Writing Awards

Excitement and anticipation filled the air. Proud students and family members eagerly waited for the University of Dearborn Student Writing Awards ceremony to begin. One lady talked on her phone to her son chatting about Face book. A proud family of four sat enjoying cider and donuts. The girls were dressed in their Sunday best; proud smiles were worn on their faces. The hostess of the refreshment table had to fight off hungry students on their way to other classes.
I took my seat in the presentation room and waited for the event to begin. People began to file in and take their seats. Diversity filled the room; people of all sexes, ages, races, economic status, and ethnicity were present. I would say that their were 70+ in attendance. Snacks were enjoyed by most, as I looked to my left I noticed a “No food or drinks allowed in this room” sign. I chuckled to myself. A sharp dressed, young gentleman walked about the room and greeted students. He must be the presenter I thought to myself. He made his way to the front and stood at the podium. Bleak silence instantly filled the air, all eyes where up front. The gentleman greeted us all and thanked us for joining in the celebration. A few other staff members greeted us as well. Presentations were beginning. The first category was Poetry. 1st place went to a student for the poem titled “Hitchhiker.” That piece was amazing, probably less than10 words, yet straight to the point with a twist. I was thinking it was going to be about some lonely man out on the streets, but no it was about a bird, astounding. Another piece that still remains in my mind was “Swing on the Spiral.” The author did not read her piece, but another professor. I could relate to this story from my younger angry adolecsent years. I think we have all been there. An older gentleman was sitting behind me and after the reading, he said “ I did not understand that at all.” I just laughed to myself.
All in all it was an incredible experience. Some students were proud and boisterous and others proud yet timid all very talented students.