Classroom resolutions for 2008

By Katie Powers

We're halfway through January, and Lord knows all of our New Year's resolutions have already failed. (I mean, how can you start losing weight the right way when you kicked off the New Year in a celebration of intoxication that needed to be topped off with a huge breakfast -- sausage, hash browns, eggs -- that you later regretted anyway?) At least for me, healthy and productive resolutions never seem to last.

But, I have a new idea for resolutions that will at least pertain to the purpose of our studies. No, no, nothing to do with chiseling away the extra 10 pounds or working on that drinking habit. I'm getting at the real purpose of our studies: classroom resolutions.

After a month-long break, both students and professors are prone to slacking in the classroom, and I think everyone needs a few reminders on how to make class less painful for everyone else.

First, for the students. My first resolution is for the select few of you who yell interruptions and try to finish what the professor is trying to say during lecture. Please stop.

I love class participation, but only when the time is right, like during discussions or when someone has a genuine question. However, when people interrupt without raising their hand, usually trying to finish what the professor is saying, it is completely annoying. Listen first, then ask or discuss later.

The next resolution relates to eating in class. I'll admit, it's hard to keep me away from a Benson sandwich I brought for a later lunch, so I understand if you need a few bites at the beginning of class, but eating throughout the entire class like it's a luncheon is rude. Also, there are appropriate snacks for class. If you need a few Cheerios to keep your energy up through a Tuesday/Thursday, that's fine, but pulling out a bag of kettle chips so the chomping sound of your eating can be heard by all is irritating and gross. Wise up!

Next, for the professors. We all love listening to you, really, but will you please give us a break during Tuesday/Thursday classes? About half of my professors of longer classes give breaks, but half do not. A short break gives us time to dissect and gives you time to breathe. Then at least all those hungry kids can eat, and the interrupters can have the one-on-one conversation with you that they pretend they were having in a class of 30.

Lastly, dear professors, please notice when you go over the end of class (and continue), because we only have 10-minute passing periods.

These resolutions are just some of my critiques; I'm sure you have your own. But just remember, even if we can't improve our own minds and bodies year after year, at least we can do a favor to everyone else in our classes and not be so annoying.