Music, music, and more music. I can NEVER get enough of it. I've played drums since 5th grade and rapped as a hobby since 6th. My mind is always playing the most recent ear worm that has burrowed its way into my cranium. I have heard and played so many loud rim-shots from snare drums( and those were marching drums, so you know how noisy I'm talking about), that I think I may be going deaf before the age of 22. I usually keep a pair of drumsticks and headphones in my bag in case I get the urge to play. It is an addiction for me, although a positive one. So what to do with my musical talents that I've been blessed with now that I graduated high school? My marching band career is over for me, especially now since I had torn my ACL. That doesn't mean the music died as well, right?
Now that I'm going to college, I'm weighing my options on how to continue my music career. There's a common saying that, "if you don't use it, you lose it." I don't want that to be case and I'll develop "rusty chops." ( lose musical dexterity) Maybe I should join the pep band or take up Music Appreciation? Are there any other musical clubs I can join? Maybe I could just create my own musical club on campus and leave my own mark? I remember discussing music in class with my friend David and him suggesting that maybe we could form a band. Now, that actually sounds like a good idea. Regardless of it happening or not, I know I still want to stay musically involved in campus. Another friend of mine named Shaneika told me about the music-writing software called Finale. I heard of it before, but never looked into it. I downloaded it and found it to very helpful for composing my own music. I'm thinking of using it to just write compositions as a hobby and to write out parts so I can help out my high school drum-line with cadences. No matter what I do in college, I will make certain that music keeps an integral part of my college experience.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Relationships
Inevitably, you will be building relationships with your guy friends, girl friends, professors, roommates, and classmates. Whether those relationships become positive or negative, is an interesting thought. The general rule for everyone you meet is to, "treat everyone else like you want to be treated." Treat professors with the prestige that they deserve and your grades will remain untouched. Classmates need to be treated professionally(even if they are friends) since you can think of them as future work-buddies with a common goal- learning(just like projects in the office.) Try to befriend room mates so they become like brothers. And then there is always a question on how to treat the ladies...
Always treat girl friends with chivalry. If everything's platonic, then make sure both of you are aware of it. Romantic feelings don't always have to exist but you can have just as much as a love-hate relationship with them as you would a sister. Remember to compliment them, hold doors, make them laugh more, be mature in their presence. All these can also be applied to dating in college when you do feel that romantic connection.
Honestly, I was never one for dating (even now I'm single) but I still know how to treat a girl...excuse me, young lady. In college, females, most of them, are way more mature than those high-school girls you're used to seeing. They know what they want out of life. They are there for an education, but on the way, may just so happen to find a guy they like along the way. One thing I always remember when talking to "ladies" is to just be myself. College students are always attempting to change their personality in order to feel accepted. Just don't gamble with trying to change yourself in order to force a romantic relationship with someone. Naturally take on that kind of relationship with someone you "truly" like(not just for one thing) for their personality, and attractive qualities as a person. Chemistry will click when you find that Mr. Right or Ms. Right so take your time and explore the huge dating pool presented before you in college. You never know who that special someone may turn out to be.
Always treat girl friends with chivalry. If everything's platonic, then make sure both of you are aware of it. Romantic feelings don't always have to exist but you can have just as much as a love-hate relationship with them as you would a sister. Remember to compliment them, hold doors, make them laugh more, be mature in their presence. All these can also be applied to dating in college when you do feel that romantic connection.
Honestly, I was never one for dating (even now I'm single) but I still know how to treat a girl...excuse me, young lady. In college, females, most of them, are way more mature than those high-school girls you're used to seeing. They know what they want out of life. They are there for an education, but on the way, may just so happen to find a guy they like along the way. One thing I always remember when talking to "ladies" is to just be myself. College students are always attempting to change their personality in order to feel accepted. Just don't gamble with trying to change yourself in order to force a romantic relationship with someone. Naturally take on that kind of relationship with someone you "truly" like(not just for one thing) for their personality, and attractive qualities as a person. Chemistry will click when you find that Mr. Right or Ms. Right so take your time and explore the huge dating pool presented before you in college. You never know who that special someone may turn out to be.
Rest
Today was my last day of summer school at Denmark Tech and I can say I enjoyed the ride while it lasted. I met a couple of cool people that I'm glad to have come across. I can say that at least I have those memories to go by for the rest of my summer. I've "driven the bus"( my Pacer friends know what I mean) down this first road of college for 4 quick weeks and now I'm finally approaching a yellow light. I say a yellow light instead of a red light because my summer work is not over; it has only downshifted. Before I can completely come to a stop, I must still read The Other Wes Moore this summer before Freshman Convocation on August 20th. This doesn't even bother me, because it sounded like an interesting read. The book isn't even lengthy ( only around 180 pages) so reading it will take no time at all. Only after reading, will I be completely able to come to a halt.
Technically, my summer was only 2 weeks before getting back to work. Now that I am going to be stuck at home again until Mid-August, I think I'll be bored out of my mind. I actually liked those classes because they gave me a reason to leave the house. Since that reason is now gone, I guess it's back to restless nights on the Xbox, sleeping until noon, and lamenting how boring this town is. Ironic as this may sound, this is my way of "resting" from my summer classes.
Rest is something everything college student needs. This doesn't always mean sleeping but it is anything you make of it as taking a break from something. Resting can be whatever comes to mind for "break-time." Just remember not to rest too long, because if you do, it will be hard to upshift back into work mode. That is the mode every college student should always have a mind to transition into.
Technically, my summer was only 2 weeks before getting back to work. Now that I am going to be stuck at home again until Mid-August, I think I'll be bored out of my mind. I actually liked those classes because they gave me a reason to leave the house. Since that reason is now gone, I guess it's back to restless nights on the Xbox, sleeping until noon, and lamenting how boring this town is. Ironic as this may sound, this is my way of "resting" from my summer classes.
Rest is something everything college student needs. This doesn't always mean sleeping but it is anything you make of it as taking a break from something. Resting can be whatever comes to mind for "break-time." Just remember not to rest too long, because if you do, it will be hard to upshift back into work mode. That is the mode every college student should always have a mind to transition into.
Always Be Cautious
So you finally moved into your dorm. Maybe you roomed with friends from high school or played Russian Roulette by picking a dorm of completely random people. But there is nothing wrong with leaving the outcome of potential roommates and friends up to fate. You may develop a lifelong friendship and eventually become as close as brothers. Even with your old friend you're rooming with, you may become even closer and may already be trusting each other with your lives and belongings.
This level of trust won't come at first sight for those people you just met. Even if you are that trusting of people, remember not to be too gullible and receptive. Treat your roommates with respect as well as their belongings, but at first, don't be too trusting of them with your stuff. Don't leave your stuff (especially valuables) lying around your dorm and remember to keep locks on everything. Sleep with your toothbrush, phone, and wallet in your pillowcase so no one else can tamper with them Maybe that's just me being paranoid, but it would work... at least until you learn more about their true nature. You never know whether your roommates are dependable individuals or if they are the slickest of thieves.
New roommates aren't the only people you need to watch, but everyone around campus as well. I know, I know- No one's paying attention to that expensive laptop you momentarily left in the cafeteria filled with witnesses while you went to get a refill. But how about that notebook or pen you forgot in your Biology class? See, no thief will go for the obvious baits like high-profile gadgets and personalized smartphones. Instead thieves can go for stuff taken for granted which adds up over time. Laptop locks are still safe to have, but what about if you don't have anything to write with in class? One college hack I learned was to always switch the caps of your favorite blue/black pens with red ones since no one ever steals a red pen. Small countermeasures like those, will make sure you aren't robbed of materials in class, and therefore an education. So always stay mindful about keeping up with your possessions.
This level of trust won't come at first sight for those people you just met. Even if you are that trusting of people, remember not to be too gullible and receptive. Treat your roommates with respect as well as their belongings, but at first, don't be too trusting of them with your stuff. Don't leave your stuff (especially valuables) lying around your dorm and remember to keep locks on everything. Sleep with your toothbrush, phone, and wallet in your pillowcase so no one else can tamper with them Maybe that's just me being paranoid, but it would work... at least until you learn more about their true nature. You never know whether your roommates are dependable individuals or if they are the slickest of thieves.
New roommates aren't the only people you need to watch, but everyone around campus as well. I know, I know- No one's paying attention to that expensive laptop you momentarily left in the cafeteria filled with witnesses while you went to get a refill. But how about that notebook or pen you forgot in your Biology class? See, no thief will go for the obvious baits like high-profile gadgets and personalized smartphones. Instead thieves can go for stuff taken for granted which adds up over time. Laptop locks are still safe to have, but what about if you don't have anything to write with in class? One college hack I learned was to always switch the caps of your favorite blue/black pens with red ones since no one ever steals a red pen. Small countermeasures like those, will make sure you aren't robbed of materials in class, and therefore an education. So always stay mindful about keeping up with your possessions.
Hangouts
You finally finished the last two pages of that research paper due in two days. You also have a couple hours of downtime until your next practice of intramural flag football. Since you had morning classes, that's not even a concern so you have an entire afternoon at your leisure. How could you possibly spend all that time?
As for the hangouts themselves, you can find popular college student spots everywhere from the residence's game rooms, to public parks or in malls around the city. Go to a city on the weekend and be amazed at the groups of students out and about while sporting their local college shirts and laptop bags while talking it up. Outside the campus, you can see the popularity at bars, clubs, cafes, YMCA's, malls, parks, or downtown sitting outside restaurants on lovely summer days.
If you are close enough, maybe make a road-trip for the beach and find a spot where you can soak your feet on the shoreline.
On campus, you can usually take advantage of the lobbies, student activities center, common areas of the residence halls, and isolated corners of libraries. Since most campuses are very open spaces surrounded by buildings, campuses have wide open grassy areas where students can possibly relax. I
I have even heard of students camping and taking naps on those lots. Wellness centers, and the cafeteria are perfect as well for grubbing and catching up. Or, just choose and rotate dorm rooms to hangout and entertain yourselves at. Just remember that whatever hangout you choose, you will be able to create many memories with friends new and old.
Am I Doing This Right?
Are you feeling stressed out about college because you can't learn something as fast as the rest of the class? Do you feel that you'll be judged or talked about for not knowing something that the rest of the class felt is common knowledge by this level of learning.? Don't be afraid to ask your teachers or classmates questions about subjects you don't understand. Most schools have tutoring services that are covered in your tuition. Take advantage of those services when you really feel dumbfounded about that difficult lesson. Remember that there are no stupid questions when it comes down to your education. The only stupid thing is to not utilize all your resources at your disposal.
The two biggest resources that you should abuse are your professors and the Internet. As my math teacher recently told us, "You are surrounded by some of the most knowledgeable people in the world who are standing right in front of you. They know almost everything there is to know about the subject they are teaching." He was definitely right in saying this since most college professors will have Master's Degrees or Ph.D.'s while hailing from some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Their job is prepare you and they would love to have students ask them questions. Just be prepared to reach them as early as possible when you don't understand. And if you ask your professor and he doesn't know, He can either get back with you after finding out, or referring you to a resource that can provide clarity. My math professor also recommended some useful online resources to us. Those websites were KhanAcademy and Paul's online math notes. They had helpful tutorial videos, practice problems, and tips to prepare me for class and my Math Placement Test. I recommend them as well to anyone- especially KhanAcademy for covering every subject and grade level.
I didn't run into that wall of comprehension during my summer classes, but I know that I may during my harder classes like other students who may do so as well. One solution I can think of would be to create study groups outside of class so we can help learn together. It is also a way to bond with fellow classmates while getting comprehension as well. It's a common belief that you learn better from peers rather than adults. Whichever way you choose, just remember to get the help you need through "any means necessary."
The two biggest resources that you should abuse are your professors and the Internet. As my math teacher recently told us, "You are surrounded by some of the most knowledgeable people in the world who are standing right in front of you. They know almost everything there is to know about the subject they are teaching." He was definitely right in saying this since most college professors will have Master's Degrees or Ph.D.'s while hailing from some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Their job is prepare you and they would love to have students ask them questions. Just be prepared to reach them as early as possible when you don't understand. And if you ask your professor and he doesn't know, He can either get back with you after finding out, or referring you to a resource that can provide clarity. My math professor also recommended some useful online resources to us. Those websites were KhanAcademy and Paul's online math notes. They had helpful tutorial videos, practice problems, and tips to prepare me for class and my Math Placement Test. I recommend them as well to anyone- especially KhanAcademy for covering every subject and grade level.
I didn't run into that wall of comprehension during my summer classes, but I know that I may during my harder classes like other students who may do so as well. One solution I can think of would be to create study groups outside of class so we can help learn together. It is also a way to bond with fellow classmates while getting comprehension as well. It's a common belief that you learn better from peers rather than adults. Whichever way you choose, just remember to get the help you need through "any means necessary."
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Remember Who You Are
Now that you are finally away from your parents and moral guardians, how will you uphold their teachings? Will you grip those morals and values you've been taught all your life even though you don't have eyes watching you anymore? Or, will you now tear them up and throw them away because secretly you've been wanting to abandon them the entire time? This is really a serious question because college is the moral test for every humane thing you had ever learned up until this point. Every time I left the house for an event, no matter how long, I always heard a couple sayings from my parents in a firm tone: "Alright, remember what you've been taught... Act like you got some sense... Don't do anything you may regret later..." I bet a lot of other people can agree with constantly hearing these cautions.
College is naturally a challenge to your upbringing and identity. Why? As I read from a SparkNotes article, a couple lines from paragraph 2 caught my attention:
Being critical of what you see and hear means pondering ideas in new ways and allowing that experience to enrich the way you already think. As your knowledge and experience of the outer world expands, your inner world expands too.
To paraphrase, your identity can be challenged and possibly enriched by coming in contact with people from different backgrounds, social behaviors, and by the activities going on around you. You can embrace another culture and assimilate it into your own or reject it but still acknowledge it. You can say no to fitting in with the rest of society (or friends) by avoiding its music, create your own fashion style, or by avoiding its slang. Ultimately, you can choose to say no or give in to the peer pressures you'll be faced with everyday of your college career. If you don't feel morally obligated to say no to those negative social pressures, you are free to do them and try to rediscover your identity.
So always be mindful of the things you do in college that may effect your self-perception and personal identity. Be even more mindful of the social perception of you in college. When you go to college, you are a representative of your parents, moral guardians, community, and your school. When others view you, they also view everything you represent since you reflect those morals and values.
College is naturally a challenge to your upbringing and identity. Why? As I read from a SparkNotes article, a couple lines from paragraph 2 caught my attention:
Being critical of what you see and hear means pondering ideas in new ways and allowing that experience to enrich the way you already think. As your knowledge and experience of the outer world expands, your inner world expands too.
To paraphrase, your identity can be challenged and possibly enriched by coming in contact with people from different backgrounds, social behaviors, and by the activities going on around you. You can embrace another culture and assimilate it into your own or reject it but still acknowledge it. You can say no to fitting in with the rest of society (or friends) by avoiding its music, create your own fashion style, or by avoiding its slang. Ultimately, you can choose to say no or give in to the peer pressures you'll be faced with everyday of your college career. If you don't feel morally obligated to say no to those negative social pressures, you are free to do them and try to rediscover your identity.
So always be mindful of the things you do in college that may effect your self-perception and personal identity. Be even more mindful of the social perception of you in college. When you go to college, you are a representative of your parents, moral guardians, community, and your school. When others view you, they also view everything you represent since you reflect those morals and values.
Money Management
I don't have to say anymore after this next statement. Keeping money on you as a college student is HARD. If you have a part time job to balance while going to school, good luck with that, but you need even more luck to not be tempted to blow every bit of cash handed to you.
Let's face it, a college student is attacked daily with advertisements to spend all that extra cash. All that paraphernalia is calling your name from the campus bookstore: shirts, hoodies, bumper stickers, decals, wristbands, and even notebooks- if you can name it, most likely it's in there.
How about the personal items and services you will be paying for on a daily or weekly basis- that includes laundry, toothpaste, deodorant, body wash, other toiletries, gas (if you drive), haircuts, events and entertainment, printing(if it isn't included in tuition), etc. but you get the idea.
Finally, I had to save FOOD for last. They don't call it the "freshmen fifteen" for nothing! Not only can you invest in a well-balanced meal plan to suit your needs, but remember that your college is most likely located in or near the busiest district of its city. What else can you find in these high-traffic areas? That's right, FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS! If you came from a small rural area lacking these traps, like I did, then you might have trouble relocating to an area where you are literally surrounded by them. Trust me, I know first-hand how expensive eating out can eventually get; I grabbed a 6-inch just about every morning before my summer classes this past 4 weeks. Those 3-4 dollars add up very quickly.
To be smart about managing money, you have to be thoughtful about impulsive buying, careful about picking the most expensive brands( stick to the "Great Value" brands not just in Walmart, but in every purchase), be excited about discounts, and open a savings/checking account. Frugality is the way to go as a college student. You live within your means by not buying excessive goods, learning to make/do stuff on your own, and by budgeting. All that expensive stuff can wait until after you graduate, find a stable job, and finish paying your loans. This article I found on FastWeb.com is a comprehensive guide for saving money in college. 30 Money Saving tips for Students
Let's face it, a college student is attacked daily with advertisements to spend all that extra cash. All that paraphernalia is calling your name from the campus bookstore: shirts, hoodies, bumper stickers, decals, wristbands, and even notebooks- if you can name it, most likely it's in there.
How about the personal items and services you will be paying for on a daily or weekly basis- that includes laundry, toothpaste, deodorant, body wash, other toiletries, gas (if you drive), haircuts, events and entertainment, printing(if it isn't included in tuition), etc. but you get the idea.
Finally, I had to save FOOD for last. They don't call it the "freshmen fifteen" for nothing! Not only can you invest in a well-balanced meal plan to suit your needs, but remember that your college is most likely located in or near the busiest district of its city. What else can you find in these high-traffic areas? That's right, FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS! If you came from a small rural area lacking these traps, like I did, then you might have trouble relocating to an area where you are literally surrounded by them. Trust me, I know first-hand how expensive eating out can eventually get; I grabbed a 6-inch just about every morning before my summer classes this past 4 weeks. Those 3-4 dollars add up very quickly.
To be smart about managing money, you have to be thoughtful about impulsive buying, careful about picking the most expensive brands( stick to the "Great Value" brands not just in Walmart, but in every purchase), be excited about discounts, and open a savings/checking account. Frugality is the way to go as a college student. You live within your means by not buying excessive goods, learning to make/do stuff on your own, and by budgeting. All that expensive stuff can wait until after you graduate, find a stable job, and finish paying your loans. This article I found on FastWeb.com is a comprehensive guide for saving money in college. 30 Money Saving tips for Students
Summer Reading
Before my Freshman Convocation on August 20th, we have been assigned to read a book called The Other Wes Moore. I plan to start reading as soon as I finish my summer classes. From the background knowledge that I heard, the book's author grew up with a rough upbringing. Fortunately, Wes Moore was able to make a turn around by becoming a Rhodes scholar, and a decorated U.S. Army Veteran. But one day, Wes Moore discovered another coincidental article in the same newspaper that ran the details of his Rhodes Scholarship. The article was about a man named Wes Moore, except it wasn't him who was the subject. It was about a man who had killed an officer over a failed robbery and was sentenced to life in prison without parole. This is the interesting part of the story- Wes Moore was so engrossed by this discovery that he wanted to learn more about this other Wes Moore. To further add to this coincidence, he found out that both of them grew up with similar childhoods, were fatherless, and were faced with similar decisions throughout their lives. Their circumstances were the same, but their decisions ultimately led to drastically different outcomes.
The Other Wes Moore is the culmination of Wes Moore's investigation into the comparison of both of their lives. The book examines the themes of destiny, decisions, and overcoming adversity. After I examined the surface of the book's message, I believe this novel will be a very interesting read and I'm excited about it. It can make people re-evaluate their perceptions of someone's fate based on their circumstances. It also brings up the question of whether someone is really the product of their environment or a product of their actions.
I am also excited to dive into this book, because we actually get to hear a speech and meet Wes Moore at our Freshman Convocation. I never thought I'd get to meet a bestselling author in person but I guess that is just one of those lifetime opportunities that you get through college.
You can read into the author's background here at
thttp://theotherwesmoore.com/about-the-author/
The Other Wes Moore is the culmination of Wes Moore's investigation into the comparison of both of their lives. The book examines the themes of destiny, decisions, and overcoming adversity. After I examined the surface of the book's message, I believe this novel will be a very interesting read and I'm excited about it. It can make people re-evaluate their perceptions of someone's fate based on their circumstances. It also brings up the question of whether someone is really the product of their environment or a product of their actions.
I am also excited to dive into this book, because we actually get to hear a speech and meet Wes Moore at our Freshman Convocation. I never thought I'd get to meet a bestselling author in person but I guess that is just one of those lifetime opportunities that you get through college.
You can read into the author's background here at
thttp://theotherwesmoore.com/about-the-author/
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
College Hacks to Make Life Easier
Recently, I've been thinking about what all should I bring when I move into my dorm room. I'll be staying there the entire year, so that seems like I'd bring a lot of stuff. But bringing a lot means taking up a lot of space, something you just don't have when sharing a room with another person. I'm the only child left in the house so I have to make the transition from living in my own room to living with someone else. I can't bring my entire house with me so I have to either bring as less as possible, or minimize as much space that my stuff takes up in the room. I've been looking up ways to do that and plenty of other interesting things called life hacks. I found some hacks for college students that will make life a little easier. Here are a few that I found at http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/important-life-hacks-every-college-student-should-know .
Lofting your bed-Find out if your school offers lofting services. Depending on the school and residence building, you can get your bed lofted for a fee or for free. If you aren't scared of heights and falling off, then bed lofting can potentially save A LOT of space. The idea is that having your bed off the ground, you can fit containers, trunks, and anything else you can think of. The higher you loft, the more vertical space you create for those containers.
Organizing Clothes- If you aren't already OCD about keeping up with your clothes then these 2 tips will greatly help in college. Do you constantly recycle soda cans while on the go to class? Wait! Before you drop those cans in the bin, keep the soda tabs for your clothes hangers. This can maximize space in cramped closets by hanging multiple garments. How about becoming tired of digging through wadded up wardrobes in your drawers? File your tees to fit more clothes in your closet or dresser.
Amplify Your Speakers- Did you miss your alarm (and class) because you were pulling an all-nighter or went to that raging party? Drop your phone in a glass cup to amplify the sound to avoid those late arrivals. You can also use this method to amplify your phone's speakers while listening to music.
Make Presentations Easier on the Eyes- Are you struggling to read your Power Points on those bright and colorful backgrounds? Use a black outline on white text to make words pop on any background.
An Easy Breakfast- Are you pressed for time before class and can't cook a full breakfast? Make scrambled eggs in a mug using your microwave, cooking spray, milk, and whatever seasonings like salt and pepper.
All of these tricks can make college lie more organized. You can always search for more college and life hacks online at http://www.hackcollege.com/ or other unmentioned hacks from the link above.
Lofting your bed-Find out if your school offers lofting services. Depending on the school and residence building, you can get your bed lofted for a fee or for free. If you aren't scared of heights and falling off, then bed lofting can potentially save A LOT of space. The idea is that having your bed off the ground, you can fit containers, trunks, and anything else you can think of. The higher you loft, the more vertical space you create for those containers.
Organizing Clothes- If you aren't already OCD about keeping up with your clothes then these 2 tips will greatly help in college. Do you constantly recycle soda cans while on the go to class? Wait! Before you drop those cans in the bin, keep the soda tabs for your clothes hangers. This can maximize space in cramped closets by hanging multiple garments. How about becoming tired of digging through wadded up wardrobes in your drawers? File your tees to fit more clothes in your closet or dresser.
Amplify Your Speakers- Did you miss your alarm (and class) because you were pulling an all-nighter or went to that raging party? Drop your phone in a glass cup to amplify the sound to avoid those late arrivals. You can also use this method to amplify your phone's speakers while listening to music.
Make Presentations Easier on the Eyes- Are you struggling to read your Power Points on those bright and colorful backgrounds? Use a black outline on white text to make words pop on any background.
An Easy Breakfast- Are you pressed for time before class and can't cook a full breakfast? Make scrambled eggs in a mug using your microwave, cooking spray, milk, and whatever seasonings like salt and pepper.
All of these tricks can make college lie more organized. You can always search for more college and life hacks online at http://www.hackcollege.com/ or other unmentioned hacks from the link above.
Keep Tabs On Everything
This is a follow up to my Orientation post from earlier today. I wanted to further explain a crucial aspect of going to college. I thought about the sessions that I attended I've talked about time management and responsibility before, but now I want to elaborate. Yeah, we know that once college starts, all the responsibilities now rest with us, right? But what are some of those responsibilities? Not accounting summer classes, first of all, YOU and ONLY YOU can pick your classes. You may have people, like academic advisors or friends, who may recommend a schedule, but only you decide how to go about shaping your future. This is important because if you constantly choose unrelated classes to your major, the longer you'll be expected to stay in school. The more classes you take in college, means the more money you have to pay out. Education is a tool we take for granted, but remember it IS a committed investment. You don't want to be stuck taking irrelevant classes that you still have to pay for without benefitting from them.
Along with irrelevant classes, be aware of deadlines. Procrastination is the WORST enemy of a college student, especially since it is so easy to do because of the free time. Take initiative to start, and finish, assignments early enough so that you'll have plenty of time to make changes if necessary. Deadlines will not wait for you, nor will they be merciful. If you choose to ignore them, they WILL exact revenge on your GPA for being neglected.
Finally, keep up with your friends and family. You will have so much time, that you'll try to a lot it for doing things of personal interest like clubs, events, watching that favorite show, or sleeping. Try to remember you have a social life out side of the classroom as well along with people you have relationships with. Don't act "brand new" when you leave for college by acting like you forgot about your past group of friends and family back up. Take time out of your "super-busy" schedule to check up on parents, brothers, sisters, friends, teachers, or whoever else after having so much time in between home visits. You want to add new contacts to your network when you come to college but you do not want your old contacts becoming stale and forgotten.
Along with irrelevant classes, be aware of deadlines. Procrastination is the WORST enemy of a college student, especially since it is so easy to do because of the free time. Take initiative to start, and finish, assignments early enough so that you'll have plenty of time to make changes if necessary. Deadlines will not wait for you, nor will they be merciful. If you choose to ignore them, they WILL exact revenge on your GPA for being neglected.
Finally, keep up with your friends and family. You will have so much time, that you'll try to a lot it for doing things of personal interest like clubs, events, watching that favorite show, or sleeping. Try to remember you have a social life out side of the classroom as well along with people you have relationships with. Don't act "brand new" when you leave for college by acting like you forgot about your past group of friends and family back up. Take time out of your "super-busy" schedule to check up on parents, brothers, sisters, friends, teachers, or whoever else after having so much time in between home visits. You want to add new contacts to your network when you come to college but you do not want your old contacts becoming stale and forgotten.
Monday, July 14, 2014
My Orientation
I wanted to blog about my orientation the same day of but couldn't and eventually forgot until today. Let me take some time to describe it. My orientation was jam-packed with informational sessions and many fun activities. First of all, our orientation's theme was a spoof of the Hunger Games dubbed "the Pacer Games." Our Pacesetters, our upperclassmen leaders, set the tone throughout those two days by carrying a lot of enthusiasm. They also had us playing games like limbo, "musical beach-balls", "Have you ever...?" and Boom Chika...all of which were interesting. These were great for breaking the ice between all of us in order to introduce ourselves. Speaking of, I got to meet some interesting people as well on those days. I even found out some came from just the next town over from where I live. I'll get to see them soon enough on August 21st when school starts.
For our orientation, we were assigned to color groups according to our majors. So for me, I was in the Navy blue group(favorite color by the way) along with other students who majored in Math/Computer Science/Engineering. Fortunately, I met one of my future suitemates who shared the same major. Each group was assigned to a Pacesetter who explained everything we needed to know and needed before coming to USCA. Our groups usually reconvened and interacted with each other during most sessions so I did get to catch a glimpse of friends throughout the day. Both days were virtually the same except on Thursday, we actually got to register for classes. Luckily, I'll be entering USCA with 6 credit hours by virtue of these summer classes at Denmark Tech. I'm lucky to have taken them but I'm still looking forward to starting school in August. I didn't want to leave campus! In the meantime, I'll be finishing up my last week at Denmark Tech and enjoying the rest of what a little vacation I will have. It's not that long since I have to read "The Other Wes Moore", attend Freshman Convocation, and get all my belongings prepped for moving into my dorm. Regardless of the lack of a vacation, I still enjoyed the orientation if it is an indicator of what to expect this school year!
For our orientation, we were assigned to color groups according to our majors. So for me, I was in the Navy blue group(favorite color by the way) along with other students who majored in Math/Computer Science/Engineering. Fortunately, I met one of my future suitemates who shared the same major. Each group was assigned to a Pacesetter who explained everything we needed to know and needed before coming to USCA. Our groups usually reconvened and interacted with each other during most sessions so I did get to catch a glimpse of friends throughout the day. Both days were virtually the same except on Thursday, we actually got to register for classes. Luckily, I'll be entering USCA with 6 credit hours by virtue of these summer classes at Denmark Tech. I'm lucky to have taken them but I'm still looking forward to starting school in August. I didn't want to leave campus! In the meantime, I'll be finishing up my last week at Denmark Tech and enjoying the rest of what a little vacation I will have. It's not that long since I have to read "The Other Wes Moore", attend Freshman Convocation, and get all my belongings prepped for moving into my dorm. Regardless of the lack of a vacation, I still enjoyed the orientation if it is an indicator of what to expect this school year!
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
What's In Store?
Today seemed more laidback than usual for a day in summer school. It probably felt so relaxed because I didn't really have much of a class in Math or English. Today my math teacher told us about some interesting personal anecdotes of his. While most of his stories were completely unrelated, sure, they had a guilty pleasure of taking our minds off of class(sometimes you need days like that for relief), they were entertaining but did share some life lessons at the end of it all. It was refreshing to not dwell much on some numbers but most importantly, I still learned something insightful that a college student may eventually apply to in his/her life. I appreciate slow days like today now because once I officially hit classes in the Fall, it's ALL GREEN LIGHTS from there.
English class felt slightly more eventful except for different reasons than Math Class. It's ironic that in in Math Class we did no written work at all today and more discussion, English had way less written work than usual but our work was mostly discussion. Our first assignment was to complete the usual handout about parts of speech and then go over it out loud. But afterwards, we read out of our textbooks on how to revise/proofread an essay. The last part of class was then spent reading, and critiquing\the essays of our fellow classmates regarding our favorite celebrity/entertainer. It was nice to receive constructive criticism from a classmate on how to strengthen our essays. Since we're actually ahead of the other class, we were release from class- about 35 minutes earlier! I had NO complaints.
So that was my day today. quick but not so short. I still didn't leave campus until 2 something since I was hanging with friends in the library. That's how I expect most of my days to pan out- except days like that are rare, so I have to enjoy them when I can.
Tomorrow I'll be heading to orientation and won't be coming back until Thursday. I get to meet my potential suitemates, my teachers, set up my classes, an take a look at how I'll be living in the Fall by staying overnight in a dorm room. All that's left is to pack up, take the last part of my placement test, and wait for what's in store. I'm ready and waiting and I'll know it'll be worth it.
English class felt slightly more eventful except for different reasons than Math Class. It's ironic that in in Math Class we did no written work at all today and more discussion, English had way less written work than usual but our work was mostly discussion. Our first assignment was to complete the usual handout about parts of speech and then go over it out loud. But afterwards, we read out of our textbooks on how to revise/proofread an essay. The last part of class was then spent reading, and critiquing\the essays of our fellow classmates regarding our favorite celebrity/entertainer. It was nice to receive constructive criticism from a classmate on how to strengthen our essays. Since we're actually ahead of the other class, we were release from class- about 35 minutes earlier! I had NO complaints.
So that was my day today. quick but not so short. I still didn't leave campus until 2 something since I was hanging with friends in the library. That's how I expect most of my days to pan out- except days like that are rare, so I have to enjoy them when I can.
Tomorrow I'll be heading to orientation and won't be coming back until Thursday. I get to meet my potential suitemates, my teachers, set up my classes, an take a look at how I'll be living in the Fall by staying overnight in a dorm room. All that's left is to pack up, take the last part of my placement test, and wait for what's in store. I'm ready and waiting and I'll know it'll be worth it.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Fill Your Day With Purpose
It seemed like just yesterday I started my journey of taking summer classes. Three weeks ago, I purposefully woke up at 6:20A.M., , jumped out of bed, and started on my way to class...except...in June. "You just graduated school- 2 weeks ago! Why would you step right back into a classroom?" Realistically, I could've asked myself that question... but honestly, the experience of summer school isn't as bad as popular belief. It met my expectations of what I based summer school on. The base was on high school except without the spoon-feeding. The challenge of more self-reliance was something I always felt high school lacked. I especially appreciate that learning style myself since I usually study to myself. Well, that went out the door when I started studying with friends new and old.
I met some interesting people that I felt I could get to know better through studying together and just by conversing. I also felt like my entire day was just too repetitive even though it also felt too short. Going from 7 hours, 5 days, 180 days in high school to 4 hours, 5days, four weeks in summer school leaves you wanting more. Honestly, I wish it was longer. Maybe that's just because I've already become acquainted with the system:
Think about it. Would you want to leave something as soon as you started becoming adjusted to it? That's how I feel right about now with this summer schedule. However, at the same time, I don't want to become mechanical in how I go about my schedule. I don't want to through the motions during the day because if I do everything starts to become stale and lose the expectancy factor. Carry out each day with purpose.
I met some interesting people that I felt I could get to know better through studying together and just by conversing. I also felt like my entire day was just too repetitive even though it also felt too short. Going from 7 hours, 5 days, 180 days in high school to 4 hours, 5days, four weeks in summer school leaves you wanting more. Honestly, I wish it was longer. Maybe that's just because I've already become acquainted with the system:
- Wake up, shower, get dressed
- Leave home around 40 minutes before class
- Buy a quick breakfast from SUBWAY ( Expensively EATING FRESH everyday!)
- Math Class
- Spend my break in the library/lounge finishing homework/blogging
- English Class
- Lunch and then hang around campus for a while
- Go home and nap, game, or homework
- Rinse & Repeat
Think about it. Would you want to leave something as soon as you started becoming adjusted to it? That's how I feel right about now with this summer schedule. However, at the same time, I don't want to become mechanical in how I go about my schedule. I don't want to through the motions during the day because if I do everything starts to become stale and lose the expectancy factor. Carry out each day with purpose.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Networking
I am quickly learning that I am definitely going to be meeting a lot more people during this journey in college. That's just an inevitable result of wanting to venture out into the world. Humans are sociable beings and no matter how much you may want to stay in your bubble, sooner or later, It WILL burst when you enter a situation where you are forced to interact with others. I don't necessarily keep myself in a bubble, but it definitely wouldn't hurt to develop stronger communication skill, especially since I want to become a software engineer. It's imperative that I learn how to network more - professionally and socially. I'll never know who I might run into again; that's the reason why it is so important to get to know the people currently around me. Networking allows me to keep in touch with those people so despite the possibility of never seeing them again, I'll always be able to contact them in the future. That lesson, beside time-management, is the most important life lesson I've learned so far during these first two weeks of college.
Converse, converse, and CONVERSE some more with your fellow peers! You never know what you have in common with them unless you approach them and crack your lips. I know- sometimes it may seem hard to break the ice, but act natural and make yourself seem approachable, friendly and carry yourself with a sense of pride. People are naturally drawn by others who are sure about themselves. Hesitation and the worry of being rejected are the only things stopping an attempt to possibly make a new lifelong friend- just go for it. What's the worst that could happen? The person doesn't have much in common with you? Even if they don't, it doesn't mean you can't eventually become friends or at best, still respect them. Don't worry about the worse, but be optimistic about the potential in networking. As long you aren't jeopardizing your identity by being superficial , you will eventually build a strong network of people who like you for who you are- not for trying to become like them. BUILD RELATIONSHIPS NOW while you still have those people.
Less Now, More Later
MOMMA, can you make me some breakfast and would you mind ironing my shirt while I take my shower?! Hey Dad, can I have a couple bucks for gas? Can I go to that party even if you must give me a curfew? Thank you, thank you, thank you. I hope you were thankful for your parents doing those things when you asked it of them. I mean, that's what they have to do, right? Well, keeping those expectations won't help you at all in college.
You are now on your own and it is up to you to contemplate on those decisions. Will your pre-class "breakfast" be a bag of chips or some cereal? How about transportation: driving, using Pat and Charlie, or riding a bike to class? Are you going to study tonight or go to that big frat party, and if you do, will you be so incoherent that you forgot your key so your roommate had to let you in? Those common provisions such as breakfast and approval to do something will not be as available anymore. Mom and Dad can't choose those decisions for us so we must take on that RESPONSIBILITY.
I may be only taking summer classes now and not fully enrolled yet, but I do feel those responsibilities coming upon me. I have to wake up and prepare myself and materials for classes. I buy my own food before class everyday and make sure I have gas so I won't have to worry about stopping at the pump early in the morning. I choose how I spend my time whether it is studying, or doing whatever else. I still find it surprising how much free time I have since I thought college would be more...busy. I can understand now why it is so easy to get distracted with it all! Regardless, it is too late now. I've long crossed the boundary that separated being a kid with no major concerns from the life in the real world.
What I am trying to say is to do not be in a hurry to grow up. I'm looking forward to it, but you do not have to take on that type of responsibility prematurely. Enjoy only having to worry about school, chores, and the minor tasks given by your parents. Ironically I sound like I'm already regretting college(I don't). Simply, I'm just saying to enjoy having less responsibilities now because they will pile up in the future.
Never Sell Yourself Short
What if I said something wrong during that conversation? What if I flunked that test? What if they don't call me for the job interview? RELAX. You can never have a positive outcome if you're always looking at the worst case scenario. That applies to every situation and not just school. Be confident in the decisions you make. The results of your decisions are often not as bad as your mind makes them out to be.
The human mind is such an interesting thing- but also terrifying. If you let your mind linger too long about the decisions you make, whether they seem worthwhile or trivial, it will eventually escalate into fear and pessimism. I was researching this topic and found an article about what Dr. Phil had to say about it. He noted that to conquer fear, you must "start by not blowing the stakes of your decisions out of proportion." "Self-worth is not a matter of wins versus losses but is an inherent, God-given quality." So next time you start second-guessing the decisions you make in life, remember your first instinct is usually correct. Be assured that confidence in yourself is one of the most versatile tools you'll ever have as you make decisions throughout life. You will always succeed at failing in life if you fail at preparing your mind for success.
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