Every summer I come back a new person. More mature in my mind, body, and spirit. More focused on who it is I am and want to be. I become more confident in myself and capabilities that are within. There I learned how to truly be a leader, not in the since of just doing what is right and hoping people are following by example, but actually leading people every day for the full two months of the summer. Camp Mishawaka [mish-a-wak-a] is more than just a summer camp. It is an experience of a lifetime.
Every summer, for the past four years I had been attending a summer session at Camp Mishawaka. During my last session I was a Counselor In Training [CIT]. CIT's were the eldest of the campers, and were role models for the younger campers. As a CIT there were numerous responsibilities and duties we had. Just a few were things such as waking up early and singing to the girl, setting tables, conducting confidential meetings, being adventurous and daring. Also we have: lead a group on a hiking or canoeing trip. We CITs did all sorts of thing to make the camp experience even more fun than it was. By doing so we gained great trust of the campers and also counselors. People came to us for advice or just to talk to us when they needed someone to listen. Having such an experience changed me completely. I learned how to communicate with others, work as a team, and to be an overall leader and positive thinker.
The camp is located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, about nine hours driving time, away from my home and family. The first time I attended, I only attended a two week session, but I soon increased that time to be a two month session. The thought of staying away from my brothers for such a long time had never crossed my mind. Going to college away from my family was something I always wanted, but I did not know if I could last. After amazing experiences at Camp Mishawaka, I will forever hold a life experience that I will never forget about. My CIT year really proved to me that I can have faith and support in my own goals in life. That I can be a strong leader and feel good about decisions I have made. Now I cannot wait to continue to put these great tools to use. I still to this day continue to keep in contact with almost everyone at the camp and I can call them and talk to them about anything I want. We are forever bonded together through our camp experience and we are grateful for that.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Personal Statement: Admirer
She is a rock. She remains my main role model and motivator. She has helped me prevail through everything in my life. She has influenced every decision I have made in my life whether it affected me in a huge way or not. This woman is the person I go to first for advice or even just to talk. She knows more about me than my mother and best friend. I thank God everyday for the privilege of having such an amazing woman in my life. I feel so lucky to know that I have the best grandmother in the world.
“Che’Lynn, you are a very strong, beautiful, and intelligent soul. God took what my son was and all the things your mom wants to be and put them in you, I am so proud and overjoyed that you are my granddaughter, I love you most”. My grandma told me that when I needed her to the most. I was completely ready to give up on everything and everyone, but for some she always says something that makes me reconsider my attitude and mindset. She always seems to be the only person that can influence my mind and decisions. She was the first person that challenged my views on killing someone with kindness. I had always thought that phrase was impossible to achieve. Before, if I had encountered someone that was rude and disrespectful to me for no reason, then I would be the same. After actually being in the situation and listening to the advice my grandmother gave me, I no longer feel the need to degrade myself by lowering my potential and abilities. There was many other life learned lesson that I have gotten though, by not being told what to do, but by being explained both sides, then making my own decision as I may. Learning that way helps me more than my grandmother can even imagine, and I thank her.
This person is respected and admired the most by me because she is one of the strongest women I know. She is a walking example of someone who never gives up or never stops trying. I admire my grandmother’s strength. She gives me strength to excel in what I do. I challenge myself everyday so that she can continue to show push me to the limit. I like to think that it is her job, even though I know she does it because she believes in me and that she loves me. I also know my grandma does not have to continue to be as wonderful to me as she is, therefore I know never to take her for granted. I feel strong, beautiful, courageous, confident, and all kinds of empowerment, all from this one woman. I only thank God for blessing me with each and every day here with her and try to prepare myself for that first day I’m on my own in college, miles away from her. What am I going to do!
“Che’Lynn, you are a very strong, beautiful, and intelligent soul. God took what my son was and all the things your mom wants to be and put them in you, I am so proud and overjoyed that you are my granddaughter, I love you most”. My grandma told me that when I needed her to the most. I was completely ready to give up on everything and everyone, but for some she always says something that makes me reconsider my attitude and mindset. She always seems to be the only person that can influence my mind and decisions. She was the first person that challenged my views on killing someone with kindness. I had always thought that phrase was impossible to achieve. Before, if I had encountered someone that was rude and disrespectful to me for no reason, then I would be the same. After actually being in the situation and listening to the advice my grandmother gave me, I no longer feel the need to degrade myself by lowering my potential and abilities. There was many other life learned lesson that I have gotten though, by not being told what to do, but by being explained both sides, then making my own decision as I may. Learning that way helps me more than my grandmother can even imagine, and I thank her.
This person is respected and admired the most by me because she is one of the strongest women I know. She is a walking example of someone who never gives up or never stops trying. I admire my grandmother’s strength. She gives me strength to excel in what I do. I challenge myself everyday so that she can continue to show push me to the limit. I like to think that it is her job, even though I know she does it because she believes in me and that she loves me. I also know my grandma does not have to continue to be as wonderful to me as she is, therefore I know never to take her for granted. I feel strong, beautiful, courageous, confident, and all kinds of empowerment, all from this one woman. I only thank God for blessing me with each and every day here with her and try to prepare myself for that first day I’m on my own in college, miles away from her. What am I going to do!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
My First Week as a College Student
Oh my lord!! My first week as a college student was everything but simple and easy. In my opinion the first and second day of college was the easiest. I say that because the class work and introductions were on the simple side. The class that I am taking, Native American Studies, is mainly a lecture class, but in a more grouped discussion way, which was amazing. The work was a drastic change from high school. One was always use to writing one or two page papers, but usually it was a big assignment and there would be plenty of time to complete it. Not now! Our one or two page papers would be due the next day or two at certain time that was relieving. Oh, my professor. She is an amazing woman! She teaches in a way that I understand and comprehend being that she uses all ways of learning; visual, kinesthetic, or audio. Although, I will add, she is a wonderful professor, please do not attend her class tired. I’m not saying that because u will get punished, but because you will fall asleep during class, then u would have wasted you time, no one likes to waste their time! Her voice is so soft, soulful, and beautiful. Anyone would be able to fall asleep to it hmmm. Still, do not let that change your mind if you want to take the class!
College life is fun, do not get me wrong. It’s just the transition of the first week. The first thing I had taken care of was my organization, which was much needed. Then there was the, gathering strength to write so much in one week due time. That was hard especially being that I am not a good or strong writer. On top of the main class that I take, there is College 101 which is equally as important, and useful! That class gets down into the steps one has to take to make sure the college needs and requirements are taken care of for our own benefits. Overall as the days go by, I learn more in classes. Also it seems as if things become somewhat easier, not in the way of easier work, but in the way of, you would know what is expected and can be prepared for what’s to come.
Having study groups was a brilliant idea! I thank God for that extra time scheduled in. Study groups are fun and yet useful. For example; at the end of the first week I had a scheduled trip to visit Spelman College. I was to leave Friday and return late Sunday. Unfortunately, I returned during the evening of Monday. I felt horrible. Stressed, tired, irritated, all in one. What was even worse is that as soon as I returned to Omaha I changed my clothes and went to work, working a late shift. Therefore I had tons or reading to do and two papers that had to be typed up. Being that I was already tired, I did not last much during the night. The next day as I panicked and worried myself, we had our study group. During the session, I basically caught up on everything, plus those days due reading assignment. I was so happy, still am! Even though I seemed like I mentioned the bad experiences, it’s just a warning so that you wouldn’t overload and forget about it once you know about the good. Take my word; there is plenty of good that comes with the life of a college student! I just needed to remember to plan and manage my time, especially working too.
In this college life experience it may not seem so at first, but I soon see that it is possible to go to school, work, complete homework, study, and have fun all together/. The key is just to manage the time that is available, and not to overload the mind body or spirit. Actually sleep, it will definitely pay off!
College life is fun, do not get me wrong. It’s just the transition of the first week. The first thing I had taken care of was my organization, which was much needed. Then there was the, gathering strength to write so much in one week due time. That was hard especially being that I am not a good or strong writer. On top of the main class that I take, there is College 101 which is equally as important, and useful! That class gets down into the steps one has to take to make sure the college needs and requirements are taken care of for our own benefits. Overall as the days go by, I learn more in classes. Also it seems as if things become somewhat easier, not in the way of easier work, but in the way of, you would know what is expected and can be prepared for what’s to come.
Having study groups was a brilliant idea! I thank God for that extra time scheduled in. Study groups are fun and yet useful. For example; at the end of the first week I had a scheduled trip to visit Spelman College. I was to leave Friday and return late Sunday. Unfortunately, I returned during the evening of Monday. I felt horrible. Stressed, tired, irritated, all in one. What was even worse is that as soon as I returned to Omaha I changed my clothes and went to work, working a late shift. Therefore I had tons or reading to do and two papers that had to be typed up. Being that I was already tired, I did not last much during the night. The next day as I panicked and worried myself, we had our study group. During the session, I basically caught up on everything, plus those days due reading assignment. I was so happy, still am! Even though I seemed like I mentioned the bad experiences, it’s just a warning so that you wouldn’t overload and forget about it once you know about the good. Take my word; there is plenty of good that comes with the life of a college student! I just needed to remember to plan and manage my time, especially working too.
In this college life experience it may not seem so at first, but I soon see that it is possible to go to school, work, complete homework, study, and have fun all together/. The key is just to manage the time that is available, and not to overload the mind body or spirit. Actually sleep, it will definitely pay off!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Residential Life with Summer Scholars
The week of June fourth through June ninth was a time period when I experienced a chance of a lifetime. Luckily I was one of the selected few chosen to participate in the UNO two thousand ten Summer Scholars Program. I had gotten to experience dorm life on an actual college campus. I had even had the chance to have college meals, and at times, eat with college students. It had been an amazing unforgettable past week. I am glad to now have a feel of dorm life. I also enjoyed having the task of making new friends, working hard, and having fun all in one. The UNO Summer Scholars Program is an unforgettable program and here is why:
Living in Scotts Hall for a week was amazing! Even arriving, and in my case late, was a good feeling. Dorm life never actually hit me until I handed over a set of keys. I had my bags excited to open the door and see what was inside. To be honest I had imagined there being a there being a small room with two twin beds and split sides. I was wrong. There was a living space, then our own separate rooms, like a mini apartment. I was so excited to get my bed made and get in the shower after the long day at Carol Joy Holling Center and I almost forgot the keys on my bed! I had to test the door lock to make sure I did not end up accidentally locking myself out of my room if I was to run to the bathroom or something. Luckily I had not. I trusted my roommates enough to not have to lock my door or even shut it at times. My roommates and I got along great. We took turns with the shower and sinks and most of the time, were ready at the same time.
The lounge was a cool spot. Every time the scholars and I would watch a movie I would not want to do any homework or anything I had responsibilities to attend to. The lounge was relaxing at times, then rowdy during other times. It was so fun. Everyone overall becomes friends in a way, that makes they time there easier and more fun because conversations can start with anyone between anyone. It’s a challenge still, entering an environment where u does not really know anyone. I had went in that was, but I left having more friends than I had ever expected since the first time I seen the scholars and the orientation meeting. All of the scholars were cool and we learned to respect and enjoy each other.
Another exciting part of the dorm life was the sand volleyball court! That was my favorite activity there. The best games played were on the last night of the stay at Scotts Hall. We pulled an all nighter! Well I actually pulled a twelve thirty- er. Anyways, our team consisted of all girls and we dominated completely! We lost our first and last games, but in the first game we were not prepared and the last game we were worn out and tired! It was all good; we were satisfied with the way we played as a team, and the way we interacted as UNO Summer Scholars of 2010!
Living in Scotts Hall for a week was amazing! Even arriving, and in my case late, was a good feeling. Dorm life never actually hit me until I handed over a set of keys. I had my bags excited to open the door and see what was inside. To be honest I had imagined there being a there being a small room with two twin beds and split sides. I was wrong. There was a living space, then our own separate rooms, like a mini apartment. I was so excited to get my bed made and get in the shower after the long day at Carol Joy Holling Center and I almost forgot the keys on my bed! I had to test the door lock to make sure I did not end up accidentally locking myself out of my room if I was to run to the bathroom or something. Luckily I had not. I trusted my roommates enough to not have to lock my door or even shut it at times. My roommates and I got along great. We took turns with the shower and sinks and most of the time, were ready at the same time.
The lounge was a cool spot. Every time the scholars and I would watch a movie I would not want to do any homework or anything I had responsibilities to attend to. The lounge was relaxing at times, then rowdy during other times. It was so fun. Everyone overall becomes friends in a way, that makes they time there easier and more fun because conversations can start with anyone between anyone. It’s a challenge still, entering an environment where u does not really know anyone. I had went in that was, but I left having more friends than I had ever expected since the first time I seen the scholars and the orientation meeting. All of the scholars were cool and we learned to respect and enjoy each other.
Another exciting part of the dorm life was the sand volleyball court! That was my favorite activity there. The best games played were on the last night of the stay at Scotts Hall. We pulled an all nighter! Well I actually pulled a twelve thirty- er. Anyways, our team consisted of all girls and we dominated completely! We lost our first and last games, but in the first game we were not prepared and the last game we were worn out and tired! It was all good; we were satisfied with the way we played as a team, and the way we interacted as UNO Summer Scholars of 2010!
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