The worst distraction I had during my first week of Fall at the University of Oregon occurred when I woke up later than expected for my 10 a.m. Philosophy class. I woke up in a rush and quickly showered and got dressed but did not have time to eat anything before heading out the door. I managed to get on the bus right before it left and arrived to class on time, but the worst was yet to come.
I was one of the first to enter the classroom after the previous group of students finished exiting and was able to get the seat I sat in on the first day of class. As the rest of the students piled in, I sat in silence wondering whether I should skip class to get something to eat or better prepare for these situations by purchasing packs of granola bars the next time I go grocery shopping. The professor entered the classroom and the numerous groups of students talking amongst themselves fell silent. My leg started to shake as it always does when I’m nervous and all I could do was hope my stomach cooperated and remained silent for the remaining two hours of class.
The first twenty minutes went well thanks to the video presentation our professor displayed for us to observe and take notes on, but I could barely focus for the rest of the class. All I could think about was if anyone could hear the rumbling coming from my stomach and how I will never skip breakfast again. I wasn’t able to concentrate on anything that was taught during that class and all I got out of it was attendance points. I haven’t missed breakfast or woken up late since that day and hope I can keep it up for the rest of the term.
What other distractions were cause by the fact that you skipped breakfast that day? I know when I skip breakfast I and much more likely to dose off into space and to day dream. I also have a pretty difficult time actually comprehending what the professor is teaching which is another huge downside of forgetting to eat.
I never realized how much of a distraction hunger was until I read this post. It’s very bizarre to think about how bodily functions can take away from the very idea of paying attention. Also it’s interesting to think when you’re body is on an adrenaline rush it pushes the ideas of bodily needs out the window. All together don’t you think that means class isn’t that important and we shouldn’t have to go? (Totally kidding, just a funny thought)