Hello, Jupiter!

You simply can't believe how fun-packed my weekend was! On Friday night, the physics department held this really cool astronomy observatory on the roof of Valders Building (where we have the physics laboratories). The whole place was dark, and about six telescopes were set up and focussed on the stars in the sky. In one of the telescopes was a star cluster in our galaxy. It was amazing. I was able to see a star about to have a supernova. Clustered around it was a mass of gas forming the shape of a doughnut. However, most interesting of all was the view of Jupiter. It seemed so real and close to me, almost as if I could touch it. It was big and yellow, and had some black bands across its center. I really had a wonderful time because it's experiences like this that keep one going through all the frustration of resolving complex tension forces in my physics class.

Speaking of classes, it's fascinating how much students contribute in class. In my Paideia class, for example, we actually spend a lot of time debating about the book. Everyone has an opportunity to say what he thinks, and the professor doesn't simply walk to the front of the class to give us 'lectures.' This helps a lot because it actually reinforces the ideas in your mind and makes you recognize various possible interpretations of the text. I've also realized that the professors are actually very happy when you ask questions about things you don't understand. If you have a paper or homework set due, or you are confused about a concept, there's absolutely no need to hesitate to ask your professor for help. He'll explain the concept until it's pellucid.

On Saturday morning, the Ylvi Hall Council carried out its first assignment - representing Ylvi for the homecoming parade. Instead of just walking through the parade like everyone else, we biked in a diamond formation [I was in front]. It was particularly interesting when we would leave the formation, go in circles and chuck candy at kids. We also had a really good cheer. Although it ended up being a bit tiring (with all the screaming and biking), the parade was quite interesting. Right after the parade, I went to the diversity center for a small 'dance party' with snacks, drinks and good Nigerian music [it actually made me feel nostalgic].

On Sunday, Blessing and I (the Nigerian students at Luther) were invited to attend a catholic church 15 minutes away from Decorah. The church runs a mission that assists orphans in Nigeria and so contacted the Luther Diversity Center to find out if they would be able to discuss with the Nigerian students. We gladly attended the church service and made ourselves available to talk to them about our country during the post-service tea. They asked us lots of questions ranging from the cultural values to the types of fish eaten in Nigeria! It felt very good sharing my culture with them and offering the help that I could offer to their noble cause.

Thinking about my life at Luther so far, I think I can confidently say it's the kind of college experience I've always desired. I've always dreamed of attending a school that would not only have a strong academic program but also increase my intellectual curiosity and expose me to the diversity of cultures, ethics, and views - learning that goes far beyond the classroom. I'm glad I chose Luther because, in just one month since I got here, I'm beginning to think deeply about complex issues of life that never even crossed my mind before. That, I believe, is a proof of the holistic educational program available here at Luther. Thanks for reading my blog...

Have a great day!

-Opeoluwa