Friday was the last day of regular classes for the winter term; final exams run next week. This is a period of intense performance, as projects of all kinds are due, and exam preparations are in high gear.
At its best, the end of a trimester is the healthy process of demonstrating skills gained, material mastered and general accomplishment.
In other words, we want academic pressure that is real, but balanced with a healthy lifestyle for optimal production.
The notion of "healthy" stress is a delicate matter. The Health Center reports that in February, we've treated 67 students with influenza or flu-like symptoms. Interestingly, of these, 28 (or 37%) have had a flu vaccination. This is a world history debate on relationships with the Congo in light of that country's struggle with ebola.
This is healthy stress:
This....I don't know....
Annie, a senior student leader of the Wellness Committee, is conducting an extensive research project on the nature, value and quantity of homework at Proctor. Employing separate survey instruments, she is processing and contrasting perspectives from students and faculty on the role of homework as an educational tool, as well as its impact on students in different grades and courses. WMUR-TV (Manchester) got wind of her work, and was on campus yesterday to interview her for a news segment.
Meanwhile, we forge ahead. In his Spanish class, Will (lower left) shares images and research on atrocities conducted against El Salvadoran peasants by military groups.
This is a closed weekend, meaning that all boarders are on campus in preparation for exams.
Lots of diversions (recreational for some...performance, for others) are offered: art shows, dance performance, music ensembles, the chorus, a Parent Association-sponsored skating party, etc.
And as we plunge into exam week, faculty and friends are offering a special "Tastes Of the World" food sampling party Monday afternoon.
It's all about balancing rest, recreation and work!
Hunter seeks balance in the lobby:
