UHK
By Glenn A. Hascall
Summary
A monolgue that takes a look at an institute of higher education that we
all must attend - whether we want to or not. This dramatic reading invites
others to identify with the need for friendship at U.H.K. (University of
Hard Knocks).
Characters
READER (Male or female).
Script
READER: I can't remember exactly when I enrolled, but it was a long time
ago. In fact now that I think about it, I didn't actually enroll - someone
else signed me up and I haven't been able to get out of the educational loop
yet.
I guess I have learned a lot in my decades long relationship with this school,
but it's frustrating not to be able to sign up for classes I would like to
take. I'm put in classes that I never would have signed up for and I'm forced
to learn things that I wish I didn't have to.
What's really unique about this institute of higher education is that I have
one Teacher, but many instructors. In fact, just when I think I know who
is providing the lesson, another instructor takes over and they never teach
the same way.
Then there are the tests. I'm never told when I will need to take one. At
the most peculiar times an exam is required and I'm forced to take it whether
I'm ready or not.
Talk about lonely. In most of my classes it seems that I am the only student
enrolled, but when I fail a test (and I've failed many) it appears that everyone
knows about it. There are those who willingly share the burden of failure,
while others don't even try to hide their disdain.
I am told that graduation day could come at any time, but many of those attending
UHK are well past retirement age.
Somehow it just doesn't seem fair. I know many people who have attended other
colleges and they graduate in just a few years. Yet I wonder if I'll ever
get beyond the freshman courses. But then again, I have seen others
here that have attended other colleges and universities. They are going through
the some of the same courses I am going through.
I'm beginning to think that everyone must attend UHK at some point in their
lives. I've seen my dad and mom here as well as my children. Even my wife/husband
tells me about the classes she's/he's taking.
Occasionally I attend classes at my place of employment, other times in locations
as diverse as a city street, while talking on the telephone, or at the scene
of an accident. Sometimes my entire family attends the same class at the
same time and some do better on the tests than others.
I never would have chosen to attend UHK, but I know I'm a better person because
of it. In fact, I have even been allowed to be an instructor in a few cases.
Surprisingly, I'm not exactly thrilled with being an instructor either. Sometimes
my children must attend my classes and it breaks my heart when they fail
a course, but they have passed some crucial exams and I am very proud of
them.
Perhaps I'll see you around the hallowed halls of this institution for we
need each other here at the University of Hard Knocks.
(Fade to black )
.....................................................
Copyright 2003 by Glenn A. Hascall
Should you use this script, would you be so kind as to let us know? glenn.hascall<a>gmail.com