me, and I have met so many wonderful people. I am afraid that I have become comfortable. Why is this a bad thing? Why can’t I stay here and continue to survive here in Bloomington?

I think it comes to the idea of personal growth and development. I think I have taken everything from IU that I was meant to take. What does this mean? Let me outline it for you.

Personal Growth
As a person, I feel that I have grown and matured in immeasurable ways. I think about things critically while being practical and quick. I am more confident, but at the same time more cautious. I have come to see myself in many different ways. I hope that I can continue on this path of self-improvement when I move to a new city.

Academics
Over the last 4 and a half years, I have become an “Academic Person”. I define this as a person who not only enjoys learning for the sake of gaining knowledge, but also understands policy and the need for structure. In this respect, I have become tired. I have learned so much that I have lost interest in learning for the sake of learning. Going to class is nothing more than going through the motions. If I miss a class, I don’t really care because I know I can catch up. This tiredness is my strongest signal that I need a change.

Politics
I have been repeatedly disappointed by people who have attained top political positions at Indiana University. They have no regard for students, or their bank accounts. If the university is in trouble, or a department is in financial trouble, Indiana University simply digs into the seemingly bottomless piggy bank of student tuition and fees. Students should NOT need to work two jobs just to survive. Students should NOT be supporting departments in the university that have no academic interest. The sad thing is, students will keep paying because as soon as they are angry enough to do something about it, it is time to graduate. Indiana University is not run by smart people, and they do not deserve the respect of the students.