So You'd Like to be an Architect?

Yesterday, we were once again taken out to lunch by Dr. Chung. This time we went to a Chinese restaurant and were accompanied by 3 of Dr. Chung's students. Two of those students took me to a coffee house last night where we had hot cocoa and conversation. There is such a desire here to learn conversational English.
During the evening, I was reminded of how we take what we have for granted. The two girls had invited a young man along as well - all three, when questioned - explained that they were not in the field of their choice, but one which was chosen for them based on their test scores. They had enjoyed college their freshman year, but once they started taking courses in their major, school became more difficult and less enjoyable. For the two girls in particular, job prospects are slim at best.And yet, everyone studies very hard - it would shame their families, who make great sacrifices, to do otherwise. No one seems to question the logic (or lack thereof) of such an educational system.Consequently, if you have a very high test score, you will perhaps study medicine or law. If your score is lower, you may be slotted into education, social sciences or agriculture, and if you score very low, you will be placed in a program for what we would call,"blue collar" workers. It begs the question of whether or not one can truly excel in a field that holds no personal interest.
In any case, I knew this before I came, but after interacting with these young people, the repercussions become thought-provoking to say the least.
      Meanwhile, Doug is still in an office with a desk and a chair - no computer - no anything. His class starts Friday. All I can think of is how difficult it will be to motivate grad students who may or may not have an interest in soil science. Doug just wants a computer. I think he'll start working back here at the dorm so I decided to get the blog done asap.
     In closing, Doug's line at lunch today, "I wonder what this stuff is? It has holes in it. Here, why don't you try it and see what it is."
And a P.S. to Ellis and Hayden - In Korea, it is expected and even polite to SLURP your noodles!! Very Fun!