Finding My way

“We’re proud to be a cougar ’cause a cougar’s what we are!” I love the cougars! Now may be a proper time to ask, “Steph, why in the world are you cheering for another mascot? Don’t you have any pride in the Rockets at all?!” My only response could possibly be, “I have a CAACURH love.”

This weekend marks my second trip to the regional conference for the Central Atlantic Affiliate for College and University Residence Halls. In just over an hour, eight students and emerging leaders will board a van with our wonderful advisors and depart for the University of Pittsburgh. There, we will represent The University of Toledo and bring Rocket pride to schools from seven states. The UT community can be proud to know it is sending a diverse group of students with so much talent to show the region exactly what being a Rocket means. Our fearless leader, fellow University Journalist and the Resident Student Association’s National Communications Coordinator Rosaline Cordova has been working dilligently to prepare a strong group comprised of resident advisers (RAs), Hall Council representatives, a National Residence Hall Honorary Representative, and yours truly, RSA president.

Society’s connotation of conferences projects an all-business-no-fun-straight-faced-shirt-and-tie experience filled strictly with breakout sessions. While CAACURH will arm us with new and innovative ways of thinking to continually develop UT’s Residence Life through programming sessions, we will partake in different sorts of activities. CAACURH is a unique experience that bonds energy, screaming, and spirit with professional development and learning. We will show UT pride by dressing in superhero capes tomorrow (which, I hope, can earn us spirit points and hopefully start us  on a journey to winning an award for most spirited delegation.) We will also be shouting with pride for the cougars, CAACURH’s mascot.

I hate to steal thunder from Rosaline, but I could not hold back from writing about my anticipation for this weekend. I hope she can give the blogosphere a review of our experiences post-conference when we return with an unprecedented wealth of knowledge and new ways of thinking, along with stories to correspond with the energy of the weekend.

The moral of our story? Please don’t hate me for cheering for another mascot. I only want to show CAACURH my pride. After all, “cougars got your back!”

Time: 1:51 AM.

Status: Wide awake, laptop open, fingers poised and typing.

I feel it necessary to share my thoughts with the world. The coherence of these thoughts and experiences may be faulty, as 2 AM rapidly approaches. What time to I have class in the morning? That’s right, 8:00.

For the second straight evening,  I find myself wide awake into the wee hours of the morning. My roommate is awake as well, though her actions truly reflect her sleep/lack of sanity. The image of the stereotypical college student concots itself in my head. I see one who delays her studies and other tasks for weeks and weeks, until her deadline is merely hours away. Commence mad rush to finish everything in one night, complete with the sleep-deprived day to follow.

I fully expected to find several versions of this college student synonomous with procrastination everywhere at UT. Suprisingly, I have been surrounded by industrious and dilligent students thus far in my collegiate career. I realized lately that the environment surrounding a person truly effects his/her habits. My roommate Kaylee has demonstrated her dilligence several times over. She is productive to a fault, with impeccable organization. Her side of the room is always spotless, and her assignments are always completed on time, usally early.

Seeing this dedication, I can’t help but adjust my ways. Just last week my side of the room looked awful. I was about ready to call FEMA and enlist some hurricane disaster relief. After days of seeing Kaylee’s organization, I struck a burst of energy and completely organized my side of the room. Unfortunately, it was on a night when I couldn’t sleep, so it was a 2 AM cleaning spree. I don’t think Kaylee was all that thrilled. I feel so much more functional now.

My attitude and demeanor have improved drastically since I followed the example of my roomate. I always worked hard before, but now my hard work translates into efficiency. I have the best roommate ever.

Time: 2:18 AM.

Status: Accomplished. Thanks, roomie.

Did you spot any UT students walking around with unfamiliar bright green Greek letters on their shirts today? Maybe you saw those students making odd hand gestures at each other. The answer is no, there is not a new fraternity/sorority on campus.

Sophomore honor society Lambda Sigma is a national organization. Our chapter at The University of Toledo consists of sixteen members, all of whom are in the top ten percent of the sophomore class. Together, we form the Alpha Psi chapter.

While Lambda Sigma stands on four pillars of leadership, scholarship, fellowship, and service, the Alpha Psi chapter has added another unoffical pillar–energy. Each member enthusiastically supports any type of endeavor within the group, whether that means taking part in a philanthropy walk for the Sunshine Children’s Home, creating social events to foster fellowship, or taking on the challenge to increase the member count, all involved willingly jump in immediately. No one person ever needs to shoulder all the responsibility, as all hold themselves accountable for the success of the group.

Lambda Sigma’s Alpha Psi chapter strongly dedicates itself to serving the Toledo community, the University included. At the same time, all involved grow and form strong bonds of fellowship with one another strong enough to create the “Lambda Llama” hand signal. If you are a second-year student interested in serving the community and building new friendships, contact me by leaving a comment on this post or e-mail president Heather Griffin at heather.griffin@rockets.utoledo.edu. I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a good llama?

How many people out there can say they have ridden a scooter and bicycle around their room? I just became one of them. If my RA is reading this, I apologize. My new residence hall room in Ottawa House West is amazing!

Three of my closest friends and I share a spacious suite in UT’s newest residence hall, which was opened in 2004. We have two bedrooms, a common area, and a bathroom. Our common area comes complete with a couch and armchair, plus shelves we use as a TV stand. All of our furniture is new. It doesn’t get much better than this!

That being said, I must be honest and say I miss living in the Academic House. I have come to believe that a college student’s first residence hall room will always be his/her home while experiencing college life. The community we built on the second floor of A-House last year was incredible. Aileen, our resident advisor, welcomed all the girls on the floor and encouraged us to get to know one another. Some of the best memories I have made so far at UT were with the girls I bonded with at A-House.

While I miss living in the Academic House, it is only fair that I step aside and let a new community of residents experience the wonders it has to offer. I have been priveleged enough to meet and spend time with many of the girls that live in the rooms in which I spent so much of my time last year. They are all so wonderful! They have already built an exceptionally strong community in their halls and have formed inseperable bonds. Seeing this is truly a pleasure for me.

Living on campus provides students with an unforgettable experience. I encourage all students to take advantage of residential living at UT. Who knows, you could even have the space to ride a scooter (with wheels that light up, of course) into your friend’s room!

Rocket Country is undoubtedly one of my favorite places in the whole wide world.

Our community is called home by nearly 23,000 students. One may think it takes great difficulty to stand out in such a large population. It’s surprising what little it takes to make someone notice a person.

Every year, the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) sponsors an event called “Campus Clean-Up,” where NRHH members and other volunteers spend hours collecting trash and recyclable items and properly disposing them. One member of the UT community, however, has chosen to make this event a daily routine. This certainly stood out to me.

James Zarycki, a second-year student, has incredible pride in the University. Also known as JT, he works with me as a tour guide and has become a great friend. I always look to him as a source of UT facts and trivia. Along with his pride and passion for The University of Toledo, JT carries an attitude of responsibility to keep campus as it should be–beautiful and clean. He has done this by enacting his own daily version of Campus Clean-Up by picking up trash and recyclable items on campus and putting them in their proper containers. While this may seem like a small step, it has already begun to spread–to me, that is. JT’s effort to take a second to go out of his way and pick up a trash item has caused me to begin doing the same. Hopefully, I can use this venue to spread the same attitude to others through the web.

Kudos, JT! Let’s keep UT beautiful!

A seven-year-old version of me would be shocked at who I have become. Growing up, I refused to wear dresses or other “pretty” clothes my female relatives tried to give me. Instead, I opted for the more comfortable but slightly ratty-looking t-shirts and jeans day after day. I attribute my not-so-stylish sense of style to my family life. Raised with two older brothers, all I wanted was to be one of the boys. At the same time, however, part of me longed for that female influence that came with having an older sister. I spent countless hours imagining how cool it would be to have another girl in the house–someone I could follow everywhere and copy all the time. Consequently, every older girl I met became like a hero(ine) to me. One of these girls has managed to make her way back into my life.

Jennifer was just about everything I was not as a child. She was girly, outgoing, and super talkative. We were polar opposites. While I hid behind my mother’s back in crowds, she flaunted her theatrical talents on stage every chance she had. Her parents are my parents’ longtime friends, so our families got together every once in a while to go to dinner or a movie. My family often went to watch Jennifer’s plays, and hers came to several sporting events for my brothers and me. Whenever my mom would tell me we would be going to see one of her plays, I would look forward to it with excitement and anticipation for weeks. Throughout the shows, I was mesmerized by her ability on stage–her ability to stand in front of a crowd and do something she loved. I wanted so badly to be like her, but I was too shy to even say more than a few words to her. When she would emerge from backstage after a show, the most I could say was, “hi,” and “bye.” I admired her as a hero, but only from a safe distance.

I’ve changed pretty dramatically since then. I’m outgoing in just about every sense of the word. (I once began a sentence while talking to some friends with, “I’m not exactly shy,” and they went hysterical with laughter.) Though I wouldn’t call myself a “girly girl,” I no longer refuse to wear feminine clothes like dresses. I’ve become very involved with leadership and community service activities throughout high school and now my first year of college. Now, lightyears away from that shy little girl who could barely utter a greeting, emerges a young intern at the law firm of Javitch, Block & Rathbone, and she is lucky enough to be granted a second chance at friendship with a childhood hero.

Jennifer is now Jen, a 22 year-old graduate of The University of Michigan. A young woman of character and intelligence, she is just as exuberant and outgoing as ever. She has been working for JB&R for years now, and this summer I’ve been lucky enough to join her. She instantly made me feel welcome at work, offering to go to lunch whenever I wanted and answer any questions I might have. We’ve spent time together outside work several times, and I had an absolute blast being with her. What’s more, she has offered me advice on several occasions and been a listening ear in some of the most difficult times I’ve ever known. As summer and my internship near an end, I feel blessed to say I’ve gained a friend in someone who I used to simply gawk at from a safe distance. Jen has helped me feel more confident and at ease with myself. I hope I have gained a friend for life, perhaps the closest thing I have to a big sister.

So much has changed in mine and Jen’s relationship since I was that seven year-old shy girl. She and I have both grown and matured in many ways. Through all these changes and our newfound friendship, one thing remains: I admire her just like that punk of a little kid admired her hero.

I’ve had a moment of pure inspiration–inspiration so strong I’m using the remainder of my lunch period to blog about it. The world must know about this feeling I have… and it all started with an iced mocha. Who knew coffee (with chocolate of course) could be this powerful?

As I make my morning commute into downtown Cleveland each day for my internship, I like to take in all my surroundings unless, heaven forbid, I’m running late and using my rearview mirror to apply lipgloss. Day after day, one spectacle unceasingly grasps my attention: a raging red and mellow yellow sign emblazoned with “Phoenix Coffee,” and day after day I’ve said to myself, “Huh, wonder if that’s any good. I should check it out.” To my own disappointment, day after day I find myself making excuses as to why I “can’t” try it. I came up with everything from break is only ten minutes; I’ll never make it back to work in time to I’d love to go, but aw man that crosswalk signal takes forever at E. 9th and Superior. Today, I stopped the excuses.

I found myself with thirty minutes to spare on my hour long lunch break. I had already taken one lap around the block (right past Phoenix Coffee) and I began to wonder how many times around the block I would make it before passing out from boredom, and perhaps even heat. As I rounded the corner of E. 12th Street and Superior Avenue, I could hear cool mocha calling my name. Curiosity got the best of me, and I made a wager with myself. If the clock on the sign attached to Key Bank read any time under 1:40, I would go. If it was later than 1:40, I would continue the walk of monotony. Sure enough, the digital, er, digits showed 1:39. Just in time. I made a bee line across the street and ventured into the store that I thought was out of reach.

I made my way to the counter, a little hesitant, and asked the barista for an iced mocha lite. With speedy and friendly service, my java creation graced my eager hands. I thanked the gentlman and began my venture out to work. I usually have a hard time drinking something and walking (clumsy describes me fairly accurately), but I couldn’t resist taking that first sip the second my feet hit the concrete pavement. My instant, involuntary respnse was, “Oh my God.” I had discovered heaven in a cup.

Believe it or not, that mocha changed the pace of my entire day. Lately those who know me best have noticed a dull haze around me at all times. Irritable and melcancholy do not begin to describe my mood as of late. But after a few sips of my drink, I returned to work nothing short of chipper. I finished my refreshing caffeinated beverage at my desk, taking note of the quirky message on the bottom of my cup. Where a warning to take caution of the blazing hot coffee the cup may hold would normally appear, this message read, “WARNING: You may encounter unadulterated strong coffee, spontaneous enlightenment, and/or unfettered optimism while drinking this beverage.” They weren’t kidding.

As if unadulterated coffee awesomeness wasn’t enough to make Phoenix Coffee my new favorite break spot, the franchise has made movements toward sustainability. Their cups are made of foam, which takes less energy to produce than paper cups. What’s more, I saved at least forty cents over the oh-so-heralded Starbucks mocha. Over time, that forty cents will save me a significant amount of money.

Yes, I just wrote an entire blog about a single cup of coffee. Think I’m crazy? Try it yourself. You’ll be just as blissful as I am.

The academic year has officially come to a close. Students have returned to their homes for the summer (or signed up for summer classes, in some cases). It seems like everyone is ready for some rest and relaxation.

Now hold on just a minute. Rest? Relaxation? Who has time for that when there is still so much to be done?! When May rolls around, studying and test-taking may be out of the picture for most, but for many UT students, summer hardly entails a break.

For students involved in any of the nearly 200 student organizations on our campus, the summer is being spent preparing for the approaching fall semester. Whether it’s brainstorming new ideas and networking with other schools or planning events held at UT year after year, our student leaders are hard at work making sure they can provide great events for students to enjoy in the fall. On a personal level, I’ve been getting ready for the coming year as acting president of the Resident Student Association. Just weeks after final exams, a group of on-campus leaders, including resident advisors, RSA members, and members of the National Residence Hall Honorary boarded a plane and jetted off to Tucson, Arizona. As we set foot on the University of Arizona campus, we were immediately energized with our purpose there–attending and actively participating in the events of NACURH 2009.

NACURH (The National Association for College and University Residence Halls) is a linking of all the on-campus student leaders in the country. This dynamic group hosts a conference each year where member schools send a delegation of student leaders to network with other delegations and exchange ideas. Sounds productive, right? It actually happens to be tons of fun too! Each member of our delegation had a blast meeting students from across the country. Attending the conference was an invaluable experience for each of us. We all took away a wealth of knowledge that will undoubtedly inspire us to make the 2009-2010 academic year an incredible one.

Two UT's come together at NACURH: The University of Toledo and The University of Texas.

Since NACURH, I’ve returned with a renewed spirit and tons of energy. I can’t wait to bring everything I learned to The University of Toledo community.

After going to Arizona, most peoplle would think I got a break. Nothing could be further from the truth. I dove headfirst into preparing for the school year with RSA. The rest of the executive board and I have a great year planned. We’re all getting along very well, and I consider them awesome friends.

Quality RSA executive board bonding time!

Not only have I been working hard trying to step up and fulfill my RSA duties, I also have been working in a new and exciting environment. I’ve been granted the amazing opportunity to gain experience toward my career in law. In downtown Cleveland, the law firm of Javitch, Block, & Rathbone opened its doors (and the window of opportunity) for me to intern under the guidance and supervision of a reputable and experienced staff. I could not be luckier or more excited about this opportunity.

Phew. Undoubtedly, so many UT students and I have had summers that are more chaotic than relaxing. While this holds true, I know I would never have it another way. This is definitely the summer of a lifetime.

Change is happening all around us. Within the past few months, The University of Toledo has seen changes in several areas. Specifically, student organizations have or are in the process of choosing new leaders for the 2009-2010 school year. This not only affects the students in those organizations, but the student body as a whole. So far, I have been nothing short of impressed by and proud of the up and coming student leaders in The University of Toledo community.

Just weeks ago, this campus was buzzing with talks of elections and campaigining. The elections for the new Student Government president and vice president was the source of the hype, and students found themselves completely immersed in the excitement. With four tickets running for the highly coveted postion, the competition was intense and the results highly anticipated. Eventually, fellow University Journalist and Campus Activities and Programming director Krystal Weaver was announced as UT’s new Student Government President with Panhellenic Council president Raechel Wise as her Vice President. The story can be found on the Independent Collegian’s website.

With such a highly contested race, I must confess that I myself was concerned about whether the results were the best for the student body. Today, I stand corrected.

This morning hundreds of student leaders gathered to hear information from administration regarding budgeting cuts in a depressed economy and staff restructuring. Ms. Weaver led the group in an orderly manner in an attempt to bring dialogue between students and administration. She spoke professionally and articulately with several administrators and ensured the students their voices would be heard. She has dedicated herself entirely to the benefit of the student population here at The University of Toledo. In the coming days and weeks, she will be meeting with several administrators, including President Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, to represent the thoughts and ideas of the students. Her tireless effort has not gone unnoticed.

With Krystal Weaver leading our most prominent student organization on campus, Student Government, I have total confidence that we can only improve our campus as a whole. Seeing her efforts, other students, myself included, will undoubtedly feel inspired and motivted to realize their potentials and take this institution to new heights. Together, we can all do great things.

Being a first-year college student presents a number of new possibilities and opportunities. Inevitably, said college student will make some mistakes. Maybe making mistakes is not necessarily as bad as many of us think. Every mistake, no matter how small, always seems to teach us something.

One of the best experiences I’ve had at The University of Toledo is serving as a campus tour guide. I love everything about it ok, maybe sometimes the weather becomes a touch irritating. I am so proud of this campus, so showing it off to prospective students is truly exciting for me. Of course, this is not to say I have not had my stumbling points… literally.

Immediately following my interview with Nick, my current supervisor, he suggested I shadow a tour that was just about to leave the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. I enthusiastically accepted this proposal, ready to gain the experience I needed to eventually lead my own tours. Now, it is more or less an unwritten job requirement of a campus tour guide that you walk backwards while showing campus to the families on the tours. So, being the industrious tour guide in-training that I was, I decided I should walk backwards with the tour guide leading the group. I wore clogs that day. I wore backless clogs that day. Mistake Number One.

The entire tour, I spent more time trying to keep my feet in my shoes (while walking backwards) than learning the tour route around campus and picking up on new and interesting facts about the university. At one point, my shoe came almost completely off my foot. Cue embarassing trip. Lesson Learned Number One: Do not wear backless shoes when one’s job requires walking backwards.

This may be a silly example, but it goes to show that every little mistake can lead to a lesson learned. With so many new opportunities presented to us as college freshmen, the opportunity for mistakes grows with it. I’ve come to realize the opportunity for mistakes just gives more opportunity to grow, and nothing could be more beneficial as one walks through life. In my case, I just so happen to be walking backwards.