In early October, my university had a fall “break,” which was only actually a Monday and Tuesday. Nonetheless, I got to go home for a weekend and went on a trip to the Grand Canyon with a large group of international students. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon once before in 7th grade and I was a bit underwhelmed. This time was about the same: it seemed as though we drove four hours just to take some pictures. I would love to raft or hike the canyon on day, but until then, I don’t think I’ll be visiting the Grand Canyon anytime soon.
Aside from usual club meetings, I have been involved in other campus activities through my clubs. First, I ran a study abroad workshop for life science freshman through School of Life Science Ambassadors. The students had the option to attend four of about seven or eight workshops throughout the afternoon and I taught one on study abroad. The other presenters were professors, which made me a bit nervous, but I did a lot better than I expected. The students liked my icebreaker quiz (probably for the candy) and seemed interested in what I had to say. Also through School of Life Science Ambassadors, I volunteered at the School of Life Science booth at the big homecoming block party. I was only there for a few hours, but the block party was lively and we attracted a lot of curious kids, young and old. Finally, I volunteered at the study abroad fair: a large event to showcase all the study abroad options available at the university. Naturally, I manned the United Kingdom booth, answering questions about various programs and the country.
We had The Sound of Music at Gammage about halfway through the month. It wasn’t one of my favorites, but I did enjoy it. Other than that, I’ve been working about ten hours a week between Gammage and the school of music. One of the house managers for the school of music, Jacob, is graduating in December, and I think I’m ripe to take his place in the spring.
My academics have been pretty much the same: I’m always doing work unless I’m working, sleeping, bathing or eating. I’m doing fairly well in my classes, but I’m looking forward to a lighter load next term. All four of my my major classes have tests within a few days of each other, so once a month I’m extra stressed preparing for all of them.
The last weekend in October, I went home, mostly because my roommate was having a huge party on Friday night. It was good to see my family (including Bailey) and relax. I didn’t get up to much on Halloween other than studying for my exams this coming week.
This month really flew by. I hope November goes by just as quickly!
What I’m listening to: Songs for the Deaf by Queens of the Stone Age, Room on Fire by The Strokes, Toxicity by System of a Down, The Getaway by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Diamond Eyes by Deftones, Joanne by Lady Gaga, Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die! By Panic! At the Disco, Sam’s Town by The Killers, Abbey Road by The Beatles
What I’m watching: What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Into the Wild, Grizzly Man, Audrie & Daisy, Daredevil (season 2), Before the Flood
What I’m reading: The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert
Wow, you have been really busy. To me, it sounds like next semester will be just as busy. You don’t have to worry about time going by quickly. Every month and every year fly by quick enough. You’ll know what I’m talking about later in life. I love you very much and think of you all the time. Keep up the good work!!!