Today I finished my first Wednesday of the school year. Wednesdays will always be a little rough because I have two 3 hour classes back to back. It was the first work day where I wasn't at work. My first class Student Development Theory was awesome. I thought this was going to be the worst and hardest class, but from the introduction today, I think I'm going to love it. I have to remember that before I become intimidated and nervous about graduate classes and the rigor if this program, I have to note that I genuinely love these topics. I love what I do. The material is interesting and therefore makes the hard work seem less.
Anyway, the real interest was the group discussion we had today. (The thing I'm going to love about my core classes is that we all know each other now and we are comfortable with each other to speak and engage in topics. It reminds me of my Leadership classes, because I always had them with the same people and we really did some innovative and academically stimulating work. That's how it was today!) I was fascinated with our discussion when Danielle told us to come up with a point value system of our own to guide the class. The group dynamics totally shined through. Almost everyone voiced their opinion and we took something so small as a point value and turned it into a detailed and cautious discussion as if we were creating policy. It was the kind of class time I live for. So fun and so exciting.
I wish I could say the same about my other class today, Y-520. Our required research class. Research is one of the topics that makes everyone cringe. But this class seems basic and not too challenging. I don't know if we'll actually be doing research so much as understanding how it is done. The horrible awful $100 book is actually very easy to understand and read so that's good. There are 5 of us HESA students in the class and we all got separated for discussion groups. This class went by longer. It's by fart not as exciting as any of the other classes.
It was so hot coming home today. high 90 degree temperature again. I showered immediately when I got home. No office time today. All I made for dinner today was Kraft Mac n Cheese. It's pretty sad
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
First Class
I don't know why, but I've never been more nervous for a first day of school. I don't think anything Elementary, Junior High, High School, College compares to entering that first day of Graduate School. We've all heard the rumors of heavy reading, bulky paper, and sleepless nights. So I didn't know what to expect. But I didn't cry or become overwhelmed (yet). If anything I think this program is going to teach me balance and bring time management back into my life.
Danielle is a very good teacher. I think we will really learn a lot from her. It's no doubt a lot of work. Our Syllabus was like 30 pages. But I think as long as I fit reading into each day and plan my paper work ahead of time, I'll be ok. We'll see if the "P" in me will allow me to stay on track.
We did do a cool activity in class. It's one I know I've done before at Intensive Training before, or something of that nature. We put our expectations of what we hope to get out of HESA on stickies and placed them into categories on the wall silently within groups.
It's really cool to have classes with the same people. I think it will help us to work together and enjoy what we do. I have reading which I've been slowly doing. Very slowly. I think the other classes will give me more. Labor day is next week so there wont even be another class on Monday for another 2 weeks.
As far as everything else. It's been pretty slow. Nothing to much to tell other than my continuos grocery store trips and discoveries about the bus system.
Although I had no class today I had staff meeting which was fun. I always love seeing the whole staff from SLL. It's such a playful environment, kinda like a family. I enjoy it.
I settled in earlier tonight at home with some more Hamburger Helper and a Netflix movie. I think things will get more busy these coming days. But for now, It's pretty slow.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Danielle is a very good teacher. I think we will really learn a lot from her. It's no doubt a lot of work. Our Syllabus was like 30 pages. But I think as long as I fit reading into each day and plan my paper work ahead of time, I'll be ok. We'll see if the "P" in me will allow me to stay on track.
We did do a cool activity in class. It's one I know I've done before at Intensive Training before, or something of that nature. We put our expectations of what we hope to get out of HESA on stickies and placed them into categories on the wall silently within groups.
It's really cool to have classes with the same people. I think it will help us to work together and enjoy what we do. I have reading which I've been slowly doing. Very slowly. I think the other classes will give me more. Labor day is next week so there wont even be another class on Monday for another 2 weeks.
As far as everything else. It's been pretty slow. Nothing to much to tell other than my continuos grocery store trips and discoveries about the bus system.
Although I had no class today I had staff meeting which was fun. I always love seeing the whole staff from SLL. It's such a playful environment, kinda like a family. I enjoy it.
I settled in earlier tonight at home with some more Hamburger Helper and a Netflix movie. I think things will get more busy these coming days. But for now, It's pretty slow.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Surviving
Well... Welcome week is now pretty much over, which means school is starting tomorrow. I'm slowly learning more about my surroundings.
I've learned the bus outside my place actually goes to the college mall. So now it's much easier to get groceries.
I set up a few more things in my office. I almost got Outlook linked up. I didn't realize Outlook could do so many things. The calendars are amazing. I've been taking a lot of time to make everything easier with the COMU account I manage and the personal account I have.
I found out about my SAA Health Insurance Plan. It's better than I thought. I get dental visits and doctor checks ups! For the first time since I was taken off my mom's insurance, I can actually say I'm insured. It feels great! I can also visit a dermatologist but not in Bloomington. I certainly wasn't expecting that. :-) So I booked my dental appointment for this Friday. I'm going to get my teeth cleaned! YAY
Some other good news is that my wallet I lost a while ago was found and reported to me. Turns out it was in the Union the whole time in their lost and found. They just never contacted me. It's so weird. The money is still inside which makes life so much easier.
My brother mailed me a birthday card and gave me $50. It made my day.
Money is certainly well needed right now. Seems like every weekend I am spending money, but I am living very frugal. With the recent money that has come to me, I brought Netflix back into my life, which really isn't too much. Only $8 a month. And I went out for drinks with friends on Friday.
We went to a place where they had some nice beer. Again I'm really going to have to acquire beer while I'm here.
Now it's midnight and I'm home with a lot on my mind before school starts tomorrow. I can't really sleep. I'm thinking about so many things and nothing at that same time. I'm a little lonely, but I don't want to be around people right now. It's a weird feeling. I'm nervous about school. I hope I don't get overwhelmed. I guess I'll just leave it at that tonight.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
I've learned the bus outside my place actually goes to the college mall. So now it's much easier to get groceries.
I set up a few more things in my office. I almost got Outlook linked up. I didn't realize Outlook could do so many things. The calendars are amazing. I've been taking a lot of time to make everything easier with the COMU account I manage and the personal account I have.
I found out about my SAA Health Insurance Plan. It's better than I thought. I get dental visits and doctor checks ups! For the first time since I was taken off my mom's insurance, I can actually say I'm insured. It feels great! I can also visit a dermatologist but not in Bloomington. I certainly wasn't expecting that. :-) So I booked my dental appointment for this Friday. I'm going to get my teeth cleaned! YAY
Some other good news is that my wallet I lost a while ago was found and reported to me. Turns out it was in the Union the whole time in their lost and found. They just never contacted me. It's so weird. The money is still inside which makes life so much easier.
My brother mailed me a birthday card and gave me $50. It made my day.
Money is certainly well needed right now. Seems like every weekend I am spending money, but I am living very frugal. With the recent money that has come to me, I brought Netflix back into my life, which really isn't too much. Only $8 a month. And I went out for drinks with friends on Friday.
We went to a place where they had some nice beer. Again I'm really going to have to acquire beer while I'm here.
Now it's midnight and I'm home with a lot on my mind before school starts tomorrow. I can't really sleep. I'm thinking about so many things and nothing at that same time. I'm a little lonely, but I don't want to be around people right now. It's a weird feeling. I'm nervous about school. I hope I don't get overwhelmed. I guess I'll just leave it at that tonight.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Welcome Week
I'm officially in love with this campus. I knew I'd totally fit into a college town. It makes me jealous that I never had the residential college experience as an undergrad, but I'm glad I can say I know what both are like.
I should expect this week to be awesome because I haven't started class yet. It's been all about my job and all about getting to know the campus and my cohort. So I have nothing to complain about! It's been amazing!
Wednesday was Move in Day. I was told this day gets crazy! Even the buses don't even run on this day because everyone comes in from out of town to move in. I stayed inside my place most of the day to avoid this. It was also super hot outside like mid 90's so I did not want to experience that. But I did go to Freshman Induction. It was really cool to see the President and Provost address the new incoming class. I felt like it was the official start to the new year.
It felt like Graduation based on the attire of the faculty and administration. It was so fun to see all the Freshman and their parents embracing the moment and feeling the excitement of college and IU. I feel so proud to be a Hoosier!!
After the induction I got some free food through the RPS sponsored picnic outside with Hillary, Mara, and Melissa. It was hot but fortunately we had water and there was shade.
I spent the rest of the night in the office just hanging out. Then I went home to watch the season finale of my show the Challenge Rivals. It was an awesome finale! I'm so excited for the Real World San Diego coming up this fall! Gotta love MTV.
Today was the real busy day of them all. Darrell got back from her trip to Chicago so I touched base with her and met with Nadrea to further transition myself into the position. It felt great because I really feel like I have a handle on my position and responsibilities.
Then it was off to the GPSO Graduate Information Fair. I had to table for that alongside Doug again. It was a pretty small event. Not too many people were there so it went by rather slow.
The real fun and bulk of the day was CultureFest! This event was huge and full of things going on. We started in the IU Auditorium where we kicked things off and had a comedian entertain us on talks of race and oppression.
Then we were given food vouchers to get free samplings of all the food tables around the heart of campus. It was HUGE and crowded with people. I've never seen anything like it. I was busy helping GLBT scoop rainbow sorbet ice cream at their table. But I still got to walk around quite a bit checking things out. It was awesome!! It was also fun to hang with the cohort: Hillary, Miriam, Paul, Sam, Beth, and Kat.
I should expect this week to be awesome because I haven't started class yet. It's been all about my job and all about getting to know the campus and my cohort. So I have nothing to complain about! It's been amazing!
Wednesday was Move in Day. I was told this day gets crazy! Even the buses don't even run on this day because everyone comes in from out of town to move in. I stayed inside my place most of the day to avoid this. It was also super hot outside like mid 90's so I did not want to experience that. But I did go to Freshman Induction. It was really cool to see the President and Provost address the new incoming class. I felt like it was the official start to the new year.
It felt like Graduation based on the attire of the faculty and administration. It was so fun to see all the Freshman and their parents embracing the moment and feeling the excitement of college and IU. I feel so proud to be a Hoosier!!
After the induction I got some free food through the RPS sponsored picnic outside with Hillary, Mara, and Melissa. It was hot but fortunately we had water and there was shade.
I spent the rest of the night in the office just hanging out. Then I went home to watch the season finale of my show the Challenge Rivals. It was an awesome finale! I'm so excited for the Real World San Diego coming up this fall! Gotta love MTV.
Today was the real busy day of them all. Darrell got back from her trip to Chicago so I touched base with her and met with Nadrea to further transition myself into the position. It felt great because I really feel like I have a handle on my position and responsibilities.
Then it was off to the GPSO Graduate Information Fair. I had to table for that alongside Doug again. It was a pretty small event. Not too many people were there so it went by rather slow.
The real fun and bulk of the day was CultureFest! This event was huge and full of things going on. We started in the IU Auditorium where we kicked things off and had a comedian entertain us on talks of race and oppression.
Then we were given food vouchers to get free samplings of all the food tables around the heart of campus. It was HUGE and crowded with people. I've never seen anything like it. I was busy helping GLBT scoop rainbow sorbet ice cream at their table. But I still got to walk around quite a bit checking things out. It was awesome!! It was also fun to hang with the cohort: Hillary, Miriam, Paul, Sam, Beth, and Kat.
After the event we went to Teeter Hall for their Welcome BBQ, then to Wright Dining Hall for dinner. By that time we were all tired and headed back home for the night. Now I'm just here at my place thinking about how cool it is that I'm here and how awesome this year is going to be. I know it's right that I'm here and IU is the perfect place for me. I'm so excited to see what other events are in store for me.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Monday, August 22, 2011
Starting to Adjust
Today all my anxiety about making this move seemed to slowly fade away. I'm really starting to love it here! I have a fantastic life here. I'm so lucky to be where I am.
I woke up, got ready, made a sack lunch, felt great, and biked over to my office. It's so nice to live so close to work. It was a beautiful day too.
I finally got my ID card!! Yay... I feel so official now. They finally let me have it as a student since I'm now in the system having registered for classes. I should have had it way sooner, but it's here now.
Then I went back to the office and really starting dive into my work and task lists. With my supervisor still out of town, it's been challenging to learn the ropes. But looking at my August timeline, I know I have a lot to do. I started reading previous e-mails and looking through COMU files and it all started to make more sense. I set up my voice mail box and made my office a little more personable. I confirmed some events that I'll be tabling at and I started to make communications to our Executive Council. In other words... I actually started my position today! Not training, but actually some real work. I still have more to learn, But in the process of doing this work. I've already learned a lot about the University. Communication is a big part of my job. In the duties of my position, I will get to meet a lot of different people. It really taught me the value of communication. I already feel myself performing in a whole new professional level. It just feels different being a graduate student now. I feel like I have so much to prove to myself. I want to prove that I'm not just a student but a real practitioner.
I love my office space! I love being in the GLBT center. It's a beautiful location and I love the people here. I spent a good 6 or 7 hours in the office. Most of it was work, but some of it was just relaxing and enjoying my surrounding of this awesome space.
When I left the office, I decided to head to the store to buy some groceries. This time I went to nicer Kroger near the College Mall. I enjoy biking around campus when it's good weather like today. I passed by the famous Jacobs School of Music right as the sun was setting. It is so big and so beautiful! Sometime it makes me sad to think I'm not studying music anymore. But I know I will incorporate my love for it in everything I do. I only hope I can afford to buy a keyboard here at some point. I hope I can write music while I'm here, but I fear I may be too busy.
After I got my groceries. I realized I love biking around campus when it's not uphill. And my place is certainly uphill from everywhere else. The grocery store is pretty far from where I live. I'm not used to traveling as far to go to the store, but I know I'll adjust as the months go by. It was nice to extend my food options to more than just sandwiches now that I have pots and pans and kitchen utensils.
So tonight for dinner was no surprise. Hamburger Helper!!
Yay... Welcome back college student budget and diet. It was nice living at home for the summer and being spoiled with Dad's cooking. But it's time to go back to the cheap life. I did miss you Hamburger Helper. It's nice to have you back.
Now I'm just watching old episodes on MTV before I decide to go to bed. No homework to think about until next Monday, so I'm enjoying the moment while I can. I'm just happy to be here! And for the first time. I actually feel like I'm really making it my home here. It's certainly not the same with my family so far away and I'm already missing them. But I'm proud that I'm actually making it here and I'm building my routine.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
I woke up, got ready, made a sack lunch, felt great, and biked over to my office. It's so nice to live so close to work. It was a beautiful day too.
I finally got my ID card!! Yay... I feel so official now. They finally let me have it as a student since I'm now in the system having registered for classes. I should have had it way sooner, but it's here now.
Then I went back to the office and really starting dive into my work and task lists. With my supervisor still out of town, it's been challenging to learn the ropes. But looking at my August timeline, I know I have a lot to do. I started reading previous e-mails and looking through COMU files and it all started to make more sense. I set up my voice mail box and made my office a little more personable. I confirmed some events that I'll be tabling at and I started to make communications to our Executive Council. In other words... I actually started my position today! Not training, but actually some real work. I still have more to learn, But in the process of doing this work. I've already learned a lot about the University. Communication is a big part of my job. In the duties of my position, I will get to meet a lot of different people. It really taught me the value of communication. I already feel myself performing in a whole new professional level. It just feels different being a graduate student now. I feel like I have so much to prove to myself. I want to prove that I'm not just a student but a real practitioner.
I love my office space! I love being in the GLBT center. It's a beautiful location and I love the people here. I spent a good 6 or 7 hours in the office. Most of it was work, but some of it was just relaxing and enjoying my surrounding of this awesome space.
When I left the office, I decided to head to the store to buy some groceries. This time I went to nicer Kroger near the College Mall. I enjoy biking around campus when it's good weather like today. I passed by the famous Jacobs School of Music right as the sun was setting. It is so big and so beautiful! Sometime it makes me sad to think I'm not studying music anymore. But I know I will incorporate my love for it in everything I do. I only hope I can afford to buy a keyboard here at some point. I hope I can write music while I'm here, but I fear I may be too busy.
After I got my groceries. I realized I love biking around campus when it's not uphill. And my place is certainly uphill from everywhere else. The grocery store is pretty far from where I live. I'm not used to traveling as far to go to the store, but I know I'll adjust as the months go by. It was nice to extend my food options to more than just sandwiches now that I have pots and pans and kitchen utensils.
So tonight for dinner was no surprise. Hamburger Helper!!
Yay... Welcome back college student budget and diet. It was nice living at home for the summer and being spoiled with Dad's cooking. But it's time to go back to the cheap life. I did miss you Hamburger Helper. It's nice to have you back.
Now I'm just watching old episodes on MTV before I decide to go to bed. No homework to think about until next Monday, so I'm enjoying the moment while I can. I'm just happy to be here! And for the first time. I actually feel like I'm really making it my home here. It's certainly not the same with my family so far away and I'm already missing them. But I'm proud that I'm actually making it here and I'm building my routine.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Sunday, August 21, 2011
I'm a Gleek!
Nothing too much to write in this blog. The rest of my weekend has been relaxing and not as busy. I finally got to see the new Glee Concert 3D movie!! I was gleeked up!
I went this afternoon with Hillary and Samantha and then we met up with Jenny and Mara. We went to the other further away but bigger theater.
It was awesome because I'd never seen a 3D movie in theaters before and I'm so glad it was Glee that became my first. They gave us some nifty glasses to wear much more modern then the old blue and red ones Haha. It was awesome because we got a free Glee bag or hat for coming.
I walked away from that movie feeling so happy! It's good to have Glee back in my life again. The music, the characters, the story. Everything about Glee makes me feel so good. Like I'm proud to be the underdog. And I do embrace the underdog in me. I'm so small and awkward and everything that Glee is about. I've always been the flamboyant, skinny, music nerd. When I watch Glee, I feel like I'm apart of a powerful club. :-)
After the movie I explored campus a little more. I was shocked to see so many people on campus so late on a Sunday. Even when move in day is not till Wednesday for the undergrads. The campus is so beautiful. I love going to see the Arts area where the museum is. It's breathtaking!
I went this afternoon with Hillary and Samantha and then we met up with Jenny and Mara. We went to the other further away but bigger theater.
It was awesome because I'd never seen a 3D movie in theaters before and I'm so glad it was Glee that became my first. They gave us some nifty glasses to wear much more modern then the old blue and red ones Haha. It was awesome because we got a free Glee bag or hat for coming.
I walked away from that movie feeling so happy! It's good to have Glee back in my life again. The music, the characters, the story. Everything about Glee makes me feel so good. Like I'm proud to be the underdog. And I do embrace the underdog in me. I'm so small and awkward and everything that Glee is about. I've always been the flamboyant, skinny, music nerd. When I watch Glee, I feel like I'm apart of a powerful club. :-)
After the movie I explored campus a little more. I was shocked to see so many people on campus so late on a Sunday. Even when move in day is not till Wednesday for the undergrads. The campus is so beautiful. I love going to see the Arts area where the museum is. It's breathtaking!
Then I went home and found a way to watch TV live on my computer just in time to watch the season finale of the Glee project. A perfect end to the night. I was pretty ok with the results, but I don't want to post any spoilers. Can't wait for Season 3 to premier. Glee come back to me!!
I've got to get to sleep so I can start the day early tomorrow.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Hoosier Hospitality
So yesterday was my birff-day :-) Yay!! I am once again another year older and am now at the big 24. It was an awesome birthday. Better than I could ever plan myself. The whole day was pretty much all about Orientation. HESA ORIENTATION!! Now I get to be the student at orientation instead of the orienter. :-)
I biked on over the Education Building where it all began. We played an Ice Breaker called Electricity. Not my favorite Ice Breaker. It's pretty simple and didn't really "break the ice" but we all kind of know each other already by now.
Part one of the day was pretty much getting to know the mission, faculty, professional development, and all that jazz. Then we registered for classes, which was the easiest registration process I've ever had! I just had to sign up for 3 classes and they were all pretty much decided for me.
Part two was the fun stuff. We had lunch at Wilkie Hall and learned about IUSPA which is pretty much the HESA way of orienting and recruiting new HESA students. They also publish grad student papers in an academic journal. I'm sure we will become big in that as 2nd years next year. I can't even imagine being publish worthy right now. Then we learned all about what it means to be a Hoosier. We learned the history of the school and the program. This school has so many parts to it, it's quite overwhelming. Then we analyzed our Myers and Briggs personality type. While I thought I was more logical and guessed I was an ENTP. My results showed I was an ENFP. The Inspirer. (Extravert, Intuition, Feeler, Perceiver).
When that was over I relaxed. It was a little gift I gave myself for my birthday. I didn't want to think about anything. Especially book prices!! AH!! I finally gathered some change together and did my laundry which was well needed. So I spent most of the evening washing and folding my clothes.
It was nice to see all the love on Facebook and get calls from friends and family back home for my birthday. It's always a special day that you just can't feel bad on.
On Friday it was back to work in the office. I settled in a little more reading some things and getting my office all set up (partially). I finally learned the full details of my compensation. It's pretty nice as far as getting health and dental insurance and I get a nice check each month. I guess it's also pretty nice that they pay over $9,000 of my tuition however they still leave with with about $900 of fees to pay. Not so good to hear. Not so good to have to tell my dad. :-( I may need to consider student loans now. I hate that L-word.
Then I had lunch with Doug. Oh Doug... I just adore him. He is so nice and so personable. He bought me lunch at the Bagel Company in downtown Bloomington. It was a pretty cool place known for its community outreach.
That's Doug on the table there. The pictures on the wall and tables are all customers who have participated in service and that the restaurant has had a helping hand in.
Doug then was so nice to drive me to the HESA annual potluck that evening. Before that I got to see his house and meet his partner Marty. They have the cutest house and cutest life. Marty is a professor and I just think the two of them are so adorable.
The potluck was awesome. Full of people from faculty, to Ph.D students, to us mater students. There was so much amazing food!! And of course we got to have some famous cookies from Martha, Danielle's partner. Another freaking cute couple. It's just amazing.
After the cute gathering, it was party time for us grad students. We went to Nicks bar and everyone was there! I had a blast! I never thought I could get such a kick out of a college bar setting, but this place is just so neat.
We played a beer game I'd never heard of before. You take bucket of beer and place an empty small cup inside:
Then everyone has a glass of beer to drink in front of them. We all take turns poring a small amount of beer into the small cup. The first person that causes the cup to sink to the bottom and overflow has to poor the beer from the cup into their glass. The hardcore players play it where if you sink the cup 3 times in a row then you have to drink the bucket. Haha! We weren't attempting to get drunk by any means. It's just a fun college bar game. I had my fair share of sinks. I was pretty surprised with myself. Beer usually isn't my thing, but I think I'm acquiring it quite well.
It was so fun to hang out with all the HESA gang. I felt like this was the time we REALLY got to know each other. I'm looking forward to many more gatherings throughout the year. That is of course IF the time permits.
I got a rude awakening in many ways. Not just financially (which I honestly don't know how I'm going to handle at this point) but also academically. The 2nd years were telling us about how we are going to get whipped the first day. The readings will be harsh and the expectations will be rough. It's a whole new level. I'm way nervous, but I know I'm going to try my butt off!
Today for my Saturday I got up at the ass crack of day to go to the Hoosier to Hoosier sale which allowed me to buy some WAY CHEAP stuff that the Residence Halls sale from people leaving it behind at the end of each year. It was a good thing I went early because a ton of people where there and it got cleaned out. I got myself a microwave, pots and pans, cutting knife, cooking utensils and materials, and a nice little TV. All for $19 dollars!! What a steal.
Fortunately Michael was there with his ride and was so kind to drive me and all the stuff back to my house. Brittany, Laura, and Paul were all there too and we all were out of there by less than a half hour. It was that efficient. Paul helped me carry it inside to my apartment. Then Leslie came by to drop off her TV stand and bookcase that she didn't need anymore.
All of these things that people have done for me have been amazing. It's truly remarkable to see such a spirit of kindness. I have been offered so many rides, so much advice, and help with everything. I'm really starting to see that Indiana and IU has a hospitality like nothing I've seen before. I'm really going to love it here. :-)
Then I spent the whole rest of the day cleaning up all the boxes and garbage to reveal my new and improved and mostly finished appartment. Since my desk came, I now have the cutest computer set up.
What can I say. I love orange and green. And best of all, I've really done well to get this all as cheap as I can. I'm living life as frugal as I can because I'm gonna need all the financial help I can get just paying for school, rent, and life.
Next week is Welcome Week so hopefully I get much more acquainted with this HUGE university.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
I biked on over the Education Building where it all began. We played an Ice Breaker called Electricity. Not my favorite Ice Breaker. It's pretty simple and didn't really "break the ice" but we all kind of know each other already by now.
Part one of the day was pretty much getting to know the mission, faculty, professional development, and all that jazz. Then we registered for classes, which was the easiest registration process I've ever had! I just had to sign up for 3 classes and they were all pretty much decided for me.
Part two was the fun stuff. We had lunch at Wilkie Hall and learned about IUSPA which is pretty much the HESA way of orienting and recruiting new HESA students. They also publish grad student papers in an academic journal. I'm sure we will become big in that as 2nd years next year. I can't even imagine being publish worthy right now. Then we learned all about what it means to be a Hoosier. We learned the history of the school and the program. This school has so many parts to it, it's quite overwhelming. Then we analyzed our Myers and Briggs personality type. While I thought I was more logical and guessed I was an ENTP. My results showed I was an ENFP. The Inspirer. (Extravert, Intuition, Feeler, Perceiver).
When that was over I relaxed. It was a little gift I gave myself for my birthday. I didn't want to think about anything. Especially book prices!! AH!! I finally gathered some change together and did my laundry which was well needed. So I spent most of the evening washing and folding my clothes.
On Friday it was back to work in the office. I settled in a little more reading some things and getting my office all set up (partially). I finally learned the full details of my compensation. It's pretty nice as far as getting health and dental insurance and I get a nice check each month. I guess it's also pretty nice that they pay over $9,000 of my tuition however they still leave with with about $900 of fees to pay. Not so good to hear. Not so good to have to tell my dad. :-( I may need to consider student loans now. I hate that L-word.
Then I had lunch with Doug. Oh Doug... I just adore him. He is so nice and so personable. He bought me lunch at the Bagel Company in downtown Bloomington. It was a pretty cool place known for its community outreach.
That's Doug on the table there. The pictures on the wall and tables are all customers who have participated in service and that the restaurant has had a helping hand in.
Doug then was so nice to drive me to the HESA annual potluck that evening. Before that I got to see his house and meet his partner Marty. They have the cutest house and cutest life. Marty is a professor and I just think the two of them are so adorable.
The potluck was awesome. Full of people from faculty, to Ph.D students, to us mater students. There was so much amazing food!! And of course we got to have some famous cookies from Martha, Danielle's partner. Another freaking cute couple. It's just amazing.
After the cute gathering, it was party time for us grad students. We went to Nicks bar and everyone was there! I had a blast! I never thought I could get such a kick out of a college bar setting, but this place is just so neat.
We played a beer game I'd never heard of before. You take bucket of beer and place an empty small cup inside:
Then everyone has a glass of beer to drink in front of them. We all take turns poring a small amount of beer into the small cup. The first person that causes the cup to sink to the bottom and overflow has to poor the beer from the cup into their glass. The hardcore players play it where if you sink the cup 3 times in a row then you have to drink the bucket. Haha! We weren't attempting to get drunk by any means. It's just a fun college bar game. I had my fair share of sinks. I was pretty surprised with myself. Beer usually isn't my thing, but I think I'm acquiring it quite well.
It was so fun to hang out with all the HESA gang. I felt like this was the time we REALLY got to know each other. I'm looking forward to many more gatherings throughout the year. That is of course IF the time permits.
I got a rude awakening in many ways. Not just financially (which I honestly don't know how I'm going to handle at this point) but also academically. The 2nd years were telling us about how we are going to get whipped the first day. The readings will be harsh and the expectations will be rough. It's a whole new level. I'm way nervous, but I know I'm going to try my butt off!
Today for my Saturday I got up at the ass crack of day to go to the Hoosier to Hoosier sale which allowed me to buy some WAY CHEAP stuff that the Residence Halls sale from people leaving it behind at the end of each year. It was a good thing I went early because a ton of people where there and it got cleaned out. I got myself a microwave, pots and pans, cutting knife, cooking utensils and materials, and a nice little TV. All for $19 dollars!! What a steal.
Fortunately Michael was there with his ride and was so kind to drive me and all the stuff back to my house. Brittany, Laura, and Paul were all there too and we all were out of there by less than a half hour. It was that efficient. Paul helped me carry it inside to my apartment. Then Leslie came by to drop off her TV stand and bookcase that she didn't need anymore.
All of these things that people have done for me have been amazing. It's truly remarkable to see such a spirit of kindness. I have been offered so many rides, so much advice, and help with everything. I'm really starting to see that Indiana and IU has a hospitality like nothing I've seen before. I'm really going to love it here. :-)
Then I spent the whole rest of the day cleaning up all the boxes and garbage to reveal my new and improved and mostly finished appartment. Since my desk came, I now have the cutest computer set up.
What can I say. I love orange and green. And best of all, I've really done well to get this all as cheap as I can. I'm living life as frugal as I can because I'm gonna need all the financial help I can get just paying for school, rent, and life.
Next week is Welcome Week so hopefully I get much more acquainted with this HUGE university.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
COMU Time
Today was so awesome! Again so much was going on. I feel like this past week so many things have been happening that it's been overwhelming to reflect on it all.
I was feeling good this morning even though I was a little nervous because the first thing on my agenda was tabling at the RPS fair and with me still being way new, I was nervous to represent COMU. However, I was feeling like a rock star with my orange shirt and Greek Life shades right before I left for work
The fair was a great success! I literally came with only brochures and a sign up sheet to represent COMU. But as the day progressed I found that by engaging myself with the students I had a lot of people interested in our cause. It was also nice to be at a fair with RA's because they actually want information and they are excited to learn more for their students. Not to mention that this is no commuter school, where seeking interested students to get involved is like pulling teeth. It was much more easy to talk with the students.
This will be one of the rare chances I get to work directly with students so I was loving the moment. Doug was right next to me from the GLBT center so it was awesome to table with him. I was able to get a good number of sign ups, so I have some work ahead of me to organize the contact lists.
Later that afternoon we took our group pictures outside for the SLL office. Outside the Union building is just so beautiful. Every entrance to the Union is so monumental and takes your breath away.
Then I had the rest of the day to do my work with COMU and spend time in my new office. I was so excited to finally get some pictures and the location and space. It is so cool that I had to take a video. I spent the day checking e-mails and settling into the space.
Later that night I was invited over to Melissa's house (The Melissa who works for the Union Board) for dinner and socializing. I went with the SLL and UB Grad Assistants. Michael was so nice to come pick me up and take me even after I looked a mess after biking back up the hill from the Kroger on College Ave. It was so hot! I think I sweated so bad my pores are going to seek revenge on me. :-( It was so nice to chat with Michael on the car ride. He is like me and is very observant and reflexive when it comes to his experiences. He is also a total sweetheart for mentoring me and lending a helping hand. It was so fun to connect with all of GAs. We had some great laughs and talks about HESA and the offices. Indiana University is very acronym friendly. We also played a really neat game throwing bean bags into a hole to gain points. It got pretty competitive.
Now I'm back at home. I'm gonna shower before my my skin jumps out of my body. It was so nice to talk with my dad and aunt on the phone today. They have been so supportive checking up on me. I love updating them. It makes me feel that much less alone.
Tomorrow is HESA Orientation. I can't wait to see everyone, but I'm a little nervous to be oriented on all that graduate school will be about. I only hope my classes work out ok and my books are cheap. Plus it's my birthday tomorrow so I'm looking forward to seeing what the day brings.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
I was feeling good this morning even though I was a little nervous because the first thing on my agenda was tabling at the RPS fair and with me still being way new, I was nervous to represent COMU. However, I was feeling like a rock star with my orange shirt and Greek Life shades right before I left for work
The fair was a great success! I literally came with only brochures and a sign up sheet to represent COMU. But as the day progressed I found that by engaging myself with the students I had a lot of people interested in our cause. It was also nice to be at a fair with RA's because they actually want information and they are excited to learn more for their students. Not to mention that this is no commuter school, where seeking interested students to get involved is like pulling teeth. It was much more easy to talk with the students.
This will be one of the rare chances I get to work directly with students so I was loving the moment. Doug was right next to me from the GLBT center so it was awesome to table with him. I was able to get a good number of sign ups, so I have some work ahead of me to organize the contact lists.
Later that afternoon we took our group pictures outside for the SLL office. Outside the Union building is just so beautiful. Every entrance to the Union is so monumental and takes your breath away.
Then I had the rest of the day to do my work with COMU and spend time in my new office. I was so excited to finally get some pictures and the location and space. It is so cool that I had to take a video. I spent the day checking e-mails and settling into the space.
Later that night I was invited over to Melissa's house (The Melissa who works for the Union Board) for dinner and socializing. I went with the SLL and UB Grad Assistants. Michael was so nice to come pick me up and take me even after I looked a mess after biking back up the hill from the Kroger on College Ave. It was so hot! I think I sweated so bad my pores are going to seek revenge on me. :-( It was so nice to chat with Michael on the car ride. He is like me and is very observant and reflexive when it comes to his experiences. He is also a total sweetheart for mentoring me and lending a helping hand. It was so fun to connect with all of GAs. We had some great laughs and talks about HESA and the offices. Indiana University is very acronym friendly. We also played a really neat game throwing bean bags into a hole to gain points. It got pretty competitive.
Now I'm back at home. I'm gonna shower before my my skin jumps out of my body. It was so nice to talk with my dad and aunt on the phone today. They have been so supportive checking up on me. I love updating them. It makes me feel that much less alone.
Tomorrow is HESA Orientation. I can't wait to see everyone, but I'm a little nervous to be oriented on all that graduate school will be about. I only hope my classes work out ok and my books are cheap. Plus it's my birthday tomorrow so I'm looking forward to seeing what the day brings.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Acclimation
It's finally here! My computer arrived today so now I am writing this blog from my new iMac in my room. Now I can't wait for my desk and chair to arrive.
Today was a jam packed day full of ups and downs. Mostly good of course. SLL Orientation Day 2 was a little more down to business. We talked about the Indiana Promise (A Community of Caring) and Mentoring. It was a good round of discussions.
Then we went to Nicks for lunch. Nicks is one of Bloomington's most traditional and famous restaurants. I actually got to go there once before during HESA Outreach. It was so amazing and ever since I had always wanted to come back and have the garlic fries again. Fortunately I did just that today.
Today was a jam packed day full of ups and downs. Mostly good of course. SLL Orientation Day 2 was a little more down to business. We talked about the Indiana Promise (A Community of Caring) and Mentoring. It was a good round of discussions.
Then we went to Nicks for lunch. Nicks is one of Bloomington's most traditional and famous restaurants. I actually got to go there once before during HESA Outreach. It was so amazing and ever since I had always wanted to come back and have the garlic fries again. Fortunately I did just that today.
It was so delicious! These fries are seriously to die for. Nicks is on Kirkwood Street which is the street for all the hotspots on Bloomington.
The whole campus is just so beautiful. As I walked back to the office I really began to take in all that was around me. The buildings look like castles and the campus just gives you such a academic feel. There are so many historical values to the campus and there are so many important places and things to see here. This is about the time when I realized to myself that I'm here and I'm really pursuing the next level of my education. It so incredible to think that I've been here for a week now. Life is so different now, but in a good way. It's all changed so fast in just a few days. It's incredible!
When we got back, that's when I really dived into my duties of the position. I met with Darrell, Colleen, and Jared for an Inclusion and Civic Engagement team meeting. I learned SO much in this meeting. I found out how much of an impact our office has on First Year Experiences and Service Groups. It was really cool to learn I may be able to participate in these events and meetings.
The best part was walking across the street to see my new office at the GLBT Center. I met Doug the director for the first time and it was so cool to see the Center and my new work space and office. Pictures will definitely come soon. I didn't get to spend to much time because I had work to do to get me into the system for payroll and HR.
It's really been a crazy process for me. I think the ID system has flaws because I haven't been able to obtain a student ID this whole week. They don't issue them to students until August 22nd yet I need it now. I can't ride the buses and I can't even do my laundry without this card. Fortunately, I did get into the system today but i could take up to 3 more days for it to show up for the people at the ID card place, I guess I'll be ok until that time. I have to be.
I spent the rest of the evening getting my computer all set up and listening to music on itunes since I now have a 100 dollar gift card that came with purchasing the iMac through the educational discount. I needed to be up to date with all the new music releases and there are some good ones. i'm so excited that Natalia Kills album came out today!
Well... now it's late and tomorrow I have a big day. Its my first fair that i will be tabling at for work, More updates to come.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Monday, August 15, 2011
A Whole New World
First day on the job! What a day! It was so awesome to meet everyone from my office at Student Life and Learning. I was so geeky excited to start SLL Orientation. I put on my bright yellow shirt since I was feeling as bright and happy today. :-) I was grateful to have found the location of the office so quickly. I was thinking it would be a little hidden in the Union. We started the agenda with a delicious breakfast. They day was packed full of information and fun.
Then we got to know each other by using a little ice-breaker from the "Self Esteem Bowl" We wrote down questions and put them in the bowl and each person from the office took turns answering them. Some were very creative such as What is your Secret Dream Job? or What would the person to your left win most likely of in High School? It was such a fun way for the group to connect and add a playful environment to the meeting.
It was intimidating at first being the only first year HESA GA in the office, but things lighted up as I became more and more comfortable with the group. I'm actually so excited to have the 2nd year students help me and work with me in the assistantship.
The whole office is really quite neat. There are spaces for the GA's and Assistant Directors. It all seems to be a very connected office and each person has a very unique role in the big picture of Student Life and Learning. I was lucky enough that over the summer the organization had their Strategic Planning and had the overall plan discussed in this Orientation. It really helped me learn the bits and pieces of the office and how it all comes together and also who is the point person for each of these components.
I'm not going to lie. I felt like a still had SO much to learn and it seems overwhelming but I know walking into any job for the first time will always feel like everyone is miles ahead of you. Also, It seems like my position is relatively new and open to experimentation and growth. I'm excited to learn more and work in the COMU library. I'm excited to meet and work with Doug in the GLBT center.
We had many opportunities to socialize and break from the agenda. We had lunch at a Pizzaria in the downtown area of Bloomington. It was delicious and so much fun to further connect with the office staff.
Highlights from the day included giving Jared a new nickname of Jerediah, Michael's GRE story from his faculty interview, and Chris singing a Whole New World (of possibilities) and relating it to Strategic Planning.
After SLL Orientation I tried to hurry as fast as I could to the Student ID office in Engelmann to get my ID and bus pass before they closed at 5PM. It was so frustrating because I literally made it there at 4:59 and the closed the door in my face and said "sorry we're closed." I was so aggrivated! I told them please give me a chance since I was the only one there and I had a little trouble finding the area. They wouldn't give me the time of day. They told me that they close at 5pm and they are not allowed to stay a minute later. I felt completely spit on. I really think they need to do a serious re-evaluation of their office mission and values.
Later that evening we all went over to Steve (the director)'s house for an evening food social. It was such a nice place in a cute area of Bloomington. We had fruit, snacks, burgers, and hot dogs. And Judy brought the most AMAZING dip I'd ever seen. A cream cheese, chili, and 2-cheese layered dip.
It was so fun to chat with all the other students and directors from the office. It was nice to be informal and really get to know each other for the first day. Even though I'm totally new, I feel like it be easy to get comfortable with the office.
Now I'm back in the lab. My computer still has not arrived yet, but I know it'll be here tomorrow. I can't wait! I think I'm going to call it an early night and get some rest for the day tomorrow.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Sunday, August 14, 2011
The Calm Before The Storm
It's now the weekend before I start my new assistantship and I've already gotten acquainted with many of my cohort members. On Friday I didn't do much of anything. I was so tired of shopping and thinking about what I needed that I spent most of the day sleeping and browsing the computer in the computer lab. I did buy my computer desk and chair online to be shipped to me. I got the desk on Sam's Club online for a good price thanks to Aunt Wendy who lent me her membership. I got the chair on Amazon. They are both really cute and reasonably priced. Even with my tight budget I have been able to give my room a sour apple green and vibrant orange color theme.
On Saturday I bought the fabric for the shower curtain, my bed quilt/pillowcase, bathroom rug, towel, and washcloth at Target that all match the green/orange scheme. I know I'm bold for choosing those colors. But that's who I am... I just love to be colorful. Can't wait to show pictures of the computer set up when it all comes. Most of all, I'll be glad not to have to use this lab anymore once I get my computer. I've been smart and fortunate enough to do this fast and in a way where I don't need a car to transport it. I was told that next week all the undergrads will arrive for move in and this town is going to blow up! They told me it will be so busy that I literally will have to wait in lines everywhere, so I'm glad I'm getting a lot of this done now.
Late that afternoon I had a real scare. While I was at Target getting everything, my mind must have been so preoccupied that I didn't realize I left my iTouch on a shelf somewhere shopping. It had my list and budget on it so I had it out frequently for reference. I didn't realize it was gone till I was halfway on the bus ride back. I freaked out!! I immediately called Target praying that some good person had turned it in. My first call was no luck, nothing had been turned in. I still got home dropped my bags, hopped on my bike and sped toward Target. When I got there I tried the customer service desk again and THANKFULLY there it was turned in to one of the clerks. The whole way there I kept thinking "Oh God! it's gone... I've lost my $250 iTouch. What will I do!?" I wanted to kiss the clerk when I saw it turned in. Thank God it fell in the hands of an honest, caring person. Who ever it was that turned it in, I hope something good happens to them. I hope they know that they saved me a horrible panic stress attack. I'm so glad a good person found it in a world full of horrible people who would pocket it for themselves.
After that, I didn't have time to go home and change or get ready. I looked decent so I biked over to the HESA pool party WAY south of Bloomington. I was one of the first 1st years to arrive. It was really fun to connect with all the 2nd years, some who I reconnected with from seeing at Outreach. Then everyone started arriving around 6:30pm and I met a good amount of people from my class.
We gathered around the pool for a meet and greet and ate good food and talked about many things. The 2nd years were so funny and charismatic. I hope I become that in the upcoming year. I want to be the fun, crazy, and welcoming 2nd year for the next incoming class. I really think this program is going to change me in many ways and really make me grow.
Ok... with all the fun and laughs one freaky thing was brought to my attention. Cockroaches! Apparently the campus housing has them and it's not uncommon to see them on a fairly regular basis. Apparently it is also just an Indiana thing! I was so freaked out. I honestly don't know what i'll do when I see my first cockroach. I can't handle it since there are virtually none in Utah. Ick!!
Anyway late that night the storm settled in. The sky was full of thunder and lightning and rain. It was really quite beautiful. I got a call that night from Melissa asking if I wanted to meet up with her and Miriam to go to Uncle E's bar. I was totally down! They were so nice to come pick me up and we arrived there at about midnight or so. It was a pretty small bar. But fairly poppin'. It was way fun to drink and dance with Melissa and Miriam. They definitely know how to have fun.
I did have a follower that night. One of the local drag queens of the club who was not in drag that night seemed to be all over me. At first I thought it was just friendly, but I think there may have been other intensions. I think I tried to make no hints of mutual interest, but I dunno... It was interesting.
Later that night before I went home we went to McDonald's and afterward Melissa lent me her two fans. This made my room so much cooler so now I think I can eliminate the air conditioner from my budget.
So today I haven't done anything. There really isn't much to do since it's Sunday. I battled with my bathtub to get the stopper out and take a shower. Tomorrow it all begins. My new job. My new routine. I definitely need to do laundry. What sucks is it cost money to use the facility here. Not to mention there are only 3 washers and dryers for the whole building to use. Better do it today before the mass of people move in tomorrow. I wanted to get my shelves and lamp at Target today but I freaked out when I saw my bank account. I only have $668 left. And I still have to make my first housing payment. I pleaded with my dad on the phone to help give me some wiggle room for money. It was painful to ask but I really can't make due right now. I'm going to have to put a halt on buying for a while. I HATE MONEY STRESS!!!
Next week will be a real experience for me. Let's hope this transition continues to run slightly smooth.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
On Saturday I bought the fabric for the shower curtain, my bed quilt/pillowcase, bathroom rug, towel, and washcloth at Target that all match the green/orange scheme. I know I'm bold for choosing those colors. But that's who I am... I just love to be colorful. Can't wait to show pictures of the computer set up when it all comes. Most of all, I'll be glad not to have to use this lab anymore once I get my computer. I've been smart and fortunate enough to do this fast and in a way where I don't need a car to transport it. I was told that next week all the undergrads will arrive for move in and this town is going to blow up! They told me it will be so busy that I literally will have to wait in lines everywhere, so I'm glad I'm getting a lot of this done now.
Late that afternoon I had a real scare. While I was at Target getting everything, my mind must have been so preoccupied that I didn't realize I left my iTouch on a shelf somewhere shopping. It had my list and budget on it so I had it out frequently for reference. I didn't realize it was gone till I was halfway on the bus ride back. I freaked out!! I immediately called Target praying that some good person had turned it in. My first call was no luck, nothing had been turned in. I still got home dropped my bags, hopped on my bike and sped toward Target. When I got there I tried the customer service desk again and THANKFULLY there it was turned in to one of the clerks. The whole way there I kept thinking "Oh God! it's gone... I've lost my $250 iTouch. What will I do!?" I wanted to kiss the clerk when I saw it turned in. Thank God it fell in the hands of an honest, caring person. Who ever it was that turned it in, I hope something good happens to them. I hope they know that they saved me a horrible panic stress attack. I'm so glad a good person found it in a world full of horrible people who would pocket it for themselves.
After that, I didn't have time to go home and change or get ready. I looked decent so I biked over to the HESA pool party WAY south of Bloomington. I was one of the first 1st years to arrive. It was really fun to connect with all the 2nd years, some who I reconnected with from seeing at Outreach. Then everyone started arriving around 6:30pm and I met a good amount of people from my class.
We gathered around the pool for a meet and greet and ate good food and talked about many things. The 2nd years were so funny and charismatic. I hope I become that in the upcoming year. I want to be the fun, crazy, and welcoming 2nd year for the next incoming class. I really think this program is going to change me in many ways and really make me grow.
Anyway late that night the storm settled in. The sky was full of thunder and lightning and rain. It was really quite beautiful. I got a call that night from Melissa asking if I wanted to meet up with her and Miriam to go to Uncle E's bar. I was totally down! They were so nice to come pick me up and we arrived there at about midnight or so. It was a pretty small bar. But fairly poppin'. It was way fun to drink and dance with Melissa and Miriam. They definitely know how to have fun.
I did have a follower that night. One of the local drag queens of the club who was not in drag that night seemed to be all over me. At first I thought it was just friendly, but I think there may have been other intensions. I think I tried to make no hints of mutual interest, but I dunno... It was interesting.
Later that night before I went home we went to McDonald's and afterward Melissa lent me her two fans. This made my room so much cooler so now I think I can eliminate the air conditioner from my budget.
So today I haven't done anything. There really isn't much to do since it's Sunday. I battled with my bathtub to get the stopper out and take a shower. Tomorrow it all begins. My new job. My new routine. I definitely need to do laundry. What sucks is it cost money to use the facility here. Not to mention there are only 3 washers and dryers for the whole building to use. Better do it today before the mass of people move in tomorrow. I wanted to get my shelves and lamp at Target today but I freaked out when I saw my bank account. I only have $668 left. And I still have to make my first housing payment. I pleaded with my dad on the phone to help give me some wiggle room for money. It was painful to ask but I really can't make due right now. I'm going to have to put a halt on buying for a while. I HATE MONEY STRESS!!!
Next week will be a real experience for me. Let's hope this transition continues to run slightly smooth.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Friday, August 12, 2011
Settling In
So it's my 3rd day here in Indiana and already things are getting a lot better. I bought quite a few more things that I needed. I bought a queen size air mattress and an Indiana University blanket. Now I can sleep comfortably! Haha... This is the bed I had to improvise before I got my air mattress:
Made out of the clothes from my suitcase and a pack of toilet paper. Fortunately now I can sleep on this:
I still need a sheet to go over the mattress, but I'm certainly not worrying about that so soon. I also bought my shower curtains and most importantly I bought MY NEW IMAC!! Yay!! I had to buy it over the phone because A - They didn't have any in stock at the bookstore!! (Which makes no sense considering no undergrads have even arrived for the fall yet. They need to get it together!) and B - I needed to split the payments for me to pay for half and my dad to pay the other half. A fair deal considering I could never have afforded the full payment and my dad is getting my very nice previous computer in return. The only downside is that it may not even come until Tuesday when I was told it was 24 hour shipping. Oh well... I can survive in this computer lab until then.
I put together a very tight budget for all my other needs. So far it's looking good I've saved about $70 so far from what I had budgeted for the computer, bike, air matress, blanket, shower curtains, pillow, and food. My plan (since I do not have a vehicle) is to purchase most of my stuff online in the hope that it will all ship to me. If I continue to stick to my budget I can leave myself with about $800 left to carry me through to the school year for books, fees, and a cushion for my very low assistantship stipend. Who knows what other barriers I will run into though. I'm a little worried about my first housing payment though. They want $653 right from the start but there is no way I can pay this until I start getting a paycheck.
Aside from the budget stress, I've already started to have some awesome experiences. For starters, the humidly here is quite nice. Not so much where you feel way sticky. But also way more than in Utah. Like last night when I made myself a PB&J sandwich, the bread was SO moist. More moist than I had ever tasted. It was delicious.
I also got to meet 2 of my first year HESA cohort, Melissa and Demitri, for the first time! We went and saw a late showing of The Help at the movie theater over by the College Mall at 10:30pm. It was interesting locating and getting to this theater. None of the people in our group had vehicles either (which actually brought comfort to me since I was worried no one else would going car-less like me) So we all decided to walk to the theater. It was only about a 30 minute walk, but google took us on quite the route. Through neighborhoods and weird walkways. It was fun though. I was really looking forward to seeing the movie because the book was so good. It was quite long of a movie but so good. We ended up leaving the theater at 1AM but it was still fun to make the walk back. I learned a lot about my new friends.
Today I'm just relaxing. I'm probably going to stay in the computer lab for most of the day doing online shopping and researching more and more about Bloomington. I don't really want to buy anything today because I'll be ok for a bit. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow because I'll get to meet quite a few of my cohort at a Pool Party we have planned. Maybe i'll take a late bike ride to see the local area and explore. Btw here is my new bike. It's certainly nothing special, but it's new and will last me a while:
I'm gonna go make me another sandwich. My choices will be pretty limited until I buy some pots, pans, utensils, and a microwave.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Made out of the clothes from my suitcase and a pack of toilet paper. Fortunately now I can sleep on this:
I still need a sheet to go over the mattress, but I'm certainly not worrying about that so soon. I also bought my shower curtains and most importantly I bought MY NEW IMAC!! Yay!! I had to buy it over the phone because A - They didn't have any in stock at the bookstore!! (Which makes no sense considering no undergrads have even arrived for the fall yet. They need to get it together!) and B - I needed to split the payments for me to pay for half and my dad to pay the other half. A fair deal considering I could never have afforded the full payment and my dad is getting my very nice previous computer in return. The only downside is that it may not even come until Tuesday when I was told it was 24 hour shipping. Oh well... I can survive in this computer lab until then.
I put together a very tight budget for all my other needs. So far it's looking good I've saved about $70 so far from what I had budgeted for the computer, bike, air matress, blanket, shower curtains, pillow, and food. My plan (since I do not have a vehicle) is to purchase most of my stuff online in the hope that it will all ship to me. If I continue to stick to my budget I can leave myself with about $800 left to carry me through to the school year for books, fees, and a cushion for my very low assistantship stipend. Who knows what other barriers I will run into though. I'm a little worried about my first housing payment though. They want $653 right from the start but there is no way I can pay this until I start getting a paycheck.
Aside from the budget stress, I've already started to have some awesome experiences. For starters, the humidly here is quite nice. Not so much where you feel way sticky. But also way more than in Utah. Like last night when I made myself a PB&J sandwich, the bread was SO moist. More moist than I had ever tasted. It was delicious.
I also got to meet 2 of my first year HESA cohort, Melissa and Demitri, for the first time! We went and saw a late showing of The Help at the movie theater over by the College Mall at 10:30pm. It was interesting locating and getting to this theater. None of the people in our group had vehicles either (which actually brought comfort to me since I was worried no one else would going car-less like me) So we all decided to walk to the theater. It was only about a 30 minute walk, but google took us on quite the route. Through neighborhoods and weird walkways. It was fun though. I was really looking forward to seeing the movie because the book was so good. It was quite long of a movie but so good. We ended up leaving the theater at 1AM but it was still fun to make the walk back. I learned a lot about my new friends.
Today I'm just relaxing. I'm probably going to stay in the computer lab for most of the day doing online shopping and researching more and more about Bloomington. I don't really want to buy anything today because I'll be ok for a bit. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow because I'll get to meet quite a few of my cohort at a Pool Party we have planned. Maybe i'll take a late bike ride to see the local area and explore. Btw here is my new bike. It's certainly nothing special, but it's new and will last me a while:
I'm gonna go make me another sandwich. My choices will be pretty limited until I buy some pots, pans, utensils, and a microwave.
Smiling as always,
Cameron
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Adventure Begins!
Holy Cow I'm here! I'm finally here in Bloomington, IN to begin this new chapter of my life. Graduate School!!
It's technically Day 1 even though I arrived here way late last night. My HESA Buddy Brandon was so kind and picked me up from the airport in Indianapolis and let me crash on his couch until I could move into my apartment.
I can't believe I'm here! What a crazy amazing feeling. I can't even begin to explain how stressed I was leading up to this moment. I came here with literally nothing. Just two bags of luggage and a very empty, unfurnished apartment.
When I first walked into this place, I was definitely a little scared. It's certainly nothing special. I think the first thing that struck me was the hard floor. No carpet anywhere! I was so overwhelmed because this place truly has nothing. No microwave. No bed. No air conditioning! I have a lot of work to and not a lot of money to do it.
I started the day off with another new 2nd year HESA friend, Nicole taking me to lunch at a nice local place and then helping me move my bags into the place. Then I took my first IU shuttle ride down to 3rd Street and walked a short distance to the College Mall.
My first priority was to find a bed but I didn't really have any luck. The place I went to was a little pricy so I decided to hold back a bit until I could figure out a cheaper Plan B. After all I only have $2,000 to make this work and I need to buy my computer which will eat most of that up.
Then I went to Target which was close by. This was a melt down. I walked up and down the isles, only to make a HUGE list of things I was going to need and make myself totally freak out thinking about how on earth I was going to pay for all of this! There was one amusing thing I observed when getting my food for the week.
There it was sitting on the endcap shelves of the grocery isle. Hard liquor at a Target!! Right there next to the frozen foods. Something you will NEVER see at the grocery stores in Utah. Hello Indiana. :-) Am I glad to be here
Anyway... I knew I could only get the bare minimum of needs for the day because I have no car to take it all back in. However I ended up getting a little too much to carry. So I decided this was the day to buy my bike, and I bought a small blue Magna bike for $100 with the locks. This made it a little easier to carry the bags back. The painful part was hauling it all upstairs of the apartments since the place has no elevators. That was torture. Then I had to wait for them to repair my shower because the stopper was broken. I was so glad when it got fixed because I could not image not showering after the rigorous shopping and carrying frenzy.
After all the pain and stress, things got way better and positive after I put on some music and realized that the hard floor made a perfect dance floor. I made a sandwich and realized everything was going to be ok. It's not the luxury life I had before, but I could make it by. I'm going to have to. It's my time to be more independent.
I took a shower with no shower curtain. And I will sleep tonight with no bed, but I know gradually things will come together. At least until I get my computer, I have this nifty computer lab to use.
Hopefully tomorrow I find a bed. Or maybe an air mattress to buy me some time. Hopefully I meet more people. Either way I'm so excited to be here starting my new life and to know that I'm finally out of Utah!
Smiling as always,
Cameron
It's technically Day 1 even though I arrived here way late last night. My HESA Buddy Brandon was so kind and picked me up from the airport in Indianapolis and let me crash on his couch until I could move into my apartment.
I can't believe I'm here! What a crazy amazing feeling. I can't even begin to explain how stressed I was leading up to this moment. I came here with literally nothing. Just two bags of luggage and a very empty, unfurnished apartment.
When I first walked into this place, I was definitely a little scared. It's certainly nothing special. I think the first thing that struck me was the hard floor. No carpet anywhere! I was so overwhelmed because this place truly has nothing. No microwave. No bed. No air conditioning! I have a lot of work to and not a lot of money to do it.
I started the day off with another new 2nd year HESA friend, Nicole taking me to lunch at a nice local place and then helping me move my bags into the place. Then I took my first IU shuttle ride down to 3rd Street and walked a short distance to the College Mall.
My first priority was to find a bed but I didn't really have any luck. The place I went to was a little pricy so I decided to hold back a bit until I could figure out a cheaper Plan B. After all I only have $2,000 to make this work and I need to buy my computer which will eat most of that up.
Then I went to Target which was close by. This was a melt down. I walked up and down the isles, only to make a HUGE list of things I was going to need and make myself totally freak out thinking about how on earth I was going to pay for all of this! There was one amusing thing I observed when getting my food for the week.
There it was sitting on the endcap shelves of the grocery isle. Hard liquor at a Target!! Right there next to the frozen foods. Something you will NEVER see at the grocery stores in Utah. Hello Indiana. :-) Am I glad to be here
Anyway... I knew I could only get the bare minimum of needs for the day because I have no car to take it all back in. However I ended up getting a little too much to carry. So I decided this was the day to buy my bike, and I bought a small blue Magna bike for $100 with the locks. This made it a little easier to carry the bags back. The painful part was hauling it all upstairs of the apartments since the place has no elevators. That was torture. Then I had to wait for them to repair my shower because the stopper was broken. I was so glad when it got fixed because I could not image not showering after the rigorous shopping and carrying frenzy.
After all the pain and stress, things got way better and positive after I put on some music and realized that the hard floor made a perfect dance floor. I made a sandwich and realized everything was going to be ok. It's not the luxury life I had before, but I could make it by. I'm going to have to. It's my time to be more independent.
I took a shower with no shower curtain. And I will sleep tonight with no bed, but I know gradually things will come together. At least until I get my computer, I have this nifty computer lab to use.
Hopefully tomorrow I find a bed. Or maybe an air mattress to buy me some time. Hopefully I meet more people. Either way I'm so excited to be here starting my new life and to know that I'm finally out of Utah!
Smiling as always,
Cameron
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