November 8-9, 2009

We left at 1:00 Sunday afternoon and headed for Beloit, WI. On the way, I realized that I have never been to Wisconsin before. The campus of Beloit College was within walking distance to the Illinois state line, but I made it to WI for the first time in my 43 years of living!

The campus of Beloit College is beautiful. I felt a comfort similar to that of when I drive through the gate of Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods College. It is a peaceful, quiet, contemplative campus.The campus has art sporadically placed throughout the grounds.
Gazebo for one Anarchist, Emma Goldman. I can see Pher sitting in there and reading or thinking.Some sort of cool looking bird sculpture.Indian mounds that cover treasures. The college has hosted archaeological digs, but the mounds are now protected. Artifacts are displayed in the Logan Museum on campus.Beautiful architecture also reminded me of SMWC.The campus has beautiful old buildings and it also has an impressive brand new LEED certified (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Science Building. If accepted, I see Pher spending much time in this building.The picure above shows an outdoor study area. On nice days a class may choose to meet outside in the circle and surrounding benches. The landscaping allows rain water to run off the hill and water marsh-friendly plant-life at the bottom of the hill and built into the wooden patio. One of the best things about this college is a statement made by the Director of Admissions during his Sunday night talk. He was giving a synopsis of what type of student thrives at Beloit College. He stated that a student that, "Enjoys challenging teachers...is the right student for Beloit College." We all know and love Pher for his ability to debate and challenge. OK... maybe I don't "love" that so much, but I sure do respect his ability to stand up for what he believes to be true. I'm grateful that Beloit embraces this type of student. Carroll High School discourages and squashes any kind of intellectual debate. I think that's one reason he is on their radar and frequently targeted as a "trouble-maker."
I'm too tired tonight tp post about Knox College. Sorry to leave you hanging, but it will have to wait until Saturday. Todd and I have plans for Friday night. I won't have the time or energy to post by the time we will get home on Friday. One disadvantage of aging is the lethargy that is setting in.