November 15, 2010

Arts and Science had arrived! Since I’m a new member to the council I was anxious to get involved and joined to the A&S Week committee. Small tasks were completed prior to this week, but the Chairs really did a lot to pull everything together! I was looking forward to the related events that would take place throughout the week as well as service and academic opportunities!

Monday I gave away free sunglasses and hot chocolate for class in honor of Arts and Science Week! It’s always fun to promote an organization you’re a part of and give away free stuff! : )

The A&S Luncheon for department heads, professors, and students alike was held on Tuesday in the elegant Murray parlor. Great conversation and food was present as student and professors discussed a variety of subjects. Later that evening, there was the biweekly A&S Student Council meeting where we discussed the progress of the week, approved and organization to recognized status and got pumped up for the remainder of the week supporting our college!

When Thursday evening had finally come, I attended a NSCS meeting. We discussed upcoming events and possible dates for a social. Also, we went over details for “Into the Streets” that we would be participating in on Saturday. After the meeting I was honored to attend the induction banquet of the Phi Kappa Phi honorary society. It was an evening filled with wonderful people, music and dinner. Lee Bird, president of the society’s chapter, spoke, as well as Provost Sternberg. It was a delightful evening, and I’m truly honored to be a part of this prestigious organization. The break from homework was nice too, haha.

As the rain poured on the campus Friday, I completed my service hour at the Murphy House for the OSU Student Foundation. I attempted to work on homework as I eagerly anticipated my journey home the next day after a service project.

“Into the Streets” is a great way for numerous organizations and individuals on campus, whether a part of big or small groups, to get involved in the Stillwater community! By signing up prior to the event, the morning of the event, your group gets a specified project sheet and supplies. The instructions include the address of the person’s home your group will be performing the needed service for and details on what is to be done. Saturday morning, I met up with other members of NSCS as we went to an elderly woman’s house to rake the leaves in her lawn and clean her windows. With all of us working hard, the time went by fast. Service is always a blast, but getting to know new people at the same time is even better! Here are a couple pics from the event!

Before I knew it, I was on the road. It seemed like an eternity since I had seen my beloved puppy, and of course my family! : ) As always, my grandma had a home-cooked meal waiting for me when I arrived. Unfortunately I had to spend the afternoon knocking out some homework, but when the Cowboys kicked off in Austin, my family and I reconvened to enjoy cheering on the team. I also helped my grandma bake a batch of cookies, something I rarely get to do anymore. Between family time, the Cowboy victory, and service, I couldn’t have asked for a better weekend! <3

GO POKES!!

November 8, 2010

November already? Where did the semester go? Time flies when you’re busy having fun at Oklahoma State University! Between service, academics, attempting to have a social life and a little sleep somewhere in there, each week seems to rush by faster than the last. When there are so many exciting things to look forward to in the future though, it’s easy to enjoy each moment and accept the swift passing of time.

The week idled over Monday and Tuesday due to two major project deadlines, and a History of Graphic Design exam all within that period.

When Wednesday finally arrived, I was happy to finish out the week with a normal workload.

Thursday, CKI met to discuss upcoming events and speakers. The rest of the semester is filled with numerous exciting volunteer opportunities! Some of these activities will include making blankets, volunteering with Payne County Youth Service, spreading awareness for our service partners, and ringing bells for the Salvation Army! It’s never too late to join CKI, if you know anyone who loves service; this is the place for them! :  )

Saturday morning I joined other StuFu members and hundreds of OSU fans at Wes Watkins center for the annual President’s Club Event! Not only did I get to giveaway free stuff, one of my favorite things,(haha), but I also helped greet the attendees of the event.  I love interacting with the people who have generously supported OSU through giving because the “Cowboy spirit” that resides at an event like this is so awesome! There was a great turnout of StuFu volunteers as well, which makes the event even more exciting!  Here are some pictures!

Some of the StuFu members who attended the event!	Nathaniel Wells displaying the cell phone holders that were given to the attendees!

A bitter morning turned into a beautiful sunny day as the OSU football team took on Baylor for a 55-28 victory! Now, #1 in the Big 12 South, bring on the Longhorns!!

November 1, 2010

I can’t think of a given time when being sick is good for any college student. Due to tedious schedules, running the risk of falling behind is very stressful. Although, it can’t be helped sometimes, and luckily most professors will work with students to some extent. Unfortunately I was ill for most of homecoming weekend and the beginning of this past week, so getting caught up while simultaneously staying on track with current tasks took up the entirety of my week and weekend.

Tuesday I attending Arts and Sciences Student Council, and plans for A&S Week are really underway! The 8-12th of November will be here before I know it and I’m looking forward to the week full of themed activities!

Thursday night CKI met to discuss upcoming service projects and District web seminars that are available for us to participate in this week! Our club is having trouble meeting the member requirement by the deadline, so we held a board meeting directly after the meeting to discuss our plan of action. I’m quite sure that everything will work out OK! With all the philanthropy that CKI does, it would be terrible for us to lose our charter.

Friday I completed my office hour for the OSU Student Foundation by composing thank you notes to donors. Also, I finalized my spring enrollment schedule with my advisor. It’s hard to believe this semester will be coming to a close so quickly!

Although Halloween is an exciting holiday, and everywhere people could be found with festive costumes, it was a crucial time for me to catch up on major assignments. My mom did travel from Weatherford for the weekend, however, so that made it more fun! We both cheered on the OSU Cowboys as they beat Kansas State in Manhattan!

 Happy Halloween and Go Pokes!!

October 26, 2010

Well this week started out with a bang, as my reason for cramming over the previous weekend came to fruition. Tuesday held two deadlines in my illustration course, one being the midterm portfolio due date. Also, that evening was a history of graphic design exam, supposedly the hardest of the six, and an accounting assignment due by midnight. Luckily these events went pretty smoothly and I was happy to have Tuesday over with.

Wednesday was actually the scheduled day of my second accounting exam, but since the evening time conflicted with my graphic design lab, I was able to complete the alternate exam held on Friday.

After what seemed like an eternity, Friday afternoon arrived and I was pumped to head to OSU Foundation to help at the 1960 class reunion. Stillwater was already becoming overpopulated with a sea of orange as it grew closer to the time for the traditional “walkaround” viewing of Greek house decs. The reunion was a great time! I was honored to have the pleasure to meet so many alumni who traveled such a long distance just to visit their alma mater for this occasion. Hearing just a little bit about their lives and how their OSU education helped them get to where they are today was very inspirational! Here are a couple pictures from the event!

Alumni mingling at the reunion!	StuFu members helping at the event!

Homecoming game day in Stillwater, OK, is a sight to be seen if you’ve never witnessed the orange pride at this university! Rain or shine, our fans never fail to come out and support the Cowboys. Despite the loss, I feel that we overcame a lot of obstacles this weekend. With inclement weather, the Greek houses still put on an outstanding “walkaround” for all to see. Saturday was also a display of the loyalty the students and alumni have for Oklahoma State University. So regardless of the outcome, I’ll always be cheering, “GO POKES!”

Photos courtesy of Amy Harper

October 18, 2010

Sometimes, especially in college, decisions have to be made regarding what you desire to do versus what you feel you need to do. I’m specifically referring to the CKI Fall Retreat that I had intended on attending this past weekend. Due to my schedule of tests and deadlines in the beginning of the upcoming week, I felt it would have been impossible for me to adequately prepare and complete the necessary requirements if I was absent from early Friday morning until late Sunday night. The reason it posed such a difficult decision for me was because of my personal value of commitment. Big or small, I truly believe that if one has committed or given their word to something that shouldn’t be broken. Of course, my fellow CKI members understood, but I felt bad for backing out. Although, I’m happy that there were still a couple members attending on behalf of our chapter to experience the retreat and bring back valuable information and news about the International and District levels!

Arts and Sciences StuCo met on Tuesday evening. Two groups presented to the council requesting funds for various endeavors. We deliberated based on our budget and the given cause and took a vote. It was neat to be a part of that process. Also, we discussed the possibility of fundraisers so that we would be able to assist groups within our college more generously in the future.

Wednesday came quickly, as it was the deadline for our third graphic design project – “Texture Typography.” Stress was definitely built up before the end of this assignment so I was relieved to have it completed. Critique day is one of my favorite days in graphic design because you get to witness what everyone has been working so tirelessly on for the duration of the task. I’m glad to be challenged by very talented classmates.

Dressed in business attire, I arrived at the Murphy House on Thursday afternoon to obtain the materials for a Cowboy Spirit sponsorship meeting! Mallory Ross, StuFu development chair, and I went to IBC Bank to discuss the different opportunities available to them for assisting in this philanthropic campaign. She and I agreed that we are so grateful to StuFu for giving us “real life” experiences such as these sponsorship meetings, which are very beneficial to us. The meeting was successful and we know Cowboy Spirit will continue to grow! Mark your calendars now for Feb. 18th; Stoney LaRue is the headliner, he will be a judge for the battle of the bands, and once again, ALL proceeds go to student scholarships!

That evening, CKI had a special guest speaker. District 33 Representative Lee Denney came to discuss the 11 questions that will be on the upcoming general election ballot. It was an extremely informative meeting, and I’m very glad that I’m informed at least as to what each of the questions entail. She added humor to the program and was a delightful speaker! After the program we discussed upcoming projects. CKI is looking forward to getting involved with Payne County Youth Services soon, and Halloween always brings opportunities to work with children! Here’s a pic from the meeting.

As implied from the beginning of this post, I had an insurmountable amount of homework to accomplish this weekend so I’m glad it was fall break.  The extra day helped me out! Although, I couldn’t help but take a little time out on Saturday to watch our Cowboys play in Lubbock. With an undefeated ranking, they beat Texas Tech in Raider stadium for the first time since 1944!!

GO POKES!

October 11, 2010

Music, service, fellowship, and design; what more could I ask for in any given week?! Despite the homework that accompanied this list, I definitely experienced a thrilling week!

Tuesday evening, at the Merchandise and Apparel Design Association meeting, we participated in a very hands-on activity. We were all instructed prior to the meeting as to what supplies we would need for the t-shirt dresses we would be making! It was my first time to sew since it was an everyday occurrence as an apparel design major. It was so much fun! Although I don’t regret my major change, haha, it felt really good to sew again.  Everyone had their own t-shirt and different ribbons, etc. so all the dresses turned out great and were unique! Here’s a picture from the meeting.

Illustration came early Thursday morning, with the major deadline of our second project. We were instructed to pick from a list of controversial topics and create an illustration that depicted a particular view on that issue.  Later that evening, CKI met to discuss upcoming events, speakers, and projects! A few of the members, including myself are getting pumped up for fall retreat next weekend in Hunt, Texas.  Also, new volunteer opportunities are keeping the excitement high; October is going to be a great month for service. 

When Friday finally arrived, I could hardly contain my excitement! A concert which I had tickets for since the summer had arrived! The band Muse, opened by Passion Pit, played at the Ford Center and it was a truly incredible performance. I stress “performance” because despite their music, which I love, the graphics, video effects, and lights were definitely awe-inspiring. Another great aspect to the night was the people that I was able to share it with. I met up with friends from CKI that live out of state and sat with friends that I don’t normally spend a lot of time with – so it was an amazing night all around! Not to mention a victory for the Cowboys!! Here’s a couple pictures from the show.

The next morning, CKI met bright and early to sack food for elementary students that don’t get a sufficient amount of food over the weekend. We teamed up with Builder’s Club, created an assembly line and it was a fun and successful project! This was the first time for CKI to participate in this activity but since it occurs every month, we’re definitely thinking about making it a regular occurrence! Here’s a pic from the event.

Service truly has become a major aspect of my college career. The joy that it gives me to be surrounded by others that enjoy it just as much is what makes the organizations such as CKI and the OSU Student Foundation so wonderful. I am very grateful to have so many opportunities, at my age, to get involved in giving back. It has positively impacted my life and I know I have been instilled with a life-long desire to give back due to these experiences.

GO POKES!

October 4, 2010

The week leapt to a start with my second history of graphic design exam of the semester and mini project deadlines in both of my design classes. As the week continued the excitement definitely grew – with Stillwater hosting one of the most exhilarating football games I’ve witnessed thus far! Adding a dog show and an inspirational service event to the agenda, it seems each passing week at Oklahoma State is more thrilling than the last!

Arts and Science Student Council was Tuesday evening. This is really serving as a new experience for me and I love it! Arts and Science week is coming up, and I think it’ll be fun getting involved in that committee. I hope we can help to utilize that week to showcase what our college is all about!

Thursday, I went to the Murphy House to complete my biweekly office hour for OSU Student Foundation. This is a new requirement this year, and I feel it has worked out wonderfully so far. Abby Fox does a great job of organizing everything so students have a specific task to accomplish when they arrive, whether that be committee work, thank you notes, etc.

“How ’bout them Cowboys!” Well it was a nerve-racking game to say the least, but that’s what made it such a meaningful win in Boone Pickens Stadium! It never ceases to fill me with pride when nationally televised games such as this week’s depict so accurately the sea of orange that resembles the spirit that resides at this university!

Friday, SUAB hosted a dog show for all those who wanted to bring their furry companions for a night of entertainment, food, and fun! I worked a shift at the National Society of Collegiate Scholars booth, where we had a game of pin the tail on the dog set up. Between the fashion show, the talent show, and the games, I don’t know who had more fun, the owners or their pets! Here’s a pic from the event.

Saturday, CKI participated in the Cystic Fibrosis walk at Couch Park! It was so inspiring to see that a Builder’s Club member whom we’ve known is not only affected by CF, but at her age has traveled all over the U.S. speaking about the disease, spreading awareness and support! The foundation that’s out of Oklahoma City had set up a pipeline chart of the progress and research development since 2001, and it was truly remarkable. It was a very humbling experience. I previously didn’t know much about Cystic Fibrosis, but all the members of our chapter agree that this will become an annual event and we hope to start fundraising even earlier next year! With the help of awareness and funds, CF will soon stand for “Cure Found!” Here are a couple pictures from the event.

Shay and baby Ian	CKI and Builder’s Club!

GO POKES!

September 27, 2010

The beginning of the week may have started a bit monotonously with projects and homework, however, finishing with the renowned Chef Series event and service – it was another incredible week at Oklahoma State!

In my graphic design I course, our second project was due. The task was to select a piece of classical music and create a 10x15 poster for that composition that accurately conveyed to the audience the mood of the particular song. Critiques for our projects in this class are very involved but I benefit from them a great deal.

Thursday, as many CHES hotel and restaurant administration students tirelessly prepared for the annual Chef Series event, numerous people were anxiously awaiting the evening filled with delicious food and good friends. I am so truly grateful that I had the opportunity to attend this awesome event! Anne Greenwood, such a wonderful woman and prominent donor in the OSU community, whom I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, graciously offered me a spot at the event since she had a conflict and would no longer be able to attend. The lovely people at my table really made the evening a great experience, not to mention hearing a little about Trisha Yearwood and her life growing up. A quote from her cookbook that was presented as a gift to everyone states, “I have always associated really good food with really good company. If you’re with people you love, and you’re having fun and enjoying life, great food is almost like another guest at the table.” Another significant highlight of the event was the focus on the student efforts put into the evening, but also their careers in general. It makes me proud to attend a university that is home to such great programs that are fostering students who will undoubtedly become successful in their endeavors. I’m extremely thankful to Anne for her generosity in allowing me this delightful experience! Here’s a picture from the event.

Between the excitement of the event and deadlines in both my design classes, I didn’t get to prepare as much for my Friday accounting test as I had hoped. But if I’ve learned one thing in college it’s how to work under pressure and how to cram, haha. The test seemed to go well though, so I’m hopeful for a positive outcome.

Wrapping up the week, I participated in one of my favorite service projects, Adopt-A-Street! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, and the turnout was great. It’s always fun to take a walk on a sunny day, while catching up with friends – even if you are simultaneously wearing neon yellow vests and picking up trash J. Here’s a picture from the afternoon.

September 21, 2010

The week began with extreme anticipation for the upcoming weekend, but there were plenty of things to finalize before I was off to San Antonio. My first Arts and Science Student Council meeting and my first exam of the semester were both on Tuesday evening. The new members of the council were introduced at the meeting, and it was neat to see that I’d be working with a few familiar faces I know from other organizations. After the meeting, I took my first history of graphic design test.  The format was different from any other test I have completed, but I’m hopeful for a positive outcome.

Thursday morning I had to attend the critique for my first illustration project, but was headed to the airport directly after class. Normally, when I am away for a weekend for an activity, it can be stressful due to the homework I have to catch up on as a result, but not in this case. I had gotten as much work done as possible before I departed Thursday, but regardless, I had been anxious for this convention since the summer months. 

I was extremely honored and grateful to be asked to attend and speak at the annual national convention for the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI. I have been very fortunate to receive a scholarship from their Foundation since my freshman year in college. The impact that their scholarships and scholarships in general have made on my life is indescribable. I love life at OSU! Without significant financial assistance I would not be involved near the level I am currently, nor have the opportunity to attend such a prestigious university as Oklahoma State. As I mentioned, Mrs. Jean Hashman is the incredible benefactor of my scholarship from this organization for the last two years. She also attended the convention this weekend, which made it even more special! I have been fortunate to grow closer to her, and through our conversations her intelligence, hard work, and zest for life are very apparent to me. Mrs. Hashman is gifting humanity by giving the scholarship recipients the power to push to be all they can be; to make a difference in their own right. She, as well as all donors are truly an inspiration. My speech centered around the impact their scholarships have made on my life and how it has fueled my passion for philanthropic activities - in an effort to give back for all that I has received. My mom was also invited to attend the convention, which made the weekend extra special! Overall, the weekend was life-changing. By far one of the greatest aspects of the weekend was getting acquainted with so many wonderful people! Everyone was so genuine and kind; the members truly made the weekend memorable for my mom and I!

I would like to extend a special thanks to Susan Anderson, director of special events for the OSU Foundation and convention planner for the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, without whom none of this would have been possible. Due to her position at the Oklahoma State University Foundation and my involvement there, we came to find the unique connection we had to each other. I don’t know how she does everything! But nevertheless, no task is left incomplete and she manages everything with poise and kindness. Susan made this extraordinary weekend a reality for me! The events of the weekend are still replaying in my mind, and I know this will be a memory that remains in my heart and mind forever. Here are some pictures from the convention!

A beautiful day on the Riverwalk!	Mrs. Hashman!
Judge William Webster and me!

September 13, 2010

Whether physical or literal, it seems to encompass our lives at some point. Between Cowboy football, catching up on schoolwork, and headaches, I had my fair share of pressure this last week.

Tuesday I attended the beginning of the OSU Student Foundation meeting for group pictures. Recently I had to make a schedule change into a history of graphic design class, which unfortunately meets during the same time as StuFu on Tuesday evenings. Although, I will still be participating in just as many events throughout the semester!

Wednesday, as the rain poured, I made my way to Life Sciences to drop off an application for Arts and Sciences Student Council. Once I got out of my evening lab, however, a headache had started to set in. There are a few measures I take when I get headaches to keep them from developing into migraines. Unfortunately, this time the medicine wasn’t effective. Thursday night I went to the hospital, as the last measure to alleviate the pain. Then, Friday to wake up with same migraine was very disheartening. I went to University Health Services on Friday afternoon for the same treatment, and thankfully was doing much better Saturday morning.

Unfortunately, an effect of one of these episodes that is worse than the pain is the work and time that I get behind on. So definitely a bit stressed, I have been attempting to accomplish work and studying in two days for my upcoming tests and deadlines. Saturday, the Cowboys too felt pressure as they faced Troy in a close battle. Ultimately coming out on top, however, with a final score of 41-38! Go Pokes! Here’s a pic from the game.

Sunday I was looking forward to attending an interview for Arts and Sciences Student Council. Later that evening I was informed that I had been accepted into the council! I’m very excited about getting more involved in the college that is now my home. Since my official major change in fall of ’09, it has been a new challenge for me to get acclimated into a new college, and I think this will be a great steppingstone in that direction J.

GO POKES!