Character Analysis: The Lords Of Discipline

It is expected that within a span of four years drastic changes can occur to any person. An example of such case is our experience throughout four years of high school or college; it is a time in which each obstacle that we surpass will become an experience that builds character. We have all left our childhood behind, but we have yet to taste the full essence of adulthood. Within these years of being cast astray to find our own paths, it is common for us students to experience regular episodes of anxiety, stress, and crippling self-doubt.
In Pat Conroy’s novel The Lords of Discipline, the story focuses on the main protagonist Will Mclean as he makes his way through his four years at The Citadel. Because Will had promised to attend his dead father’s alma mater, he enrolled into The Citadel— even though he had no interest in a military career. After doubting his ability to survive the rigor of The Citadel and even an unsuccessful attempt to leave, Will decides to tough it

through. During his plebe year, Will dutifully performed all tasks that was asked of him; yet a part of him refused to “accept the validity of this long trial by humiliation”. As expected, the plebe system and the cadre members were merciless toward Will and his fellow cadets, so much so that upon reflection Will stated, “ I saw enough cruelty in that (first) month to last a lifetime, but I was to see a lot more”. Despite all the trials and tribulations, Will survives his plebe year and proceeds to creating an identity for himself as a member of the basketball team and a friend for other misfits at The Citadel. Will holds this identity with him until his senior year, and remains as so until he was betrayed by his closest friend Tradd. It is during his senior year that events will unfold to reveal that the skepticism that Will often felt towards The Citadel were true. In the end, Will Mclean graduated from The Citadel, wiser than ever but without closure; for the ring no longer stands for honor and truth like he once thought it did.
In stark contrast to Will Mclean’s college years, I entered my high school years with great enthusiasm.

I was given a chance to study art at Harrison and I could not be any happier to officially pursue what I love. Having been shy throughout middle school, I saw high school as an opportunity for me to do a one-eighty with my life, to start with a clean slate. By pushing myself to be more open, I quickly made friends and felt like I belonged. Of course this was only the tip of the iceberg; I was not ready for the events that would ensue. Drama would brew amongst “friends” and school work gradually became more difficult. As the years progressed I began to notice a sense of competition amongst my peers and I, which sometimes led me to doubt my own abilities. It was also amidst the stress and anxiety that I discovered my biggest habit and flaw: procrastination. The procrastination cycle is ruthless; I found myself staying up late and losing to do virtually every assignment up until now, senior

year.
For this school year I would like to rid of my procrastination habits, and possibly get more sleep. I plan to stay on top of my grades and make the best out of my senior year. I have decided to pursue art, possibly even before I was conscious of the decision, because I cannot picture myself being content while doing anything else. My first choice when it comes to a college is Ringling College of Art and Design; every other application for other art schools will be out of state—they are my plan B.