Master of Misfortune Degree From The School Of Hard Knocks Reflects Hard Times

Online, May 3, 2010 (Newswire.com) - As unemployment soars one man has created work for himself by spreading a message of hope and humor. Rob Wilson knows all about recession depression. During the last recession in the late 80's and early 90's he lost his job, lost his home and then his fiance left him. As Wilson lamented his situation over a beer with friends, he declared, "I feel like I have been through 'the school of hard knocks.' I deserve a diploma."

Inspiration struck! Wilson created and copyrighted a diploma and logo for The School of Hard Knocks and opened a business to market them, School of Hard Knocks Gifts. He sold Master of Misfortune degrees and Alumni t-shirts as a gag gift for those going though hard times and as gifts for Birthdays, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Anniversaries and other occasions that could use a little humor and satire. He felt there were probably a growing number of recent and some forgotten graduates out there who should be given a degree too.

When the recent economic crash hit, he knew enrollment would skyrocket. It was time to reopen the doors of school and enrollment too. He came out of hibernation, revamped his online store and booked himself into art and craft festivals, bike rallies, and community fairs. He hoped to spread a little satirical humor, hope and inspiration to others who have or are about to experience hard times.

Wilson says, "I have had a good response to my diplomas and Alumni t-shirts. Folks seem to get a kick out of them and it seems to help them laugh at their misfortune. They need some cheering up." Even the price is recession friendly. Tuition is just $20. Self-appointed grads receive a Master of Misfortune degree and Alumni t-shirt. The diplomas are signed by tenured faculty members like Rock Bottom, Ima Broke, Ben Hurt and Noah Luck. The diploma comes with the official school seal and can be personalized with the grads name and year of graduation. It is sure to add class to anyone's home, shop, office or prison cell.

As an Alumni and strong booster of The School of Hard Knocks, Wilson brings a message of hope and humor to those experiencing the same hard luck and doubts as he did. Today, the semi-retired Vietnam vet has bounced back and feels very fortunate to live comfortably on his own "little piece of paradise" next to a crystal-clear spring-fed river. "I'm an optimist at heart." says Wilson. "I believe that life has taught me it is better to laugh at misfortune, the other option just makes things worse. Often today's misfortune is tomorrow's humor. I want the humor and satire in my products to bring hope and inspiration to others going though bad times." To under score this, Wilson points to the tag lines on his t-shirts "Learning To Cope, Restored My Hope" and "Learn To Thrive, Not Just Survive".

Just like the river that rolls by his home, Wilson's hope springs eternal! "My hope is that the diplomas and t-shirts become as successful as the pet rock," he announces. "And if things go well, I hope to employ some of my fellow vets who are homeless and help them get back on their feet. If I can come back, anyone can." Wilson is proof of the old adage that by going through The School of Hard Knocks one can learn more about life than attending any other university. Graduation is cause for celebration!

School of Hard Knocks
Rob Wilson: Dean of Graduations and Celebrations
Contact at: [email protected]
Visit Student Union at: http://www.schoolofhardknocksgifts.com