Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) 1971-1972

As my first year at LMU wound to a close, I decided to stay a second year to complete my prerequisites for college graduation. Then I planned to transfer to another university to enroll in journalism courses. I had my sights set on the University of Oregon, impressed by the curriculum of their School of Journalism. However, I did question one of their requirements: typing twenty-five words a minute with no mistakes on a manual typewriter. What a waste of time. I’ll never use this, I recall thinking. Since LMU offered a typing class, I decided to get this basic under my belt. Between studies and my involvement with the campus newspaper, The Blue and Gray, my second year seemed to fly by. Toward the end of the semester, I applied to the University of Oregon, packed up for summer vacation, and said a sad goodbye to my friends and roommate at LMU.

Panama City, Panama

During 1972, my father had been transferred to Panama City, Panama, so in early June I arrived in the country to spend the summer. The highlight of the trip was a visit to the Panama Canal, watching the massive ships pass through the locks as they made their way from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. In early August, I received good news: I had been accepted to the University of Oregon School of Journalism. I was now—officially—a Duck.

Next week:  “University of Oregon: Eugene, 1972-1974.”