It's not that there are no creative types in higher education. It's that the ladder of modern education requires a level of organization and type-A memorization that often purges the system of the purely creative mind. Think back to high school. Perhaps this is a fallacy, but I remember far more artists, musicians and drama geeks — people who, while they tested poorly and … [Read more...] about Education without Borders
culture
The Cost of My Skyline: A Reflection on Shanghai
Answering where I call home is always tricky. As I say “Shanghai,” rhyming it with an American vernacular to “Slang-high,” I grimace and anticipate the shock. “Wow, your English is really amazing,” is usually the first response. Following a series of “Wow, were you adopted?” or “Did you come here when you were really young?” I finish the song and dance of explaining that … [Read more...] about The Cost of My Skyline: A Reflection on Shanghai
Why I Won’t Stop Talking About Race
When will we discontinue our insertion of race into every American political conflict or into every American social injustice? On the surface, Pepperdine is a welcoming and appreciative community. Promoted in the charismatic catalogues we browse before applying and some personal encounters with fellow Waves, Pepperdine generally demonstrates sincere interest in its … [Read more...] about Why I Won’t Stop Talking About Race
In the Name of Diversity
Art by Xander Hayes When abroad, Pepperdine students often speak of homesickness. For 9.95 percent of Seaver, that is a constant reality. According to the admissions website, this 9.95 percent of international students hail mainly from China (28.97 percent), Indonesia (10.34 percent), South Korea (7.97 percent), Canada (4.83 percent) and India (3.10 percent). For an … [Read more...] about In the Name of Diversity
I’m black and I’m in a war
Editor’s Note: Each week, The Joshua Gray “GRAYDE” column will present a collection of opinions based on Gray’s personal experiences “grayding” current cultural perceptions and challenging our societal progression toward a better future. I’m in a war. I’m a black man. I’m in a war that neither the majority of Pepperdine nor the majority of America has fought. I’m an … [Read more...] about I’m black and I’m in a war