Reflections on School: What I Enjoyed and What I Didn’t

Introduction

school can be a mixed bag, filled with both enjoyable and challenging moments. For me, my experiences in school were a blend of joy, distress, and self-discovery. This article reflects on the subjects and activities that I found fulfilling and those that brought about stress and disappointment.

Enjoyable Aspects of School

Easy and Useful Subjects: Some subjects, such as Math, Chemistry, Physics, Economics, and Geography, were not only enjoyable due to their practical applications but also useful in real life. These subjects were often the most cherished during my academic journey.

Life at the Library: The school library was a sanctuary for me. Being in a small town, the nearest bookstore was far away. The library became my go-to resource, offering not just books but also interlibrary loans. The quiet and organized environment provided a perfect space for reading and learning.

Quality Teaching: Over the years, I had numerous teachers, and many stood out for their teaching skills. Teachers during my elementary and college years were particularly impactful. They provided the guidance and support that helped me through challenging times.

Seasonal Variety: Breaks from school, especially during summer, meant working on my father’s farm. This gave me a different perspective and made me appreciate the classroom in a new light. The work was physically demanding but provided a much-needed break from a structured environment.

Creative Outlets: Creative classes and writing opportunities were a relief. They provided a channel for self-expression and relaxation, especially during stressful times.

Social Competition: Engaging in quiz bowl competitions was thrilling. It allowed me to channel my competitive spirit in a positive way and made the competition enjoyable.

Challenges in School

Socialization: While initial socialization exercises in grade school and junior high were appreciated, as I entered college, I resented forced socialization activities. These exercises started to feel more like hindrances than aids in academic growth.

Financial Burden: The cost of education was a significant challenge. Although I benefited from public school and scholarships, the financial toll of out-of-state tuition during my doctoral program was daunting.

Support Staff: During my later academic career, support from staff was inconsistent. This inconsistency sometimes hindered my progress and added to the stress.

Limited Language Options: High school offered limited language options, restricting my ability to explore and learn new languages. It wasn’t until my doctoral program that I gained access to a wide range of language studies.

Curriculum Timeline: School curricula often do not align with the most effective timing for learning certain subjects. Younger students benefit more from language acquisition, while older students have an easier time with math, which could be studied more intensively in earlier years.

Conclusion

Overall, my school experiences were overwhelmingly positive. The enjoyable aspects far outweighed the challenges. Despite the limitations and challenges, school provided a foundation of knowledge, skills, and self-awareness that has been invaluable throughout my life.