Attending the Metropolitan Museum of Art was an eye-opening experience for me. I still don't think I fully appreciate the opportunites we as Macaulay Honors Scholars have. The chance to go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in general is amazing in itself. But we as scholars have the chance to visit the museum for free, whenever we please. I took the opportunity to visit the MOMA after our visit at Carneige Hall with the art director. There were many exhibitions being held at the MOMA, but we (Sara, Ross, and I) decided to take a look at the Monet's Water Lillies exhibition.

My first experience at Carneige Hall was definitely something I will keep in my memory. The Chinese inspired music still flows in my ears. Viewing the five pieces that composed the program we saw that night reminded me of one thing: the cinema. As we discussed in class, I felt I was viewing a horror film throughout most of the program. It began with the first piece. The gentleman walked out on stage, smiling, and sat down in his seat. Then all of a sudden, as if someone shouted "Action!," he completely transformed into character.

I do not know if everyone considers film an art, but I definitely do. If art is self-expression, it is the director, the screenwriter, and everyone else apart of the movie's team that is attempting to convey a message. If I had to pick any movie that convey an amazing message, Rent would be at the top of my list. Rent is my favorite film I have seen to date. A musical set in 1989-1990 New York City, this film details one year in the life of eight friends. Seven of which who are non-conformists, struggle with the hardships of life--poverty, hunger, drugs, and even AIDS.

I am so glad that I attended Joseph O'Conner's presentation. I found so much interest not only in his writing, but also in his charisma and the way he spoke. It completely intrigued me how articulate he was. I seem to note in many Irish accents how articulate their speech is, but O'Conner caught me even more by suprise. Just by the way he spoke, I automatically gained the upmost respect for him. I believe O'Conner is an excellent writer. As he read various readings from his novels and poems, I was fully engaged in what he was saying.