Being assigned to the Friday slot for the UB summer blog got me started thinking about Fridays and I realized how the way I think of the day has fluctuated a lot over the years.
When I was a kid, I kind of dreaded Fridays. For me, a weekend at home with my family could be unpleasant. My stepfather was an alcoholic, prone to violent outbursts when he was on a "binge" so the calm and predictable rituals of the schoolday were always preferable. My husband grew up in a similar environment, and we both think we loved school, partly because it was so much better than being at home. We've sometimes joked that we didn't make our daughters miserable enough at home, since they didn't share our passion for academics.
When the girls were pre-schoolers, I looked forward to Fridays because my husband would be home to play with the four of us. Then, when the three girls started school, I returned to work, part-time at first. As my job grew to become a full-time position, I began to cherish Fridays, because I really missed the time with my family that being a stay-at-home mom had afforded me.
By the time the trio of estrogen-supercharged teenagers were reaching junior high age, weekends became more stressful, so Friday lost some of its allure. Then, my husband and I forged a battle plan -- date night -- and the day returned to its place of honor on our calendars.
As the girls have grown up and moved into their independent lives, we still practice "date night" on Fridays. Now, though, instead of serving to escape the shrill cacaphony of young female voices competing for attention, we do it in order to find some specific dedicated time during the week to just listen to and talk with each other -- "face time" as my husband calls it. As his career has led him to more responsibility and my academic pursuits have become more challenging, we find that "date night" is just as vital now in nurturning our relationship as it was when it felt like we were up to our eyeballs in the demands of parenthood.
So, yeah, I really like Fridays nowadays, but I still have pretty vivid memories of those childhood days when Fridays were not to be looked forward to. That probably has a lot to do with the focus of my academic and career goals being to work to help people improve the quality of their family lives and relationships.
What about you? Have you had life changes that made Fridays more or less desireable? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Going Green...One Step at a Time
I've been continually impressed by the UB administration's commitment to "going green" these days. I mean, who can't appreciate sunlights, solar panels, and some smart recycling? It'll also be pretty cool to see some gardening on top of the new law school building (http://www.ubalt.edu/template.cfm?page=3090).
Still, I can't help but think that there is more we can do. In particular, it just seems to make sense that for a campus to really be committed to sustainability, the students--in addition to the administration--need to asked or given an option to get involved.
So this brings me to my first rant of the summer season: printing at UB sucks.
I'm not talking about how the printers are always "warming up" or how the printers like to take their smoking "breaks" and send your print job into cyber limbo. I'm talking about how wasteful printing at UB can be. There is simply too much excess paper caused by the student ID coversheets. I know it seems like I'm being fickle, but hear me out. The often-discarded student ID coversheets swarm the printing desks and overflow in the little recycling bins.
According to UB tech staff I once asked, those sheets are mandatory. You can't turn them off. OK, yes, it's nice to separate your print jobs. And recycling is there--but we can do better. So, borrowing a few concepts I've seen at other universities, I'd like to put these ideas out there for the good techies at UB to do with what they will:
Double-Sided Printing... I don't make printers for a living or even as a hobby (thankfully), but I've seen it done and I think our printers look fancy enough to have this capability. It doesn't really take any longer to complete the print job, it looks more professional/book-like when you get your final paper, and it saves trees by reducing paper use...well...in half. Holla.
ID Watermark on the First Page...Let's see if I can describe this clearly. What I'm talking about is giving students the option to NOT print a coversheet; but rather, to have their student ID automatically printed in small font on the top of the first page of their print job. Now, we know that no one is going to want to print something uber important with a UB ID on it. But if I'm printing out Google maps or a draft, why not? I would also like to think that the Great Printer Wait--that eternal line of students standing in queue for their print jobs--would be reduced even if only a third of students were printing one fewer page.
Alright...rant over. As my buddy Kermit would point out: "It's not easy being green."
Still, I can't help but think that there is more we can do. In particular, it just seems to make sense that for a campus to really be committed to sustainability, the students--in addition to the administration--need to asked or given an option to get involved.
So this brings me to my first rant of the summer season: printing at UB sucks.
I'm not talking about how the printers are always "warming up" or how the printers like to take their smoking "breaks" and send your print job into cyber limbo. I'm talking about how wasteful printing at UB can be. There is simply too much excess paper caused by the student ID coversheets. I know it seems like I'm being fickle, but hear me out. The often-discarded student ID coversheets swarm the printing desks and overflow in the little recycling bins.
According to UB tech staff I once asked, those sheets are mandatory. You can't turn them off. OK, yes, it's nice to separate your print jobs. And recycling is there--but we can do better. So, borrowing a few concepts I've seen at other universities, I'd like to put these ideas out there for the good techies at UB to do with what they will:
Double-Sided Printing... I don't make printers for a living or even as a hobby (thankfully), but I've seen it done and I think our printers look fancy enough to have this capability. It doesn't really take any longer to complete the print job, it looks more professional/book-like when you get your final paper, and it saves trees by reducing paper use...well...in half. Holla.
ID Watermark on the First Page...Let's see if I can describe this clearly. What I'm talking about is giving students the option to NOT print a coversheet; but rather, to have their student ID automatically printed in small font on the top of the first page of their print job. Now, we know that no one is going to want to print something uber important with a UB ID on it. But if I'm printing out Google maps or a draft, why not? I would also like to think that the Great Printer Wait--that eternal line of students standing in queue for their print jobs--would be reduced even if only a third of students were printing one fewer page.
Alright...rant over. As my buddy Kermit would point out: "It's not easy being green."
Thursday, May 28, 2009
What is UB?
UB is a college of course, right? It is a place where we go to learn. But this is only the short of it. College is also a place to experience new things; to find a sense of self. In my first year at UB I've discovered many things about myself and I've found that I could do a lot more than I had thought.
But this is the story of many, is it not? The story of discovering that there is an entire world out there and now you must step up to the plate and face it. This is true of those in college and those who have graduated; those in college simply have more time to think. And so I must use every minute of time I have to grow.
I had heard many things about college, a lot of it negative and yet, UB did not live up to the negative. Yes, it was stressful and of course it was hard work, but the teachers at UB teach and they teach well. The classes are small, which gives more room for interaction between teacher and student. First and foremost, the teachers want you to learn. And I don't just mean they want "the students" to learn, I mean they want you, specifically, to do well.
So what have I done? I have done well and I intend to do so in the future. But it is important to ask yourself why you are learning and why you are going into the field that you've chosen. Is it because it plays on your strengths? Or just because it "feels" right?
College gives the opportunity to explore all kinds of knowledge. It offers the opportunity to explore yourself. And UB offers the opportunity to explore these things in a very up-close and personal manner. So take advantage of the time you have now. Remember that the diploma you receive signifies what you have learned, but only you know what that is. Seize the opportunity to learn from UB.
But this is the story of many, is it not? The story of discovering that there is an entire world out there and now you must step up to the plate and face it. This is true of those in college and those who have graduated; those in college simply have more time to think. And so I must use every minute of time I have to grow.
I had heard many things about college, a lot of it negative and yet, UB did not live up to the negative. Yes, it was stressful and of course it was hard work, but the teachers at UB teach and they teach well. The classes are small, which gives more room for interaction between teacher and student. First and foremost, the teachers want you to learn. And I don't just mean they want "the students" to learn, I mean they want you, specifically, to do well.
So what have I done? I have done well and I intend to do so in the future. But it is important to ask yourself why you are learning and why you are going into the field that you've chosen. Is it because it plays on your strengths? Or just because it "feels" right?
College gives the opportunity to explore all kinds of knowledge. It offers the opportunity to explore yourself. And UB offers the opportunity to explore these things in a very up-close and personal manner. So take advantage of the time you have now. Remember that the diploma you receive signifies what you have learned, but only you know what that is. Seize the opportunity to learn from UB.
summer go bye bye
So... this is the first time I have ever... and I mean... EVER... taken a summer course... and although we are only one class in, just the thought of losing part of my normal summer is depressing lol... I'm used to getting off work and just coming home (or going out) and being able to relax, not coming home and having to do homework/assignments on top of other to-do list... so I figure I might as well say goodbye to my summer now... most of it anyway... le sigh... :(
A trip to the Cultural District
Hi UB! For my first post, I thought I'd venture a little beyond the campus of UB.
Summer is a great time to get to know UB. I would add that it is also a great time to get to know the area around UB. After all, we're located in the Mount Vernon Cultural District. But what does this mean other than we're across from The Lyric and Meyerhoff Symphony Hall? This past Sunday, I ventured a little further into the heart of the district to find out.
I've lived near Baltimore City all my life. I've been to the Inner Harbor, the Science Center, the Aquarium, and Zoo many times. School trips (both as a student and a parent) have taken me to the Balt. Museum of Art, The Lyric and Symphony Hall. But until now, I've never been inside The Walters Art Museum. What a mistake!
My venture began when, determined to see the exhibit "The Saint John's Bible: A Modern Vision Through Medieval Methods," I convinced my husband and 17 yr old son to take the trip into the city with me. The Museum is located on North Charles Street in the heart of the historic Mt Vernon district, and across from the Washington Monument.
After seeing the main exhibit, which was fascinating, we soon found ourselves wandering through a maze of hallways and staircases, each leading to a different section of the museum. Along the way, we discovered rooms featuring everything from ancient world artifacts to 19th century art. We found medieval manuscripts and Renaissance masterpieces. Sculptures guarded the halls, and tapestries hung above the stairs. At one point, we made it to the Hackerman House, circa 1850, which now houses the Asian Art collection. My son was particularly impressed with the Japanese and Chinese rooms which included Samurai armor and weaponry, as well as ivory carvings and other treasures. The House itself is an architectural masterpiece with its decorative ceilings, and grand circular stairway in the front hall. Needless to say, we spent several hours exploring the museum; at times, we were the only ones in the room.
We did pay a nominal fee to see the Bible exhibit, but anyone can visit the rest of the museum for FREE.
Unfortunately, the Bible exhibit is now closed, but don't let that stop you from going. In addition to the Permanent Collections as described above, here is a quick list of current exhibitions:
Mummified - now through Nov. 8, 2010: a revealing look at what lies beneath the wrappings
Prayers in Code - now through July 19, 2009: a collection of various 'Book of Hours' from the Middle Ages
Rembrandt Peale's Portrait of John Meer - now through Aug. 23, 2009: featuring portraits by American painter, Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860) which traces the artist's development
And coming June 28, 2009 through Aug. 30, 2009 -- Herman Maril: An American Modernist: a native Baltimorean, Maril (1908-86) was a graduate of MICA and faculty member at UMUC
So I guess my point is ... UB is located in a special section of the city ... it's up to us to learn just how truly special it is.
For more information, go to www.thewalters.org
Summer is a great time to get to know UB. I would add that it is also a great time to get to know the area around UB. After all, we're located in the Mount Vernon Cultural District. But what does this mean other than we're across from The Lyric and Meyerhoff Symphony Hall? This past Sunday, I ventured a little further into the heart of the district to find out.
I've lived near Baltimore City all my life. I've been to the Inner Harbor, the Science Center, the Aquarium, and Zoo many times. School trips (both as a student and a parent) have taken me to the Balt. Museum of Art, The Lyric and Symphony Hall. But until now, I've never been inside The Walters Art Museum. What a mistake!
My venture began when, determined to see the exhibit "The Saint John's Bible: A Modern Vision Through Medieval Methods," I convinced my husband and 17 yr old son to take the trip into the city with me. The Museum is located on North Charles Street in the heart of the historic Mt Vernon district, and across from the Washington Monument.
After seeing the main exhibit, which was fascinating, we soon found ourselves wandering through a maze of hallways and staircases, each leading to a different section of the museum. Along the way, we discovered rooms featuring everything from ancient world artifacts to 19th century art. We found medieval manuscripts and Renaissance masterpieces. Sculptures guarded the halls, and tapestries hung above the stairs. At one point, we made it to the Hackerman House, circa 1850, which now houses the Asian Art collection. My son was particularly impressed with the Japanese and Chinese rooms which included Samurai armor and weaponry, as well as ivory carvings and other treasures. The House itself is an architectural masterpiece with its decorative ceilings, and grand circular stairway in the front hall. Needless to say, we spent several hours exploring the museum; at times, we were the only ones in the room.
We did pay a nominal fee to see the Bible exhibit, but anyone can visit the rest of the museum for FREE.
Unfortunately, the Bible exhibit is now closed, but don't let that stop you from going. In addition to the Permanent Collections as described above, here is a quick list of current exhibitions:
Mummified - now through Nov. 8, 2010: a revealing look at what lies beneath the wrappings
Prayers in Code - now through July 19, 2009: a collection of various 'Book of Hours' from the Middle Ages
Rembrandt Peale's Portrait of John Meer - now through Aug. 23, 2009: featuring portraits by American painter, Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860) which traces the artist's development
And coming June 28, 2009 through Aug. 30, 2009 -- Herman Maril: An American Modernist: a native Baltimorean, Maril (1908-86) was a graduate of MICA and faculty member at UMUC
So I guess my point is ... UB is located in a special section of the city ... it's up to us to learn just how truly special it is.
For more information, go to www.thewalters.org
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
a new term, with new plans
Hello, reader friends.
It's nice to be back on the UB Blog for summer. Although I am not taking classes this summer, I will be thinking of UB all the time.
This past year... Wow. I met a lot of amazing new people, and learned a lot of amazing new things. Being at UB is a delight for me, and promises to keep getting better.
This summer I will be in and out of Baltimore. Thanks to the generosity of the School of Communications Design, I will be able to spend a fair amount of time out on the road, doing research for a writing project, and I suspect that from time to time I will be blogging from the mountains of North Carolina or Tennessee, the battlefields of Virginia and Maryland, and other places as well.
That said, I look forward to hearing about everyone else's summer also. I almost wish I were taking summer classes just so I could see my friends (not to mention make more progress on the path to my MFA...), but I expect I'll be down at the Starbucks and XS every half hour anyway.
Here's hoping you're all having an excellent summer so far!
It's nice to be back on the UB Blog for summer. Although I am not taking classes this summer, I will be thinking of UB all the time.
This past year... Wow. I met a lot of amazing new people, and learned a lot of amazing new things. Being at UB is a delight for me, and promises to keep getting better.
This summer I will be in and out of Baltimore. Thanks to the generosity of the School of Communications Design, I will be able to spend a fair amount of time out on the road, doing research for a writing project, and I suspect that from time to time I will be blogging from the mountains of North Carolina or Tennessee, the battlefields of Virginia and Maryland, and other places as well.
That said, I look forward to hearing about everyone else's summer also. I almost wish I were taking summer classes just so I could see my friends (not to mention make more progress on the path to my MFA...), but I expect I'll be down at the Starbucks and XS every half hour anyway.
Here's hoping you're all having an excellent summer so far!
Inspirational Stories
Graduation is a time to celebrate our achievements and give thanks to the people in our lives who have helped us along the way. It is also a great time to reflect on the many stories of people who have overcome challenging obstacles and still seem to achieve success. Remembering these stories really seem to help when I start something new and get scared about the unknown journey.
When I examine the educational paths of my friends in my life; I am completely awed at their accomplishments. Nick was a University of Baltimore graduate after being in the Navy for 20 years and raising family at the same time. He is now an analyst at the National Security Agency. Wendi received her Masters in Computers Systems Management while juggling a career as a program manager and dealing with Cerebral Palsy. Ian flunked out of high school and now has two masters and is a programmer for a global professional services firm. He is now been accepted to the University of Baltimore’s Doctorate program. Through balancing family responsibilities, having a disability, and overcoming learning challenges, these three individuals give us hope of how we can overcome our own struggles and be successful in achieving our own educational goals.
To achieve success isn’t always an easy path in the journey of learning. Approximately three weeks ago, I received confirmation I had been accepted to the University of Baltimore’s Doctorate of Communication and Design. I am so thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to obtain a doctorate from University of Baltimore. Life can be funny sometimes. If you looked back at my life as a high school graduate in 1985, you would have never thought I would be passionate about continuing my education and working in technology.
When posting my good news on Facebook for my old college friends, it was amazing the reactions that I received. Most were happy but others never would have predicted it. I have always struggled as a learner and have always been an average student. So why pursue my forth degree? Because I know I still have so much more to learn and want to continue to grow.
Kubler-Ross has seven stages of death. I believe there are seven stages to pursuing an education. I am currently in the first/second stage. I am excited, amazed and scared of the unknown. But I do know that all these feelings are normal and will pass as time goes on. I have nervousness in my stomach at times as to whether or not I can achieve my doctorate. However, I think of my friends’ stories and know they can help me write my own.
When I examine the educational paths of my friends in my life; I am completely awed at their accomplishments. Nick was a University of Baltimore graduate after being in the Navy for 20 years and raising family at the same time. He is now an analyst at the National Security Agency. Wendi received her Masters in Computers Systems Management while juggling a career as a program manager and dealing with Cerebral Palsy. Ian flunked out of high school and now has two masters and is a programmer for a global professional services firm. He is now been accepted to the University of Baltimore’s Doctorate program. Through balancing family responsibilities, having a disability, and overcoming learning challenges, these three individuals give us hope of how we can overcome our own struggles and be successful in achieving our own educational goals.
To achieve success isn’t always an easy path in the journey of learning. Approximately three weeks ago, I received confirmation I had been accepted to the University of Baltimore’s Doctorate of Communication and Design. I am so thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to obtain a doctorate from University of Baltimore. Life can be funny sometimes. If you looked back at my life as a high school graduate in 1985, you would have never thought I would be passionate about continuing my education and working in technology.
When posting my good news on Facebook for my old college friends, it was amazing the reactions that I received. Most were happy but others never would have predicted it. I have always struggled as a learner and have always been an average student. So why pursue my forth degree? Because I know I still have so much more to learn and want to continue to grow.
Kubler-Ross has seven stages of death. I believe there are seven stages to pursuing an education. I am currently in the first/second stage. I am excited, amazed and scared of the unknown. But I do know that all these feelings are normal and will pass as time goes on. I have nervousness in my stomach at times as to whether or not I can achieve my doctorate. However, I think of my friends’ stories and know they can help me write my own.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Summer Studies at UB
Welcome to the beginning of Summer 09 semester. This will be my first Summer semester at UB and I am already liking my teachers and classes. I know that this year will be tough handling two Summer classes and also working full-time. But I know that my determination and motivation will help to push me through another semester. Being a part of the Corporate Communication major has inspired me to always do my best and has pushed me to achieve my goals in life and in my education. I know that there are many people who feel the same way I do. If you are reading this and you have a comment to make please let us know your experience and your feelings on your declared major and how it has affected you.
I know that getting back into the flow of classes and to start re-opening those semester books can be a challenge. Some of us get really excited, become overwhelmed or stressed. Many people look at Summer as a chance to wind down, relax, and go on vacation. Summer at UB can be exciting and a way to meet new classmates online or on-campus. Be sure to check out all the events and become involved. This can be another good way to wind down, relax, and maybe pretend you are on vacation, lol.
I know that getting back into the flow of classes and to start re-opening those semester books can be a challenge. Some of us get really excited, become overwhelmed or stressed. Many people look at Summer as a chance to wind down, relax, and go on vacation. Summer at UB can be exciting and a way to meet new classmates online or on-campus. Be sure to check out all the events and become involved. This can be another good way to wind down, relax, and maybe pretend you are on vacation, lol.
Memorial Day
Welcome back everyone! Or at least welcome back to those taking Summer Session courses like myself. Yesterday was Memorial Day and I hope everyone celebrated it in style and soaked in some of that late spring, early summer sun. This holiday has come to represent picnics, BBQs and the kickoff of summer to most people. But, as its namesake hints at, it is really a day set aside for remembrance and honor. So, I would like to take some freedom on this, my first summer blog, to talk about our country and those who fight for its continued wellbeing and peace.
On an everyday basis, most of us think about getting to work and/or class on time, watching our favorite shows, updating our Facebook status, texting our friends…Now imagine if you woke up every day in a war zone instead. That’s what over 150,000 young men and women in our armed forces are facing daily in war zones worldwide. Here is a small account of one soldier’s daily trials:
“We were attacked several times this week. Only one minor casualty from another unit. The report is that he will be ok. Mortars here are a daily event. Yesterday one hit about 500 meters from our trailer -what a way to wake up. My guys reacted great. We all got in our bunkers before the second one hit further away. Then, we waited to hear the outgoing artillery. You hear the shot, wait about 20 seconds, and then you hear the impact.”—Diary of A Solider, Patrick Eates
It is hard to believe that bombings like the one described are an “everyday occurrence” for many of our soldiers who are stationed in war zones. But I believe that we owe them the respect and gratitude to think about these circumstances one day out of our year, on Memorial Day, and realize the great courage they have. I, for one, take this day to remember the soldiers I know personally and honor the great things they have done. My Grandfather, William, who flew fighter planes over the Pacific during WWII and my brother, Michael, who served in Iraq and at home for 4 years. Thankfully, my family never suffered the loss of either of these 2 great men at war but my heart goes out to the countless who have.
As students, we might get overwhelmed by our own daily routine. I know I do! All I’m suggesting is that we take opportunities when we can to show support for our soldiers overseas. Many of them are students as well and probably have more in common with you than you think! If you are interested in sending care packages, this website is a great resource: http://www.anysoldier.com/ Just think of things you would like: video games, music, books…they don’t have access to these items. Or if writing is your style, send a letter! You can find a solider to contact here: http://soldiersangels.org/
Honor our American Heroes!
On an everyday basis, most of us think about getting to work and/or class on time, watching our favorite shows, updating our Facebook status, texting our friends…Now imagine if you woke up every day in a war zone instead. That’s what over 150,000 young men and women in our armed forces are facing daily in war zones worldwide. Here is a small account of one soldier’s daily trials:
“We were attacked several times this week. Only one minor casualty from another unit. The report is that he will be ok. Mortars here are a daily event. Yesterday one hit about 500 meters from our trailer -what a way to wake up. My guys reacted great. We all got in our bunkers before the second one hit further away. Then, we waited to hear the outgoing artillery. You hear the shot, wait about 20 seconds, and then you hear the impact.”—Diary of A Solider, Patrick Eates
It is hard to believe that bombings like the one described are an “everyday occurrence” for many of our soldiers who are stationed in war zones. But I believe that we owe them the respect and gratitude to think about these circumstances one day out of our year, on Memorial Day, and realize the great courage they have. I, for one, take this day to remember the soldiers I know personally and honor the great things they have done. My Grandfather, William, who flew fighter planes over the Pacific during WWII and my brother, Michael, who served in Iraq and at home for 4 years. Thankfully, my family never suffered the loss of either of these 2 great men at war but my heart goes out to the countless who have.
As students, we might get overwhelmed by our own daily routine. I know I do! All I’m suggesting is that we take opportunities when we can to show support for our soldiers overseas. Many of them are students as well and probably have more in common with you than you think! If you are interested in sending care packages, this website is a great resource: http://www.anysoldier.com/ Just think of things you would like: video games, music, books…they don’t have access to these items. Or if writing is your style, send a letter! You can find a solider to contact here: http://soldiersangels.org/
Honor our American Heroes!
Monday, May 18, 2009
WordCamp at UB a huge success
So WordCamp here at UB last Saturday was a great success. The organizers are calling the event one of their most successful ever, and they’re spreading the word that UB is a great host site for bloggers and social media confabs.
Check out the pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/drbeachvacation/tags/wordcampmidatl/.
Hopefully, this will raise awareness among bloggers and Web 2.0-ers that UB is a hot spot for this kind of stuff.
Stay tuned for the return of the UB Blog with the start of summer session next week.
Check out the pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/drbeachvacation/tags/wordcampmidatl/.
Hopefully, this will raise awareness among bloggers and Web 2.0-ers that UB is a hot spot for this kind of stuff.
Stay tuned for the return of the UB Blog with the start of summer session next week.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
WordCamp Comes to UB
Check out what's coming to UB this Saturday: our very own (well, not exactly ours) conference on blogging, WordCamp Mid-Atlantic 2009. Of course, Google may censor this info, since the conference is all about using WordPress to blog, while the UB Blog uses Google's own Blogger. According to the event's Web site:
Anyway, the conference will be held in UB's William H. Thumel Sr. Business Center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Looks like the event is sold out, which is pretty cool. Well, happy blogging, people, and welcome to UB!
"WordCamp is a conference type of event that focuses squarely on everything WordPress. Everyone from casual end users all the way up to core developers show up to these events. These events are usually highlighted by speeches or keynotes by various people."
Labels:
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conference,
University of Baltimore,
WordCamp
Friday, May 8, 2009
The Conversation Continues
I am sitting in Langsdale right now to prepare the final post of the semester. Despite being at the end, the conversation continues as social media abounds at UB.
First, there's a collection of blogs worth noting:
Finally, there's a YouTube Channel:
UB and the Alumni Association have presences on Facebook and LinkedIn, too. So keep on talking, and if you start a UB-related blog, Twitter, or other social media account, post it in the comments!
First, there's a collection of blogs worth noting:
- Langsdale Library News--Straight from the librarians
- University of Baltimore Law Library--Librarians and lawyers
- Take the Lead!--Leadership UB's official blog
- University of Baltimore CNCM Student Info Blog--News from the Center for Negotiations and Conflict Management
- Ron's Blog--News from the Towson/UB MBA program
Finally, there's a YouTube Channel:
UB and the Alumni Association have presences on Facebook and LinkedIn, too. So keep on talking, and if you start a UB-related blog, Twitter, or other social media account, post it in the comments!
Labels:
blog,
cncm,
law school,
leadership,
library,
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MFA,
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UB,
youtube
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
The end is only the beginning
Here we are in our final week at UB.
Stressed, exhausted, excited, zombie-mode?
Only a few of the emotions going around campus because of teachers trying to cram, papers being do and projects being done last minute.
It all seems surreal to me, as I just finished reading Ithinkthereforeiam's last post as she is graduating from UB and myself, just getting started.
Like she said, UB is not your traditonal campus. the one thing I love about this school, is that it is more mature, more fulfilling, as all the people I have met here is unique and special and different! no two people here are exactly the same and everyone here seems to be down to earth.
this place is just great
Looking back now, Ive grown ALOT this year and I am no where near done as I am still trying to figure out everything; Who I am, what i want to do and where im going in this journey
But i know that only at UB would i be the person i am today. if i went anywhere else, I probably be the same immature little jackass I was in High School. I am sure there are bloggers here who still think I am that little jackass =)
but anyway, like i said before, to anybody who is reading this, UB is amazing because it's the real deal, its the place where you have a chance to actually mature from boys and girls into Men and women, ready for the real world.
Thanks to all who have read my stuff this year, can't wait for next year!!!
Stressed, exhausted, excited, zombie-mode?
Only a few of the emotions going around campus because of teachers trying to cram, papers being do and projects being done last minute.
It all seems surreal to me, as I just finished reading Ithinkthereforeiam's last post as she is graduating from UB and myself, just getting started.
Like she said, UB is not your traditonal campus. the one thing I love about this school, is that it is more mature, more fulfilling, as all the people I have met here is unique and special and different! no two people here are exactly the same and everyone here seems to be down to earth.
this place is just great
Looking back now, Ive grown ALOT this year and I am no where near done as I am still trying to figure out everything; Who I am, what i want to do and where im going in this journey
But i know that only at UB would i be the person i am today. if i went anywhere else, I probably be the same immature little jackass I was in High School. I am sure there are bloggers here who still think I am that little jackass =)
but anyway, like i said before, to anybody who is reading this, UB is amazing because it's the real deal, its the place where you have a chance to actually mature from boys and girls into Men and women, ready for the real world.
Thanks to all who have read my stuff this year, can't wait for next year!!!
Farewell UB
Well, this is it. In exactly 2 weeks I will be a college graduate. I'll receive my diploma, and my "college experience" will officially be over. It seems like yesterday I was walking across the stage of Randallstown High School, and now almost 5 years later here I am, done with COLLEGE. I've had a lot of fun times throughout my undergraduate years, some of which I dont wish to reminisce about lol...but I've met a lot of great people along the way, taken some interesting classes, and more importantly learned about myself as an individual in the process. The growth itself took some getting used to; I wanted desperately to be like everybody else, when it was apparent that I was different. Wow, I really can not believe I'm about to be done with my undergraduate career. Its rather bittersweet, you know; on the one hand I'm excited to be accomplishing this milestone in my life while on the other hand, the "real" world is a few steps away. I mean, I worked my way through school to pay tuition and other bills, but it seems surreal. I started my undergraduate career at Mount Saint Mary's University, where I ran track with some awesome people, and thought that I would graduate from there. The school itself was amazing, but I wasn't focused because of the "college life"-drinking, parties during the week, it was crazy. Then I transferred to UB in 2006 and my life did an entire 360-degree turn. Not only were there no campus parties, but I was back home living with my parents! But UB wasn't the traditional college setting either-when I started, UB was still a 2-year school, and there weren't many students my age. I was 20 years old sitting in a classroom full of people 25 and older-I was a baby. But it worked because I was able to learn from other people's experiences, and also mature in the process. So, in my opinion UB was the "umph" I needed to jumpstart my growth process from a girl into a woman. And by no means am I done, because I'm learning everyday, but I thank God for the experience, and all of the wonderful people I've come in contact with, from the professors, to students, and staff/faculty. So, as I say farewell to UB, I encourage any underclassmen, and even graduate students to embrace UB and all it has to offer. Its come a long way since I've started, and I am proud to graduate from such a wonderful school with an environment that fostered my growth.
Farewell UB......
Farewell UB......
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Campus Housing!
I’m surprised no one beat me to blogging about the latest development at UB…(drum roll please…) Campus Housing now available to students! True that UB is not a traditional campus with sprawling acres of space but, to me, that’s all a part of its charm. The surrounding Mount Vernon Cultural Arts District has a ton of character and feels like a safe but lively place to live. So, even though I was surprised to learn upon admission that there was no campus housing available, I considered myself lucky to have a city setting. That is why I was very excited to pick the weekly edition of UB Post and see this story.
Here’s some of the details in case you missed it:
The University has made arrangements with several apartment complexes right in UB Midtown, within a short walk of campus, to provide you with cost-effective, convenient living options. Choose from a variety of living arrangements, from residing solo to sharing space with up to three roommates. (http://www.ubalt.edu/template.cfm?page=94)
To kick off this new effort, UB will hold Open Housing Fairs on May 16th and July 11th. They will be shuttling and giving tours to parents and students who are interested in being the first to try out UB’s new housing arrangements. Though I have a happy setup near my work in Rockville, I might go on a tour for fun. This is a big step for the school’s growth and I think it will be a huge draw for incoming students.
Here’s some of the details in case you missed it:
The University has made arrangements with several apartment complexes right in UB Midtown, within a short walk of campus, to provide you with cost-effective, convenient living options. Choose from a variety of living arrangements, from residing solo to sharing space with up to three roommates. (http://www.ubalt.edu/template.cfm?page=94)
To kick off this new effort, UB will hold Open Housing Fairs on May 16th and July 11th. They will be shuttling and giving tours to parents and students who are interested in being the first to try out UB’s new housing arrangements. Though I have a happy setup near my work in Rockville, I might go on a tour for fun. This is a big step for the school’s growth and I think it will be a huge draw for incoming students.
Monday, May 4, 2009
These lazy days of May
Hey avid readers...
This is my last post of the Spring, so I wanted to take a minute to thank you for your attention over the past few months. So much is happening around UB all the time that it's a little overwhelming sometimes...and often it can be hard to figure out what, exactly, is going to trigger a post.
A lot of good things are in store for UB in the near future. We're getting a new building with a bigger bookstore, the different departments and their faculty and students keep gaining new recognition for the university, tuition is not, at the moment, leaping upward. It's all good stuff. I hear murmurs from other folk that things are well in their parts of UB too -- that the school may be expanding its already significant outreach into the community, that we may be more things for more people.
I don't know about you, but I can't wait. Being school-free this summer is going to be so hard for me, and I'm already getting twitchy about being back next fall. I will spend this summer working on my writing, hoping that next year grad school is as much fun, and as mind-altering, as it was this year, and maybe, just maybe, hitting the road and visiting states more distant than Delaware and Virginia.
Be well, UB folk. Have a safe and excellent summer, and I will see you next year. If you're graduating, go out and take over the world.
Later, avid readers....
This is my last post of the Spring, so I wanted to take a minute to thank you for your attention over the past few months. So much is happening around UB all the time that it's a little overwhelming sometimes...and often it can be hard to figure out what, exactly, is going to trigger a post.
A lot of good things are in store for UB in the near future. We're getting a new building with a bigger bookstore, the different departments and their faculty and students keep gaining new recognition for the university, tuition is not, at the moment, leaping upward. It's all good stuff. I hear murmurs from other folk that things are well in their parts of UB too -- that the school may be expanding its already significant outreach into the community, that we may be more things for more people.
I don't know about you, but I can't wait. Being school-free this summer is going to be so hard for me, and I'm already getting twitchy about being back next fall. I will spend this summer working on my writing, hoping that next year grad school is as much fun, and as mind-altering, as it was this year, and maybe, just maybe, hitting the road and visiting states more distant than Delaware and Virginia.
Be well, UB folk. Have a safe and excellent summer, and I will see you next year. If you're graduating, go out and take over the world.
Later, avid readers....
Labels:
campus development,
end-of-semester,
summer,
travel,
writing
Friday, May 1, 2009
Just What is a Welter?
One of the more interesting experiences I had outside the classroom at the University of Baltimore was sending a short story I wrote to Welter. Welter is a literary journal produced annually by the students in the School of Communication Design and contains fiction, essays, and poetry. Now let's be clear: I have no literary talent whatsoever. Really. But I try not to let lack of talent get in the way of doing things.
So back in 2002, I wrote a brief (about four page) short story, set up as a series of journal entries, about how I was building a spaceship in my apartment (then in Silver Spring). I don't really recall why I wrote it. But I kept it around for a while. And then I sent it to Welter in the Spring of 2006. And for some reason they printed it. And then at the issue party, Lydia West stepped up to read it (it was kind of a poetry slam, except a short story). She sounded better than I would have reading it.
So, in all its glory, you can read the story online. Enjoy!
So back in 2002, I wrote a brief (about four page) short story, set up as a series of journal entries, about how I was building a spaceship in my apartment (then in Silver Spring). I don't really recall why I wrote it. But I kept it around for a while. And then I sent it to Welter in the Spring of 2006. And for some reason they printed it. And then at the issue party, Lydia West stepped up to read it (it was kind of a poetry slam, except a short story). She sounded better than I would have reading it.
So, in all its glory, you can read the story online. Enjoy!
Not enough time...
As a graduate student I sometimes feel that there is just not enough time to do anything... the average graduate student has a fulltime job and may very well have a family. So on top of the work for their job, coming home to prepare dinner and make sure the house is tiddy, we also have to find time to do our assignments... where is the time for just doing you? The social life might as well go out the window, an assignment needs to be revised... AGAIN! and of course htere are times when you work you a$$ off to revise it (doing just about everything the teacher said) and there is still no grade change... wtf is the point is there would be absolutly no change!? At this point in the semester, I'm tired and all I want is a passing grade... once the 4.0 has gone, you kinda stop striving so much to maintain it (cause you really never will get it back to 4)... why go through all the hassle? It's the end of the semester and I just want to chill and be done with it... May 2010 hurry up! I'm tired and I don't want to be in school anymore... All I know is that piece of paper beter pay off in the long run... if not, I'm going to be a little upset... can I get a refund? LOL
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