University of Massachusetts Amherst - Index Yearbook (Amherst, MA)

Page 23 text:

.ALUABLE INDEX:— Last, though not least, ' 8i pre- sents her small contribution. Our experiences are limited, as our time here has been short. Yet the foretaste of college life is an agreeable one. Among the interesting impressions and events, are those pertaining to the upper-classmen, who seem to regard us Freshmen as so much raw material to be worked over at will. The Seniors are evidently trying to give us the impression that they have absorbed all the advantages of the college; consequently, are puffed up with pride and self-assurance. They strut and fret their brief hour with martial, but unnatural, dignity, as they endeavor to inspire us with their sublime gra ndeur. Seniors, we would modestly suggest moderation and sim- plicity, since the one lends grace, and the other beauty, of manners. The Juniors are more considerate, and seem not to forget that they were once Freshmen. Having instructed and assisted us in some of the arts of college life, we appreciate their kindness. The Sophs., at first opposed, now quietly concede to us the rights of students. Not, however, without an attempt to bring us into submission. This attempt was in the customary rush. Twice were they beaten, and so completely that they have since entertained for us a profound respect. We began the te m with nineteen members, and have since increased to twenty five. Enough to create and continue the best of class feeling and mutual good will.

Page 22 text:

THE INDEX. We see no reason why we should not progress rapidly under such an able corps of Professors, at whose head is our beloved President, just returned from his college in Japan. For our own part, we are well pleased with our experiences so far at the M A. C. , and in the future years may we be able to say that we do not regret having entered with the class of ' 80. F.

Page 24 text:

THE INDEX. Our connection with the college and professors is an ex- ceedingly pleasant one. Our course of instruction is highly appreciated, since we realize the practicability of the same. Military duty is generally enjoyed, and with a few cor- rections, we promise well Class work has its physical, as well as practical, advantages. All in all considered, we greatly enjoy our beginning. But, classmates, let us not forget the real object of our course; realizing that object, let us strive to attain the highest perfection in it, for upon the present our success in the future depends. The foundations well laid, the superstructure will be easy. If we have any vices, let us abandon them — now, that our characters, as well as our minds, may be improved; for in abandoning vices, we embrace virtues. Let us by our conduct show that we fully understand the scriptural warning, As we sow, so shall we reap.