Think back to our first excursion. Based on what you observed, write about what you observed that you ma y have not noticed before. What can you tell about the people who use the space you observed?How does this new awareness cause you to view the space and the people who use this space?
Make sure you are incorporating class discussions and relevant readings along with your understanding of the intentional function of this space.
Jessi Gould
ReplyDeleteIn my small dark corner that I was sitting, pictured above, I noticed only a few unexpected occurrences. As I sat I noticed the squirrels who ran in circles chasing each other up the tree with ease, but as soon as a foot step was heard they would freeze as if no one would be able to see them. They found the soda machines to bright and magical and I greatly admired the simplicity of their lives. When a girl exited the union eating Pollo, not exactly a breakfast choice, wearing heels it especially shocked the petite squirrels. I was surprised a girl would be wearing heels with the mass amount of walking I do every day on this campus requiring intense balance. Straggling closely behind I quickly noticed a young man on crutches and I felt much pity for him having to maneuver the stairs and long treks across campus not choosing to be in discomfort clearly. As soon as each person would pass it was as if the music started playing in musical chairs and the squirrels would continue their cheerful games. They almost gave me a guided tour of the union moving from the news stand to the artistic graffiti on the wall to escaping a moving car in the round about. Mostly in the union though I just watched students similar to I hurry to class using Olgesby as a shortcut to class. Small, tall, white, black, everyone seemed to have the same hurried, tired intent a very different one than squirrels. Today I admired two baby twin squirrels playing in the same way I witnessed in the Union and it made me remember.
Chris Davis
ReplyDeleteI sat out in the courtyard on one of the tables. There were a few of my other classmates there with me, spread out over the area, sitting and observing at other various tables. I sat down and had no idea to where to start. The whole area was bustling with activity. Maybe the busiest place in all of campus in the morning is Einstein Bagel Bros. The line is constantly out the door and people are always going in hungry and coming out as another satisfied customer. With the exception of the bagel store, the area is relatively calm. The majority of people there are sitting down at the tables, eating their delicious bagels, socializing with friends, or studying, taking advantage of some quiet down time to slow down and think. But since it is a college campus, nothing stays quiet for long, every couple minutes there is always some student sprinting in the Union as a shortcut to get to a class they cant be late for. Maybe they just wanted to get a good seat, or maybe they had to take a test and couldn't be late. The people see the sprinter, chuckle, and go back to their lives as if nothing had happened. AS I sat there writing, I started to notice all of the background noises. The cars driving next to the Union and Bookstore, the people yelling their orders in Einstein's so they can be heard over the commotion, the people talking who think they are whispering a private conversation but really everyone in the courtyard can hear, and the clamour of someone running to class. I let it all wash over me and realize that this is actually a nice spot, it's great. Its quiet enough to talk or study, but it's also entertaining to watch the events unfolding.
Chris Davis responding to Jessi Gould
ReplyDeleteIt's pretty cool to see how you chose to observe the squirrels and look at things their way. Most people, including myself, would have seen the squirrels and just looked right by them and moved onto something else. And as far as the people go, maybe the girl was just getting in after a long night of partying and was getting something to eat before she returned to her room several hours later than she planned. And the guy has probably become used to getting around with his crutches, the biggest downside is that it takes about twice the amount of time to get places, but crutches still suck nonetheless. I guess, everyone is just off on their routine, the guy and girl noth have their own places to go and the squirrels just do whatever pops into their head.
I was sitting by Einstein's Bagels with that ridiculous line waiting for the best bagels in town. I was sitting there when a thought came to mind "whoever thought to build Einstein's Bagels here was a genius. While thinking this I realized how well planed that this area was. It was nice and open people could study and eat in the sun and relax from the life we know as college. The towering red brick around me was awe-inspiring when I truly looked at it in depth. The architecture of these buildings must have taking a long time to plan out and to build. To the workers who built the union and to Mr.Ogelsby who put the inspiration into the union I would say they did an amazing job. I usually walk through the union with little attention around me always thinking about the next class that I was going to. While sitting there I could take a different perspective on how I normally pass by union. As I was sitting there writing about the space I saw one guy sitting by himself inhaling his bagel and running off to class. I thought to myself I wonder what people think of me as they sit on these benches watching me going to class. As I continued to write about this space I noticed how relaxed people were on the tables next to mine. When you first walk into the courtyard the noise of people talking and cars driving by is at first a little overwhelming but after some time you get accustom to the sound and begin to forget about the white noise in the background. You can then focus and pay attention to the things that are important to you. Like the smell of Einstein's bagels there is not many things that can smell so good but yet be some simple. Even though this is one of the busiest places on campus it was actually quiet and relaxing. Through the noise and the bustle of the campus this one space seemed laid back compared to other places I have been to like Fresh Foods. The Fresh air in this space was also something I realized. This smoke free zone allows people walking by to breath easier without choking on someones smoke.
ReplyDeleteJessi Gould responding to Chris Davis
ReplyDeleteReading your experience in the Union probably 100 yards from me was a completely different one. I was a bit jealous I did not decide to sit where there was more commotion. I experienced the students throwing away the contents of their bagels and hurrying to class not knowing where the origin of everyone was coming from. To tell you the truth the bagels sound delicious and I am a bit hungry right now. A college campus is always busy and I love the fact that we could nearly be in the same spot 'The Union' and have completely different experiences.
Cody Cox responding to Jessi Gould
ReplyDeleteI wish that I could be as free spirited as they are just going about there day with only two things on there mind. Where the next source of food is and watches out for the humans that are all over the place. With all the things that I have to worry about like the next test and other school related things it can really cause a huge amount of stress. The squirrels here are so bold I have never been so close to a squirrel until I came here to Florida State. Of course right when you get too close they dash up a tree and you usually don't see them again. With so many squirrels its hard to tell if you see the same one again or if its completely different one the all look the same. I feel bad for the dude that had the crutches all the walking and pain that he must already feel must really suck. The fact that he has to walk all over the place just to get to his classes must be a pain not including all of the other things that he may do outside of school. The girl with the heels on the other hand I don't feel in sympathy for. She chose to wear what she did when she left her dorm or apartment if she wants to go through the trouble of high heels and walking to class then that is here choice.
Cody Cox responding to Chris Davis
ReplyDeleteI believe that I was sitting by you when we went to the union to write about the space. Its funny how we had two different opinions and ideas even though we were sitting in the same space. Two different people can perceive the same thing in completely different ways. We had the same thoughts when it came to Einstein's or maybe it was because I was so hungry I couldn't think of anything else. I don't remember who else was sitting by us but I wonder how they will respond to this blog. I would like to see if they had similar or different views of the space that we were in.
Priscilla Ivasco
ReplyDeleteWhile I was sitting on the cement benches in the Courtyard of the Student Union I looked at my surroundings very closely and began to write down any details I came across. The brick buildings, the car traffic of students coming and going, the constant chirping of the walk sign, and the blazing sun. I noticed the large line stretching outside of Einstein's Bagels, as several students made their quick run for an energizing breakfast. There were several students coming out of the UPS store with boxes that had come from home. I sat there and wondered when my parents were going to ship me something, and how crazy it was that now I have my own mailbox with my name and address. I also noticed the small number of students that were sitting on the benches just like mine who were studying away for their next class. Procrastination is something difficult for any college student to avoid, we fight it but we always some how fall back in to it. Aside from the constant birds chirping away and the distant conversations I could here the clicking of the cellphone keys as the texting was part of a daily routine, I found myself giggling at this sight, because I’m sure that when people look at me they see the same thing. Technology is basically how people communicate and function now a days. I was shocked that no one was giving me odd stares as I just sat there and wrote while staring at them. I guess it’s not something new. This experience was also a reality shock for me, as in for the first time I realized I was officially submerged into the college life now. This is the community that I am a part of, and where I will be spending the next 4 years of my life.
Tess Stohr
ReplyDeleteI sat against the front of Moore Hall and it took me a while to start writing everything I saw and it was hard for me to put everything I wanted to say on the paper quick enough. Something that I didn’t notice before was an old clock hanging in a corner facing me. It caught my eye because it was reflecting the rising sun and had a bright bronze shine to it. It was clear that most people never see it because they are focused on the ground, their phone or their Ipod when they walk. I also started asking around after this exercise to see if any of the upperclassmen that I knew had seen it and they hadn’t which only proves my point. No one lifts their heads to look in front of them when they walk. Most people that walk through the Union are more focused on where they are going and how they look going there that they don’t notice the small things that make the Union so beautiful. A few other people were using the space to do homework or read which helps them to slow down and look at their surroundings. Everyone appears to be caught up in caring about getting places on time and not looking foolish getting there. Watching everyone take the beauty of the Union for granted makes me want to appreciate not just the Union but the world because if I rush through life looking at the ground then the life lived is not worth as much as it could be. Every time I walk through the Union I stop and look at the clock and remember to search for beauty because the best kind is the kind hidden. I have started to take moments out of my busy schedule to stop and look and read to world. The function of the space is to provide a focus point for student activity and social interactions on the campus which it does while also providing a place to stop and see.
Tess responding to Priscillla.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand you when you hear the constant clicking of cell phones. Honestly I feel sick when I think about how much our society relies on the internet and having constant communication with a friend on the other side of the world. Today’s children, mostly in America, are getting cell phones, laptops and Ipods when they are six years old!! What is our society coming to? Children that age should be outside with friends learning basic social skills. It is very unsettling for me when I forget my phone in my dorm and I feel as though I am naked and vulnerable, I don’t want to rely on technology as much as people do. I refuse to get internet on my phone and people think I am crazy for not wanting it. I feel as though we will all become the fat space people from the movie WALL-E sooner than we think.
Marcee’ Mitchell
ReplyDeleteSitting in the middle of the Union, near the Trading Post and across from the food court (where Pollo Tropical, Miso, and Freshens are) I see many different people and things. Some people are sitting and enjoying the scenery, probably waiting on a friend. Others are sitting in corners or at the tables studying or doing homework. I see birds walking through since the area is somewhat deserted compared to the hustle and bustle of the afternoon. As I start to walk around the union, I realize that the all the buildings are built of brick, adding to the traditional feel of the campus. However, within that traditional architecture, there are modern franchises and activities. There is a bowling alley, an art center, activities to keep students involved and happy with the campus life. People walking by begin to catch my attention. A young man on his skateboard, more than likely on his way to class. He is wearing sandals, a casual shirt, and cargo pants. A boy on his bike passes by, rather quickly, he also seemed to be in a rush. Then, two other men walk by in business suits and ties, and on their cell phones as if conducting important business this early in the morning. A couple walks by, they seem like they are in love. They hold hands and look at each other, as if they are about to kiss. Seeing these people makes me realize the diversity we have on campus, how many different cultures and lifestyles our campus supports. The restaurants also support diversity. There is a Japanese restaurant that sells Japanese dishes and sushi, something other colleges cannot boast. The excursion we took only reminded me of why I fell on love with Florida State University, and why I have such pride and spirit for my school.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAaron Murphy
ReplyDeleteI visited the student union on a different day and at a different time of day than the rest of the class. It was about 4:30pm on Tuesday, and I situated myself at one of the tables outside of the food court. The overhanging building provided plenty of shade, but the Floridian heat and humidity was still noticeable. Where I was happened to be one of the main arteries of the union--one of the more direct pathways that cut through the building. People passed with brisk paces, presumably trying to make it to class on time, though a few walked leisurely. I could see through the windows that the food court was quite busy. It wasn't at capacity, but I still found it odd to be so full at a time too early for dinner. I then noticed that many people weren't eating at all, but were simply sitting at tables with their computer screens aglow. I took note in case I ever grow tired of my usual study areas. Across the courtyard, I could see a person handing out papers to each passerby. Some of the people stayed for a moment and wrote on a clipboard while others seemed disinterested and annoyed. I imagine the person was advertising a club or event, but I couldn't tell which from my vantage point. Overall, I noticed that most people were in a rush. This makes sense of course, seeing as the union is located rather centrally. I also realized that the union almost perfectly divides the campus by disciplines. West of the union is mostly dominated by the sciences, and to the east mostly humanities. Of course there are exceptions, but there is certainly a pattern. The union almost acts as a gateway for the underclassmen that still have classes ranging both sides of campus. I imagine more advanced students don't trek across the campus as much, and probably stay within one or two buildings related to their area of study. Perhaps then, the union is used mostly by underclassmen who need to go back and forth, and who also still enjoy the novelty of the union's various attractions.
It was an exceptionally pretty day out that early morning in the Union, not a cloud in sight. It was early enough where it wasn’t sweltering hot out and felt as if fall was right around the corner. But I soon became disappointed on my walk back to my dorm, the temperature began rising. As I was sitting in the courtyard, every one of my senses was at alert. Such as my eyes took in the symmetrical bushes that ran alongside the brick walls that led up to the UPS Store. The Union didn’t seem quite busy that morning. Besides the ordinary long line leading out of the Einstein’s Bagels, only a few students were rushing past to get to their classes. My nose took in the mouthwatering smells exiting the Chili’s not to far from where I was sitting. Also the cement bench I was sitting on was located in the shade so therefore the cement felt quite chilly against my legs. Along with my sharp senses, I was paying close attention to my surroundings. During that time I noticed the grass seemed as if it hadn’t been mowed in quite sometime, there were also some weeds mixed in with the savannah looking grass. The church tower was hiding behind some old looking oak trees placed behind the Quizno’s and Computer Store. In the back of my mind I was thinking of the obnoxious bell that would soon ring within the next hour or so. Another obvious thing I was aware of was the fact the recycling bin was near to empty. Along with that the garbage cans seemed quite full, concluding that the student body needs to recycle more. By taking sometime to just sit and “smell the roses” I was able to finally relax after last week’s busy schedule of classes, exams, and the football game on Saturday.
ReplyDeleteKelly Lewis responding to Priscilla.
ReplyDeleteI believe we were sitting near each other and it was interesting we both noticed different things. I liked how you talked about the thoughts that were running through your mind, it made the post seem more personal and a lot easier to imagine. Also I enjoyed your statement about procrastination and your totally right it's really hard to keep from procrastinating for college students and practically everyone.
Kelly Lewis responding to Jessi Gould.
ReplyDeleteThe description of the squirrels chasing each other was amusing, especially the part about the girls in heels frightening them. By talking about the emotions you felt when seeing each different person made the post seem a lot more real, and it was also easier to sympathize with the injured boy when you described how you felt when you saw him struggling to climb the stairs.
Meghan Hemstreet
ReplyDeleteOn our class excursion, I sat at one of the concrete tables in the union’s courtyard. As I glanced around, I took notice of a student who was sitting by himself. Books on the table, and a bagel in hand, I casually observed his actions. With each bite of bagel he slowly took, his awkward chewing followed. It seemed as if he had never consumed solid food before. Perhaps it was his intent studying that was responsible for his lack of coordination while eating. Maybe not. For his sake, it was only 9 o’clock in the morning. I’m not much of a morning person either. After acknowledging the unknown student’s bagel, my eyes were drawn directly to Einstein Bagels. As time passed, the line grew longer in length. Talking grew louder, and the aroma of cinnamon and coffee continued to fill the air. I realized those bagels must be pretty delicious if they cause chewing spasms and are worth the 20-minute wait. Students repeatedly passed through the area, and I tried my best to avoid uncomfortable eye contact that questioned my whereabouts.
By taking the time to sit and observe my surroundings, I was given the opportunity to see the student union from a different perspective. When normally passing through, I do not acknowledge how interesting of a place it is. In the courtyard, students quietly study as they prepare for class. The sunlight gently reflects off of the walls, spotlighting the beauty of the building’s red brick exterior. Groups of students pass by, stopping to grab a bite to eat before scurrying off. Cars honk as people travel through the crosswalk on a green light. The birds chip as they nestle in the shading, dense trees up above. The union is more than just a passageway between classes. It is a place where eclectic activities occur.
Jackie Randolph
ReplyDeleteI was sitting on the bench in the middle of the Union, wondering what to write about. I was just writing random things that came to mind. Across from me I saw an art studio that students can go to. I was thinking about how I had been wanting to paint-a-pot. I had written down on a piece of paper to remind myself to look up the prices when it opened again later on in the morning. I figured I could let out some of my artistic creativity soon. Behind me was also the on campus Chilis. I was sitting there thinking about how hungry I was and how I was wishing it were open that early in the morning so I could go in and get the mashed potatoes I was craving for. I saw people walking by, wondering what their stories were. Wondering where they were going, if they were going to meet up with friends or what inspired them to wear the strange clothes some of them were wearing. I saw a petite girl walking by with a packaged that looked like she could fit in the box. I was sitting there thinking about how I don’t receive care packages from my parents or anything, I mean the last thing I got in my mailbox was the new parking pass I had to order because I found out that my other one expired after receiving a ticket. I thought that after I finished writing down whatever I was observing, I decided I was going to call my mom and request her to send me something in the mail.
Jackie Randolph responding to Marcee’ Mitchell
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with what you were saying about loving the diversity at this school. Walking through the Union on any ordinary day they have representatives from all sorts of clubs, from Asian Business leaders to a skydiving club! I think that there are so many things here that you can get involved with that are similar to what you’re interested in. Everyone admires the design of the school and how it is all brick, but when you’re just sitting there observing what’s around you, is when you fully learn to appreciate the school’s architecture. I believe that there is so much history and many stories that go along with these buildings, I feel so lucky to be able to call this place my school.
Meghan Hemstreet Responding To Jessi Gould
ReplyDeleteI really like how you chose to write about the squirrels running and hiding throughout the union. I find it interesting that each of us chose to acknowledge different events even though we were stationed in the same general area. If I had chosen to sit in the same place where you did, I do not think I would have noticed the squirrels’ actions. You used great description on your post and told an interesting short story in class regarding your experience. I feel the same way about walking around campus in heels. It would definitely be hard to walk long distance in them without catching the heels on a pathway’s cracks.
Aaron Murphy responding to Marcee’ Mitchell
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like we were both around the same area of the union, near the food court. You wrote about how people were just sitting around, perhaps waiting for friends. I didn't observe much of this at all when I visited in the afternoon. There were people frantically eating and then quickly leaving, but no one seemed to just be sitting and studying. In contrast, it was fairly busy and crowded, probably because you visited in the morning when most students prefer not to have classes. It's interesting how the same location had such a completely different feel to it when observed a few hours apart.
I decided that I was going to sit in front of the lost and found center, on one of the round benches. Every time the wind would blow it would mess up my hair and I would stop writing to fix it, well it actually helped me out. When i was writing, I couldn't see what was going on around me, the people that walked by. I got some good looks at girls in tiny skirts and wearing heels, and i thought to myself, "wow, they must not walk as much as I do." Everyone had a face that said "I need to be somewhere and that is not here. Everyone seemed to be in a hurry. It was nice to not be in a hurry for once.Then I began to notice what color people's shirts were, what they said. Many people wore either red or black or white. I did happen to notice that no one in a green shirt walked by me, and then I began to notice all the colors used in the union, from the brightly colored signs to the different colors of chalk to get people to rush or come to meetings.
ReplyDeleteI loved the thing about the squirrels. I liked the thing we did in class also, where you captured the squirrels and how flitterly they seem to be. It reminded me of how i looked at the union myself really. One thing that made me look at something else and that something else made me look at something else from that. I ended up just making notes and not writing in paragraph form like I started out doing. I enjoyed how you came up with the same thing I did when I saw a girl wearing high heels. I couldn't do that with how much walking a do daily around campus. Good to know that I am not the only one wearing tennis shoes and flip flops to school and not heels.
ReplyDeletePriscilla I have to agree with you. At different parts in the day different family members call me. My mom calls when I sitting outside my chem class and I sit there and laugh and talk to her. My aunt calls me when I am sitting outside of my ancient myth class and I notice I get strange stares from people as they walk by and I am talking about how am excited to come home and see you and that i love you and will talk to you soon. But I get it worse when i am on the bus and my dad texts me and then I randomly start laughing at what my brother said that morning and what not. Technology is a huge part of my life and I am getting used to the stares of people so it doesnt bother me as much now. lol
ReplyDeleteChris Davis responding to Cody Cox
ReplyDeleteWe actually were sitting in the same place, only a couple tables apart. I love that we were in almost the same exact place and how we both saw some of the same things, but also noticed or looked at something in a completely different way. I saw the union as just a bunch of buildings and food places. You actually looked in depth at the architecture and what it took to make a place like that come to life from just the plans. But we both noticed how once we are able to get past the white noise of the cars and people in the background, it really does become a nice peaceful place to relax and enjoy the campus.
Alexis Turgeon
ReplyDeleteIn the Union, I was inspired by the courtyard area because it is the central area that everyone passes through. It doesn’t matter who you are, if you go to Florida State University, you have been through the courtyard of the Student Union at least once. One thing I never noticed before was the music that they play. It was amusing to see some of the people walking to the beat without realizing it. Also, I never realized the two square objects in the middle. They make me curious as to what they represent or if they have a ‘famous’ name (such as the “sumo” statue by the dorms). There were a ton of leaves on the ground, which means fall must be coming soon. I never really pay attention to the trees and the seasons since they don’t change that much where I come from. I also observed water on the ground from the night’s rain. My apartment is so quiet; I can never tell when it is raining. I never noticed the art studio that is in the Union; it’s weird how sometimes the most obvious things are hidden to us. The people who use the Union are anyone and everyone. Usually, you will see the more social (or hungrier) people in the Student Union more often. The Union is definitely a place where you can go to meet new friends or just have a good time with some old friends. There’s bowling, food, art, music, and usually there are conventions going on or even certain shows provided by the school. I went to see a comedian in the Union before, best show yet. All types of students use the Student Union daily; I being one of them usually have Einstein Bagel Bro’s. before or after classes in the morning. The Union was built to supply the needs of the students and create a comfortable place for them to hang out, and I believe the students do just that.
Alexis Turgeon in response to Meghan Hemstreet
ReplyDeleteI really liked your blog, it made me laugh. Comedic writing is the most interesting to read, so I definitely liked reading yours. I thought it was funny how you watched the guy eat while he studied and observed how he eats. I do this a lot too, but I don’t think I’ve written a humorous blog about it. I like how your writing reflected the fact that watching and smelling the food at Einstein Bagel Bro’s increased your appetite and craving for it. I know exactly how you feel! I also liked how you wrote about the small things in the union rather than the blatantly obvious. Your descriptions of your surroundings are very detailed and give me a good idea of what you were looking at.
Alexis Turgeon in response to Aaron Murphy
ReplyDeleteYour blog was really interesting. I sat in the same area, but because it was only nine in the morning, I didn’t see half the activity you did. I completely agree with the idea that the Union is a place (mostly for underclassmen) to pass through, and that tons of people do. I found it interesting that people use the food court as a place to study. I would think it to be really distracting, but maybe that is exactly what they want. I never noticed that the Union divided the school between sciences and humanities but now that I think about it, it really does seem that way. You have a lot of intriguing points that I have never noticed before.
Lindsey Rice
ReplyDeleteWhen i was sitting on the bench looking around, i was looking for superficial things. I noticed what was visible to the eye and was content to not dig deeper. Then, when we came into class and people began sharing what they had written in their short story about the space they described i realized imagination was necessary. I wasn't creative; i wrote what i saw period end of story. I never wondered about squirrels or ensteins bagels. I simple described what i saw, which really wasn't much to the untrained eye like mine. Yet, after hearing people talk about the spots they chose around the union i realized much of writing is like dreaming up something with CrEaTiViTy and imagination. I now know that i will have to step it up in the writing department!
Tess Stohr responding to Jessi Gould
ReplyDeleteI really like how you focused on the squirrels and compared their movements to a game. I never really pay attention to them except when I see one I yell SQUIRREL like Doug does in UP. I also like how you mentioned the simplicity of the squirrel’s lives. It makes you wonder if we didn’t have to worry about school, work, looks, or anything bigger than our immediate world, how nice live would be. Of course we wouldn’t know a lot of what we do today but don’t you think they are blissfully happy? I would like to experience that for a day.
When we went and observed different areas in the union I for one went to go pick a place that was kinda sunny because I like areas like that because they seem friendly. The area i chose to sit at was the courtyard area with the stone benches that had tiered levels and I was sitting at the middle level on a bench with a table. I was facing towards the Einstien's with the table to my back and the first thing I noticed was the lack of people outside of the Einsteins. There were only about FIVE people! that really amazed me because normally its overflowing with people at about nine in the morning. After i got over my shock of no one at the Einsteins i looked around writing about the hedge, the wind blowing making the area feel nice, and how it was like a secluded area to study which many students who were there were doing. Then after about 5 minutes I turned back to the Einsteins and BAM! the line had pretty much quadrupled because the line was all the way outside the doors with more people joining the line. That was the more normal Einsteins i was use to but it also dashed my ideas of getting food after class was over.
ReplyDeleteLindsey Rice in response to Tess:
ReplyDeleteI like that you had the struggle of starting writing, but you found a change which is great. You began opening our eyes to deeper things and found beauty in the small and great things. Beauty is everywhere we just have to find it. I also like your observation of where people look when theyre walking. I feel that many people find walking alone awkward and don't know if they should look straight ahead when one is passing, pretend text on their phone, or stare at the sidewalk ahead of them... Many never consider eye contact or a smile. I wonder why that is.
Samantha Lynch
ReplyDeleteWhen I sat in the union, to simply observe the things around me, it was about 10:00 am on a Wednesday. I sat on the little concrete benches outside of the food court area. There were people everywhere. I love to watch people, I could probably do it for hours, and everyone that walks by has a different story, a different history and a different present. One guy just walked by with only one flip flop on. That was strange. Maybe his other one broke and he didn’t have time to find a new one-he looked to be in a hurry, maybe late for class. One girl just walked by with what looked to be a paper in her hand, she looked like the happiest person in the whole union, and I guess that paper was a success. People are slowly starting to set up tables to catch these walker-bys attention. Some are trying to sell a product while some are trying to advertise. Oh look, this guy is setting up a table to sell flip-flops, too bad he wasn’t here about 10 minutes ago for that guy with just one shoe. Some people walk by like their running late, while some just seem to appear to be out for a leisurely stroll. Some are socializing with friends; while some are doing everything they can not to catch the attention of anyone. As I sit here watching all of these people, the different ways they look and the different reasons they seem to be here really makes me want to know more about them. I want to know where they’re from, where they are going and what brought them here to Florida State. When you sit somewhere like this with the intent to just sit and watch people, it really opens up your eyes about all the different people that we pass every day, but may not ever actually see.
Samantha Lynch responding to Jessi
ReplyDeleteI love how you noticed the squirrels, I think I could have sat there for an hour, and never payed them any attention. Which is kinda funny, because even they seemed to be pretty observant, but also really cautious, Doesn't it make you kinda wonder why their even worried about anyone seeing them? Wouldn't it be nice if the biggest thing you had to worry about in a day was someone (who might not even notice them if the squirrels were chasing them) noticing you?
I really like how you went into how the current generations communicate. It is so relatable and true. Our generation is completely consumed by technology that we can’t even sit and have a normal conversation with someone without checking our phones to see if we have another message pertaining to another conversation with another person. The thought of spending the next four years of our life here with all these people is a bit overwhelming. However, it’s a new beginning for all of us to learn new things and gather from new experiences.
ReplyDeleteMarcee’ Mitchell responding to Meghan Hemstreet:
ReplyDeleteThis was the most interesting post I have read so far. It made me laugh a little bit because there is so much truth to it that I have never really paid that much attention to myself. When you talked about the boy and his bagel, it reminded me of the many times I myself have rushed through breakfast because I was running late, and getting questionable looks when passers-by find me to seem out of place. I also agree with your opinion on the union being an interesting place, because it most certainly is.
A lonely pair of chairs sit next to a matching table, all bolted into the ground. The space is shady throughout the day and seasons. The hussle and bussle of the modern day lies only feet behind this arrangement, yet it feels as if it is miles from the craziness of the modern university. The people who typically find tranquility in this space are those seeking it. The space is wonderfully soothing. It could also function, a lunch spot. It is in the shade with a great view, as well as in the middle of everything on campus. The space can be incredibly versitile, thus the type of people.
ReplyDeletePeople determine space:
ReplyDelete“In my own little corner I calmly do what I do best: people watch. A firm hand shake occurs between 2 young men who obviously know each other but were not planning on meeting here. I continually make eye contact with a tall, blonde, cute student as he walks by making sure that people can see just his head above the bushes. I observe one student slowly savoring every bite of his Einstein bagel. He has already completed is entire first bagel and is on to his second one. A girl too busy to take the time to sit down and enjoy her bagel hides beneath her large sunglasses, and she sets a brisk pace for herself while she tries to balance holding her purse, carrying her books, and opening her bagel to eat. A line of people starts to accumulate at the entrance to Einstein bagels. A couple of people who like to be productive on Tuesday morning make there once a week, or once a day, or once an hour trip to the post office. Most people come out empty handed but the lucky ones come out holding a letter or even better a whole package. A young guy sits at the table in front of me trying to avoid awkward eye contact that I have been trying to make happen. He has a gold cross around his neck, and a fish hook attached to the brim of his camouflage baseball hat. I find myself wondering where he is from?…what his major is?... what he is diligently studying for?... oh wait he is reading English!! Haha” Based on my observations it is obvious that people determine the space. If space determined people I would have observed everyone doing the same thing. A space is what you as a person makes that space be. On that Tuesday the union was a place for me to people watch, for others a place to get breakfast , for some a study haven, a short cut, a task to check off his or her to do list. Some people enjoyed being there and allowed others to enjoy their time there. Some were miserable the whole time they were there. People bring their own attitudes, feelings, personalities, and actions to every space they go to. People positively, negatively, or neutrally affect a space. People determine space.
Priscilla Responding om Marcee
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog, it was extremely detailed and I actually constantly find myself noticing the exact same thing when I am strolling around campus. People watching is always something that I find to be exciting as you observe others, and learn about the things that go on around you. I definitely feel that Florida State has a large variety of students, with all different kinds of styles and ideas. Each one bringing something new to the table. There are so many possibilities here for just about anyone with any taste! Which make this such a wonderful environment to immerse ourselves into.
Priscilla responding to Jackie
ReplyDeleteI found myself laughing a bit while reading the beginning f yours, because ever since I moved in I've been telling myself that I would go paint-a-pot and I still haven't gone yet, and I find that a bit ridiculous. Other than that I enjoyed your post because it had a sort of flow to it where you tied in your beginning and your end and I felt like that was well done. Your details made it very easy to visualize the surroundings, and the people walking by especially the petite girl that could fit in the box. I hope that you get your care package soon!
So, class, what do your observations say about space and people? Think about that because it will come up again...
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