Laura's Corner

Attending a higher education, one might feel as if they can expect high school characteristics to fall to the wayside, if even for 3 hours a week.

Beginning my 4^th semester at Milwaukee Area Technical College was slightly nerve-wracking.   The decision to attend 3 night classes had not been taken lightly.  Development Psychology, something which intrigues me, was an exciting venture.  Elements of Speech bring me a little nervousness.  Standing in front of a class to give a presentation always brings my heart to beat slightly faster.  Intro to Human Services allows me to begin the path towards my final degree.  No, I was not forced into these classes, they were carefully chosen by me.  Sure, a classmate I consider a close friend might have had a slight impact, but won’t allow her to take the fall this time. 

Previous semesters were taken within the West Allis MATC campus.  For the most part, it is orderly, yet occasionally things become disruptive.  The use of electronic devices is overwhelming.  Texting, computers, the rare yet never challenged cell phone conversation occurs within each classroom.  Regardless of these activities, I have maintained 3.5 GPA.  The teachers have intervened when necessary and have taken steps to ensure the class is overall orderly.

Until now. 

Last night I find a seat towards the back of the class.  The teacher mentions me sitting so far away, so I move up a couple of rows.  This is a small class, somewhat similar to the detention room you would see in a teen movie.  Thirty seats are scattered throughout, leaving very little room for error.  In walks a woman, older than myself.  She seems pleasant and is dressed within reason.  Within minutes, I hear it, “That (blank) has to go to the (blanking) (blank).”  Honestly, I use curse words occasionally, but not 6 in one sentence, nor during a 10 minute conversation.  She is speaking into her cell phone, her caller on the speaker.  His voice is barely audible, yet audible enough.  It goes on, and on, until I turn around and she puts her phone down.  This continues throughout the entire class. When she is not on her phone, she is mumbling under her breath.  Holding a conversation with the neighbor to her left, she picks up her phone once again stating, “Oh I really should start this (blanking) work.” 

Was I ticked, yes, yet in a classroom where I was outweighed, I refrained.  It took about a million thoughts, ideas and words of encouragement within myself to “just wait, hold on, talk to the teacher” after class.  You know what I mean.

Listen up, MATC, I served in the United States Military.  This allows me the chance to attend college.  I chose yours because it came highly recommended by other students and co-workers.  I work full time, raise my children, and leave them to attend your campuses 3 nights a week.  In lieu of attending a UW campus, I chose you. 

I am not within the walls of your school to hear foul language.  Take a look at my grades.  Straight A’s except for that darned B- I received in Microeconomics.  I attend class, take my work very seriously and plan on being an honor roll student.  I have a goal and it is my lifelong dream to walk across that stage.  No, I am not referring to the Miss America Pageant, although I do believe I would take the crown.  Just knowing my daughters will be present to see their mother grab hold of her diploma gives me chills. 

For everyone else in attendance, let me speak on their behalf as well.  Some of us actually pay out of pocket for our education.  Some receive financial aid.  Whatever the source of payment, we expect the following

A.      To receive the promised instruction per the curriculum. 

B.      To have an environment free of hostility.

C.      To have a classroom free of electronic devices.

D.      We have the right to report disruptive students and they will be taken care of immediately.

E.       Those that disturb the class will be removed and given an absent mark.

F.       After two removals, the student will be asked to refrain from continuing the class.

G.      After removal, they will receive an F and will not be allowed to repeat the class for two semesters.

H.      For those that receive financial aid, if they are removed from class, they will pay back whatever financial aid was used for that particular class. 

Need I say more?

For whatever its worth, I believe I have had amazing instructors and have also received an excellent education.  Taking steps to ensure a peaceful environment will ensure many more who desire the same as I.  If you fail to assess the situation, you are not only failing us, but future students, you own children and your grandchildren as well.

To all other students who “get it”, you are welcome!