Aug 05, 2006 13:58
This summer has been amazing, challenging, stressful, and extremely fun. I have tested and re-tested myself so many times this summer, and still am until September 1st. Fall Welcome has been one of the most beneficial experiences I have ever committed myself to in my whole life. Words simply don't explain what I have learned, or how I TRULY feel about the whole experience thus far, but I can say that it has built onto the most complex parts of my critical thinking skills. I have overcome some of the greatest tasks, and have made many people proud of the work I have done. Fall Welcome is going to be one of the greatest programs Western Michigan University has seen yet, and will be a great foundation for future coordinators to build off of. Even though I have been busy with the program, I have also been taking classes, hanging out, and currently preparing to begin the move to the place which I will reside for the next two years (hopefully final years) of my undergrad. Class has been great, I finally overcame my fear of Microeconomics, and passed the class with a BA, which did wonders for my GPA. Currently I am re-taking Intro to Political Science, for which I earned a C the first semester freshman year. Sometimes I think that I am a little Obsessive Compulsive when it comes to my grades, mainly I look at what I have taken this summer and questioned my reasoning for re-taking the classes, but then I look real hard, and see that it wasn't a mistake, and was actually one of the best choices I have made. It has gotten me a spot in the Honors College, which will open up many doors, especially financially for my trip to South Africa in a year this July.
Class and work haven't been the only things I have been doing. I have held down, and rather nicely might I add, my social life. I have done much more this summer than summer past, including several trips to the beach, countless hours talking with roommates on the porch whilst sipping brandy, trips to Coldstone, the mall, Target, Meijer, Movie nights with replica food Titanics, and much more. I wouldn't give up what I have done this summer, not in an instant. The DCI shows have been outstanding, and am DEFINITELY looking forward to my trip to Madison to support my roommate Joe. Speaking of which, and mentioned earlier, I move into the new place this week. I will begin the move on Monday, and will continue Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. When I return from Madison on Sunday I will hopefully finish up. A trip to IKEA is planned for this Wednesday so I am able to obtain the necessities for my room, including a bed and mattress. I look forward to moving in this week, for it will equate to the next chapter in my life of having "a place of my own" for an extended period of time. I have had great memories in the dorms, and in my summer locations, but it is all getting old. The fact that I am in a place for a few months, then packing back up, and moving to the next location only to be disappointed with having to move yet again a few months down the road.
All of this work and excitement will continue into the Fall, which I am hoping to take a slight break from it all to focus on my research and preparations for South Africa. I will still be committed to the Pre-Law Society, and look to apply as a site leader for the Alternative Spring Break next February. I have discussed with Kelly, my co-worker, that I will need a week off, that I am worried that I will be slightly burned out going into the semester. One thing I think I might do toward the beginning to alleviate this is to plan a short weekend trip to California. I don't get to see my mom very much so a three day weekend would be beneficial for both parties.
Alright, enough rambling for now. I would like to wish those entering their first year into college, whether it be WMU or any other university, the best of luck. Take it easy, go to class, and just have fun! Oh BTW this November is my 21st b-day, I am sure a celebration will be planned, and I will be sure to invite all of you to it!
Thats all for now,
Matt