William Kamkwamba, co-author of this year’s Common Reading Program selection The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, generated an enthusiastic standing ovation from students, parents, and university staff who listened to his inspiring story at this fall’s Convocation on August 20. In his book and Convocation address, Kamkwamba chronicled how he designed and built a windmill from scavenged parts in a local dump to generate electricity for his family’s home and farm in Malawi. He persevered amidst a devastating famine and ongoing ridicule from his villagers. Over the day and a half he spent speaking to various groups at UF, Kamkwamaba’s message to students was to believe in their dreams and never give up despite the odds. Based on feedback from some of the small group book discussions that took place following the Convocation ceremony, it’s a message that resonated with many of UF’s new freshmen.
‘Harnessing Your Passion’ is a central theme of this year’s CRP book selection. As such, the Dean of Students Office has scheduled events this fall to help freshmen find and keep their passion for learning and discovery alive. These events will be promoted within First Year Florida classes, but the academic advising community can also help connect students to them. More details about the speakers and content of each program can be found on the Dean of Students Office web site.
• Mzungu in Malawi: Experiencing Drought, Community, and Family as a Peace Corps Volunteer
Thursday, September 16th, 7pm
Location: Reitz Union Rion Ballroom
• Harnessing Your Entrepreneurial Passion
Monday, September 27th, 7pm
Location: Reitz Union Rion Ballroom
• Museum Nights featuring the Common Reading Program
Thursday, October 14th, 6pm-9pm
Location: Harn Museum of Art
• You Without Borders
Tuesday, November 2nd, 6:30pm
Location: Reitz Union Grand Ballroom
Students who attend CRP events will check-in by having their Gator1 ID card swiped, which triggers their attendance to be logged in an online passport. Students who attend at least four events this fall (including Convocation) will enter a drawing for a study abroad application fee waiver worth up to $250. Students may also continue the conversation started in their book group discussions by entering an essay contest this fall. Contest guidelines are posted online.
The DSO site also features a discussion guide and video clips, which may serve as a valuable resource for FYF instructors looking for ways to integrate the book into their classes.
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