The University of Memphis is showing signs of normalcy following the turbulent and tense period of unrest of the last two weeks.
The U of M’s football team unleashed an offensive attack in a nail-biting victory against South Florida last Saturday. The fall theatrical season is kicking into full swing, and the Tiger Den is boasting an increase in food sales.
But has the campus really resumed a state of normalcy?
Charissa Camp, a psychology professor at The U of M for the psychological counseling unit, said since the tragic events of Sept. 11, president Raines and faculty have guided the students towards resuming a normal daily routine.
“President Raines did a great job by sending out a timely message to the campus encouraging people to talk about the tragedy and pass no judgment on people because of their race and religion,” Camp said.
Healing is a long process and students must remember to take care of themselves, according to Camp.
“These things take time,” Camp said. “At a time like this, students must keep their mind on self-care.”
Nicole Begg, a graduate assistant of psychology, said some behavioral changes from the tragedy are only temporary.
“Right now the patriotism is part of the grieving, and people will remain somewhat patriotic in the future,” Begg said. “But over time the patriotic behavior will decrease.”
Begg added most Americans fear national security, but America should get back to the daily grind.
“The most important thing to do is get back to a normal routine,” Begg said.
Eventually the country will return to everyday life, she added. “We are going to get back to normal.”
Some U of M students, such as Monika Shelton, an anthropology major, said the transition to getting back to a normal routine is almost complete.
“The University of Memphis was mostly effected emotionally by the attacks,” Shelton said. “That is why it will be easier to get back to normal.”
Some students, including computer science major Jesse Swann, said what is normal on campus has changed forever.
“I see it all around the campus. Students are starting to take more pride in their country and themselves,” Swann said.
Natalie McGregor, a communication major, said there is a definite attitude change among students.
“People are more open and say their feelings in class now,” McGregor said.
Professors encouraging discussions on the tragic events and the expression of opinions in class have helped students to overcome the tragedy, according to McGregor.
“As soon as a teacher brought up the subject, nearly all the students began to talk,” McGregor said. “I think that helped students get out their feelings.”
In addition to returning to normal activities, U of M students have attended the numerous unity forums and patriotic events held recently, as well as develop an awareness of foreign affairs which has helped to vent some of the frustration and anger following the attack.
“Now students are more concerned about what is going on outside the United States. That awareness will be good for the campus,” Shelton said.
