It is my firm belief that the life of a college or university depends upon its alumni; they shape an institution's reputation and success, and provide the greatest example of what it means to be a part of said college/university. With this in mind, I came up with several questions and found one central, overarching theme: Change. I'd like to know more about the experiences of alumni then, and their experiences and reflections of now. Thus, I propose "Then and Now" with several minor/inclusive themes.
Then and Now
The Buzz and the Hullabaloo: some people would assert that college is the time be radical and have political opinions, to stand up (or sit down) for something. Is this generally true? Are people more likely to have been politically active during college then later in life?
-What was happening in the world/nation/state/city/university while you were a student? Were there radical movements afoot? If so (or, if not!) how did the campus, specifically your peers, react?
-How politically or socially active were you as a student? Do you feel you are more affected and passionate about politics now or not? Do you think college/university should be a venue for political activity?
Quality versus Quantity: higher education is frequently making headlines about size and length of study. How has the growth of the University of Houston affected the learning knowledge, job opportunities, and overall life? Has the UH experience been optimal?
-How many years did you spend in university, and what did you study? If longer than the recommended four years, why? How did that affect you at the time, and now?
-What does higher education mean to you? Why did you choose to attend the University of Houston?
Chewing the Fat: the most memorable and affecting stories are just that- stories. What pops to mind when alumni think of their days in college?
-What is your favorite memory from college/university?
-Are you still in contact with your college/university friends?
-What was your social life like during college/university?
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ReplyDeleteI like the first idea very much. I was VERY politically active on campus at my undergrad institution, but just haven't had the time to commit to organizations or campaigns since--not to mention, political views aren't always acceptable at work. What a shame..... :)
ReplyDeleteI agree with Stephanie, I love the political activity part, which could also tie into larger issues such as race, diversity, or gender. My favorite is the last one. I believe when interviewing people, it is essential to give them a chance to add whatever they think is important. Whatever themes we choose as a class, I think we must all ask at the end for the interviewee to tell us what they think is important and why.
ReplyDelete"Chewing the Fat" is a heck of an idea. Getting people to re-live old memories is a good way to spark up a conversation that may lead down a path to where alumnae may remember an event that may be significant to the history of the university but lost to the main stream history books. I think this is one of those things that oral histories bring to the table when it comes to writing histories. There are just some things people will say when they "let their hair down" as opposed to what they might say in an old fashioned interview.
ReplyDeleteI've added your blog to the main blogroll and will add your themes to the notes from class. Do you mind if I put them where I think best?
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, please go right ahead!
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