University Experience Comparison Assignment

The effect of war on students

            

           War is a terrifying word. Those who lived during such times were terrified to say the least. But we, the new generation, thankfully didn’t experience a global chaos that puts everyone on the edge of their seat. But can you imagine the people who did? It’s very interesting to read about the individuals who were present at those times. How they felt, what were they thinking, and most importantly their part at the time.

            The United States was at war. World War II to be exact. The Daily Collegian in December 18, 1941 stated that they have been accused of publishing too many articles on the war, which affected the students. But the Daily Collegian made it clear that it is their duty to publish the facts. Even if they are repeated. “As long as the campus is an integral part of the American Force, we will print news, which is essential toward winning that conflict.” (The Daily Collegian, 1941).

            How did the war affect the universities? Many students went to war, which was the reason the number of students dropped dramatically from 1940 to 1945 (Year Book 1944-1946). However, it was great to see that Penn State didn’t change that much. College started in fall 1940 with the soccer team pulling through it’s seventh undefeated season in a row.

            Comparing this to the war in Iraq, there’s no competition to what is a greater calamity. I asked one of my relatives to compare the two. To be exact, I talked to my aunt about the situation. She stated that very few news articles are being published about the war in Iraq than what was published during World War II. Actually, many people don’t know the exact situation that is in Iraq. Including residents of the Arabian Gulf.

            In conclusion, war, no matter how big, is a disaster. But how it’s being dealt with by neutral citizens is what makes us stand together. It’s great to see newspapers, universities, and militaries doing their part. Whether it’s spreading news or actually fighting in the war, it’s an important role that should be recognized as heroism.

References:

            "We Strip for Action." The Daily Collegian [State College] 18 Dec. 1941: 2.

http://digitalnewspapers.libraries.psu.edu/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=RENHLzE5NDEvMTIvMTgjQXIwMDIwMA==&Mode=Gif&Locale=english-skin-custom

Penn State Year Book 1944-1946. 47

The Alchemist

The alchemist and Santiago met a monk who was going to help Santiago reach the desert.  During the journey, the monk brought some lead. The alchemist used his alchemy skills to transform the lead to gold. Santiago asked whether he could learn it. The alchemist explained that this was his Personal Legend, not Santiago’s (Santiago’s personal legend is the treasure). He divided the gold into 4 pieces. Each kept one but he asked the monk to keep two in case Santiago needs one more. Santiago was puzzled and questioned the alchemist. The alchemist explained by saying an Arabic proverb:

“Everything that happens once can never happen again. But everything that happens twice will surely happen a third time” He was referring to when Santiago got robbed twice. Then the alchemist left and Santiago went alone to pursue his Personal Legend.

I finished reading the book and I'm afraid if I say anything more I will completely spoil it. It was a truly inspirational book and I had so much fun reading it.

The Alchemist Summary

Santiago and the alchemist continued their journey but the war was still going on.  They met a tribe along the way which took them as hostages. The alchemist offered Santiago's money to their boss and he explained to Santiago that his life is way more important than money.