Every student dreams of acing an exam with minimal effort, but few could have imagined it would be as simple as throwing a crumpled piece of paper into a trash can.
That’s precisely the scenario students at Ohio State University’s organic chemistry class experience each year, thanks to Dr. Christopher Callam, a beloved professor known for turning the pressure of exams into a moment of pure excitement.
Dr. Callam has made it a tradition to challenge his students to a seemingly impossible task: if one student can sink a paper ball into a trash can from across the room, the entire class receives a 100% grade on the exam.
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It’s an act of goodwill wrapped in a nerve-wracking display of skill—or sometimes luck.
This annual tradition has become a staple of the class and a symbol of the camaraderie and tension-release needed in the often overwhelming environment of organic chemistry.
Organic chemistry is notorious for being one of the toughest subjects in the undergraduate curriculum, with demanding coursework and intricate concepts.
Dr. Callam’s lighthearted challenge provides a fun, unorthodox reprieve from the usual grind of studying.
When a student does make the shot, the reaction is always the same—an eruption of joy and relief among the classmates.
One video capturing this moment, which has since gone viral, showcases the intense buildup before the shot, followed by cheers and laughter as the paper ball lands perfectly in the trash can.
The atmosphere is electric, and for a moment, everyone in the room forgets the pressure of their academic responsibilities.
The reactions online have been as enthusiastic as those in the classroom. One commenter said, “You know that guy is still smirking in his bed every once in a while thinking about this moment.”
It’s a fitting observation for the thrill of achieving something not only for oneself but for an entire class.
That single shot, in a way, transforms a student into a hero, and the memory lingers long after the final grade is posted.
Another commenter humorously added, “The kid that didn’t study and failed that test was most definitely the dude that said ‘Oh!’ right before it went in.”
It’s a relatable take on the mix of emotions in that room—elation for some and perhaps a bit of envy for those who may have counted on the challenge to help their grades.
For many, the most poignant response came from someone who observed, “You can hear the genuine happiness in their voices. Not all heroes wear capes, some of them throw a paper ball into the trash bin so the whole class gets 100%.”
This comment beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the event. It’s not just about the academic relief but the shared experience that unites the students.
Dr. Callam’s challenge represents more than just a fun game at the end of a stressful semester.
It’s a reminder that sometimes, in the face of difficult challenges, a little bit of fun and hope can go a long way.
For students, it’s a moment that transcends the material they’ve been studying and taps into something deeper—a shared sense of triumph and community.
In a world where academics often come with intense pressure and competition, Dr. Callam’s tradition offers a refreshing perspective.
It’s a testament to the power of small gestures and how a moment of levity can lift the spirits of an entire class.
Whether or not students ace the next exam, the memory of that paper ball soaring through the air will surely stay with them, reminding them that even in the most challenging times, there’s room for a little magic.
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