Hey everyone, it's another year at Cap! I didn't post right away because I thought you'd want a chance to get to know the first year students. By now, you should..lol..so it's time for MY blog! :-)
I hope you all had a wonderful break. My summer consisted of work, time with family and friends, and occasional trips to Cleveland! It ended so quickly, and now I'm back in class. I'm starting to miss having leizure time! I'm involved in a lot this year, but I'm enjoying myself. I'm currently a Long Term Peer Mentor for the Smooth Transitions Program, as well as an RA in Saylor Ackerman. (Yes! I have my own room and I think it's the bomb!) I moved into my residence hall early for training; running back and forth between RA and Peer Mentor Sessions got a little crazy, but I did the best I could. College will teach you time management, if nothing else! I didn't get to attend as much of Smooth Transitions as I wanted to, but I'm trying to make up for that with my mentees now. I had a great time at all of the sessions. My favorite part of Peer Mentor training was when we went to Denison. The campus there is beautiful and the students were great to work with. We spent time discussing common issues and concerns, and developed ideas to initiate change. My favorite part of RA Training was "Behind Closed Doors", where each RA was given a chance to put their skills to the test! I was confronted with difficult situations; some of which, I was prepared for, and others, I'm glad I learned about! Both training sessions have proven to be worthwhile.
My Smooth Transitions mentees are all unique and gifted, and my Saylor Ackerman residents are about as sweet as they come! They're congenial and active, and they take pride in our hall. We are doing a lot to build community, since that's Capital's theme this year! I truly enjoy spending time with both groups, and I'm working to develop good relationships with them.
On an academic note, things are going well. I'm glad that I decided to change my major; I think Social Work is a much better fit. I relate so well to its roles and values; I've even joined the Student Social Work Association. We have a lot planned this year, with great emphasis on service. This month we'll focus on slavery and the homeless. To date, I'm enjoying my Social Work classes as well! One class requires volunteer work at an agency, so I will complete my hours at St. Vincent's Family Center. I have chosen to work with kindergarteners who have behavior/mental issues. I believe it will help me to develop a better perspective, as well as a deeper sense of appreciation for all that I have. I'm scheduled to start next weekend, and I'm looking forward to the experience. St. Vincent's is currently running a Coat Drive at Capital, and is also in need of volunteers to take children Trick Or Treating throughout our residence halls. Visit the CSLD Office if you'd like more information!
That's pretty much it, in regards to my update! It's amazing how much of a difference a year can make. I feel so comfortable in this environment now. The only thing that's thrown me off is the Mound Street construction! Aside from that, I've learned a lot about myself and others, and I'm doing my best to make good decisons. I know the difference now between a friend and an associate, I've discovered satisfaction in pursuing my own interests, I study A LOT more and try to stay ahead of deadlines, and I still leave time for lots of fun! Not every day is perfect, but some days do come close! I really can't complain; my experience at Capital is what I choose to make it!
I was excited when asked to blog again this year. I hope you'll enjoy reading...feel free to leave your comments!
I'll write more soon.
Amanda
P.S. - Since I'm not above bragging, I'll take a moment to mention that a first year blogger, Nicole, is one of my residents! Be sure to read her blogs and leave her lots of comments! :-)