Happy 11/11/11!
I'm sorry that I haven't posted a blog recently - It has been craziness!
But today, I want to remind you all to make eleven wishes. The first eleven that come to mind.
These are mine:
I wish. . .
1. For a decrease in partisanship.
2. To get the internship with Board of Regents.
3. That I am able to improve education in America.
4. That I have a good date tonight - to be followed by others : )
5. That Wes is successful with his job at Shopko and with finding a job that he enjoys.
6. That Ashley (my roommate, she had emergency surgery this week!) heals well.
7. That I write strong essays (for history, government, and intellectual traditions).
8. That Daphne may have a good life.
9. For stem cell research.
10. That Natalie and Sean are happy.
11. For the safety of our soldiers and that our veterans receive more respect and appreciation.
Happy Veterans Day.
love, ali
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Education First, My Life Second
In these past few days I have tasted the joy of working whole-heartedly for something that I believe in - having the Utah legislature stop cutting the funding of higher education. Although it has resulted in me staying up later and getting up earlier all the while filling in the middle of my day as well with tabling and handing out petition cards, I am deeply satisfied to see the posters that I've worked to hang up around campus and to see the giant thermometer-banner that I made hanging in the Union.
In case I haven't explained Education First to you before this is what it is all about: Education First is a non-partisan group that largely works with business leaders of Utah (predominately republican) to tell the Utah legislature that Utah's economy cannot be maintained and the businesses cannot employ Utahans if the legislature does not put education first. Education First is also working with all of the higher education institutions in Utah to mobilize the students to prove that the students care if funding gets cut and tuition gets raised. It is even a competition between the universities and colleges of Utah to get the most petitions signed and whichever school wins will be awarded a table at the Governor's Gala (wouldn't it be amazing to be there?).
So, this is what I've been working on - heart and soul - for about a week now. It has reminded me that I love this sort of life: the sort of life where I am working relentlessly on something that I am passionate about. This in turn makes me believe that I would enjoy a job, as consuming as it might be, working for the government on education reform.
P.S. Next time I am in the Union, I'll take a photo of my giant thermometer. :)
In case I haven't explained Education First to you before this is what it is all about: Education First is a non-partisan group that largely works with business leaders of Utah (predominately republican) to tell the Utah legislature that Utah's economy cannot be maintained and the businesses cannot employ Utahans if the legislature does not put education first. Education First is also working with all of the higher education institutions in Utah to mobilize the students to prove that the students care if funding gets cut and tuition gets raised. It is even a competition between the universities and colleges of Utah to get the most petitions signed and whichever school wins will be awarded a table at the Governor's Gala (wouldn't it be amazing to be there?).
So, this is what I've been working on - heart and soul - for about a week now. It has reminded me that I love this sort of life: the sort of life where I am working relentlessly on something that I am passionate about. This in turn makes me believe that I would enjoy a job, as consuming as it might be, working for the government on education reform.
P.S. Next time I am in the Union, I'll take a photo of my giant thermometer. :)
Friday, October 21, 2011
Chamomile tea after a long week
I keep realizing different things that I did this week, and remembering them all I realize that it is not surprise that I am exhausted! It is time for some chamomile tea (check), sleep (getting there), and a refreshing hike (coming soon). In the meantime, here is what I did:
Went to my Thinktank meeting
Explored UMFA with a friend and spent an hour and a half on one exhibit (that's right, one!)
Practiced Tennis in the field house
Wrote my midterm essay for Intellectual Traditions on the same topic that I have been working on for an essay for my Western Civilization class
Received the highest grade (98.5) on the midterm for my US Government class
Went to a forum about redistricting
Discussed history essay with history professor
Went to a poetry reading
Went to a Government Relations meeting and will potentially be co-chair for the Special Projects Committee
Had free pie at the Village Inn with suitemates at 10:00 pm
Asked by Dr. Jones to TA for him
Played and won a very fun tennis match for the intramurals
Had a 'lunch date' to learn more about running for ASUU Assembly
Went to a lecture about the European crisis with the Euro
Worked on distributing Education First pamphlets for the Special Projects Committee of the GR board
Yeesh. No wonder I am tired.
Time to return to my tea.
Went to my Thinktank meeting
Explored UMFA with a friend and spent an hour and a half on one exhibit (that's right, one!)
Practiced Tennis in the field house
Wrote my midterm essay for Intellectual Traditions on the same topic that I have been working on for an essay for my Western Civilization class
Received the highest grade (98.5) on the midterm for my US Government class
Went to a forum about redistricting
Discussed history essay with history professor
Went to a poetry reading
Went to a Government Relations meeting and will potentially be co-chair for the Special Projects Committee
Had free pie at the Village Inn with suitemates at 10:00 pm
Asked by Dr. Jones to TA for him
Played and won a very fun tennis match for the intramurals
Had a 'lunch date' to learn more about running for ASUU Assembly
Went to a lecture about the European crisis with the Euro
Worked on distributing Education First pamphlets for the Special Projects Committee of the GR board
Yeesh. No wonder I am tired.
Time to return to my tea.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Only 50 Minutes?
Hello all!
I wanted to quickly report to you that my first midterm was a success. I correctly guessed two out of the three essay topics (religion, women) and I think I did a good job writing the essay and writing 5 short responses on different subjects. The only challenge was doing all of this in 50 minutes - a huge difference from being used to exams that last at least 90 minutes, if not much more. It is a whole different sort of challenge. But I got it all in and I feel very good about it! We'll see!
Next: US Govt on Friday!
I wanted to quickly report to you that my first midterm was a success. I correctly guessed two out of the three essay topics (religion, women) and I think I did a good job writing the essay and writing 5 short responses on different subjects. The only challenge was doing all of this in 50 minutes - a huge difference from being used to exams that last at least 90 minutes, if not much more. It is a whole different sort of challenge. But I got it all in and I feel very good about it! We'll see!
Next: US Govt on Friday!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
University of Utah T-Shirt, Victoria Secret U of U Sweatpants, and Paul Frank Slippers
The Outfit of Champions. Or atleast the outfit that suits a long needed break.
After having a wonderfully busy week which culminated with seeing Babcock Theatre's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream (absolutely hilarious and fantastic) and going to the Homecoming Dance (definitely the funnest dance that I have ever been to - I have a photo booth strip of photos to prove it too) I took the day off today.
Originally, I was going to go to the game today (U v. University of Washington) and volunteer with Recycle Rice Eccles but I decided yesterday and this morning that I definitely wouldn't have enough energy to do that. I seem to be making a habit of turning the game days into my relaxing days. It works for me.
This morning I showered and had a lovely, relaxed breakfast. I had a toasted bagel and egg (egg sandwich!) and strawberries and oranges with orange juice. Mm.
I then walked down to the library and read or reviewed 20 sources from ancient history for my Western Civilization exam on monday. These sources include everything from a section of the play Lysistrata to Socrates' speech at his trial. All very interesting.
Next, I walked back up and had lunch at the HC (pasta and a vegetable marinara, broccoli, yogurt with granola and raspberries). I followed this with a fantastic nap. So far I have spent the rest of my afternoon doing laundry, outlining essays, and working on government vocabulary.
It is wonderful to have a day to spend in my Paul Frank slippers.
After having a wonderfully busy week which culminated with seeing Babcock Theatre's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream (absolutely hilarious and fantastic) and going to the Homecoming Dance (definitely the funnest dance that I have ever been to - I have a photo booth strip of photos to prove it too) I took the day off today.
Originally, I was going to go to the game today (U v. University of Washington) and volunteer with Recycle Rice Eccles but I decided yesterday and this morning that I definitely wouldn't have enough energy to do that. I seem to be making a habit of turning the game days into my relaxing days. It works for me.
This morning I showered and had a lovely, relaxed breakfast. I had a toasted bagel and egg (egg sandwich!) and strawberries and oranges with orange juice. Mm.
I then walked down to the library and read or reviewed 20 sources from ancient history for my Western Civilization exam on monday. These sources include everything from a section of the play Lysistrata to Socrates' speech at his trial. All very interesting.
Next, I walked back up and had lunch at the HC (pasta and a vegetable marinara, broccoli, yogurt with granola and raspberries). I followed this with a fantastic nap. So far I have spent the rest of my afternoon doing laundry, outlining essays, and working on government vocabulary.
It is wonderful to have a day to spend in my Paul Frank slippers.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Vote Ali!
The spoils system. Riding in on the coattails of the president. A corrupt election process. Polarization.
It doesn't really sound like something that you would want to be involved with, does it? And yet, I think that I am going to be running for the ASUU Assembly this coming Spring. The Assembly is the student government's equivalent to the House of Representatives and deals largely with appropriations for various student groups. Yesterday I was waiting for the Hinckley Forum (about "The Mormon Question" and the Presidency - fascinating) with my TA for my US Gov class and the Vice President for ASUU's Government Relations Board (which I am on). The VP for Government Relations, Andrew, turned to the TA, Molly, and asked whether she was planning to run for reelection for the Senate. I asked them what they were discussing and after a few explanation (very few, I hardly know what I am getting myself into) I had made it onto Andrew's excel spreadsheet of potential candidates for the "Voice" party.
Later I ran into a girl that I have met several times at the Government Relations Board and at service projects who turns out will be running for ASUU president. After answering a few of my questions about the Assembly she informed me that I needed to find a campaign manager a soon as possible. Someone that I trust and would work hard to help me get elected. I easily recruited for this position my friends Brittany and Marissa.
I really don't know everything about what I am getting into but it seems exciting and a great opportunity to find out first hand what politics is like - for better and for worse.
A few things that I do know is that as an Assembly member I would represent a college (I could pick to run for the college of Humanities or Social and Behavioral Sciences), we campaign in March and April, Assembly candidates received about $5000 for their campaign (!), a term for an Assembly member is one year, Assembly members get paid about $1200 for their term, the Assembly meets about twice a month and votes on appropriating funds to different colleges and student groups.
Vote Ali!
It doesn't really sound like something that you would want to be involved with, does it? And yet, I think that I am going to be running for the ASUU Assembly this coming Spring. The Assembly is the student government's equivalent to the House of Representatives and deals largely with appropriations for various student groups. Yesterday I was waiting for the Hinckley Forum (about "The Mormon Question" and the Presidency - fascinating) with my TA for my US Gov class and the Vice President for ASUU's Government Relations Board (which I am on). The VP for Government Relations, Andrew, turned to the TA, Molly, and asked whether she was planning to run for reelection for the Senate. I asked them what they were discussing and after a few explanation (very few, I hardly know what I am getting myself into) I had made it onto Andrew's excel spreadsheet of potential candidates for the "Voice" party.
Later I ran into a girl that I have met several times at the Government Relations Board and at service projects who turns out will be running for ASUU president. After answering a few of my questions about the Assembly she informed me that I needed to find a campaign manager a soon as possible. Someone that I trust and would work hard to help me get elected. I easily recruited for this position my friends Brittany and Marissa.
I really don't know everything about what I am getting into but it seems exciting and a great opportunity to find out first hand what politics is like - for better and for worse.
A few things that I do know is that as an Assembly member I would represent a college (I could pick to run for the college of Humanities or Social and Behavioral Sciences), we campaign in March and April, Assembly candidates received about $5000 for their campaign (!), a term for an Assembly member is one year, Assembly members get paid about $1200 for their term, the Assembly meets about twice a month and votes on appropriating funds to different colleges and student groups.
Vote Ali!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Limitless
Although, I haven't seen the movie Limitless today I felt much as I imagine one would if one could use all of his or her brain.
Or maybe it is just possible if one gets more than six hours of sleep.
Either way, today I felt that everything was tied together. US National Government, Western Civilization to 1300, and Intellectual Traditions, especially. You see, although I am studying the national supremacy clause (Article VI of the Constitution) I am really studying the Code of Hammurabi at the same time as the supremacy clause is one of the four main points of that Babylonian document. Or, while we are examining the development of the judicial system through the Odessey and Agammemnon in Intellectual Traditions, I am really understanding another perspective of how the tyrants Solon and Cleisthenes reformed the judicial system of Athens. And you know, I now understand some more of the flaws of our judicial system and how to improve them from Sim Gill's speech two weeks ago at the Hinckley Institute.
Athens dominated the seas with their navy - so did Great Britain.
The Battle Marathon was the turning point of the Persian Wars - so was Gettysburg for the American Civil War.
Solon understand that a democracy couldn't be created instantly as there were none of the institutions in place - just as Hegel understood with Dialectics that life is a series of anti-thesis and thesis which result in a sythesis.
The recognition of Odysseus' hands by Erycleia because of his hands is similar to the importance of a mother recognizing a child's hands in Beloved
The Deus Ex Machina ending of Iphigenia in Taurus is just like that of Tartuffe
There aren't any boarders or boundaries. Everything that I am learning relates and explains the other things that I am learning or have learned.
I guess I should get more sleep more often. : )
Or maybe it is just possible if one gets more than six hours of sleep.
Either way, today I felt that everything was tied together. US National Government, Western Civilization to 1300, and Intellectual Traditions, especially. You see, although I am studying the national supremacy clause (Article VI of the Constitution) I am really studying the Code of Hammurabi at the same time as the supremacy clause is one of the four main points of that Babylonian document. Or, while we are examining the development of the judicial system through the Odessey and Agammemnon in Intellectual Traditions, I am really understanding another perspective of how the tyrants Solon and Cleisthenes reformed the judicial system of Athens. And you know, I now understand some more of the flaws of our judicial system and how to improve them from Sim Gill's speech two weeks ago at the Hinckley Institute.
Athens dominated the seas with their navy - so did Great Britain.
The Battle Marathon was the turning point of the Persian Wars - so was Gettysburg for the American Civil War.
Solon understand that a democracy couldn't be created instantly as there were none of the institutions in place - just as Hegel understood with Dialectics that life is a series of anti-thesis and thesis which result in a sythesis.
The recognition of Odysseus' hands by Erycleia because of his hands is similar to the importance of a mother recognizing a child's hands in Beloved
The Deus Ex Machina ending of Iphigenia in Taurus is just like that of Tartuffe
There aren't any boarders or boundaries. Everything that I am learning relates and explains the other things that I am learning or have learned.
I guess I should get more sleep more often. : )
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
A Poltical Thought
Today I registered to vote. Never before have I been with so much excitement while filling out my name, address, and birthday. If only I had had my camera with me so that someone could take a photo of me with the people at the registration table. . .
I can vote!
This day got even better as I went to the Hinckley Institute Forum about "Civility in American Politics". Mayor Ralph Becker, Senator Karen Morgan, and Bob Bennet were there. While what every panel member said was interesting concerning the meaning of civility and the reasons for why we are where we are today, Bennet was by far the most interesting and the best speaker. Among other things, he brought up the incident of when senator (Sumner?) from South Carolina beat another senator from Massachusetts on the Senate floor until his cane broke. That is incivility. Bennet made the closing remark of the forum which ended on a question about one man's anger with his government leaders who he feels has failed him. Senator Morgan suggested to the man that he makes sure that he knows all of the facts and that he can always vote out his representative if he does not feel that he is being represented well. Bennett referred to this with his closing remark,
"Yeah, vote them out but don't take your can and beat them senseless."
That really wouldn't be the civil thing to do.
I can vote!
This day got even better as I went to the Hinckley Institute Forum about "Civility in American Politics". Mayor Ralph Becker, Senator Karen Morgan, and Bob Bennet were there. While what every panel member said was interesting concerning the meaning of civility and the reasons for why we are where we are today, Bennet was by far the most interesting and the best speaker. Among other things, he brought up the incident of when senator (Sumner?) from South Carolina beat another senator from Massachusetts on the Senate floor until his cane broke. That is incivility. Bennet made the closing remark of the forum which ended on a question about one man's anger with his government leaders who he feels has failed him. Senator Morgan suggested to the man that he makes sure that he knows all of the facts and that he can always vote out his representative if he does not feel that he is being represented well. Bennett referred to this with his closing remark,
"Yeah, vote them out but don't take your can and beat them senseless."
That really wouldn't be the civil thing to do.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Another Thought of the Week: Americans
So, somehow I am a magnet for foreigners. I don't really know how this happens but I have met several people from different countries such as Kuwait (which from my conversation with this young man during lunch today, apparently is some type of utopia as it does not have taxes), Germany, India, and Japan. Among other things, I am fascinated with how others view Americans. This repeatedly came up on last Saturday as I and several friends from high school spent the morning exploring downtown Salt Lake with two German exchange students: Janak and Anka. After much discussion on how Americans say things, I sighed and said to Janak, "Americans are rude. I'm sorry that we are so rude." He replied,
"Americans aren't rude. They're just ignorant."
"Americans aren't rude. They're just ignorant."
Monday, September 5, 2011
The Second Week
Tie dye
Walking
Think tank
Lecture by Jim Matheson
President's Honors Reception
First College Paper (91 out of 100)
Chai Tea Latte From Trader Joes
Closing Silver Bean
Racquetball
Home
Hiking
The Pie Pizzeria
Sorority Stories
Bride and Prejudice
Civic Engagement Conference
Opening Silver Bean
The Odessey
More Hiking
Ute Pride
Saturday, August 27, 2011
The LIneup
Hello all!
I have just finished my first week of college and it was fantastic. During the week a few changes ocurred to my schedule to make it better than ever, but here is the final schedule:
U.S. National Government (taught by Dan Jones)
Western Civilization to 1300
Intellectual Traditions
Documentary Filmaking Thinktank
Honors Scholars Group
Political Forum Series
The Political Forum Series is the latest edition so you may not have all heard about it. The Hinckley Institute hosts 33 political speakers throughout the semester. I have to go to 10 of them and write a 3 page summary and analysis of 7 of them. The class will help with my writing skills and give me more opportunities with internships.
The upcoming forums are:
Aug 30th 10:45 - Matheson
Sept 6th 10:45 - Sam Gill (Salt Lake County District Attorney)
Sept 13th 12:15 - Bennet, Becker, and Senator Morgan
Sept 20th 2:00 - Salt Lake City Council
Let me know if you want to know what the forum is about or if you want to attend!
Odds and Ends: This morning I went running for the second time on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. It has beautiful views of the entire Salt Lake Valley. It even winds into the This is the Place Heritage Park so it provides a charming view of the pioneer houses.
Last night my roomate, Lindsay, and another girl on the floor and I went down to Crimson Nights. They are huge university parties. We went and saw everything that there was to do but after playing a few carnival games we quickly decided to come back and instead watch the movie Sydney White. Which is our favorite replacement to participating in Greek Life.
I have just finished my first week of college and it was fantastic. During the week a few changes ocurred to my schedule to make it better than ever, but here is the final schedule:
U.S. National Government (taught by Dan Jones)
Western Civilization to 1300
Intellectual Traditions
Documentary Filmaking Thinktank
Honors Scholars Group
Political Forum Series
The Political Forum Series is the latest edition so you may not have all heard about it. The Hinckley Institute hosts 33 political speakers throughout the semester. I have to go to 10 of them and write a 3 page summary and analysis of 7 of them. The class will help with my writing skills and give me more opportunities with internships.
The upcoming forums are:
Aug 30th 10:45 - Matheson
Sept 6th 10:45 - Sam Gill (Salt Lake County District Attorney)
Sept 13th 12:15 - Bennet, Becker, and Senator Morgan
Sept 20th 2:00 - Salt Lake City Council
Let me know if you want to know what the forum is about or if you want to attend!
Odds and Ends: This morning I went running for the second time on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. It has beautiful views of the entire Salt Lake Valley. It even winds into the This is the Place Heritage Park so it provides a charming view of the pioneer houses.
Last night my roomate, Lindsay, and another girl on the floor and I went down to Crimson Nights. They are huge university parties. We went and saw everything that there was to do but after playing a few carnival games we quickly decided to come back and instead watch the movie Sydney White. Which is our favorite replacement to participating in Greek Life.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Cicero, Locke, and Bacon
The Thought of the Week (and you didn't even know that there was a thought of the week!) Ralph Waldo Emerson's speech "The American Scholar". I read this for my scholars group and particularly enjoyed the following quote:
"Meek young men grow up in libraries, believing it their duty to accept the views which Cicero, which Locke, which Bacon, have given; forgetful that Cicero, Locke, and Bacon were only young men in libraries when they wrote these books."
"Meek young men grow up in libraries, believing it their duty to accept the views which Cicero, which Locke, which Bacon, have given; forgetful that Cicero, Locke, and Bacon were only young men in libraries when they wrote these books."
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
First
Howdy!
I can vote. I can vote! Although my birthday was yesterday, that fact hit me today when I was reading my US Government textbook. That fact left me shocked for a few moments before I could focus back on my reading.
Not only did my birthday herald the voting experience, but it also commenced my college experience. And what a fine experience that is.
I was a little nervous yesterday before classes began, but once they did it seemed natural to read syllabuses, introduce myself to professors, and walk across the campus. And my birthday wasn't lost in the excitement. Mom kindly brought up a tray of delicious cupcakes (even more delicious than usual!) and I spent a good part of the afternoon sharing the cupcakes and meeting everyone on my floor. While it may seem awkward to simply knock on a door and introduce yourself, a tray of cupcakes makes anything enjoyable. At one point I even had a bunch of people in my dorm room that had heard about the cupcakes. They were all very friendly and we played a great game of ultimate frisbee afterwards. I also received a scarf, two cards, and two books from friends. And two cards in my mailbox. What great first mail to receive!
I was meant to have my think tank last night as well, but the professor sent out an email that she was unable to teach then. So instead I went to the Honors Barbecue and talk to friends and family through the evening!
Today I went to my African American History class, which, while it seems wonderful, and the professor is excellent, I am going to drop. I already knew that I should probably drop it before I went but 5 large books to read, a 15 page research paper, 2 presentations, and a midterm and a final sealed the deal, unfortunately. After doing quite a bit of reading today I am now feeling much more comfortable with the class load that I have. I think that I do have just the right amount of classes to also have time to volunteer, join clubs, and possibly work.
One last note: I am very happy that I brought up my art history flash cards. I did 20 pages of reading of Gilgamesh (a story from about 627 B.C.). It includes numerous Sumerian Gods and references, which I only know about because of art history. Sweet!
Oh also, todays meals: I had raisin bran and orange juice for breakfast. Stir fry pineapple, carrots, onion, and broccoli with noodles, terriyaki, and sweet and sour sauce. And for dinner: A hard boiled egg salad with rice pilaf, peas, and a little pork. Dinner was also topped off with a glass of chocolate milk.
I can vote. I can vote! Although my birthday was yesterday, that fact hit me today when I was reading my US Government textbook. That fact left me shocked for a few moments before I could focus back on my reading.
Not only did my birthday herald the voting experience, but it also commenced my college experience. And what a fine experience that is.
I was a little nervous yesterday before classes began, but once they did it seemed natural to read syllabuses, introduce myself to professors, and walk across the campus. And my birthday wasn't lost in the excitement. Mom kindly brought up a tray of delicious cupcakes (even more delicious than usual!) and I spent a good part of the afternoon sharing the cupcakes and meeting everyone on my floor. While it may seem awkward to simply knock on a door and introduce yourself, a tray of cupcakes makes anything enjoyable. At one point I even had a bunch of people in my dorm room that had heard about the cupcakes. They were all very friendly and we played a great game of ultimate frisbee afterwards. I also received a scarf, two cards, and two books from friends. And two cards in my mailbox. What great first mail to receive!
I was meant to have my think tank last night as well, but the professor sent out an email that she was unable to teach then. So instead I went to the Honors Barbecue and talk to friends and family through the evening!
Today I went to my African American History class, which, while it seems wonderful, and the professor is excellent, I am going to drop. I already knew that I should probably drop it before I went but 5 large books to read, a 15 page research paper, 2 presentations, and a midterm and a final sealed the deal, unfortunately. After doing quite a bit of reading today I am now feeling much more comfortable with the class load that I have. I think that I do have just the right amount of classes to also have time to volunteer, join clubs, and possibly work.
One last note: I am very happy that I brought up my art history flash cards. I did 20 pages of reading of Gilgamesh (a story from about 627 B.C.). It includes numerous Sumerian Gods and references, which I only know about because of art history. Sweet!
Oh also, todays meals: I had raisin bran and orange juice for breakfast. Stir fry pineapple, carrots, onion, and broccoli with noodles, terriyaki, and sweet and sour sauce. And for dinner: A hard boiled egg salad with rice pilaf, peas, and a little pork. Dinner was also topped off with a glass of chocolate milk.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Coming Soon!
Coming soon to an Overlook near you there will be photos and information about my first day and birthday at the U!
I love you all!
I love you all!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Potential: An Empty Dorm Room and the College Experience
Here I am. Sitting at my desk in my newly floral decorated dorm room, sipping an herbal tea brewed fresh from my electronic kettle, after only the first day or so of college life.
Whoa.
Although these two days have drastically changed my lifestyle (i.e., sharing a living space, scheduled meals, to name a few), it has been easier and quicker than I could have expected. As simple and natural as taking another step. The entire naturalness of this situation may have come from participating in so many tennis camps. Perhaps I'll be shocked in a week or so when I realize, I'm not actually at a camp. I'm at my new home - well, my school home that is. Really though, I don't see that shock coming any time soon.
Yesterday I spent the morning moving in (with the assistance of the wonderful Mummsleydale). After a trip back home for lunch I came back to my dorm and settled in. I then went and bought a computer lock at the bookstore. Later there was a free dinner with Em, Taylor, Daphne, and Mom. And after, I hung out, getting to know two of my roomates, Kassandra and Ashley, better. The night ended with a movie showing of "Thor".
Today I got up early to go on a run. I explored upper campus from almost to the hospital to and through research park. I came back and enjoyed a delicious breakfast of Oatmeal and Fruit. A whole group of us then decided to start just riding the shuttles to figure out the routes and then we heard about the Race through the U which is a scavenger hunt through campus. Two girls (Michaela and Hillary) wanted to do it with me so we looped back to the dorms and got ready for the race. A boy Ben was added to our team, and Kelsey Strong was added as well. It was really fun to talk to Kelsey again. While some of my team mates may have said that we quit after two hours and 4 or so challenges. I say we finished early. We completely successful in that we bonded with each other and got to know the campus better. We got to kick a field goal on the football field in Rice-Eccles Stadium, run around the Hunstman center looking for a clue, match flags with countries in the Study Abroad Center, and print a picture of ourselves in the Union building. I call that a success. Lunch was pasta and broccoli. Next, I had to pick up my key at Silver Bean so I took Marissa with me for her to get groceries at her house (I am very thankful for the meal plan that I have, I don't have to strategize what meals to skip), and Katrina came along to pick up her pay check at Zupas. I even dropped by Viking Road and was rewarded with a body pillow, an electronic kettle, a fan, and food! Fantastic. After I just took a little time to myself to do some odds and ends in my dorm (like get internet set up). Dinner next with the wonderful wok (vegetables, noodles, beef, terriyaki sauce) and a desert of chocolate milk and granola. After I hung out with Hillary some more and we shared our loves for poetry and literature. Oh yes, that included a reading of "To an athlete dying young". I finished the night with my first college party: a dance outside of the heritage center. It was an okay dance but by far the best part was doing the charleston with Marissa.
All in all. Two excellent days. I can't wait for the rest.
Whoa.
Although these two days have drastically changed my lifestyle (i.e., sharing a living space, scheduled meals, to name a few), it has been easier and quicker than I could have expected. As simple and natural as taking another step. The entire naturalness of this situation may have come from participating in so many tennis camps. Perhaps I'll be shocked in a week or so when I realize, I'm not actually at a camp. I'm at my new home - well, my school home that is. Really though, I don't see that shock coming any time soon.
Yesterday I spent the morning moving in (with the assistance of the wonderful Mummsleydale). After a trip back home for lunch I came back to my dorm and settled in. I then went and bought a computer lock at the bookstore. Later there was a free dinner with Em, Taylor, Daphne, and Mom. And after, I hung out, getting to know two of my roomates, Kassandra and Ashley, better. The night ended with a movie showing of "Thor".
Today I got up early to go on a run. I explored upper campus from almost to the hospital to and through research park. I came back and enjoyed a delicious breakfast of Oatmeal and Fruit. A whole group of us then decided to start just riding the shuttles to figure out the routes and then we heard about the Race through the U which is a scavenger hunt through campus. Two girls (Michaela and Hillary) wanted to do it with me so we looped back to the dorms and got ready for the race. A boy Ben was added to our team, and Kelsey Strong was added as well. It was really fun to talk to Kelsey again. While some of my team mates may have said that we quit after two hours and 4 or so challenges. I say we finished early. We completely successful in that we bonded with each other and got to know the campus better. We got to kick a field goal on the football field in Rice-Eccles Stadium, run around the Hunstman center looking for a clue, match flags with countries in the Study Abroad Center, and print a picture of ourselves in the Union building. I call that a success. Lunch was pasta and broccoli. Next, I had to pick up my key at Silver Bean so I took Marissa with me for her to get groceries at her house (I am very thankful for the meal plan that I have, I don't have to strategize what meals to skip), and Katrina came along to pick up her pay check at Zupas. I even dropped by Viking Road and was rewarded with a body pillow, an electronic kettle, a fan, and food! Fantastic. After I just took a little time to myself to do some odds and ends in my dorm (like get internet set up). Dinner next with the wonderful wok (vegetables, noodles, beef, terriyaki sauce) and a desert of chocolate milk and granola. After I hung out with Hillary some more and we shared our loves for poetry and literature. Oh yes, that included a reading of "To an athlete dying young". I finished the night with my first college party: a dance outside of the heritage center. It was an okay dance but by far the best part was doing the charleston with Marissa.
All in all. Two excellent days. I can't wait for the rest.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
Must I always, always, be waiting on. . . .life?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffgsf3pqaD8
Once again, a song seems to apply - in an odd sort of way. Although Jack Johnson's song "Sitting, Waiting Wishing" has very little to do with me, somehow the beat and fragments of the lyrics apply. Those lyrics have been echoing in my head for a few days now. . . .
Must I always, always, be waiting on. . . .life?
I dislike waiting. Some sitting and waiting is alright, the kind that anticipates a holiday or an exciting event, for example, it is the waiting that preludes a change that I can not tolerate. Only so much preparation and planning can fill my time and distract me. It can be avoided no longer; there is a very long pause. A pause that seems to put life itself on hold. And I just want to live.
I want to meet people. I want confront the challenge of change. I want to go to classes and learn. To find the perfect tree to study under and my favorite chair in the library.
Of course, if I think to look backwards it is a little shocking. College already? Moving into dorms? I remember wondering and imagining what that day would be like. Even more so I remember realizing that once this day arrived I would be shocked that it had arrived so soon. In that line of logic I know that tomorrow morning will arrive quickly and that pause will be gone before I know it.
Thank goodness though, because waiting on life ain't so easy to do.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ffgsf3pqaD8
Once again, a song seems to apply - in an odd sort of way. Although Jack Johnson's song "Sitting, Waiting Wishing" has very little to do with me, somehow the beat and fragments of the lyrics apply. Those lyrics have been echoing in my head for a few days now. . . .
Must I always, always, be waiting on. . . .life?
I dislike waiting. Some sitting and waiting is alright, the kind that anticipates a holiday or an exciting event, for example, it is the waiting that preludes a change that I can not tolerate. Only so much preparation and planning can fill my time and distract me. It can be avoided no longer; there is a very long pause. A pause that seems to put life itself on hold. And I just want to live.
I want to meet people. I want confront the challenge of change. I want to go to classes and learn. To find the perfect tree to study under and my favorite chair in the library.
Of course, if I think to look backwards it is a little shocking. College already? Moving into dorms? I remember wondering and imagining what that day would be like. Even more so I remember realizing that once this day arrived I would be shocked that it had arrived so soon. In that line of logic I know that tomorrow morning will arrive quickly and that pause will be gone before I know it.
Thank goodness though, because waiting on life ain't so easy to do.
Monday, August 8, 2011
We're not in high school anymore, Toto.
It's funny what makes you realize and remember that your life is about to change.
Today on the radio I heard the song "You Belong to Me" by Taylor Swift, and while I have never really connected to the song (in fact I disliked it for a long time - obviously the guy doesn't recognize how awesome the girl is so the girl should just move on to a better guy that recognizes her worth!), the song really reminded me that I'm not in high school anymore. The song is clearly about a girl in high school; she has "typical tuesday nights listening to. . .music", she "stands in the bleachers", and there are many more little things that seem very high schoolesque to me.
I don't know what my typical tuesday nights will be like in a few weeks (less than two!) and I don't think that I'll be standing in any bleachers as I know that I missed the window to be in the football MUSS (Mighty Utah Student Section). Those seats (and the standing room, for that matter) go fast.
But luckily, no matter the changes that are coming, just like Dorothy I'll be able to wish myself back home. No ruby slippers necessary: only a short 11 minute drive away.
Today on the radio I heard the song "You Belong to Me" by Taylor Swift, and while I have never really connected to the song (in fact I disliked it for a long time - obviously the guy doesn't recognize how awesome the girl is so the girl should just move on to a better guy that recognizes her worth!), the song really reminded me that I'm not in high school anymore. The song is clearly about a girl in high school; she has "typical tuesday nights listening to. . .music", she "stands in the bleachers", and there are many more little things that seem very high schoolesque to me.
I don't know what my typical tuesday nights will be like in a few weeks (less than two!) and I don't think that I'll be standing in any bleachers as I know that I missed the window to be in the football MUSS (Mighty Utah Student Section). Those seats (and the standing room, for that matter) go fast.
But luckily, no matter the changes that are coming, just like Dorothy I'll be able to wish myself back home. No ruby slippers necessary: only a short 11 minute drive away.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
A Prologue
Howdy!
Welcome to my blog.
First, a few explanations. Why "The Overlook", you ask? Well, it is possibly my favorite hike and it is definitely the one that I have done most often. It is not a very difficult hike but it has a beautiful view at the top of the whole Salt Lake Valley (the full name is the Salt Lake Overlook). It is especially fun in the winter to snowshoe as slides down the mountainside become established during the season so one is able to slide down the whole mountain. The slides do have a hidden danger though and that is that some of the slides do not connect to the trail again - they simply, end. Which is problematic when suddenly you are surrounded by six feet of powder and you are sure at all how nearby the trail is. All there is to do in that situation is to climb back up. A task easier said than done. In short, the overlook is a trail that, while comforting, never fails to offer an adventure.
Next, what is this blog going to be about? Perhaps, reasonably (gathered from the title and from what I have written so far) it will be about hiking? Or perhaps my work as a barrista? No, rather, my family and friends and time spent with them? No indeed, rather it will be about, surely be about, my numerous random talents which include, but are not limited to, gurgling, eye brow waves, and a knack for remembering historical events?
Well. While this blog will undoubtedly include all of those things at one time or another, what the blog is really about is about the big change that is quickly approaching: college. This blog is dedicated to my new experiences, challenges, and joys that come along with academia and college life.
So, come along for the ride! Come with me as I move into my dorm, as I become overwhelmed with syllabi on my first day of college, and as I explore the outdoor recreation program, the Bennion center, Young Democrats, and whatever else comes my way.
ali
Welcome to my blog.
First, a few explanations. Why "The Overlook", you ask? Well, it is possibly my favorite hike and it is definitely the one that I have done most often. It is not a very difficult hike but it has a beautiful view at the top of the whole Salt Lake Valley (the full name is the Salt Lake Overlook). It is especially fun in the winter to snowshoe as slides down the mountainside become established during the season so one is able to slide down the whole mountain. The slides do have a hidden danger though and that is that some of the slides do not connect to the trail again - they simply, end. Which is problematic when suddenly you are surrounded by six feet of powder and you are sure at all how nearby the trail is. All there is to do in that situation is to climb back up. A task easier said than done. In short, the overlook is a trail that, while comforting, never fails to offer an adventure.
Next, what is this blog going to be about? Perhaps, reasonably (gathered from the title and from what I have written so far) it will be about hiking? Or perhaps my work as a barrista? No, rather, my family and friends and time spent with them? No indeed, rather it will be about, surely be about, my numerous random talents which include, but are not limited to, gurgling, eye brow waves, and a knack for remembering historical events?
Well. While this blog will undoubtedly include all of those things at one time or another, what the blog is really about is about the big change that is quickly approaching: college. This blog is dedicated to my new experiences, challenges, and joys that come along with academia and college life.
So, come along for the ride! Come with me as I move into my dorm, as I become overwhelmed with syllabi on my first day of college, and as I explore the outdoor recreation program, the Bennion center, Young Democrats, and whatever else comes my way.
ali
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