June 2, 2011

The end of my semester ran right into an OSU study abroad trip. Upon my return this week, I wanted to compose one final blog in order to share the wonderful experiences I had during the three weeks I spent in Italy. I was very fortunate to attend the Landscape Painting course in Tuscany, Italy, through the OSU college of Arts and Sciences. Prior to this study abroad trip, I could only imagine what experiences lay ahead, but what I learned proved to be far more exciting and enlightening than I ever expected!

The majority of trip was spent at a spectacularly beautiful agricultural estate known as Tenuta di Spannocchia. This ancient historical villa rests upon 1200 acres of glorious Tuscan land – perfect for painting landscapes : ). What sets Spannocchia apart from other estates is its dedication to sustainable efforts. Basically everything from how they heat their water, to the use and maintenance of the livestock and food growing there is done in a sustainable way. The time spent here really was special to all the students, each harboring a different meaning to us all. Possibly since finals had just ended, I believe the peace and serenity present at Spannocchia was even more apparent. Although we painted most of the day each day, it never felt like work, but more a therapeutic way of releasing stress!! Although, not normally a painter, I did learn and grow immensely from the beginning to the end of the program. I welcomed the challenges that I was presented with and really had a great time. Marty Avrett, retired Art professor at OSU, taught the course, as well as countless other life lessons and important things needed to know while in Italy. He and his wife Martha really treated us with kindness and by the end of the trip we had all grown to become a big family! In addition to painting, in any free time we had during a weekday, many of us would explore the estate. This could include several-mile long hikes to abandoned monasteries, castles, or natural springs! We ate so much each afternoon and evening, we had to find some form of exercise, haha. That brings me to the meals, wow! Each evening was a truly wonderful extensive meal, always served with the wine made at Spannocchia. Conversation over dinner about the day’s painting and adventures was always enjoyed. As if spending time at this wonderous place wasn’t enough, we had the weekends free for traveling.

My travels throughout the trip consisted of 2 days in Florence, a day in Pisa, a day in Lucca, and a day in Colle Val D’Elsa! Siena was the nearest major city to Spannocchia, so although we did spend a day there, that was also the stop for most bus/ train connections during the trip. Each city of course possessed its own brilliance and beauty! I was so fortunate to travel and see so many magnificent places, especially historical paintings and sculptures. Regardless of where we traveled, we were always happy to return “home” to Spannocchia! It was very nice to have a “home-base” during the 3 weeks.

On the last Thursday of the trip, OSU held our art show for all those at Spannocchia and neighbors. It was more of a celebration of our journey through the program, but it really was remarkable to see how much artwork was created in such a short time. The Lemonia, our studio, had tables and walls covered with paintings and illustrations.

I can’t reiterate enough what an amazing experience I had during this program and how fortunate I feel to have had the opportunity to attend. Although I anticipated I would learn about culture and traveling, what I gained even more were the benefits of being challenged within a task, being an integral part of a group, and developing further a character and perspective of life. I hope everyone has the chance for a similar experience!

Here are just a few pictures from the trip!

Another year at Oklahoma State comes has come to a close. The swift passing of time continues to amaze me, but I’ve still got some time ahead of me at this great university. I can hardly wait to continue my journey, which at OSU is full of opportunity and good times! Composing this blog has helped me further realize and express my passion for serving others, a passion which will only continue to grow. Thank you to all who have followed along with my experiences at OSU this year.
As always, Go Pokes!!

April 27, 2011

Pre-finals week, or better known as “dead week,” had finally arrived. It was surreal to me that this was the last week classes would convene before the conclusion of the semester and the beginning of summer. Despite a couple of deadlines and a meeting or two, the week wasn’t nearly as busy as my normal schedule during this time of the semester, which was very refreshing!

Wednesday, my final major project was due in Typography. Although all design classes I’ve been enrolled in are extremely time consuming, usually a physical final isn’t taken, a final project is due instead. Later that night I had an officer transition meeting for the OSU Student Foundation. There will be Co-Stewardship Chairs next year for Stufu, and I couldn’t be happier for the two individuals selected. They will undoubtedly reach great heights regarding values those involving donor interaction; values that are also very important to my own. I’m excited just to serve another year in this great organization!

CKI execs met the next evening to discuss plans for the beginning of next year and possibly attending some summer district events. Since it was our last meeting, we met at Hideaway Pizza and members also joined for a fun, and social final get together. It has been yet another awesome year in this truly altruistic organization. Becoming a member of Key Club at a young age really developed my passion for service and my leadership skills. I will always be thankful to the Kiwanis family for everything they do for the youth of the world, and will continue to help them give back through this organization.

The weekend was spent studying for finals and running errands in attempt to prepare for my upcoming journey to Italy! Although my finals fall on Monday and Tuesday, I’m sure that between working, an online assignment deadline, and packing for a 3 week trip it will be a busy week. No complaints here though

April 25, 2011

As I embarked on the challenges of the upcoming week, I knew a tough few days were in store. Due to the happenstance of events, tests, and projects, this week appeared to be more difficult than the upcoming pre-finals or finals week. My anticipation to finish it strong was therefore evermore strong, since the Easter holiday and a visit to see family lay in the near future.

Monday began with the second of three critiques for our final project in Typography. I can’t say enough how much I truly feel I’m gaining from this course. I’m confident that the skills and knowledge learned in this course will aid me in my future career.

The last meeting in both Arts & Sciences Student Council and the OSU Student Foundation were held Tuesday evening. Officer elections were conducted in A & S StuCo. It has been a great first year in this organization, I’ve learned a lot about other organizations in the college, and about the college itself. The final meeting of the semester in StuFu traditionally includes all the new members that were recently interviewed and selected. Seeing bright new faces never ceases to put a smile on my face!

Wednesday, I was luckily able to take the afternoon off of work in order to hopefully adequately prepare for Thursday. A lot of work was put into a group project, but hopefully it will be worth it in the end!

One of my truly most favorite events – The Women for OSU Symposium, was held the next morning. Lisa Ling, the famous journalist (among other titles), spoke strongly about her experiences covering heart-wrenching stories that the rest of the world is painfully unaware of. Wow! I am quite sure every person in the room was impacted by her first-hand experiences. The entire afternoon, filled with statements from powerful women, was absolutely inspirational. As always, I was extremely honored to attend this event!! Here are a couple pics from the event.

A few, out of many, inspirational quotes stood out to me that day. “It’s not about what students are when they come to OSU, but what they are when they leave,” stated president Burns Hargis. Governor Mary Fallin said the following inspirational message, “Make a living by what you get, make a life by what you give.”

Directly following the symposium, I made my way to the business building for my third marketing test of the semester. This exam was especially important because if my score is sufficient, I will not be required to take the final! Immediately following the test, I had a group project in intro to entrepreneurship to present. Although our group had spent long hours to put together this business model, because it serves as a large portion of our final grade, I was nervous. It seemed to go great though, and I went to sleep early that evening!! : )

I didn’t have to work Friday due to the holiday, so I was on my way to Weatherford early in the afternoon! Seeing family and my dog never ceases to make me happy and realize that I must be the luckiest girl in the world! What a great weekend!!

Happy Easter!
Go Pokes!!

April 18, 2011

Although another round of classes and homework commenced this week, I knew an exciting weekend was just on the horizon! With Italy now in my immediate future, it’s a little bit hard to stay motivated, but with the semester swiftly coming to a close I know the work will cease in just a short time : )

Monday, I worked on painting a few more wine glasses in order to prepare for Saturday’s event. The planning that has gone into this event is really outstanding, and has been executed so well. Each person attending will have a personal, decorated wine glass to keep as a souvenir! I’ve gained a lot from being involved in the process and am more than happy to help out.

The donor video for Cowboy Spirit is really getting underway now! I can’t wait until we can distribute the final product to all the generous donors who helped to make this year’s Cowboy Spirit event a success.

A finalization meeting was held on Wednesday for those attending the study abroad trip to Italy. Well, if I was excited before, I most definitely am now, as all the thrilling details of the trip are becoming a reality. My three weeks there will undoubtedly be a truly life changing adventure; I’m ready! Is it May 7th yet?! : )

Thursday evening, the annual Arts and Sciences Banquet was held at the Wes Watkins center. As a member of the Banquet Committee for A&S Stuco, we arrived a little early to help greet and work the entrance table. The banquet was delightful. The truly amazing accomplishments that students undertake and achieve every day are remarkable. It makes me proud to attend OSU, to know such groundbreaking work is done by so many here. I was very fortunate to receive a Lew Wentz Leadership Scholarship this year. Also, Rex Linn, famous actor and this year’s distinguished alum spoke and received his award! Here’s a picture from the banquet.

When the weekend arrived, I was looking forward to heading to Tulsa. The long anticipated wine and cheese event was put together for those who purchased attendance by supporting their local church. Lots of preparation was put into the event, from the invitations (personalized wine bottles), I mentioned the glasses, and a deliciously extensive menu for the evening. Who better to plan such an event than Susan Anderson, the Director of Special Events for the OSU Foundation, and Joann Emmons! Overall, the greatest aspect of the weekend, although there were many, was the incredible people I met at the event. Jerry and Joann Emmons, the hosts, as well as all that attended, were exceptionally kind and welcoming to me! Between the event itself and then reconnecting the next day at church, it made for a truly special weekend that I was honored to be a part of! Here are a couple pictures from the event!

Homework put a slight damper on the fun of the weekend, haha, but you have to do what have to do! No complaints here, the weekend couldn’t have been any better!

GO POKES!

April 14, 2011

It’s hard to believe that there is only a month remaining in the school year. The fact that at the end of these 4 weeks I will be on my way to Europe to spend 3 wonderful weeks in Italy is quite enthralling. Although these few weeks will surely be a test of my endurance, the trip definitely serves as the light at the end of the tunnel!

The week jumped to a start with a major deadline in Typography for our third project. It’s hard to believe we’re embarking on our fourth and final project in this course. I have truly learned many valuable design skills throughout this course. That evening I met other students at the Wesley Foundation to prepare the sandwiches for the “PB&J” project. I’ve enjoyed getting acquainted with new people while also participating in service!

Tuesday, I sold tickets for the College of Arts and Sciences annual Award banquet as a member of the A&S Student Council. Also, serving on the banquet committee, I’ve been able to witness some of the processes involved in planning a campus banquet. Latter that evening, the A&S StuCo met to discuss upcoming events and general info. Also, OSU Student Foundation convened that evening to conduct our general business. When we broke up into committees, the Stewardship Committee continued to work on the donor video, which centers around Cowboy Spirit. This video will be distributed to all the generous donors and supporters of the event.

The Photography Club was exhibited at an art gallery opening at the OSU Foundation. StuFu members helped “meet & greet” at the event! It was a very successful evening, with lots of student guests and guests from the community. The remainder of the evening was spent studying and working on homework due to my absence during the coming weekend. Here’s a couple pictures from the evening.

Friday I had a Logic and Critical Thinking exam before work. After work, I was off to Tulsa for what promised to be one of the best weekends in a long time. That night started off with a concert at the BOK Center featuring The Band of Horses and Kings of Leon. Both being two of my favorites, it was an amazing night! The rest of the weekend was planned so that I could stay at my friend’s in Tulsa and attend the appearance of another one of my favorite bands on Sunday. Unfortunately, Sunday I awoke with a bad migraine and this prohibited me from attending. It’s one thing to have a migraine, but when they prevent me from doing exciting things, it’s a bit more frustrating. As I’ve mentioned though, when these episodes occur, it really is a test of my perseverance and character. I have to realize that I have to deal with what I’m given and take comfort in knowing how blessed I am; it could always be worse. I do plan on seeking different types of help this summer since my headaches have been worse in the past few months. Here’s a couple pictures from the Kings of Leon concert.

When coming to the end of another year, it’s easy to reflect on all the positive experiences that comprise that year. I never cease to admit how truly fortunate I am to be attending this prestigious university and how stimulating my experience has been at OSU thus far!

GO POKES!

April 5, 2011

CKI’s annual service week commenced, which meant participating in awesome service projects throughout the entire week!! We also celebrate “Kiwanis 1 Week” with CKI, the opportunities to serve others through this organization are always abundant!

Monday evening, we met at the Wesley Foundation to help out with the PB&J Project. It was so awesome to hear about the details of this program and how much support a small amount of funding can provide. This program raises money for the Kenya Kids Can initiative. We make these peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on Monday, then on Tuesday on campus, we give them to students in exchange for any lunch money they can donate toward the fund. The program at OSU is only the second of its kind, and has done very well since its genesis. Here’s a picture from Monday night.

Wednesday I had a final critique in typography, so Monday and Tuesday evening were spent preparing. It is a time intensive class, but I thoroughly enjoy it!

In continuation of Service Week, a few CKI members and myself went to head start daycare and read to several classes on Thursday morning. The kids never cease to put a smile on my face! We’re fortunate to have a very supportive Kiwanis that donates books to the daycare. We place Kiwanis stickers on the books prior to passing them out and after reading to the kids, we pass out the books to them. It’s so refreshing and sweet to see how truly excited they become just to receive a book of their own to take home. Here’s a picture of Allison Prisco, OSU CKI president, reading to a daycare class.

Friday, OSU Student Foundation Applications were due. I’m extremely excited to be continuing in yet another year in this great organization. The one of a kind opportunities I’ve been afforded through this group have honestly played a major role in shaping my college experience. The experience that has made my time so far at OSU amazing! Later that evening, the officer induction was conducted. The Lieutenant Governor came to retire and install the officers; I’m very excited for another year as secretary of this wonderful philanthropic organization. Here are a couple pictures from the evening!

The remainder of the weekend was spent catching up on homework and preparing for a major typography deadline. Between service and studies and social life, I couldn’t ask for a better combination here at Oklahoma State! I really am living a dream!

GO POKES!

March 28, 2011

It’s hard to believe that 5 weeks of school and a couple finals stand between me and 3 weeks in Italy!! The extreme excitement is growing with each day! A lot of significant events and opportunities for involvement in great organizations will surely only make the time pass by with ease. Oklahoma State is such a great place to call home!

The OSU Student Foundation general meeting Tuesday evening included the opportunity to sign up for some exciting new events as well as the planning of final details for the Thank-a-thon that would be held later in the week. Also, a donor video for the sponsors of Cowboy Spirit is being put together by the Stewardship Committee to express STUFU’s extreme gratitude for all the support. Technical details are being worked out at the moment, but I’m so happy to be a part of a project that is geared so definitively on donor appreciation. The remainder of the evening, I was pleased to be able to spend with great friends for my 21st birthday! Here’s a picture from the evening!

Wednesday morning I had a “class critique” in my typography class. The process that entails the progression of each project is thorough and allows for ample changes and experiment prior to the final submission. There is first a group critique, which usually involves a large number of ideas, and is a somewhat informal discussion among classmates about the work and research. Then a class critique, which is more of a formal critique, includes half of the class and the professor. The final critique is done in the same way as the class critique, but usually involves fewer examples, as they are being narrowed down to the final submission. Overall the process from beginning to end is never lacking in the acquisition of new knowledge.

A paper deadline, classes and a CKI meeting made for a fast paced day. The meeting that evening was buzzing with plans for the upcoming CKI Service Week. A whole week dedicated to service?! OK! : ) I continue to grow and love this organization due to its strong values of giving and serving others. “Live to serve, love to serve!”

Friday after work, students came together at the OSU Foundation to call donors and thank them for their commitment to OSU, and hopefully sincerely leave the message of how much their support truly impacts students’ lives every day. Again, this event is one of my very favorites! I’m given a chance to talk to numerous donors and personally express my feelings of gratitude. It’s always humorous to see how many donors are shocked at the purpose of the call, that all we’re doing is calling to say “thank you.”

The weekend unfortunately involved a couple of bad headaches, but my homework still had to be completed! Luckily, I had a chance to rest up and prepare for an awesome week of service that lies ahead!

GO POKES!

March 22, 2011

The week of March 7th began with spring break in sight, which made a long week significantly less stressful! A major typography assignment “Type as a Signifier” was due on Monday. I have thoroughly enjoyed this class so far. The research that is required of each design project makes one more invested and knowledgeable about each given project.

A test in one of my online courses started off the day, Tuesday. This was followed by a group presentation in Entrepreneurship over opportunity recognition. This is another course I have enjoyed and which I continue to obtain valuable lessons. Arts & Sciences Student Council convened shortly after my classes that evening. We briefly met in our committees after the general announcements. I’m looking forward to assisting in the planning of the Arts & Sciences banquet in April. An OSU Student Foundation general meeting commenced later that evening! Once we were broken up into our committees, Heather Briggs, the Gift Planning Program Coordinator met with the Stewardship committee to discuss the upcoming Thank-a-thon. As I’ve mentioned the Thank-a-thon is truly one of my favorite events. Being given the opportunity to contact donors just to say “thank you” is awesome!! It’s exciting to be planning our second one this year!

Thursday, I continued to cram for a marketing test that afternoon. As much as I try to avoid it, sometimes when life is crazy, it’s hard to prevent not studying until the night before an exam. Luckily the material is pretty conceptual and I think the test went well.

Although I worked all day Friday, it was “officially” spring break!! I didn’t go on any exciting adventures, but I’m very thankful that I had the opportunity to work full time the entire week to help save up funds for my study abroad trip in May! The break was not without excitement though. My mother came to Stillwater on Sunday evening to spend a couple days with me! On Tuesday, my grandparents, aunt AND my puppy came to Stillwater for dinner. It was so wonderful to be with my family, and my pup : ) Friday of spring break I did get a chance to return home to Weatherford for the weekend. Even though I had a little homework to catch up on, it’s always relaxing to be at home. Not to mention, with my birthday coming up, my grandma spoiled me even more by cooking an “extra-special” meal of all my favorites!! What a great week! Here’s a couple picture from spring break.

March 8, 2011

Two major scholarship deadlines started last week off with a jolt. They happened to be the last two applications of those I apply for annually though, phew! : ) No one who has gone through the scholarship application process will kid you that it is simple, but I am so very grateful that there are scholarships to fill out – that funding is available to assist students like myself in pursuing a college education. I can’t reiterate enough that the reason giving back has become so truly important to me is because I am affected by it first hand every day. I wouldn’t be attending this great university without the significant financial aid I have been afforded.

Tuesday, Merchandise and Apparel Design Association convened to listen to a guest speaker. This organization is awesome! The speakers that are brought in never cease to amaze me!! Amy Wopsle, the manager/event coordinator of “Posh” in Marlow, OK, spoke about the ‘ins and outs’ of owning a small business. Since my minor is entrepreneurship, it was awesome to hear many of the principles and ideas I’m currently studying applied in her real-life situation. She also discussed a book titled, “Raving Fans. A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service.” From the sound of her description it sounds like a must for anyone interested in customer-related fields. Amy discussed both a successful small business concept and details about “Posh” in general. It was easy to see that customer service is very important to them and their customers get a lot out of the shopping experience while visiting the store. Also, exciting news, a branch of this customer-friendly, trendy shop, “Posh,” will be coming to Stillwater around the summer months!

The remaining portion of the week was unfortunately less eventful. A migraine hit hard, which made it difficult to do much until relief was found. Although I can control these episodes for the most part, sometimes “it happens.” Though, a few positives do surface from a not-so-positive situation such as this. It is truly refreshing to be reminded of the kindness and comfort provided by friends and family in times of need! Not to mention, the test of endurance never fails to make me stronger! And it might traditionally be a Christmas song, but I can honestly fall asleep every night counting my many blessings!

Sometimes life throws us lemons….but who doesn’t love lemonade, right? I recently moved into a much better living situation and it has been exciting working to get everything situated! Here is a pic of one of the areas where I spend the most time, my desk.

GO POKES!

February 21, 2011

The week commenced with another scholarship deadline. It seems like yesterday that I was anticipating the overwhelming amount of scholarship essays and applications I would need to complete. As time progresses, however, they are diminishing one by one!

Wednesday evening, a group of strangers met in 104 BC to discuss plans for a trip to Italia. It is an exciting visualization for me to imagine this same group of people will undoubtedly become a close group of friends among travels, and learning in a foreign country. “I cannot wait to oil paint in Tuscany, Italy, this May!!!!” The realization of this trip commencing on May 7th is serving as somewhat of a ‘light at the end of the tunnel.’ I am confident it will be a life changing adventure that will remain in my heart forever! ..and I haven’t even gone yet! : ) haha.

The formal board of officer elections for Circle K International were held on Thursday. I’m looking forward to another year as secretary! Mainly, what is so incredible about this organization is the service that we accomplish every year and all the people that make it possible! We already have new projects in the works and upcoming ones scheduled. Also, District Convention is just around the corner!

Friday finally arrived! Cowboy Spirit 2011 was here!! : ) I am so extremely happy with how everything turned out!! None of it would have been possible without the hard work of Abby Fox and the OSU Student Foundation and of course the loyal donors! With an attendance of over 700 at the Payne County Expo Center, I think it was a great time for everyone in attendance. The performing bands were outstanding! Thank you to Another Round, Chance Anderson Band, Exit 174, and Adley Stump for competing in battle of the bands! And congratulations to the Chance Anderson Band for winning the battle. Even more fans arrived to watch Stoney LaRue perform at the end of the event! I’m exciting to hear how much was raised for student scholarships this year!! Thank you again to everyone who supported this initiative! Here are some pictures from the event!

Kayla Davis, a StuFu member Expressing her thanks for everyone’s Support of Cowboy Spirit!	Kourtney Childers and Rebekah Spaulding, StuFu execs working The front table.
Winners of the contest, the Chance Anderson Band!

Saturday, I accompanied a friend to the Oklahoma City with a couple other girls for her wedding dress fitting. It was my first of these to partake in and it was quite fun! My friend looked absolutely beautiful and very I’m happy for her! Also, our mom’s are best friends, so they were in attendance, haha. It was great to have lunch and spend the afternoon with my mom too!