Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Thoughts on Departure: Zack Pollack

As I sit here writing this blog, I have to say, I am
impressed with how fast this semester has gone by. It feels
like only weeks ago I received a letter in the mail with
details inviting me on this trip to Hawaii. For myself, I
knew this was an opportunity that I was not going to pass
up. My sister went to Hawaii a few years ago and she said it
was an experience of a lifetime. I figured back in June that
if I went on this trip I would be exposing myself to a
culture, which I have never seen before. Also, studying
there for two weeks will give me a respect for the culture
and diversity of Hawaii. Before I was lectured about the
50th state, my immediate thought of Hawaii was beautiful
weather, unique culture and a nice Hawaiian woman placing
lei around my neck. These are basic stereotypes about
Hawaii, which many tourists think of, including myself.
With only a few finals remaining until winter recess, I
have to admit it's hard to completely concentrate on
studying when I know I have an exciting trip to Hawaii right
around the corner. When speaking with friends and family- I
have been informed many times how the plane ride is long and
boring. Having traveled to parts of Europe I am aware of how
boring the ride could be, but I figure with an I-pod,
magazine and a small pillow I should be prepared for the
ride. It will be interesting leaving early on January 1st
which means I should probably not stay up too late on News
Years Eve with knowing I will be getting up very early. But
yet again, we have a ten-hour flight to look forward to. At
the end of the day, when we get to Hawaii it will be an
experience of a lifetime and that is all that matters.
The one part of the trip, which I am most excited for, is
when we visit Pearl Harbor on January 7 on island of Oahu.
As a person who loves history, this is a site, which has a
lot of meaning to me. The reason why I find this site so
interesting is because the attack on Pearl Harbor, on
December 7, 1941 was the key reason why the United States
entered World War II after they believed in isolationism for
so many years.
I look forward to seeing everyone in a couple of weeks on
the unique island of Hawaii for an experience like to other.

1 comment:

Kayla Colbert said...

Hi Zach,
I agree that this semester has gone by fast. It seems like only yesterday our classes were beginning and we still had four months until our trip to Hawaii. Now, we only have two weeks until we leave for what I think will be a trip of a lifetime. This class has opened my eyes and made me realize that the Hawaiian culture consists of more than beautiful weather and beautiful beaches. With all that we have learned so far, I cannot wait until we arrive in Hawaii and learn more about this amazing culture. I am also excited to visit Pearl Harbor as well as you. I have always been fascinated with this historical event in history and I think visiting the site will provide everyone with a new found appreciation for all the men and women who died on December 7, 1941. I hope you enjoy the next two weeks and I will see you on January 1st!!!!!