December 1, 2011
Plus 40 & OnCampus

I am writing this on the last day of classes. I only have to attend English class today because my Spanish class has already ended. Señor Colina is having only students who need to figure out their final grades come to class. I have gotten As on all tests, so I know I am receiving an A.

Our final assignment in English was to read the play “Trifles” by Susan Glaspell. Our final exam next Monday will be on drama, the last genre in our program of study. During this section, we’ve read “Oedipus,” “A Doll’s House” and “The Glass Menagerie.” I really did not think I would enjoy reading plays on my own time; however, it has been a pleasure in class. The discussions we have following each reading assignment are very interesting and informative, and I am coming out of that class with a better understanding of writing in general, as well as a better ability to analyze fiction. I have enjoyed this class.

The elephant in the room is, of course, history! I ended up with a 74 on my last history exam, which is 10 points lower than the previous one. I am happy to have made a C on it. We were informed by the instructor that he will be grading on a curve because everyone in the class has been challenged.  I’m relieved I’m not the only one! I have an exam to be done by Sunday night on the last four chapters and a final exam to be completed by next Friday, so I have my work cut out for me this and next week. Can’t wait until it’s over!

It seems like only yesterday it was hot out and I was just starting the semester. Now I’m planning for the spring semester, and it’s cold out!  I’m making it easier on myself next semester. I have signed up for Spanish II, which meets twice a week from 2 to 4 p.m., and Political Science online. My co-worker will be lending me her book for Political Science, and I will be using the same book for Spanish II that I used in Spanish I. Therefore, I won’t have to spend big money on books. I know I will have to bite the bullet some day and get back into a math class, but I’m surely not anxious for that! It is a requirement, however, so it will have to be faced at some point.  I have all the time in the world, and I’m in no hurry.

If I pass all my courses by the end of next semester, I will only need 18 credits to obtain my Associate in Arts degree. I began this journey needing 65, so I have made great progress. At this rate, I should achieve my goal in 2013, if not sooner. I don’t think taking three years for a two-year degree is too bad when someone is working full time.

The SGA had a Christmas party for students the other day, and it was fun. There were wonderful cookies, little sandwiches, cheese and crackers and punch. I had the opportunity to sit and talk with my former psychology instructor, and we had a nice conversation. The social affairs for students at NETC are fun when they are planned.

I wish you all a peaceful holiday season and expect to “see” you again in January. Thank you for reading my little column during the past year and have a wonderful 2012!

Karolyn Tredeau, 64 of Ruby, entered college after taking a 40-year hiatus from formal education. She is a student at Northeastern Technical College and will write about her experiences in this column, “Plus40 & OnCampus” once a month. Karolyn can be reached at karolynt@shtc.net.

Read Karolyn's November column.