During one of the most memorable occasions of our lives, Syracuse classes were not canceled. This was shocking to students as Syracuse prides itself on being a school exceptionally responsive to current events and world affairs, especially those that will undoubtedly change the course of our daily lives. Even as a freshman in my first communications course, we were required to follow daily news stories and current events. As far as this year’s election went, students were intensely involved with or without classroom requirements. As I peered over a student’s 15-inch laptop during the final twenty minutes of an English class to see a glimpse of the ceremony, a favor from the Professor, squinting to see anything, I felt resentful that this is where I had to be during Obama’s induction. Even though some other Professors also allowed the inauguration to be played during a segment of the class period, it seems hypocritical to teach students about historical events and life-altering occasions and still regard a momentous event as one unworthy of a morning class cancellation.

photo image: ft.com