Tag Archives: learning

Learning While Old[er]

Profiling is an ugly thing. Back in January, I was asked for my ID at the Peabody Commons late one night when I went to get a snack because I didn’t fit the “typical student profile.” I know I was profiled because when I asked the guard if I was being profiled, she said, “I’m doing all that.” After filing a complaint, I haven’t seen her there again. It appears she’s “doing all that” somewhere else now.

It is frustrating and anger provoking to be treated that way. It is particularly anger provoking to be treated that way on the campus of a university where I have paid $43,000 a year to attend. Capitalism lesson: service and respect flows in the opposite direction that the money flows.

I am happy to report that this is the opposite treatment that I have received at Owen and from my fellow Owenites.

Now, what I’m about to say is going to shock most of my classmates. I know because of the way I act, the music I listen to, my warped sense of humor, and my rugged and youthful appearance, most assume that I am about 16 years old. I am actually 47. Yes. 4 and 7, 47.

Posted in Graduate Life, Guest & Alumni Bloggers, Why Owen? | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Independent Studies

Independent Studies are common here at Owen. The faculty and administration encourage them as they provide students with the practical experience of heading a project with little guidance—no better preparation for the “real world*.”

*The real world as in the actual world, not the formerly popular MTV reality series.

Why an independent study?

Academic Credits – Independent studies are a good choice if the course offering isn’t to your liking or use. I, for example, am foregoing the corporate world to seek work in the arts following graduation, so not all courses are practical. (“So the only thing left is Bond Markets…Independent study it is.”) This past mod, I designed an independent study for myself that aligned with my educational and occupational goals; professors are usually willing to cooperate as advisors once you show that your proposed study is applicable and has merit.

Posted in Graduate Life, Ravi Venkataramani '12, Why Owen? | Tagged , , | 1 Comment