Sunday, April 24, 2011
The Summing Up
If you are reading this, congratulations, you made it to the end of the semester. Now tell us what you learned, not just in this class mind you (though that is, of course a part of your learning experience) but in every part of your life, both in school and out. How have you grown, shrunk, changed, stayed the same? And, most of all, what lessons do you want to pass along to the rest of us. As usual, 250 word post up by Thursday night (4/28) and 100 word response up by Sunday night (5/1).
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First of all I cannot believe how fast this first year of college has gone by. I feel like it was just last week when I was packing up all of my things and moving across the country to Florida from Oregon. I think I have learned more things about myself this year than anything else. I have learned that I am a lot stronger than I thought I was. I have learned that my family is the most important thing in my life and I know I can always count on them no matter how far away they may be. I have learned that one bad grade in a class should not be treated like the end of the world. I have learned that I don’t need to know exactly what I want to do with my life right now. I have learned to have fun every day and appreciate all of the amazing people I have met this year. I have learned so much and know that I will continue to learn every year after this. Some advice that I would give to the rest of the people in this class is to really be grateful for everything in your life right at this moment. People get busy and don’t take the time to be thankful. Things change quickly and you don’t want to regret not thinking about everything you are thankful for. Also, don’t stress out about the little things. This is something that has been hard for me this year because of all of the things going on around me and all of the big changes. But it’s not worth it to stress over a bad grade on an assignment or an argument with a friend because there are so many more other big things to worry about.
ReplyDeleteIt feels good to make it through the semester! I have learned a lot about time management. Some times you get so many assignments due on the same day and you have to pace your self and finish them all. I have learned how to structure my essay in an appropriate way and how to fully develop my argument out. In other classes I learned about phospholipids and enzymes, which I will probably forget about my next semester. There are some class I feel will really help me in the future and others that wont. I know I will constantly be writing essays and papers throughout my entire life, especially since I want to be a screenwriter. But I cant think of a time I am going to bring phospholipids up in a conversation unless I make one the characters in my movie a bio major or teacher. Advice I would pass on is don’t feel overwhelmed by the amount of work that you have, just take it one step at a time. Block out and hour or two for each subject; I pick on day on the weekend to wake up at seven am and do a lot of my homework that way I will be done by the time my friends wake up. I feel I have grown because I am not cramming in assignments last minute like I use to do in high school. I take the time to fully concentrate on my work, which gets me better grades.
ReplyDeleteTo Katie F.
ReplyDeleteI know freshmen year flew by. I feel like it was last month when I was moving in to my room! Without family it is hard to get through school and life. You have a lot of time to think about your future. Take classes that interest you and sooner or after you will figure out which path in life is best for you. That is really true the old saying is true you never know what you had until its gone. Most of my friends stress out over the smallest stuff and its so funny because what are they going to when they have major assignments to complete? One bad grade wont kill you, you just have to do a lot better on the next assignment.
To Rees:
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you on the fact that it feels so good to finally be done with this semester. I have found that I was forced to figure out time management early last semester because of the crazy amount of work I had for my classes. Although I didn’t most assignments too difficult, there was just a large quantity of work. It is good to know that I am not the only one that gets up early on the weekends to do homework. That is the time that I feel like I get the most work done without the stress of having to go to class during the day.
What I've learned this semester is really not academic at all. I've learned that I can be on my own, and I can still excel. However, I've also learned that I don't have to be so far away in order to excel either. I learned that being so far away can come with complications.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately I lost my Aunt last Tuesday, and getting home for her funeral was extremely complicated. Money on such a short notice was a problem. I had decided prior to this happening that I was going to transfer home, but this has taught me that being a little closer to home really can't hurt. I have too many people in my family that are sick or elderly, and I'm not willing to miss out the time I have left with them.
I originally had this picture of perfection in my mind, as comes with a naive person that hasn't lost a member of the family for fifteen years, but now I know that bad things do really happen. It's hard to admit, and probably equally hard to explain, but with everything that I've gone through this semester in regards to family has made me grow in a way that I never really wanted to grow. I've learned that family comes first. Some may not agree with me, but this is what I need to do for myself.
What I would want everyone to learn from this is that they need to listen to what they think is right for them. Some may not think that my reasons for leaving aren't good ones, but their my good reasons. People have to do what they need to for themselves.
@Katie Faunce
ReplyDeleteI think it's great that you've learned so much about yourself, and I definitely agree with how fast this year has gone. It's so hard to believe that it's almost over. It is true that one bad grade isn't the end of the world, even though I'm still working on how to get over it when I don't do as well as I wanted to. Not sweating the small stuff is something that I learned this year too. There is so much more to worry about in the world, why make yourself crazier than you already need to be?
This year as gone by extremely fast, I used to think high school went by fast but it seems like this year turned into 2 months. I have learned a lot my freshman year at University of Tampa. I think I have become a stronger person this year. First of all I learned how I have to be able to manage my schoolwork, social life, and being on a college sports team. It is a lot to handle all at once and to be able to balance everything and keep sane. I have also learned a lot in my classes that I have taken over the last two semesters; I believe my English writing skills have improved greatly because of FYW. Also the chance to take communication classes has made me decide on majoring in communications with a minor in advertising. I think I also learned a lot about myself this semester and the type of person I am able to be. I do not think that I have changed or anything from how I was last year, but I do know that I have grown up as a person and learned a lot about the people I surrounded myself with and the choices that I make. I do not regret one thing from this year. I believe it was an awesome first year of college and cannot wait for fall to come so everything can start all over again. I think the most important lesson to pass a long would to defiantly just always be yourself and don’t change for anyone but you. That everyone should enjoy college to their fullest potential but always make sure to balance all the tasks set before them, and to have fun!
ReplyDeleteto Katie:
ReplyDeleteKatie I totally agree with you when you say this year as gone by super fast, it is absolutely crazy how time flies and all of a sudden our first year of college is almost over. I think that’s really good that your family is so important to you, and it is great that you always know you have their support in situations. I agree when you say that you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do with your life, I think a lot of people truly don’t know what they want and we still have time to figure out our path we want to take. I think your advice is very helpful it is true that people take little things for granted and I know I appreciate everything that I am able to have. Stress is also a factor that I have to deal with but it is true not to get so worked up over small things that are able to be fixed later, stressing over it wont help in the end.
One of the major things I learned this semester and over this whole first year as a whole is that change is inevitable. Right after I moved in to my dorm here last semester, my parents moved six hours away from my hometown. Now when I go home, I return to a foreign area where I am secluded without friends. I am not even good with getting a new hairbrush let alone moving to a brand new area. I had a really difficult time adjusting to this change and I am still adjusting. I have only lived in that house for the month over winter break and I am not sure how I will cope over the summer. I know that this change is for the better of my family and I support the decision, but it is still very tough, especially when it feels like nobody can relate to your situation. I felt very alone at the beginning of the year, not even able to turn to my old friends from home. I am gradually adjusting though. Being at college makes adjusting even easier, since I am able to focus my time on schoolwork. However, being here has allowed me to learn even more in terms of coping with different situations and people. Adjusting to roommates and having to deal with them at times when you most want to be alone might have been the biggest growth area for me. I find myself much more tolerable than I used to be and this is most likely due to forcing myself to be rational in the stickiest of situations.
ReplyDeleteIt’s crazy that I’ve been through an entire year of college already. This year I’ve grown so much as a person and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve begun a path that is pushing me further and further away from my fears of becoming something I don’t want to be. I’ve proved to myself that I can excel in whatever I put effort into. I have finally turned into that kid we all used to wonder as to why they were mad that they got a B and not an A on an assignment. It’s something I’ve always had in me, I just never put forth any effort. It’s amazing when you go from having a 2.95 gpa in high school because I never did anything, to having a 3.9 as a result of applying myself. Another thing that I’ve learned is that I just really have zero idea what I want to major in and I really need to figure it out soon. It’s tough that they make us decide what we want to do for the rest of our lives when we are so young. I also learned not to take things for granted. Life is completely unpredictable and throws things at you fast. Something you have today might be gone tomorrow so you really need to be thankful each and every day. For example, sure I complain about having a roommate that isn’t very clean but I know things could be much worse. I’ve really enjoyed my time here at UT and I look forward to what the future has in store for me.
ReplyDelete@Amber Farhner
ReplyDeleteThis year really did go by extremely fast, it’s absolutely insane. I think that it’s great that you were able to become a stronger person and balance everything. That is something that a lot of people struggle with their first year of college and to be able to say you achieved that is remarkable. Its’ really cool that you were able to pick your major and minor after taking classes on the subjects, that’s something that I’m having trouble deciding. I agree 100% that you shouldn’t change for anyone, it’s really important to be yourself and figure some things out on your own in life.
I really can’t believe how fast this year has gone by. I have enjoyed my time here so far, and feel I have learned a lot both inside and outside of the classroom. I have been fortunate enough to have some great teachers that have taught me a lot about subjects, such as economics and psychology, that I never knew anything about before. I have also learned a lot just by living on my own, far away from home. Although I miss my family and friends a lot, this experience has made me appreciate them even more. Staying in contact with them and knowing that they’ll always be there for me really helps. Two really important things I have learned, like some of you already mentioned, are time management and not worrying about the little things. In order to be happy and successful, I feel these things are key. Having a good balance between school, work, and social life is hard, but I have continued to learn about how to manage my time in order to not let them interfere. In the past, I would worry a lot and sometimes tried to be a perfectionist. But now I have realized that in the big picture, something like a bad grade is not a big deal. I have learned to not think about the past and to continue moving forward. Since I’m sure the next three years will go by just as fast as this once has, I am really going to try to enjoy and appreciate every single day.
ReplyDeleteTo Amber:
ReplyDeleteI agree that we have learned a lot from FYW, and my writing has definitely improved. I also agree that a lot of what I learned this year was about myself and the type of person I am. This year has been a great experience both inside and outside of the classroom. Having the opportunity to be here in Florida has been great. I also think it’s very important to have fun while also be able to balance homework, studying, social life, and extracurricular activities. I am also looking forward to coming back next fall and being able to put all of the lessons I learned into action, and enjoying the next three years.
I thought high schools years flew by, but that is nothing compared to how fast my first year at college flew by. Even though there is only a week left of school, I don’t feel like I’m leaving to go home in a week. I guess it hasn’t hit me yet. The biggest thing I learned this year would have to be time management. With so much time throughout the day to do whatever you want, time can get away from you. I remember back in September I was amazed at how much time I had during the week and some times I would get bored and not know what to do. That changed real quickly once the workload started piling up. I was so used to being in school for 6 straight hours in high school, but now I was in class for 1 or 2 hours then nothing to do until my next class hours later. I realized getting homework done during the day and being able to get a good sleep instead of staying up late to do work is much better. I also learned I have to study so much more for tests than I did in high school. I used to practically skim over the material the night before compared to what I have to do now. College material goes so much more in depth than anything we were tested on in high school. Now I start studying days or weeks before a test, maybe even review right after we get lectured on the material. This has helped a lot. Nothing works better to memorize things than repetition, so just read it over any chance you get, even if you’re test is weeks away.
ReplyDeleteTo Rees,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, I hate when you are sitting in a class and you know you could be doing something better with your time like learning about something you will use every day in your career. I guess it is just adding to our wealth of knowledge that we walk away with when we graduate, if you want to look at it in a positive way? I think it is great that you get your homework done ahead of time on the weekends. I just don’t understand how you can get up that early, especially on a weekend. The only chance I get to sleep in is on the weekends, so I wish I could do that like you but I doubt it will happen anytime soon. I would get so much more done that way though. I also have learned to not procrastinate this year…thankfully. In high school, especially senior year, I would wait to do most things the night before they were due. Now it is just impossible to do that. I am forced to get whatever I can done whenever I have the time to, just to be able to hand it all in on time.
We had our last writing class this morning, and it finally woke me up to the realization that this semester, along with my freshman year, is coming to an abrupt end. Up until this morning I was in complete denial that I have five papers, a presentation, and three final exams in my way of summer. This semester is definitely harder than the fall because I’m taking a full 18 credits and my extracurriculars were somewhat overwhelming at times. I have learned a lot and all my hard work has, for the most part, paid off. Unfortunately, I don’t think my grades will be as pretty as they were last semester, nor will my GPA, but it was a challenge that I benefited from in the long run. FYW 102 has taught me a lot about time management and how to avoid procrastination. The MIOP was a challenge and there was a clear difference in difficulty from FYW 101. Overall, I am happy with how my freshman year went and I have no regrets. School is tough and dealing with homesickness, financial stress, a pile of homework and trying to find time for friends all the while trying to figure out who you are is a lot to deal with. My plan for the future is to continue to work hard and take things day by day while continuing to enjoy what I’m doing.
ReplyDeleteTo my classmates I wish you all the best of luck in your college career as well as in everything you do in the future. Remember to take time to distress and have fun and above all stay happy. Whatever you end up becoming or doing make sure you’re happy and healthy!
To Craig:
ReplyDeleteI like how you mentioned not worrying about the little things. It’s so true that those things that just don’t matter are usually what get to us the most. Learning to brush them off is a really important lesson. Also, moving forward is key to becoming better. While its important to learn from past mistakes, being able to accept them and move on from them without letting them hold you back is something that even most adults don’t know how to do. We should all be most concerned about our personal happiness and well-being and less concerned with money or having the most advanced technology. It sounds like you’ve got the important stuff figured out so I wish you luck with everything and hope that you keep your values and apply them. Don’t let trying to be the best or being perfect get in the way of what really matters in the end. Have a great summer!!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMy first year in college proved to be quite a challenge in certain areas. My overall experience was wonderful. The main downfall for this year was my roommate issues which affected e mentally and I saw it affecting my performance throughout my academics. I was a learning experience for me as I realized that I have to stay focus and not stress too much about other people since I am attending college for my benefit, not theirs. All my classes were enjoyable and the Professor’s were enthusiastic about their subjects. Throughout this year I have had to transition myself from the high school environment to that of a college student. I realized that the classes are longer, fewer assignments are given, however they carry a tremendous amount of weight, and the professors are more approachable and want to help you to succeed in life. I am usually a shy person, but now that I am in college, I am able to venture out of my shell and still be myself. I have made new friends, relationships with faculty and staff and grew into a position of leadership as a PEACE Volunteer Coordinator. Using my strengths to help me throughout this year wasn’t a challenge. The lessons that I can pass down to everyone else is to stay true to you. College should not change who you are, but allow you to embrace yourself as a mature person. It should also help you to better your skills and to discover new ones.
ReplyDeleteTo Katie Faunce:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Everyone should take the time out to consider how fortunate and blessed they are. We have all exceeded in some area that we are all proud for. One bad grade in class does not make you a failure. We have 3 more years to prove to ourselves that we can make that 4.0 GPA with vast determination. In the long run it may seem difficult, but the outcome with be gratifying. I tend to stress a lot, but I realize that in reality, things don’t last forever and we have to face certain obstacles because they are part of our path to success.
In response to Katie:
ReplyDeleteI cannot agree with you more – this year has flown by so quickly! I can relate to many of the things that you have learned. Most of all, I too have learned that my family is the most important thing in my life. I loved the advice that you gave. It is true, people tend to get caught up in the rush of their own lives and don’t take as much time for others as they should.
Not stressing about the little things is so important when trying to survive college. It is the only way that a student can stay sane!
Enjoy your summer - have a safe and fun one!
I cannot believe that this school year is over. Time has honestly flown by. This year was very exciting for me as it was my first year attending UT. I feel that I have grown and matured a lot this year. Being an international student, I had to leave home and move to a new country – which isn’t always the easiest thing. Leaving home was hard, but I believe it was the best decision I’ve made. I have met so many new people from all over the world here at UT. I’ve experienced many new things and a different way of living. The Canadian culture that I live in is much different to the one here in Tampa.
ReplyDeleteBeing a part of the tennis team here at UT has taught me a lot about others and myself. My teamwork skills have improved greatly and I feel that I am better able to work with others. I feel that I am a very independent person, but having to rely on my teammates at times has taught me to let loose a little. I enjoyed being on the team and having the chance to experience the life of a college athlete.
I have learned a lot from my FYW102 class. I feel much more confident in my writing skills and also my reading skills. I enjoyed doing the social action project the most out of the course as it gave me the opportunity to raise awareness about an issue that I feel very strongly about.
The best advice that I can give is to not sweat the small stuff. My motto this year has been “it’s college, everything always works out” – this has been true in so many cases.
I will definitely miss Tampa over the summer.
I cannot believe that my first year of college is shortly coming to an end. Where does the time go?! It seems like just yesterday I was saying goodbye to my family as I stayed over night in my new dorm room for the first time. This experience is definitely surreal. Going from high school where you live at home and you have your parents to lean on for everything, to going to a school a plane ride with a million responsibilities and experiences that you know have to go through and deal with on your own. It is definitely a learning experience, and the start to a new chapter of your life. Some points are harder then others, but you just have to learn how to stay strong and over come your obstacles. My hometown is New Jersey. I decided that Florida is where I wanted to reside for school because of the warm weather and the beautiful atmosphere. All throughout my life I have always been so close to my family, I knew it was going to be a struggle going far but I was ready for the challenge. I soon came to realize that unfortunately it was just too far from home, and I am making the decision to leave this University and transfer closer to home. Although it did not work out, it was an experience I will never forget. The friendships and bonds I have made throughout this year will stay with me as I move on to the next chapter in my life.
ReplyDeleteIf you haven’t noticed from my presentation today (Wednesday), I have officially become a proud member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Incorporated. The member education program I was taking part in began at the end of January and it has honestly taught me so much, not just about the organization I am now a part of, but also about myself and what I am capable of accomplishing. Balancing this, school work, family, my job, and volunteer hours was not an easy thing to do, but I’ve found that it is possible. I’ve learned that I am able to manage my time much more efficiently now, that I have the capability to overcome large obstacles, and have even learned how to depend on others when work in groups, which is something I rarely did before. I feel as if I have bettered myself as an individual and will able to help others more efficiently now as well. As far as classes go, however, I have learned the formats of how to point out and disprove a bad argument in Logic, and expanded my literary knowledge thanks to my English course which has covered various topics discussed by women authors. Overall, I feel as if this has been a very productive semester, but I am still ready for it to be over so I can enjoy my summer :)
ReplyDeleteTo sw:
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you as far as you college attendance being for your personal benefit. It is always important to remember to put yourself first from time to time, especially when dealing with your education and that is a concept my mother instilled in me early in life. I too considered myself shy upon my arrival at UT, however I also feel as if I have learned to stand up for myself and my beliefs in an effective way. And you’re completely right—college shouldn’t change who you are. It should help you discover new things about yourself and give you the opportunity to grow. As far as your position in PEACE, congratulations and I hope to be working with you in the future.
The biggest thing I can say I've learned is to enjoy even the smallest amount of time to yourself. Even if its only an hour or even half of that, any time spent just enjoying yourself takes a great amount of stress out of your life. If you take time for yourself, to enjoy life as is without worrying about everything else you've got coming down the road, it makes it a lot easier to enjoy college life. So much stuff is thrown at you in a such a short span of time, it's easy to get caught up in school work and drama. If you take time out of your day to forget about it and focus on you, it functions as a great stress reliever and allows you to return to that homework or whatever it is with an open mind. It also helps to keep you from getting dragged under in everything you have to do. Sometimes the semester can be too much for someone to handle, but if you take the time to appreciate the small breaks you get, it makes it much easier to handle, and ultimately finish. While I've grown as a person, I've also come to cherish those small moments when you can just take a break from life. It has definitely made it easier to handle all the assignments and honestly, it's helped to deal with studying for finals as well. Sometimes, it's just better to forget about everything you have to do within the next week and take time to enjoy that 20 minute break you give yourself between study sessions.
ReplyDeleteI definitely would say I have grown a lot throughout this year, as it is my first year away from home. More than anything, I have learned a lot about people and myself. I have met some very “unique” people at the University of Tampa, and realized what bothers me, what I need to work at, and what I’m interested in. I say that I’ve learned about myself more now, because I am hanging out with completely new friends in Tampa who notice things that my friends back home see all the time (my habits, my humor, etc.).The whole idea sounds a bit weird, but I think it’s true.
ReplyDeleteIn school, I had a heavy course load in my first semester. I took two general science courses, a math class, and a bunch of requirement classes. I was really challenged in my science classes, and I was stressed out, but I learned time management. Some of my classes also helped me realize what I do not want to do in the future or pursue as a college major.
If I could give a lesson I’ve learned at this school, I’d say just stay true to yourself, and go after what will make you happy in the future. I have met kids at this school and have spoken with friends from home who have taken a 360, and threw their morals out the window since college has begun. I swear sometimes I’m talking to completely different people, and most of it is because everyone is trying to fit in. So party when your school work is done, and don’t change for someone else. Also, don’t go into a career if you don’t think you will enjoy it!
This year I have not only succeeded academically but emotionally. In school I have learned this semester exactly what I want to do in my life and I want to share it with the world. I have shared to people the ideas of public health and what it is exactly. Just a quick tip public health people are the people who try to keep you and your life safe. It can range from anything from diseases all the way to make sure you don’t get into a car crash. These people are usually behind the scenes and you may never even know they are doing things to help you. The idea is to make people as healthy as possible so they don’t even need to go to the doctor or prevent you from going to the hospital. With this being lowered, costs to the doctors will decrease! I think if people just learn this there is so much that can be accomplished. With learning this it has helped me grow to a completely new level. I feel as if my mind has expanded this semester and I feel very accomplished. Also, I realized what I want to do after I finish college. I realized that I want to do work and study for a year. I will travel around to different countries and working instead of going right into a job. All of this is contributing to what I said at the beginning of the year, enjoy life and live it to the fullest.
ReplyDeleteTo Schowanec:
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean by first semester. I had exactly the same problems. I had science, math and English classes which unfortunately I didn’t learn time management very well. It’s good to hear that you did though. I also changed my mind about what I want from school and what I want to do the rest of my life. I completely agree when you say stay true to yourself because these are the years we need to discover who we are and what we want. If we don’t figure that out then we will never move forward in life and enjoy it.
It is so weird to be reading the last blog post of the semester when it feels like just yesterday I was writing a blog post for the first time. If I look back to that blog from January I remember we had to talk about goals we wanted to set for ourselves and what we wanted to accomplish this semester and from that I learned a lot. I learned it was a good idea to stay organized and relaxed and with taking eighteen credits it was a good idea to do so. I found myself at points wanting to give up but with the mentality I have established while being on my own, I did not allow myself to. I also learned more about myself this semester than the last and found my place here at the university. I realized who are good people to be associated with and those who are not. I think this semester flew by so fast for me because I allowed myself to actually enjoy college without hiding my head inside of a book and constantly worry about my grades. Not saying I cared about my social life more than my school work, because that was not the case at all, I just gave myself time to have fun and relax.The work this semester was harder than expected and I had to put more effort into it then I was planning on doing. Freshman year flew by and it is scary to see that and realize I have three years left of college. But if I had to leave one piece of advice I would say, keep calm and relaxed in tough situations and you can accomplish whatever you put your mind to.
ReplyDeleteTo Ashley.Sisley
ReplyDeleteI would have to agree with you that alone time is definitely needed in college. Usually I take an hour a day to run if possible and it makes the rest of my day go so much better. I feel much less stressed. If I cannot find the time to do this, I’ll take an hour break from schoolwork. I think this is especially important during the last few weeks of school, when stress is at an all-time high. Without taking time to relax, I get burnt out within a few days. I completely understand the need to be alone, especially when it’s difficult being around people constantly.
I honestly can't believe how quick this year has flew. It feels like yesterday that I just first got off the plane from New York to Florida and welcomed to UT by my ELITE mentors. Where has the time gone? Well within this year I definitely think that I've learned so many things and know that there is just more lessons waiting for me to be learned in the upcoming years. This year though I've definitely managed to incorporate time management beautifully. Yeah, at first it might have been hectic trying to juggle my academics, social, leadership and sorority life but I've accomplished to do everything I committed to. One thing that I learned is that you have to take what life offers you. In college so many opportunities arise and come up and honestly take them. Some may be good or even bad at times but it's the experience that counts. Just live life to the fullest especially in college since we find ourselves getting too caught up in a million things so find time to enjoy and relax what you have. Can't wait to see what the following years will hold.
ReplyDeleteTo Carissa...
ReplyDeleteSnaps to you on becoming a member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Incorporated. I definitely noticed your raised letters in class. I'm sure you're in love with it and doing so many amazing things for the school and outside community. I know exactly how you feel since I did all of that fall semester. I totally agree with your time management theory and how you learned so much valuable stuff from your courses. I know you're looking forward to summer so I hope you have funand enjoy it.
To Mackenzie,
ReplyDeleteI definitely understand how not being able to turn back to old friends who have made your situation harder. Not only were you moving into a foreign area without friends, you were also returning to a foreign area. I commend you on making it through dealing with roommates and this difficult situation that you've been placed in. It will definitely make you a stronger person, since you'll have to learn how to deal with things in places you aren't familiar to. I'm sure you've grown immensely since you've been here since you've had to deal with all of this. Congrats on getting through!
In reply to: Ashley Bernstein,
ReplyDeleteGood for you that you are able to manage your hectic life so well! Being in a sorority I understand how busy it gets at times, and it is hard to figure out what to do first and manage your time properly. That is a great attitude to live life to the fullest everyday. I try to stay positive and live my life like that as well. Good luck with everything that comes your way, and with the sorority, academics and leadership programs! Hopefull I will see you around next year, and have an amazing summer!
It's a little bittersweet having the school year come to an end. I feel I have had a great stride in staying on top of my school work and retaining useful knowledge to apply to my chosen field of study and profession. I think this is the first time I am actually a little bummed to see a semester come to an end. On the other hand it is nice to have that closure and the built up anticipation of what lies ahead. I am looking forward to continuing my degree and moving to new and exciting places. I am moving to Oregon to attend UoO in preparation for graduate school. I moved here from Maine to attend UT and have greatly missed the natural beauty the the NEA coast has to offer. NWP is equally as beautiful. I am also looking forward to the sense of community you find in the cozy coastal towns of the North West. I think the one thing I can take from this experience this past year at UT is from my Vertebrate Zoology course (Bio225) with Dr. Schlueter. This was the last vert zoo class he will ever teach as he is retiring after this semester. It was an honor to have the opportunity to study under him and his passion for biology and years of experience showed through his engaging lectures, labs, and field trips. Professor Breckenridge, thank you. I know feel much more confident in my abilities to write an argumentative essay in multiple formats. I've also learned sometimes getting above a 95 is an impossibility no matter how hard you think you've worked. Within that is a valuable lesson. You always have room for improvement.
ReplyDeleteAshley B,
ReplyDeleteIt seems like you left this semester with a lot of positive advice to carry you through the rest of your time here at UT. I agree, it is important to find time for yourself and do things that keep you sane during the hectic shuffle of the semester's school schedule. Time management is also key. I think the best thing you can do is stay on top of your work load and never put things off until last minute. I have a lot of friends that will write an 8 page paper the night before it's due. That method will ensure you retain nothing from your studies. Why put the time and energy into something that you'll just forget about when you need to apply it to something real and practical in your life or professional career. Well, I wish you the best of luck with your future educational endeavors. It seems like you'll do fine as long as you keep the attitude and work ethic you have now. Have a good summer.
To Corey
ReplyDeleteI think that it is awesome that you are going to Oregon! I have a friend that goes to school there, I think it is Western Oregon, but it is beautiful! I think that you will enjoy that! I miss the seasons from the north so much! I have the same thoughts about picking up and moving on since I don’t know if I’m transferring yet or not, but I would be ready if that’s what it comes down to. It’s good to hear your positive attitude on the situation though, and I wish you the best of luck on the sweet NWP!
It’s good to hear that you had a great teacher who inspired you as well. I definitely agree with you on Professor Breckenridge’s thoughts on improving your work. There is always room for improvement in life, no matter what it is. Those are words of wisdom!
I missed all of the excitement of “the end” of the semester. I have had mono and have been dying in bed for the past week, which probably is not going to help what so ever with regards to my final exams and last minute assignments. Anyway, overall I think I have progressed a lot over this semester, despite this minor setback I am going through right now. This semester has been extremely challenging for me. I was faced with a lot of family issues and emergencies, as well as health issues of my own, but I think I made it through okay considering everything. It is important to be strong in life, and to keep your head help up high. Never let anything or anyone hold you back. Never give up and never call it quits. Do the best you can, and trust me it will go a long way. This is something I have realized. Every little bit of effort counts. As long as you care and can find motivation to do well, you will certainly be able to look at yourself in the mirror and know you did what you could, and you have the right to be proud of yourself.
ReplyDeleteI think I have had a lot of personal growth thanks to this semester. I’ve had a handful of problems that needed to be handled, on top of staying on track with my school work, and maintaining my job. There were a lot of bumps and twists in the road, but I kept pushing on. I’ve learned a lot about myself, which is something that’s important to be able to realize. I’ve come a long way and hopefully I will continue to learn from my experiences.
To Katie Faunce
ReplyDeleteI think it’s great how much you’ve learned about yourself. In my opinion that’s the most important knowledge one can obtain in life. You have to know yourself before you can know anything else. I remember my first year after moving away from home too, and I too realized how much I loved my family. It is more than helpful knowing that your family is always there for you no matter how far apart you may be. Personally, whenever I have a rough day, regardless of what the cause is, the first people I turn to is my family. I also agree with you about having fun and being appreciative of the small things in life. Without either, there isn’t much of a point in life.