Wow guys. I have been here for almost a month! This is crazy!! I kicked Bio test butt, and it's a beautiful day here in G-Burg! Anyway, time for another weekly roundup!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) ALL OF TODAY
2) I have an established lab partner now who is really cool and nice!
3) Inside jokes in the Caf with my friend Odessa
4) I passed my Spanish Oral exam
5) Volunteering at the Boy's and Girl's Club
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I lost my glasses...
2) I stayed up way too late every night this week
3) I fail at social interactions between males and females...
4) I couldn't give blood because I might be sick
5) I kinda half-assed my FP paper editing
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
So, I was heading to work on Wednesday, and I was bragging about how I was doing really good at work and how my employer rehires students who do really good work. At work, I was doing Daily Mail. Pretty much, the envelope will contain a letter specific to the student's academic interest, a viewbook (pamphlet of Knox College), and a 60 Second Survey (cards to update or fill in missing information). Since it's almost October, the Daily Mail now includes a card about applying Early Action. I was so concentrated on remembering the Early Action cards that when I finished sealing ALL the envelopes with GLUE, I noticed the entire stack of 60 Second Cards that didn't make it into the envelope. I had to break open every letter with a pen, put the card in, reseal it, and pray to every god I know that it wouldn't break in the mail. It also slowed me down considerably, so I couldn't get to other tasks. FAIL. (Also, I think Daily Mail is cursed because I messed up--only a little--today as well).
Words of Wisdom:
Everyone should be humbled from time to time. It reminds us to be thankful for what we have, it reminds us that we don't know it all, and it reminds us that mistakes are okay. It's been a very humbling week. I was humbled by the kids at the Boy's and Girl's Club, because they were full of unrestrained joy, but for some of them, the only dinner they will get is the small afternoon meal served by the Club. I was also humbled at work. I learned to take my time and to be careful, because I am representing the future of Knox College. I was humbled by Spanish, when my first test came back good, but not amazing--I know now I must study harder and not slide by. Learn from being humbled, because it makes you a better, more knowing, and more thoughtful person.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Umbrella. It rained really badly here on Monday, and I had to go different things in different buildings all evening.
2) Knox ID card. It got me Aristophanes from the library, snacks from the convenience store, meals in the Caf, and the occasional meal/tea in the Gizmo.
3) My Mom. I know that sounds weird, but I studied for Biology by explaining things to her for a total of 3-4 hours throughout the course of the week. It was incredibly helpful.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Animals "make" different noises in different languages. In Spanish, the rooster says quiri, quiri, quiri and the female chicken says cara, cara, cara.
Social: Watching magic tricks done by your suitemates instead of doing homework can be kinda amazing :]
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Black Bean Burgers. I'm not a vegetarian at all, but these are really, really good. They definitely have a southwestern flavor to them, and they are just a bit spicy. MMMMMMMMM.
Plans for the Weekend: Spanish Composition. Maybe watching the Illinois game because ILLINOIS IS 4-0 Y'ALL :]. Besides that, my weekend is super UN-busy, which is super nice.
Three weeks, el completo. WIN.
Much Love,
Celinda
Friday, September 30, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Pledging APO
Well HEY all of you!
I am no longer just an ordinary, run of the mill blogger. No, now I am a blogger with a PLEDGE PIN.
As of right now, I am a pledge for the co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega :]
Everyone knows of frats and sororities. If you have been keeping up with the blog, you now know about the good side of frats and sororities. But, even seeing the good side, some of you might not want to join them and THAT'S OKAY. Remember, as a former PCC, I still uphold the belief of supporting all your UNIQUE college/gap year/other processes :]
I want to tell you about those alternative Greek organizations. There are themed sororities/frats, such as music, languages, etc. There are also service frats, and that is what I joined yesterday evening. Pretty much, Alpha Phi Omega (or APO for short) is a co-ed service fraternity formed in 1925. Today, there are around 700 charters all across the US. At Knox, if you pledge to APO, you are promising to give at least ten hours of service and around two (?) hours of membership. Membership hours mean social activities such as study hours, movie nights, and supporting each other at events (like football games and dance performances).
I first came across APO at the carnival of clubs. I had gone in thinking I was going to give my email to two clubs maximum. I kinda gave it to like six...but that's not the point of the story, so we'll ignore my lack of self control. Anyway, one of the clubs was APO. I went up to their booth and they were very friendly. "We focus on service...you can pledge as a first year, first term student...great way to meet older students..." was their spiel. I had read about APO faintly while stalking Knox's website when I was still an applicant. I figured that I would give them my email, and decide later if I wanted to join.
Later that night, I was talking on the phone with my mother, going through my day. Near the end, I mentioned I might possibly join APO. At this my mother got SUPER excited. Turns out, my mother was in APO at the University of Illinois when she was a student. She told me how much fun it had been, and how some of the best friends she had made in college were APO members. About a week later, APO emailed a list of recruitment activities. I decided then and there "Hey...I might go ahead and actually do this" so I went to a Greek Life recruitment activity.
At my recruitment activity, we decorated cupcakes for the maintenance staff. At Knox, the maintenance staff does so much. Because I live in a suite, the staff cleans my main area and bathrooms weekly. We don't pay extra for that service. So, I was super excited to be involved with a project that was a thank you. I also loved how before even pledging, I was doing volunteer work. The people were also a plus. All these older students were so interested in my life, in why I wanted to join. What makes APO interesting is you have all different kinds of people come together for the goals of leadership, service, and brotherhood. You have football players, theater kids, bio nerds, all of them breaking stereotypes and hanging out. And I really mean hang out. They don't just come together unwillingly and half-ass a project. They work together, play Taboo together, study together, and serve the community together. When I realized that, I was sold. Sunday evening, I was pledging
Life can take you in funny directions. A year ago, I was searching adamantly for a college where the Greek life was minimal at best. In fact, one of the reasons I turned away from Vanderbilt was because 50% of the girls were in a sorority. I had done all that work to avoid Greek life, and here I am, pledging to a co-ed service frat. I mean, APO members can pledge to other frats and sororities and I don't plan on doing that, and in a lot of ways APO is not a typical frat/sorority. Yet I still hadn't planned on going NEAR a Greek organization. But, yesterday I dressed up, went to Old Main, and went through the pledging ceremony. I can't tell you exactly what went down, but I can promise you I wasn't hazed, I wasn't left in the middle of a cornfield, I wasn't told to drink as much as I can as fast as I can, or anything like that. No, I swore an oath, and now I am a pledge!
As a pledge, I have to pay dues (like all frats and sororities), but my dues are only $35. Furthermore, this busy term just got busier, because now I have to get service and membership hours in. But, I am super excited. Today I'm giving blood. Next weekend, I am going on a SCAVENGER HUNT through Galesburg (Fun fact about me: I.LOVE.SCAVENGER.HUNTS.) I might go to a study hour this week because I have a bio midterm this week (another thing to blog about lol). So the term will be busy, but fulfilling.
And thus, we wrap up Greek Week. What I really want you to take away from this is not all sororities/fraternities are bad, and not all of them are good. Some don't even fit the stereotypical version of what a frat/sorority is. You don't ever have to join one, or even go visit one. But if you do, use your common sense when joining. If a frat or sorority is hazing you and you don't feel comfortable, why would you want to join that community? PLEASE be safe when hazing. People have died during hazing activities because they don't know how to say NO. Use your voice, your common sense, and it can be an amazing experience in your life. Both Lizzy and Seth have shared that joining Greek life was one of the best decisions they have ever made. I also hope I will be able to say that in the future. Wish me luck!
Keep posted!
Celinda :]
I am no longer just an ordinary, run of the mill blogger. No, now I am a blogger with a PLEDGE PIN.
As of right now, I am a pledge for the co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega :]
Everyone knows of frats and sororities. If you have been keeping up with the blog, you now know about the good side of frats and sororities. But, even seeing the good side, some of you might not want to join them and THAT'S OKAY. Remember, as a former PCC, I still uphold the belief of supporting all your UNIQUE college/gap year/other processes :]
I want to tell you about those alternative Greek organizations. There are themed sororities/frats, such as music, languages, etc. There are also service frats, and that is what I joined yesterday evening. Pretty much, Alpha Phi Omega (or APO for short) is a co-ed service fraternity formed in 1925. Today, there are around 700 charters all across the US. At Knox, if you pledge to APO, you are promising to give at least ten hours of service and around two (?) hours of membership. Membership hours mean social activities such as study hours, movie nights, and supporting each other at events (like football games and dance performances).
I first came across APO at the carnival of clubs. I had gone in thinking I was going to give my email to two clubs maximum. I kinda gave it to like six...but that's not the point of the story, so we'll ignore my lack of self control. Anyway, one of the clubs was APO. I went up to their booth and they were very friendly. "We focus on service...you can pledge as a first year, first term student...great way to meet older students..." was their spiel. I had read about APO faintly while stalking Knox's website when I was still an applicant. I figured that I would give them my email, and decide later if I wanted to join.
Later that night, I was talking on the phone with my mother, going through my day. Near the end, I mentioned I might possibly join APO. At this my mother got SUPER excited. Turns out, my mother was in APO at the University of Illinois when she was a student. She told me how much fun it had been, and how some of the best friends she had made in college were APO members. About a week later, APO emailed a list of recruitment activities. I decided then and there "Hey...I might go ahead and actually do this" so I went to a Greek Life recruitment activity.
At my recruitment activity, we decorated cupcakes for the maintenance staff. At Knox, the maintenance staff does so much. Because I live in a suite, the staff cleans my main area and bathrooms weekly. We don't pay extra for that service. So, I was super excited to be involved with a project that was a thank you. I also loved how before even pledging, I was doing volunteer work. The people were also a plus. All these older students were so interested in my life, in why I wanted to join. What makes APO interesting is you have all different kinds of people come together for the goals of leadership, service, and brotherhood. You have football players, theater kids, bio nerds, all of them breaking stereotypes and hanging out. And I really mean hang out. They don't just come together unwillingly and half-ass a project. They work together, play Taboo together, study together, and serve the community together. When I realized that, I was sold. Sunday evening, I was pledging
Life can take you in funny directions. A year ago, I was searching adamantly for a college where the Greek life was minimal at best. In fact, one of the reasons I turned away from Vanderbilt was because 50% of the girls were in a sorority. I had done all that work to avoid Greek life, and here I am, pledging to a co-ed service frat. I mean, APO members can pledge to other frats and sororities and I don't plan on doing that, and in a lot of ways APO is not a typical frat/sorority. Yet I still hadn't planned on going NEAR a Greek organization. But, yesterday I dressed up, went to Old Main, and went through the pledging ceremony. I can't tell you exactly what went down, but I can promise you I wasn't hazed, I wasn't left in the middle of a cornfield, I wasn't told to drink as much as I can as fast as I can, or anything like that. No, I swore an oath, and now I am a pledge!
As a pledge, I have to pay dues (like all frats and sororities), but my dues are only $35. Furthermore, this busy term just got busier, because now I have to get service and membership hours in. But, I am super excited. Today I'm giving blood. Next weekend, I am going on a SCAVENGER HUNT through Galesburg (Fun fact about me: I.LOVE.SCAVENGER.HUNTS.) I might go to a study hour this week because I have a bio midterm this week (another thing to blog about lol). So the term will be busy, but fulfilling.
And thus, we wrap up Greek Week. What I really want you to take away from this is not all sororities/fraternities are bad, and not all of them are good. Some don't even fit the stereotypical version of what a frat/sorority is. You don't ever have to join one, or even go visit one. But if you do, use your common sense when joining. If a frat or sorority is hazing you and you don't feel comfortable, why would you want to join that community? PLEASE be safe when hazing. People have died during hazing activities because they don't know how to say NO. Use your voice, your common sense, and it can be an amazing experience in your life. Both Lizzy and Seth have shared that joining Greek life was one of the best decisions they have ever made. I also hope I will be able to say that in the future. Wish me luck!
 |
| My APO pin. It's perty :] |
Keep posted!
Celinda :]
Friday, September 23, 2011
Weekly Roundup 2
Sooooo....tired....but I will blog, nevertheless....
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I made new friends/acquaintances! In Spanish, FP, Biology, etc.
2) I baked vegan cupcakes with my suite mates
3) I woke up on time EVERYDAY
4) I got to see my admissions counselor
5) I finished my Bio lab work Wednesday with my group successfully :]
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) Not enough sleep on Thursday night...or the rest the week really...
2) Biology is getting really annoying
3) I still haven't gone to the gym
4) Getting up and walking by this cute guy like TEN times and he NEVER noticed.
5) Going to multiple stores trying to find soy yogurt. How my life has changed...
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I walked into the dessert room with the express purpose to say hi to a guy I kind of like, only to chicken out and just leave with my cookie. When my friend asked me why I didn't say hello, I told her I was so painfully shy, I couldn't even strike up a conversation with him. :[
Words of Wisdom:
You will never know everything. In fact, the more you learn, the more you become aware of all the things you don't know.People shouldn't go into any situation feeling like they know everything, but especially not into college. By believing you know everything, you are actually hindering your ability to learn more things. I think Uni needs to teach its students that we are not so much gifted and intelligent as we are just curious. Curious learners scour books, textbooks, ideas, the natural world, anything, so that they can add to their collection of knowledge. In the grand scheme of our vast world, being curious is a much safer term than being brilliant.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Debit Card. You run out of things, or you might want to get something special, or a gift. I used it this week for vegan cupcake ingredients, but I have also used it to replenish my cereal.
2) Email. Imagine trying to coordinate 5 different students from different grades on a college campus to finish bio lab homework. It only happened because of email.
3) Sugary treats. There are some rough days, whether because of unrequited love (see above), homework, fights, tests, you name it. Sugary treats like ice cream, cookies, and chocolate will definitely help.
Most Interesting Discover This Week:
Academic: Antigone, besides being a tragedy, is incredibly philosophical The play covers topics such as justice, honor, tyranny/rule, and death.
Social: Vegan cupcakes can be surprisingly delicious, even with soy milk and dairyless sour cream (blegh....)
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Mashed potatoes. I love mashed potatoes in general, but these are freaking delicious. Also, close second are their M&M cookies :]
Plans for the Weekend:
Sleep is a number one priority. I did NOT get enough this week, and I am exhausted. Also, I am pledging Sunday for Alpha Phi Omega, can't wait to blog about that. Besides that, homework. I have a bio test a week from today, and a draft of a 3-5 page paper due Monday, so I got to get crackin' on that :]
And that is SECOND (!!!) full week at Knox, brought to your favorite (graduated!) blogger,
Celinda Davis
PS: Joey started blogging Juniors! Check it out!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I made new friends/acquaintances! In Spanish, FP, Biology, etc.
2) I baked vegan cupcakes with my suite mates
3) I woke up on time EVERYDAY
4) I got to see my admissions counselor
5) I finished my Bio lab work Wednesday with my group successfully :]
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) Not enough sleep on Thursday night...or the rest the week really...
2) Biology is getting really annoying
3) I still haven't gone to the gym
4) Getting up and walking by this cute guy like TEN times and he NEVER noticed.
5) Going to multiple stores trying to find soy yogurt. How my life has changed...
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I walked into the dessert room with the express purpose to say hi to a guy I kind of like, only to chicken out and just leave with my cookie. When my friend asked me why I didn't say hello, I told her I was so painfully shy, I couldn't even strike up a conversation with him. :[
Words of Wisdom:
You will never know everything. In fact, the more you learn, the more you become aware of all the things you don't know.People shouldn't go into any situation feeling like they know everything, but especially not into college. By believing you know everything, you are actually hindering your ability to learn more things. I think Uni needs to teach its students that we are not so much gifted and intelligent as we are just curious. Curious learners scour books, textbooks, ideas, the natural world, anything, so that they can add to their collection of knowledge. In the grand scheme of our vast world, being curious is a much safer term than being brilliant.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Debit Card. You run out of things, or you might want to get something special, or a gift. I used it this week for vegan cupcake ingredients, but I have also used it to replenish my cereal.
2) Email. Imagine trying to coordinate 5 different students from different grades on a college campus to finish bio lab homework. It only happened because of email.
3) Sugary treats. There are some rough days, whether because of unrequited love (see above), homework, fights, tests, you name it. Sugary treats like ice cream, cookies, and chocolate will definitely help.
Most Interesting Discover This Week:
Academic: Antigone, besides being a tragedy, is incredibly philosophical The play covers topics such as justice, honor, tyranny/rule, and death.
Social: Vegan cupcakes can be surprisingly delicious, even with soy milk and dairyless sour cream (blegh....)
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Mashed potatoes. I love mashed potatoes in general, but these are freaking delicious. Also, close second are their M&M cookies :]
Plans for the Weekend:
Sleep is a number one priority. I did NOT get enough this week, and I am exhausted. Also, I am pledging Sunday for Alpha Phi Omega, can't wait to blog about that. Besides that, homework. I have a bio test a week from today, and a draft of a 3-5 page paper due Monday, so I got to get crackin' on that :]
And that is SECOND (!!!) full week at Knox, brought to your favorite (graduated!) blogger,
Celinda Davis
PS: Joey started blogging Juniors! Check it out!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Going Greek: Breaking the Myth Part Two
Here is Part Two! To refresh, Seth Bull graduated Uni with me in 2011, and he now attends the Missouri School of Technology. Right now he is a pledge of his fraternity, which means he isn't a full member yet, and as such doesn't know all the inner-workings of his frat. Hopefully, I will be able to do a blog later on with him about frat life, POST-pledge. Here is the interview, enjoy!
1) Why did you want to join a fraternity/sorority?
I didn't. At all. Then I came to the university, met the people there, talked about what it entailed, and met the people in the dorms. At Pikes, everyone seemed to embody the point of a fraternity: brotherhood. The choice made itself really.
2) What is pledging like?
A crap load of chores. But the "normal" pledging stuff really doesn't happen. No one forced me to drink, and I still don't. We aren't hazed, but there are rules. We have to maintain a minimum GPA, and there are loads of things we can't do during the week. But it's rewarding, I've gotten to know 35 guys over 5 weeks better than I've known most people at Uni after 5 years. For me, the people and the experience have thus far outweighed the negatives by a load.
3) What would you say are the positives of being a member?
(i) There is ALWAYS someone to hang out with. Don't want to party that night? Hang with the guy down the hall who wants to watch sport center or play games.
(ii) Help is practically thrown at you. There are 35 other guys all taking freshman courses and 110 others who have taken them before. You will succeed if you want to.
(iii) Friends. I'm already better friends with these guys than most of the people I knew at Uni (sorry :P).
(iv) A network to fall on. Where ever I go, whatever company I work for, there will always be someone who was a Pike, knew a Pike, or was related to a Pike, and knows who we are and what kind of guys join Pi Kappa Alpha.
(v) The nicest digs on campus. Seriously, I pay less for a better house with better people than everyone else on campus.
4) What would you say are the negatives of being a member?
At least for me the time commitment is massive. I have to study for in house stuff, along with my regular work. I also have to do a minimum number of volunteer hours per semester and various duties around the house.
Theres also the way people outside the Greek system look at us. Everyone pictures animal house, and I can assure you, if that was the case here, I would have been the last person on earth to sign up. I hate that stereotype. My house isn't like that in the slightest. We're no where near perfect, but we try damn hard to get as close as possible.
5) What kind of person succeeds in a fraternity/sorority?
It's hard to say. There isn't one kind of person that would be good in all fraternities. There are different fraternities that expect different things. I chose Pike because they're smart, but good in athletics, and are genuinely fun guys to be around. If I'm forced to pick a guy in school who'd be good in a fraternity, I'd say it's that natural leader person. The guy who's the top of everything, seemingly without trying. Parties hard, works harder. But there is loads of wiggle room. I'd say almost anyone can contribute to a fraternity.
6) Is there hazing? What is it like?
No. And anyone who even says they'll haze you is immediately kicked out. They take that stuff seriously. Hazing doesn't promote brotherhood, which is the entire point of a fraternity. Again, that might not be the case everywhere, but here in Rolla, at Pi Kappa Alpha, you will not be hazed. You will do chores until you have memorized every nook and cranny of your area, but you will not be hazed.
7) Many Greek "societies" do service work. What is your fraternity/sorority's cause?
I'm pledging for Pi Kappa Alpha, aka Pikes. We do it all. In two weeks we'll be doing stuff for JDRF in STL, and a few after that, we'll do some stuff with Habitat. There are volunteer opportunities all over the place.
8) Is there anything else you would like to add, wisdom you want to give for people planning on joining Greek life?
Don't be scared of it. Not all fraternities are animal house, but you ought to be careful. Even in lil ol' Rolla there are some bad fraternities. You should have your guard up, especially when you're looking at all the different houses. Remember, they're trying to get you to Rush. But if you find the house where you fit, it'll be the greatest choice of your life. These guys I'm surrounded by are some of the coolest, smartest, and most fun people I've been around. Joining Pikes was the best choice I've ever made.
Both Seth and Lizzy are sooo amazing, for taking the time out to answer my questions. At the end of this weekend, I will write a blog about my own experiences with pledging, as well as giving some information about those "alternate" fraternities, (themed, co-ed, etc). I'm also going to do a blog (hopefully tomorrow!) about sleeping in a dorm and sleep at college in general. Trust me, I have a LOT to say.
Much Love,
Celinda
1) Why did you want to join a fraternity/sorority?
I didn't. At all. Then I came to the university, met the people there, talked about what it entailed, and met the people in the dorms. At Pikes, everyone seemed to embody the point of a fraternity: brotherhood. The choice made itself really.
2) What is pledging like?
A crap load of chores. But the "normal" pledging stuff really doesn't happen. No one forced me to drink, and I still don't. We aren't hazed, but there are rules. We have to maintain a minimum GPA, and there are loads of things we can't do during the week. But it's rewarding, I've gotten to know 35 guys over 5 weeks better than I've known most people at Uni after 5 years. For me, the people and the experience have thus far outweighed the negatives by a load.
3) What would you say are the positives of being a member?
(i) There is ALWAYS someone to hang out with. Don't want to party that night? Hang with the guy down the hall who wants to watch sport center or play games.
(ii) Help is practically thrown at you. There are 35 other guys all taking freshman courses and 110 others who have taken them before. You will succeed if you want to.
(iii) Friends. I'm already better friends with these guys than most of the people I knew at Uni (sorry :P).
(iv) A network to fall on. Where ever I go, whatever company I work for, there will always be someone who was a Pike, knew a Pike, or was related to a Pike, and knows who we are and what kind of guys join Pi Kappa Alpha.
(v) The nicest digs on campus. Seriously, I pay less for a better house with better people than everyone else on campus.
4) What would you say are the negatives of being a member?
At least for me the time commitment is massive. I have to study for in house stuff, along with my regular work. I also have to do a minimum number of volunteer hours per semester and various duties around the house.
Theres also the way people outside the Greek system look at us. Everyone pictures animal house, and I can assure you, if that was the case here, I would have been the last person on earth to sign up. I hate that stereotype. My house isn't like that in the slightest. We're no where near perfect, but we try damn hard to get as close as possible.
5) What kind of person succeeds in a fraternity/sorority?
It's hard to say. There isn't one kind of person that would be good in all fraternities. There are different fraternities that expect different things. I chose Pike because they're smart, but good in athletics, and are genuinely fun guys to be around. If I'm forced to pick a guy in school who'd be good in a fraternity, I'd say it's that natural leader person. The guy who's the top of everything, seemingly without trying. Parties hard, works harder. But there is loads of wiggle room. I'd say almost anyone can contribute to a fraternity.
6) Is there hazing? What is it like?
No. And anyone who even says they'll haze you is immediately kicked out. They take that stuff seriously. Hazing doesn't promote brotherhood, which is the entire point of a fraternity. Again, that might not be the case everywhere, but here in Rolla, at Pi Kappa Alpha, you will not be hazed. You will do chores until you have memorized every nook and cranny of your area, but you will not be hazed.
7) Many Greek "societies" do service work. What is your fraternity/sorority's cause?
I'm pledging for Pi Kappa Alpha, aka Pikes. We do it all. In two weeks we'll be doing stuff for JDRF in STL, and a few after that, we'll do some stuff with Habitat. There are volunteer opportunities all over the place.
8) Is there anything else you would like to add, wisdom you want to give for people planning on joining Greek life?
Don't be scared of it. Not all fraternities are animal house, but you ought to be careful. Even in lil ol' Rolla there are some bad fraternities. You should have your guard up, especially when you're looking at all the different houses. Remember, they're trying to get you to Rush. But if you find the house where you fit, it'll be the greatest choice of your life. These guys I'm surrounded by are some of the coolest, smartest, and most fun people I've been around. Joining Pikes was the best choice I've ever made.
Both Seth and Lizzy are sooo amazing, for taking the time out to answer my questions. At the end of this weekend, I will write a blog about my own experiences with pledging, as well as giving some information about those "alternate" fraternities, (themed, co-ed, etc). I'm also going to do a blog (hopefully tomorrow!) about sleeping in a dorm and sleep at college in general. Trust me, I have a LOT to say.
Much Love,
Celinda
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Going Greek: Breaking the Myth Part One
Watch this clip first:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-86etz3cGw
This is the media's portrayal of Greek life. At some colleges, or some houses, this is how it is. However, not every college or house is like that. I interviewed Lizzy Warner, who graduated from Uni in 2009, and attends Knox College. I also interviewed Seth Bull, who graduated from Uni in 2011, and attends the Missouri Institute of Technology. They graciously agreed to answer my questions. I myself am pledging to a co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, and I will write a separate blog about that this weekend. Remember, if you are interested in Greek life, do your research. Many houses are committed to sisterhood/brotherhood, service, and school. As you'll discover, some houses will kick you out if you aren't helping the community, do excessive partying, or fall under a certain GPA. Keep an open mind, and use your common sense. Some houses are dangerous, full of the media's picture of drugs, alcohol, sex, rape, and hazing. Not all of them are like that though!
Because I got such thoughtful and well-written answers to my questions, I am doing a two part blog for Greek Life. First up is Lizzy and Sororities!
1) Why did you want to join a fraternity/sorority?
Well I kind of had the idea in my head of joining a sorority early on because my mom was in a sorority and my dad was in a fraternity and "Going Greek" didn't come with any negative stereotypes for me. In fact, I grew up almost idolizing the Greek system because I was able to see what great friends my mom had and the values those friends shared with each other. It is a lifelong friendship and even with people she didn't know but with whom she had that shared history with, they were immediately closer. Now that I am also a Pi Phi (I am a Pi Phi and Knox legacy from my mom) I can really see that becoming reflected in my own life.
2) What is pledging like?
Pledging is somewhat intimidating. Words are thrown around a lot amongst non-Greeks so to clarify "Recruitment" (we are not allowed to call it Rush any more) is when girls go through and choose which houses they want and which organizations want them in return. Pledging means that you have already accepted your bid and you are part of that organization but you have not yet initiated. If you have not yet initiated then you do not know all the secrets and are not considered a full member yet. Pledging can be intimidating not because it is scary but because you don't really know what to expect since no one can tell you what is going to happen. There are a lot of secret ceremonies involved and you are constantly learning new phrases, songs, and names of people. It is great because all of a sudden you have 50 new people who are genuinely interested in getting to know you and support you but at the same time it is a lot to take in. The pledging process, though, is much more of a relief than formal recruitment. I don't know about at other bigger schools, but that is why informal recruitments tend to have such a great turn out here.. because people are overwhelmed by formal recruitment and going from house to house and meeting so many new people all in just a few short days. That being said, I went through formal recruitment and I loved it!
3.) What would you say are the positives of being a member?
* A whole chapter of girls who, like real sisters (even if you don't hang out all the time and don't do the same things) are genuinely interested in supporting you helping you, and they alway have your back (and vice versa).
*It is a great way to meet a bunch of people you really wouldn't have met otherwise. For example, had it not been for Pi Phi I never would have gone to a volleyball game or a Terp show.
*It links you to people of all generations all throughout the country in a way where you share the same secrets and same bonds and it automatically brings you closer.
* Our alums are kick ass! It is like having a temporary mom at school. They help you with groceries and furnish the house and hang out with you when, like me, you have to be at school alone 3 weeks early!
*Artificially, we have am awesome house with a lot of resources to use. We have our own kitchen, office and office supplies, giant televisions, etc. and while that wouldn't be a reason to join it is definitely an added bonus once you have made the decision.
*You get involved with the campus and community more. There are required philanthropy hours and additionally we all like to support our sisters at the events that they attend/host so you really get involved with what is going on. It forces you to get out of your own bubble
* It keeps your grades up. We have required study hours and required GPA's to meet. We have giant study parties and prizes that we can win if we get A's or don't skip any class for a week.
* You are not only connected with people from your organization but you are also connected with Greek men and women all over the country
* It makes you become a leader. You learn how to run a meeting, make a motion, etc. You are given the tools to communicate with adults and leaders on campus and you are highly encouraged to take on a leadership role within the chapter. The role I have as Vice President of Communications and Panhel Delegate has honestly been one of the most influential roles I have taken on in that it has taught me to mature as a person.
4) What would you say are the negatives of being a member?
* Many people have bad stereotypes of the Greek system and don't understand it as a whole. I remember the first day a freshman told me he went to a kickass party at a sorority house on campus, to impress me. Sorority houses, while a common misconception, are not allowed to host open parties. It is small these like this that make it difficult, knowing it is both students and professors who don't fully respect it.
* You have to be able to have the time commitment. It isn't huge but it is what you make of it. If you choose not to attend the 1 hour chapter meetings every Sunday, yes you will be in trouble with the chapter but, additionally, you really aren't going to end up appreciating it and getting the full experience. You have to be willing to attend your sisters activities too and take time out of your day like you would for any other club or organization
*Dues. They really aren't that bad considering you pay dues once every fall term and then that covers all expenses you may have the rest of the term. For example, we had mixers and social events with other organizations. This weekend we are going bowling and eating pizza and not paying anything out of pocket because we paid our dues at the beginning of term. Nonetheless, it is still money that you can't spend. I pay my dues myself by just holding a campus job, though, and I still have a lot of extra money so it isn't as though it is a huge burden on this campus.
5. What kind of person succeeds in a fraternity/sorority?
I am sure Seth and I will have different answers for this question. It is because Knox is just a different place in general. It is filled with such an assortment of people I feel like more than half of my chapter will tell you that when they first came to Knox there was no possible way that they thought they would ever join a sorority. Really, anyone can fit in here, you just have to be willing to treat your sorority sisters like your actual sisters. You need to be able to make time to support them, attend events together, etc. and they will do the same for you. There are definitely those stereotype of sorority girls-- the kind who wear a lot of make up and party a lot-- but in reality we have very strict grade requirements, if you party a lot you are brought in front of our standards board who have the authority to discipline you (e.g. you could go on social probation), and I am sure we have girls who, to this day, can count the number of times they have ever worn a dress. It's just about what you make of it.
6) Is there hazing? What is it like?
Fraternities say they don't haze. It is often called "brotherhood" activities, or something of the like. But because hazing has been so publicized and received such negative press we actually have very strict hazing policies. You are not allowed to take your members on a scavenger hunt, you can not mandatorily require any class (new members or seniors) to do an activity all together (even if it is doing something like playing flag football), we can't call recruitment "rush"... there are a lot of things that we are not allowed to do. And the punishments are severe, most likely resulting in the removal of your charter (i.e. your house and chapter would be removed from the campus). Therefore, all sororities that I know of take anti-hazing very seriously.
7) Many Greek "societies" do service work. What is your fraternity/sorority's cause?
I am a member of Pi Beta Phi. Our national philanthropy is literacy and we are teamed with First Book to promote literacy. What this means is that literacy is what we focus on and strive to volunteer for. We have a certain number of hours that we are supposed to dedicated towards volunteering for literacy (and for our chapter, by certain number of hours, I mean 2). Aside from that you can complete your philanthropy hours, or just for the fun of it, by doing any other volunteer activities. The best part about it is that you have so many girls who want to volunteer too that if you find something you are passionate about then it is easy to get a lot of people behind you and volunteering with you.
8) Is there anything else you would like to add, wisdom you want to give for people planning on joining Greek life?
Don't go in it with preconceived misconceptions. It is hard to do but in order to find an organization that you want to be a part of you need to make sure you would want to be a part of it, even without the Greek affiliation and the nice house. You just want to better yourself and surround yourself with people who will help you do that and make it fun along the way! I really, really encourage everyone (especially Knox students) to go through recruitment. If it isn't your cup of tea, no one will hold it against you. And I really do mean that! No one holds hostilities against the girl who showed up and realized that this really isn't something that she has time for, etc. I hold a job, work as an intern, I am overloading my courses this term and taking all math classes at that, I am charge of recruitment with Panhel, I have track training, and I am our VPCommunications and despite how busy my schedule is I know that I would never drop Pi Phi for anything and I would love if other people were able to experience the same feeling. I know that every school is different and our campus is so small, but from what I have learned being here, no matter who you are or how busy you are you should at least think about it.
This is the media's portrayal of Greek life. At some colleges, or some houses, this is how it is. However, not every college or house is like that. I interviewed Lizzy Warner, who graduated from Uni in 2009, and attends Knox College. I also interviewed Seth Bull, who graduated from Uni in 2011, and attends the Missouri Institute of Technology. They graciously agreed to answer my questions. I myself am pledging to a co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, and I will write a separate blog about that this weekend. Remember, if you are interested in Greek life, do your research. Many houses are committed to sisterhood/brotherhood, service, and school. As you'll discover, some houses will kick you out if you aren't helping the community, do excessive partying, or fall under a certain GPA. Keep an open mind, and use your common sense. Some houses are dangerous, full of the media's picture of drugs, alcohol, sex, rape, and hazing. Not all of them are like that though!
Because I got such thoughtful and well-written answers to my questions, I am doing a two part blog for Greek Life. First up is Lizzy and Sororities!
1) Why did you want to join a fraternity/sorority?
Well I kind of had the idea in my head of joining a sorority early on because my mom was in a sorority and my dad was in a fraternity and "Going Greek" didn't come with any negative stereotypes for me. In fact, I grew up almost idolizing the Greek system because I was able to see what great friends my mom had and the values those friends shared with each other. It is a lifelong friendship and even with people she didn't know but with whom she had that shared history with, they were immediately closer. Now that I am also a Pi Phi (I am a Pi Phi and Knox legacy from my mom) I can really see that becoming reflected in my own life.
2) What is pledging like?
Pledging is somewhat intimidating. Words are thrown around a lot amongst non-Greeks so to clarify "Recruitment" (we are not allowed to call it Rush any more) is when girls go through and choose which houses they want and which organizations want them in return. Pledging means that you have already accepted your bid and you are part of that organization but you have not yet initiated. If you have not yet initiated then you do not know all the secrets and are not considered a full member yet. Pledging can be intimidating not because it is scary but because you don't really know what to expect since no one can tell you what is going to happen. There are a lot of secret ceremonies involved and you are constantly learning new phrases, songs, and names of people. It is great because all of a sudden you have 50 new people who are genuinely interested in getting to know you and support you but at the same time it is a lot to take in. The pledging process, though, is much more of a relief than formal recruitment. I don't know about at other bigger schools, but that is why informal recruitments tend to have such a great turn out here.. because people are overwhelmed by formal recruitment and going from house to house and meeting so many new people all in just a few short days. That being said, I went through formal recruitment and I loved it!
3.) What would you say are the positives of being a member?
* A whole chapter of girls who, like real sisters (even if you don't hang out all the time and don't do the same things) are genuinely interested in supporting you helping you, and they alway have your back (and vice versa).
*It is a great way to meet a bunch of people you really wouldn't have met otherwise. For example, had it not been for Pi Phi I never would have gone to a volleyball game or a Terp show.
*It links you to people of all generations all throughout the country in a way where you share the same secrets and same bonds and it automatically brings you closer.
* Our alums are kick ass! It is like having a temporary mom at school. They help you with groceries and furnish the house and hang out with you when, like me, you have to be at school alone 3 weeks early!
*Artificially, we have am awesome house with a lot of resources to use. We have our own kitchen, office and office supplies, giant televisions, etc. and while that wouldn't be a reason to join it is definitely an added bonus once you have made the decision.
*You get involved with the campus and community more. There are required philanthropy hours and additionally we all like to support our sisters at the events that they attend/host so you really get involved with what is going on. It forces you to get out of your own bubble
* It keeps your grades up. We have required study hours and required GPA's to meet. We have giant study parties and prizes that we can win if we get A's or don't skip any class for a week.
* You are not only connected with people from your organization but you are also connected with Greek men and women all over the country
* It makes you become a leader. You learn how to run a meeting, make a motion, etc. You are given the tools to communicate with adults and leaders on campus and you are highly encouraged to take on a leadership role within the chapter. The role I have as Vice President of Communications and Panhel Delegate has honestly been one of the most influential roles I have taken on in that it has taught me to mature as a person.
4) What would you say are the negatives of being a member?
* Many people have bad stereotypes of the Greek system and don't understand it as a whole. I remember the first day a freshman told me he went to a kickass party at a sorority house on campus, to impress me. Sorority houses, while a common misconception, are not allowed to host open parties. It is small these like this that make it difficult, knowing it is both students and professors who don't fully respect it.
* You have to be able to have the time commitment. It isn't huge but it is what you make of it. If you choose not to attend the 1 hour chapter meetings every Sunday, yes you will be in trouble with the chapter but, additionally, you really aren't going to end up appreciating it and getting the full experience. You have to be willing to attend your sisters activities too and take time out of your day like you would for any other club or organization
*Dues. They really aren't that bad considering you pay dues once every fall term and then that covers all expenses you may have the rest of the term. For example, we had mixers and social events with other organizations. This weekend we are going bowling and eating pizza and not paying anything out of pocket because we paid our dues at the beginning of term. Nonetheless, it is still money that you can't spend. I pay my dues myself by just holding a campus job, though, and I still have a lot of extra money so it isn't as though it is a huge burden on this campus.
5. What kind of person succeeds in a fraternity/sorority?
I am sure Seth and I will have different answers for this question. It is because Knox is just a different place in general. It is filled with such an assortment of people I feel like more than half of my chapter will tell you that when they first came to Knox there was no possible way that they thought they would ever join a sorority. Really, anyone can fit in here, you just have to be willing to treat your sorority sisters like your actual sisters. You need to be able to make time to support them, attend events together, etc. and they will do the same for you. There are definitely those stereotype of sorority girls-- the kind who wear a lot of make up and party a lot-- but in reality we have very strict grade requirements, if you party a lot you are brought in front of our standards board who have the authority to discipline you (e.g. you could go on social probation), and I am sure we have girls who, to this day, can count the number of times they have ever worn a dress. It's just about what you make of it.
6) Is there hazing? What is it like?
Fraternities say they don't haze. It is often called "brotherhood" activities, or something of the like. But because hazing has been so publicized and received such negative press we actually have very strict hazing policies. You are not allowed to take your members on a scavenger hunt, you can not mandatorily require any class (new members or seniors) to do an activity all together (even if it is doing something like playing flag football), we can't call recruitment "rush"... there are a lot of things that we are not allowed to do. And the punishments are severe, most likely resulting in the removal of your charter (i.e. your house and chapter would be removed from the campus). Therefore, all sororities that I know of take anti-hazing very seriously.
7) Many Greek "societies" do service work. What is your fraternity/sorority's cause?
I am a member of Pi Beta Phi. Our national philanthropy is literacy and we are teamed with First Book to promote literacy. What this means is that literacy is what we focus on and strive to volunteer for. We have a certain number of hours that we are supposed to dedicated towards volunteering for literacy (and for our chapter, by certain number of hours, I mean 2). Aside from that you can complete your philanthropy hours, or just for the fun of it, by doing any other volunteer activities. The best part about it is that you have so many girls who want to volunteer too that if you find something you are passionate about then it is easy to get a lot of people behind you and volunteering with you.
8) Is there anything else you would like to add, wisdom you want to give for people planning on joining Greek life?
Don't go in it with preconceived misconceptions. It is hard to do but in order to find an organization that you want to be a part of you need to make sure you would want to be a part of it, even without the Greek affiliation and the nice house. You just want to better yourself and surround yourself with people who will help you do that and make it fun along the way! I really, really encourage everyone (especially Knox students) to go through recruitment. If it isn't your cup of tea, no one will hold it against you. And I really do mean that! No one holds hostilities against the girl who showed up and realized that this really isn't something that she has time for, etc. I hold a job, work as an intern, I am overloading my courses this term and taking all math classes at that, I am charge of recruitment with Panhel, I have track training, and I am our VPCommunications and despite how busy my schedule is I know that I would never drop Pi Phi for anything and I would love if other people were able to experience the same feeling. I know that every school is different and our campus is so small, but from what I have learned being here, no matter who you are or how busy you are you should at least think about it.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Making A Difference: Volunteering
He was in a wheelchair. He had pretty much lost the ability to communicate, to react to the world around him, and to take care of himself. He was ancient, the wrinkles deep in his weathered skin. His daughter had lovingly tied a green balloon to his wheel chair. I saw him smile, and he playfully bounced the balloon with a closed fist. I saw so much joy in his face, it made me ashamed. I was ashamed because today (or most days really), I have not felt or expressed unmitigated joy in simply being alive.
Today, I volunteered at the St. Mary's Square Fall Fling. The center services people with disabilities, as well as the extremely elderly or in need of extreme medical care. Their link is found here: http://www.smsliving.org/
Two other freshman girls and I helped set up, served food, and put everything up. It was work that kept us on our feet for 3-4 hours. And I would do it again tomorrow, if need be.
There is something very powerful about making a difference. Our world is full of problems. Everywhere you turn, something else seems to be wrong. Some days, I stop and I feel terror for the future. I lose faith in humanity, in hope, in doing anything for my future, because why try for nothing redeeming? But when I volunteer, I know that in my small sphere of influence, I am making a difference.
I am one very small being. I will NEVER change the world. But, I can make a difference. I can bring a smile to someone's face, or help someone with their homework, or just listen to someone's troubles, even if I am powerless to change it. And, soon enough, the beautiful network of human connection, of human EMPATHY, can make collective differences. Each and every one of us has the ability to affect someone's life for the better, even in the most minute ways. That is why I choose to volunteer.
College is an amazing time to volunteer. Even the smallest colleges will have large amounts of volunteer opportunities, for all kinds of interest. My friend Ella hopes to be an Environmental Studies major, so she is joining an environmental club that is fighting to make Knox green. I myself am planning on volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and Alpha Phi Omega (which is a co-ed service fraternity). Later on, I plan on joining Reading Buddies and a mentoring program. There are literally a million ways to volunteer AND follow your passions. If a college doesn't have what are you looking for, create your own opportunity. College has so much freedom, and you can use that freedom to fight for your causes.
I had fun, and I got a lot out of it too. I made a new friend, a girl in my class I have never talked to. I also got to hang out with my friend Ella. I got to help at a center that I believe is filled with heroes. I got to come home feeling accomplished on a Sunday. And I won a pumpkin, in the raffle. That's the thing about volunteering. You aren't just making a difference in the lives of others, but changing your own life. The changes can be intangible, like making you more responsible, more sympathetic, a better listener, or a better leader. The changes can be tangible, like a FREAKING PUMPKIN :D
My point is, whatever your cause or interest, use college to make a difference and volunteer. It truly means the most in our crazy, messed up world.
Much Love,
Celinda!
Me and Herman!! :D
Today, I volunteered at the St. Mary's Square Fall Fling. The center services people with disabilities, as well as the extremely elderly or in need of extreme medical care. Their link is found here: http://www.smsliving.org/
Two other freshman girls and I helped set up, served food, and put everything up. It was work that kept us on our feet for 3-4 hours. And I would do it again tomorrow, if need be.
There is something very powerful about making a difference. Our world is full of problems. Everywhere you turn, something else seems to be wrong. Some days, I stop and I feel terror for the future. I lose faith in humanity, in hope, in doing anything for my future, because why try for nothing redeeming? But when I volunteer, I know that in my small sphere of influence, I am making a difference.
I am one very small being. I will NEVER change the world. But, I can make a difference. I can bring a smile to someone's face, or help someone with their homework, or just listen to someone's troubles, even if I am powerless to change it. And, soon enough, the beautiful network of human connection, of human EMPATHY, can make collective differences. Each and every one of us has the ability to affect someone's life for the better, even in the most minute ways. That is why I choose to volunteer.
College is an amazing time to volunteer. Even the smallest colleges will have large amounts of volunteer opportunities, for all kinds of interest. My friend Ella hopes to be an Environmental Studies major, so she is joining an environmental club that is fighting to make Knox green. I myself am planning on volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and Alpha Phi Omega (which is a co-ed service fraternity). Later on, I plan on joining Reading Buddies and a mentoring program. There are literally a million ways to volunteer AND follow your passions. If a college doesn't have what are you looking for, create your own opportunity. College has so much freedom, and you can use that freedom to fight for your causes.
I had fun, and I got a lot out of it too. I made a new friend, a girl in my class I have never talked to. I also got to hang out with my friend Ella. I got to help at a center that I believe is filled with heroes. I got to come home feeling accomplished on a Sunday. And I won a pumpkin, in the raffle. That's the thing about volunteering. You aren't just making a difference in the lives of others, but changing your own life. The changes can be intangible, like making you more responsible, more sympathetic, a better listener, or a better leader. The changes can be tangible, like a FREAKING PUMPKIN :D
My point is, whatever your cause or interest, use college to make a difference and volunteer. It truly means the most in our crazy, messed up world.
Much Love,
Celinda!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Partying in G-Burg! (The Truth about Partying)
I went to a frat party last night.
As I was there, half my mind was on a blog I wanted to write (I know, sad. Don't judge me :P). This is a blog about drinking, pre-gaming, campus safety, alcohol poisoning, being sober, parties, grinding, and how to navigate it all. I am not here to tell you not to drink or party or grind. I'm not here to tell you TO drink or party or grind. No, I am just going to give you information, and let you draw your own conclusions. Each person will live their lives differently in college, and that's okay.
So, I decided I would go to the Sigma Nu party. They weren't serving alcohol and there was going to be a DJ. It sounded like fun. I put on my make-up, a cute little top, and went out with my friends. And overall, the night was a lot of fun. I danced, I laughed, I felt all pretty and dressed up. And even though the fire alarm went off and we decided to come back around 12:30, it was still a good night.
I'm sharing my own experience because I want to dispel all the rumors of college partying, such as:
1) All people drink, or the party is centered around drinking
Not necessarily. Drinking does happen. Sometimes it's excessive and sometimes it's light/social. If you don't want to drink, you should never feel pressured to do so. Surround yourself with other sober, fun people. The girls I went with didn't drink a drop of alcohol, and we had fun. If you do want to drink some in college, then there are some important points to keep in mind:
-Have a solid plan of getting home, or keeping safe. Many count on a person, known as the Sober Friend (I myself have offered to be the sober friend that they can call). Also, have Campus Safety's number. Their first job is to get you HOME safe and sound. Rape, sexual assault, and other negative side affects of alcohol can happen, so have a plan to keep safe. One of my suite mates wears heels when she doesn't want to drink too much, as a safeguard, for example (she wants to still be able to walk in them, so it stops her from drinking too much).
-Be aware of alcohol poisoning. Someone I know had to go to the hospital during orientation to get their stomach pumped. Because their room mate and RA knew the signs of alcohol poisoning, the two of them SAVED the person's life. Here are the symptoms to look for http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alcohol-poisoning/DS00861/DSECTION=symptoms. If you suspect someone you know is sick, or might have alcohol poisoning, contact your RA/Campus Safety as well as 911. You don't want someone to die because of being passive.
-Try to moderate your drinking, or at least try to avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol throughout the week. Alcohol dependence is a very real thing, and it would suck to go to rehab (which happened for a few Knox kids last year) or develop alcoholism before you're even legally ALLOWED to drink.
2) I have to grind at parties
Again, not necessarily. Does grinding happen? Yes, a whole hell lot of it. Imagine a Uni dance, without Kovacs, and you can guess how much grinding happens. I personally don't like grinding because I think it's like having vertical sex. As a dancer, I much prefer enjoying the beat of the music and being an individual. Some others just might not like grinding. If you do like grinding, then remember to use your common sense. If you feel uncomfortable with the person you're dancing with, or you feel like it might be heading towards sexual assault or "unwanted touching" (please, hold your snickers), then feel feel to push them away, or get a friend or a big dude to help you out. If you are a guy and feel awkward, then push them away and let the crowd create space for you. Remember, you have a voice, so say NO if you mean NO. You can enjoy dancing without grinding or with grinding. It's your choice, remember that. Also, be prepared for some third wheeling. I was dancing, and a couple was grinding behind me, and they were getting into it. So much so, they kept backing up into me. So. Awkward.
3) I have to go to parties
NO YOU DON'T. While the pressures of Greek life will vary from college to college, you never have to go to a party if you don't want to. The beauty of college is there is so much to do! If you like writing or books, find literary clubs. If you like volunteering, join volunteer opportunities/social action clubs. If you like sports, join intramurals. My point is, if you don't want to party, find like-minded people. Not all college students want to party. Similarly, if you want to party light or party sober, there will be people like that too. My friends like to dance and be social and dress up, but not drinking and grinding. It takes all types to make a college. There will be people who drink and party and grind and have lots of sex. There will be people who never go out, never really make friends, who never date, and graduate anonymously. Those are the two extremes, and almost everyone will fall in between them.
Quick Descriptions/Thoughts:
-Pre-gaming is the act of drinking before going to a party, or drinking so you arrive buzzed. Often times, those who pre-game plan to drink more later on. If you join pre-gaming activities, make sure you know your limits. If you are a lightweight, try to avoid pre-gaming.
-Never leave your drink unattended if you can. I'm not going to write a college horror story, but bad things can happen. Drugs or alcohol can be slipped in your drink. Please be safe. Hold onto it. If you need to go to the bathroom or something short-term, have a trusted individual hold it. If you want to go dance, go ahead and throw your drink out or gulp it. It's better to waste it or to not savor it than to open yourself up to something dangerous.
-Many people concentrate on the drinking aspect of frat parties, but drugs can play a role too. There was definitely a few people high at last night's party. I won't stand here and tell you not to do drugs. I hope you won't do drugs. Generally, pot and mild drugs aren't bad unless they are hindering your everyday function (going to class, completing homework, honoring promises). Usually though, it's best to stay away from drugs. Last night their was a high guy who kept dancing nearer and nearer to us, backing us to a corner. Finally, my friend Odessa and I went to get a drink. Really, we were escaping the creepy high guy. If you feel uncomfortable, again, just move, push them away, or pull a friend or a big guy over to help you out. Just like alcohol, people react differently to drugs, so be careful.
I hope you didn't think any of this was a lecture. Really, I want all of you to go out and have fun in college. If you want to rush a sorority or fraternity, THAT'S OKAY. If you never want to step foot in a Greek house, THAT'S OKAY TOO. Just be smart, have common sense, create a network of support (campus safety, RAs, sober friends), and know that you have the power of choice. You can say yes or no to anything when it comes to yourself and what you're comfortable with.
Much Love,
Celinda :]
As I was there, half my mind was on a blog I wanted to write (I know, sad. Don't judge me :P). This is a blog about drinking, pre-gaming, campus safety, alcohol poisoning, being sober, parties, grinding, and how to navigate it all. I am not here to tell you not to drink or party or grind. I'm not here to tell you TO drink or party or grind. No, I am just going to give you information, and let you draw your own conclusions. Each person will live their lives differently in college, and that's okay.
So, I decided I would go to the Sigma Nu party. They weren't serving alcohol and there was going to be a DJ. It sounded like fun. I put on my make-up, a cute little top, and went out with my friends. And overall, the night was a lot of fun. I danced, I laughed, I felt all pretty and dressed up. And even though the fire alarm went off and we decided to come back around 12:30, it was still a good night.
I'm sharing my own experience because I want to dispel all the rumors of college partying, such as:
1) All people drink, or the party is centered around drinking
Not necessarily. Drinking does happen. Sometimes it's excessive and sometimes it's light/social. If you don't want to drink, you should never feel pressured to do so. Surround yourself with other sober, fun people. The girls I went with didn't drink a drop of alcohol, and we had fun. If you do want to drink some in college, then there are some important points to keep in mind:
-Have a solid plan of getting home, or keeping safe. Many count on a person, known as the Sober Friend (I myself have offered to be the sober friend that they can call). Also, have Campus Safety's number. Their first job is to get you HOME safe and sound. Rape, sexual assault, and other negative side affects of alcohol can happen, so have a plan to keep safe. One of my suite mates wears heels when she doesn't want to drink too much, as a safeguard, for example (she wants to still be able to walk in them, so it stops her from drinking too much).
-Be aware of alcohol poisoning. Someone I know had to go to the hospital during orientation to get their stomach pumped. Because their room mate and RA knew the signs of alcohol poisoning, the two of them SAVED the person's life. Here are the symptoms to look for http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alcohol-poisoning/DS00861/DSECTION=symptoms. If you suspect someone you know is sick, or might have alcohol poisoning, contact your RA/Campus Safety as well as 911. You don't want someone to die because of being passive.
-Try to moderate your drinking, or at least try to avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol throughout the week. Alcohol dependence is a very real thing, and it would suck to go to rehab (which happened for a few Knox kids last year) or develop alcoholism before you're even legally ALLOWED to drink.
2) I have to grind at parties
Again, not necessarily. Does grinding happen? Yes, a whole hell lot of it. Imagine a Uni dance, without Kovacs, and you can guess how much grinding happens. I personally don't like grinding because I think it's like having vertical sex. As a dancer, I much prefer enjoying the beat of the music and being an individual. Some others just might not like grinding. If you do like grinding, then remember to use your common sense. If you feel uncomfortable with the person you're dancing with, or you feel like it might be heading towards sexual assault or "unwanted touching" (please, hold your snickers), then feel feel to push them away, or get a friend or a big dude to help you out. If you are a guy and feel awkward, then push them away and let the crowd create space for you. Remember, you have a voice, so say NO if you mean NO. You can enjoy dancing without grinding or with grinding. It's your choice, remember that. Also, be prepared for some third wheeling. I was dancing, and a couple was grinding behind me, and they were getting into it. So much so, they kept backing up into me. So. Awkward.
3) I have to go to parties
NO YOU DON'T. While the pressures of Greek life will vary from college to college, you never have to go to a party if you don't want to. The beauty of college is there is so much to do! If you like writing or books, find literary clubs. If you like volunteering, join volunteer opportunities/social action clubs. If you like sports, join intramurals. My point is, if you don't want to party, find like-minded people. Not all college students want to party. Similarly, if you want to party light or party sober, there will be people like that too. My friends like to dance and be social and dress up, but not drinking and grinding. It takes all types to make a college. There will be people who drink and party and grind and have lots of sex. There will be people who never go out, never really make friends, who never date, and graduate anonymously. Those are the two extremes, and almost everyone will fall in between them.
Quick Descriptions/Thoughts:
-Pre-gaming is the act of drinking before going to a party, or drinking so you arrive buzzed. Often times, those who pre-game plan to drink more later on. If you join pre-gaming activities, make sure you know your limits. If you are a lightweight, try to avoid pre-gaming.
-Never leave your drink unattended if you can. I'm not going to write a college horror story, but bad things can happen. Drugs or alcohol can be slipped in your drink. Please be safe. Hold onto it. If you need to go to the bathroom or something short-term, have a trusted individual hold it. If you want to go dance, go ahead and throw your drink out or gulp it. It's better to waste it or to not savor it than to open yourself up to something dangerous.
-Many people concentrate on the drinking aspect of frat parties, but drugs can play a role too. There was definitely a few people high at last night's party. I won't stand here and tell you not to do drugs. I hope you won't do drugs. Generally, pot and mild drugs aren't bad unless they are hindering your everyday function (going to class, completing homework, honoring promises). Usually though, it's best to stay away from drugs. Last night their was a high guy who kept dancing nearer and nearer to us, backing us to a corner. Finally, my friend Odessa and I went to get a drink. Really, we were escaping the creepy high guy. If you feel uncomfortable, again, just move, push them away, or pull a friend or a big guy over to help you out. Just like alcohol, people react differently to drugs, so be careful.
I hope you didn't think any of this was a lecture. Really, I want all of you to go out and have fun in college. If you want to rush a sorority or fraternity, THAT'S OKAY. If you never want to step foot in a Greek house, THAT'S OKAY TOO. Just be smart, have common sense, create a network of support (campus safety, RAs, sober friends), and know that you have the power of choice. You can say yes or no to anything when it comes to yourself and what you're comfortable with.
Much Love,
Celinda :]
Friday, September 16, 2011
Weekly Roundup! :D
I have decided that since Fridays are the end of the academic week, I would use Fridays as my weekly roundup. Here I share the best, the worst, the funniest, the most embarrassing, and the most successful parts of the week!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I passed the two daily quizzes I have taken so far in Biology
2) I have a new Spanish study buddy
3) I skyped/called with several Uni people (Simone, Revathi, Heather, and Chris)
4) Shady and I make it a daily activity to do homework together in the afternoon
5) I stamped, signed, and sealed several hundred letters for prospective students
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) Waking up late Monday morning
2) Having my lab extend past 3:50 because we kept making mistakes
3) People being loud in and around the dorm past midnight, when I'm trying to sleep
4) Wonky phone service
5) Not going to the gym
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
My friends and I were walking up to our suite one day. Since I was in the lead, I pulled out my keys and tried to open the door. The first key didn't work, so I tried the second one. It didn't work either, so I freaked out, saying "Guys, I think my keys are broken!". They were laughing. It was then I realized I was frantically trying to open the door to suite 5. Legitimately shaking the door knob, so suite 5 would be well aware of the crazy person trying to break down their door...
(They still tease me every time we go past that door...such good friends I'm making in college...)
Words of Wisdom:
Right before graduation, Zen Bear (aka Erick D.) told me not to worry so much about things. Looking back at all the worry I had this week (waking up late, first full week of school, social issues), compared to what actually happened, I realized how right he was. Bad things happen. Or, you might be waiting for bad things to happen. However, excessive worry not only causes undue stress, but can actually hinder you from living life. So, try worrying less.
3 Most Essential Items Used This Week:
1) Sweaters. It got freaking cold up here in G-Burg :[
2) Headphones. You live with a lot of people, and those people bring a lot of people over. Headphones are essential for escaping the noise.
3) Cellphones. Not just for calling home, but for communication with Uni kids and Knox kids, as a clock, and as a supplemental alarm. As I learned the hard way Monday.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Many scientists were skeptical of Darwin's idea of Natural Selection. When they first came across Mendel's work, they thought it actually was in conflict with the idea of Natural Selection. Eventually though, scientists combined both theories to create a Modern Synthesis of Population Genetics :]
Social/College: The Science and Math building (SMC) is unfortunately shaped like a swastika...whoopsies architects...
Best Food Item in the Caf:
The fries, which include waffle, curly, and smiley face. SO GOOD NOM NOM NOM
Plans for the Weekend:
Soooo many. Tonight I am going to a frat party, possibly a concert being held here. Tomorrow my suite mates and I are going to dinner at the Caf, then going to go see THE LION KING IN 3D (My. Life. Rocks.). Then Sunday, I am volunteering at a carnival held at the Living Center, which services people with disabilities. Busy, busy!
And that's a week of my life at Knox. Now off to study for my Spanish Oral Exam!
Much Love,
Celinda
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I passed the two daily quizzes I have taken so far in Biology
2) I have a new Spanish study buddy
3) I skyped/called with several Uni people (Simone, Revathi, Heather, and Chris)
4) Shady and I make it a daily activity to do homework together in the afternoon
5) I stamped, signed, and sealed several hundred letters for prospective students
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) Waking up late Monday morning
2) Having my lab extend past 3:50 because we kept making mistakes
3) People being loud in and around the dorm past midnight, when I'm trying to sleep
4) Wonky phone service
5) Not going to the gym
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
My friends and I were walking up to our suite one day. Since I was in the lead, I pulled out my keys and tried to open the door. The first key didn't work, so I tried the second one. It didn't work either, so I freaked out, saying "Guys, I think my keys are broken!". They were laughing. It was then I realized I was frantically trying to open the door to suite 5. Legitimately shaking the door knob, so suite 5 would be well aware of the crazy person trying to break down their door...
(They still tease me every time we go past that door...such good friends I'm making in college...)
Words of Wisdom:
Right before graduation, Zen Bear (aka Erick D.) told me not to worry so much about things. Looking back at all the worry I had this week (waking up late, first full week of school, social issues), compared to what actually happened, I realized how right he was. Bad things happen. Or, you might be waiting for bad things to happen. However, excessive worry not only causes undue stress, but can actually hinder you from living life. So, try worrying less.
3 Most Essential Items Used This Week:
1) Sweaters. It got freaking cold up here in G-Burg :[
2) Headphones. You live with a lot of people, and those people bring a lot of people over. Headphones are essential for escaping the noise.
3) Cellphones. Not just for calling home, but for communication with Uni kids and Knox kids, as a clock, and as a supplemental alarm. As I learned the hard way Monday.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Many scientists were skeptical of Darwin's idea of Natural Selection. When they first came across Mendel's work, they thought it actually was in conflict with the idea of Natural Selection. Eventually though, scientists combined both theories to create a Modern Synthesis of Population Genetics :]
Social/College: The Science and Math building (SMC) is unfortunately shaped like a swastika...whoopsies architects...
Best Food Item in the Caf:
The fries, which include waffle, curly, and smiley face. SO GOOD NOM NOM NOM
Plans for the Weekend:
Soooo many. Tonight I am going to a frat party, possibly a concert being held here. Tomorrow my suite mates and I are going to dinner at the Caf, then going to go see THE LION KING IN 3D (My. Life. Rocks.). Then Sunday, I am volunteering at a carnival held at the Living Center, which services people with disabilities. Busy, busy!
And that's a week of my life at Knox. Now off to study for my Spanish Oral Exam!
Much Love,
Celinda
Monday, September 12, 2011
Waking Up Late...
I woke up this morning feeling really, really uneasy. Something was off. The sunlight in my room wasn't like it usually was. The whole aura of everything felt off. I'm not even talking crazy hoodoo stuff here. I looked at my clock, already knowing one of my worst nightmares had been fulfilled. I had accidentally slept in. 10:36 to be exact.
At 10:36 on a normal, "Celinda woke up" day, I would be walking FROM my biology class to my Spanish class.
I broke out sobbing. If you haven't read my blog entries http://celinda-davis.blogspot.com/2011/09/loserville-population-me.html or http://celinda-davis.blogspot.com/2011/09/homesickness.html, know that the social part about college is a little difficult for me. Because of that, or maybe because of Uni, I really want to succeed at the academic part of it. So, there I was, sobbing, calling my mother, running in and out of the shower.
I walked across an empty campus. Everyone else was either in class, at home, at work, or studying in a cozy chair at the library. Many of you know of the "walk of shame", the one after overnight shenanigans. This morning, I walked a very different kind of walk of shame. The sun was shining. It was warm. I was wearing one of my favorite shirts. But I felt shame, with tears still clinging to my eyelashes. I walked into Spanish, halfway through the class period.
I have done that at Uni a few times, but it never felt absolutely shameful because I knew everyone. Not today. I walked into a class of half strangers. Looking back, I realized people glanced my way, gave me a sympathetic look, and went back to listening. One guy even smiled. It was a private joke because on the first day, we had shortened periods, so he had missed the entire class.
I listened, even answered a question after I got my bearings. After class, I talked to my Espanol Profesora. She listened as I spilled my plight. Though my extreme tardiness counted for one of my allotted 3 absences, she was very understanding.
I then went to lunch with one of my friends, and proceeded to pig out on bacon, cookies, and fries. Honestly, I think it's excusable. Today was NOT my day. After lunch, I went to work. *Women: At work, I discovered yet another reason that made today sucky. I discovered it a little too late. I walked awkwardly this afternoon.*
Work was actually fun, I put stamps on a ton of prospective "Hey, we're gonna be at your school on blah blah blah date" cards. There was one from PBL, and I remember we play them. I also met a really nice senior that also works at the Admissions Office. I went to class directly afterwards. It was also fun, with an interesting discussion. And people were nodding at my comments! It was like Uni English all over again! (Btw, I noticed I do really weird hand gestures, and I also trail off at the end of my comments. I noticed it in Uni English, but it's so much more apparent here...)
All in all, the day improved. But, the feelings of shame and a sense of failure are natural at first. The important thing to do is not to continue feeling that way.
Here's how to turn it around:
1) Remember that even if a class isn't marking attendance every time, you are hurting your own education by skipping out. Try to avoid skipping.
2) If you do skip, or miss a class from sickness or sleeping in, remember that this happens to everyone. The senior I was talking to at work said it happened to her at least once every term.
3) Panicking and/or crying is definitely allowed, but should not hinder your "get the heck out of bed and into class ASAP" process.
4) It's okay to eat gobs of sugar and salt on these kinds of days.
5) Email or talk to professors. Even if you lose points or get an absence, they are understanding, and they respect your maturity and openness.
6) Ask for notes, do extra work, or do alternative homework.
7) If it's an alarm issue (...), find alternative or supplemental ways to wake up. I'm getting a wake-up call all week from my mom, as well as setting my alarm.
I hope you all learn from my difficult day today. Remember though, in the long run, missing a class isn't going to make or break you. I can still rock these classes. I can still get my homework done. I can still get a great education. It's not the end of the world. It might feel like that at first. But, by the end of the day, you feel okay. Growing up, waking up on time, finishing deadlines without a million people to remind you, it's all difficult and new when you first start at college. You will mess up! Learn from those mistakes though, and grow. Because it happens to everyone, and it's normal.
And, on the bright side, I've caught up on my sleep :]
....
On second thought, it's too soon for jokes.
Much love!
Celinda McLatePants
At 10:36 on a normal, "Celinda woke up" day, I would be walking FROM my biology class to my Spanish class.
I broke out sobbing. If you haven't read my blog entries http://celinda-davis.blogspot.com/2011/09/loserville-population-me.html or http://celinda-davis.blogspot.com/2011/09/homesickness.html, know that the social part about college is a little difficult for me. Because of that, or maybe because of Uni, I really want to succeed at the academic part of it. So, there I was, sobbing, calling my mother, running in and out of the shower.
I walked across an empty campus. Everyone else was either in class, at home, at work, or studying in a cozy chair at the library. Many of you know of the "walk of shame", the one after overnight shenanigans. This morning, I walked a very different kind of walk of shame. The sun was shining. It was warm. I was wearing one of my favorite shirts. But I felt shame, with tears still clinging to my eyelashes. I walked into Spanish, halfway through the class period.
I have done that at Uni a few times, but it never felt absolutely shameful because I knew everyone. Not today. I walked into a class of half strangers. Looking back, I realized people glanced my way, gave me a sympathetic look, and went back to listening. One guy even smiled. It was a private joke because on the first day, we had shortened periods, so he had missed the entire class.
I listened, even answered a question after I got my bearings. After class, I talked to my Espanol Profesora. She listened as I spilled my plight. Though my extreme tardiness counted for one of my allotted 3 absences, she was very understanding.
I then went to lunch with one of my friends, and proceeded to pig out on bacon, cookies, and fries. Honestly, I think it's excusable. Today was NOT my day. After lunch, I went to work. *Women: At work, I discovered yet another reason that made today sucky. I discovered it a little too late. I walked awkwardly this afternoon.*
Work was actually fun, I put stamps on a ton of prospective "Hey, we're gonna be at your school on blah blah blah date" cards. There was one from PBL, and I remember we play them. I also met a really nice senior that also works at the Admissions Office. I went to class directly afterwards. It was also fun, with an interesting discussion. And people were nodding at my comments! It was like Uni English all over again! (Btw, I noticed I do really weird hand gestures, and I also trail off at the end of my comments. I noticed it in Uni English, but it's so much more apparent here...)
All in all, the day improved. But, the feelings of shame and a sense of failure are natural at first. The important thing to do is not to continue feeling that way.
Here's how to turn it around:
1) Remember that even if a class isn't marking attendance every time, you are hurting your own education by skipping out. Try to avoid skipping.
2) If you do skip, or miss a class from sickness or sleeping in, remember that this happens to everyone. The senior I was talking to at work said it happened to her at least once every term.
3) Panicking and/or crying is definitely allowed, but should not hinder your "get the heck out of bed and into class ASAP" process.
4) It's okay to eat gobs of sugar and salt on these kinds of days.
5) Email or talk to professors. Even if you lose points or get an absence, they are understanding, and they respect your maturity and openness.
6) Ask for notes, do extra work, or do alternative homework.
7) If it's an alarm issue (...), find alternative or supplemental ways to wake up. I'm getting a wake-up call all week from my mom, as well as setting my alarm.
I hope you all learn from my difficult day today. Remember though, in the long run, missing a class isn't going to make or break you. I can still rock these classes. I can still get my homework done. I can still get a great education. It's not the end of the world. It might feel like that at first. But, by the end of the day, you feel okay. Growing up, waking up on time, finishing deadlines without a million people to remind you, it's all difficult and new when you first start at college. You will mess up! Learn from those mistakes though, and grow. Because it happens to everyone, and it's normal.
And, on the bright side, I've caught up on my sleep :]
....
On second thought, it's too soon for jokes.
Much love!
Celinda McLatePants
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Playing Adult
You know those excessively productive days? Today was one of them.
First off, I woke up an hour earlier than I meant to. High school me would have cursed the world and gone back to bed. Adult me threw off the sheets, scampered down from my lofted bed, and decided to be productive. I honestly don't know myself anymore...
I went downstairs, with my shorts, my teddy bear, and my sewing kit. I then spent time, on a Sunday MORNING, fixing the hem of my shorts and a hole in my bear. Who am I??
After eating brunch with a girl in the suite next to me, it was laundry time. I am pretty familiar with laundry, but I was still daunted. I took my clothes out of my hamper, put them in my giant canvas duffel, grabbed my bag of quarters, all the laundry supplies, and my homework, and went downstairs. When I got down there, I panicked. Where was the water? Where were all the dials??? I called the one person I know I can: Mom.
"MOM! Do I wash with warm water??? What should I do? Wait, I think I figured it out! Bye Mom!"
...Obviously an adult.
Well, I got my laundry going. I decided that the laundry room was really conducive for homework, so there I was, reading the Iliad and my biology textbook while my clothes got all clean and nice. And I finished my reading! So. Good. At. Life. :D
Then, I went to the library, because I found a sentence typo in my freshman writing class paper, and I had to fix it (thanks Uni...). After I got all that done, I decided to set up my printer.
...
The only thing I can say was it wasn't successful. That is honestly the best thing I can say. It's just sitting over here, looking sad and pathetic and not quite working. So, I abandoned it to go sit outside with my friends Odessa and Shady.
In college, you have to get yourself to do the mundane tasks. Making it kind of adventure, or "playing" adult helps you through the fact that you are actually doing laundry or cleaning your room or washing dishes or taking out the trash. This isn't living at home. You are now in charge of your own household, which is so freaking awesome! And it also sucks, because you have all the responsibility of taking care of that household. But, keep at it. It helps that I have an appointed day or two where I get it all done. For me, Sundays are my day. We'll see how well I stick to my schedule. I will let you know next Sunday!
Much love,
Celinda!
First off, I woke up an hour earlier than I meant to. High school me would have cursed the world and gone back to bed. Adult me threw off the sheets, scampered down from my lofted bed, and decided to be productive. I honestly don't know myself anymore...
I went downstairs, with my shorts, my teddy bear, and my sewing kit. I then spent time, on a Sunday MORNING, fixing the hem of my shorts and a hole in my bear. Who am I??
After eating brunch with a girl in the suite next to me, it was laundry time. I am pretty familiar with laundry, but I was still daunted. I took my clothes out of my hamper, put them in my giant canvas duffel, grabbed my bag of quarters, all the laundry supplies, and my homework, and went downstairs. When I got down there, I panicked. Where was the water? Where were all the dials??? I called the one person I know I can: Mom.
"MOM! Do I wash with warm water??? What should I do? Wait, I think I figured it out! Bye Mom!"
...Obviously an adult.
Well, I got my laundry going. I decided that the laundry room was really conducive for homework, so there I was, reading the Iliad and my biology textbook while my clothes got all clean and nice. And I finished my reading! So. Good. At. Life. :D
Then, I went to the library, because I found a sentence typo in my freshman writing class paper, and I had to fix it (thanks Uni...). After I got all that done, I decided to set up my printer.
...
The only thing I can say was it wasn't successful. That is honestly the best thing I can say. It's just sitting over here, looking sad and pathetic and not quite working. So, I abandoned it to go sit outside with my friends Odessa and Shady.
In college, you have to get yourself to do the mundane tasks. Making it kind of adventure, or "playing" adult helps you through the fact that you are actually doing laundry or cleaning your room or washing dishes or taking out the trash. This isn't living at home. You are now in charge of your own household, which is so freaking awesome! And it also sucks, because you have all the responsibility of taking care of that household. But, keep at it. It helps that I have an appointed day or two where I get it all done. For me, Sundays are my day. We'll see how well I stick to my schedule. I will let you know next Sunday!
 |
| (My coin purse, a gift from Cristina! Laundry costs a whopping $1.50, washing and drying combined, per load...) |
 |
| (Look at it. Look. Pathetic.) |
Much love,
Celinda!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Loserville, Population: Me
I. AM. A. LOSER.
Why? Because I rather do my biology homework on a Saturday night than go out to a frat party. I know where this party is. I know people going. I still refuse to go. Why?
Because I'm a loser who knows what I'm comfortable with.
I hate partying. Not the, let's bake cookies or watch a movie or even dance in Zach K-G's basement parties. I actually love hanging out with people. I love making jokes. I love eating. No, I hate the parties where you go out to be wild and to get drunk. I hate drunk people. I've been exposed with what long term alcohol does to people and relationships, so I hate drinking. I don't mind a drink or two. I have known plenty of people who drink from time to time and lead productive, healthy lives. No, I hate hard core partying. And it's really hard for me to be that person right now.
Half my suite mates are going out to party tonight. They look beautiful and adorable and perfect. And I'm sitting here in my double ponytails, my UFU shirt, and my bio homework. They will have an amazing night and I will have a lonely night. I am half tempted to put makeup on, put on booty shorts and a tank top, and go out just so I appear social. I would be miserable doing it, but at least I wouldn't sit here in my loneliness. I want to go home so bad, it hurts. I have literally no money to spend, so I'm stranded in Galesburg. I literally feel most comfortable with homework. I can't wait for the weekend to end, so I don't feel like a loser anymore. It's hard to be a loser when you're busy with school and work and extracurriculars. I wish the organizations I gave my email to will just email me so I can have something else to do.
It's hard to talk to people here sometimes. Even people I thought weren't into partying were like "I guess I'll check out the party at Beta...." and I just want to scream to the heavens "No one is making you go! It's okay not to go!"
But is it okay not to go? Is it okay not to have anything to do on a Saturday night but think? Is it okay to skip out on parties if you're not comfortable going?
It's been a week since I got here. And it's been a really emotional week because it's been a really long time since I have felt so much like a loser. At Uni I felt comfortable talking to people. Even at my shyest, I still felt generally okay. I had friends no matter what. Friends that would wait for you, or inquire where you are. I had friends who I had a million jokes with. I know it's only the first week, but I'm looking at the next four years with terror. Because I'm really afraid of being alone.
Many of you will go to college and feel completely comfortable. I know many of my friends are at their respective schools. Maybe they are better at social settings than I am. Maybe it's the people they're with. Maybe it's the timing. Who knows why. What I do know is, if you ever feel that way, I'm saying right now that it's okay to be a loser. Because though you might feel lonely, you are safe and you a comfortable. I know I'll be okay, and I will be pretty happy tonight because I chose NOT to go. Yes, I'm missing out on an opportunity to experience a frat party. But there is plenty of things I won't experience. Hopefully, there will be plenty of opportunities to experience all the things I actually want to do.
Honestly, if the reason for me going to a frat party tonight is "Well, I've never experienced a frat party, I should go to at least one", then I rather be the loser who stays here with homework, then goes to bed at a reasonable hour.
Much love,
Mayor of Loserville
Why? Because I rather do my biology homework on a Saturday night than go out to a frat party. I know where this party is. I know people going. I still refuse to go. Why?
Because I'm a loser who knows what I'm comfortable with.
I hate partying. Not the, let's bake cookies or watch a movie or even dance in Zach K-G's basement parties. I actually love hanging out with people. I love making jokes. I love eating. No, I hate the parties where you go out to be wild and to get drunk. I hate drunk people. I've been exposed with what long term alcohol does to people and relationships, so I hate drinking. I don't mind a drink or two. I have known plenty of people who drink from time to time and lead productive, healthy lives. No, I hate hard core partying. And it's really hard for me to be that person right now.
Half my suite mates are going out to party tonight. They look beautiful and adorable and perfect. And I'm sitting here in my double ponytails, my UFU shirt, and my bio homework. They will have an amazing night and I will have a lonely night. I am half tempted to put makeup on, put on booty shorts and a tank top, and go out just so I appear social. I would be miserable doing it, but at least I wouldn't sit here in my loneliness. I want to go home so bad, it hurts. I have literally no money to spend, so I'm stranded in Galesburg. I literally feel most comfortable with homework. I can't wait for the weekend to end, so I don't feel like a loser anymore. It's hard to be a loser when you're busy with school and work and extracurriculars. I wish the organizations I gave my email to will just email me so I can have something else to do.
It's hard to talk to people here sometimes. Even people I thought weren't into partying were like "I guess I'll check out the party at Beta...." and I just want to scream to the heavens "No one is making you go! It's okay not to go!"
But is it okay not to go? Is it okay not to have anything to do on a Saturday night but think? Is it okay to skip out on parties if you're not comfortable going?
It's been a week since I got here. And it's been a really emotional week because it's been a really long time since I have felt so much like a loser. At Uni I felt comfortable talking to people. Even at my shyest, I still felt generally okay. I had friends no matter what. Friends that would wait for you, or inquire where you are. I had friends who I had a million jokes with. I know it's only the first week, but I'm looking at the next four years with terror. Because I'm really afraid of being alone.
Many of you will go to college and feel completely comfortable. I know many of my friends are at their respective schools. Maybe they are better at social settings than I am. Maybe it's the people they're with. Maybe it's the timing. Who knows why. What I do know is, if you ever feel that way, I'm saying right now that it's okay to be a loser. Because though you might feel lonely, you are safe and you a comfortable. I know I'll be okay, and I will be pretty happy tonight because I chose NOT to go. Yes, I'm missing out on an opportunity to experience a frat party. But there is plenty of things I won't experience. Hopefully, there will be plenty of opportunities to experience all the things I actually want to do.
Honestly, if the reason for me going to a frat party tonight is "Well, I've never experienced a frat party, I should go to at least one", then I rather be the loser who stays here with homework, then goes to bed at a reasonable hour.
Much love,
Mayor of Loserville
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Campus Job/Spanish
WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
I have a job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And, of course it's in the admissions office (I told you I wasn't done).
I really have to thank my friend Shady for helping me. We have an online job bank, where you apply online. I applied to six jobs, and I began waiting patiently for a response. I started to panic. I really need a job, for my work study, so I really began to panic. That was when Shady told me she emailed the person offering the job she really wanted, and she got it. So, I emailed the woman offering the job.
Well, my first mistake? I wrote Clerica Services Position instead of Clerical Services Position in the subject heading.
My second mistake? I forgot to attach my resume.
FAIL
So, in the bluntest terms, I thought I was screwed. I really needed a job, and I thought I messed up the one job I truly wanted. I felt even lower when the woman only replied "I didn't get your resume". But, like so many things in life, things don't seem as bad as they seem. I got the job, and the woman was really nice.
In general, if you have work study on your finanical aid package, you will get preference over just people who want a job. But, don't take that as a security blanket. When you get to campus, go to any meetings involving payroll, forms, or jobs. Fill out all your financial tax forms that they give you. You will probably need any or all of the following: passport, state issued id, driver's license, social security card, void check, debit/credit number and card, and/or birth certificate, so BRING it. Also, bring your resume. That was what helped me a lot. If you have a system like me, an online application, go ahead and also send them an email. It shows maturity and initiative.
So, I got a job, and it starts Monday! I will let you know how it goes!
In other news, I started class today. Elementary Spanish. We practiced introducing ourselves, and the alphabet. It was actually interesting, and I like how we jumped in and are learning it in a roundabout Spanish-oriented way. I know that doesn't make sense, but I mean that she didn't write the English and Spanish on the board and have us repeat it in a monotonous way. Okay, all you Intensive Spanish and regular Spanish kids, don't laugh at me. But, I was sitting there, and at the end of class she said "This is the last time you will hear me speak English in class"
...
Don't leave me hanging here Profesora Dixon! Gahhh.
But, she was really nice, and I am excited about learning Spanish. I'm just really worried about doing badly. I will keep you updated on my Spanish progression (of course in the context of college, I'm not conceited lol).
Tomorrow, I have all three classes tomorrow, so that will either go extremely well or extremely badly. I'm a positive person, so let's go with glass half full of success :D
Muchos Amor,
Senorita Celinda
I have a job!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And, of course it's in the admissions office (I told you I wasn't done).
I really have to thank my friend Shady for helping me. We have an online job bank, where you apply online. I applied to six jobs, and I began waiting patiently for a response. I started to panic. I really need a job, for my work study, so I really began to panic. That was when Shady told me she emailed the person offering the job she really wanted, and she got it. So, I emailed the woman offering the job.
Well, my first mistake? I wrote Clerica Services Position instead of Clerical Services Position in the subject heading.
My second mistake? I forgot to attach my resume.
FAIL
So, in the bluntest terms, I thought I was screwed. I really needed a job, and I thought I messed up the one job I truly wanted. I felt even lower when the woman only replied "I didn't get your resume". But, like so many things in life, things don't seem as bad as they seem. I got the job, and the woman was really nice.
In general, if you have work study on your finanical aid package, you will get preference over just people who want a job. But, don't take that as a security blanket. When you get to campus, go to any meetings involving payroll, forms, or jobs. Fill out all your financial tax forms that they give you. You will probably need any or all of the following: passport, state issued id, driver's license, social security card, void check, debit/credit number and card, and/or birth certificate, so BRING it. Also, bring your resume. That was what helped me a lot. If you have a system like me, an online application, go ahead and also send them an email. It shows maturity and initiative.
So, I got a job, and it starts Monday! I will let you know how it goes!
In other news, I started class today. Elementary Spanish. We practiced introducing ourselves, and the alphabet. It was actually interesting, and I like how we jumped in and are learning it in a roundabout Spanish-oriented way. I know that doesn't make sense, but I mean that she didn't write the English and Spanish on the board and have us repeat it in a monotonous way. Okay, all you Intensive Spanish and regular Spanish kids, don't laugh at me. But, I was sitting there, and at the end of class she said "This is the last time you will hear me speak English in class"
...
Don't leave me hanging here Profesora Dixon! Gahhh.
But, she was really nice, and I am excited about learning Spanish. I'm just really worried about doing badly. I will keep you updated on my Spanish progression (of course in the context of college, I'm not conceited lol).
Tomorrow, I have all three classes tomorrow, so that will either go extremely well or extremely badly. I'm a positive person, so let's go with glass half full of success :D
Muchos Amor,
Senorita Celinda
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Orientation Wrap-Up
All in all, I participated in 2/3 of orientation activities. Some I skipped because I was lazy. Some I skipped because I was doing other things, like blogging and turning in health forms. Some I skipped because I was bonding with my suitemates. But, overall, I went to a ton of orientation. And I had a blast. There were some bumpy times. Like today, OMG. AT&T stopped working all morning. I spent $100 dollars just on books for ONE class. I then spent $242 dollars on TWO textbooks on Amazon...fortunately, they're ordered! And then, because I wore leggings today (those don't have pockets, if you don't know), I misplaced my keys THREE times.
...
But besides that, I'm having a great time. Part of that is because Pumphandle happened today.
Basically, Pumphandle is where all the faculty, staff, and students shake hands to welcome back returning people, and to welcome new ones. It's to create a community. It's to establish connections. It's to have a damn good time before classes start. The president starts by choosing a starting position. The next person, another faculty member, shakes her hand and stands next to her. Then, a third person shakes the president's hand, the faculty member's hand, then stands next to them. Get it? At the bottom of the blog entry there is a picture of Pumphandle last year.
After Pumphandle, my suitemates and I went to Target. So, I love my suitemates basically. Me and my friend Odessa went frolicking through Tarjay, looking for popcorn and laundry detergent. Oh the life of a college student :]
When we got back to the dorm, my suitemates Shady, Ella, and I put a fan together. Correction, we failed multiple times, until we rigged it together with a bottle opener and all three of us working simultaneously.
Tomorrow classes start!! I only have one class tomorrow (Spanish) because of Convocation at 11 (shortened periods pretty much), but I will put my normal weekly schedule here:
Monday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
Tuesday:
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
1:00-3:50 Common Experience for First Year Preceptorial (Used by the professor to do lectures, field trips, etc.)
Wednesday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
Thursday:
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
1-3:50 Bio Lab
Friday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
So now you can understand my work load. Or stalk me. Whatever floats your boat.
Anyways, sorry this is random, I am just full of energy. Tomorrow, I will blog about the first day of classes, how talking about a job goes (crossed fingers!), and more crazy things my friends and I do.
PUMPHANDLE!
...
But besides that, I'm having a great time. Part of that is because Pumphandle happened today.
Basically, Pumphandle is where all the faculty, staff, and students shake hands to welcome back returning people, and to welcome new ones. It's to create a community. It's to establish connections. It's to have a damn good time before classes start. The president starts by choosing a starting position. The next person, another faculty member, shakes her hand and stands next to her. Then, a third person shakes the president's hand, the faculty member's hand, then stands next to them. Get it? At the bottom of the blog entry there is a picture of Pumphandle last year.
After Pumphandle, my suitemates and I went to Target. So, I love my suitemates basically. Me and my friend Odessa went frolicking through Tarjay, looking for popcorn and laundry detergent. Oh the life of a college student :]
When we got back to the dorm, my suitemates Shady, Ella, and I put a fan together. Correction, we failed multiple times, until we rigged it together with a bottle opener and all three of us working simultaneously.
Tomorrow classes start!! I only have one class tomorrow (Spanish) because of Convocation at 11 (shortened periods pretty much), but I will put my normal weekly schedule here:
Monday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
Tuesday:
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
1:00-3:50 Common Experience for First Year Preceptorial (Used by the professor to do lectures, field trips, etc.)
Wednesday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
Thursday:
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
1-3:50 Bio Lab
Friday:
9:20-10:30 Biology: Evolution, Ecology & Biodiversity
10:40-11:50 Elementary Spanish
2:40-3:50 Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem (Firs-Year Preceptorial, or the required freshman class)
So now you can understand my work load. Or stalk me. Whatever floats your boat.
Anyways, sorry this is random, I am just full of energy. Tomorrow, I will blog about the first day of classes, how talking about a job goes (crossed fingers!), and more crazy things my friends and I do.
PUMPHANDLE!
 | ||||||
| Knox College. "Pumphandle 2010." Knox College. N.p., 13 Sept. 2010. Web. 7 Sept. 2011. <http://www.knox.edu/news-and-events/news-archive/ pumphandle-2010.html> |
Much Love, Celinda (don't ask why it's oriented this way, I don't know...)
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