Quick Note

Hi!

It's after 11pm and I'm exhausted, but I just read Pam's Swaziland Peace Corps update so I felt compelled to at least give a quick one on mine!

Maybe I'll find time to write a substantial post later this weekend, but classes have started and the thing about grad school is there is a legitimate amount of reading. And by legitimate, I mean it's CONSTANT!

But what I want to say now before I go to bed, is that the idea was introduced in my theory class this week that as student affairs professionals, we are "environmental engineers."

Environmental engineers. That really struck me, because it's true. We collaborate to shape the overall experience of the student. We control their activities, their curriculum, their leadership, etc. We are the reasons why they grow. Without us, they can surely become educated; but they cannot lead, they cannot serve, they cannot achieve.

It gives me an easier idea of how to describe my career to my friends and family without higher education experience who have no idea what I'm doing. "Student affairs, what's that?" I mean, am I right?

Anyway, I love my classes. I really feel like I'm preparing for my career, where as in my undergrad I was definitely enjoying my classes, but more so as a hobby. And of course, my cohort is fantastic. The program itself, really, is incredible. Positive experiences all around!

Before I go, a change in direction: apparently September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. If you're looking for ways to help the cause, one way how I've done my part is through Pantene's "Beautiful Lengths" campaign: if you have hair long enough to donate 8+ inches, consider it! The hair goes into making wigs that are donated to people who've lost their hair from cancer treatments! Unlike other hair donation programs, this one doesn't charge for the wig! This past Wednesday, I donated 10 inches of my hair (to my mom's dismay). It's a great cause and (unless you're my dad) your hair will grow back! :)

Lots of love,
J