Entering a New Culture... By Staying Exactly Where I'm At!

Greetings and salutations everyone.

I guess I should begin by introducing myself properly... my name is William J. Harris, but I'm most notably called "Jimmy" (and no, the "J." does not stand for that, for those who are curious).

I am a Sophomore at Clemson University, I am twenty-one years old, and I am majoring in Psychology with a minor in Food Science.

To give an idea of my interests, I like reading, writing, and cooking. Notably, I write stories and poetry; also, I am known for drawing and a few sprite web comics (sadly, it is not popular or well-known for those who are aware of what a sprite web comic is) as the inspiration hits me.

After encouragement from Professor Nichols, I have decided to keep this class for the necessary credit and benefits that it offers.

If you're looking for something that will set these blogs apart, I would like to throw caution to the wind on two levels.

*Grimly* The first is that I am not a keen "online" person. MySpace, FaceBook, Twitter... these things mean nothing to me. I tend to kick it old-school with writing letters, phone calls, emails, and the occasional text messaging.

Let me assure you all, that you should look at my posts with a fair degree of... shall we say, amusement? I am learning how to use these "new tools", and trust me, I will learn fast. I know that over the course of this semester, I will grow in postings and abilities, so I ask for a reasonable amount of patience when it comes to quality and ability.

After all, I'm taking this class to better myself.

The second is that I am probably unlike anyone else in this class because while we are all here to learn and immerse ourselves in foreign society and culture, I am... well, still at Clemson University.

Now, you ask, how might I accomplish immersion of any kind?

Well, that answer is simple. I live in the Clemson Exchange Community at Calhoun Courts.

This means that my posts and projects will be a little... different than what you all may be able to post.

I will be creative. I will be unique. And I will participate in activities that CEC residents organize throughout the semester (as my class work and activities allow) in learning how other students are affected by our culture and how they integrate their own influences and beliefs into Clemson.

These will range from brunches to dances to movie nights to karaoke, but overall, my theme is to observe interaction of the majority through the actions of individuals.

Simply put, I will be participating in "themed" events and take advantage of learning culture. Afterward, I will discuss questions with individuals to learn how they feel in regards to Clemson and the American culture.

*Thoughtfully* I suppose now is the time I should reflect upon this course and it's materials. I'm still brainstorming on the final projects, and how I will be using my environment and my situation in order to satisfy the requirements.

Also, obtaining a camera and video recorder at the proper times (for those of you who have tried checking out video recorders at Cooper Library, I share your pain) will prove challenging, but all in all, I will provide pictures and longer, articulately-detailed recordings to make amends.

As always, I'm open to suggestions and advice. And if anyone comments on anything of mine, expect me to give some attention to your own postings as well.

Well, that's it for now. Thank you. And, I shall keep you posted.