#8: Self Evaluation

1. I have learned a lot this semester just by taking the English 15S course. My writing style has changed and my perspective on the different forms of arts have changed as well. Coming into the Penn State community as a freshman was overwhelming and stressful at times. Penn State has a plethora of amazing opportunities and it was difficult coming in and trying to immerse myself into so many things at once. I have always been a strong supporter of the arts and have done them my entire life so learning about the many artistic opportunities Penn State has to offer through this course, really helped me narrow down my options of what I might want to experience in my years to come. 

My writing style has definitely improved over these past few months. College-style writing is contrastive in comparison to high school writing and naturally I adapted to the requirements of a college paper. However, I consciously changed certain strategies that I had prior towards useful methods of writing a concise paper. I've learned the different uses of rhetoric, how to analyze advertisements, and how to write a memoir. 

I enjoyed taking this course because we talked about English and related it to the real world. We listened to podcasts on how Penn State was ranked the "Number 1 Party School in America" and analyzed it. This was interesting because it gave two different perspectives-the English analytical side and the Penn State student side. We did many readings that helped influence us how to write our own papers and how to professionally get a point across. The fun aspect to the class was how it revolved around the arts. I have always loved the arts and this class had a deeper perspective on it which was interesting and inspiring. This blog was also a fun and entertaining way to get my opinion out to the world about certain places and events. I really enjoyed going to concerts and shows besides the fact that it was a requirement for the class. I definitely have a different perspective on English now because I have intertwined it with my knowledge of the arts. 

Throughout the course we talked about different styles of writing and how to improve our instinctive style. My professor, Sheila Squillante, was an excellent mentor who showed us her own professional pieces to influence us how to become more masterful writers. Her writing was very influential to me because it showed me how one writes in order to get published and recognized. She taught me how to be less redundant but still inspiring. She taught me how to be more concise with my writing but not to take the meaning away from the work. She taught me how to express myself through my writing but still manage to stay on track. But most importantly, she taught me that professors can be helpful friends too.

I have changed my writing style because of this class but not consciously; it happened on its own. I've never had the chance to write freely about a subject of my choice and I got to do that multiple times in this course. This was an opportunity that had never risen for me and it helped me express myself through something I was passionate about. It really showed me that I am a better writer than I thought and that it is something I might be willing to pursue, even if its just on the side. This course helped me see the many options I could take through English and writing and even if I go no further with it, I know I have a fun hobby.



2. 9/11/12:

http://ashleelindoh.blogspot.com/2012/09/palmer-museum-of-art.html?showComment=1347397060061#c2181408324160990168

9/18/12:

http://allisonmazzola.blogspot.com/2012/09/analysis-my-course-blog.html?showComment=1348007897557#c1551206741116580625

9/24/12

http://carascornerthearts.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-ready-set-at-penn-state-block-party.html

10/01/12

http://bittyjade.blogspot.com/2012/09/i-thought-arboretum-was-very-fun.html?showComment=1349141558085#c6196776237079411063

10/10/12

http://carascornerthearts.blogspot.com/2012/10/the-social-network.html

10/15/12

http://bryancarse74.blogspot.com/2012/10/old-school-movie-review.html?showComment=1350343746016#c7224789790376650206

10/23/12

http://jimmyschlupp.blogspot.com/2012/09/monday-morning-at-garden_28.html?showComment=1351044902993#c1812674499890116410

10/30/12

http://ashleelindoh.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-arboretum-at-penn-state.html?showComment=1351610309719#c6028959510780307124

11/07/12

http://artandrhetoric.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-stroll-in-park.html?showComment=1352319213903#c8106163075393729464 

11/12/12

http://derosag5050.blogspot.com/2012/10/animal-house.html?showComment=1352757825350#c202232074130439329 

11/27/12

http://artsinthehappyvalley.blogspot.com/2012/11/in-red-and-brown-water.html?showComment=1354074096348#c2846458408136630463

11/30/12

http://carascornerthearts.blogspot.com/2012/11/extra-blog-post-2-my-photography.html

12/06/12

http://jrose412.blogspot.com/2012/11/i-hear-word-broadway-i-typicallythink.htmlshowComment=1354844677511#c6066802480524529768

3. I have completed my SRTE! :)

#7: Peanut Butter Disaster

I am a disaster when it comes to food allergies. I am prone to having a minor allergic reaction at least once every day. However, I have learned to completely avoid peanuts and the thick, disgusting butter that comes from it. I wouldn't say my reaction is that bad, but I do stop breathing for a little while.

There was one instance in which I felt I had no other option but to eat the creamy poison.

I've done theater all my life, completely aware that one should bring a snack to rehearsals because they can get long and boring very quickly. The morning of one of the dress rehearsals I rushed into the car and the thought of even a cracker had slipped my mind. My mom continues to drive and stops at a red light suddenly asking, "Did you eat anything? It's going to be a long day." I shrugged my shoulders, "I'll be fine! I'm not that hungry anyway." That was a blatant lie. I couldn't even remember the last time I had a full meal; rehearsals had taken up all my time and worn me out completely.

We arrived at the theater and we hopped out of the car and grabbed our belongings. We walked through the lobby saying "Hi" to the familiar faces we had encountered over the long three months. I went back to the dressing room as my mother went to the auditorium and began the dress rehearsal (she was the Director). She continued to fix the scenes for hours and it was finally time to start the dress rehearsal.

"20 minutes," said one of the crew managers.

"Thank you, 20!" The cast replied.

I was wandering around stage with my friend, Zoe waiting for the dress rehearsal to begin but she was just as hungry as I was. She walked into the snack room and grabbed a sandwich. I searched the table, but all I could find was peanut butter and honey sandwiches; all the cold cuts were gone. I just stared at them. I was starving and I needed something so I wouldn't pass out on stage. In an impulse, I grabbed the sandwich and took a bite. I knew I would regret it but in that moment I didn't care if I couldn't breathe for a few minutes and might have to go to the hospital. I'd be fine! I told myself. It was disgusting; not only was I allergic to peanut butter but I found it disgusting.

It was glueing my teeth together and I was so embarrassed. Not sure if this is a good thing now that I think about it, but no one knew I was allergic so I felt a little better. Then, the crew manager yelled "Places!"

I dropped the sandwich in the trash and ran on stage. I had a line but it was short so I figured I could get through it and then just run off stage and grab a bottle of water. The curtains opened and the scene began. A minute passed and the main character comes up to me and cues me and I croak out "Shalom!" It was so embarrassing. The woman gave me a strange look, knowing something was wrong, but kept going with the scene. My voice was scratchy and it hurt so much, but I just smiled and waited for the curtain to close. When it did, I ran off and since then, I have never purposely eaten peanut butter again.

#6: In the Red and Brown Water

This past weekend I saw the production of "In the Red and Brown Water" at Penn State's Playhouse Theater. The show is about a girl named Oya who lived with her mother, Mamma Moja. She was a competitive runner that got recruited by a Sports recruiter from the state but did not take up the opportunity because Mamma Moja was sick. She ended up losing her mother and the chance to run for the school so she began to focus on getting married and having children. Intertwined with the story is a confusing romance amongst multiple men and the end has a shocking twist.

What stuck me as the most important event for Oya was her chance to run for the college she had wanted to go to. Mamma Moja's character was given less than a year to live and Oya thought it was best to stay and take care of her rather than to fulfill her dream. Therefore she did not achieve what she was set out to do.

I was extremely compelled by the music and the vocals from the performance. The A-Cappella choir was phenomenal and made it seem as if there was music supporting them; it was flawless. Each one of the individual singers was also outstanding and could carry their part all on their own and beautifully. The African instruments that played throughout the piece also added a nice perspective on different types of music.

The piece was confusing at many parts. From the start of the piece the focus seemed to be on Oya and her running career and I thought that throughout the piece, she would continue to strive towards her dream. Once she was denied the opportunity to run, she gave up and changed her focus to starting a family. This puzzled me because I didn't understand why the plot would shift so drastically. Other than that, the acting, singing, and dancing were all amazing; I couldn't complain.

This was not my first time seeing a live production but it was very unique. I've either seen musicals with large bands, or straight plays with no accompanment. This show was a mix between the two because the singing was usually unaccompanied but when it was, it was only by a couple of african instruments played by 3 men. I went in to the theater completely unaware of what I was viewing, but it was definitely a great show and I would recommend it.

#5: Movie Review: The Graduate

The Graduate perfectly captures the mundane life of a recently graduated adult along with the luxuries of laziness but with a comedic twist.

Many movies from the 60's can be difficult to watch because of the old fashioned effects but I understand why "The Graduate" was awarded an Oscar (for Best Director). The Graduate, directed by Mike Nichols, opened in 1967 with stars such as Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, and Katharine Ross.

I have seen 60's movies such as The Yellow Submarine, Psycho, and 2001: A Space Odyssey, but the Graduate is the one film where I found myself laughing along with the plot rather than at the poorly done special effects seen in the others.

The Graduate is about a college graduate who, instead of going to graduate school or finding a job, has an affair with his neighbor...who is a married mother.  It's a perfect combination between comedy and drama which is a nice mix of two usually conflicting genres. There are many uncomfortable moments in the movie but you will find yourself laughing more than anything.

The plot is simple but as the movie progresses it becomes more complex with the intricate detail of the scenarios and characters. Each of the actors portrays their characters excellently, making them much more believable and relatable. It is very nicely directed, using different perspectives and smooth scene changes that make the piece flow altogether. The soundtrack is also a nice compliment to the story but did not distract from the visuals which is usually hard to execute. The songs were alluring and did an outstanding job of telling the story. I was amazed at how each song accompanied a scene and helped elaborate on the plot and context, while being aesthetically appealing to the ear.

However, there are many moments throughout the film where there is unending silence; I felt uncomfortable in my seat and wanted the plot to move on.  Some scenes are random and unnecessary which may add to the more realistic feel to the movie but do not relate to the plot. The filmography does not always focus on the main subject of the scene which is frustrating and a weakness because it changes the perspective and understanding of the scenario.

I went into it not expecting much but was very impressed with the film as a whole. Every movie has its flaws but The Graduate is a splendid representation of movies from the 60's and a wonderful film on its own.

#4: Trip to the Arboretum

The H.O. Botanical Gardens at the Penn State Arboretum, in my opinion,  is by far the most beautiful part of the Penn State Campus. I had been there once before but had not explored it quite as thoroughly as I did on this trip with our English class.

I may have really bad allergies, but I am definitely a nature lover. I truly appreciate nature and everything it has to offer; it is beautiful. I took photography for four years and I haven't had a chance to take exceptional photos in quite a while. Going to the Arboretum was a great experience for me because it gave me a chance to get back into photography and take some really nice pictures of the landscape and the flowers.

I would definitely come here again and even bring friends because it is a completely different aspect of Penn State, aside from football, academics, and the arts. It represents the naturalistic beauty of the school and the astounding landscape that surrounds us.

The Arboretum has many alluring aspects to it. When you first walk up to it there is a path layered with flowers and shrubs on each side of the walkway, drawing you in. This path leads you to many different paths that either take you to fountains, sitting areas, or the Overlook Pavilion. The Pavilion is enticing with its unique pointed arch, stone walls and white canopy. The design is very modern and simple; It has neutral colored bricks for the walls but the building itself has an interesting design. It reminded me of an awning that you would see at a wedding (I heard some people have actually gotten married here!). If you are standing underneath the edge of the canopy, you will look out and see a dazzling mountain range and a forest of trees. There are several hiking paths that you can take if interested in exploring the mountains of Penn State even further. The design of the Botanical Gardens is very tasteful overall.

I felt very relaxed and calm when I was exploring the different paths and plains of the gardens. It is a peaceful area, a good distance from campus but not too far, so one knows they are still part of Penn State but in a more serene environment. It was very easy to get lost in my own thoughts.

When I was younger there was a small reservation of land next to my house. There was tall grass and vines that connected into natural archways. There were rabbit homes, which look like domes made out of sticks and twigs, and they covered a huge portion of the land. All of this was incased in trees and vines which gave it the feeling that it was nature's creation of a house. The best part was that it was right next to a highway, but you could neither see nor hear the cars passing by, which made it seem like it was in a whole different part of the city. I would go there with my dad and explore because I loved going on adventures and discovering new things. It was beautiful and peaceful and I never saw anyone else within its boundaries so I believed it was mine. It was my small, secret world. Not long after I had discovered it, construction began on the site and it was soon turned into a parking garage. I could not believe that no one understood what beauty that small patch of land held, and to turn it into something that seemed like a waste of space. The Arboretum reminds me of this area in a way. They are both reserved, peaceful, and beautiful; I believe I can really go here and just think.

#3: Arts Cultural Response: Rock the Vote Concert

I've been to many concerts in the past but they have never been free. Going to the Rock the Vote Concert starring ALO, G. Love and Jack Johnson, was one of the first impulsive decisions I've made since I've been here and I wouldn't have gone if I had to pay for it. I didn't know any of Jack Johnson's music BUT I figured I would give it a shot and I'm so glad I did because it was awesome!

The concert was Wednesday, September 19 at 7 PM in the Eisenhower Auditorium on campus. The room was packed with people and it was a really great atmosphere. I would say there were a couple thousand people in the room and every one of them was excited and energetic.

The first band to come on stage was ALO, who I had never heard of before. I expected them to be a mediocre, average band but they were incredible. Their music was very upbeat and easy to dance along to; at times the entire room was moving their arms back and forth simultaneously and singing along.

The second act was the singer, Garrett Dutton, who is known as G. Love. His music was also really great but many of the songs sounded alike and after the 3rd song I could tell the crowd was getting bored. People started to talk and the music turned into background music but it was still nice to listen to.

The final and most important act of the night was Jack Johnson!! When he walked onstage the entire crown went wild and jumped out of their seats. Even though I'm not a big fan, I still got the butterflies because of the overwhelming atmosphere of the room. His music was very calming and he had great lyrics.

At the previous concerts I've been to, there was a huge mob of people right in front of the stage, dying to get a closer look at the performers. It usually gets sweaty and uncomfortable very quickly and extremely claustrophobic. In the Eisenhower it was relatively comfortable; we got to sit in chairs and did not have to worry about people pushing us around to get a good view. It was extremely loud, but that was expected.

It was not my first time at a Rock the Vote concert because my high school used to have them as well. This past year, TimeFlies and Third Eye Blind performed at my school and in 2008 Gym Class Heroes performed. However, it was my first concert at PennState.

My expectations for the concert were low because going into it, I didn't know what kind of music I would be hearing. I figured I would be bored most of the time because I had never heard the songs, but it surpassed my expectations completely and I found myself not wanting to leave. When I talked to my friends about it, they felt the same way. In fact, we all went back to our dorms and downloaded the music that we had heard that night!

I would definitely go back to one of these events because even though I'm not old enough to vote, it's a great way to get together and listen to great music.

#2: Art at the Palmer

Adoration of the Magi- Oil on Panel
Attributed to Jan de Beer (1475-1528)
Netherlandish

This painting depicts the very popular biblical scene of baby Jesus receiving gifts from the Three Kings. Jesus is placed on Mary's lap and the Three Kings surround them each holding different valuable items. 


I've traveled all around Europe and been to many museums that have this type of Renaissance art and I find it the most interesting, so I chose this piece to show you what kind of art speaks to me most. A lot of people I know today like more modern art than Renaissance art but I'm a little old fashioned :)


The rhetorical situation of this piece is important because in the mid 1400s in the Netherlands, the paintings were famed for landscapes, portraits, and altarpieces. In my opinion, this specific painting serves as a symbol of all three. The portrait of the Kings giving their offerings to Jesus, which also serves as an altarpiece because of its religious value, and the landscape portrayed in the background of the pice. There are many artistic representations of this biblical scene, done by many artists all around the world, but this particular portrayal is interesting because according to the bible this event happened inside of a stable. In this specific painting this event is taking place in what appears to be a large building with hanging tapestries and a beautiful landscaped view. I believe the painter portrayed "The stable" scene this way to imply that this is what he believes is the proper way a child of such superiority should be approached, even by Kings. Another detail I noticed was none of the Kings are looking Jesus in the eye and this is no accident. To further emphasize the superiority this artist feels toward baby Jesus, he portrays the Kings as uncomfortable in his presence as if they are not worthy. The artist altered this biblical scene to accentuate the importance of the religious character and to demonstrate how he is worshipped, even by Kings.

This painting intrigues me because there are many details intertwined within the simple biblical reenactment. As for pathos, I don't feel "sad" or "happy" when I look at this painting but more curious. I want to know more about why the artist felt the need to change the scene and what his reasoning was. 

This piece of art contains credibility because it refers to a famous scene from the Bible. The Bible deems credibility because it is the most well known collection of stories in the entire world and millions of people worship what is written inside. The artist, Jan de Beer, is credible as well because he was a well known Netherlandish painter, a master of the Guild of St. Luke and then became a dean of the Guild (credible in Christianity which is the subject of his painting).

I believe that the claim of this piece is Jesus is an important figure, contrary to many beliefs. The Kings are purposely portrayed as a lower status than baby Jesus and the setting suggests royalty and superiority rather than the original farm setting portrayed in the Bible. This claim is definitely persuasive because it is illustrating the argument that Jesus is more distinguished than the Kings who were considered of the highest superiority. Even though Jesus is not the center of the painting, he is the main focal point of the scene which helps persuade viewers that the placement in the painting is insignificant to his status.   


My experience at the Palmer was okay. I love art but my favorite genre is renaissance art and there were only a couple of pieces in that era. I would definitely go back, it has a plethora of interesting pieces and I wouldn't mind going back to explore and learn more about them.