Yesterday was the first American politics General exam meeting. Yikes, the reading list is huge. In essence, we have to read 60 books in 90 days. Given that I read half a book yesterday, but it was for class and not generals, I think I’m already behind. Sigh…so much for any Spring Break plans.
I’m going to try and put up a counter that permanently displays at the top of this page and tracks my progress, but for now, here’s what I have to do:
- Core list: 32 books
- Public Opinion: 13 books, 11 articles
- Political Psychology: 10 books, 21 articles
- Legislative Institutions: 5 books, 17 articles
- Plus review Formal and Quant
(I’m sure I miscounted, so future reports will be more accurate.)
In happier news, my favorite DC United player earned his first international cap yesterday. On July 14th, 2004, I watched D.C. United defeat Nottingham Forest in person and spotted 22-year-old midfielder Josh Gros as incredibly poised on the ball and as a pinpoint ball distributor. His calm, selfless play led me to adopt him as my personal favorite.
Yesterday, the U.S. shut-out Mexico in an international friendly, 2-0. Gros came on as a sub in the 68th minute and played right back, which is a more defensive position than his usual midfield role. Unfortunately, he didn’t look too comfortable on defense, as the Mexican left wing beat Gros several times over the game’s last 20 minutes. However, I thought Gros distributed the ball well and he won a couple of headers, demonstrating why he belongs more in the attacking end of the field. Perhaps with a bit more time, Gros will earn a starting spot in the midfield. But, for now, I’m just happy to see him represent the US.
