*Ice Cream* : A season for change: A student's take on the election

*Ice Cream*: A season for change: A students take on the election

http://http://jenbrea.typepad.com/africabeat/2008/11/portrait-of-a-quintessentially-american-family.html

We are all happy that Obama won, and it is a great sign of a shift in the paradigms of world politics. This blog piece appealed to me because it adressed an important issue in my opinion, that of change. I talked of something similar in our blog, regarding xenophobia in our country(South Africa), and our university Rhodes. This is a great article because it is focused on a positive thing. If you want to read up on student having fun, check out our blog at: http://gmapjourn.blogspot.com/

through these blogger's eyes

First and foremost, I would like to say wow. This whole experience has been quite an adventure for me. Working with a group of girls and having to be the only guy there was quite a challenge for me, but I knew I was up for it. Blogging in itself is quite an intriguing genre of media. I had heard of it previously, but was not an active blogger myself, so to be afforded this opportunity to become a blogger was quite exciting…at first. This was before we got the dynamic duo of lecturers who blew my expectations for our tasks right out the window. The fact that I had to do group work was alright with me, it was just the fact that they expected so much out of us in such little time. I mean we are all not on the same computer literacy levels; as a result various alterations have had to be made to things such as submissions because of it. Most of the work we had done since the beginning of this year has been purely just written and mostly theoretical in nature; this was the first practical side albeit at the end of the course. Our topic for the blogs seemed easy enough when we first got it, “Surviving first year”, how wrong I was. Story ideas around this were actually broader then one could have imagined. This is because the first things that pop in mind are those faced by the majority of first year varsity students. Matters of the heart, mind as well as those of the liver are such. This was also the trick in terms of finding a specific blog audience because of the variety of first years not just in Rhodes, but all over the world. One then has to remember that not all first years are the same, especially here on campus; as a result the minorities are often overlooked. Things such as these had to be put into serious consideration when compiling whatever sort of presentation for the assignment that week. One of my personal highlights was having to write a profile on another person. First thing that appealed to me was that I had a second chance to do something earlier this year. It also meant that I could try out some other things I neglected to do previously. This was quite a worthwhile exercise because we weren’t confined to a first year journalism student like last time.
With all that having been said, I feel as though as a journalist, blogging opens a new platform for one to get their work seen. This is another aspect I liked about this term. My only gripe with everything has been some of the lectures and how they have been brought across to us. Some advice for future first years: ask the lecturers to have blog lectures in the Jac Labs or something on some days. I mean what is the point sometimes of having a technical lecture when you aren’t being afforded the opportunity to do it in lecture time. Other than all of that I would say that my writing has improved ever so slightly, meaning that I could still do better. I am still proud of myself and what I have done to this point. As I had mentioned before, my group was a bit on the unfavourable side for me. GMAP is the name we gave ourselves. The reasoning behind that was the first letter of each of our names. Working with the girls was quite interesting because I figured from onset that they would vote against me with most issues. For that reason I just made sure I make no wrong move to upset any one of them, but as I later found out they were all so relaxed with me, and very sweet to be around. They have also through their encouragement and criticisms contributed to my growth both as a team-member and as a writer. The other thing that I found helpful to me was some of the more theoretical lectures, because we found new ways to write, not just confined to the print media. Some of the material we covered, such as the Michael Jordan clips were quite nice. My only advice for future first years would be: request to have technical lectures (i.e. the more details blogging stuff) at the Jac Labs or something. That’s because sometimes one may hear how something is done in a lecture and when they get in front of a computer screen they blank out. Other than that and time constraints, this course has been quite fun and enjoyable.

Reflecting on Blogging

The world of blogging - the online community where anyone can sign up and share their story. I discovered this world in high school, through some friends who had opened their own sites on Xanga.com and Myspace.com. And I guess with high school being that place where finding yourself is a constant challenge, I envisioned a public sphere to speak my mind as a way to truly express what it was that I was feeling. So I entered the world of personal websites and blogs, through a Xanga and Myspace page.
And now so many years later this small branch of technology has grown into a monumental craze that almost everyone either engages in, or at least knows about. As an avid Journ1 student, I have heard a lot about the various parts of Journalism at Rhodes – television, radio, design, photojournalism and lastly new media.

The latter has been the focus of this term’s course in JMS1 and for the most part, it has been intriguing. It must be noted though, that a vast majority of students were completely thrown in the deep end and left to fight through technological intricacies on their own. However, I appreciate and applaud the enthusiasm with which our lecturers promoted their course, and do not deny that there is good potential in future Blogging courses.

The fact that a blog is a genre of media on its own, may imply that there will be ideological constraints and generic expectations; but having worked within this genre on an academic level I have become aware of the freedom that is allowed within this blog genre. Blogs are integrated into the public sphere, often on an international level, and the only boundaries that were implied were of an academic nature, demanding a standard of respect, intelligence and creative thought. However, although there is a lot of freedom in the blog genre, I think that knowing our tutors and lecturers would constantly be checking over us, inhibited a lot of truly personal thoughts.

However, there was still so much space for growth within our performances as a group and as an individual. I found it easy and fun to work within my group. Each member was always more than willing to adjust schedules and plans in order to sit and work together, but we were all equally considerate of other personal commitments too. In each tutorial we were given ample opportunity to share our thoughts on the course, discuss any technical difficulties and offer help to each other. Through these discussions we became aware of fellow students’ blogs and how they were approaching them, which allowed for each of us to learn and adapt our blog accordingly.

The theme of ‘surviving first year’ is not something that can be easily researched, which made it difficult to compile solid research if it was required in a task. But, because it is a theme that depends on personal experience it was easy to write substantial work based on what you as an individual had gone through, and what you had witnessed in other people’s lives. Though the research was limited, we were never short of sources like other first year blogs, friends’ perspectives and students from different faculties. The personal aspect of a blog meant that they could share their stories with the safety of knowing that they were not the only ones trying to survive first year.

I think in writing a blog, ethics can easily be lost to individual opinions because when you begin to share personal thoughts, one can easily lose the boundaries of ethics when the focus shifts from right and wrong to the liberation of saying what’s on your mind. Being encouraged to reflect upon personal experiences allows people to express themselves freely; the limitations of ethics curbs this freedom because each piece can not offend anyone or overstep any ethical boundaries. While this is not necessarily a negative thing, because ethical boundaries will ensure respect for human rights, it is also rather restrictive in terms of the international scale of blogging and how your posts can reach anyone in the world. If you are only writing in terms of ethics, you may not be writing honestly. However, I noticed that a lot of our blogs were able to find a balance. A lot of opinions were controversial and risky but never crossed the line to become unethical. Being aware of the diversity amongst our first years, I felt that we were able to respect everyone but still be able to write honestly.

I do not, personally, consider blogging to be journalism, but rather new media. And while I am very interested and involved in many branches of new media, I do not think that this work fully achieved its academic purpose. It was a creative way to put the theories we’ve worked with into practise but it was still a lot to take in and have to pay attention to. At times the detail and attention required to perfect the art that is blogging, was overwhelmed by other academic commitments and their demands. However, I think a lot of good times with group members were shared, and I truly believe that through the exposure to other first year experiences we were rewarded greatly with a more grounded and unprejudiced view of what we all have to tackle in a first year at university.

*Ice-Cream*: Student Veterans Face Different Challenges On Campus

*Ice-Cream*: Student Veterans Face Different Challenges On Campus

Student Veterans Face Different Challenges On Campus

Student Veterans Face Different Challenges On Campus

Posted using ShareThis

Having a taste of all the flavoured ice-cream

Reflexive piece

It is almost time for my final exams, wow it's end of the year. Time has gone past so quickly, it seems like just yesterday when I packed up my bags and came to Rhodes. It is so difficult to reflect because everything is still fresh in my mind. The year cannot end now, I have nothing to show for.

I try look at what I have done for the past nine months of the year. Firstly I think that I have pulled through a hectic year of work, deadlines, friendships and the most unbearable people and situations. Surviving first socially has not been such a huge challenge for me, because it is not my first year studying away from home, however it has not been easy academically. After taking a gap year, it was difficult getting back into studying, learning and actually doing school work. Waking in the morning and going to class has also been very challenging, but has kept me young at heart.

When I look back I must say the the first term was definitely best and everyone should definitely enjoy that time of the year. It started off with orientation week where I got to meet a lot of people with complete different backgrounds. With journalism assignment(the profiles) it helped me to ease to a new environment.

I am glad I have not fallen prey to popular groups or trying to fit in because I do believe that I am a strong willed person and with the morals I have been taught at home it is easy for me to apply these lessons and stay grounded. But I have learned that not all people are the same and can see it in some of my friends. They still have that high school mentality that you have to do certain things by compromising your standards to be liked.

There are many things I regret like not having random hook-ups, you know, just going with the flow or just drinking and dancing like there's no tomorrow because there is more to life than being serious and always worrying about doing your school work and impressing your parents. That's what I thought first term. But there is a time a place for everything, I do regret not putting enough effort into my academics and my June results evidently exposed me. But what sucks now it the fact that I do my best and it doesn't show and I ask myself if this is worth it, is it really worth my mother's money and my time and grey hair. The year is about to come to an end. Fourth term is off to a start and we are introduced to blogging as a genre in journalism. I thought that this was a great idea until we had to set up our own blog(the content and the layout), everything had to be thought out thoroughly and regularly posting blogs that is relevant to our audience. It is not easy, and it takes time and patience. Blogging according to me is something one would want to do if you have time and express yourself without being limited by genre and references.
Although I did not appreciate being limited, the criteria helps one with a clear and focused argument and it was empowering in a constructive manner. It was also difficult to meet up with my group members because doing the blog took time and effort and I was lucky enough to have competent team mates and it has worked out. Every time I had a blogging deadline, it would be frustrating and because it is part of the curriculum I had to do it and in the end, and many of us were not impressed with the journalism department for doing this to us, however I have learned enormously about blogging.

For future reference, blogging could be introduced in the first term where is a lot more time. First years also get to know one another and it would be easier then to work in groups. Lecturers should also not assume that all students are computer geniuses and we have and idea of blogging. There should be a few classes that are offered on how to start your blogs, because many students encounter problems with setting it up and posting assignments.

Overall blogging and the whole year of work overload was not as bad as students are saying. I think that it is just the stress that it is the last term and final exams are coming up, that we become frustrated. But student concerns should be taken into account and therefore making it more pleasant for future first year journalism students.

*Ice-Cream*: Tips for The infamous University favourite: The Drinking Habit

*Ice-Cream*: Tips for The infamous University favourite: The Drinking Habit
http://http://www.studential.com/articles/getarticle.asp?article=10

Tips for The infamous University favourite: The Drinking Habit

Oh, yes what would university be like without the drinks, parties and letting it rip in the name of good times. I quite liked this article because it is informative, and it gives people tips that they can implement on those 'epic' nights out.The style is not authoritative or discouraging about drinking, which is the same approach that my blog takes.
The article provides such as not mixing drinks and also making sure that people eat before they do drink.
The article also states a point that I had made about going out and having a good time but being able to remember what you did.The 'preventative measures' on how not to puke are a definite, there is nothing worse than being puked on! I think this is a great, informative article with tips that every university student can gain from.Rhodent’s take note!!
Check out the useful tips on:http://www.studential.com/articles/getarticle.asp?article=10

In retrospect: Looking back on the Blogging course

The end of the year is upon us, and it seems like yesterday that I came to Rhodes with a combination of excitement and nerves as I set out on my university journey, to live the ‘rhodent ‘ life.
This year has been a continuous growing process for me. It has been one that has been filled with moments of glee and pride, and knowing that there is nothing more rewarding than having a goal realised. These include having my first article published in the Oppidan Press as well working at RMR. While there have been frustrating and trying times, these have helped me grow as an individual and are indeed life lessons learned.

When looking at the journalism course, and focusing particularly on the blogging section, a number of mixed feelings arise. Although I feel that the course had good intentions, it ended up becoming more of a drag at times. I always try to maintain a good work ethic, and I like to get work done sooner rather than later, however with the blogging course I found it challenging to keep this approach constant. I always found that there was yet ANOTHER comment to be done, and I striking a balance with other subjects became difficult, because although the comments did not have to be long, they had to incorporate certain ‘genre characteristics, and I constantly had to bear in mind that I had to mention ‘Todorov or Propp, and ultimately it became monotonous. On the other hand though I think that the objective of the lecturers in piling up assignments served as practice because in journalism stories arise at any moment and routine is not something that you can really have.

There were times when feelings of apprehension and anxiety were plenty. There was always what felt like 10 things to do every week, and group work which meant having to work around everyone’s timetables. An example would be when we had to do the photo comic. It was fun to do but as I said, it meant having to work around group members timetables, and I also had to put other work on the back seat, to ensure that blogging took top priority. The course did teach me adequate time management and also that caffeine and Berocca are essential for those late nights, finishing the work I had put on hold for the blog. This course was five weeks long, but it has felt more like five months.
I know it seems harsh, but surprisingly I do think that blogging is a useful tool. It was nice to be able to write about issues and have an international audience to read the posts I wrote. In theory it is a nice and for leisure but in terms of blogging being a course, especially in the fourth term, which is exam term, this course was not an ideal. I do not feel that I learned any new substantial journalistic work, and I was annoyed at times, because I would go to lectures, and leave feeling I had not learnt anything new. I also don’t see where genre and narrative fit in with expressing ones views, so I found that I had to incorporate my opinion or construct it into a genre. Does that make sense? Surely my opinion is exactly that and should not have to be restricted because it has to incorporate structuralists? In spite of this I did enjoy putting my fingers to the keyboard and giving the world a taste of who I am and a taste of my thoughts. It is a pity that my thoughts were restricted though. I say this because each blog had to have a character and had to take a particular stance, my blog took the friendly approach. Having a blog character and even a specific target market can be limiting because I found that I had to first think of what I wanted to say, and check to see if the audience would be interested in what I was saying, I also had to be careful of how I said what I did; particularly on the seal clubbing topic. That was what I found to be disempowering and limiting about the blog. Another problem I had was the exhausted topic of ‘first year life’, that too is now an exhausted topic, that started in first term.
As I have said this course was time consuming, as opposed to other courses but I do feel that I was productive; if anything the course has reiterated the importance of productivity. I was productive and ensured that all my assignments were done and submitted on time. In terms of group dynamics, I was fortunate enough to be in a group with no ‘free riders’ and I did generate ideas regarding layout of the blog and during the photo comic production. I contributed to discussions at group meeting, and if my ideas were not used, we found a way of incorporating them into the idea that had majority support. This made for a good working environment and cooperative atmosphere to be in.
While interviewing I found that research is very important. What I said had to be substantiated with fact. With regards to the interview I found that I had to research my interviewee so I could get to know her better and to be professional. Although my interviewee was very candid about her character she however did not want her full name to be given, and this is where respect and ethics came into play and I only used her first name. In that way enabling me to utilise journalistic integrity and respecting my sources wishes.
I think that although blogging is not journalism, this course has taught me how to better handle stress and to strike a balance. I have grown in that regard and learnt the importance of doing things as soon as possible, which is what I like to do, and also been giving insight into the blogging world.
Andz

Comment on an opinion piece.

http://h-chickens.blogspot.com

I really had pleasure in reading your opinion piece. As a BA student it reminds me why I love the Arts and how it is important in my life. BA students, I believe are taken for granted just because we do not do “serious” degrees like Boom or B.Sc. As students of the Humanities department I do need to express that we are the heart of the world and with our knowledge of how humans emerge every other aspect such as economics and pharmacy are products of human creation and development.

As first years coming to university for a BA degree it is vital to learn about human existence and that they may have a more conscious mindset of the contemporary world to solve sociological challenges. I just hope that their parents are understanding and allow their children to express themselves in whatever they choose to study especially Humanities.

Response to an opinion piece

The following is a response to an opinion piece published on
http://www.my1stime.blogspot.com/
Wow, what strong view. I am sure (myself included) that many people need a wake-up call. These are our brothers and sisters we are talking about. I will admit that despite all education I have received on foreign nationals, I still have xenophobic tendencies. It is a bad habit that needs to be stopped, and if we don’t become proactive in finding solutions then who will. I mean, deep in our darkest hour of need as a people, it was them who readily took in the leaders of the struggle, and this is the thanks they get?! I am in total agreement with you because I am sometimes hurt by statements made about them because some of my best friends are from Zimbabwe. So, like AIDS, or TB, or even racism, Xenophobia is a disease that needs to be cured, and it can be, if we can start with clearing comments such as the one about “lama zizimbana”.

Hairspray: Part 3

Hairspray: Part 3

Expectations and Fears!

Some may say that you have to go to university because you will not find a decent job without a degree. Some may say that you have to go to university because it’s the place where you will truly find yourself. Some may say that you should go to university because it will be the biggest party of your life! The point is that to so many people university represents so many different things. So what should the point of it all be? Is there a point, or are the next few years just an excuse to waste more time on parties and friends?

Well, as far as I can tell university is meant to be the culmination of all that you could hope for, and all that you are afraid of. It is a place where you can study things that interest you, that open your mind and challenge your views. But it can be a place where studying new and different things, on a more intense scale, becomes unmanageable. It seems to be the kind of environment where you are encouraged to be the real you, free from the world’s judgement. While simultaneously being the place where trying to find yourself becomes a tricky, sometimes dangerous path. Regardless of all these contradictions though, one thing reigns true… university is an experience, the type of experience that once missed, can never be retrieved; which ultimately makes it a once-in-a-lifetime chance to grab hold of life and let it take you for a ride!

Marianne Williamson so famously said once, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure”, and while this statement may hold true to many situations in any person’s life, it may not suffice for the life of a first year student at Rhodes University. I say this because arriving at University, faced with the chance to finally gain independence and live a life that is entirely your own, is both unbelievably exhilarating and paralysingly scary at the same time. Your family, the support system that has helped you build your life thus far, lead you into your ‘new home’, unpack your new lifestyle, and then turn their backs and leave you to the world of Grahamstown, the town that will throw you through the rollercoaster that is first year.

The famous trio of ‘sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll’ will follow you in all the steps along the way. The pressure of having sex as apart of your ‘varsity experience’ could lead you into a whirlwind of self-doubt and misbelief; drugs, if they weren’t already, could become a new way of life, a typical habit to make it through each day; and when you realise how many friends you’ve made, how many parties you’re hitting, you will feel like rock ‘n roll’s number one hit!
But I guarantee that this false sense of belonging and importance will be the very reasons you come crumbling down at some point. No, it’s not about being pessimistic, it’s about knowing that nothing that appears to be perfect is real, and when reality does sink in, it is highly unlikely that it will be idyllic.

So here’s what you have to do…
You have to realise that your deepest fear is that you are powerful beyond measure and that the secret lies in whether or not you embrace that fear, realise you are worth that power and that you have every right to find it in yourself. University is an experience, it is important to achieve a degree, and it is important to embrace the freedom of the party life while we’re still so young! The reason it’s an experience is because as you struggle through all the aspects of life at varsity, life will be teaching you valuable lessons. You may realise the lessons straight away, and you may only realise them much later on in life. Either way, as long as you remember that our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, you will find the person you’ve always wanted to be, and that person will grow to achieve every dream you desire.

Have the same flavoured ice-cream...

It’s better to stay with your own kind when choosing a date.

Of all the other topics I read, I thought that I should definitely write about the topic above. Leaving high school we have so many expectations and naïve hope. We come to university to meet a diversity of people with totally different backgrounds and cultures which we come to appreciate, but that it seems like it is not all of us. Some are open-minded and are comfortable with other races are not and I have come to realize that there is no real social interaction amongst races. One would assume the popularity of interracial dating in the twenty-first century to be proof of racism and its wounds being a thing of the past, unfortunately not.

It’s better to stay with your own kind because when choosing a date because people of the same race are already different, and dating someone from a different race is just complicating matters. Dating a different race means that you will have to learn about their culture, their language and background and it is not easy accommodating something totally different. Other races are not very keen on interracial relationships.

Particularly I think that black women are very challenged in society. First of all we have to overcome the patriarchal societies and now dating is a challenge. According to my experience I see a lot of white girls dating black guys (and these are not your average black guys, they are either wealthy or they are foriegners). But do you ever see white men with black ladies, no and I wonder why. Could it be our accent, or the texture of our hair, our Saartjie Baartman bodies or simply our dark complexion?? Who are black successful women suppose to date when black men are going for white women and white men going dating white women( even if they are ugly and intellectually disadvantaged)



I know that they say you cannot choose the one you love (personality). But I think that part of human instinctive nature is to have preference. When you see someone for the first time you see the colour of, you don’t know what kind of person they are and you start judging and I think that this is where the problem stems from. Dating the same race helps you at a happier life. You understand their struggles because you have to experienced or know someone who has experienced the same struggles.

There are just too many politics involved when dating outside your race. Friends and family may not approve, and the couple will constantly be challenged in their communities, schools and work places. Non-white individuals who date interracially are attacked on many fronts, one being the notion of "selling out."

When dating someone you have to be economically, educationally, socially, culturally, and most of all romantic compatibility and is very important and sad too but how is this possible to date interracially with racism still rife fourteen years after democracy. Most importantly dating someone in the same race can assist you retain your culture, beliefs and traditions without any disruptions or question why you have to do them. It is just easier to date your kind, less complications and less drama.

First years are a target for seal clubbing!http://gmapjourn.blogspot.com

First years are a target for ‘seal clubbing’

Seal clubbing is a favourite pass time for many Rhodes males, but this term and what it means, in a university context, is not familiar to the majority of first year girls.
We come to university with a combination of butterflies in our stomach and huge toothy grins on our faces. We come excited to live the fun university life of endless entertainment and joining student unions for more partying and unforgettable times. We hope to meet our knights in shining armour. However this fairytale is momentarily shattered when we find that our knights are actually seal clubbers. Warning seal clubbers in on the prowl!
Seal clubbing is when older male students “prey” on first year girls, deliberately targeting them with the goal of sleeping with them. This is a disgusting trend that has manifested and continues to be a ‘hobby’ for male students in universities. After these sugar daddies have received what they want from the unsuspecting girls they subsequently dump them. This atrocious behaviour is incredibly worrying and distasteful. I find it incredibly offensive as a woman to have something like this actually being encouraged and made a joke of when it is not a light matter at all.
On the site www.confessionsofacouchpotatoe.blogspot.com seal clubbing is addressed where it is mentioned that at university men are only concerned about “spreading their seeds”. As frustrating and angering as this is, it is the unfortunate truth. I think that it is disheartening for first year girls, not because they are (supposedly) naive but because one would hope that men had morals and would not find it fun to use girls. I feel that this much hyped about seal clubbing is Neanderthal-like behaviour and the fact that it has become the norm only perpetuates it, meaning that more men will find it ok to partake in this cult.
Are men so afraid of commitment that they would rather ‘score a chick for a night’, than be in a relationship? Do they feel so inadequate that they would target girls who are new to university because they know they stand no chance with girls in second and third year? Can it be said that it is some sort of sick ego booster that only the male specie can understand?
I cannot believe how appalling behaviour like this is encouraged and congratulated when the ‘seeds have been spread’. First years then fall victim to these ‘hot guys’ who are after one thing. They fall victim to this because they are not told of it until it is too late and those who do know about it before they come to university, do not consider that the guys that have swept them off their feet would ever be involved in seal clubbing.
I cannot even begin to understand why these guys feel it an urge or duty to specifically aim for first years. Is there satisfaction in knowing that you have just used someone so that you can brag to the boys that you have more notches on the post? The scary thing is that this practise (which is what seal clubbing is) is an actual group with seal club branded t-shirts, as if it is normal thing to do. How sickening! Is this really how young males want to be perceived and is this the reputation they want to uphold? What is wrong with some people, that they feel it their role to commit such immoral and horrendous behaviour. How can these men not ashamed of their behaviour. Who knows what this behaviour will lead to? If people are accepting of this conduct then what other offensive practises are going to be accepted. I believe that first year girls must make themselves more aware of seal clubbing, but with that said it may well be difficult to tell a genuine guy from a seal clubber. If only these men had the tables turned on them and they could be used and left in a lurch so that they could feel what it is like to be made a fool of.
Two wrongs may not make a right but revenge would be sweet for those who have been wronged!

Racism at Rhodes and in general

Race has always been a sensitive issue in my life. From an early age my father made it clear that he does not particularly like white people. Despite this he never let me be affected by his apparent dislike for them. Like most children who have grown up in the post-apartheid era, I often feel as though the issue has dragged on for too long. The general consensus amongst most young people in this country is that of “get over it! It’s in the past.” The truth of the matter is that it is easier to say that if you are on the rosier side of the colour spectrum, i.e. the white side of life.
The majority of the black students at this institution (i.e. South Africans) are from previously disadvantaged or disadvantaged backgrounds and know the results of apartheid’s unfair system first hand. Even in social situations, the economic imbalance becomes very apparent, in relation to going out and enjoying one’s self. The tendency is for most students not being full able to fully enjoy what the varsity has to offer because they have been brought up without the knowledge of these, or that even from their schooling backgrounds prior to coming to Rhodes they have never been exposed to most facilities. All this having been said, even the administration in this place sometimes makes decisions on those grounds, such as through the implementation of the extended studies course.
A guy in res once asked me “kutheni lento ungasoze ubone mlungu kwafoundation?” which translates to: why will you never find a white person in foundation? This kind of question often raises the issue of misinformation. It also saddens me, because you will find that some students are placed there just because of English, and the assumption will be that because of a second language, or even third language background in English, they shall struggle with their studies is often the biggest critique I have with the programme sometimes. I mean, a friend of mine went to the Dean of Commerce last year to get his degree converted to the mainstream. All I’m saying is that they must leave it up to the individual after meeting and assessing them to go to extended or mainstream.
Other than that, the Rhodes experience for me has been quite interesting and for the most part incident free in relation to race issues. The one incident I will mention is what happened to me one weekend last when we were in Albany to play a rugby match and I was one of two black players on the day. At half-time, a young white boy, about four or five years old walked into the change room and looked at us. The opposition team were from a Port Elizabeth township. They were in the change room opposite ours. We start joking around with the youngster since he is here. He looked at me and pointed to the other change and uttered “you must go there”, I just looked at him and laughed. He said it again with a little bit more conviction, “you must!” he repeated. I took it lightly because he did not know any better. The guys also just checked to see if I wasn’t offended, and I told them I wasn’t. The truth about it is, something like that sticks to you for the rest of your life, then the question comes to my mind: How are we going to move forward if we keep moving two steps back? The reality is that it will not happen any time soon, despite it being 14 years later. This just reminds me of a line from Kanye West’s song Never Let Me Down, here he talks about how racism is still rife in America, but how it has been masked into the system there. The same can be said about this place. Most black students feel that there are still undertones wherever you go on campus, including the dining halls. As petty as this sounds, the times of when people eat there is a factor. Some view white people in some dining halls as them avoiding the noise and discord brought by the louder blacks. This is sad, but hopefully in future it will eventually disappear.

Hating on the Journ department!

Oh wow... this week has been unbelievable when it comes to Journ!!!!
First of all, when we approach our lecturers appealing to their humanity and sympathy and attempt to ask for the smallest extension, we get accused of being irresponsible students who don't place enough focus on our academics! Not only is that a blatant insult to each and every one of us who have not stopped working over the past two weeks, but it is also completely judgemental and unfairly generalised. Do you really think, Sim, that if we weren't dedicated to our studies we would still be here?
I find it offensive that the simple appeal for a day or two of extra time is immediately assumed to be rooted in a weekend of partying!!!

Time management is not anyone's strength, I can guarantee you that all those 'seniors' we look to for academic advice and guidance have spent many a night cramming in work due to irrational deadlines. Journ 1 is a demanding course, and we became aware of this right at the beginning of the year; but just because its students are expected to realise its large workload, does not mean that our lecturers now have the right to act as if it is our ONLY subject, because at the end of the day it is still only ONE out of FOUR other, equally challenging, courses.

This term's course has relied heavily on group work, which has only complicated the task of meeting deadlines! Nevertheless, I am proud to say that my group came together and worked incredibly hard in order to be able to compile and complete our photo comic by monday night.
Relieved that I had proven Sim wrong, and managed to meet his unfair deadline ahead of time, I began to work on my two essays for the week, as well as this Opinion piece for friday.

So, Philosophy essay completed by Tues afternoon, Soc tut essay almost done by Tues evening, Journ opinion piece half way done... Seems like the work's almost clearing up?
WRONG!!!!! Now, instead of spending Thurs to Sat working on perfecting my Journ 2 Application (which I feel should have been my most important and ONLY priority for this week) I have to start on 1000 words of a reflexive piece??????????

Sim, no disrespect to you as a lecturer, but as a person and an academic employee, you really should have taken more consideration about the demands of this course, what each piece wiould require and how long it takes to create work like a blog and comic, properly. Seriously, its the last week of the year and instead of catching up on unresovled issues, we are cramming 3 weeks worth or work into one week, which probably means instead of ending the year off with improved, pleasing results, we're going to pull down an entire semester's worth of work because of lousy planning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mean Girls meets Rhodes

Profile on a first year

Profile
By Persome Oliphant

Once upon a time there was a young lady called Nkateko Vera Khumalo. She came from the golden city Johannesburg, Gauteng. She has just matriculated and it is February 2008 and arrives at Rhodes University to start her adult life. Everything is exciting and new and she now has the freedom to express herself in any way she pleases. But as a naïve young girl she has no idea what’s coming her way.

It is still the first term and things are going smoothly for her. She has made new friends, she is adjusting to the lifestyle at Rhodes and most importantly she getting to know herself. After a couple of months reality hits her, that University is too much for her to cope with and admits she’s constantly faced with challenges including attending lectures everyday (or she might fall behind), trying to affiliate herself with the in crowd and other clicks because she is stereotyped a coconut. She accustomed to her new life of peacefulness and tranquillity in Grahamstown. Rhodes may seem like a undersized institution in a small city with no developments but many students get carried away and that’s how Nkateko felt, till she realised that there many distractions and negative influences she’s exposed to such as sex, drugs, alcohol, not attending lectures and tutorials. But she says that she has not rebelled and has actually calmed down but she also took things for granted especially her school work and her June exam results confirm that, this was one of her biggest lows for the year. Her other shortcoming or low is that she is constantly homesick, that to this day, the 2 October 2008, she still misses home terribly.

She never thought that she would make it through the year, till she met her boyfriend, Luthando. She was very uncertain about him because he was older than her and was finishing his degree. She decided to give it a chance at love and this could be one of her best choices she has made. When everything in her life seemed to be going down the drain he came, as a prince charming and rescued her. He advised her on coping with academics and the social life and this has influenced her in a positive way. She lays her left hand on her chest, close to her heart and says, “I’m so lucky to have him in my life, he’s a good guy and I’m grateful for the support, security and guidance he freely gives me”. She also confesses that having a boyfriend is not easy, but she relentlessly reminds herself why she is at University. With all the drama going on in her life she has managed to make the first girl’s basketball team at Rhodes and she is very pleased with herself. She is also putting effort into her school work, participating in class and tutorials and the results prove that.

Coming to Rhodes was a huge adjustment for her because she was a model in the big city of Johannesburg and saw bright lights flashing for her. Modelling if definitely still one of her passions and has decided to put that on hold for the next three years. This is one of the reasons she staying at the top and wants to become successful in everything she does. “I’m not really challenged with many private battles, she says, because I try to remain the young girl I was and adapt to the woman I want to be”. And now princess Nkateko lives happily ever after.

Carlie: a hero, who has adapted to change

Carlie sits crouched on the bed, her red-painted nails tapping lightly on the keyboard. Her big brown eyes stay glued to the screen, as she raises her hand to smooth down her messy hair. ”I’m excited, I have never been interviewed before”, she says yawning. It is a Saturday afternoon and Carlie has just woken up, from a late night out.
The Virgo, who lives with her mother and younger sister is described by her friends as “no nonsense, but friendly”, traded the big city life of Cape Town to study at Rhodes. “I came here because it is a small town, an experience I had never had before. Yes, I do miss the malls and beach in Cape Town, but I wanted to live the Rhodes life”, she adds with a broad smile on her face.
Carlie’s self- assured nature resonates when she says it was not difficult for her to adapt to life away from home. “It is necessary to adapt if you want to survive, not only are you here to learn but you are also here to develop who you are”. She adds that adapting to her means being happy and comfortable in one’s own life.
The motor mouth surprisingly takes a while to answer, when I ask her to describe herself. She sits, tracing her fingers on the cover of her book and finally adds that she is open minded, reliable but critical and very analytical, “ I think far too much” she adds laughing.

Carlie is the stereotypical cool calm and collected Capetonian, but one with substance and insight. She is a Psychology student, and her love for the profession is evident in her being awarded the “Most likely to be the next Dr. Phil award” in high school, while also being involved with the university’s peer counselling programme as a counsellor. Looking around her tidy room I notice a series of Dr Phil books, placed on her shelf. “I love Dr. Phil; she says loudly.” He has simple straightforward strategies and provides simplistic solutions, which the ordinary individual can understand”. Carlie expresses that she is also that [straightforward] type of person, but admits this can often get her in trouble. She states with conviction in her voice, “I’m honest; I tell things as they are, some people do not like that, but I would rather tell you the truth than tell you what you want to hear”.
She adds however that theses strong traits have not hindered her from building friendships. “I find it easy to make friends; but I would prefer having three real friends than 20 superficial “friends”, who will probably talk about you behind your back.” She adds, moving around on her bed, bright pink blanket draped over her broad shoulders.

“Confident Carlie”, as her neighbour Nolwazi has dubbed her, is a self professed daddy’s girl. She describes her dad as her friend and she adds that he along with her best friend, Shannon, are the people she calls on when she is feeling down. “I’m not down very often though”, she adds laughing, downloading movies off DC, peer counselling, and going to the dam with her friends are what keep her happy all the time. “I generally have not had any significant low moments, she says with certainty. “I choose to see the challenges I am met with as little obstacles and not catastrophes. If see things negatively I will attract negative things”.
The 2007 Pinelands High School matriculant was a peer monitor and continues to be the agony aunt of her Margaret Smith residence.“People often come to me for advice, and I enjoy being that rock for people who may need some direction”. It is with these characteristic that Carlie says she has survived. “I have adapted and survived first year because I wanted to. I survive because of my mind, I know it is not easy but I did not give myself any other option but to” [survive].
Our meeting is ended by her sudden dry cough attack, until she adds breathlessly that “Change is necessary, nothing stays the same.”

Commenting on another students profile

I commented on Chwayitisa Nandisa Futshane’s profile, who was interviewed by Brad Janssen, www.takinglifeseriously.blogspot.com.
An ambitious, confident student is the hero. The move to Grahamstown and getting on to the station RMR, are seen as, what folkist Propp, would call villains. This tells me that these were issues that were very important for her to achieve and overcome.
The writer is not hostile, but rather seems to have gotten to know the hero, even letting out that she wants to marry Lewis Hamilton one day- something that probably not many people may know about Chwayitisa. This shows that the writer formed a trust. The writer makes use of some of Propps character functions and these move the profile along, because we are initially introduced to the character, we see what her villains were and at the end we see that she has made an achievement.

commeting on another students letter to to younger self

The letter that I will be commenting on, is that of Fa of the " Confessions of a crazy couch potatoe" blog.

Fa's letter focuses on the 'drinking culture' at Rhodes, and pressures from friends. She also makes reference to the point of relationships, warning her younger self to be weary of males who are out to build a reputation by "spreading their seed's."

Fa's letter and my letter have many commonalities. Our approaches are similar in that we both give warning to our younger selves in an amiable and advicing manner, not authoratitively. My letter spoke of making sure that my younger self finds a group of friends who she can be herself with ,and Fa reiterates this point by advising her younger self to resist the temptation of being dragged into the partying lifestyle just because her new friends are doing so.

I think that Fa could have made more mention of her younger self's character. However I do feel that the letter is well written and provides essential advice to prospective First Years.

The truth about first year - death, lonliness, heartache and loss...

Ok, so I'm totally against this whole blogging thing for Journ... I don't think we can be accurately examined on it, and I don’t think our personal thoughts and opinions should be marked! But anyway, I decided that I'd give in to this demand anyway, and tell my first year story...
After the first 2 or 3 weeks of first term I realised that while nothing was idyllic or perfect here in G-town, it was still going to be a year which would create a life for me, unlike any I had imagined. And at that point of realisation I was beginning to bask in the summers days spent on the lawns, nights out with new and fun friends and nights in, grasping the newfound immensity of late-night work sessions. But at that point of realisation it all came crashing down on me like a wave that had been building up for the 18 years that had been my life so far...

On the 20th of February, a Wednesday, I got up to get ready for my 8:40 Journ lecture, as usual. And then my cell phone rang, which caught me off guard, seeing as I'd already spoken to my mom for the day. The name flashing on my screen was a good friend from high school - Melissa. Strange, I thought to myself, but I still looked forward to hearing a familiar voice!
"Gerry, I'm so sorry I'm calling you so early. It's just that, um, I have to, uh... Kyle, Kyle van Heerden. Georgie saw him on Monday, he came to visit. Last night he was out... The car crashed. He broke his neck instantly. He's dead."
It felt like it had taken Mel hours to finish that sentence, but in the few actual seconds it had taken, my life was ripped away from me. Kyle was not the first person I had known to die, but he was the closest. The only family I had ever lost I'd either never known or was too young to have to deal with their deaths properly.
And then this happened. And I was alone. In a new and vastly strange city. No family. No friends who had known Kyle like I had. Nothing...
But as usual life went on, and each day I managed to cry a little less, I managed to sleep a little more, and I managed to put the pain away into a little box in my heart.

On the 14th of May, a Wednesday, I'd gone to my Journ lecture and was wrapping up with my English one. As I picked up my bag to pack away notes, I felt my cellphone vibrating. Thinking it'd be a message from Mom, I casually opened the sms. It wasn't Mom, it was one of my best friends from school - Zenia. Being used to her random messages reminding me that she loves and misses me, I couldn't quite figure out why all she had said was "Hey my girl... Are you ok?" So I replied, said I was just fine, looking forward to my plans for later that night, but still missing her lots!
Three minutes later she was phoning me, and seeing as I was about to walk out of EG Red's doors I eagerly took the call, looking forward to a catch up session...
"Gezzie my girl, I'm so sorry I have to phone you for this. There was an accident last night. Jords Graham was driving home with Matt from Ruby's. They took a corner too quickly, the car rolled. They didn't make it. Gezzie, Jords is gone. I’m so sorry... Are you going to be ok? I love you so much"

So, it had been four months. And in the first of those four, February, I lost a very good friend and a long-time crush to a car crash. In the third of those four, April, two more of my very good friends wrote their cars off... They survived, thank God. And then the fourth month, and one of the best friends I'd had since grade 11 was taken by another car crash.
And you're thinking that must have been the battle life had wanted me to fight for 2008? Wrong!

My family has always loved animals, and I have never lived in a quiet home thanks to a bird and three amazing dogs. But, turned out that God wanted them too. My bird died of old age during June exams. And then I had to return home in September vac to only one puppy, lonely and depressed after having her 'big brother' put down a few weeks earlier.
While the loss of pets may seem insignificant to some, having only one furry companion and no solace in talking to my little birdie on my shoulder, made life at home seem unrealistic and surreal to me. As if I'd come home to my family, but to the wrong house, at the wrong time, in a completely different place to what had been my 'home'.
Through these personal hardships, I had learned to cope with sorrow and loneliness away from home, without the support of long-time friends and my family.

But I have also had my fair share of troubles here at Rhodes... I applied for a post on RMR, twice. I made it through to the interview stages, twice. I got intimidated, mocked and grilled by the panel, twice. And i got rejected by the station, twice.
All my life I saw myself working on radio, and now for the first time I could go out there and grab a chance to make this dream reality... And I didn't make it. I wasn't what they wanted. My dream was still on hold...
So again, I had to pull myself together, find new reasons to wake up each morning and move on to something else in search of happiness and success.

This term, fourth term, the end. I was convinced that I was entering this term with me, myself and my life as my one and only priority! I was going to work hard, I was going to party how I wanted and when I wanted, I was going to apply and make it onto House Comm for 2009, I was going to study hard and I was going to pass first year and lavish in a well-deserved two month holiday!!!
No, I didn't make it onto House Comm. No, my marks haven't been that great so far. No, I don't think exams are going to be as ok as I had hoped for.

And still it goes on. Last week I lost another good friend, this time to a drug overdose. He overdosed in the early hours of Wednesday morning, and on Saturday I found out that he is now permanently brain damaged. He's never coming back to Rhodes, or any varsity for that matter. He's never going to be able to live a normal life. He's never going to be ok.


So Sim, Alette... you wanted us to find heroes and survivors of first year? Well I think that each and every single one of us has survived our own version of hell-on-earth this year. And I think that every single one of you fellow first year students should stop to take a moment to realise that amongst the greatness of this past year, you have fought many a battle and made it through!
So congratu-*******-lations, no-one will ever understand the extent of first year troubles and just how hard it can get at times for any of us. So far, we've all made it!
Now we just gotta tackle these damn exam papers..................

Survivor story

Tale of a Survivor
By Mnikelo Ndlovu
Break ups, to family trouble, right down to life away from home. You name it, she has gone through it. “This year has been a rollercoaster ride” in her own words...” As with any 18-year old coming to varsity, and in most cases moving away from home for the first time, there is a sense of naivety and innocence. This then is also part of the beauty of the whole varsity experience, much like a duck going for its first swim. In thus piece, I shall chronicle her path through her year, and how she managed to navigate it as well as face and overcome all the obstacles she has so far this year.
Alluding to that naivety of post high school life, Vivi G (as I affectionately call her) was your typical straight-A student oozing ambition and confidence after matric. This translated to her having a pre-conceived is idea of what to expect from university. She found things were going her way in the beginning, meaning socially and academically the adjustment was great for her. Unfortunately for her, nothing could prepare her for what second term 2008 had in store for her. In this one of her low times in the year, the usual feelings of homesickness came to the fore with her. “There was a stage whereby I was constantly going home” she said, and it was easy for her, with home being in King William’s Town. “...not because I just missed home, but because I wanted to get away from here...” she added. All of this was accompanied by a bout of depression, “kwaku late ngam jo” which translates to it was too late for me. She used this slang phrase to refer to how this time was for her. The situation was so bad; she was even seeing a counsellor for a fair amount of time. No one knew about this. Her strong will and bubbly character have helped her hide this quite well. She never let it affect her academically either, which is testament to her survivor instincts.
As if that was not enough for one to handle in their first semester of varsity, she then went home for the vac, to face more trouble. What happened to her was that she broke up with her steady boyfriend of over a year three days after she got home. A time that is supposed to be spent relaxing and reflecting on how varsity has been to this point, was marred by this. “I was devastated I won’t lie...” she said. She tried to get over it, in doing this, the healing was not pretty. Third term came, and it is infamously know as O-Term for a reason, Vivi was going to find out in a big way. She partied hard, and that was not a pretty sight, even by her own admission. “I saw this as part of a healing process for me after my break-up” she said. “At this point I did not care about myself or anything at all” she added. This was by far the lowest point in her year. She also at this stage came to the realisation that she shall no longer pursue a career in Journalism, but rather continue with Law. What a shame and loss to the media world. Family life was also a major factor in her year as well, with her seeing the events of this past year at home as helping her grow in a major way, like learning to be a better big sister to her two siblings. Another major thing was how friends affected her, and how she affected them. She is very grateful to them for helping in her growth as a person in the past year.
She often says that:”one highlight for me this year has been the lessons I’ve learned and not any particular event.” This is also part of what made her story so appealing to me, especially so because I too am her friend, and can see the growth she has gone through. “This year has been a learning curve for me, and I believe I have become a better, wiser, stronger person. Due to the obstacles I managed to overcome.” These are true characteristics of a survivor, and she acknowledges the Lord’s presence to her strength for this year as well. All I can say in closing about her is wow, so much in such a short time, strength in abundance.

Profile Article - Angie Thorne

Angelique Thorne took the same momentous step as many other first years when she decided to leave home and study at Rhodes. Leaving a family behind is never an easy task, even if it is in pursuit of a dream, and it is made even harder if the family you’re apart of is so close, you consider yourselves inseparable. This was the case with the Thorne family, and now as her first year comes to an end, it is obvious that “daddy’s little girl, mommy’s sweet angel” has managed to grow into her own person while preserving her roles as big sister and daughter.

Angie is brave enough to admit that coming to Rhodes was not a clear-cut decision. She juggled with career options and the consequences of leaving home before she made any final decisions and realised it was time to “leave the nest and enter into the independence of adulthood”. So far, the move has proven to be a positive one, despite all the difficulties Angie has had to face this year because “moving away from home has taught [her] so much about life, the person [she is] and the one [she plans] to become.”

Amongst the learning curbs of finding oneself, a family is likely to be the only support system you can count on to remain encouraging amidst the doubt of first year at university. How did the distance affect a daughter and sister like Angie if “keeping in contact on a daily basis was a mutual decision from both sides, so as to remain a big part of each others lives”? After all, she is a Drama student whose life regularly gets lost to rehearsals and practicals. “Often, quick 5 minute phone calls or random sms’s just have to suffice” just as long as they know what’s going on in each others’ lives.

However, these quick catch-up sessions did not manage to fill the void of leaving behind Bryan, Angie’s 10-year old brother. “We’ve always shared an indescribable bond… He’s the one person I would give up my life for, and not being there for all the ‘first-time’ experiences in his life, somehow makes me feel disconnected from him.” Despite the efficiency of technology, the freedom to call on a big sister whenever help is needed, it still seems that the deeply personal part of their relationship is being lost when Angie isn’t there for important photographs or personal achievements. Even though Bryan may not always understanding why his sister has gone, he still admires and respects her for following her dream and this undeniable support has played a big part in Angie having made it this far.


On a lighter note, Angie excitedly brings up her boyfriend – Jon. As a couple, they met at the beginning of their first year and despite all odds have kept the relationship strong for the past eight months. “On many occasions he has been the one to catch me when I fell and found the strength in me I always knew I had”. As she continues talking about the time they’ve spent together and how they’ve grown as individuals, I realise that he has had the most distinctive role in helping Angie adapt to life here at Rhodes.

“Although there have been many ‘ups and downs’ along the way, one thing has remained constant– I’ve stayed true to myself.” And this battle, fighting to combine who you’ve always been, who you hope to grow into and who the world wants you to be, is the hardest one of them all. Having made it through a first year at university, Angie will confirm that there will always be external forces pushing your boundaries, tempting you to change yourself and what you stand for, as you pursue the approval and friendship of your fellow Rhodents.
So how does Angie know that she’s managed to win this battle for herself? “I still have my personal morals and values grounded within me, regardless of the obstacles and challenges I’ve had to overcome whilst adapting to my new found way of life.”




Angelique’s blog: http://www.blogger.com/profile/07965020006347699871
Angelique’s facebook profile: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=536843012&ref=ts

Flavour for survival

Hello my innocent friend

You have come to an important time in your life, whereby you’re choosing what path you are going to follow from here on out. Your road starts here at Rhodes; hopefully you will get to where you are going. There will be lots of good times ahead for you, but don’t get caught up in all the fun that your new found freedom has to offer. It is often said that with great power comes great responsibility. Academically as well, you must be sure of what you want to do, because you don’t to chop and change courses and degrees during your time here. You must enjoy what you’re studying.
With all the seriousness having been said, you will also meet a lot of new people, be it in res should you live there, or in your digs. This is also what fun in this place is about. Lifelong bonds are made here. It’s that you get that sense of belonging to a community, unlike most of these bigger institutions. Should you happen to want to drink, you have heard from family and other people who are here about the university’s drinking reputation. This is true, and indeed part of the Rhodes student culture, just know that a pint of beer every now and then is not a bad thing, but should you have too much then you are on the road to being an alcoholic. I can tell you that the morning after is never cool, and last year there were quite a few of those for your boet over here. That then is not why your parents and/or sponsors gave so much money for you to come here. Have a belter of an O-week broer.

No seal-clubbing there neh. Party hard, work harder.
Your big boy, Mnix.

A letter to my younger self

A letter to my younger self

Dear friend I am writing you this letter, to let you know more about university life. University years are some of the best years that you may experience but there is more involved than you can imagine. Coming to university may sound like so much fun and it is because you are away from your parents or guardians and not only have the freedom to do as you please but also the responsibility. There are many aspects of university life that you should be aware of such as socially, culturally and most importantly academically. The most important aspect of coming to university is of course your academic work. You should never take it for granted because you will fall through the cracks. Also if you choose subjects make sure that it is what you want to do and that you stayed committed, you will get to know the library very well. If you do mess up, remember that university is your stage to make mistakes so that when you are an adult you do not repeat regrettable mistakes. Once you come to university you will explore and experience an advanced world. You should definitely have fun but remember that there are many challenges you will be faced with including boys, peer pressure, drugs and alcohol and that you must be cautious. There are so many exciting aspects of university life such Trivarsity, joining societies to keep you busy and if you are in residence then there will be balls, cocktail parties and all sorts of entertainment. However there is a sad reality of break-ins, mobbing and date rapes but if you take care of yourself and walk with friends you are almost guaranteed to be safe. One last thing have fun, do your work and this is the time to learn more about you, so do not let anyone mess it up for you. Have a pleasurable time and enjoy o-week. Yours sincerely Persome Oliphant

Letter to my younger self

Dear my apprehensive younger self

Coming to university has been an incredible journey to say the least.Incredible in the sense that it has opened my eyes up to a world, that I was obviously unfamiliar with, a world that has certain alarming elements, unbeknownst to someone who is yet to come to university.

Some of these elements or obstacles,include making friends or rather finging that group of people you feel comfortable with, much like the group of friends you had at school. A group of people who would laugh with you, and not at you, and a group of people who would not belittle you and find the fact that you try to maintain a good work ethic, a joking matter.
A group of people who would not make you doubt yourself but rather encourage you, and not make you feel like a loser if you don't go out to Equlibrium every night.
You know it's funny; people always go on and on about university, about the "good times" and parties. Granted there are a lot of these, people also say that you will make "tons of friends". As I said the first two ring true but making friends is not that easy. I know that you are a friendly and sociable person by nature, but what you may find at university is that making real friends becomes a task. It is so sad to see people losing themselves and conforming to 'systems', systems that they do not know, systems that they feel they should be a part of so that they can be cool.
'Cultures' such as the excessive usage of alcohol are plenty.
"ok lets go out and get totally wasted tonight" is a line you will hear more often than not. Do not misunderstand what I am saying; I am all for going out, neither am I anti-alcohol but I don't think that alcohol is necessary for you to have a good time. Surely the whole point of you going out and having those much spoken about good times, is for you to remember them?
I am not preaching to you at all, I just do not want you to disappoint yourself by losing yourself because you think that you have to fit in. I am just opening up your eyes to the fact that at times, making friends may not be that easy to do.
University does come with its pro's and con's, as do most things in life and it is good to be aware of these so that you are not a complete and utter wreck if you have not made friends, not acquaintances but friends, and there is a huge difference between the two.

I am not trying to scare you, university is an awesome place to learn and experience life. Thise is advice that I am offering, based on issues that you may or may not be faced with.
;)

A Letter to Young Naivety

To a young version of naivety,

The envelope of this letter said it was to be opened only at 20:00 on a Thursday evening. And if you’re reading this then it means that time has come… and I know exactly what it is you are settling down to do right now – watch the latest episode of One Tree Hill, right? And while you watch the scenes of this fictional plot, you can’t help but relate their lives to your own. I know that you do this because I used to do exactly the same.
However, I am writing this in the hope of shedding some light on the future that awaits you at Rhodes University. I want you to know that during your first year, you will probably have to cope with how easily your expectations can change and how often disappointments can arise because I know that you are full of hope, hope that all your dreams are about to start coming true!

The reality is that yes, you are going to have an amazing life down in Grahamstown, you really will be blessed with more than heart could ever desire! But, your first year at university is still going to be a year of difficulty and hard work. With all the blessings, you will also have to face setbacks in many aspects of life. Your social life will be the greatest party all year round, and you will meet people who will become the type of friends you keep for life. Your academic studies will open your mind and challenge any preconceptions you have about society. All the good and bad days that have already formed your life will be nothing compared to the experiences you’ll find here!

But it won’t always be easy. At times it will seem as though for the first time in your life, you have lost your way too far to come back. And while this is scarier than can be imagined, the strength you gain while finding your way back, will be the strength you’ll rely on for the rest of life’s obstacles. This strength will give you unbreakable faith in yourself, what you stand for and how you fight for your dreams.

But for now, enjoy you favourite TV show, you’ll love downloading it from DC++ next year! I wanted you to read this before you watched because of the following quote from One Tree Hill… Rewrite it, stick it on your mirror and live each and every day by it ok!? Great=)

“Make a wish and place it in your heart. Anything you want, everything you want. Do you have it? Good. Now believe it can come true. You never know where the next miracle is gonna come from, the next smile, the next wish come true. But if you believe that it's right around the corner, and you open your heart and mind to the possibility of it, to the certainty of it… You just might get the thing you're wishing for. The world is full of magic. You just have to believe in it. So make your wish. Do you have it? Good. Now believe in it. With all your heart.”