How Students Can Get Excited About PreservationFebruary 01, 2018

Sydney has Customs House while Melbourne has Manchester Unity Building. Both historical buildings would give visitors more reasons to go around the cities, but locals might not have another look at these so-called familiar sights. In the case of college students, anything not new won't pique their curiosity. It won't get them excited. It won't spur their creative juices.

Preservation is a relevant topic, and it has nothing to do with a tendency to discard anything. As a matter of fact, it might be more important than recycling. (More hands are raised on the conservation of energy, though.) Think of the countless temples in Bali, which define the artistry that attrtact millions of tourists. The number will spiral down if art is hardly visible in the island. You don't need to buy plane tickets to figure it out, as you go around Oz. There's a tremendous effort in preserving man-made structures, which would go back to Australia's early years. Natural attractions aren't far behind. (An indigenous community thrives near Uluru, which points to the bush. If you don't have a clue, then it's time to acquaint with the works of Henry Lawson, Banjo Paterson, and C.J. Dennis.) Your department may include events related to the importance of preservation, but you can also do it on your own. It could be fun to bring along your mates especially if your courses are linked to Australian history (or background on Australian literature).

It's Time To Challenge Yourself

Check out your accommodation. You would have done it before the start of the term, which means you're eager to explore your new place. You're not supposed to look for cobwebs, if not items left behind by past tenants. Take note if the architectural design is anything but new. You can ask around, but you might narrow your choices to History students. You can also inquire those who are pursuing a career in architecture. Make sure that you're genuinely interested in it, as a pretty face might prompt you to impress that student (and nothing else).

Visit the local museum, join a tour. Memories of your younger self would include a visit to a local museum, which may not stir your passion in such things. It's only natural for young minds, but it should make you a bit curious about the place. Why not visit it again? You'll look at it differently, even appreciate the fact that this kind of learning will prompt you to join a city tour. You can organise one, but don't think of a long itinerary. Yet. (Soaring temperature will discourage you to get out.)

Arrange a weekend activity with your family. If you haven't gone beyond Oz, then you must know what sightseeing is all about. It would turn Europe into a playground for travelers, as one region is different from the other. (You didn't inspect the churches closely if you think otherwise.) It also applies to your own backyard, where there are more options than you can think of. If you can't live without getting a sun-kissed moment, then spend a day (or two) on the beach. And then see the places of interest. There's no need to bring a notebook, as you only have to look around. It will be better if your parents (or sibling) is a know-it-all, but a joint discovery doesn't make it less for all of you.

Write a paper about it. If you're a History student, then you'll be expected to discuss it more than once. It will be a challenging task, as its relevance seems to get lost in the concrete jungle. As far as architectural design is concerned, you should discuss how an antiquated structure (or place) will stand out in the skyscrapers. If you're studying English, then there's a likelihood that you must include it in some of your papers. (Think of a backdrop to a novel particularly the ones with Victorian origins. It can be Modernist Literature, if not Gothic fiction.)

Take part in a community project. There will be one in the neighbourhood. If the objectives don't appeal to you, then think how it will look good in your CV. Imagine the people you will meet (and who might be your new mates). If one of your career options is something along this venture, then you can gain valuable network. The benefits go on and on.

How To Deal With The Problematic Part of the Process

This exercise won't cost you lots of dollars, as long as you plan it ahead. It will involve long walks, so bring a brim hat.

If your mates have other plans, then don't be disheartened by it. You can arrange another date, but you can check it out. This will give you ideas, which will help you persuade them (and join your trip).

No one is stopping you from thinking of a project, which can be linked to the funding needed for the preservation of this valuable structures. It can take lots of your time. You may be forced to shell out your own money from your pocket. You might feel disappointed if the outcome doesn't match yours, so think twice about it. You can ask your department if you really want to push it, as your professor(s) can point you to the right people.

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