Author: Polly Johnson
As I continue on this journey known as junior year, I have opted to forego Grille-inspired social time in order to take advantage of the more intellectual pursuits our school has to offer. Most recently, I attended Jim Amoss' talk about the obstacles he, as Editor in Chief of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, faced as Hurricane Katrina wiped out his hometown, as well as Frank Sesno's enlightening speech that kicked off the "Selling the News" symposium.
While here to discuss very different topics - Amoss to share a personal tale of loss, devastation and perseverance and Sesno, of CNN, to discuss the role of the media in today's modern world, their dedication and willingness to share their stories with us, not to mention the trek to our fabled green mountains, is something we should take pride in and be respectful of.
Unfortunately, as the guests turned to the question and answer segments of theer lectures, it was impossible not to notice half of the audience filing out of Dana Auditorium, climbing over seats, adjusting jackets and zipping up backpacks on their way. I am just as busy as any other Middkid - we all have pressing commitments and deadlines and papers to write and teachers to meet and practices to attend and naps to take and meals to eat. But on both occasions, I could not help feeling humiliated by the lack of civility during the mass exodus out of Dana Auditorium.
What do I suggest? Sit near an exit, preferably in the back or the aisle, if you know you have to leave early. Wait until outside to zip up your backpack and put on your coat. If you don't need to leave, stay, as the Q&A could offer insight into something you hadn't thought about. And by all means, show some respect. These lecturers take the time to visit Middlebury and engage us in their world, enlighten us with their experiences - the least we can do is remain seated.
POLLY JOHNSON '07
FEATURES EDITOR
From Tarzana, Calif.
NOTES FROM THE DESK
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