Well.
I don't actually know how to start this blog.
See, this is my last blog.
For the past two years I have been writing college related blogs. I was fortunate in having this second blog to write after I graduated Uni. I love talking and writing and pondering. I love people, and the infinite ways they disappoint, inspire, and interest me. I love learning, and how Knowledge is Power. I love the idea that sitting here, in my room, I can be talking to people as close as down the street and as far away as Bangladesh.
However, I'm going to be a Sophomore in college now. I didn't really notice the passage of time until the other day, when I helped train the new College Corner bloggers. It suddenly hit me that they were sophomores when I graduated high school. And now they would be the senior class. They would have a senior shirt, a senior prom, a senior trip. They would have a graduation of their very own. And soon enough, the freshmen of my graduating year will be seniors, then the subbies, and then a class of students I never knew.
This brought me here, to this very bittersweet moment. I've looked back over the countless blogs I've done in the past two years. I've seen myself emerge. I've had a few moments where I've touched the lives of other people, and for that I am truly humbled. I also had quite a lot of fun along the way. Really, I had a blast!
But, like all things in life, there is an end.
I'm sitting here, crying, because I have had the privilege to make something lasting and wonderful. I'm crying because it ends. It's like when I finish a good novel. It pulls me in, makes me care about the characters, their feelings and actions, and most importantly, I care about what happens to them. And no matter how satisfying, or interesting, or promising the ending, I can't help but feel adrift and hurt. I am wrenched from the world of the book, and for a time it saddens me.
Yet, it never stops me from reaching for another book. Just like in life, even when hearts break or people die or hurt you or graduations happen or you move or you change careers, it never stops you from living LIFE. From reaching out and experiencing, growing, loving, laughing, learning, losing, hoping, dreaming, wishing, trying, living.
I know I sound melodramatic, but these two blogs, College Corner and Accepted, have been a large part of my life for the past two years. Indeed, they both document and shape how much I have changed.
I guess what scares me the most is that time never stops, and that I knew there would come a time when I would hang up my blogger cap. Who knows if I will ever stop blogging (or talking in general). I have some ideas, I have a volunteer blog that's been feeling a little neglected. But, I am officially done with Uni college blogging.
No, there will be no third installment, I promise. I will slip quietly (or, less than loudly) into my Sophomore year of college. I will not blog about it. I will status update on Facebook OF COURSE, but no blogging. I will begin to think of this blog as a past part of my life. I will begin to think of Uni as what it truly is, my alma mater. I will say goodbye to this, and my previous blog, even though it is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. Because, these blogs are very much a part of me, and losing a bit of self is always heartbreaking.
I've been so lucky, to be given a voice, by Lisa, by Uni. I had such joy, and pain, but always pride in being able to help. I wish all Uni kids, now and 20 years from now, HAPPINESS. Because that sometimes can be elusive for Uni kids. Find happiness. Enjoy your five years. And best of luck afterwards, when you find yourself in the world post-Uni.
Time, and myself, march on.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart,
*crying a bit*
Much Love,
Celinda
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Thursday, August 9, 2012
College Bucket List
Alrighty, so that was a thoroughly depressing blog I wrote earlier this week! I don't want you to think that I had an awful time at college. In fact, I had a lot of great times too, and I can't wait to continue my adventures this fall. In that vein, I wanted to present you a Freshman Bucket List, or at least a college one if you want to space out the awesome. You don't have to agree with all of them, just the SPIRIT of them. Also, don't feel confined to my list. Venture off the beaten Celinda track.
Read. Perform. Enjoy.
1) Talk Up a Random Stranger
You will meet a lot of people, so this doesn't seem like much of a challenge. But I mean for this to be AFTER orientation. I mean for you to plop down next to someone you've never met, and pursue a conversation. You might be surprised how interesting it can be.
2) Dance in the Rain
If you haven't already done this in life, then shame on you. But, here is your chance to redeem yourself! One day, when it is gloomy and rainy, go dance. There is something thrilling about throwing your arms up and letting the rain fall as you spin around.
3) Take a Class Completely Outside Your Major and Graduation Requirements
You should take a class for the hell of it. Take a class because it sounds FUN (what a concept for Uni kids) or nerve-wracking, or new. There's a completely different feel to a class when it doesn't feel required or necessary.
4) Eat Ice Cream for Dinner
No one is around to say no, so you can go out and party and drink and stay out all night. I'm not saying anything on all of that. But, you should also eat a big bowl of ice cream, because you can and no one is going to tell you no, it's not nutritious.
5) Take a Chance on Something
Think about something you wouldn't do, or say, because of the risks. Ignore the risks and do it anyway.
6) Watch the Sunrise from the Most Important Place on Campus
Whether it's the Alma Mater or Old Main, watch the sunrise. I hate mornings, but there is something almost peaceful and hopeful about watching the dawn break, and a new day is open to a world of possibilities.
7) Go All Out
Whether it's a volunteering gig, a concert, a game, or a regular day, party like it's 1999. Wear all the colors, talk loud, think loud. Cheer. Get too excited about it.
8) Go Out at Least Once
You can decide what happens on that night to remember (as long as it isn't the real world Hangover), but have at it. College is about the memories.
9) Learn to Say No
If you're like me, you might agree to do too many things, or might cave in to someone who hasn't been very kind. Stand up and say no. This is your life, and your life solely as an individual (the person you're going to be for the rest of your life) is being formed right now. So, be strong.
10) Accept Your Mistakes
They happen dearest Uni kids. And they are going to happen a whole lot in college. Big ones, little ones, personal ones, professional ones. If you hurt someone or upset something, apologize or fix it. If not, learn from it but don't sweat it. I can promise you only one thing: mistakes never cease, so don't let them control you.
11) Fall In Love
Fall in love, whether it is with an idea, a person, a food, a friendship. Let go and plunge in love. It might hurt you, but it is better to have felt something, to dream of something, than to go through life knowing you never took the chance.
12) Consider a Club You Wouldn't Have
You might feel like you have yourself pretty figured out. Or you might not, and I am making gross assumptions about your character. Either way, I implore you to really look into the clubs your school offers. You might find one of them to be exactly what you're looking for.
13) Explore Your College Town
Leave campus. Do it. DO IT. Whether you live in a one horse town or a sprawling metropolis, go out and explore the town your college is situated in. Find little cafes or family owned stores. Find the charm, outside of your school. Make friends, develop "the usuals", and escape the bubble, even for a bit.
But remember the most important thing. It's been said that life is not about finding yourself. The brochures lie, you aren't going to college to find yourself. If you were lost, we'd be in a metaphysical nightmare. No, you are creating yourself. Create someone who is daring, and smart, and funny, and interesting, and open, and generous, and most of all, kind. Be the kind of person you would want to be friends with. Be the person you could trust with your most guarded secrets. Be the person that either has the answer, or could help look for it. Be the person who is willing to try new things and to take risks. Most of all, be the person who anyone can depend upon, when times get rough.
Good luck, my adventurers :D
Much Love,
Celinda
Read. Perform. Enjoy.
1) Talk Up a Random Stranger
You will meet a lot of people, so this doesn't seem like much of a challenge. But I mean for this to be AFTER orientation. I mean for you to plop down next to someone you've never met, and pursue a conversation. You might be surprised how interesting it can be.
2) Dance in the Rain
If you haven't already done this in life, then shame on you. But, here is your chance to redeem yourself! One day, when it is gloomy and rainy, go dance. There is something thrilling about throwing your arms up and letting the rain fall as you spin around.
3) Take a Class Completely Outside Your Major and Graduation Requirements
You should take a class for the hell of it. Take a class because it sounds FUN (what a concept for Uni kids) or nerve-wracking, or new. There's a completely different feel to a class when it doesn't feel required or necessary.
4) Eat Ice Cream for Dinner
No one is around to say no, so you can go out and party and drink and stay out all night. I'm not saying anything on all of that. But, you should also eat a big bowl of ice cream, because you can and no one is going to tell you no, it's not nutritious.
5) Take a Chance on Something
Think about something you wouldn't do, or say, because of the risks. Ignore the risks and do it anyway.
6) Watch the Sunrise from the Most Important Place on Campus
Whether it's the Alma Mater or Old Main, watch the sunrise. I hate mornings, but there is something almost peaceful and hopeful about watching the dawn break, and a new day is open to a world of possibilities.
7) Go All Out
Whether it's a volunteering gig, a concert, a game, or a regular day, party like it's 1999. Wear all the colors, talk loud, think loud. Cheer. Get too excited about it.
8) Go Out at Least Once
You can decide what happens on that night to remember (as long as it isn't the real world Hangover), but have at it. College is about the memories.
9) Learn to Say No
If you're like me, you might agree to do too many things, or might cave in to someone who hasn't been very kind. Stand up and say no. This is your life, and your life solely as an individual (the person you're going to be for the rest of your life) is being formed right now. So, be strong.
10) Accept Your Mistakes
They happen dearest Uni kids. And they are going to happen a whole lot in college. Big ones, little ones, personal ones, professional ones. If you hurt someone or upset something, apologize or fix it. If not, learn from it but don't sweat it. I can promise you only one thing: mistakes never cease, so don't let them control you.
11) Fall In Love
Fall in love, whether it is with an idea, a person, a food, a friendship. Let go and plunge in love. It might hurt you, but it is better to have felt something, to dream of something, than to go through life knowing you never took the chance.
12) Consider a Club You Wouldn't Have
You might feel like you have yourself pretty figured out. Or you might not, and I am making gross assumptions about your character. Either way, I implore you to really look into the clubs your school offers. You might find one of them to be exactly what you're looking for.
13) Explore Your College Town
Leave campus. Do it. DO IT. Whether you live in a one horse town or a sprawling metropolis, go out and explore the town your college is situated in. Find little cafes or family owned stores. Find the charm, outside of your school. Make friends, develop "the usuals", and escape the bubble, even for a bit.
But remember the most important thing. It's been said that life is not about finding yourself. The brochures lie, you aren't going to college to find yourself. If you were lost, we'd be in a metaphysical nightmare. No, you are creating yourself. Create someone who is daring, and smart, and funny, and interesting, and open, and generous, and most of all, kind. Be the kind of person you would want to be friends with. Be the person you could trust with your most guarded secrets. Be the person that either has the answer, or could help look for it. Be the person who is willing to try new things and to take risks. Most of all, be the person who anyone can depend upon, when times get rough.
Good luck, my adventurers :D
Much Love,
Celinda
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Burnout
There are two months in our calendar that starts with an A. I stopped writing in the first one, and now the second A month begins. I'm not letting you guys go off to college until I finish what I started. There are so many reasons I didn't work on my blog for the rest of the school year. The truth of the matter is, I burned out.
Burning out is an interesting phenomenon, because you don't realize you're spiraling down until you're pretty sunk. But when it happens, it can be exhausting, heart wrenching, and eye-opening. So, how did I burn out? And what does my story have to do with you? Well....
It begins with not being able to say no. Whether I actually wanted to do something or not doing my first year in college, I had a hard time saying no. Suddenly, my responsibilities began piling up. I didn't say no because I don't like disappointing people, and I have an aim-to-please attitude. Oftentimes, that means I get taken advantage of.
I went to college, and I suddenly found I had so much time, and an identity to define. The old adage is that actions speak louder than words, and I wanted my actions to reflect a caring, dedicated, involved individual. Thus, to show people (and myself) the college Celinda, I began collecting extracurriculars. Yes, collecting, because at this point that's exactly what I'm doing.
So, speed up to Spring semester, and suddenly I was over-involved. I worked ten hours a week, volunteered at the Boys and Girls' Club, volunteered for Blessings in a Backpack, was an active member of Alpha Phi Omega (which included 12 service hours and 8 membership hours to take care of each term, as well as weekly chapter meetings), became the secretary of Alpha Phi Omega (an executive position), was on the Blood Drive committee for APO, was on the Formal committee for APO, was taking a photography class (which included developing the negatives and the prints, hours of work per assignment), was taking my third straight semester of Spanish, was taking a US History class, lunch hosting prospective students, traveling for both the admissions office and APO, coming home, going to my grandparents, performing in a dance performance, and in between all of that I ate, slept, and attempted making friends.
Whew. It exhausted me just to type that.
So, what did that leave me? A mess. There was one week I didn't step into the cafeteria for lunch. I would do grab and go lunch so that I could get homework done, or go deal with a secretary responsibility, or table for APO or Blessings. I remember one particular Monday where I was carrying four bags, each one for a different responsibility. I sent, received, or responded to at least ten important emails each day. I agonized over maintaining my good grades. I even began waking up early on Saturdays.
SATURDAYS MIND YOU. When I don't believe life and joy begins until at LEAST ten in the morning. And that's only really "doing okay" or "fine" rather than euphoria. Euphoria kicks in around 2 in the afternoon.
Anyways. The stress and exhaustion began building up. I began getting more frequent headaches. One day it was so bad, I had to lie on the bathroom floor in the dark. I called my grandma, crying about the pain. When I described my symptoms, she got quiet for a minute, and then told me I should go see a doctor the next day. To her, it sounded like migraines.
I hung up the phone, took ibuprofen, and went to a three hour long meeting. That was the day I knew I wasn't taking good care of myself.
The next day, I went to the doctor's office, with my grab and go lunch in hand (because of course, I wasn't free any time else). The doctor confirmed my grandma's fears and gave me a prescription for migraines. It occurred to me, leaving the office, that I had induced migraines living like I did. But, even without migraines, I realized that I didn't sleep much, I never stopped to eat, days were jam packed, and I wasn't finding much enjoyment in ANYTHING I was doing.
See, that's the problem with overwhelming yourself, then attempting to do every single thing perfectly. It becomes about not letting yourself, or anyone down. I have a crippling fear of that, which existed at Uni but exploded in college (or maybe, I found myself surrounded by non-perfectionists for the first time in five years, and it illuminated my own problems). Nevertheless, the perfectionism stops you from enjoying what you are doing, learning, accomplishing. It stops you from enjoying the people who are along for the ride. It stops you from enjoying all your virtures and forces your flaws to the surface. It's scary.
The night before my dress rehearsal for dance, I went to bed at 11. The next day, a Wednesday, I woke up at 4. I was in the darkroom to work on pictures by 5, at the grab and go for breakfast by 7:30, and at work by 8:30. I would end up going to two classes, volunteering, and a dress rehearsal that day. I remember that by lunch time, I was wearing down (because, by lunch time, I had been awake for seven hours). I was so ready to go home at this point. Home was a week away. I think that was one of the longest weeks of my life.
When I finally, finally, finally got home, I didn't even take anything out of the car. I kissed my mom on the cheek, climbed into bed, and slept for 14 hours. When I surfaced, I watched the entire first season of Dawson's Creek, and then went back to sleep.
I thought I had finally escaped my first year in college, and I succeeded in my last term. All those responsibilities? I met them. I did it. But the fallout came, coming down upon me like a ton of bricks. My self-esteem spiraled. I made a list of all the activities I was going to do in the fall (SURPRISE, the list is longer). I made a list of all the activities I wanted to do. That list was two, maybe three things tops. I imagined all the things I really wanted to do, and they varied widely from a trip to Ireland to watching the night sky (and I mean going to a place with barely any lights, so I can see the milky way swirl). But none of them were about APO, or working, or learning Spanish, or taking classes. I was so very tired, right down to my soul.
Good news, I'm starting to turn a corner. I'm still worried, but I think I'm excited for school this fall. However, I can still remember walking down a sidewalk at school, when the feeling of running away shot through me. It flowed through me, this streak of rebellion, this careless feeling that I actually had to clamp down on. You all know me. Running away from college and jumping on a train to God knows where isn't my usual style. Which scared me more that I had that feeling, and that it churned through me.
The important thing to remember is that all of life is a series of compromises and exchanges. If you are mean to everyone, well, you can have your power, but in exchange people aren't going to want to be around you. Someday you will find yourself alone. If you smile at people, well, people are going to smile back. So, you can do everything, and do it well. But, you exchange your health and well-being. You risk messing with your self-esteem, because when things don't go perfectly (and they don't, trust me), it suddenly means you're stupid or a failure. You get colds, migraines, fevers, flus. You get dark circles under your eyes. You stop caring about the things YOU chose to be involved in. And it hurts, to walk through life like an efficient zombie. You get things done, but at what cost?
Your first year is going to be what you make it. I hope you have a good experience. I did. I love Knox, I love the people, I love what I am learning, and I pretty sure I like what I'm involved in. But, even a good experience didn't erase my final term. I challenge you to know your limits. You're human, not a robot. Know that while being involved and connected is great, you shouldn't go HARD on every single thing ever. Taking care of yourself is super important, especially in this new and somewhat terrifying experience of your first year at college. Don't be afraid to say NO. Don't be afraid to say you're stressed out and you need help. Don't be afraid to take a step back and take care of yourself before you take care of anyone else.
More than anything, remember that you are great. Unique. Smart. Helpful. It sounds so basic, but I'm just starting to convince myself of those things again.
Much Love,
Celinda
Burning out is an interesting phenomenon, because you don't realize you're spiraling down until you're pretty sunk. But when it happens, it can be exhausting, heart wrenching, and eye-opening. So, how did I burn out? And what does my story have to do with you? Well....
It begins with not being able to say no. Whether I actually wanted to do something or not doing my first year in college, I had a hard time saying no. Suddenly, my responsibilities began piling up. I didn't say no because I don't like disappointing people, and I have an aim-to-please attitude. Oftentimes, that means I get taken advantage of.
I went to college, and I suddenly found I had so much time, and an identity to define. The old adage is that actions speak louder than words, and I wanted my actions to reflect a caring, dedicated, involved individual. Thus, to show people (and myself) the college Celinda, I began collecting extracurriculars. Yes, collecting, because at this point that's exactly what I'm doing.
So, speed up to Spring semester, and suddenly I was over-involved. I worked ten hours a week, volunteered at the Boys and Girls' Club, volunteered for Blessings in a Backpack, was an active member of Alpha Phi Omega (which included 12 service hours and 8 membership hours to take care of each term, as well as weekly chapter meetings), became the secretary of Alpha Phi Omega (an executive position), was on the Blood Drive committee for APO, was on the Formal committee for APO, was taking a photography class (which included developing the negatives and the prints, hours of work per assignment), was taking my third straight semester of Spanish, was taking a US History class, lunch hosting prospective students, traveling for both the admissions office and APO, coming home, going to my grandparents, performing in a dance performance, and in between all of that I ate, slept, and attempted making friends.
Whew. It exhausted me just to type that.
So, what did that leave me? A mess. There was one week I didn't step into the cafeteria for lunch. I would do grab and go lunch so that I could get homework done, or go deal with a secretary responsibility, or table for APO or Blessings. I remember one particular Monday where I was carrying four bags, each one for a different responsibility. I sent, received, or responded to at least ten important emails each day. I agonized over maintaining my good grades. I even began waking up early on Saturdays.
SATURDAYS MIND YOU. When I don't believe life and joy begins until at LEAST ten in the morning. And that's only really "doing okay" or "fine" rather than euphoria. Euphoria kicks in around 2 in the afternoon.
Anyways. The stress and exhaustion began building up. I began getting more frequent headaches. One day it was so bad, I had to lie on the bathroom floor in the dark. I called my grandma, crying about the pain. When I described my symptoms, she got quiet for a minute, and then told me I should go see a doctor the next day. To her, it sounded like migraines.
I hung up the phone, took ibuprofen, and went to a three hour long meeting. That was the day I knew I wasn't taking good care of myself.
The next day, I went to the doctor's office, with my grab and go lunch in hand (because of course, I wasn't free any time else). The doctor confirmed my grandma's fears and gave me a prescription for migraines. It occurred to me, leaving the office, that I had induced migraines living like I did. But, even without migraines, I realized that I didn't sleep much, I never stopped to eat, days were jam packed, and I wasn't finding much enjoyment in ANYTHING I was doing.
See, that's the problem with overwhelming yourself, then attempting to do every single thing perfectly. It becomes about not letting yourself, or anyone down. I have a crippling fear of that, which existed at Uni but exploded in college (or maybe, I found myself surrounded by non-perfectionists for the first time in five years, and it illuminated my own problems). Nevertheless, the perfectionism stops you from enjoying what you are doing, learning, accomplishing. It stops you from enjoying the people who are along for the ride. It stops you from enjoying all your virtures and forces your flaws to the surface. It's scary.
The night before my dress rehearsal for dance, I went to bed at 11. The next day, a Wednesday, I woke up at 4. I was in the darkroom to work on pictures by 5, at the grab and go for breakfast by 7:30, and at work by 8:30. I would end up going to two classes, volunteering, and a dress rehearsal that day. I remember that by lunch time, I was wearing down (because, by lunch time, I had been awake for seven hours). I was so ready to go home at this point. Home was a week away. I think that was one of the longest weeks of my life.
When I finally, finally, finally got home, I didn't even take anything out of the car. I kissed my mom on the cheek, climbed into bed, and slept for 14 hours. When I surfaced, I watched the entire first season of Dawson's Creek, and then went back to sleep.
I thought I had finally escaped my first year in college, and I succeeded in my last term. All those responsibilities? I met them. I did it. But the fallout came, coming down upon me like a ton of bricks. My self-esteem spiraled. I made a list of all the activities I was going to do in the fall (SURPRISE, the list is longer). I made a list of all the activities I wanted to do. That list was two, maybe three things tops. I imagined all the things I really wanted to do, and they varied widely from a trip to Ireland to watching the night sky (and I mean going to a place with barely any lights, so I can see the milky way swirl). But none of them were about APO, or working, or learning Spanish, or taking classes. I was so very tired, right down to my soul.
Good news, I'm starting to turn a corner. I'm still worried, but I think I'm excited for school this fall. However, I can still remember walking down a sidewalk at school, when the feeling of running away shot through me. It flowed through me, this streak of rebellion, this careless feeling that I actually had to clamp down on. You all know me. Running away from college and jumping on a train to God knows where isn't my usual style. Which scared me more that I had that feeling, and that it churned through me.
The important thing to remember is that all of life is a series of compromises and exchanges. If you are mean to everyone, well, you can have your power, but in exchange people aren't going to want to be around you. Someday you will find yourself alone. If you smile at people, well, people are going to smile back. So, you can do everything, and do it well. But, you exchange your health and well-being. You risk messing with your self-esteem, because when things don't go perfectly (and they don't, trust me), it suddenly means you're stupid or a failure. You get colds, migraines, fevers, flus. You get dark circles under your eyes. You stop caring about the things YOU chose to be involved in. And it hurts, to walk through life like an efficient zombie. You get things done, but at what cost?
Your first year is going to be what you make it. I hope you have a good experience. I did. I love Knox, I love the people, I love what I am learning, and I pretty sure I like what I'm involved in. But, even a good experience didn't erase my final term. I challenge you to know your limits. You're human, not a robot. Know that while being involved and connected is great, you shouldn't go HARD on every single thing ever. Taking care of yourself is super important, especially in this new and somewhat terrifying experience of your first year at college. Don't be afraid to say NO. Don't be afraid to say you're stressed out and you need help. Don't be afraid to take a step back and take care of yourself before you take care of anyone else.
More than anything, remember that you are great. Unique. Smart. Helpful. It sounds so basic, but I'm just starting to convince myself of those things again.
Much Love,
Celinda
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The Unspeakables: Part I
When Uni kids apply and get into college, the excitement is at an all time high. You're leaving Uni! You're buying comforters and fridges! You are moving in! You get to be an adult!
With all this excitement, it's hard to talk about the unspeakables, the bad things that can happen in college. I am not making this blog to deflate your growing excitement. By all means! Throw confetti in the air because WOAH guys, you're all going to a college, gap year, or other option that going to change you in beautiful and amazing ways! No, I am writing this blog because it's important to be prepared for the darker parts of college. I want you all to have the tools to be prepared, because sometimes being in college can be overwhelming, heartbreaking, emotionally draining, and in rare cases, dangerous. So, bear with me and here we go!
1) Depression and Mental Illnesses
It's something that is not talked about enough. Depression and other mental illnesses, most notably anxiety issues, are on the rise for college students. There are a number of reasons for this, which NPR I think gives a nice overview of here: http://www.npr.org/2011/01/17/132934543/depression-on-the-rise-in-college-students. Basically though, the stresses of a new town, new people, new classes, new levels of responsibility, new levels of caring for oneself, new pressures, and new expectations often overwhelm students. If a student was already at risk for depression and anxiety, college can exacerbate the situation. Unfortunately, mental health facilities and resources can be understaffed and overworked.
If you ever feel worried that sad, hopeless, or lethargic feelings are persistent, whether for yourself or for others, please check out this website: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-and-college-students/introduction.shtml. It gives information about what depression is, symptoms, and resources for treating it. Never feel like you are alone though. It can be hard, especially the first year, to feel like you can trust or know anyone enough to open up. But I can guarantee that you are LOVED and that people would be grieved to lose you, lest you do something to yourself. Your RA or an adviser would be the best person to talk to first. Asking for help if a sign of strength, not weakness. I also highly recommend To Write Love On Her Arm, an amazing support group for depressed and suicidal people, as well as concerned and supportive people http://www.twloha.com/
2) Stress, or Burnout
Even if you are not depressed or suffering from anxiety, college is so STRESSFUL and OVERWHELMING sometimes. This week, I had to coach myself to get out of bed. Suddenly, all the clubs and classes that I am in don't seem to matter all that much. It's really bad because I am involved with a lot of volunteering things, which should inspire and strengthen you while you make a difference. Right now, they just seem to be unfortunate annoyances. I keep wishing it was Saturday night, because I will get to just sleep or read. When you feel stressed or overwhelmed, there are many different ways to deal with it. You can cut one thing out of your life, so you have more time for sleep and chilling out. You can exercise or take a walk. You can eat something wholesome and happy, like fruit. Eat some chocolate (but not too much, cause sweets can just make you feel worse). You can just say "Screw it!" and go to bed earlier. Listen to music, write a story, read a book, talk it out.
Sometimes, there isn't time to give yourself a little R&R. I understand. This week, I just wanted to curl into my bed and never leave. On Monday, when I was in Champaign, I looked at my friends with a heartbroken face, silently pleading for them not to make me go back to Knox. When faced with things that need to get done but no strength to move on, I challenge you to reach DEEP inside yourself. You can do it. You can do it. YOU CAN DO IT. Inside all of us, I think there is an emergency storage of energy and passion that helps us pull through somehow. We use it during finals. Soldiers use it in the heat of the battle. There is something in us, and I am not being religious. Spiritual maybe, but really, think about it. Think about some of the truly amazing things you pulled yourself through. So, when you're stressed and overwhelmed, know that you are not the only one who feels that way, and pull through. Because eventually, it ends, even if only for a short while.
3) Dramas
For a person that says she loves people, I feel like I say "I hate people!" quite a lot lol. It happens though. People are not completely compatible, especially the first year in college when you're still trying to understand people. So, what to do when suddenly it seems like all your friends are on crazy pills, or your best guy...dude (what do you call each other??) steals your crush, or you find yourself in a he said/she said crisis??
Well, you pause. That's what you do first. You pause. Because gossip and drama are transmitted without thought or care. It's the out of control snowball careening down the hill. It can cause a big ole mess at the bottom of said hill, or when the crap hits the fan. So, first things first? PAUSE. STOP. THINK.
How true is it? How would they feel if this continues? Maybe you should talk to them instead of the world? How do you talk to them? How does it all make you feel?
Basically, think about how if you feed the drama, it will affect you and everyone around you. So pause. Then, talk to them. If you aren't ready for that, call a parent or friend that DOES NOT GO TO YOUR SCHOOL. Think about good old Uni and the speed of drama. Add really adult situations, and it can get sticky, headachy, and crazy real fast. Know that drama and gossip will happen in your four years at college (and for the rest of your life, sorry kiddo). But, all dramas end, and often they will seem ridiculous later. Deep breaths :]
4) Roommates
So, how do you deal with roommates? This is different than regular drama because you live with this person. I am not going to give you some sugarcoated picture of college: people will sometimes have to change roommates. Blowups happen. Lines are crossed. People are insulted and hurt. The best way to deal with it is to find within yourself a level of grace and maturity. FOR REALZ. Be mature. Don't badmouth or propagate dramas. What you should do is talk to your RA, because they are your first line of defense. If the problem grows, go to the housing department. Unfortunately, you might have to change roommates. Sometimes, relationships are irreparable.
I had a great roommate. Unfortunately, she had to leave school. It was heartbreaking, and even though I have a double single now, I still miss having that other person's presence. Sometimes, a roommate has to leave. I know three people who have had to leave Knox, at least for the rest of the academic year. It's hard. But, we are lucky to be in the digital age! There are so many ways to keep in contact: Facebook, Twitter, letters, emails, packages, etc. It might seem like you are far apart, but you can decide how far the distance truly is.
Sorry this is so long. And it's only part one? I might not do part two right away. If you have any questions about the topics addressed above, here are some more internet resources.
http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management-topic-overview
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_TCS.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/burnout_signs_symptoms.htm
http://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/college-students
http://collegecandy.com/2011/03/19/5-common-roommate-problems-and-how-to-deal/
http://www.scholarships.com/resources/campus-life/roommates-and-communal-living/common-roommate-problems/
http://collegelife.about.com/od/livingoncampus/a/roommateproblem.htm
http://www.seventeen.com/college/freshman-15/avoiding-drama
If you want some more personal thoughts on the matters above, don't hesitate to contact me!
Muchos Love,
Celinda
With all this excitement, it's hard to talk about the unspeakables, the bad things that can happen in college. I am not making this blog to deflate your growing excitement. By all means! Throw confetti in the air because WOAH guys, you're all going to a college, gap year, or other option that going to change you in beautiful and amazing ways! No, I am writing this blog because it's important to be prepared for the darker parts of college. I want you all to have the tools to be prepared, because sometimes being in college can be overwhelming, heartbreaking, emotionally draining, and in rare cases, dangerous. So, bear with me and here we go!
1) Depression and Mental Illnesses
It's something that is not talked about enough. Depression and other mental illnesses, most notably anxiety issues, are on the rise for college students. There are a number of reasons for this, which NPR I think gives a nice overview of here: http://www.npr.org/2011/01/17/132934543/depression-on-the-rise-in-college-students. Basically though, the stresses of a new town, new people, new classes, new levels of responsibility, new levels of caring for oneself, new pressures, and new expectations often overwhelm students. If a student was already at risk for depression and anxiety, college can exacerbate the situation. Unfortunately, mental health facilities and resources can be understaffed and overworked.
If you ever feel worried that sad, hopeless, or lethargic feelings are persistent, whether for yourself or for others, please check out this website: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-and-college-students/introduction.shtml. It gives information about what depression is, symptoms, and resources for treating it. Never feel like you are alone though. It can be hard, especially the first year, to feel like you can trust or know anyone enough to open up. But I can guarantee that you are LOVED and that people would be grieved to lose you, lest you do something to yourself. Your RA or an adviser would be the best person to talk to first. Asking for help if a sign of strength, not weakness. I also highly recommend To Write Love On Her Arm, an amazing support group for depressed and suicidal people, as well as concerned and supportive people http://www.twloha.com/
2) Stress, or Burnout
Even if you are not depressed or suffering from anxiety, college is so STRESSFUL and OVERWHELMING sometimes. This week, I had to coach myself to get out of bed. Suddenly, all the clubs and classes that I am in don't seem to matter all that much. It's really bad because I am involved with a lot of volunteering things, which should inspire and strengthen you while you make a difference. Right now, they just seem to be unfortunate annoyances. I keep wishing it was Saturday night, because I will get to just sleep or read. When you feel stressed or overwhelmed, there are many different ways to deal with it. You can cut one thing out of your life, so you have more time for sleep and chilling out. You can exercise or take a walk. You can eat something wholesome and happy, like fruit. Eat some chocolate (but not too much, cause sweets can just make you feel worse). You can just say "Screw it!" and go to bed earlier. Listen to music, write a story, read a book, talk it out.
Sometimes, there isn't time to give yourself a little R&R. I understand. This week, I just wanted to curl into my bed and never leave. On Monday, when I was in Champaign, I looked at my friends with a heartbroken face, silently pleading for them not to make me go back to Knox. When faced with things that need to get done but no strength to move on, I challenge you to reach DEEP inside yourself. You can do it. You can do it. YOU CAN DO IT. Inside all of us, I think there is an emergency storage of energy and passion that helps us pull through somehow. We use it during finals. Soldiers use it in the heat of the battle. There is something in us, and I am not being religious. Spiritual maybe, but really, think about it. Think about some of the truly amazing things you pulled yourself through. So, when you're stressed and overwhelmed, know that you are not the only one who feels that way, and pull through. Because eventually, it ends, even if only for a short while.
3) Dramas
For a person that says she loves people, I feel like I say "I hate people!" quite a lot lol. It happens though. People are not completely compatible, especially the first year in college when you're still trying to understand people. So, what to do when suddenly it seems like all your friends are on crazy pills, or your best guy...dude (what do you call each other??) steals your crush, or you find yourself in a he said/she said crisis??
Well, you pause. That's what you do first. You pause. Because gossip and drama are transmitted without thought or care. It's the out of control snowball careening down the hill. It can cause a big ole mess at the bottom of said hill, or when the crap hits the fan. So, first things first? PAUSE. STOP. THINK.
How true is it? How would they feel if this continues? Maybe you should talk to them instead of the world? How do you talk to them? How does it all make you feel?
Basically, think about how if you feed the drama, it will affect you and everyone around you. So pause. Then, talk to them. If you aren't ready for that, call a parent or friend that DOES NOT GO TO YOUR SCHOOL. Think about good old Uni and the speed of drama. Add really adult situations, and it can get sticky, headachy, and crazy real fast. Know that drama and gossip will happen in your four years at college (and for the rest of your life, sorry kiddo). But, all dramas end, and often they will seem ridiculous later. Deep breaths :]
4) Roommates
So, how do you deal with roommates? This is different than regular drama because you live with this person. I am not going to give you some sugarcoated picture of college: people will sometimes have to change roommates. Blowups happen. Lines are crossed. People are insulted and hurt. The best way to deal with it is to find within yourself a level of grace and maturity. FOR REALZ. Be mature. Don't badmouth or propagate dramas. What you should do is talk to your RA, because they are your first line of defense. If the problem grows, go to the housing department. Unfortunately, you might have to change roommates. Sometimes, relationships are irreparable.
I had a great roommate. Unfortunately, she had to leave school. It was heartbreaking, and even though I have a double single now, I still miss having that other person's presence. Sometimes, a roommate has to leave. I know three people who have had to leave Knox, at least for the rest of the academic year. It's hard. But, we are lucky to be in the digital age! There are so many ways to keep in contact: Facebook, Twitter, letters, emails, packages, etc. It might seem like you are far apart, but you can decide how far the distance truly is.
Sorry this is so long. And it's only part one? I might not do part two right away. If you have any questions about the topics addressed above, here are some more internet resources.
http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management-topic-overview
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_TCS.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/burnout_signs_symptoms.htm
http://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/college-students
http://collegecandy.com/2011/03/19/5-common-roommate-problems-and-how-to-deal/
http://www.scholarships.com/resources/campus-life/roommates-and-communal-living/common-roommate-problems/
http://collegelife.about.com/od/livingoncampus/a/roommateproblem.htm
http://www.seventeen.com/college/freshman-15/avoiding-drama
If you want some more personal thoughts on the matters above, don't hesitate to contact me!
Muchos Love,
Celinda
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Changing of the Majors
AH, sorry guys! I haven't blogged in over a month. But, I will make up for it by blogging as often as I can, on more generic topics than myself (still using myself as a reference point though, cause gotta say, I know myself the best out of every person ever).
Once upon a time...no, that's not quite right.
Now, this is a story all about how
My life got flipped, turned upside-down
And I like to take a minute,
just sit right there
I'll tell you how I dropped a major known as Education...
I have no swag AT ALL.
Anyways, I remember way back at graduation, I walked proudly across the stage as Lisa told the crowd that I was going to Knox College to study Education. I imagined it perfectly. Getting my Bachelors from Knox, as a History and Education double major. Getting a job. INSPIRING AMERICA'S CHILDREN. Yeah yeah. You know what I didn't account for? Life.
Yep, that famous quote about life happening while you're making other plans? Very true. I've learned that having a plan rarely means anything in the grand scheme of things. Not to say going into anything blindly is a good policy (especially emergencies. ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN). What I mean is, my experiences during these last two terms have changed me in ways that my plan didn't account for.
Unlike some people, it wasn't that I came to abhor the major I was considering. In fact, some days my education class last term was my best class. I still have the greatest respect for teachers. Indeed, there are five groups of people I have utmost respect for: doctors, soldiers, firefighters, police officers, and teachers. Heck, I might still end up being a teacher five or ten years from now, cause I really like helping and teaching and learning and kids. But I am not going to major in it.
When I realized I didn't want to major in Education, I felt mixed. On one hand, I felt relief. The education program is very rigid, because they need to uphold Illinois state teaching regulations. I felt like at seventeen, I couldn't actually say I wanted for sure to be a teacher. I was overwhelmed by the tests I needed to take. Some might say I chickened out of hard work. I would tell them to see all the clubs I'm in, and then we can talk. But, really, I was a little freaked out. So, I had a compromise: Minor!
At Knox, everyone needs to have a major and a minor, two majors, or a major and two minors. So, instead of double majoring, I would just minor in education. The minor is called Educational Policy. Well, as someone who hates politics, you could say I was uneasy with this compromise. I still felt adamant though. I TOLD people I was majoring in Education. I didn't want to seem flaky. I was also scared to admit that I didn't have a plan. I mean, in like five years I have to actually sustain myself. I will have to file taxes as an independent. God, I will have KIDS someday. I have to have a PLAN RIGHT?
Wrong.
I am 92% sure I will not be majoring OR minoring in Education. Who knows, maybe grad school? It's very scary to admit that me, former PCC and blogger about college, hasn't quite figured out the plan yet. But that's okay. Every day I go to my history class, I become more and more sure that this is something I would love to major in. I have also considered staying in Spanish, and maybe minoring or even MAJORING in it. Yeah, the girl who can't physically roll her r's. Brilliant plan.
At the end of the day though, I am seventeen. I have a pretty good sense about what I love. I love people. I love trying to understand why people do the things they do, what their stories are, how they express themselves, and what they can become. I love kids especially, because the world is vast and wonderful to them. I love dinoflagellates and punnett squares. I love learning Spanish. I love astronomy. I love the clubs I am in, because I feel that HERE and NOW I am on the brink of tapping into the richness of my life. Guys, my life can become something beautiful and meaningful. I can make a difference. I am here, I am now. What I do not know, regardless of what people say, is where my life is going.
So, I am telling you all that changing your mind about what you want to study and about where you want to study is perfectly legitimate. Some people have known their entire lives what they want to be, and they go and do it, and it's wonderful. But don't worry if you're undecided, if you change your major. Sometimes we discover what we thought we loved doesn't capture our hearts, and sometimes we discover things we love that we never considered before. I took Spanish for my language requirement, only to find that I am actually learning the language, and that with time, patience, practice, and an uphill battle, I could become FLUENT. SO COOL.
Know that "the plan" is more like those first few directions on google maps that get you out of your neighborhood. It seems like such a good plan because it's what you know and what you're used to. College is like the REST of the trip. You never what detours come up :]
I'm IN Greek life and NOT in Education? College is weird guys.
Muchos love,
Celinda
Once upon a time...no, that's not quite right.
Now, this is a story all about how
My life got flipped, turned upside-down
And I like to take a minute,
just sit right there
I'll tell you how I dropped a major known as Education...
I have no swag AT ALL.
Anyways, I remember way back at graduation, I walked proudly across the stage as Lisa told the crowd that I was going to Knox College to study Education. I imagined it perfectly. Getting my Bachelors from Knox, as a History and Education double major. Getting a job. INSPIRING AMERICA'S CHILDREN. Yeah yeah. You know what I didn't account for? Life.
Yep, that famous quote about life happening while you're making other plans? Very true. I've learned that having a plan rarely means anything in the grand scheme of things. Not to say going into anything blindly is a good policy (especially emergencies. ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN). What I mean is, my experiences during these last two terms have changed me in ways that my plan didn't account for.
Unlike some people, it wasn't that I came to abhor the major I was considering. In fact, some days my education class last term was my best class. I still have the greatest respect for teachers. Indeed, there are five groups of people I have utmost respect for: doctors, soldiers, firefighters, police officers, and teachers. Heck, I might still end up being a teacher five or ten years from now, cause I really like helping and teaching and learning and kids. But I am not going to major in it.
When I realized I didn't want to major in Education, I felt mixed. On one hand, I felt relief. The education program is very rigid, because they need to uphold Illinois state teaching regulations. I felt like at seventeen, I couldn't actually say I wanted for sure to be a teacher. I was overwhelmed by the tests I needed to take. Some might say I chickened out of hard work. I would tell them to see all the clubs I'm in, and then we can talk. But, really, I was a little freaked out. So, I had a compromise: Minor!
At Knox, everyone needs to have a major and a minor, two majors, or a major and two minors. So, instead of double majoring, I would just minor in education. The minor is called Educational Policy. Well, as someone who hates politics, you could say I was uneasy with this compromise. I still felt adamant though. I TOLD people I was majoring in Education. I didn't want to seem flaky. I was also scared to admit that I didn't have a plan. I mean, in like five years I have to actually sustain myself. I will have to file taxes as an independent. God, I will have KIDS someday. I have to have a PLAN RIGHT?
Wrong.
I am 92% sure I will not be majoring OR minoring in Education. Who knows, maybe grad school? It's very scary to admit that me, former PCC and blogger about college, hasn't quite figured out the plan yet. But that's okay. Every day I go to my history class, I become more and more sure that this is something I would love to major in. I have also considered staying in Spanish, and maybe minoring or even MAJORING in it. Yeah, the girl who can't physically roll her r's. Brilliant plan.
At the end of the day though, I am seventeen. I have a pretty good sense about what I love. I love people. I love trying to understand why people do the things they do, what their stories are, how they express themselves, and what they can become. I love kids especially, because the world is vast and wonderful to them. I love dinoflagellates and punnett squares. I love learning Spanish. I love astronomy. I love the clubs I am in, because I feel that HERE and NOW I am on the brink of tapping into the richness of my life. Guys, my life can become something beautiful and meaningful. I can make a difference. I am here, I am now. What I do not know, regardless of what people say, is where my life is going.
So, I am telling you all that changing your mind about what you want to study and about where you want to study is perfectly legitimate. Some people have known their entire lives what they want to be, and they go and do it, and it's wonderful. But don't worry if you're undecided, if you change your major. Sometimes we discover what we thought we loved doesn't capture our hearts, and sometimes we discover things we love that we never considered before. I took Spanish for my language requirement, only to find that I am actually learning the language, and that with time, patience, practice, and an uphill battle, I could become FLUENT. SO COOL.
Know that "the plan" is more like those first few directions on google maps that get you out of your neighborhood. It seems like such a good plan because it's what you know and what you're used to. College is like the REST of the trip. You never what detours come up :]
I'm IN Greek life and NOT in Education? College is weird guys.
Muchos love,
Celinda
Monday, February 27, 2012
Weekly Roundup 7
This is my last full week of classes.
WAIT WHAT???
I know, it's pretty crazy.
Anyway, sorry this is late, to blogging!
5 Best Things This Week
1) I went from 2 hours of Membership to 7.5 hours this week
2) A+ on my second reworked blog!
3) I went to see Twelfth Night :]
4) I got to watch Waiting for Superman in School and Society this week
5) My computer got fixed!!
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) My Spanish test was really hard :/
2) I am trying desperately to get hours in for School and Society and APO :[
3) I've been either spastic or moody most of this week
4) I ended up not going on the field trip Thursday for my religion class
5) There was no Boys and Girls Club this week
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Hm. To narrow it down...yeah, not possible. Just, you know, me.
Words of Wisdom:
If you have things with hour requirements--whether that be for service, study hours, etc.--try to spread them out. Nothing makes the end of a term more stressful than trying desperately to complete hours for things. So...SPREAD IT OUT!
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Computer disks and a flashdrive. Back up important documents and bring all computer disks (software and fixer upper disks).
2) Medicine. I've said it before, but bring medicine, you never know when you will get sick.
3) I'm tired of this term guys. I don't know. Bring lots of cozy blankets for the "UGH, WORLD" naps you're gonna take.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Muslims have a book of Law called the Hadith, which is similar to the Halakah of Judaism.
Social: Twelfth Night is a funny play Mr. Shakespeare :D
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Toasted and buttered bagels from the Gizmo, our burger place
My Weekend:
Friday I had an APO dinner, I went to the play Twelfth Night with APO, and then I went to the APO Membership event. A very APO night :] Saturday I slept in, then went to lunch, then took a nap, then did some hw, then went to dinner, and then I ushered for Twelfth Night. Sunday I did laundry, ate lunch, skyped with Jenny and Chris, did hw, went to dinner, did more hw (sorta....lol), and then went to APO chapter!
Another week! Next weekend is my LAST weekly roundup of WINTER TERM!!
Much Love,
Celinda
WAIT WHAT???
I know, it's pretty crazy.
Anyway, sorry this is late, to blogging!
5 Best Things This Week
1) I went from 2 hours of Membership to 7.5 hours this week
2) A+ on my second reworked blog!
3) I went to see Twelfth Night :]
4) I got to watch Waiting for Superman in School and Society this week
5) My computer got fixed!!
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) My Spanish test was really hard :/
2) I am trying desperately to get hours in for School and Society and APO :[
3) I've been either spastic or moody most of this week
4) I ended up not going on the field trip Thursday for my religion class
5) There was no Boys and Girls Club this week
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Hm. To narrow it down...yeah, not possible. Just, you know, me.
Words of Wisdom:
If you have things with hour requirements--whether that be for service, study hours, etc.--try to spread them out. Nothing makes the end of a term more stressful than trying desperately to complete hours for things. So...SPREAD IT OUT!
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Computer disks and a flashdrive. Back up important documents and bring all computer disks (software and fixer upper disks).
2) Medicine. I've said it before, but bring medicine, you never know when you will get sick.
3) I'm tired of this term guys. I don't know. Bring lots of cozy blankets for the "UGH, WORLD" naps you're gonna take.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Muslims have a book of Law called the Hadith, which is similar to the Halakah of Judaism.
Social: Twelfth Night is a funny play Mr. Shakespeare :D
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Toasted and buttered bagels from the Gizmo, our burger place
My Weekend:
Friday I had an APO dinner, I went to the play Twelfth Night with APO, and then I went to the APO Membership event. A very APO night :] Saturday I slept in, then went to lunch, then took a nap, then did some hw, then went to dinner, and then I ushered for Twelfth Night. Sunday I did laundry, ate lunch, skyped with Jenny and Chris, did hw, went to dinner, did more hw (sorta....lol), and then went to APO chapter!
Another week! Next weekend is my LAST weekly roundup of WINTER TERM!!
Much Love,
Celinda
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Weekly Roundup 6
I have two weeks and two days left before finals. Wut.
Anyway, blogging time!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) My Spanish professor encouraged me to stay in Spanish and travel abroad, because she thinks I am doing really well this term!
2) I had one of those amazing, "everyone is deep and thoughtful" groups in School and Society Friday :D
3) All my immediate family came to visit me!
4) My mustache necklace came this week
5) I got to talk to Lisa Micele!
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) My computer got a hugeee virus, rendering it unusable until I wipe the Operating System completely :[
2) I am super behind in Membership hours for APO, which is kinda panic-inducing
3) I was super tired and moody Friday night
4) I feel like I never sleep ever
5) A kinda sucky Valentine's Day :/
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
LOL. So I was trying to call Lisa on Thursday, as I was leaving the Caf. Now, a thing about me, I tend to wander about when I am on the phone. So, I was looking down at my phone, messing with it, not aware that I had wandered to the middle of the grassy part of the quads in front of the giant window of the Caf. Not even on the phone, but looking down at the phone. Not even on the sidewalk, but on the grassy field. While I am looking like a fool, this guy I kinda like and his entire suite walk by, looking at me like "WTF?". Needless to say, not one of my best moments.
Words of Wisdom:
Sleep. You need to know when to quit and go to bed. You might be having fun, you might be trying to have fun, you might have a ton of homework, you might be stressed. But all of those things will be affected if you don't stop yourself and get some sleep in you. I was asleep by 11 last night. On a Saturday. Make fun all you want, but I was tired and I need to recharge. Your body isn't meant for you to beat it up. Go. To. Sleep. If you need a reminder, here ya go lol http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CseO1XRYs9I
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Gum! It can help with focus, breath smell control, and apparently for me, keeping me awake so I finish my School and Society reading
2) A Computer Nerd. And I say that with the utmost respect, reverence, and awe for people who have the ability to fiddle with computers. As an add-on, bring all your CDs that come with your computer to school
3) Absurd, uselessinthegrandschemeofitall Items. Like a mustache necklace. Seriously guys, this is the coolest thing I have bought.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: I now know what Charter Schools actually are! They're like a public/private school love child :D
Social: Go to performances on campus! Comedy shows, theater performances, concerts. It's fun to engage your mind and have a blast.
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Hash browns. I went back for seconds. I really want more. Hash browns. So much in those two words :D
My Weekend:
Okay, I am getting typer's cramp again, so here it is in bullet form!
Friday:
-Walmart run
-Baking for Blessings in a Backpack
-Improv show
-Ride on Gator/golf cart thing
-Knox's Bday party-->tired and moody at, left early
Saturday:
-Woke up at 9
-Breakfast
-A bit o' homework
-Lunch Hosting with prospective
-Lunch with Daddy and stepmom
-Hanging out with Daddy and stepmom
-They left, Mommy, sister, and poodle came
-Walking around campus with my Big sibling in APO and family
-Max my poodle is a chick magnet LOLZ
-Return to suite and chill
-Sleep
Sunday:
-Woke up at 8:20<--WHYYYY
-Laundry
-Homework
-LUNCH
-Homework
-Blog
Later Today:
-Suite meeting
-DINNER
-APO chapter
Catch you laters, alligators!
Celinda Davis
Anyway, blogging time!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) My Spanish professor encouraged me to stay in Spanish and travel abroad, because she thinks I am doing really well this term!
2) I had one of those amazing, "everyone is deep and thoughtful" groups in School and Society Friday :D
3) All my immediate family came to visit me!
4) My mustache necklace came this week
5) I got to talk to Lisa Micele!
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) My computer got a hugeee virus, rendering it unusable until I wipe the Operating System completely :[
2) I am super behind in Membership hours for APO, which is kinda panic-inducing
3) I was super tired and moody Friday night
4) I feel like I never sleep ever
5) A kinda sucky Valentine's Day :/
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
LOL. So I was trying to call Lisa on Thursday, as I was leaving the Caf. Now, a thing about me, I tend to wander about when I am on the phone. So, I was looking down at my phone, messing with it, not aware that I had wandered to the middle of the grassy part of the quads in front of the giant window of the Caf. Not even on the phone, but looking down at the phone. Not even on the sidewalk, but on the grassy field. While I am looking like a fool, this guy I kinda like and his entire suite walk by, looking at me like "WTF?". Needless to say, not one of my best moments.
Words of Wisdom:
Sleep. You need to know when to quit and go to bed. You might be having fun, you might be trying to have fun, you might have a ton of homework, you might be stressed. But all of those things will be affected if you don't stop yourself and get some sleep in you. I was asleep by 11 last night. On a Saturday. Make fun all you want, but I was tired and I need to recharge. Your body isn't meant for you to beat it up. Go. To. Sleep. If you need a reminder, here ya go lol http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CseO1XRYs9I
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Gum! It can help with focus, breath smell control, and apparently for me, keeping me awake so I finish my School and Society reading
2) A Computer Nerd. And I say that with the utmost respect, reverence, and awe for people who have the ability to fiddle with computers. As an add-on, bring all your CDs that come with your computer to school
3) Absurd, uselessinthegrandschemeofitall Items. Like a mustache necklace. Seriously guys, this is the coolest thing I have bought.
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: I now know what Charter Schools actually are! They're like a public/private school love child :D
Social: Go to performances on campus! Comedy shows, theater performances, concerts. It's fun to engage your mind and have a blast.
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Hash browns. I went back for seconds. I really want more. Hash browns. So much in those two words :D
My Weekend:
Okay, I am getting typer's cramp again, so here it is in bullet form!
Friday:
-Walmart run
-Baking for Blessings in a Backpack
-Improv show
-Ride on Gator/golf cart thing
-Knox's Bday party-->tired and moody at, left early
Saturday:
-Woke up at 9
-Breakfast
-A bit o' homework
-Lunch Hosting with prospective
-Lunch with Daddy and stepmom
-Hanging out with Daddy and stepmom
-They left, Mommy, sister, and poodle came
-Walking around campus with my Big sibling in APO and family
-Max my poodle is a chick magnet LOLZ
-Return to suite and chill
-Sleep
Sunday:
-Woke up at 8:20<--WHYYYY
-Laundry
-Homework
-LUNCH
-Homework
-Blog
Later Today:
-Suite meeting
-DINNER
-APO chapter
Catch you laters, alligators!
Celinda Davis
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Weekly Roundup 5????
Well shoot everyone. WHITNEY HOUSTON DIED :'[
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9nPf7w7pDI
And...we move on.
5 Best Things This Week:
1) Went to this AMAZING education talk
2) Boys and Girls Club was fun this week
3) I went out this weekend, and I.Looked.Good.
4) School and Society was canceled on Friday
5) I got a package AND a letter Friday
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I had a headache all Monday, which made me pissy
2) I barely slept this week because I would stay up talking
3) I continue to be awkward around a few boys to the point that it is pissing me off
4) I had two writing assignments this weekend
5) I didn't get to eat dinner in the cafeteria Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday...
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Can I just nominate my life? Just kidding...um...probably today when I had really long awkward eye contact with a guy known to me as Tiramisu guy....
Words of Wisdom:
In college, and in life, you will have to make choices. The worst part is, the choices won't be black and white, clearly good or bad choices but rather gray area choices. Choices that have pros and cons, good AND bad to them. For example, last night, I was trying to decide if I would go out, or if I would stay home and study/sleep. Both had good parts and bad parts. Remember, there really isn't a wrong choice. It's more about which you will regret not choosing. A good way to figure out what you really want to do is flip a coin. As the coin is spinning, you will know what you want it to land on, and you will know your answer :]
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Loose cash. I had to buy little items that were only a couple of dollars, and it helped that I had cash money in my wallet, instead of JUST my debit card (I still believe a debit card is essential though).
2) A calendar of sorts. I put things in my phone and put alarms to them. Life can be just so busy, especially with the weird college schedules, that having a calendar will save you a headache.
3) A cute item in every color. Sorry this is less on topic for you guys, but for REALZ. I don't own any cute pink items (probably because I hate pink), but I needed to wear pink on Saturday night for a party. Life is so difficult....
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: The Catholic church went through some reform--known as Vatican II--in the 1960s in order to keep up with modern developments.
Social: Sigma Nu is where it's at :D
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Nom nom nom nom fiesta tortilla chicken soup
My Weekend:
Party all day, everyday :D Friday night, we went to the Anti-Valentines Day Dance which was for Post girls and Seymour guys (both single gender dorms). Well, imagine a Uni dance, and imagine it is not the Howdy Hop, Homecoming, Winter Formal, or Prom. If you can guess, we left pretty soon. We went and played Just Dance (seriously guys, I'm getting really good at that game). Afterward, we went to Sigma Nu's party, which was super fun. ALSO, did I mention I was wearing the hottest little red dress? Friday night was my night :]
Saturday I woke up at the ungodly hour of 9 AM, after going to bed at 3 AM...anyway, I went and volunteered at Galesburg's Chocolate Festival (Imagine a buffet of everything chocolate. Now, you know my reality :D). After that, I did a bit of hw. After dinner, I went over to my friend's dorm, got ready, and went to her Music Sorority's Awkward Prom, which was crazy fun (I got to dance awkwardly :D). THEN, my friends and I decided to go to not one, but TWO frat parties. I know, we're crazy. We went to TKE, which had a cool theme--they were raising money for Breast Cancer, so they were TKE Pink. We were there for a while, but this girl was harassing my friend and I, trying to get us to dance with these two guys, and we also wanted to check out Sigma Chi's party, so we left (but, TKE was fun, don't get me wrong). Anyway, Sigma Chi's party was pretty fun too, but there were drunk girls yelling at the top of their lungs so that no one could hear the music :P. Around 1, we went back to the suite, got in pjs, and giggled/talked as us girls sometimes do.
Today was hw/laundry day, nothing too exciting. I am going to chapter tonight for APO though, and it'll be fun because the pledges are going to get their Bigs! :]
PHEW (Typers Cramp!)
Much Love,
Celinda
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9nPf7w7pDI
And...we move on.
5 Best Things This Week:
1) Went to this AMAZING education talk
2) Boys and Girls Club was fun this week
3) I went out this weekend, and I.Looked.Good.
4) School and Society was canceled on Friday
5) I got a package AND a letter Friday
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I had a headache all Monday, which made me pissy
2) I barely slept this week because I would stay up talking
3) I continue to be awkward around a few boys to the point that it is pissing me off
4) I had two writing assignments this weekend
5) I didn't get to eat dinner in the cafeteria Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday...
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Can I just nominate my life? Just kidding...um...probably today when I had really long awkward eye contact with a guy known to me as Tiramisu guy....
Words of Wisdom:
In college, and in life, you will have to make choices. The worst part is, the choices won't be black and white, clearly good or bad choices but rather gray area choices. Choices that have pros and cons, good AND bad to them. For example, last night, I was trying to decide if I would go out, or if I would stay home and study/sleep. Both had good parts and bad parts. Remember, there really isn't a wrong choice. It's more about which you will regret not choosing. A good way to figure out what you really want to do is flip a coin. As the coin is spinning, you will know what you want it to land on, and you will know your answer :]
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Loose cash. I had to buy little items that were only a couple of dollars, and it helped that I had cash money in my wallet, instead of JUST my debit card (I still believe a debit card is essential though).
2) A calendar of sorts. I put things in my phone and put alarms to them. Life can be just so busy, especially with the weird college schedules, that having a calendar will save you a headache.
3) A cute item in every color. Sorry this is less on topic for you guys, but for REALZ. I don't own any cute pink items (probably because I hate pink), but I needed to wear pink on Saturday night for a party. Life is so difficult....
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: The Catholic church went through some reform--known as Vatican II--in the 1960s in order to keep up with modern developments.
Social: Sigma Nu is where it's at :D
Best Food Item in the Caf:
Nom nom nom nom fiesta tortilla chicken soup
My Weekend:
Party all day, everyday :D Friday night, we went to the Anti-Valentines Day Dance which was for Post girls and Seymour guys (both single gender dorms). Well, imagine a Uni dance, and imagine it is not the Howdy Hop, Homecoming, Winter Formal, or Prom. If you can guess, we left pretty soon. We went and played Just Dance (seriously guys, I'm getting really good at that game). Afterward, we went to Sigma Nu's party, which was super fun. ALSO, did I mention I was wearing the hottest little red dress? Friday night was my night :]
Saturday I woke up at the ungodly hour of 9 AM, after going to bed at 3 AM...anyway, I went and volunteered at Galesburg's Chocolate Festival (Imagine a buffet of everything chocolate. Now, you know my reality :D). After that, I did a bit of hw. After dinner, I went over to my friend's dorm, got ready, and went to her Music Sorority's Awkward Prom, which was crazy fun (I got to dance awkwardly :D). THEN, my friends and I decided to go to not one, but TWO frat parties. I know, we're crazy. We went to TKE, which had a cool theme--they were raising money for Breast Cancer, so they were TKE Pink. We were there for a while, but this girl was harassing my friend and I, trying to get us to dance with these two guys, and we also wanted to check out Sigma Chi's party, so we left (but, TKE was fun, don't get me wrong). Anyway, Sigma Chi's party was pretty fun too, but there were drunk girls yelling at the top of their lungs so that no one could hear the music :P. Around 1, we went back to the suite, got in pjs, and giggled/talked as us girls sometimes do.
Today was hw/laundry day, nothing too exciting. I am going to chapter tonight for APO though, and it'll be fun because the pledges are going to get their Bigs! :]
PHEW (Typers Cramp!)
Much Love,
Celinda
Monday, February 6, 2012
Weekly Roundup 4: We're Halfway Thereeeeee....
Yo my CU peoples!
Sorry I didn't write the blog yesterday, I was too busy watching the GIANTS DOMINATE THE PATRIOTS Y'ALL :D
And, now the blog.
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got an A on my Spanish Test
2) I donated blood
3) I went to a very fun birthday party!
4) I have a really fun project idea for my School and Society class
5) SUUUUUPER BOWL :D
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I fainted AFTER giving blood
2) I'm pretty broke until this Friday
3) Still not talking as much in my classes
4) I've been super busy for like 2 weeks now
5) I've spent a TON of my dining dollars
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Alright, on Friday going through Saturday, I had a lot of sugar/caffeine. So, at dinner Saturday, I was super revved up and overly energetic in the Caf. Add in two guys that I kinda, sorta like, and I was a basket of nerves. So, the whole meal I was just psychotic and on edge.
Words of Wisdom:
If you beat yourself up or are prone to panicking, or just can be an excitable person, then you probably have heard OVER AND OVER people telling you to calm down. I can't even count how many times I have heard people say "Dude, calm down" or "It's not a big deal" or "It's just..." or wanting to give me advice on how to make my seemingly big issue a non-issue. Okay, I get it everyone. I UNDERSTAND that sometimes I panic more than I need to. But it's just who I am. Also, if I am just being bubbly and exciting, nothing deflates my happiness faster than someone telling me "Dude, calm down, it's not a big deal". I guess I just wanted to complain. I suppose my words of wisdom is if someone tells you to chill, take three deep breaths before saying "Don't worry, I just need my moment". Because you know what? You might just need a moment and that is perfectly OKAY.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Water. Passing out is not fun. Drink plenty of water (and juice/Gatorade) before and after anything that is strenuous to your body, whether that be dance, a blood donation, a meet, a game, or a marathon.
2) A Good Advising Relationship. I went to go talk to my adviser. It was really nice because I was able to actually talk out some of my academic plans with him, and I was able to make the decision to drop Education Studies from a major to a minor. I will be doing a blog soon about majors, minors, academic planning, and the truth of change.
3) Chips and Dip. Hey, it was Super Bowl Sunday after all :D
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Some states are trying to opt out of NCLB or at least change some requirements. Some of the states are doing it because of cheating scandals :O
Social: I might never get tired of Johnny Depp being a pirate. He's so damn funny :D
Best Food in the Caf:
I discovered the panini maker this week. Simultaneously, I discovered the basil pesto spread. My life will never be the same again.
My Weekend:
This was seriously one of the best weekends I have had in college. Friday night I began the first part of my project and went to sleep early. Slept in on Saturday. Went to lunch where there was a guy dressed up as a groundhog for Groundhog's Day (I fell in love). After getting a cup of "dirt" with gummy worms, I went shopping in town! Saturday night I went to a super fun birthday party, complete with Apples to Apples and Pirates of the Caribbean. Sunday, I did laundry, worked out, finished homework, WATCHED THE SUPER BOWL, and went to a fun APO meeting! Phewww, busy busy!!
Good Night and Good Luck,
Edward R. Murrow
...
JK
Much Love,
Celinda :]
Sorry I didn't write the blog yesterday, I was too busy watching the GIANTS DOMINATE THE PATRIOTS Y'ALL :D
And, now the blog.
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got an A on my Spanish Test
2) I donated blood
3) I went to a very fun birthday party!
4) I have a really fun project idea for my School and Society class
5) SUUUUUPER BOWL :D
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I fainted AFTER giving blood
2) I'm pretty broke until this Friday
3) Still not talking as much in my classes
4) I've been super busy for like 2 weeks now
5) I've spent a TON of my dining dollars
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
Alright, on Friday going through Saturday, I had a lot of sugar/caffeine. So, at dinner Saturday, I was super revved up and overly energetic in the Caf. Add in two guys that I kinda, sorta like, and I was a basket of nerves. So, the whole meal I was just psychotic and on edge.
Words of Wisdom:
If you beat yourself up or are prone to panicking, or just can be an excitable person, then you probably have heard OVER AND OVER people telling you to calm down. I can't even count how many times I have heard people say "Dude, calm down" or "It's not a big deal" or "It's just..." or wanting to give me advice on how to make my seemingly big issue a non-issue. Okay, I get it everyone. I UNDERSTAND that sometimes I panic more than I need to. But it's just who I am. Also, if I am just being bubbly and exciting, nothing deflates my happiness faster than someone telling me "Dude, calm down, it's not a big deal". I guess I just wanted to complain. I suppose my words of wisdom is if someone tells you to chill, take three deep breaths before saying "Don't worry, I just need my moment". Because you know what? You might just need a moment and that is perfectly OKAY.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Water. Passing out is not fun. Drink plenty of water (and juice/Gatorade) before and after anything that is strenuous to your body, whether that be dance, a blood donation, a meet, a game, or a marathon.
2) A Good Advising Relationship. I went to go talk to my adviser. It was really nice because I was able to actually talk out some of my academic plans with him, and I was able to make the decision to drop Education Studies from a major to a minor. I will be doing a blog soon about majors, minors, academic planning, and the truth of change.
3) Chips and Dip. Hey, it was Super Bowl Sunday after all :D
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Some states are trying to opt out of NCLB or at least change some requirements. Some of the states are doing it because of cheating scandals :O
Social: I might never get tired of Johnny Depp being a pirate. He's so damn funny :D
Best Food in the Caf:
I discovered the panini maker this week. Simultaneously, I discovered the basil pesto spread. My life will never be the same again.
My Weekend:
This was seriously one of the best weekends I have had in college. Friday night I began the first part of my project and went to sleep early. Slept in on Saturday. Went to lunch where there was a guy dressed up as a groundhog for Groundhog's Day (I fell in love). After getting a cup of "dirt" with gummy worms, I went shopping in town! Saturday night I went to a super fun birthday party, complete with Apples to Apples and Pirates of the Caribbean. Sunday, I did laundry, worked out, finished homework, WATCHED THE SUPER BOWL, and went to a fun APO meeting! Phewww, busy busy!!
Good Night and Good Luck,
Edward R. Murrow
...
JK
Much Love,
Celinda :]
Monday, January 30, 2012
Lessons Learned
I walked out of the classroom, repeating "Holy Sh**!" in my mind. I had just received my grade for the writing assignment I had done for my Judaism, Christianity, and Islam class.
I had gotten a C-
At Uni High, we celebrate our talents. We are challenged. We discuss ideas, break them down, reform them with new understandings. We calculate, analyze, and create. The teachers tirelessly give everything to further our educations. We walk across the stage on a beautiful day in May, graduation caps and glows. We leave Uni High changed, mostly for the better.
At Uni High, we don't talk about mistakes or mess-ups enough.
I don't know when I became my worst critic. Possibly when I started taking the SSATs. Possibly when I started Montessori when I was 4. Possibly I was born that way. All I know is that whenever I do something wrong, less than stellar, not up to par, or even slightly off, I will beat myself about it. Today was no different. I convinced myself this afternoon that I was the dumbest person on this planet, that I could never possibly succeed as a History major, that I was worthless, that I couldn't write, and worst of all, that I was embarrassed to be Celinda.
A part of me realizes that I am a bit melodramatic. But in all sincerity, how did I become a person who sobs over one assignment, and who convinces themselves that they are stupid? I began to worry. Do many Uni kids beat themselves up when they make mistakes? Do people in general criticize themselves until they actually believe they are worthless?
I will tell you the truth. I want to delete this entire blog post. I want to crawl into my bed. I want to pretend that I never got that grade. But I am not going to do any of those things. Instead, I am going to take a stand right now. I want you all to know that I didn't do so hot on this assignment (C-, just in case you or I forgot), but it's OKAY.
We mess up. We let people down. We forget things. We don't finish things. We make mistakes. We don't do our best. The key word though is WE. We, as in people, are not perfect. And I don't think anyone should strive to be.
That isn't to say lessons can't be learned here. I now know to read more carefully the expectations. I know to take my time with the next assignment. I know that I might need to go talk to my professor. I now know that a Uni High diploma doesn't mean you're somehow immune to hard work or challenges. But a lesson can be learned about being imperfect.
I lose things a lot. I sometimes forget to read an assignment or to do the online Spanish homework. I eat too many sweets. I tend to gossip. I can be selfish. I can be mean. I can be melodramatic. I can't, for the life of me, whistle. I could spend forever and a day breaking myself down, finding every wrong angle, every shadow in my being. But in the grand scheme of things, being your worst enemy can obscure the fact that you are also your best friend.
I got an A on the Judaism test. I got a perfect on my project for School and Society. I went to work today. I woke up on time. I had all my homework done. I helped a friend get a job. I ate lunch and drank water.
What I am getting at here is that life is a balancing act. Don't forget that you are imperfect. Acknowledging that you are imperfect means that you are humble and that you are willing to change and grow and learn. Be aware when you make a mistake or when you hurt someone. Work actively to try to right the wrong or to apologize. But also remember that you are unique and wacky and cool. Remember why you bring a little sunshine into this world. Remember all those assignments you kicked ass on, all those games or recitals you performed wonderfully at, all the lives you have have changed for the better.
I want you all to remember that for every A you get, for every assignment you worked hard on, you will get a bad grade or bad report also. I'm terrified to tell you all that I got a C-, because I wanted to show teachers, faculty, students, and parents alike that I am thriving in college. But, I would be lying to everyone including myself, if I didn't show you when college can be hard or frustrating. The truth is, I can only thrive in college when I acknowledge and learn from my mistakes AND when I celebrate and replicate my successes.
I got a C- today, but I learned a life lesson. And in the grand scheme of my life, the lesson means so much more.
Much Love,
Celinda Davis, and proud to be her.
I had gotten a C-
At Uni High, we celebrate our talents. We are challenged. We discuss ideas, break them down, reform them with new understandings. We calculate, analyze, and create. The teachers tirelessly give everything to further our educations. We walk across the stage on a beautiful day in May, graduation caps and glows. We leave Uni High changed, mostly for the better.
At Uni High, we don't talk about mistakes or mess-ups enough.
I don't know when I became my worst critic. Possibly when I started taking the SSATs. Possibly when I started Montessori when I was 4. Possibly I was born that way. All I know is that whenever I do something wrong, less than stellar, not up to par, or even slightly off, I will beat myself about it. Today was no different. I convinced myself this afternoon that I was the dumbest person on this planet, that I could never possibly succeed as a History major, that I was worthless, that I couldn't write, and worst of all, that I was embarrassed to be Celinda.
A part of me realizes that I am a bit melodramatic. But in all sincerity, how did I become a person who sobs over one assignment, and who convinces themselves that they are stupid? I began to worry. Do many Uni kids beat themselves up when they make mistakes? Do people in general criticize themselves until they actually believe they are worthless?
I will tell you the truth. I want to delete this entire blog post. I want to crawl into my bed. I want to pretend that I never got that grade. But I am not going to do any of those things. Instead, I am going to take a stand right now. I want you all to know that I didn't do so hot on this assignment (C-, just in case you or I forgot), but it's OKAY.
We mess up. We let people down. We forget things. We don't finish things. We make mistakes. We don't do our best. The key word though is WE. We, as in people, are not perfect. And I don't think anyone should strive to be.
That isn't to say lessons can't be learned here. I now know to read more carefully the expectations. I know to take my time with the next assignment. I know that I might need to go talk to my professor. I now know that a Uni High diploma doesn't mean you're somehow immune to hard work or challenges. But a lesson can be learned about being imperfect.
I lose things a lot. I sometimes forget to read an assignment or to do the online Spanish homework. I eat too many sweets. I tend to gossip. I can be selfish. I can be mean. I can be melodramatic. I can't, for the life of me, whistle. I could spend forever and a day breaking myself down, finding every wrong angle, every shadow in my being. But in the grand scheme of things, being your worst enemy can obscure the fact that you are also your best friend.
I got an A on the Judaism test. I got a perfect on my project for School and Society. I went to work today. I woke up on time. I had all my homework done. I helped a friend get a job. I ate lunch and drank water.
What I am getting at here is that life is a balancing act. Don't forget that you are imperfect. Acknowledging that you are imperfect means that you are humble and that you are willing to change and grow and learn. Be aware when you make a mistake or when you hurt someone. Work actively to try to right the wrong or to apologize. But also remember that you are unique and wacky and cool. Remember why you bring a little sunshine into this world. Remember all those assignments you kicked ass on, all those games or recitals you performed wonderfully at, all the lives you have have changed for the better.
I want you all to remember that for every A you get, for every assignment you worked hard on, you will get a bad grade or bad report also. I'm terrified to tell you all that I got a C-, because I wanted to show teachers, faculty, students, and parents alike that I am thriving in college. But, I would be lying to everyone including myself, if I didn't show you when college can be hard or frustrating. The truth is, I can only thrive in college when I acknowledge and learn from my mistakes AND when I celebrate and replicate my successes.
I got a C- today, but I learned a life lesson. And in the grand scheme of my life, the lesson means so much more.
Much Love,
Celinda Davis, and proud to be her.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Weekly Roundup 3
Wow...I feel like I have been here forever...
Anyways, sometime this week (knock on wood) I am going to do a very important blog post about promises, parties, drama, a sweeping overview of social life at college (because I apparently am an expert lol). I also plan on changing my weekly roundups to Sunday officially, because that's when I do them anyways :]
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I had a fun and social weekend! 2 parties y'all (tear, I'm growing up!)
2) Bonding with my friend from Spanish
3) A really successful project in School and Society
4) I got like 15 people to sign up for APO's Blood Drive!
5) APO SCAVENGER HUNT
(Bonus one: Talking to Lisa Micele this afternoon! Miss you all, you crazy Uni people)
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I have had a headache all day...
2) Some drama happened this weekend, where I let someone down
3) I didn't do my first blog for Christianity
4) Boys.
5) Being super busy all the time
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I convinced myself on Friday that a desk was a left handed desk. Then when I sat in the desk in the row behind, I was confused for like 30 seconds how they could be aligning...*facepalm*
Words of Wisdom:
I will explain this in more depth on my special topic blog coming up, but don't make a promise you know you can't or don't want to keep. On that same note, know that you will break promises or mess up. It's human. Don't beat yourself up, like I have been doing all day. To err is human. Someone famous said that :D
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Money. Honestly, most of this week I had $5 in my bank account. I missed money lol
2) Time Management Skills. Intangible, but essential. You need to learn how to divide and conquer with homework and extracurriculars in college!
3) Water. Drink plenty of water. Completely general, hypothetical tip, if you drink, drink plenty of water alongside it. You'll get dehydrated and get a headache!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Jesus in the Gospel of Mark cures people, but then tells them not to announce that fact. They ignore him though, and Jesus becomes famous in Nazareth and the surrounding area.
Social: Improv kids are some of the funniest kids. Ever.
Best Food in the Caf:
Soft shelled tacos, with guac and hot peppers. MMMMM.
My Weekend:
Well...it was eventful :] APO SCAVENGER HUNT Y'ALL. Then, I went to parties, went shopping on Saturday, did my laundry, and did all my homework today (BLEGH).
And, we bid adieu to another fascinating week in the life of Celinda Kimberly Davis
Much Love,
...Celinda :D
Anyways, sometime this week (knock on wood) I am going to do a very important blog post about promises, parties, drama, a sweeping overview of social life at college (because I apparently am an expert lol). I also plan on changing my weekly roundups to Sunday officially, because that's when I do them anyways :]
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I had a fun and social weekend! 2 parties y'all (tear, I'm growing up!)
2) Bonding with my friend from Spanish
3) A really successful project in School and Society
4) I got like 15 people to sign up for APO's Blood Drive!
5) APO SCAVENGER HUNT
(Bonus one: Talking to Lisa Micele this afternoon! Miss you all, you crazy Uni people)
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I have had a headache all day...
2) Some drama happened this weekend, where I let someone down
3) I didn't do my first blog for Christianity
4) Boys.
5) Being super busy all the time
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I convinced myself on Friday that a desk was a left handed desk. Then when I sat in the desk in the row behind, I was confused for like 30 seconds how they could be aligning...*facepalm*
Words of Wisdom:
I will explain this in more depth on my special topic blog coming up, but don't make a promise you know you can't or don't want to keep. On that same note, know that you will break promises or mess up. It's human. Don't beat yourself up, like I have been doing all day. To err is human. Someone famous said that :D
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Money. Honestly, most of this week I had $5 in my bank account. I missed money lol
2) Time Management Skills. Intangible, but essential. You need to learn how to divide and conquer with homework and extracurriculars in college!
3) Water. Drink plenty of water. Completely general, hypothetical tip, if you drink, drink plenty of water alongside it. You'll get dehydrated and get a headache!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Jesus in the Gospel of Mark cures people, but then tells them not to announce that fact. They ignore him though, and Jesus becomes famous in Nazareth and the surrounding area.
Social: Improv kids are some of the funniest kids. Ever.
Best Food in the Caf:
Soft shelled tacos, with guac and hot peppers. MMMMM.
My Weekend:
Well...it was eventful :] APO SCAVENGER HUNT Y'ALL. Then, I went to parties, went shopping on Saturday, did my laundry, and did all my homework today (BLEGH).
And, we bid adieu to another fascinating week in the life of Celinda Kimberly Davis
Much Love,
...Celinda :D
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Weekly Roundup 2
*SIGH* It's been a long week, which is my reason for not blogging Friday night, or last night. But, I am in a better, healthier, and happier mood, so time to blog!
The 5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got a 100% on my second School and Society paper
2) I played Just Dance 2 for an hour and a half
3) I got an A on my big Spanish oral exam
4) I had Helmut's delicious Tirimasu today
5) I finally worked out!
The 5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I had a ton of homework and stress
2) I haven't really spoken up in my classes
3) I've been wearing nail polish nonstop since September, and I decided to give them a break. Now they're all breaking >:[
4) I was angry and reckless feeling yesterday evening (don't worry all, didn't do anything stupid)
5) I haven't been doing so well from eating sugary treats
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I hugged a vending machine.
Words of Wisdom:
Don't be afraid to speak up in discussion classes! Plenty of things can hold even the most talkative people back. I have been panicking in my School and Society class because there are no wrong answers. It's like talking to Mr. Vaughn, except the class is full of people you don't know (or in my case, people I know and don't want to embarrass myself in front of). Or, you could be afraid to embarrass yourself, to say a wrong answer, you're tired, you don't care about the class, or you feel unprepared. But, the only way to overcome your fear of speaking in class is to speak up in class. Part of learning is to be wrong. In a competitive environment like Uni, familial pressure, or self-pressure we sometimes convince ourselves that wrong is bad. But often you must be wrong in order to become right. So speak up, be wrong, and learn a little :] It's my plan this week.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Syllabi. You should actually look at one from time to time, instead of thinking you know the assignment like me...forgot to do Friday's reading in Judaism. No wonder I was confused.
2) A space to decompress. I found that my suite is not conducive to calming me down when I am mad or sad. Fortunately, walking around, or sitting in the student lounge helps.
3) An editor. Sometimes you just need a second pair of eyes for editing papers!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Judaism, at least in the beginning or some kinds of it, embraced the Enlightenment and didn't see it as destructive to the religion.
Social: Just Dance is really good for dispelling bad moods and is good exercise.
Best Food in the Caf:
Not a caf food but a C-Store item. CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS Y'ALL. Hershey's chocolate to be exact. Heaven in a bag :D
Plans for the Weekend:
Um, well, I haD a good weekend. Friday I went on a field trip to the local temple. Saturday I slept in, watched Clueless and in the afternoon had an adventure. Today I have done laundry and some homework. Tonight, we have a Pledging Ceremony for APO!! :D It's weird being on the other side, as an active member...
And that my friends, is another week at Knox College, Galesburg, Il, 61401!
Much Love,
Celinda :]
The 5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got a 100% on my second School and Society paper
2) I played Just Dance 2 for an hour and a half
3) I got an A on my big Spanish oral exam
4) I had Helmut's delicious Tirimasu today
5) I finally worked out!
The 5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I had a ton of homework and stress
2) I haven't really spoken up in my classes
3) I've been wearing nail polish nonstop since September, and I decided to give them a break. Now they're all breaking >:[
4) I was angry and reckless feeling yesterday evening (don't worry all, didn't do anything stupid)
5) I haven't been doing so well from eating sugary treats
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
I hugged a vending machine.
Words of Wisdom:
Don't be afraid to speak up in discussion classes! Plenty of things can hold even the most talkative people back. I have been panicking in my School and Society class because there are no wrong answers. It's like talking to Mr. Vaughn, except the class is full of people you don't know (or in my case, people I know and don't want to embarrass myself in front of). Or, you could be afraid to embarrass yourself, to say a wrong answer, you're tired, you don't care about the class, or you feel unprepared. But, the only way to overcome your fear of speaking in class is to speak up in class. Part of learning is to be wrong. In a competitive environment like Uni, familial pressure, or self-pressure we sometimes convince ourselves that wrong is bad. But often you must be wrong in order to become right. So speak up, be wrong, and learn a little :] It's my plan this week.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Syllabi. You should actually look at one from time to time, instead of thinking you know the assignment like me...forgot to do Friday's reading in Judaism. No wonder I was confused.
2) A space to decompress. I found that my suite is not conducive to calming me down when I am mad or sad. Fortunately, walking around, or sitting in the student lounge helps.
3) An editor. Sometimes you just need a second pair of eyes for editing papers!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: Judaism, at least in the beginning or some kinds of it, embraced the Enlightenment and didn't see it as destructive to the religion.
Social: Just Dance is really good for dispelling bad moods and is good exercise.
Best Food in the Caf:
Not a caf food but a C-Store item. CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZELS Y'ALL. Hershey's chocolate to be exact. Heaven in a bag :D
Plans for the Weekend:
Um, well, I haD a good weekend. Friday I went on a field trip to the local temple. Saturday I slept in, watched Clueless and in the afternoon had an adventure. Today I have done laundry and some homework. Tonight, we have a Pledging Ceremony for APO!! :D It's weird being on the other side, as an active member...
And that my friends, is another week at Knox College, Galesburg, Il, 61401!
Much Love,
Celinda :]
Friday, January 13, 2012
Weekly Roundup 1: Winter Wonderland Edition
SNOWWWWW EVERYONE!
I might be the ripe old age of 17 now, but I still love snow. I might or might not have thrown a snowball at my friend on the way to class today. And I might or might not have thrown a large amount of it in the air out of joy...
Before I get into my weekly roundup, I want to extend a deeply felt, absolutely sincere thank you to my teachers at Uni High. This week has been a little bumpy as I adjust to the academic levels asked by an institution of higher learning. However, the skill sets and breadth of knowledge I received at Uni High made it a successful week. I want to specifically thank Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Rayburn, and Mr. Vaughn for teaching me how to argue a position and write a clear thesis statement. On an assignment I did for School and Society, the teacher wrote "I like that you take a strong position here". He also wrote that the assignment overall was good, that I took a clear position and defended it well. So, thank you so much for being such amazing teachers. I am very blessed that I had the honor of being your student.
Anyways, time for my first weekly roundup in Winter Term!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got a 4 out of 5 on my first Education Class assignment!
2) It snowed! FINALLY!
3) My lovely friends Heather and Cristina visited :]
4) I got all ten hours of work this week
5) I finally understand direct and indirect object pronouns en Espanol lol
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I went to bed really late Monday and Tuesday night because of Spanish HW
2) I got sick bleghhhhhh
3) I didn't really talk in either of my new classes this week :/
4) It snowed...so cold and windy!
5) I haven't gone to the gym yet, like I planned
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
So, as previously mentioned, I'm sick guys. And yesterday I was working in the morning, with just one of adult employees and another student worker. This means the office was quiet. Anyways, I was working on checking and sending out letters, and there were a lot of them, when I suddenly started coughing, and I. COULD. NOT. STOP. When 10:30 came around, I hadn't finished, but I had to go to class. I had been coughing for like two minutes now, and it was so loud in the quiet office. Even worse, I had been coughing so hard that tears were streaming down my face. Long story short, I had to inform both the employee and the student worker that I wasn't done but I had to go, all the while looking like it broke my damn heart....LOL at my life guys. L.O.L.
Words of Wisdom:
Don't stretch yourself too thin. You only have so much to give to the world before you start half-assing things, or hurting yourself. For a personal example, I volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club, take three classes (two of which are reading/writing intensive and one that is a language), I volunteer with Blessings in a Backpack, AND I am an active member of APO. So basically? I do a ton of stuff. I almost decided to volunteer tutor at the alternative school in town, but I realize I don't have the ENERGY. So, think depth, not breadth. Give your time meaningfully to a few activities, whether that is a sport, a literary magazine, or a volunteer opportunity, rather than stretching yourself thin by doing EVERYTHING.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Cough Drops. My throat was killing me for like four days, and these helped.
2) Drowsy Cold and Flu meds. College dorms are notoriously loud, and the medication helps you sleep as well as hold back your symptoms.
3) Gloves/Hats/etc. If you are going to a college that has cold winters, definitely invest in good winter gear. You are outside a lot--walking to and from class, to the dorm, to the cafeteria, to the gym, etc. Be smart and dress warm, so you don't catch a cold!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: "Judaism" has actually gone through multiple stages throughout history--Ancient Israelite Religion, Second Temple Judaism, Rabbinic Judaism, etc.
Social: Even though I seem like an introvert, not going out much, I am actually very happy with my life. I've got a great set of friends, and plenty of nice acquaintances :]
Best Food Item In The Caf:
Not so much food or an item that is made, but Peppermint Tea is DELICIOUS yo :]
Plans For The Weekend:
Sleep...sleep? Um...oh, sleep! A lot of sleep, a sprinkling of homework, an Agatha Christie novel I am in the middle of, APO meeting, and possibly a Target run. So, actually, fairly relaxed.
And, that is a week (well, the first FULL week) at Knox College, Winter Term!
Keep Posted,
Celinda :]
I might be the ripe old age of 17 now, but I still love snow. I might or might not have thrown a snowball at my friend on the way to class today. And I might or might not have thrown a large amount of it in the air out of joy...
Before I get into my weekly roundup, I want to extend a deeply felt, absolutely sincere thank you to my teachers at Uni High. This week has been a little bumpy as I adjust to the academic levels asked by an institution of higher learning. However, the skill sets and breadth of knowledge I received at Uni High made it a successful week. I want to specifically thank Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Rayburn, and Mr. Vaughn for teaching me how to argue a position and write a clear thesis statement. On an assignment I did for School and Society, the teacher wrote "I like that you take a strong position here". He also wrote that the assignment overall was good, that I took a clear position and defended it well. So, thank you so much for being such amazing teachers. I am very blessed that I had the honor of being your student.
Anyways, time for my first weekly roundup in Winter Term!
5 Best Things This Week:
1) I got a 4 out of 5 on my first Education Class assignment!
2) It snowed! FINALLY!
3) My lovely friends Heather and Cristina visited :]
4) I got all ten hours of work this week
5) I finally understand direct and indirect object pronouns en Espanol lol
5 Worst Things This Week:
1) I went to bed really late Monday and Tuesday night because of Spanish HW
2) I got sick bleghhhhhh
3) I didn't really talk in either of my new classes this week :/
4) It snowed...so cold and windy!
5) I haven't gone to the gym yet, like I planned
Most Embarrassing Moment This Week:
So, as previously mentioned, I'm sick guys. And yesterday I was working in the morning, with just one of adult employees and another student worker. This means the office was quiet. Anyways, I was working on checking and sending out letters, and there were a lot of them, when I suddenly started coughing, and I. COULD. NOT. STOP. When 10:30 came around, I hadn't finished, but I had to go to class. I had been coughing for like two minutes now, and it was so loud in the quiet office. Even worse, I had been coughing so hard that tears were streaming down my face. Long story short, I had to inform both the employee and the student worker that I wasn't done but I had to go, all the while looking like it broke my damn heart....LOL at my life guys. L.O.L.
Words of Wisdom:
Don't stretch yourself too thin. You only have so much to give to the world before you start half-assing things, or hurting yourself. For a personal example, I volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club, take three classes (two of which are reading/writing intensive and one that is a language), I volunteer with Blessings in a Backpack, AND I am an active member of APO. So basically? I do a ton of stuff. I almost decided to volunteer tutor at the alternative school in town, but I realize I don't have the ENERGY. So, think depth, not breadth. Give your time meaningfully to a few activities, whether that is a sport, a literary magazine, or a volunteer opportunity, rather than stretching yourself thin by doing EVERYTHING.
3 Most Essential Items This Week:
1) Cough Drops. My throat was killing me for like four days, and these helped.
2) Drowsy Cold and Flu meds. College dorms are notoriously loud, and the medication helps you sleep as well as hold back your symptoms.
3) Gloves/Hats/etc. If you are going to a college that has cold winters, definitely invest in good winter gear. You are outside a lot--walking to and from class, to the dorm, to the cafeteria, to the gym, etc. Be smart and dress warm, so you don't catch a cold!
Most Interesting Discovery This Week:
Academic: "Judaism" has actually gone through multiple stages throughout history--Ancient Israelite Religion, Second Temple Judaism, Rabbinic Judaism, etc.
Social: Even though I seem like an introvert, not going out much, I am actually very happy with my life. I've got a great set of friends, and plenty of nice acquaintances :]
Best Food Item In The Caf:
Not so much food or an item that is made, but Peppermint Tea is DELICIOUS yo :]
Plans For The Weekend:
Sleep...sleep? Um...oh, sleep! A lot of sleep, a sprinkling of homework, an Agatha Christie novel I am in the middle of, APO meeting, and possibly a Target run. So, actually, fairly relaxed.
And, that is a week (well, the first FULL week) at Knox College, Winter Term!
Keep Posted,
Celinda :]
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
New Term, New Celinda? Maybe?
Well, I had a wonderful break! Unfortunately, it's over.
...
I have two new classes to introduce! I am taking School and Society, which is the first required class for my Education major :D I am also taking Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which is a 100 level class towards my other major of History! So, new classes, new experiences.
I am also an active member of APO, which is groovy. I can vote on things, like bylaws...whoo?
AND...I'm sick.
That's right, I am a week and a half in and I got sick. What is this?
But anyways, I want to just have a quick blog kind of announcing what to expect this term from your favorite College Blogger!
-The Adventures of Celinda's Weekends: I might actually go out more this term. We'll see. I'm kinda lazy lol
-Celinda and Her Majors: I am actually taking classes in the subjects I have said I will major in. This term is important then, because I might want to change my mind. It happens!
-Guest Blogs: I hope to get more perspectives!
-Information Pertaining College First Term: I have now officially lived through a term, so I am in a better position to give tips about moving in, the first term, friends, volunteering, classes, etc.
And much more! So, stay tuned, because I'm back for Winter Term and things are going to get CRAZY.
Love,
Celinda :]
...
I have two new classes to introduce! I am taking School and Society, which is the first required class for my Education major :D I am also taking Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which is a 100 level class towards my other major of History! So, new classes, new experiences.
I am also an active member of APO, which is groovy. I can vote on things, like bylaws...whoo?
AND...I'm sick.
That's right, I am a week and a half in and I got sick. What is this?
But anyways, I want to just have a quick blog kind of announcing what to expect this term from your favorite College Blogger!
-The Adventures of Celinda's Weekends: I might actually go out more this term. We'll see. I'm kinda lazy lol
-Celinda and Her Majors: I am actually taking classes in the subjects I have said I will major in. This term is important then, because I might want to change my mind. It happens!
-Guest Blogs: I hope to get more perspectives!
-Information Pertaining College First Term: I have now officially lived through a term, so I am in a better position to give tips about moving in, the first term, friends, volunteering, classes, etc.
And much more! So, stay tuned, because I'm back for Winter Term and things are going to get CRAZY.
Love,
Celinda :]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)