Walking

"In order to assure a certain progress in this reading, consider what hours you have free from the school and the exercises of the school. Give about two of them, every day, to exercise; for health must not be sacrificed to learning. A strong body makes the mind strong...

Never think of taking a book with you. The object of walking is to relax the mind. You should therefore not permit yourself even to think while you walk; but divert your attention by the objects surrounding you. Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far."

-Thomas Jefferson

Third President of the United States of America (1743 to 1826)

Robin Thicke - Artscape Encore!

Hey Everyone,

I hope you had a great weekend, because I definitely did. Went out to the National Harbor on Friday and got to listen to free jazz music outside. I encourage you to check it out before the summer runs out (www.nationalharbor.com). They usually have various jazz groups perform on Friday evening's along with other things on various days.
Artscape I think could be termed a success this year - I honestly wouldn't know as I showed up at 4pm yesterday, and found myself a good spot to see Robin Thicke perform! I must say the group Electrik Red that opened for him were doing just fine with their performance and then went to a cheering audience to get their pictures taken and sign a few autographs until Robin Thicke arrived and the crowd of over 2,000 went crazy!!!
He got on stage at 6:30pm (30mins late) which was not bad in comparison to other performing artists. I will be very honest with you - 80% of the crowd only knew 20% of the songs he sang... but he definitely did his thing and is one of the few artists that sound good performing live.
At a time such as this, he definitely paid tribute to Michael Jackson, here's a short clip from my cell phone.
Of course the highlight of the night was his last performance when he sang lost without you... the crowd went wild! But overall I must say it was a great concert... and the fact it was free... EVEN BETTER! There's something about Free Stuff that draws people towards it.

What I think Artscape could do to improve and draw even MORE people!?!? Well I did just talk about Free stuff... it would help if they had a recession section/affordable section where - people such as myself that don't have much money (at the moment) could at least buy a little simpler paintings, clothing or jewelry. I find it hard for some of these folks to think I just got $500 sitting in my wallet and I'm ready to drop it all on a single painting - not to say the painting isn't worth it, but come on now!

That's it from me for today - let me know what you thought of Artscape and what you think can be done to improve it for next year.

P.S. When will Mount Royal Ave. be freed up!?!?

Becoming a part of the UB community

One of the things on my list for 2009 was to become more connected to UB. When I attended college in the 80s, I didn't take the time to really get to know my college. It's probably why I didn't finish at the time. When I enrolled in my local community college in 2004, I was determined to do things differently, and I became much more involved. Once at UB, unfortunately, I turned to my old habits. After all, I'm an older student and working adult. Who has time to become "involved" in the college life? When I had what I call my "what am I doing this for" crisis last fall, I decided I needed to make a change, so I began the spring semester searching for ways to become more connected. I started using the gym in the Campus Rec Center even going as far as hiring a personal training (Thanks AJ!). I also began exploring more of the UB's resources starting with the achives at Langsdale Library. I started paying more attention to the everchanging UB campus, and the latest news about our community. And of course, I became a summer blogger. It's helped me see UB in a different and more positive way.

What's next for the fall? I've been accepted as a Peer Network Advisor. I'll be working with 3 new students this fall helping them navigate through their own educational journeys, as well as helping them discover for themselves the rich resources UB has to offer.

My point is that we all need to become involved, even in the smallest possible way. By doing so, we become a part of a community that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. The college degree is important; it will help you get a job. The college experience, on the other hand, will help you launch a career. Good luck to you all on your own college endeavors.

Book Recommendation

When you're new to the college experience, it's undoubtedly a lot to take in all at once. You have all kinds of liberties you didn't have before, but you also have all kinds of new responsibilities. It's a great time for self discovery and a great time to forge connections and experience new things. However, handling it all can be very difficult, so it's good to get as much advice as you can along the way.

In my first year, I was assigned a certain book in one of my classes. It was called "This Book is Not Required" (I kid you not) and it had a lot of very good advice about college life and the troubles that students face, in regards to things such as professors, relationships, self awareness, etc.

I recommend that you check this book out if you're new to the college scene; as I said, it's good to know how to handle all the new experiences and this book can be a very useful step in accomplishing that goal.

Halfway through July, already?!

Greetings, mes amis.

Can it be that the summer semester has come to an end? It seems that way -- my UB Facebook friends are all flinging their hands into the air in relief, ready to sit back for a couple of months and think about something else.

As for me, I'm still looking forward to classes in the fall. Until then, I'll be continuing my research, wandering battlefields, chasing history, and presumably spending a long weekend at the beach in Ocean City. With July half gone, the fall semester seems a lot closer -- alarmingly so -- and suddenly I have a jones to wallow in what's left of summer.

To echo the words of other bloggers, go check out Artscape, and enjoy the museums and cultural opportunities that wait for you, so close to UB. For those of you who are new to UB, and to Baltimore, I think you'll be amazed by the number of museums, orchestras, gardens, arboretums, theaters, and other Fun Stuff that awaits you.

Have an excellent summer, everyone.

A Support System

With exams and final projects coming to an end; the stress for of all us can be extremely overwhelming. Examples include instructors getting the grades compiled and handed in on time; students finishing projects and studying for finals; and staff completing administrative responsibilities.

Since being officially out of school for three years, it is a time of the year that takes some getting use to dealing with the deadline pressures. It is extremely important you have people in your life who can take your moods and support you along your educational journey. Luckily my significant other has a tough skin and knows how I will deal with the pressure and doesn't take it personally. I have friends who call me to cheer me on and make light that they are relaxing while I am studying. And I have a friend who sends me a cards stating hang in there.

So as we look around and feel our stress, I think it is important to know that we are all in it together. And even though it can be rather stressful - and the end the adventure, I know it will be worth journey of the stress. Thankfully, we will remember the people who supported us along the way.

Summer Studies at UB

Hi Everyone! Happy Tuesday! So this will be the last week of classes, and I know you cant wait until this week is over. Remember to relax and enjoy the 43 days you will have until the Fall semester. Artscape will take place July 17 - 19th and there will be live entertainment which will include Dionne Warwick, Cake, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Robin Thicke, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Acrobats of China, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra ... and more.

This will be located on Mount Royal Avenue & Cathedral Street / Charles Street
Bolton Hill neighborhood & Station North Arts & Entertainment District. Be sure to visit http://www.ubalt.edu/ to plan your visit.


This is a good way to end your semester at UB and celebrate what you have accomplished. I feel the best thing about going to school and trying to further your education are the obstacles you have overcome, the people you have met, the teachers that have educated you, and your friends that understood the nights you stayed in were only because your school work was most important. I wish everyone a happy summer and good luck in your classes. I will be continuing to write for the Fall term and I already have many ideas and new exciting things to write about. I will also have more time on my hands and not as many classes. I hope you have enjoyed a little bit of what I have had to say for the summer semester or that I have inspired you in my thoughts of life's lessons as a UB student. Good Luck and remember the processes in life is what molds us and makes us into who we are today, so while going through the process of college at UB stay on top of things and remember you are here because you want to be someone important and successful one day!

Art and the University of Baltimore

Artscape is this week, and it reminds me of one my favorite parts of the UB experience. UB is at the center of the Baltimore art community. The Maryland Institute College of Art is around the corner, and both the Walters Art Museum and Baltimore Museum of Art are on Charles Street, too. Numerous art supply stores (where I occasionally shop!) populate the blocks surrounding UB.

But art at UB means more. The halls of UB's buildings are lined with art by local artists, including etchings from Baltimore's 300-year history and modern abstract art from more recent years. The displays, some of them hidden in far off corners, are a valuable resource UB should promote more.

UB Hosts 2nd Housing Fair

Hey Everyone,

I hope you had a great weekend... I most certainly did as I had to work on Saturday and spend the afternoon hosting students, friends and parents as they checked out the best in Mid-Town Housing in the area. Being such a hot day, it was great to know that these complexes had great central air.
We had over 30 students searching for housing in the area and you know the Complexes were out to please! But I must award Sutton Place Apartments the 1st place award, call me biased but let's be honest when you're welcomed with great relaxing music in the lobby, to cold energy drink (on a burning hot day) and some cookies and snacks to munch on by the property manager herself - what more could you ask for!?!? To top that off, she adds that they are offering $100 off your monthly rent for your first year on top of a 5% discount they offer all UB Students if you filled out an application that day - that's the point where you don't care so much about how the apartments look and get to filling out the application.
With that said PAB was looking great, being that it's a brand new building and I must say many students and parents were impressed with the style and feel of the building.
A big shoutout to our great UB Shuttle drivers, I along with the guests that day appreciated their assistance and enthusiasm throughout the day and they did pick up after pick up and drop off after drop off.
Overall it was a great way to kick off my weekend, and had a relaxing evening and Sunday.
My question to you today is: Would you consider living in the Mid-town area if you had a free option to get out of your current living contracts/agreements?

The UB Billiards Tournament starts today... feel free to stop by and watch some of the games (the schedule can be found here). I play Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.

Have a great week!!!

History In the Making--Your Photos!

Good Morning UB (or whatever time of day you're reading this),

I'd like to send out a quick WOW to all of you who sent in your photos of life around UB and Mount Vernon over the past week. Definitely some cool stuff going on! If you don't see your photos here this week, look for them throughout the rest of the summer.

Today's submissions start with the big picture: the monuments and icons that have come to define UB Midtown. Rounds of applause go to Sarah Brown for the modern submissions and to Aiden Faust of UB Special Collections for the historical perspective.

Anyone interested in more historical print or photo work is encouraged to search UB's archives at http://archives.ubalt.edu/photographs.htm. I also recommend the Maryland Historical Society's online collection at http://www.mdhs.org/.

To send in more of your photos, email as an attachment to jason.ubblog@gmail.com

Artscape comes to UB; plus a few ponderings from a long-time part-time student

Need something to do next weekend? Artscape 2009 is happening on the campus of UB and the surrounding area on July 17, 18, and 19. If you're not familiar with Artscape, it's touted as America's largest free arts festival and features everything from crafts to music, with sculptures, photography, children's entertainment, art cars, lots of food, and much more thrown in between. Check it out.

On another note: as we approach the middle of the summer, my thoughts are already looking to the fall. This is the time of year I always start second guessing my fall schedule. Since I've been here at UB, I've been nervous about taking more than two classes a semester, and even though I sign up for three, I usually end up dumping one just before the semester starts, mainly because I'm not sure I can juggle the study load, the commute, my home life, and my job.

This year, I'm determined to speed up the process by taking three plus an internship (which will take place in conjuction with my job). I know that I'll reconsider this over and over again in the next few weeks, and probably end up dumping a class. I've been at this going on six years now (not counting the umpteen on-again, off-again years prior), and I don't think it will ever end.

Of course, the real question is what is really holding me back? Is it a fear of actually graduating and finding that it doesn't really make that much of a difference? Or that I have to find a way to make it worthwhile? Will I have the energy or motivation to continue on for my master's? Should I bother? After all, I have a great job already, one where I don't need a degree.

I'm an English/Writing major, and someone once asked me if I was going to "use" my degree after I graduated. (Of course I plan to, I just don't know how at this time.) So here's another question: am I wasting my time, not to mention my money? My son will be going to college in another year. Can I afford that as well?

These are the questions that keep me up at night. Anyone else ever feel this way?

Air Conditioning and Classroom Performance

Most of the time that I go into a classroom, I don't notice much about the temperature; it's "room temperature," so there's nothing much to speak of. Sometimes, however, I'll enter a classroom and whether I notice it right away or not, realize that it's too warm or cold, causing me to feel drowsy or distracted.

It's certainly not the most pressing of issues, but it can make the act of paying attention to the professor all that more difficult. Anyone else experience this? Any thoughts about how this could be fixed or if it's worth the trouble?

Feel free to share.

Blessing in Disguise

Approximately two months ago, I took the Hypermedia Proficiency Examination for the prerequisite for Doctorate of Communication and Design program. In 1993, I started obtaining web skills using programs such as Microsoft FrontPage and Macromedia DreamWeaver. I had written many web pages and was even a webmaster for several websites.

However, my experience didn't include xhtml or using CSS. Before going into the entrance exam, I spent two weeks reviewing the exam and learning CSS. When I went into the exam, I was confident that I had spent enough time learning the skills needed to pass the exam. Well, I failed the exam and I knew it once I left the classroom. I left very disappointed and discouraged. The test results were relayed and I was told I needed to complete PBDS 660: Hypermedia class. Once I got over the initial shock of failing the exam, I welcomed the challenge of taking the class.

I can honestly say after starting this class on May 26th, this was a blessing in disguise. I needed to learn the new methods of creating web pages and understanding using the standards of CSS. If you are able to take this course, I would strongly advise you to do so. My skills were older and needed to be polished. This course has provided the skills necessary to create standardized web pages using xhtml and css. The instructor is laid back and is extremely knowledgeable. So even though two months ago I wasn't sure what to expect; I now know this course was a definite blessing in disguise.

Books, Glorious Books...

Not much to report here... A week into July, almost a fortnight, and I am really ready for the Fall term to begin. Apparently I need more structure than I would have guessed.

Also, though, I'm excited about the books. Partly this is because I am a total unrepentant book junkie, as anyone who has been to my house can tell you. Speaking of which, I must highly recommend a couple of books -- not everything I've read this summer, because a) that would be ridiculous, and b) most of them are part of my overwhelming Civil War nerdfest, but a couple.

First, Last Night in Montreal, by Emily Mandel.

Second, City of Thieves, by David Benioff.

Just read them.

Anyway. So I can't wait for the books this fall. The second part of why...

Well.

In the happy confines of the Creative Writing & Publishing Arts program, we are fortunate enough to have instructors who for the most part eschew the tired old canon. Across all our genres, we read the Important Old Stuff, and the new stuff the profs think is important. This makes everything more vital and vibrant, in my opinion.

It's especially thrilling because this is NOT the case at every school in Baltoville.

I won't tell you which other school I visited recently, soley for the purpose of checking out their writing program's shelves in the student bookstore. But I will tell you that I was startled by how out of date the books seemed -- yes, they were classics, mostly, but they were the same old classics that writing programs have used for DECADES.

I was already glad that I'd ended up at UB for any number of reasons, many of which I have mentioned in these fine glowing pages, but standing there in the bookstore looking at the vast array of The Same Old People... It made me extra pleased to be here, among writers who believe that writing is organic and changing and fluid.

Of course I'll keep myself occupied until Fall -- I have my award project to address, for one thing, not to mention the ever thrilling LOOK FOR JOB, but... But I'm psyched for Fall. For the titles my instructors use to make their points this time.

And anyway, who isn't glad for an excuse to hit the bookstore?

The End is Near

The semester is almost over and most of us can't wait until we can do the things we wish we could have done all summer long. Taking Spring classes and then rolling right into a Summer semester is a hard thing to do. If you have done this please give yourself a pat on the back! You have done a really good job getting through the semesters! I know I cant wait to come home from a long day of work and watch television, chill with my dog, or read a book I can enjoy. All summer long I have been on a tight schedule and have really learned how to manage my time. It has been hard but worth getting these two classes out of the way. One class in particular the teacher seems to be a really hard grader but my fingers are crossed and I am hoping for the best. As soon as classes are done be sure to treat yourselves to something you love, and take your time to relax because before we know it Fall will be here!

Campus Crime

I was surprised when checking my UB email this week to discover a link to UB’s Crime Alerts page. Apparently, within the last few weeks, 2 crimes have occurred in the neighborhood surrounding UB; one assault and robbery and another armed assault and robbery. Crime around college campuses is unfortunately nothing new. I may be naïve but I’ve been under the impression that I’m pretty safe walking around the UB neighborhood.

Many of us take night classes and have to walk to our cars or walk home in the dark. So, how do we protect ourselves without being paranoid? I’ve gathered some campus safety tips to help us all be more aware:

· Survey the campus after dark to see that buildings, walkways, quadrangles and parking lots are adequately secured, lighted and patrolled.
· Avoid walking alone if possible.
· Walk with an air of confidence and stay alert.
· Walk in lighted areas.
· Keep your hand free, not overloaded.
· Have your keys ready.
· If you are being followed: cross the street, scream, run to an occupied residence or store, or flag down a car.

Better to be safe then sorry. Especially in these tough economic times when money is hard to come by, robberies are becoming much more common. I’m guiltier than anyone of walking and talking on my cell phone rather than paying attention to the people around me. But by talking a few precautions, we may prevent crimes from happening to ourselves and others.

Green UB

The University of Baltimore gets greener. At the end of last month, the University announced a new green roof was being installed on the law school. This roof offers stormwater management, oxygen generation, and will help cool the building during those Baltimore Augusts we love so much. This is the latest in several steps UB has taken to be more sustainable. As UB is building a new structure for the law school, replacing a parking lot, there is another opportunity for the University to get even greener.

Now when will UB let me hold a picnic up there?

Happy Birthday America

Hey Everyone,

So I apologize for the delayed post but aparently my work load has really thrown off my planned schedule from the beginning of the summer. But don't get me wrong, having a work load is usually a good sign that there's stuff keeping you busy, therefore confirming the importance of you remaining on the job. (Trust me I love the work load, and my boss too) - You definitely got those in whenever you get a chance ;)

So July 4th was two days ago... I didnt get a chance to go see the fire works, but I did have a great evening on Friday, but would rather not go into the details - but I got to appreciate Fells Point, Federal Hill and the Canton area a little more than I did. I reached the conclusion that after Friday, I'd give Baltimore a chance with my night/social life.

Bought a new gril, and was out on the grill on Saturday. We had corn on the cob, Ribs, Drumsticks, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs... you name it - we had it. So I spent my July 4th weekend with Friends and Family.

How did you spend your July 4th?

Send Me Your Photos and "Overheards"

What's up UB family and random people that love reading this blog?

Two weeks ago, I put out a call for people to send me photos they had taken around UB and Mount Vernon. Well, so far, the response has been POOR. So this week, I'm opening it up again. BTW, please try to avoid pics with people in it that are not you, and keep the pics PC! Thanks.

ALSO, now introducing the option to send in things you heard around campus that amused/confused/shocked/intrigued you. This should sound familiar to anyone that has read the "Overheard in NYC" blog.

So yeah, there we are. Good luck eavesdropping.

UB wins two more awards!

We forget sometimes, as we shuffle from class to class focusing on the next paper or exam, the wonderful projects that are born and cultivated right here at UB. For example, I just discovered that UB recently received two awards, the Award of Merit & the WOW award, from the American Association of State and Local Historians for the "Baltimore '68: Riots and Rebirth" project. The awards are actually the second time UB has been recognized for this outstanding project. In February, the National Council on Public History honored UB with its highest recognization: Outstanding Public History Project Award. Pretty impressive.

I was eight years old in 1968 and even though I lived only a short distance away in Catonsville, I have no recollection of the turmoil that was happening less than 10 miles away from my home. My parents never discussed the civil rights movement with me; I guess parents just didn't discuss that sort of thing back then. Thankfully there are people who are determined to keep history alive, no matter how unpleasant or uncomfortable that history may be. Kudos to UB and those who worked on the project for never letting us forget.

"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again." Maya Angelou

BTW: This is only one of many historical records which can be found in the Langsdale Library's Special Collections. Check it out...you'll be amazed by what you'll find.

Majors - Sweating the Details

So maybe you've already chosen your major and you've even gotten a start on it. But what about the details? Some things that may be wise to look into are just what your major entails; not just the major itself, but what it means in today's job market. What is the demand for the career you're going into? What is the general pay? How does the university's major relate to specific jobs that need to be filled?

These and other questions are important whether you're choosing your major, you're already studying it, or you've graduated and are looking for a job. Such research can be invaluable when it comes time to start your career and the better prepared you are, the less need there is to worry and the better you can focus on learning your profession - in short, the less need to sweat the details.

Culture Opportunities

Last week was pretty tough with a lot of decisions that I wish I could do over. I had the distinct honor of meeting the Dean of a Dental School from another country. He was very knowledgeable and seemed sincerely interested in my presentation. At the end of the meeting, I put my hand out to shake his hand and he politely smiled and put his hands behind his back. I wasn't quite sure what I did wrong at the time but I was sure I did something. Later that day I found out that men from his country are not allowed to shake a woman's hand. I really wish I would have known that information before I extended my hand out to him. It was a uncomfortable situation for everyone.

But what I realized is how lucky and fortunate I am to live in a place where women are equal and respected. Yes, we still are not seen completely equal and we still struggle for our equal rights on some levels. But when I look at my mother and grandmother's career and educational opportunities, I think we are blessed to be anyone we want to be. So, sometimes even uncomfortable cultural opportunities can help us see how fortunate we are to live in a place where we are free.

Hither, Thither, and Yon

Hello folks.

So I'm back from the Adventure. Exhausted, but glad to be home...mostly.

Highlights of the Adventure included:

-- Foamhenge, the life-size Styrofoam rendering of, well, Stonehenge, put together just south of Lexington VA by a well-intentioned but slightly crazy guy. Kudos to him for using an amazing piece of land for this, and not for a ghastly McMansion.

-- The Angel from Thomas Wolfe's Look Homeward, Angel, in Hendersonville, NC. Not only is it stirring and lovely (and literary), but the headstone IMMEDIATELY in front of it is for a young North Carolina soldier who died at Sharpsburg (Antietam, for those of you who think in Northern terms). This is excellent for my purposes, given that Our Hero was also a North Carolina soldier at Sharpsburg.

-- A Warbird flight with my Uncle Joe, who took us up over Hendersonville in his WWII plane, which was a huge delight.

-- The battlefields in the greater Chattanooga area, including Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, and Lookout Mountain. Although it was 98 degrees and 9000% humidity, we staggered bravely amongst the monuments and landmarks, had an intriguing Ranger lecture, and generally learned a lot.

and last, but not least,

DINOSAURLAND!! I don't have a picture -- have not yet taken everything out of the camera -- but boy howdy, it was weird. Here is the link for it.

Anyway, it was a great trip. Now I can get to writing (or planning more research adventures...), and start planning for the Fall.

More soon, avid readers.