Saturday, August 27, 2011

Ah, to be a Cougar...

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?


NB: "Digitize Me!"

NB: I'd like to (very) briefly explain why this blog is called "Digitize Me:" when I hear "digitize" or "digitalization" my mind immediately goes where, perhaps, "no one has gone before..." to the film Galaxy Quest (a Star Trek spoof). As it so happens in the film, the Captain's life is saved by "digitalization." Indicative? Perhaps not, but I believe as a public historian digital media may very well save the historical competencies of future generations. 

(I do highly recommend the film, just in case you haven't seen it.)