jeffrey robert lange

1. SDTV - We all know that HDTV is coming soon to the US, so let’s just get rid of it now. It’s ugly.
2. Dial-up - Especially AOL. Hasn’t this company gotten the idea that they should just stick to AIM? You can get faster internet for cheaper than most dial-up anyways. And while we’re at it, let’s get rid of old compu… wait.
3. Old Computers - I think I speak for all IT specialists when I say that nobody wants to try to remember how to fix your old computer. Besides, they’re usually slow, outdated, and the hardware in them is probably covered in dust. Unless you can manage the computer by yourself, get rid of it.
4. Flash Intro Pages - Nobody likes these. Really. And besides, they usually serve no practical purpose.
5. Mac/PC Wars - Let the user choose what computer fits them the best. There is no real one size fits all computer, so stop trying to market them!
6. Child Molesters - They’re just creepy and disgusting. If you have a valid argument against this one, I’d like to hear it.
7. Blocked Names/Numbers on Caller-ID - I think that you should have the right to know who’s calling you, and from what phone number. I know of too many scams that could have been avoided if everyone knew the number from which the scammer dialed from.
8. Babies at R-rated Movies - seriously, a crying baby really ruins the suspense.
9. High Food Prices - I don’t really have a solution to this problem, but it sure would be great if my food was cheaper.
10. Double Standards - If I can’t go into a ladies room, then how can two ladies just walk into a guys room with no punishment?

I have but one final left, which will take place on Saturday. I can’t believe that my freshman year is over. It seems like just yesterday that I was worried about making friends in college. Although, I have learned many things, and not only in my classes. Here’s some of what I’ve learned:

1. If you act like yourself and don’t try to be anyone else, people that you will probably like will gravitate towards you.
2. Going to social events is a great way to feel comfortable at college.
3. Getting involved in a student-run organization can be a great alternative to a fraternity or sorrority.
4. Find a study group, no matter how easy the subject is.
5. You won’t only make new relationships in college, but you’ll also break some old relationships that just won’t work anymore.
6. Don’t let the busyness of college block out your essential bodily functions (eating, sleeping, visiting the restroom). Avoiding these necessities only ends badly.
7. Wash your hands every three hours or so, especially after a party.
8. There will be at least one day when you won’t be able to take a shower. It’s okay if it’s just once, but don’t make a habit of it, or you will be soon to lose most of your friends.
9. If you don’t already have a shirt or sweater with your school’s name on it, you will want to buy one as soon as possible. Also, look for free clothes towards the beginning of the year, you’ll be glad you did when you’re broke.
10. Lastly, eat all of the free food possible. Refrigerate it if possible.

I’m sorta glad that I have the next few months off for a few reasons, like catching up with my old friends, getting some time away from my college friends, and sleeping in my own bed again.