I don’t think I’ve ever become as aware of courtesy as I have been in my first year of college. It’s not that I wasn’t taught proper etiquette or manners by my parents, but that I haven’t had quite as many opportunities to put it into practice. A good example of this is opening doors for other people. I’ve grown so used to it happening and for doing it for other people, but it’s interesting seeing the politics of it play out.
Something particularly amusing: Watching the expression of an older male student as my 4’11” female self holds the door open. Gender roles, consider yourself challenged.
I leave you with an interesting article about mandated chivalry here. Have at it, and remember we should all open doors for everyone – it’s only fair.
GIVE GUTS 