Despite being off work this week so I can study and complete my exams I’m still receiving lists of “emergency” issues to deal with.  I’d tell you how I really feel about the situation but I’m trying to clean up my language these days.

As for today’s exam – I read the textbook and readings, studied all the guides, did the practice quizzes… and spent the 3 hour exam guessing at the answers. I recognized NOTHING on my exam. Ok, so it wasn’t that bad but it certainly felt like it when I was writing it.  This is not a good sign. The essay questions didn’t seem to be based on past papers or the contents of the quizzes and study guide questions. Usually I exit the exams with a certainty that I passed – even if I don’t think I did that well on it.  No such reaction after today’s exam. Here’s hoping I at least squeaked out 50% so I don’t have to retake the Enviro Chem class.

We spent the evening at the pre-deployment briefing for Drew’s tour. From my perspective it felt like a complete waste of time. I know that their services are valuable for some members and families but ours isn’t one of them. I work full time and we have no children. Most, if not all, of the services offer nothing that I can or would ever make use of. Having been through similar briefings in the past, I didn’t learn anything new at this one.

The fact that the briefing was made mandatory – as opposed to optional – made it seem patronizing. I was insulted that I’m not considered to be adult enough, or intelligent enough, to determine whether or not I need to attend a meeting outlining the available services. Too bad they didn’t have a 360 review and didn’t  solicit feedback from those who attended.  I met a few others who also felt the briefing was a waste of their precious time. I think they might have been surprised at any feedback they received. Of course, first they would have to be open to receiving feedback from those they are supposedly serving…

I certainly could have used those two plus hours studying for my next exam.

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