August 30, 2010

            Typical first week of school: getting acquainted with one's new schedule, class locations etc., possibly a few assignments, but for the most part, easing into the start of a fresh semester. 
-- Haha. Not quite what comprised this past week. No complaints here though, I was ready to hit the ground running, which is good because my mortar filled up before I had a chance to blink. Between meetings, schedule adjustments, supply errands, and jumping into design projects, my life quickly got back to normal - busy and exciting. Every day as an OSU Cowboy is a good day!

            The first OSU Student Foundation(StuFu) meeting of the semester was Tuesday. I always look forward to a new year in this organization because it means that new members, both freshman and upper class-men will join. I remember my first year in StuFu fondly and the great impact that it has made on my character and my continued involvement in philanthropy. Due to this, it makes me excited for new members and the benefits and enjoyment they’re sure to gain from this awesome organization!

            Thursday came the first CKI meeting of the semester. CKI’s motto is “Live to Serve. Love to Serve,” and that’s definitely what we do! We’ve already gotten full swing into outlining our annual service projects as well as implementing new ones. For instance we’re planning on joining Kiwanis International (the adult branch of CKI) in the Eliminate Project. This will protect the lives of babies and their mothers by eliminating maternal/neonatal tetanus (MNT), a disease that kills an estimated 60,000 newborns and 30,000 mothers each year. The Eliminate Project will deliver life-saving vaccines to the most vulnerable women and children in the world: those in remote and difficult to reach areas; conflict zones; and with little access to healthcare. We have an exciting, service-filled year ahead!

            When Friday finally arrived, I was a little relieved to have completed the first week, although anticipation for the remainder of the year and of course football season is sky high! That evening I attended the “Design Cookout” for AIGA. It was great to see familiar faces, but even more, mingling about design classes, after actually experiencing them for a week was great. I know that AIGA will be a wonderful resource, even more than it has been, as I progress and hopefully enter the graphic design program at OSU. Here’s a pic from the event.

            My alarm sounded very early Saturday morning as I awoke for the OSU Student Foundation member retreat. It was an action-packed afternoon: John Talley and friendly OSU FCA volunteers welcomed us to his ranch as we participated in team building exercises and ice breakers. We returned to the Foundation for lunch, a few informative workshops, crafts, committee goals and much more! The day was definitely a success and I had a blast getting to know the great people I will be working with this year Here are a couple pics from the activities at the ranch!

 

            The majority of the weekend, other than the retreat was spent trying to stay on top of the projects and homework that lie ahead this week. I know this will be a challenging semester, but also one of the best.

Go Pokes!