This piece is as much reflections on my education as a continuing graduate student as well as my role as a history and social studies teacher at an independent Waldorf high school. Scandals like last year's Operation Varsity Blues bring to the fore the role of socioeconomic status and inequality at elite institutions of higher … Continue reading How My Family Helped Me Break Into the Ivy League (The Short Version)
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Introduction to My Latest
Welcome to my professional page. I’m Stephen McDonald. I am, in no order of consequence: a writer, a photographer, an explorer, an Americanist cultural and historical scholar, a Progressive Christian and a devoted father a much beloved daughter. (Maybe the best for last!) This page will include my thoughts, queries, musings and links to my … Continue reading Introduction to My Latest
“The New Colossus” in the Age of “Shithole Countries”
Jimmy Carter was President when I was born. He was the Sunday School teacher who wore sweaters when it was chilly, carried his own bags and had no real discernible ideology other than a commitment to peace. As a child, I don't ever remember hearing, "That might be how President [George H.W.] Bush talks but … Continue reading “The New Colossus” in the Age of “Shithole Countries”
It’s Really Happening.
Good day, all! I'm celebrating another small victory, or perhaps large victory. A little more than one year ago, I set out to return to school and complete my degree with the ambition of continuing onwards to law school. Last weekend, I took my Law School Admission Test, or LSATs. Three hours of problem solving … Continue reading It’s Really Happening.
Las Vegas and “The Mindless Menace of Violence”
https://youtu.be/hhANTymDIYk When I saw this on the news, I was as stunned and speechless as many of you. And before the smoke even clears, the political debate begins with wild accusations and even crazier conspiracies. I was a freshman in college when the Columbine shooting happened. When the Sandy Hook shooting happened, and, yes, … Continue reading Las Vegas and “The Mindless Menace of Violence”
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A Great Semester … Summer time!!!
Why do I keep the Serenity Prayer on my blog? The Serenity Prayer is a constant reminder of the three things the God can provide: Peace, Strength and Wisdom. That through the Lord Jesus Christ - through the strength, serenity and wisdom that His teaching provides - are all things possible. I have returned to … Continue reading A Great Semester … Summer time!!!
The Study 