Man, this job can get mundane. RTC has been going smoothly and I believe I've helped to put it on the right track- no more coloring, after all this isn't elementary school; students average time in RTC is decreasing (knock of wood); and I believe staff are starting to trust in me and the RTP process. That being said, with less students coming in my days are filled with silence and surfing the web. I have started to study for the GRE's a little, but with so much uncertainty as to when I will take the test it is hard to motivate myself.
I have been thinking a lot lately about getting a tattoo. I would want it to have some sort of significance, i.e. a tattoo that represents equality, or something that represents my heritage- a traditional tattoo or something. I drew a really cool fist representing power and it is coming out of an equals sign (=). The fist comes out of the top dash and out of the bottom dash is the arm turning into tree roots which represent growth. The = is not filled, and the fist is colored. It is really cool, but I feel like it would be cooler on a shirt than on my body. I have no idea where I would have it.
As far as a traditional tattoo goes, I would want a shoulder one that could wrap down to my arm or a leg tattoo that wraps around my calf. I am doing research on traditional tattoos, but I am not having much luck. Any help would be appreciated.
Unrelated to tattoos and school is the weather... we are getting hammered with snow. We have to snow blow the driveway twice a day and the banks are up past my knee! Crazy stuff. I like it, but I hope all the snow we are getting now means that Winter will be shorter. I have a feeling I am wrong on this one.
I am excited for Justin to come home, he will be here in a week.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Thanksgiving
What a nice break. Thanksgiving in a nutshell: ate too much food, slept too much, had a great time with friends and family! Also, we had a snowday on Monday, which extended the vacation.
Here is a brief list of things I am thankful for:
Here is a brief list of things I am thankful for:
- All of my family
- All of my friends
- Choices
- Vacations
- Beaches
- The Sun
- Education
- The outdoors
- Camping
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Success
Last night I was thinking about what success means to me. When will I feel successful and how will that feel?
The strict dictionary definition of success is as follows:
suc⋅cess [suhk-ses]
–noun
1. the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors.
2. the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like.
"the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors," or having a goal at some level and reaching that goal- whether it be getting a job, passing a class, or simply brushing your teeth.
"the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like," most often money and power or rank.
Often times, definition one is lost on people, with emphasis on definition two, at least in the life I've known. There is a presence of "money equals success" everywhere I look. Moreover, people do not realize how successful they really are because they do not have the money to show for it. A great example of this would be the world of education. Teachers are greatly under-appreciated and definitely under-compensated for their work. However, because a teacher may only make $35,000 a year does not make them unsuccessful- they finished school, many have Master's degrees, and thousands are shaping this nation's future. Successful in my book.
I think that it is important that we decide what success means to us, as individuals. Why? Because "favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors," builds confidence in oneself and can make for a happier life. There is very little that feels better than setting a goal and reaching it. This is where definition two comes into play- what are your goals? What is important to you? Money? Rank? Awards? Love? A strong family?
The time I have spent since graduating from college has been the most difficult time of my life. I was thrown out of a lifestyle full of goals- getting good grades, winning a conference championship, making a tackle, being a leader in the classroom, etc.. Since then, I have struggled to set meaningful goals and I had lost the confidence in myself that was once so familiar. That is not to say I have lived an unhappy or bad life- simply, I have felt lost at times.
During this time my understanding of setting goals has come full circle. Never in my life has the importance of goal setting been so clear. I am beginning to find myself again. Certainly I have changed, but change isn't bad- even if I was totally comfortable and confident in who I was. I need to be flexible and adaptable- or I will become stale and stiff. Without question, however, I must determine what is important to me and hold that true to myself.
I whole-heartily believe that anyone can live a happy life if they use can understand what is important to them and use it as a guide.
So what is important to me? Being a good son, brother, friend, and role model is number one on the list. Of particular importance to me at this time is figuring out a career path. I certainly do not want to be a focus room teacher my whole life. Also, I want to be uncompromising when it comes to my beliefs- stay true to me and what I stand for. That is what is important to me. That is who I am. That is what makes me feel successful.
The strict dictionary definition of success is as follows:
suc⋅cess [suhk-ses]
–noun
1. the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors.
2. the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like.
"the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors," or having a goal at some level and reaching that goal- whether it be getting a job, passing a class, or simply brushing your teeth.
"the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like," most often money and power or rank.
Often times, definition one is lost on people, with emphasis on definition two, at least in the life I've known. There is a presence of "money equals success" everywhere I look. Moreover, people do not realize how successful they really are because they do not have the money to show for it. A great example of this would be the world of education. Teachers are greatly under-appreciated and definitely under-compensated for their work. However, because a teacher may only make $35,000 a year does not make them unsuccessful- they finished school, many have Master's degrees, and thousands are shaping this nation's future. Successful in my book.
I think that it is important that we decide what success means to us, as individuals. Why? Because "favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors," builds confidence in oneself and can make for a happier life. There is very little that feels better than setting a goal and reaching it. This is where definition two comes into play- what are your goals? What is important to you? Money? Rank? Awards? Love? A strong family?
The time I have spent since graduating from college has been the most difficult time of my life. I was thrown out of a lifestyle full of goals- getting good grades, winning a conference championship, making a tackle, being a leader in the classroom, etc.. Since then, I have struggled to set meaningful goals and I had lost the confidence in myself that was once so familiar. That is not to say I have lived an unhappy or bad life- simply, I have felt lost at times.
During this time my understanding of setting goals has come full circle. Never in my life has the importance of goal setting been so clear. I am beginning to find myself again. Certainly I have changed, but change isn't bad- even if I was totally comfortable and confident in who I was. I need to be flexible and adaptable- or I will become stale and stiff. Without question, however, I must determine what is important to me and hold that true to myself.
I whole-heartily believe that anyone can live a happy life if they use can understand what is important to them and use it as a guide.
So what is important to me? Being a good son, brother, friend, and role model is number one on the list. Of particular importance to me at this time is figuring out a career path. I certainly do not want to be a focus room teacher my whole life. Also, I want to be uncompromising when it comes to my beliefs- stay true to me and what I stand for. That is what is important to me. That is who I am. That is what makes me feel successful.
Monday, November 17, 2008
11/14
What a fun weekend! It started off with a half day of school on Friday. I still saw my fair of "disruptive" students but it was an easy day of work. We had a little staff lunch and then I went home to wait for Justin to arrive. There was very little excitement between getting home from work and Justin getting home. When Justin finally did make it the first thing I looked at was his tattoo. I like it, it definitely looks better in person than it does through a picture text.
We did not do much Friday, rented some video games and a couple of movies. We went to be relatively early; I was tired from a long week and Justin from driving.
Saturday I woke up early and went and played basketball with some of the guys I coach/work with. My mom made some really awesome omelets and then we played more video games and watched college football.
Saturday night family came over for games, snacks, and drinks. We played "A Game of Things," or something like that. There is a 'topic card' that says "Things you shouldn't do with glue," or "Things you would like to be able to do when your 85," then everyone writes a response and people try to guess who wrote what. It is a mix of Apples to Apples and Balderdash. We all had a great time with the game.
After that, our friend Zac, Justin, and myself went out to the bar for a couple of drinks and headed to our friend Betsy's house to hang out. We left at 4:30 am and went home to sleep! (Don't worry I wasn't drinking so I drove).
Sunday, I slept in and played hockey.
All-in-all it was an entertaining weekend. This week is a full week and next week I work a half day on Monday and Tuesday then we have a short Thanksgiving break! Should be fun.
We did not do much Friday, rented some video games and a couple of movies. We went to be relatively early; I was tired from a long week and Justin from driving.
Saturday I woke up early and went and played basketball with some of the guys I coach/work with. My mom made some really awesome omelets and then we played more video games and watched college football.
Saturday night family came over for games, snacks, and drinks. We played "A Game of Things," or something like that. There is a 'topic card' that says "Things you shouldn't do with glue," or "Things you would like to be able to do when your 85," then everyone writes a response and people try to guess who wrote what. It is a mix of Apples to Apples and Balderdash. We all had a great time with the game.
After that, our friend Zac, Justin, and myself went out to the bar for a couple of drinks and headed to our friend Betsy's house to hang out. We left at 4:30 am and went home to sleep! (Don't worry I wasn't drinking so I drove).
Sunday, I slept in and played hockey.
All-in-all it was an entertaining weekend. This week is a full week and next week I work a half day on Monday and Tuesday then we have a short Thanksgiving break! Should be fun.
Friday, November 14, 2008
An update!
Not sure if anyone checks this anymore, but for those true friends and family who continue to check despite months of inactivity, here is an update.
This summer was definitely an interesting summer. I was not a traditional summer break- it was more of a summer of work. I started in Colorado where I was trained to run voter registration offices across the country. I started in Pueblo, CO where I worked to find office space, but we never opened the office. Instead, I was in Colorado Springs, CO helping to open an office there. I even convinced my brother to sign on with the organization. After a couple of weeks my bro and I were contacted and asked if we would be willing to move to a new location. I chose to go to Grand Rapids, MI and Justin chose Richmond, VA.
I arrived in Grand Rapids with nothing but a computer and a place to stay- my cousins. My cousin, Jeremy, lives in Grand Rapids and he and his wife were awesome enough to let me stay in their basement. My first couple of days in Grand Rapids were spent getting to know the city, finding an office, and recruiting staff. At first, I was working out of a coffee shop with two assistant directors and a very small staff. We were able to grow and register people out of the coffee shop but, eventually, the coffee shop closed and we still had no office space (a lease was being approved). We began to work out of Rosa Park Circle and the Central Transit Center. We would meet staff there in the morning and after they were done registering people. Although circumstances were less than ideal, we continued to grow.
Finally, we were able to get into office space in mid-July. At this point, we blew up. We continued to hire... and hire... and hire. The more people we could send out, the more people we could register, the more people registered, the more people had a voice. At one point, we were the third largest campaign office out of over 60+ in our organization. This felt gratifying and I felt like I was doing the best I could, especially when I thought about my first day in Grand Rapids when I wondered the street by myself.
Overtime, we had ups and downs but we hit our goal and registered over 11,000 people in the matter of two months.
Now that the Voter Registration was over, it was time to move to the next project which was Campus Organizing. I flew out to Tempe, AZ and was trained at ASU- Tempe. This project was not all it cracked up to be; I was not trained very well or informed as to what was really going on. I felt more like a glorified gopher. On top of the crappy training, my flights got messed up- big time. In the end, I was able to fly home and I decided that his position, and political work in general, was a career path I did not want to take. So, I moved back home to Traverse City.
The first thing I did when I got home was contacted the football coaches at TC Central and began coaching again. I missed the first 3 games and all of mini-camp but I helped last year so I had some clue as to what was going on.
The next step was to find a job. I immediately began substitute teacher and about a week later I was hired as full-time staff at Central. Originally, my position was as a Special Education Aide but the swiftly moved me to the Responsible Thinking Classroom (RTC) Instructor. (If you want to know what that is click here)
That is where I am at today. I am trying to decide what the next step is. Here are my options:
1. Go to Physical Therapy school
- This would involve taking some science class at NMC and applying to a PT school
2. Get certified to teach
- I could do all of the certification necessary right here in TC
3. Join the Peace Corps
- Chance to travel the World and help out
Right now I am leaning toward choice number 1. What do you think?
Justin comes home today for a week and I am really excited! I haven't seen him since June, when we were both in Colorado Springs.
Hope this was a sufficient update. Thanks for reading.
This summer was definitely an interesting summer. I was not a traditional summer break- it was more of a summer of work. I started in Colorado where I was trained to run voter registration offices across the country. I started in Pueblo, CO where I worked to find office space, but we never opened the office. Instead, I was in Colorado Springs, CO helping to open an office there. I even convinced my brother to sign on with the organization. After a couple of weeks my bro and I were contacted and asked if we would be willing to move to a new location. I chose to go to Grand Rapids, MI and Justin chose Richmond, VA.
I arrived in Grand Rapids with nothing but a computer and a place to stay- my cousins. My cousin, Jeremy, lives in Grand Rapids and he and his wife were awesome enough to let me stay in their basement. My first couple of days in Grand Rapids were spent getting to know the city, finding an office, and recruiting staff. At first, I was working out of a coffee shop with two assistant directors and a very small staff. We were able to grow and register people out of the coffee shop but, eventually, the coffee shop closed and we still had no office space (a lease was being approved). We began to work out of Rosa Park Circle and the Central Transit Center. We would meet staff there in the morning and after they were done registering people. Although circumstances were less than ideal, we continued to grow.
Finally, we were able to get into office space in mid-July. At this point, we blew up. We continued to hire... and hire... and hire. The more people we could send out, the more people we could register, the more people registered, the more people had a voice. At one point, we were the third largest campaign office out of over 60+ in our organization. This felt gratifying and I felt like I was doing the best I could, especially when I thought about my first day in Grand Rapids when I wondered the street by myself.
Overtime, we had ups and downs but we hit our goal and registered over 11,000 people in the matter of two months.
Now that the Voter Registration was over, it was time to move to the next project which was Campus Organizing. I flew out to Tempe, AZ and was trained at ASU- Tempe. This project was not all it cracked up to be; I was not trained very well or informed as to what was really going on. I felt more like a glorified gopher. On top of the crappy training, my flights got messed up- big time. In the end, I was able to fly home and I decided that his position, and political work in general, was a career path I did not want to take. So, I moved back home to Traverse City.
The first thing I did when I got home was contacted the football coaches at TC Central and began coaching again. I missed the first 3 games and all of mini-camp but I helped last year so I had some clue as to what was going on.
The next step was to find a job. I immediately began substitute teacher and about a week later I was hired as full-time staff at Central. Originally, my position was as a Special Education Aide but the swiftly moved me to the Responsible Thinking Classroom (RTC) Instructor. (If you want to know what that is click here)
That is where I am at today. I am trying to decide what the next step is. Here are my options:
1. Go to Physical Therapy school
- This would involve taking some science class at NMC and applying to a PT school
2. Get certified to teach
- I could do all of the certification necessary right here in TC
3. Join the Peace Corps
- Chance to travel the World and help out
Right now I am leaning toward choice number 1. What do you think?
Justin comes home today for a week and I am really excited! I haven't seen him since June, when we were both in Colorado Springs.
Hope this was a sufficient update. Thanks for reading.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
UPDATE
Hey Everyone,
Sorry it has been such a long time since I have posted. I have been strapped for time and sans a computer. I am going to give a brief update and give as many details as possible.
JOB:
Well, I have been in CO for over a month now. I was supposed to open an office in Pueblo but, unfortunately, there have been many complications in opening an office. I have been working in Colorado Springs, helping their CVP office out. I am tired of not being able to have the type of impact I want to have and not running my own office. Because of this frustration I have agreed to move to Grand Rapids to open an office their for the summer. I am excited about this! As much as I have enjoyed my time in CO I am perfectly fine with moving. My personal desires is secondary to the impact I hope to have! So, I am leaving early Saturday morning and driving to Illinois where I will be staying with family!
Justin has decided not to make the journey to GR and has decided to traverse the country to Richmond, VA. He is excited about being able to see another part of the country.
LIFE AWAY FROM JOB:
Not really much of a life, ha. But in all honesty I have been enjoying my time in CO. I have spent several weekends in Denver hanging out with my aunt and my friends. I have enjoyed both the night life and the outdoor life that CO offers. That will be the toughest thing to leave!
Liz just left today. She spent a week out here with me. We successfully found her housing in Denver for Grad School and did a very difficult hike. She also helped me at work on my day in the office! I really appreciated the time I spent with her and it was time we both needed with each other.
I am excited that I get to spend the summer closer to my family! I miss them greatly and I am excited to get back and spend time with them!
Hope this update satisfies those who are reading. Once things settle down for me I will try and update more and have some substance to the posts!
Peace.
Sorry it has been such a long time since I have posted. I have been strapped for time and sans a computer. I am going to give a brief update and give as many details as possible.
JOB:
Well, I have been in CO for over a month now. I was supposed to open an office in Pueblo but, unfortunately, there have been many complications in opening an office. I have been working in Colorado Springs, helping their CVP office out. I am tired of not being able to have the type of impact I want to have and not running my own office. Because of this frustration I have agreed to move to Grand Rapids to open an office their for the summer. I am excited about this! As much as I have enjoyed my time in CO I am perfectly fine with moving. My personal desires is secondary to the impact I hope to have! So, I am leaving early Saturday morning and driving to Illinois where I will be staying with family!
Justin has decided not to make the journey to GR and has decided to traverse the country to Richmond, VA. He is excited about being able to see another part of the country.
LIFE AWAY FROM JOB:
Not really much of a life, ha. But in all honesty I have been enjoying my time in CO. I have spent several weekends in Denver hanging out with my aunt and my friends. I have enjoyed both the night life and the outdoor life that CO offers. That will be the toughest thing to leave!
Liz just left today. She spent a week out here with me. We successfully found her housing in Denver for Grad School and did a very difficult hike. She also helped me at work on my day in the office! I really appreciated the time I spent with her and it was time we both needed with each other.
I am excited that I get to spend the summer closer to my family! I miss them greatly and I am excited to get back and spend time with them!
Hope this update satisfies those who are reading. Once things settle down for me I will try and update more and have some substance to the posts!
Peace.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Brief Update
Wow, it has been crazy so far. Training went well, I met some cool people. The last couple of days I have been driving from Pueblo to Colorado Springs to help a co-worker find a place to live and an office. I have been working to find office space at the same time, as well as moving into my apartment. Justin will be working in the Pueblo office with me, which will be freakin' sweet! Unfortunately, that means I will probably have to pack all of my stuff up and move again because my landlords wont let us both stay. Oh well!
Shoot me a line to say what's up!
Shoot me a line to say what's up!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Denver
Well, I made it! It was a couple of long days and some awkward situations, but I am in Denver now. I spent around 9 1/2 hours driving on both days. The first night I stayed in Des Moines, IA. I stayed with the Canvass Director of those offices. Her place was small and messy as she was not home a lot and had just moved in. She had no couch for me but said that I could sleep in her bed with her.... yikes. I slept on the floor. Then, she started snoring so I was kicking stuff trying to wake her up and have her roll over and stop snoring. Eventually, I lifted her bed and dropped it. She woke up, I acted like I was sleeping, and she stopped snoring. Needless to say, I was out by 7 a.m. the next morning. I couldn't handle the smoke smell anymore.
I made it to Denver very safely with no troubles. I met up with my aunt and we unloaded some of my stuff so that if my car was broken into nothing would get stolen. Then, we went out to eat. After that I met up with my co-workers on Community Voters Project (CVP). I have my first day of training today, so hopefully I will be able to tell you more about it in a later post.
I miss everyone!
I made it to Denver very safely with no troubles. I met up with my aunt and we unloaded some of my stuff so that if my car was broken into nothing would get stolen. Then, we went out to eat. After that I met up with my co-workers on Community Voters Project (CVP). I have my first day of training today, so hopefully I will be able to tell you more about it in a later post.
I miss everyone!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Ann Arbor and CVP
Well, it has been a long week. I have been in Ann Arbor working with Environment Michigan to protect the Great Lakes. I was down there learning the basics of what is required of a Canvass Director (my title in Colorado). I also did some door to door canvassing trying to increase membership and raise money for Environment Michigan. The hours are absolutely crazy! 9 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. and then a social event every night after work. It is not extremely strenous work but definitely a long day.
So, now it is time to explain what I will be doing in Colorado. I will be working with the Community Voters Project to get citizens registered to vote for the upcoming presedential election. I will be living in Pueblo, CO (2 hours south of Denver, and 40 mins south of Colorado Springs). I leave this Sunday for training in Denver and I will be starting afterward! It is all happening so fast, but it is exciting.
Once the CVP is done I will working as a Campus Organizer for U.S. PIRG. I am not sure which campus I will be on or what our campaign will be. But, I know I will be organizing college students.
That is my job in a nutshell.
Other than that, not much is new. Liz is in Italy for a while. I miss her and can't wait for her to get back. I bought her tickets to come visit but I am worried I will not have much time with her. She can always come in and work with me.
More when I get to CO.
So, now it is time to explain what I will be doing in Colorado. I will be working with the Community Voters Project to get citizens registered to vote for the upcoming presedential election. I will be living in Pueblo, CO (2 hours south of Denver, and 40 mins south of Colorado Springs). I leave this Sunday for training in Denver and I will be starting afterward! It is all happening so fast, but it is exciting.
Once the CVP is done I will working as a Campus Organizer for U.S. PIRG. I am not sure which campus I will be on or what our campaign will be. But, I know I will be organizing college students.
That is my job in a nutshell.
Other than that, not much is new. Liz is in Italy for a while. I miss her and can't wait for her to get back. I bought her tickets to come visit but I am worried I will not have much time with her. She can always come in and work with me.
More when I get to CO.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
An update, finally
So, it is no secret that I have had a pretty tough couple of weeks. Liz and I sort of took a break because I had some issues I needed to straighten out. That lasted about 9 days. We decided to take things slowly and carefully. On top of that I felt like I had no direction in life, no idea of what I was going to do with my life, and no idea how to start figuring it out.
That all changed as of 8 p.m. yesterday. I got a phone call from U.S. PIRG and Th Fund for Public Interest. They offered me a pretty complicated position, which I will give you more details about on my next update. Anyway, if I take the job, which is 99% likely, I would start Monday, in Ann Arbor, go to Colorado (location not yet determined) for the summer, then start a Campus Organizer position after my project in CO. The project in CO is a voter outreach program. You know, 'get out the vote' type stuff.
So, that was all very exciting and crazy. Once this excitement wears off I will give you more details as to what my responsibilities are.
I haven't updated in a while so many of you probably don't know that I interviewed with U.S. PIRG. I actually didn't think it went that well, but it must have. The interview was in Chicago. I got to see my grandma who is living in the US until her health gets a little better. When she feels better she will return to Guam and the islands.
Well, when I figure out more I will update. Sorry it has taken me so long to update.
That all changed as of 8 p.m. yesterday. I got a phone call from U.S. PIRG and Th Fund for Public Interest. They offered me a pretty complicated position, which I will give you more details about on my next update. Anyway, if I take the job, which is 99% likely, I would start Monday, in Ann Arbor, go to Colorado (location not yet determined) for the summer, then start a Campus Organizer position after my project in CO. The project in CO is a voter outreach program. You know, 'get out the vote' type stuff.
So, that was all very exciting and crazy. Once this excitement wears off I will give you more details as to what my responsibilities are.
I haven't updated in a while so many of you probably don't know that I interviewed with U.S. PIRG. I actually didn't think it went that well, but it must have. The interview was in Chicago. I got to see my grandma who is living in the US until her health gets a little better. When she feels better she will return to Guam and the islands.
Well, when I figure out more I will update. Sorry it has taken me so long to update.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
U.S. PIRG
Hello everyone.
A little update. When I got back from San Francisco I took a couple days off to relax and rejuvenate. Once I was re-energized I began my job search again. I came across opportunities with U.S. PIRG (Public Interest Research Group). PIRG's are state based and funded by citizens of the state. They are non-partisan and independent from the government. They speak up and advocate for the interest of the public. They stand up to special interest lobbyist and groups who use their power and money to silence ordinary citizens who may not have as much influence because of lack of money or power. For a better understanding here is their mission statement:
Within the fellowship there are two different positions: Issues Associate and Field Associate. Here are the descriptions of both:
Issue Associates: As an Issue Associate, you are expected to master your issue area, research and write reports, develop and coordinate campaigns, prepare legislative testimony, build statewide and national coalitions, organize media events, raise funds, and meet with elected officials in support of legislation.
Field Associates: As a Field Associate, you work to demonstrate support for PIRG proposals at the state or regional level. You must quickly master the basics of a variety of issues, and then reach out to individuals, media outlets and organizations to build visibility and gain their support. This year, Field Associates organized support for measures to help solve our dependence on oil, stop drilling in the Arctic, and protect open space from out-of-control development.
I am very interested in the Issue Associate position. I like this position because I am more accountable for myself and I have to motivate myself. I think I work well in both a team position and individually. But, I feel as an Issue Associate I will be able to push myself to learn more, grow more, and push myself harder.
I can work on many different issues, including: sprawl, global warming, democracy, biotechnology, factory farming, clean air, toxic waste, energy, banking and financial services, consumer protection, health care, endangered species, wilderness preservation, higher education, clean water or transportation.
Here are my top choices:
Away from job searching I have been fishing a little! And I got to see Liz again because she came up for the weekend.
Anyway, I will keep you updated. Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions! Or just wanna say hi!
A little update. When I got back from San Francisco I took a couple days off to relax and rejuvenate. Once I was re-energized I began my job search again. I came across opportunities with U.S. PIRG (Public Interest Research Group). PIRG's are state based and funded by citizens of the state. They are non-partisan and independent from the government. They speak up and advocate for the interest of the public. They stand up to special interest lobbyist and groups who use their power and money to silence ordinary citizens who may not have as much influence because of lack of money or power. For a better understanding here is their mission statement:
U.S. PIRG is an advocate for the public interest. When consumers are cheated, or the voices of ordinary citizens are drowned out by special interest lobbyists, U.S. PIRG speaks up and takes action. We uncover threats to public health and well-being and fight to end them, using the time-tested tools of investigative research, media exposés, grassroots organizing, advocacy and litigation. U.S. PIRG's mission is to deliver persistent, result-oriented public interest activism that protects our health, encourages a fair, sustainable economy, and fosters responsive, democratic government.
I am applying for a campus organizer (similar responsibilities to those of the field organizer position that I applied for with Greenpeace) and a fellowship opportunity. I am hoping to get the fellowship position. With the fellowship I would have a mentor who I would report to and who would provide me with training and guidance. It is exactly what I need.Within the fellowship there are two different positions: Issues Associate and Field Associate. Here are the descriptions of both:
Issue Associates: As an Issue Associate, you are expected to master your issue area, research and write reports, develop and coordinate campaigns, prepare legislative testimony, build statewide and national coalitions, organize media events, raise funds, and meet with elected officials in support of legislation.
Field Associates: As a Field Associate, you work to demonstrate support for PIRG proposals at the state or regional level. You must quickly master the basics of a variety of issues, and then reach out to individuals, media outlets and organizations to build visibility and gain their support. This year, Field Associates organized support for measures to help solve our dependence on oil, stop drilling in the Arctic, and protect open space from out-of-control development.
I am very interested in the Issue Associate position. I like this position because I am more accountable for myself and I have to motivate myself. I think I work well in both a team position and individually. But, I feel as an Issue Associate I will be able to push myself to learn more, grow more, and push myself harder.
I can work on many different issues, including: sprawl, global warming, democracy, biotechnology, factory farming, clean air, toxic waste, energy, banking and financial services, consumer protection, health care, endangered species, wilderness preservation, higher education, clean water or transportation.
Here are my top choices:
- Higher Education
- Global Warming
- Wilderness Preservation
- Democracy
- Endangered Species
- Clean Water
- Clean Air
- Transportation
Away from job searching I have been fishing a little! And I got to see Liz again because she came up for the weekend.
Anyway, I will keep you updated. Please feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions! Or just wanna say hi!
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Alabama and California
Sorry that I have not updated in a while. I have been busy traveling the United States. Since my last update I have traveled to the Southern, Western, and Eastern coasts of the US.
BAMA-
About two weeks ago I headed down to Orange Beach, AL
(just west of Gulf Shores) for Hope's 
spring break. Liz has a condo on the ocean there and her parents were kind enough to let us stay there for a week. However, it was not just Liz and myself; BT and Troy (for those of you who do not know them, I played football with both of them at home and I lived with BT for part of a summer. Also, you
should probably feel bad for Liz). We spent the entirety of the week hanging on the beach, fishing, and doing a little shopping. Troy and BT did more fishing tha
n Liz and I but I did get some line in the water. I managed to catch a dinky little bait fish (equivalent to a small bluegill...) it is a spring break curse that has haunted me since Spring Break '06 (Tennessee and Georgia). I really would rather not discuss the curse. All four of us managed to get a pretty terrible burn; we were all peeling within three days of being there. The weather was great and it was fun to get away.
Liz's parents and grandparents did so much for all of us and we are all extremely thankful for all they did! So, if you are reading, thanks from all of us!
PICS: All of us at dinner for BT's birthday, Troy and his vicious Bluefish, BT and Troy with a Catfish, and the last two are Lizzie and I!
CALI-
Last Friday I flew out to San Francisco for the interview I have been talking about with Greenpeace. Judy, Jeff's girlfriend, picked my up from the airport on Friday around 1:00 p.m.. She took me downtown to get a bite to eat and to show me the town. After showing me around for a couple of hours we went to Jeff's house to relax until Jeff got off of work. I took these first two pictures a short distance from Jeff's house.
Saturday I got up early to head to my interview, which was very tough! There were 60 of us interviewing for about 22
positions. First, we were split up into 4 groups, as there were four different stages of the interview. My groups first task was to head to the streets to try and get people to sign a postcard to their Congressperson. I was able to get 14 people to fill out the postcard which I was happy with.
Next, our group participated in the Campaign Strategy portion of the day. We were given two scenarios to work through; the first with guidance and the second without guidance. I wish I would have taken more charge here. I was really hesitant to lead because I did not want to be overbearing. I probably would have been better served to err on the side of controlling. I felt as though I had some important input but probably not as much leadership as I should have shown.
After this portion of the day it was time for lunch! Three field organizers (which is the position I applied for) shared some of their experiences with us. It was laid back and fun. Greenpeace supplied the lunch for us.
Our third task was public speaking! This is where I felt as though I could have done much better. First, our task was related to one-on-one situations. For example, I had to convince the Editor or the local newspaper to write an editorial on my position regarding the upcoming proposal for universal health care for our state. I was really unsure of how to approach this. The person we were speaking to did not respond or do anything other than sit there and listen. I felt as though I was not very articulate in this task. The next part of public speaking was oriented toward larger groups. My scenario was to speak to a biology class at a local college about an event that Greenpeace was holding. I was trying to inspire them to come and participate. I did well, I think, but I could have done better.
The final section of the day consisted of two final interviews. I really enjoyed these because it allowed me to show them who I was and what I was about, without having to worry about scenarios and what others were doing. I enjoyed this portion more than the previous to and equally enjoyable to the postcarding. I had fun postcarding because I was able to meet people; I felt good about the interview because I liked discussing why I was there and I was reminded of my desire for social justice.
After the interview was FINALLY over we all went across the street for some drinks. I had two glasses of Anchor Steam, a very tasty local brew! All of the people who participated in the day (the applicants and the employees) came to the bar. It was a great way to loosen up after an extremely duelling day.
Overall, the day was a very valuable experience. I had never been through such a demanding interview. I wish I had had the experience of a similar interview before because I feel as though I could have stood out in a large crowd. Unfortunately, I did not get the job. I think my lack of experience hurt me. BUT, I did gain a great deal of knowledge from the experience. Also, I met a lot of cool people and got a free flight to San Francisco.
Jeff and Judy left for their spring break Saturday night, leaving my by myself. Sunday I hitched a ride with Jeff's roommate downtown. I spent the day exploring the city and doing a little shopping. All-in-all, I probably walked for a good 6 hours. When I got home I was exhausted, but it was an enjoyable day.
Here are some pics of the city! (Chinatown, Union Square, the Bay Bridge)
The trip home was interesting, to say the least. My plane sat on the runway for an hour and a half to seal a break in the plane. Then, my flight from Denver to GR was cancelled because of mechanical reasons. The only flight they could switch me to was a full 24 hours later. So, they switched flights for me. I flew from Denver to Newark, NJ and from NJ to GR. But, I had a 6 hour layover in Denver. My flight left from Denver an hour and a half late which put a bit of a jump in my step once we landed. I was able to make my connection in time to land in GR around 9 a.m. the next day. Once landed, I arrived to cold and snowy weather, along with lost luggage. However, I had prepared myself for the fact that my luggage would be lost. I was happy that all of this occurred on the way home and not the way out.
I made it back to my cousin's house to take a nap and get my car. I headed to Holland to see Lizzie, my coaches (who I had not seen in a long time) and Troy and Joey. Overall, I have had a great time since my last update.
BAMA-
About two weeks ago I headed down to Orange Beach, AL
(just west of Gulf Shores) for Hope's 
spring break. Liz has a condo on the ocean there and her parents were kind enough to let us stay there for a week. However, it was not just Liz and myself; BT and Troy (for those of you who do not know them, I played football with both of them at home and I lived with BT for part of a summer. Also, you
should probably feel bad for Liz). We spent the entirety of the week hanging on the beach, fishing, and doing a little shopping. Troy and BT did more fishing tha
n Liz and I but I did get some line in the water. I managed to catch a dinky little bait fish (equivalent to a small bluegill...) it is a spring break curse that has haunted me since Spring Break '06 (Tennessee and Georgia). I really would rather not discuss the curse. All four of us managed to get a pretty terrible burn; we were all peeling within three days of being there. The weather was great and it was fun to get away.Liz's parents and grandparents did so much for all of us and we are all extremely thankful for all they did! So, if you are reading, thanks from all of us!
PICS: All of us at dinner for BT's birthday, Troy and his vicious Bluefish, BT and Troy with a Catfish, and the last two are Lizzie and I!
CALI-
Last Friday I flew out to San Francisco for the interview I have been talking about with Greenpeace. Judy, Jeff's girlfriend, picked my up from the airport on Friday around 1:00 p.m.. She took me downtown to get a bite to eat and to show me the town. After showing me around for a couple of hours we went to Jeff's house to relax until Jeff got off of work. I took these first two pictures a short distance from Jeff's house.Saturday I got up early to head to my interview, which was very tough! There were 60 of us interviewing for about 22
positions. First, we were split up into 4 groups, as there were four different stages of the interview. My groups first task was to head to the streets to try and get people to sign a postcard to their Congressperson. I was able to get 14 people to fill out the postcard which I was happy with.Next, our group participated in the Campaign Strategy portion of the day. We were given two scenarios to work through; the first with guidance and the second without guidance. I wish I would have taken more charge here. I was really hesitant to lead because I did not want to be overbearing. I probably would have been better served to err on the side of controlling. I felt as though I had some important input but probably not as much leadership as I should have shown.
After this portion of the day it was time for lunch! Three field organizers (which is the position I applied for) shared some of their experiences with us. It was laid back and fun. Greenpeace supplied the lunch for us.
Our third task was public speaking! This is where I felt as though I could have done much better. First, our task was related to one-on-one situations. For example, I had to convince the Editor or the local newspaper to write an editorial on my position regarding the upcoming proposal for universal health care for our state. I was really unsure of how to approach this. The person we were speaking to did not respond or do anything other than sit there and listen. I felt as though I was not very articulate in this task. The next part of public speaking was oriented toward larger groups. My scenario was to speak to a biology class at a local college about an event that Greenpeace was holding. I was trying to inspire them to come and participate. I did well, I think, but I could have done better.
The final section of the day consisted of two final interviews. I really enjoyed these because it allowed me to show them who I was and what I was about, without having to worry about scenarios and what others were doing. I enjoyed this portion more than the previous to and equally enjoyable to the postcarding. I had fun postcarding because I was able to meet people; I felt good about the interview because I liked discussing why I was there and I was reminded of my desire for social justice.
After the interview was FINALLY over we all went across the street for some drinks. I had two glasses of Anchor Steam, a very tasty local brew! All of the people who participated in the day (the applicants and the employees) came to the bar. It was a great way to loosen up after an extremely duelling day.
Overall, the day was a very valuable experience. I had never been through such a demanding interview. I wish I had had the experience of a similar interview before because I feel as though I could have stood out in a large crowd. Unfortunately, I did not get the job. I think my lack of experience hurt me. BUT, I did gain a great deal of knowledge from the experience. Also, I met a lot of cool people and got a free flight to San Francisco.
Jeff and Judy left for their spring break Saturday night, leaving my by myself. Sunday I hitched a ride with Jeff's roommate downtown. I spent the day exploring the city and doing a little shopping. All-in-all, I probably walked for a good 6 hours. When I got home I was exhausted, but it was an enjoyable day.
Here are some pics of the city! (Chinatown, Union Square, the Bay Bridge)
The trip home was interesting, to say the least. My plane sat on the runway for an hour and a half to seal a break in the plane. Then, my flight from Denver to GR was cancelled because of mechanical reasons. The only flight they could switch me to was a full 24 hours later. So, they switched flights for me. I flew from Denver to Newark, NJ and from NJ to GR. But, I had a 6 hour layover in Denver. My flight left from Denver an hour and a half late which put a bit of a jump in my step once we landed. I was able to make my connection in time to land in GR around 9 a.m. the next day. Once landed, I arrived to cold and snowy weather, along with lost luggage. However, I had prepared myself for the fact that my luggage would be lost. I was happy that all of this occurred on the way home and not the way out.I made it back to my cousin's house to take a nap and get my car. I headed to Holland to see Lizzie, my coaches (who I had not seen in a long time) and Troy and Joey. Overall, I have had a great time since my last update.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Hope
I had a great weekend down at Hope! I am glad I was able to spend time with Lizzie, who I hadn't seen in a while. I saw all my boys too! It was very nice. And, since the weekend is over, there are only 4 days to get through before I leave for Spring Break! Liz, Troy, BT, and I are going to Liz's condos down in Gulf Shores, AL. We plan on relaxing on the beach all day and doing some fishing!
I booked my flight for San Francisco. I am excited but I feel like there is a lot I need to be doing to get ready. I am not really sure what I should be doing though? Researching the company? Researching the industry? But what about the industry do I need to search? Any suggestions?
Well I hope everyone has a great week. I will probably update next from Alabama.
I booked my flight for San Francisco. I am excited but I feel like there is a lot I need to be doing to get ready. I am not really sure what I should be doing though? Researching the company? Researching the industry? But what about the industry do I need to search? Any suggestions?
Well I hope everyone has a great week. I will probably update next from Alabama.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Last weekend of February
Hello All!
My interview went great! I feel like I prepared really well, but there were some questions that caught me off guard. I was given some situational/campaign strategy questions that I was not expecting but I feel like I handled it well! She asked me one question which I particularly liked. The questions was "They say that everyone is rebelling against something, what are you rebelling against?" At first I said stereotypes, but as I articulated my thoughts I said I was rebelling against indifference more so than stereotypes. When I say "indifference" I mean the idea that one cannot make a difference or that what one does does not make a difference and that nothing can be done so why care? Why try? I am rebelling against this indifference. This is what motivates me. I believe that everyone can make a difference and that it does not have to be huge or elaborate actions; sometimes the smallest things can go the longest way. I think that my interviewer liked that response!
At the end of the phone interview (my second interview with them) I was asking about the next step; how would I know if I would be invited to the final interview? Would she contact me by phone or email to let me know either way? How long until I would find out? She told me that only the top candidates get invited to San Francisco for a day long, in-person interview. She said that she really enjoyed our interview and she thought I am an excellent candidate for the position. So, she invited me on the spot for the final interview! They will be flying me out to San Francisco on March 28th! I was extremely excited!
This was on Friday, a great way to start the weekend. After that I met up with my family at Timberlee. Timberlee (I am not sure if that is how you spell it) is a tubing resort. Basically you get towed up a hill and slide down on tubes! I had a blast. Dylan and I decided to take out shirts off and ride down the hill with only our bottom halves clothed. I made sure to get in front of Dylan when we went. As I was in front of him I put my hands and feet down so that he was sprayed with snow. When we got to the bottom I was perfectly dry and not cold at all. Dylan, on the other hand, was soaking wet and freezing. We went down one more time and then Dylan went inside to warm up. I waited at the top of the hill for the rest of my family but after 30 mins of waiting I went down to find out everyone was leaving. They were literally in their cars about to leave me.
Saturday was a great day as well. I woke up early Saturday to play basketball at the high school with some of the guys I coach with and some high schoolers. Obviously- we dominated. The rest of the day was fairly uneventful. Zac came over later in the evening and him and Justin had a couple drinks and I dropped him off at the bar.
Sunday I went cross country skiing with my mom! We skied around 5 1/2 miles or so. After skiing I went to hockey, where we lost 8-2! It was a fun weekend.
Monday was my dad's birthday!! We had an awesome dinner, cake, and ice cream! I got him some golf balls. Golf stuff never fails for my dad.
Other than that my life has been pretty bland. I sub everyday, workout, study for GRE's and lounge around and play video games.
I hope all is well with anyone who is reading this, if anyone is reading this.
My interview went great! I feel like I prepared really well, but there were some questions that caught me off guard. I was given some situational/campaign strategy questions that I was not expecting but I feel like I handled it well! She asked me one question which I particularly liked. The questions was "They say that everyone is rebelling against something, what are you rebelling against?" At first I said stereotypes, but as I articulated my thoughts I said I was rebelling against indifference more so than stereotypes. When I say "indifference" I mean the idea that one cannot make a difference or that what one does does not make a difference and that nothing can be done so why care? Why try? I am rebelling against this indifference. This is what motivates me. I believe that everyone can make a difference and that it does not have to be huge or elaborate actions; sometimes the smallest things can go the longest way. I think that my interviewer liked that response!
At the end of the phone interview (my second interview with them) I was asking about the next step; how would I know if I would be invited to the final interview? Would she contact me by phone or email to let me know either way? How long until I would find out? She told me that only the top candidates get invited to San Francisco for a day long, in-person interview. She said that she really enjoyed our interview and she thought I am an excellent candidate for the position. So, she invited me on the spot for the final interview! They will be flying me out to San Francisco on March 28th! I was extremely excited!
This was on Friday, a great way to start the weekend. After that I met up with my family at Timberlee. Timberlee (I am not sure if that is how you spell it) is a tubing resort. Basically you get towed up a hill and slide down on tubes! I had a blast. Dylan and I decided to take out shirts off and ride down the hill with only our bottom halves clothed. I made sure to get in front of Dylan when we went. As I was in front of him I put my hands and feet down so that he was sprayed with snow. When we got to the bottom I was perfectly dry and not cold at all. Dylan, on the other hand, was soaking wet and freezing. We went down one more time and then Dylan went inside to warm up. I waited at the top of the hill for the rest of my family but after 30 mins of waiting I went down to find out everyone was leaving. They were literally in their cars about to leave me.
Saturday was a great day as well. I woke up early Saturday to play basketball at the high school with some of the guys I coach with and some high schoolers. Obviously- we dominated. The rest of the day was fairly uneventful. Zac came over later in the evening and him and Justin had a couple drinks and I dropped him off at the bar.
Sunday I went cross country skiing with my mom! We skied around 5 1/2 miles or so. After skiing I went to hockey, where we lost 8-2! It was a fun weekend.
Monday was my dad's birthday!! We had an awesome dinner, cake, and ice cream! I got him some golf balls. Golf stuff never fails for my dad.
Other than that my life has been pretty bland. I sub everyday, workout, study for GRE's and lounge around and play video games.
I hope all is well with anyone who is reading this, if anyone is reading this.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Wrestling, Fishing, and Hockey
This weekend was very long! I had a lot of fun though. Friday I worked out and then went out with some friends. We had a good time. I only slept for a couple of hours and then had to get up and leave for Hartland, MI. I went there to watch my younger brother wrestle in the individual regional tournament. Sadly, he lost but he had a great season and a great career. If you are reading this Dylan, I am very proud of you! We got back on Saturday evening and I just laid-low and tried to catch up on some sleep.
Sunday I went ice fishing with my some relatives. We went to Portage Lake in Onekama. We were fishing for perch and kept around 50 even though we caught many more. Then, after fishing, I had my usual Sunday night hockey game. I scored twice again (with an assist from my cousin, Kurt, who I went fishing with). We ended up losing 5-3. Oh well.
After hockey, I joined Kurt and his in-laws to eat the fish we had caught. I had never had perch before but I liked it. It had no real fish taste or smell to it at all.
Then I went home and passed out!
I am really excited for Spring Break. I wish it would come quicker!
This week should be eventful. Justin is finally done coaching so he can start lifting with me now. I also have my interview this week, as well as a dentist appointment. I also hope to get in some x-country skiing and snowing shoeing with my mom. I might go to Hope this weekend but I need to save money for Spring Break, so it will be a game time decision!
That is all I got for you. Leave me a message and let me know there are people reading! I changed it so you do not have to register anymore.
Sunday I went ice fishing with my some relatives. We went to Portage Lake in Onekama. We were fishing for perch and kept around 50 even though we caught many more. Then, after fishing, I had my usual Sunday night hockey game. I scored twice again (with an assist from my cousin, Kurt, who I went fishing with). We ended up losing 5-3. Oh well.
After hockey, I joined Kurt and his in-laws to eat the fish we had caught. I had never had perch before but I liked it. It had no real fish taste or smell to it at all.
Then I went home and passed out!
I am really excited for Spring Break. I wish it would come quicker!
This week should be eventful. Justin is finally done coaching so he can start lifting with me now. I also have my interview this week, as well as a dentist appointment. I also hope to get in some x-country skiing and snowing shoeing with my mom. I might go to Hope this weekend but I need to save money for Spring Break, so it will be a game time decision!
That is all I got for you. Leave me a message and let me know there are people reading! I changed it so you do not have to register anymore.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Weekend Update
Hello everyone,
Just a quick update: My youngEST brother, Dylan (not Justin), qualified for regionals this weekend! He finished in 3rd place, ending the day at 3-1. He will wrestle at Hartland this weekend to try and qualify for States. See my links on the right to get more info, or click here http://www.trojanwrestling.com
Lizzie came up on Thursday night! It was nice to see her finally. I hadn't seen her in 3 weeks or so. Friday we went on our Valentines date; dinner, a movie, and coffee and dessert! Saturday we left really early for Saginaw to watch D wrestle. I had to drive there, but it was not a bad drive. Sunday we just relaxed and I went to my hockey game. We tied 5-5 but Justin and I accounted for 3 of the goals (2 for me, 1 for him). I also managed to miss the puck on an attempted slap shot, fall, and slide head-first into the boards. It was sweet. Monday, Liz decided to stay an extra night which was awesome. We did some errands and grabbed some lunch. I always wish we would live closer.
I heard back from Greenpeace! I have a second interview on the 29th. I guess I haven't mentioned that my interview went well. I am excited. The position sounds great to me. Very team-oriented, but I would take more of a leadership role. It is a great chance for me to make a lot of contacts and see different areas of the US (there is some relocation).
That is about it for now. I am excited for Spring Break. I wish I would be doing it with my Hope boys like I have for the last three years. Miss you guys if you are reading this! I think I am heading to Alabama with Liz, Justin, and Troy.... but it really depends on how this second interview goes and if I will be invited to a final interview. WISH ME LUCK.
Just a quick update: My youngEST brother, Dylan (not Justin), qualified for regionals this weekend! He finished in 3rd place, ending the day at 3-1. He will wrestle at Hartland this weekend to try and qualify for States. See my links on the right to get more info, or click here http://www.trojanwrestling.com
Lizzie came up on Thursday night! It was nice to see her finally. I hadn't seen her in 3 weeks or so. Friday we went on our Valentines date; dinner, a movie, and coffee and dessert! Saturday we left really early for Saginaw to watch D wrestle. I had to drive there, but it was not a bad drive. Sunday we just relaxed and I went to my hockey game. We tied 5-5 but Justin and I accounted for 3 of the goals (2 for me, 1 for him). I also managed to miss the puck on an attempted slap shot, fall, and slide head-first into the boards. It was sweet. Monday, Liz decided to stay an extra night which was awesome. We did some errands and grabbed some lunch. I always wish we would live closer.
I heard back from Greenpeace! I have a second interview on the 29th. I guess I haven't mentioned that my interview went well. I am excited. The position sounds great to me. Very team-oriented, but I would take more of a leadership role. It is a great chance for me to make a lot of contacts and see different areas of the US (there is some relocation).
That is about it for now. I am excited for Spring Break. I wish I would be doing it with my Hope boys like I have for the last three years. Miss you guys if you are reading this! I think I am heading to Alabama with Liz, Justin, and Troy.... but it really depends on how this second interview goes and if I will be invited to a final interview. WISH ME LUCK.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Global Warming
Yesterday I had a phone interview with Greenpeace. I applied for a Field Organizer position to fight global warming! The interview went very well in my opinion. The interviewer seemed excited and to agree with my responses to her questions. Now I have to wait for an email to set up a second phone interview.
This job seems very interesting to me. I would be organizing a group of volunteers to get congress to vote to fight global warming. I would initiate my own campaign strategy and implement it. I would be generating media coverage, holding learning and info sessions of global warming, and other specific duties. They have a intense training program, which I like because I do not have a ton of experience with global warming. It is very team oriented, which I have plenty of experience with!
Well I will update you when I know more about the position.
I do think global warming is a huge problem. Scientist predict that if we do not do something now all the polar ice caps will melt by 2040. And the United States produces 25% of the world's green house gases! We have the resources to fix it: Renewable energy, clean energy, and the ability to make cars more fuel efficient. It is a matter of getting congress to break their ties with car companies, oil companies, and all the other groups giving them money so that we can do something about it. Politicians are tied more to their constituents than they are to their party's beliefs. That is a huge problem with American politics.
Well I am done with my rant. I hope everyone is doing well!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Cars, Jobs, and Confusion
Today is my first full day with my new car! It feels good to actually pay for and own something. I guess I paid for my education and I have a Bachelors degree to show for it but other than getting me a job as a substitute teacher it has not done much for me yet! I have something tangable that I can use and it feels good. I have spent the last couple of months trying to find direction. It has been tough, confusing, and discouraging. But, somehow, buying a car makes me feel better, like I have accomplished something.
I have an interview with Greenpeace on Monday. I applied for a Field Organizer position to help combat global warming. I would be responsible for recruiting volunteers and making my own campaign and putting it into action. I have a lot of studying to do this weekend on what my job entails and the ins and outs of global warming. I feel like pieces are starting to fall into place!
That is it for now, I better get back to work!
I have an interview with Greenpeace on Monday. I applied for a Field Organizer position to help combat global warming. I would be responsible for recruiting volunteers and making my own campaign and putting it into action. I have a lot of studying to do this weekend on what my job entails and the ins and outs of global warming. I feel like pieces are starting to fall into place!
That is it for now, I better get back to work!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
