When Friday evening rolled around, I headed off to meet up with Tim and his two friends. I found the room where we were all to meet and knocked on the door...no answer. That's strange I thought to myself. Tim is a pretty reliable guy. Maybe he can explain.
Saturday morning the campus awoke to the news that two freshmen, Nick and Chris, were found by campus police passed out drunk on the grass behind their dorm. A search of their room discovered two empty bottles of Tango screwdriver drink.
They'll be gone within hours.
The college had a strict policy of absolutely no drugs or alcohol on campus. The penalty for any infraction was immediate expulsion. No second chance, no appeal, no exceptions.
I guess I won't need any explanation from Tim.
I finally admitted to myself that I really don't like it here...the regimentation, the isolation, the boredom. I've got to make changes.
I told my parents that I will be coming home at the end of this semester and won't return for the spring semester.. I will live at home, enroll for classes at the local community college, and look for a small part-time job.
I informed the administration of my decision and filled out the required paperwork.
When I walked out of the administration building I felt like the weight of the world had just been lifted off my shoulders. My internal mood changed substantially...for the good.
Some of my classmates expressed disappointment that I was leaving. Most understood and wished me well.
The days passed quickly. The mornings now had a noticeable chill, the surrounding hills were changing colors, shirts and blouses gave way to coats and jackets.
The Wednesday before Thanksgiving saw a beehive of activity as students were being picked up by parents, boarding shuttles to bus, train, and airport points of departure. By three o'clock the campus was nearly deserted.
Thanksgiving day dawned bright, clear, and crisp. I actually enjoyed the walk to the dining hall for the limited breakfast service. A dinner would be served at 2PM and a light soup and sandwich service at 7PM.
I decided to take a walk around the campus as I pretty much had the run of it to myself.
Near the arts building I ran into my psychology professor: Mr. McConnel. He expressed surprise seeing me and asked if I was staying on campus for the break. When I told I was, he suggested I come to his place after dinner and we could watch some football. As I had nothing else to do I agreed.
James Edward McConnel was around six foot tall, medium build, sandy hair, pleasant face and a quick smile. He had an easygoing personality, open and approachable.
I arrived at his apartment about 2:30. He let me in, took my jacket and offered me a soft drink.
