I was inspired by a friend to write a blog about thankfulness. As we all know Thanksgiving is right around the corner and being thankful seems to be the topic of conversation at so many dinner tables on that blessed day. As I lie awake with my mind racing about everything from what I need at the grocery store to thinking about Heather's wedding plans, I can't help but be thankful for...
People who I love that love me back
sisters
ALL my family (even those cousins and the aunt who aren't technically blood but more family than I could have ever hoped for)
the most amazing parents that God blessed me with for 23 years
graduate school, even though it's hard
new friends
old friends
cell phones and text messaging
churches who broadcast online for those days we can't get ourselves out of bed
Taylor Swift songs that can always make me smile, cry, and laugh all at the same time
inspirational quotes
Cyndi's constant love, support, thoughtfulness, teaching, inspiration, kindness, and willingness to go to Walmart with me even if its the middle of the night and too cold for bugs to survive :)
gas prices going down
google from my cell, who needs phonebooks?
waking up to the smell of waffles and bacon, well maybe when I get home?
Gracie, Lane, Caden, and all the beautiful babies to come!
forgiveness
secrets between friends
the way Christmas lights make everyhouse look like a fairy tale
pictures, i love to document memories-even if they aren't my own
falling asleep on the phone
fancy dresses and the way they transform every girl into a princess
and I am thankful for where I am because it is where God has asked me to be.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Living in the Present.
It has been awhile since I have posted and I apologize. Ali is a wonderful friend that constantly keeps me on track, so after several of her postings and her asking when I was going to post next, I thought I would today. I have been incredibly busy with papers, projects, presentations, and traveling that I haven't had the chance to really sit down and share with you all what has been going on. I figured I would touch on a few things as well as some thoughts I have been having.
Since the last time I posted, grad school definitely hit me right smack dab in the face. As noted in my previous posting, I completed my first and only midterm of the semester. I am pretty pleased with my grade; however, I know that I can do better. So, I am prepping for the final now, especially because I am aware of what a good midterm/final should look like. A couple weeks ago, I conducted my very first three hour presentation. Yes, you read correctly... a THREE hour presentation. My partner, Crystal, and I had to teach a class period on hiring. I was very nervous about this presentation due to my LACK of knowledge in hiring employees to positions within a company. Of course, we were given material to study prior to the presentation, but it was intimidating to teach management professionals something that they already knew through experience from a text book standpoint. However, everything turned out really great and really boosted my self confidence! There was a ton of discussion going on with everyone sharing their experiences with the class and participating in the different activties we presented. We ended up with a perfect score, so I am pleased and glad that is all over! That same week, I had another presentation as well as a teaching observation paper and syllabus project due! Luckily, my second presentation was only 15 minutes, so it was a breeze after the first presentation. I had a wonderful partner, Cynthia, who was so great to work with and it was nice getting to know another person in my class. I really enjoyed writing my teaching observation paper because it allowed me to really apply what I have been learning in class to a specific individual and classroom situation. However, my favorite part of that crazy week was working on the syllabus project. It was really a lot of work, but it was neat to see how fun it can become by putting in a little creativity. PLUS, it was nice to see "Dr. Cyndi Munson" on a piece of paper, even if it was fake. :) Looking back, I am wondering how in the world I survived that week? WHEW!
As Ali posted below, we both had the opportunity to travel back to Oklahoma for about 11 days. Just as everyone else was wondering, I am sure you are wondering how we were able to get away for THAT LONG. Well, I'll tell you quickly. We left on a Thursday evening, giving us the entire weekend, plus Fall Break. Since Ali and I only work and go to class Tuesday through Thursday, we only missed two days of work and two classes. Seeing as how we needed to be in Oklahoma for two weekends back-to-back, it didn't make much sense for us to travel back to Nebraska for a day and a half. We have had these dates planned prior to entering graduate school, so we were well prepared and notified everyone in August. We were in Oklahoma for a beautiful wedding (Congrats BIG dove and Little Hoya!) and UCO Homecoming. These were two really great events and it was nice to be in the Great State again. It was definitely neat to be on campus during a week that means so much to students, faculty/staff, and alumni. I really enjoyed visiting with people and seeing how the campus has changed in just a few short months. I am so very proud to be a UCO Alumni and hope that I can give back what it has given to me. I also had the honor of crowning my Little Sister in my sorority, Meredith Carrick, as the 2008 Homecoming Queen. She is well deserving and I am so proud to call her my sister and one of my very best friends. Congrats again, Little! :)
And now, here we are, back in Nebraska! We've been back for about a week and a half now, and I feel as if I am in a different place than I was prior to my visit back to Oklahoma. While I was in Oklahoma, something really hit me. I think it was the reality that my life there is really over. Now, be very careful when you read this portion of the post, because it is not meant to be negative at all. Rather, that I am realizing that I am exactly where God wants me to be. I am in a place where He can work on me and through me. I am meant to be here in order to become a better daughter, sister, friend, student, teacher, leader, and woman. While I was in Oklahoma, I had the chance to visit people and be in an environment that I am so very comfortable in; however, something came over me that made me realize Nebraska IS where I need to be at this moment in my life. While ALL of my friends were so kind to allow me to stay with them and be apart of their daily routines, I realized that life goes on whether I am there or not. If you know me well, it is very difficult for me to sit still... everyday must come with a purpose. During those 11 days, I didn't have much of a purpose, besides relaxing. :) But, that was very hard... towards the end of the week, I was very anxious about getting back to Lincoln. Being in a place where I felt so familiar, yet out of place helped me make sense of all that is going on in my life. UCO is still going strong, my friends are still doing great things, and my family is well put together, even without me being there. It has been hard letting go of those very important parts of my life, yet it is at this moment that I am so thankful for my strong relationships with people and that we are able to stay connected through the phone and internet. I have realized that I cannot be there, but that if I did something right, my presence will still be there... within the things and the people I love most. So, here we go... Living in the Present.
It is truly my hope to head back to Oklahoma and bring back all that I have learned in Nebraska... about a culture, myself, and my academic discipline. I can't wait to do that, but for now, I live in Nebraska and this is my home until then. As I was facing my first week back, I realized how blessed I am to be earning a higher degree at the cost of nothing. I realized how blessed I am to have my sorority sister and best friend from college by my side while doing it all. More importantly, I realized how blessed I am to have people in Oklahoma, Ohio, DC, Virginia, Texas, Georgia and now Nebraska supporting me as I pursue my dreams. So, instead of counting down the days until I get back to Oklahoma, I am going to count my blessings in the now. I am going to Live in the Present, and be thankful for what I have today. Everyday is a new day and with each day, I am able to influence others while learning something new! This has been my prayer this week, so I ask that you pray that for me this week and weeks to come.
May we ALL live in the present,
Cyndi
Since the last time I posted, grad school definitely hit me right smack dab in the face. As noted in my previous posting, I completed my first and only midterm of the semester. I am pretty pleased with my grade; however, I know that I can do better. So, I am prepping for the final now, especially because I am aware of what a good midterm/final should look like. A couple weeks ago, I conducted my very first three hour presentation. Yes, you read correctly... a THREE hour presentation. My partner, Crystal, and I had to teach a class period on hiring. I was very nervous about this presentation due to my LACK of knowledge in hiring employees to positions within a company. Of course, we were given material to study prior to the presentation, but it was intimidating to teach management professionals something that they already knew through experience from a text book standpoint. However, everything turned out really great and really boosted my self confidence! There was a ton of discussion going on with everyone sharing their experiences with the class and participating in the different activties we presented. We ended up with a perfect score, so I am pleased and glad that is all over! That same week, I had another presentation as well as a teaching observation paper and syllabus project due! Luckily, my second presentation was only 15 minutes, so it was a breeze after the first presentation. I had a wonderful partner, Cynthia, who was so great to work with and it was nice getting to know another person in my class. I really enjoyed writing my teaching observation paper because it allowed me to really apply what I have been learning in class to a specific individual and classroom situation. However, my favorite part of that crazy week was working on the syllabus project. It was really a lot of work, but it was neat to see how fun it can become by putting in a little creativity. PLUS, it was nice to see "Dr. Cyndi Munson" on a piece of paper, even if it was fake. :) Looking back, I am wondering how in the world I survived that week? WHEW!
As Ali posted below, we both had the opportunity to travel back to Oklahoma for about 11 days. Just as everyone else was wondering, I am sure you are wondering how we were able to get away for THAT LONG. Well, I'll tell you quickly. We left on a Thursday evening, giving us the entire weekend, plus Fall Break. Since Ali and I only work and go to class Tuesday through Thursday, we only missed two days of work and two classes. Seeing as how we needed to be in Oklahoma for two weekends back-to-back, it didn't make much sense for us to travel back to Nebraska for a day and a half. We have had these dates planned prior to entering graduate school, so we were well prepared and notified everyone in August. We were in Oklahoma for a beautiful wedding (Congrats BIG dove and Little Hoya!) and UCO Homecoming. These were two really great events and it was nice to be in the Great State again. It was definitely neat to be on campus during a week that means so much to students, faculty/staff, and alumni. I really enjoyed visiting with people and seeing how the campus has changed in just a few short months. I am so very proud to be a UCO Alumni and hope that I can give back what it has given to me. I also had the honor of crowning my Little Sister in my sorority, Meredith Carrick, as the 2008 Homecoming Queen. She is well deserving and I am so proud to call her my sister and one of my very best friends. Congrats again, Little! :)
And now, here we are, back in Nebraska! We've been back for about a week and a half now, and I feel as if I am in a different place than I was prior to my visit back to Oklahoma. While I was in Oklahoma, something really hit me. I think it was the reality that my life there is really over. Now, be very careful when you read this portion of the post, because it is not meant to be negative at all. Rather, that I am realizing that I am exactly where God wants me to be. I am in a place where He can work on me and through me. I am meant to be here in order to become a better daughter, sister, friend, student, teacher, leader, and woman. While I was in Oklahoma, I had the chance to visit people and be in an environment that I am so very comfortable in; however, something came over me that made me realize Nebraska IS where I need to be at this moment in my life. While ALL of my friends were so kind to allow me to stay with them and be apart of their daily routines, I realized that life goes on whether I am there or not. If you know me well, it is very difficult for me to sit still... everyday must come with a purpose. During those 11 days, I didn't have much of a purpose, besides relaxing. :) But, that was very hard... towards the end of the week, I was very anxious about getting back to Lincoln. Being in a place where I felt so familiar, yet out of place helped me make sense of all that is going on in my life. UCO is still going strong, my friends are still doing great things, and my family is well put together, even without me being there. It has been hard letting go of those very important parts of my life, yet it is at this moment that I am so thankful for my strong relationships with people and that we are able to stay connected through the phone and internet. I have realized that I cannot be there, but that if I did something right, my presence will still be there... within the things and the people I love most. So, here we go... Living in the Present.
It is truly my hope to head back to Oklahoma and bring back all that I have learned in Nebraska... about a culture, myself, and my academic discipline. I can't wait to do that, but for now, I live in Nebraska and this is my home until then. As I was facing my first week back, I realized how blessed I am to be earning a higher degree at the cost of nothing. I realized how blessed I am to have my sorority sister and best friend from college by my side while doing it all. More importantly, I realized how blessed I am to have people in Oklahoma, Ohio, DC, Virginia, Texas, Georgia and now Nebraska supporting me as I pursue my dreams. So, instead of counting down the days until I get back to Oklahoma, I am going to count my blessings in the now. I am going to Live in the Present, and be thankful for what I have today. Everyday is a new day and with each day, I am able to influence others while learning something new! This has been my prayer this week, so I ask that you pray that for me this week and weeks to come.
May we ALL live in the present,
Cyndi
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Good ol OK
Cyndi and I had an amazing week in Oklahoma and really enjoyed the semi-warm weather! It was such a treat to be able to go home for a good friend's wedding (congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Knoblock) and stay through UCO's homecoming festivities. By the way, the homecoming activities ended with the crowning of the 2008 Homecoming Queen-Miss Meredith Carrick, Cyndi's Lil Sis.
An0ther great thing that happened while I was home is that all of my cousins who were serving overseas in Operation Iraqi Freedom have returned home safely to their families. Thank goodness! I had the pleasure of visiting both of my Grandma's and seeing aunts, uncles, cousins, and old friends but sadly was not able to visit everyone I wanted to. If I didn't get to visit you this week please accept my sincere apologies and feel free to come visit me in Nebraska :)
So much has happened with my friends and family in the short time i've been gone and I know so much will continue to happen. I realize that life goes on without me but it has been an abrupt awakening. Babies are born and children I love are getting older and growing up, friends are graduating, breaking up, and starting new relationships. I though this move would be an easy one because moving has been inevitable all my life. Every three years it's time to pack up and move to a new duty station with my family but this time it was my choice to leave. Was it the right choice? Yes, I think so. I believe whole-heartedly that this is exactly where God wants me and i'm doing what He wants me to do. I have to believe that my friends and family will still be my friends and family even though they are growing and continuing to live their lives. I hope that I can maintain those relationships that are most important to me.
It is currently 47 degrees in the city of lincoln and will be in the 20's when I wake up for work tomorrow. So enjoy your bright sunny days down south and think of Cyn and I...
If you're praying for us as we're here in Nebraska please pray that we find a church home soon and that we find steady Christian fellowship that we are longing for.
Love you all!
Ali
An0ther great thing that happened while I was home is that all of my cousins who were serving overseas in Operation Iraqi Freedom have returned home safely to their families. Thank goodness! I had the pleasure of visiting both of my Grandma's and seeing aunts, uncles, cousins, and old friends but sadly was not able to visit everyone I wanted to. If I didn't get to visit you this week please accept my sincere apologies and feel free to come visit me in Nebraska :)
So much has happened with my friends and family in the short time i've been gone and I know so much will continue to happen. I realize that life goes on without me but it has been an abrupt awakening. Babies are born and children I love are getting older and growing up, friends are graduating, breaking up, and starting new relationships. I though this move would be an easy one because moving has been inevitable all my life. Every three years it's time to pack up and move to a new duty station with my family but this time it was my choice to leave. Was it the right choice? Yes, I think so. I believe whole-heartedly that this is exactly where God wants me and i'm doing what He wants me to do. I have to believe that my friends and family will still be my friends and family even though they are growing and continuing to live their lives. I hope that I can maintain those relationships that are most important to me.
It is currently 47 degrees in the city of lincoln and will be in the 20's when I wake up for work tomorrow. So enjoy your bright sunny days down south and think of Cyn and I...
If you're praying for us as we're here in Nebraska please pray that we find a church home soon and that we find steady Christian fellowship that we are longing for.
Love you all!
Ali
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Today and Tomorrow
Well folks, today is my birthday. Or as Amanda Mahurin would say "IT"S MY BIRFDAY!!!" I loved all the phone calls, texts, and facebook messages wishing me a great day but I am counting down the days until I can celebrate with you all in person again (19 months til Cyn and I head home again). Speaking of seeing everyone...we're making a trip home this weekend! This weekend is a very special wedding that we will be attending and the following week is homecoming when Cyndi will pass on her crown to another deserving woman. In light of all the exciting events taking place and the fact that fall break is Monday and Tuesday, we will be staying the whole week so get excited!
Before I go I have to tell you what happened to me yesterday. I almost died. Don't go thinking I stubbed my toe and the pain was so excruciating I wanted to die. NO. I ALMOST DIED. Sheena, David, and I were walking to our cars after we got out of class. It was raining and cold outside so the roads were slick. As we are walking across the street this car comes flying down the street right at us and is not making any attempt to slow down. As it gets pretty close the driver hits the breaks suddenly but is not stopping well because of the slick roads so David nudges me out of the way with no regard to his own life! Thank you David Belieu, it is because of you that I am alive today.
Before I go I have to tell you what happened to me yesterday. I almost died. Don't go thinking I stubbed my toe and the pain was so excruciating I wanted to die. NO. I ALMOST DIED. Sheena, David, and I were walking to our cars after we got out of class. It was raining and cold outside so the roads were slick. As we are walking across the street this car comes flying down the street right at us and is not making any attempt to slow down. As it gets pretty close the driver hits the breaks suddenly but is not stopping well because of the slick roads so David nudges me out of the way with no regard to his own life! Thank you David Belieu, it is because of you that I am alive today.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Nebraska v. Mizzou
We had our first visitors this weekend! Ben and Taylor came to visit and go to the Mizzou game with Cyndi and me. On Friday we took a self-guided tear of Memorial Stadium and got to go where the general public is not allowed :) Ben, Taylor, and I checked out the field and even explored the Mizzou and Nebraska locker rooms. Well, I didn't go in the Nebraska locker room-there were boys in there. But it was a great time anyway.
We had our first tailgating experience and it was a great one. We spent all day Saturday with a few wrestlers and about 75 of their closest friends in their backyard! I was really impressed how the Husker fans got along with the Mizzou fans that dropped by until one guy stole a Mizzou fan's flag and burned it! They had a friendly wrestling match then they were friends again and the Mizzou fan took his crispy flag home with him haha.
When we got to the game and finally found our seats we were surrounded my family of the Missouri players because one of Ben's friends who plays for Mizzou graciously donated some tickets for us to enjoy the game. We were seated about 4 people to the left of Chase Daniel's parents and it was truly heartwarming to see how proud they were of their son. The crowd broke out into chant's such as "Chase for Heisman" and the pride was evident in his dad's face. While the rest of the crowd was chanting "Chase for Heisman," Cyndi was chanting "Chase for Cyndi." I hope his parent's heard and put in a good recommendation. :)
After the game we got finally got some legendary DeLeon's burritos and mourned the loss for the Huskers.
After putting off readings and homework the entire weekend, Cyndi and I spent ALL DAY today at a local coffee shop called the Blend (if you're ever in Lincoln PLEASE stop by, they have the friendliest staff and delicious vanilla chai lattes) reading journal articles and preparing outlines for class. Grad school takes much more time than we think it should.
As I type I am enjoying the amazing smell of Cyndi's cooking in the Kitchen. You see, we take turns cooking for each other every Monday night because it is the only night all three of us are home together and it gives us the opportunity to practice our culinary skills on each other. Today is Cyndi's turn and she is making burgers, fries, and corn on the cob yum!
Dinner is almost ready so talk to you soon.
Ali
We had our first tailgating experience and it was a great one. We spent all day Saturday with a few wrestlers and about 75 of their closest friends in their backyard! I was really impressed how the Husker fans got along with the Mizzou fans that dropped by until one guy stole a Mizzou fan's flag and burned it! They had a friendly wrestling match then they were friends again and the Mizzou fan took his crispy flag home with him haha.
When we got to the game and finally found our seats we were surrounded my family of the Missouri players because one of Ben's friends who plays for Mizzou graciously donated some tickets for us to enjoy the game. We were seated about 4 people to the left of Chase Daniel's parents and it was truly heartwarming to see how proud they were of their son. The crowd broke out into chant's such as "Chase for Heisman" and the pride was evident in his dad's face. While the rest of the crowd was chanting "Chase for Heisman," Cyndi was chanting "Chase for Cyndi." I hope his parent's heard and put in a good recommendation. :)
After the game we got finally got some legendary DeLeon's burritos and mourned the loss for the Huskers.
After putting off readings and homework the entire weekend, Cyndi and I spent ALL DAY today at a local coffee shop called the Blend (if you're ever in Lincoln PLEASE stop by, they have the friendliest staff and delicious vanilla chai lattes) reading journal articles and preparing outlines for class. Grad school takes much more time than we think it should.
As I type I am enjoying the amazing smell of Cyndi's cooking in the Kitchen. You see, we take turns cooking for each other every Monday night because it is the only night all three of us are home together and it gives us the opportunity to practice our culinary skills on each other. Today is Cyndi's turn and she is making burgers, fries, and corn on the cob yum!
Dinner is almost ready so talk to you soon.
Ali
Jane.
Jane is my inspiration.
She is a 41-year-old PhD student in my program and I am so thankful to have met her. When I first saw her in class, I was very intimidated. She is incredibly intelligent with tons of experiences. When she began discussion in class one day, I sat back in my chair thinking, "What the heck am I doing here? I am not nearly at the level that she is." Then, I realized I could learn so much from her. Since then, her and I have created a study group with one other girl in my class, Rachel. It has been a wonderful experience.
Last night, Jane invited the both of us to her home for dinner and studying. Unfortunately, not a lot of studying occured, but I am thankful for what happened instead. We spent three hours enjoying yummy Mexican food, while talking about our families, school, our dreams, and the issues that are going on in the world. Jane works for a bank in Lincoln as a manager, so she has a ton of experience with working with people and helping organizations grow. So, it is interesting hearing her perspective on leadership. She has a great interest in coaching and mentoring which is great, because I feel like I can learn so much from her. She has such a warm heart and was so gracious to open up her home and heart to me. I'll tell you why this is important to me.
I have never had difficulty meeting new people and building friendships, but in graduate school, it is just different. You are not always surrounded by people that are your age and living your lifestyle as you do in your undergraduate years. Also, graduate school lacks opportunities to meet people such as Greek Life, student government, academic organizations, etc. Instead, it is literally about reaching out to people in your classes. Of course, you can find graduate student organizations, but with a hefty academic schedule it is difficult to even consider getting yourself involved with something else. So, as I sat in class during the first couple of days, I thought to myself, "Wow. I don't have anything in common with these people." Almost everyone is pursuing their PhD, they have full time jobs, they are married, and they have children. FYI: I am none of those above things. Instead, I am pursuing my Master's degree, I am a graduate assistant, I am single, and I have no children.
However, as you sit in class and begin to listen to everyone's life experiences, it becomes clear that a lot of your experiences are different, but many of them are alike. The same with interests. Number one, we all have the same interest in what we are studying. Number two, we want to better our lives and the lives of others. Number three, we are all looking to build relationships with others. Once I started to realize that, I decided I should reach out to those in my class. I want to be honest with you though, it was not easy. The intimidation factor is a huge deal. But, what I learned is that the younger students are intimidated by the older students and the older students are intimidated by the younger students. I am glad that Jane and I have broken that barrier.
Now, those of you that are interested in graduate school, please do not be discouraged from this message. Instead, be encouraged. Be encouraged that I have given you an insight on what you will experience when thinking about meeting new people and building new relationships, especially if you plan to go to school out of state. My greatest piece of advice is to not go into graduate school with the picture perfect person that you will become great friends with. The beauty of this kind of opportunity is that you will be able to see how you can build relationships with people that are all ages, all genders, and of all different backgrounds. The purpose of graduate school is to learn about yourself and learn about others and how that will ultimately impact society. At all times, be true to yourself while learning as much as you can.
After being in school for almost two months, this has been my most difficult struggle. I have been missing my family and friends, thinking that I will never meet anyone like them. At this point, I still believe that I will never meet anyone like those that I love so much back home; however, I know that I can and will meet some of the most incredible people in the world that will help me along this journey. Support is important to me and I am starting to feel like I am finding it here. It is about taking the risk of reaching out, showing the world who you are, and of course, letting those "graduate school strangers" in.
No matter where you are, may you reach out to all people, for you never know whose life you will impact or who will impact yours.
Cyndi
She is a 41-year-old PhD student in my program and I am so thankful to have met her. When I first saw her in class, I was very intimidated. She is incredibly intelligent with tons of experiences. When she began discussion in class one day, I sat back in my chair thinking, "What the heck am I doing here? I am not nearly at the level that she is." Then, I realized I could learn so much from her. Since then, her and I have created a study group with one other girl in my class, Rachel. It has been a wonderful experience.
Last night, Jane invited the both of us to her home for dinner and studying. Unfortunately, not a lot of studying occured, but I am thankful for what happened instead. We spent three hours enjoying yummy Mexican food, while talking about our families, school, our dreams, and the issues that are going on in the world. Jane works for a bank in Lincoln as a manager, so she has a ton of experience with working with people and helping organizations grow. So, it is interesting hearing her perspective on leadership. She has a great interest in coaching and mentoring which is great, because I feel like I can learn so much from her. She has such a warm heart and was so gracious to open up her home and heart to me. I'll tell you why this is important to me.
I have never had difficulty meeting new people and building friendships, but in graduate school, it is just different. You are not always surrounded by people that are your age and living your lifestyle as you do in your undergraduate years. Also, graduate school lacks opportunities to meet people such as Greek Life, student government, academic organizations, etc. Instead, it is literally about reaching out to people in your classes. Of course, you can find graduate student organizations, but with a hefty academic schedule it is difficult to even consider getting yourself involved with something else. So, as I sat in class during the first couple of days, I thought to myself, "Wow. I don't have anything in common with these people." Almost everyone is pursuing their PhD, they have full time jobs, they are married, and they have children. FYI: I am none of those above things. Instead, I am pursuing my Master's degree, I am a graduate assistant, I am single, and I have no children.
However, as you sit in class and begin to listen to everyone's life experiences, it becomes clear that a lot of your experiences are different, but many of them are alike. The same with interests. Number one, we all have the same interest in what we are studying. Number two, we want to better our lives and the lives of others. Number three, we are all looking to build relationships with others. Once I started to realize that, I decided I should reach out to those in my class. I want to be honest with you though, it was not easy. The intimidation factor is a huge deal. But, what I learned is that the younger students are intimidated by the older students and the older students are intimidated by the younger students. I am glad that Jane and I have broken that barrier.
Now, those of you that are interested in graduate school, please do not be discouraged from this message. Instead, be encouraged. Be encouraged that I have given you an insight on what you will experience when thinking about meeting new people and building new relationships, especially if you plan to go to school out of state. My greatest piece of advice is to not go into graduate school with the picture perfect person that you will become great friends with. The beauty of this kind of opportunity is that you will be able to see how you can build relationships with people that are all ages, all genders, and of all different backgrounds. The purpose of graduate school is to learn about yourself and learn about others and how that will ultimately impact society. At all times, be true to yourself while learning as much as you can.
After being in school for almost two months, this has been my most difficult struggle. I have been missing my family and friends, thinking that I will never meet anyone like them. At this point, I still believe that I will never meet anyone like those that I love so much back home; however, I know that I can and will meet some of the most incredible people in the world that will help me along this journey. Support is important to me and I am starting to feel like I am finding it here. It is about taking the risk of reaching out, showing the world who you are, and of course, letting those "graduate school strangers" in.
No matter where you are, may you reach out to all people, for you never know whose life you will impact or who will impact yours.
Cyndi
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
A Quick Hello!
Well, I have never been much of a "blogger", but I have been inspired by other pages. So, thank you Daina and Jeff and April and Lane. I think this is a fun way to stay in touch with everyone.
Ali and I are really enjoying our time in Nebraska and in graduate school, so we want to share with everyone what we are up to, things that we are feeling, and what we are learning as we continue on in our journey. So, hello and welcome! :)
We started the page this morning while we had the morning off. We were able to take off because we worked events on Friday evening, The 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off and the Campus Night Life Rock the Vote event. We had so much fun and met some new friends along the way. In case you didn't know, Ali and I both work as Graduate Assistants in the Student Involvement Office. We are under the same supervisor; however, we work on different campuses. The University of Nebraska has two campuses (yes, it is THAT big and THAT confusing). So, I work on East Campus (Ag, Education and Science colleges and buildings) and Ali works on City Campus (Main campus - most majors). Anyway, our first big events were last Friday and they were both very successful!
As Ali stated earlier, we are slowly but surely finding our way around Lincoln. I know that we have only lived here for about a month and a half (can you believe it is October??), but some days it feels like we have lived here forever. Especially now, because (as Ali stated)we are well aware of places such as Wal-Mart, Target, Hobby Lobby and YESSSSS, Eileen's Cookies!:) We are still on the look out for yummy restaurants and fun places to shop, but I am sure that will come with time and once we slow down a little bit with school and work (IF, that ever happens).
Although Oklahoma is my first and only love, I have been trying to become somewhat of a local. I have gone to a couple Husker games (SO AMAZING - it is addicting) and have traveled down to the Farmer's Market (SUPER fun). The weather is so nice here right now and I am keeping my fingers crossed that the winter delays its arrival as long as possible - we all know how much I highly dislike the cold weather! Other than that, Nebraska is much like Oklahoma. The people here are so genuine and kind, this city is huge but has a small town feel, and of course, the love of football is outrageous, but fun! :) So, although I am six and a half hours away, I sometimes feel as if I am right at home.
I figured I would also give you all a little update on SCHOOL... you know, the reason we are here! Ali and I are both working on our Master's degrees, but we are pursuing different programs. Everyone finds it so interesting that we ended up in the same place, unplanned. Even we sometimes can't believe this all happened, but we are very thankful. Ali is in the Education Administration program with an emphasis in Student Affairs. She is also apart of their internship program where she is gauranteed an assistantship within Student Affairs her first year, summer, and second year as a Student Affairs student. She is very blessed. I am in the AgLEC (Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication - nothing to do with Ag) program where I am purusing my Master's degree in Leadership Education with an emphasis in Development. I was blessed with my assistantship by the grace of God. I have plans to stick with my assistantship until I complete my program while searching for opportunities to teach. I am currently enrolled in three courses which is nine hours and considered full time. Seems light, huh? Not so much. I am reading more now than I ever did, even as a Political Science major. However, I am learning so many new things and revisiting a lot of old ideas, thanks to my Leadership minor. My favorite class is Advanced Teaching Methods. My professor is absolutely amazing and inspires me to become a great educator no matter what setting it may be in. He really emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and helping individuals learn, rather than telling them what I know. I appreciate all of that. Every Thursday, I walk out of that classroom reenergized and ready to take on my mission to teach leadership to young girls. I just can't wait! Today, I completed my first and only midterm of the semester. Let's keep our fingers crossed that I did okay. I was nervous because it covered a lot of material and the writing that was expected was different than what I am used to. But, I know that all will turn out well... I hope! :)
I would like to share just a couple other exciting things that have happened before I head out. I have been given an exciting opportunitiy to volunteer for Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Council. I will be teaching an afterschool leadership program at Lefler Middle School, a local middle school, every Friday afternoon to about 15 girls in grades 6 through 8. As many of you know, this is similar to what I did last semester for the Western Oklahoma Council in Oklahoma City with elementary and high school girls. I am excited to work with middle school students because this will increase my experience working with young people. I am excited! Please pray for me. Please pray that I be a light to these young girls as they struggle with battles that we all faced as young students and that I can be a mentor, someone they can look up to as they try to find answers to everyday questions. Also, please pray that I can create a healthy relationship with them that will last longer than the academic year. This type of work has been my dream and I am so blessed to be given the opportunity. And, secondly, Ali and I purchased a Nintendo wii and Rock Band wii. Yes, we know, a bit ridiculous, but we couldn't resist. There are some days when we just want something to do, like play a game. So, we agreed to purchase this crazy game system. But, it has been so much fun and I am already addicted (I was actually addicted way before I even owned one)!
Well, I think that was longer than "A Quick Hello", but once I started typing, I felt like I had so much more to share. I know I have even more to share, but I will save it for later.
I miss you all dearly! I love you all even more! I will see you all soon! And, as always...
GO BIG RED!
Cyndi
Ali and I are really enjoying our time in Nebraska and in graduate school, so we want to share with everyone what we are up to, things that we are feeling, and what we are learning as we continue on in our journey. So, hello and welcome! :)
We started the page this morning while we had the morning off. We were able to take off because we worked events on Friday evening, The 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off and the Campus Night Life Rock the Vote event. We had so much fun and met some new friends along the way. In case you didn't know, Ali and I both work as Graduate Assistants in the Student Involvement Office. We are under the same supervisor; however, we work on different campuses. The University of Nebraska has two campuses (yes, it is THAT big and THAT confusing). So, I work on East Campus (Ag, Education and Science colleges and buildings) and Ali works on City Campus (Main campus - most majors). Anyway, our first big events were last Friday and they were both very successful!
As Ali stated earlier, we are slowly but surely finding our way around Lincoln. I know that we have only lived here for about a month and a half (can you believe it is October??), but some days it feels like we have lived here forever. Especially now, because (as Ali stated)we are well aware of places such as Wal-Mart, Target, Hobby Lobby and YESSSSS, Eileen's Cookies!:) We are still on the look out for yummy restaurants and fun places to shop, but I am sure that will come with time and once we slow down a little bit with school and work (IF, that ever happens).
Although Oklahoma is my first and only love, I have been trying to become somewhat of a local. I have gone to a couple Husker games (SO AMAZING - it is addicting) and have traveled down to the Farmer's Market (SUPER fun). The weather is so nice here right now and I am keeping my fingers crossed that the winter delays its arrival as long as possible - we all know how much I highly dislike the cold weather! Other than that, Nebraska is much like Oklahoma. The people here are so genuine and kind, this city is huge but has a small town feel, and of course, the love of football is outrageous, but fun! :) So, although I am six and a half hours away, I sometimes feel as if I am right at home.
I figured I would also give you all a little update on SCHOOL... you know, the reason we are here! Ali and I are both working on our Master's degrees, but we are pursuing different programs. Everyone finds it so interesting that we ended up in the same place, unplanned. Even we sometimes can't believe this all happened, but we are very thankful. Ali is in the Education Administration program with an emphasis in Student Affairs. She is also apart of their internship program where she is gauranteed an assistantship within Student Affairs her first year, summer, and second year as a Student Affairs student. She is very blessed. I am in the AgLEC (Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication - nothing to do with Ag) program where I am purusing my Master's degree in Leadership Education with an emphasis in Development. I was blessed with my assistantship by the grace of God. I have plans to stick with my assistantship until I complete my program while searching for opportunities to teach. I am currently enrolled in three courses which is nine hours and considered full time. Seems light, huh? Not so much. I am reading more now than I ever did, even as a Political Science major. However, I am learning so many new things and revisiting a lot of old ideas, thanks to my Leadership minor. My favorite class is Advanced Teaching Methods. My professor is absolutely amazing and inspires me to become a great educator no matter what setting it may be in. He really emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and helping individuals learn, rather than telling them what I know. I appreciate all of that. Every Thursday, I walk out of that classroom reenergized and ready to take on my mission to teach leadership to young girls. I just can't wait! Today, I completed my first and only midterm of the semester. Let's keep our fingers crossed that I did okay. I was nervous because it covered a lot of material and the writing that was expected was different than what I am used to. But, I know that all will turn out well... I hope! :)
I would like to share just a couple other exciting things that have happened before I head out. I have been given an exciting opportunitiy to volunteer for Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Council. I will be teaching an afterschool leadership program at Lefler Middle School, a local middle school, every Friday afternoon to about 15 girls in grades 6 through 8. As many of you know, this is similar to what I did last semester for the Western Oklahoma Council in Oklahoma City with elementary and high school girls. I am excited to work with middle school students because this will increase my experience working with young people. I am excited! Please pray for me. Please pray that I be a light to these young girls as they struggle with battles that we all faced as young students and that I can be a mentor, someone they can look up to as they try to find answers to everyday questions. Also, please pray that I can create a healthy relationship with them that will last longer than the academic year. This type of work has been my dream and I am so blessed to be given the opportunity. And, secondly, Ali and I purchased a Nintendo wii and Rock Band wii. Yes, we know, a bit ridiculous, but we couldn't resist. There are some days when we just want something to do, like play a game. So, we agreed to purchase this crazy game system. But, it has been so much fun and I am already addicted (I was actually addicted way before I even owned one)!
Well, I think that was longer than "A Quick Hello", but once I started typing, I felt like I had so much more to share. I know I have even more to share, but I will save it for later.
I miss you all dearly! I love you all even more! I will see you all soon! And, as always...
GO BIG RED!
Cyndi
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