Week one

Transcript

I've just finished my first week of classes for this academic year. What an exhausting week! There is a lot of confusion. Many students drop in for advice, and there are hundreds of little problems. Suddenly the hallways fill with students, teachers, and administrative staff. Everyone dashes around in a great hurry.

At the same time, nearly everyone here is very friendly. Many of us greet each other and even have quick micro-conversations as we rush by each other in opposite directions.

First class meetings are challenging. As we meet our students in class for the first time, they are busy trying to get adjusted. Freshmen are a little nervous, but other students are excited about meeting their friends again. Lecture rooms are filled with the sounds of happy young people greeting each other and swapping stories about Spring Vacation.

This year the weather has been nice, and two big cherry trees at our main gate are in full bloom. Many students pause to take photos of each other under the cherry blossoms.

Urban life changes in April. Trains, subways, and buses once again become crowded with students, and young people are everywhere. Teachers and staff become conspicuous in public. Anywhere in the Kansai area a young woman may smile and nod her head in a little bow. It's nice to be recognized, but there is little privacy. Last night I stopped to grab a quick hamburger on my way home, and three students greeted me as I entered the MacDonald's near the university.

The beginning of each new school year always reminds me that I chose my profession well. It's confusing and sometimes frustrating, but the friendly, positive atmosphere on campus is wonderful. Every time I walk into a classroom I feel a surge of energy when I see so many smiling faces.

At the end of the first week I'm too tired to think. But after a weekend to recover, I'll be ready for more on Monday morning.