Don't discard me just because you think I mean you harm

I'm not going to lie. I really didn't read that much of the text. However, the common theme seemed to be to do things the way that is best for you. BUT still being able to be adaptable to other scenarios. That's what part of this class was about, right? Finding out how you learn best, and what your strengths as a learner are. To me,that was the most prominent theme. I wasn't really compelled to read that book, honestly... I guess this is the consequence for that. I do believe though it covered that as well. Cause and effect basically.

I don't mean to gloat or be on a high horse, but I really don't have problems learning. I think that's what that is insinuating. I read and write well, I don't usually struggle with math, science has always been a favorite of mine, I can communicate well with others, I work well in groups. That's kind of why I felt this class didn't have much to offer me. Coming in to Butler this semester I already had 24 butler hours from dual-credit High School courses and just classes from traveling instructors. So I was already familiar with the pipeline and how to navigate it well. I also knew that the library was searchable online. I really grasp theories well, abstract thoughts and facts aren't really difficult either. Like I stated earlier, learning is something I've always been at ease with, I rather enjoy it, and it's quite frustrating when I don't learn. As far as teaching someone something? I'm not so sure, I do have trouble sometimes teaching, but usually after I get to know someone and understand their thought process that really isn't a problem at all either. I think one of my strongest skills is researching. I really hate it, but I can usually find some sources that are more obscure.

Honestly, I had better never have to take a course like this again. It was painstakingly boring and trite. I don't feel I really gained anything. Technically speaking, in this certain case, I think my greatest weakness was the willpower to show up. Really, that only affects this class so I believe it to be a non-issue. I'm not really envious of anyone else in that class. I can do exactly what they can do just fine. I don't anticipate having to try to compare myself to anyone else just to find a weakness or strength. I'd call that competition rather unfair. Yet truthfully speaking, there is not really anything I need to improve on, if I had to choose something I'd say managing my time, but really, that isn't that big of a deal, I make it work. I sort of suck at organization, but that's kind of how I think, my thoughts tend to be kind of spontaneous, and abstract, which I think is a good attribute seeing as how I'm on the air. I don't really enjoy just putting this question out of it's misery, but I'm comfortable with the way I learn; it's never done me wrong and I don't believe there is really a call to change here.

What do I feel I learned? Well, I'd actually have to say the most prominent in my mind would be that presentation "batgirl" gave on research. Her presentation had several spelling and grammatical errors. I just realized right then, that maybe I need to go on to a university- like I was originally going to do. Now-don't get me wrong, I've enjoyed my time here at Butler, and have gained loads of knowledge from Mr. Swan, and in particular Mr. Hayes. This class really doesn't represent the way I work or learn. It's my black sheep. Anyway, after that day with the aforementioned presentation is when I really lost my will to show up to this class. I felt like it had nothing to offer. Not to mention the only question I missed was the one about Bat-girl, I'm only a geek not a nerd...give me a break. I do wish I could have some nice quote to put in here like

"When I was seventeen I walked into the jungle, and when I was twenty-one I walked out. And by God I was rich."

that of course coming from Aurthur Miller's Death of Salesman. But I really don't feel like I gained much, if anything at all. I think I learned that sometimes classes should have more structure as to who is required, as apposed to just "everyone".

Sometimes being honest is difficult, and I know I didn't show up most of the time. But I still feel when I did I was wasting my time. The presentation that made the biggest impact on me was that research one, the one the librarian gave. However, as discussed above it was a negative impact. I just can't believe that someone who surrounds themselves with books and periodicals would make some of those errors. They just weren't like typos either. there was one I specifically remember, the one that really blew me out of the water, was using the article "a" preceding a word that began with a vowel. That's elementary. I don't know how I'm supposed to trust someone who is supposed to be helping me and guiding me through the swamp I've already traveled through in Comp I and II. That is why I don't know why I have to take this class. Seriously, I learned all about research in those classes previously mentioned. By the time you graduate High School if you don't have a grasp on your learning skills and what it takes for you to be a successful student, I would say that that person really needs to get a grip on things, that maybe they should be more in tune with themselves on not just be here for sports. A college, no matter the level, is a learning institution, and as I realize this class does help some people, I don't believe I was that enriched by this class. Sure, if I showed up more, maybe I would've gotten more out of it, but I don't think so, which is why I've sort of blown this class off.

I don't have a problem with the way this was taught, just the fact that I had to take it. I've mentioned it at least once before, I had good grades in High School, A's and B's, and already had 24 Butler hours before I graduated High School. This included at least 4 research papers, how to write a research proposal, and how to have time to manage all of those classes amongst my busy and full schedule. I think that whoever made this class mandatory should reconsider, let there be certain ways to get out of it, a benchmark GPA, X number of hours, take a test to get out of it, or maybe a letter of recommendation. I really feel like my time was wasted, and even though it was only an hour credit I could've filled that spot with something more meaningful and worthwhile towards where I think my future is moving. If someone is struggling with learning or has never taken college coursework before, then yes, this is a great program for them, but for people in situations like mine, I don't believe it to be worthwhile. It's not like it's a bad class or anything. I just wasn't enriched by it, and to me, if I can't motivate myself to go, I don't care to ponder what would have happened had I chose to attend more. I feel disappointed it worked out that way, but I really just can't motivate myself to waste my time. The way the class is presented is fine, it's just the content that lacks and is boring.

I can't really say what I would want other people to know, I just know that it didn't do much for me. So prepare to trudge through lessons you probably already know and take some time to work on the homework when you should already have a grasp on it. It's a shame though. I think that many people could get a lot out of this course, but I don't really see it being a benefactor to that many students here at Butler. Maybe I'm wrong and maybe I'm the one exception. I like to think not. I do however think that it would help many people to better understand the power of networking both internet and intranet styles are used in this class and I think that's important. I would also reccomend that they should be in tune with the way things work in cyber-space, or prepare to learn quickly. Not enough people can navigate computers well enough to function properly in today's society. I think that this course could help with that.

I can't really answer the last question. This class is the only one that I haven't cared about and didn't gain hardly anything from, if anything at all. I do feel bad saying that, but it is the absolute truth. I guess what I can take out of this is maybe forcing my will power to be able to shine when it really isn't there. To get the rock up the hill, even if the reason isn't apparent. I probably should have done that for this course. My faith has taught me that. Even if something seems pointless God has a plan for it. However, God isn't a staff at Butler and therefore I have no idea why I was required to take this course. That is what I need to get out of this class, even if I don't enjoy something I have to go anyway-like my job, which I always show up to on time and work hard, even though I loathe it. Seems to me that this class almost tries to make you have life lessons. If it was a coming of age novel it would take the very end and try to push it towards the front. It would ruin the book. You can't make someone understand a life experience without that EXPERIENCE. I think this is a good example of a school overstepping the boundaries that should be set in place. School is not a qualified substitute for life and the many experiences associated with it. Too many times do people say they know something, but really, they just read it in a book. They don't truly know it. That's what life is, a bunch of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, and we have to learn when to take what action to keep the train moving at a steady and tactful pace down the track that is life.

(title from Elton John)

One is the loneliest number that you'll ever do

(ironically case#1)

Well, step one I think, would be to get a home pregnancy test. ( I want to make a flow chart, it'd be easier...oh well) If that was positive it would be important to see a physician, or in El Dorado, they have a pregnancy center or other local clinics.
Step two: if pregnancy is positive, get in contact with that weasel of a boyfriend, and pray to God he is supportive and will amend the relationship, hopefully, he'll step up and be a man. After that, it is important to talk to both parents (FUTURE GRANDPARENTS). This site would probably be helpful to Jessica. This won't help Jessica's parents' situation, but it may help them at least come together for their daughter, who will no longer be lonely. She could talk to a school counselor. OR contact SGA for support groups. Then, depending on her and her family's and her weasel's family's religious and political views they should decide to keep the baby. maybe talk to a teacher in the nursing part of school. I work with a girl in a very similar situation to this, which is what I'm basing my answers off of. I've heard of this site, I know it's been cited somewhere before, and it appears very helpful. It's too late for purity rings, or anything like that. Basically it's just keeping the baby health and realizing that it needs to be shown love, and sometimes love means someone else may be able to better care for your offspring, here is a local adoption agency: Adoption centers of Kansas
I respect myself and my girlfriend enough to know I won't be in this situation. But unfortunately many people go through this, but they just need to realize, there are plenty of places to get answers and support from.

It's late September and I really should be back at school

My academic plan is rather simple, yet rather complex. But first, a bit of history. Starting in kindergarten I wanted to be a paleontologist, by eighth grade I was dreaming of doing Paleo-work on Mars. In high school, things changed, I was dreaming of a life as a coder for Microsoft, and one day taking the place of Bill. This all changed when I read the book Microserfs By Douglass Coupland. It illustrated the drab life a programmer leads. After that I fixed my sights on NASCAR, realizing I don't have the money to break into driving, I considered engineering and then mechanics. However, by the end of my Senior year, I realized what my calling was. Someday, I will be a NASCAR analyst, columnist or announcer on the Motor Racing Network (MRN). Yet, I am still considering going into the ministry with Motor Racing Outreach (MRO). Either way, the degree I'm seeking at ButlerCC, Mass Communications, will greatly help me. Originally I was going to earn a degree at butler by the end of the '08 Summer semester and move to North Carolina to finish a Bachelor's or Master's degree. North Carolina is where I must I go to pursue my NASCAR dream(s). But, yet again, times have changed, I'm now planning on transferring to K-State in the fall of 2008, where I will stay until I get my master's degree and/or save enough money to move to NC.
But, I digress...
I need/want to go to this seminar eventually...I believe that will help.
I found this, but it isn't racing specific. It's talking about sports anchors on various stations, but I hate pretty much all other sports outside of racing. My dream job's website is Racingone.com.
For more info on MRO click here.
While at K-State I plan to double major, in electronic communication and Public Relations.

So that's how I plan to eventually get involved with NASCAR. Who knows, in the future I may end up being an engineer after all.

(title from Rod Stewart)

Is it any wonder I'm not crazy? Is it any wonder I'm sane at all?

Time management is something I sort of struggle with. But I've always made it work, in the end. I procrastinated all the way through High School making A's and B's. So far college hasn't been any different. In case you didn't notice most of these were written with a week of the deadline. In my opinion this only prepares me for a career in or related to journalism, where deadlines are tighter than a fat man in an airliner seat. I haven't really changed anything, I'm used to staying up late and still getting things done. I know sometimes I wait too long and then have to decide weather it's better to turn in a lack luster assignment or to take a penalty (usually lose 10%) and turn in something that is better. I usually go with the latter because it, in my opinion, is at least my best efforts. Come to think of it, in speech class I always go over the time limit. I just have a busy schedule, between church, family, friends, a long-distance relationship, school and work (not to mention some time just to wind down and goof off), certainly takes a toll on me. However, I do what I can, and I'd have to say I think I do a pretty darn good job for such a full plate.
There are several resources that come in handy, however software like this digital date-book can be rather helpful. Having the support of someone can help too. If parents are involved grades tend to do better. Here is a nice article about the lack of sleep I'm not getting right now. Maybe these ideas could help me. But nonetheless, there is always something else to do within a 24hour period. Sometimes, there is just not enough time.

(Title from STYX)

"Feed the babies that don't have enough to eat...

...Shoe the children
With no shoes on their feet
House the people
Livin in the street
Oh, oh, theres a solution"

Famous words from the great Steve Miller. Fly Like an Eagle was written in 1976. This iconic and well known song describing problems that should have been taken care of long ago, hence the "time keeps on slippin'..." Miller was saying 'get it done'. Yet these issues, of child abuse/deprivation, poverty and homelessness are still a cause for concern in modern America. This is an issue that has arisen through the current Presidential campaigns. Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.-D) has an experienced past, as he worked in inner Chicago for years helping the less fortunate neighborhoods. Read more here.
THIS is why it is a serious issue, even though the article is kind of dated. It is our job to help our fellow Americans. Those who are not as financially fortunate as others could still donate time at local organizations such as community centers or The Lord's Diner in Wichita.
The time to help is now, the time to help is then, the time to help will be always. Everyday someone will need your help. Just donate your old shoes, pick up an extra package of Ramen Noodles to donate. Give a blanket to the local shelter. Maybe, you could just give a few hours of your time to lend a helping hand and help those less fortunate know that there is still HOPE for them.
From one of the most powerful, moving, and uniting speeches in modern political history "The Audacity of Hope" - Sen. Barack Obama:

"Hope -- Hope in the face of difficulty. Hope in the face of uncertainty. The audacity of hope!"

Read, listen or watch the full speech here: American Rhetoric

People Livin' In Competition/ All I want is to have my peace of mind.

Why do people feel the need to cheat? Much of that, I believe, can be attributed to the focus for everyone to be the best. I believe this to be true because of the pressure to graduate with straight A's or as Valedictorian. What happens when someone notices several people with the same report? THIS!
That same link also shows how it can affect someone outside of school too. In addition to that here is one from a Psychiatrist, who could potentially lose his business across the pond.
Plagiarism, however, is rather easy to avoid. Here is a nice safe guide from Purdue University. Which basically states that you just need to give credit where credit is due. Even with easy guides as such. I think Mr. Clark has a nice idea in his article hear, where he basically calls for a better more universal definition.
I chose the title of this (of course coming from the band Boston) because I think that's why people plagiarize, they're trying to compete. However, if one should just do their best and take the peace of mind that they know they won't get into trouble, in the end it will work out better. My High School English teacher told us the story of one of her husband's friends:

This man lied about having a degree and was hired by a company, that didn't check,when they asked him to go to school, that the company would pay for, to get his master's degree...he had to come clean.Obviously he lost his job.

It will get you in the end. All you really need to do is have enough self-respect to trust your own thoughts, ideas, and research; and, when you need someone else's opinion, you just need to make sure you give credit where credit is due.

Kicking around on a piece of ground in your home town...

The biggest for me in the last year is that I'm here, here at home. I'm moving on, next fall, for sure. My friends have parted, they've got a jump on things, but I'm about to leap. It's going to be a leap of faith, into a new region, a new time zone, a new life. All this, just to chase my dream, it's what I want to do, what I'm going to do. I'd love to be able to be there now, but I'm not, I believe God has me here until then for certain reasons. This time, my new college, whatever that may be, is going to be different than a small Community College in a dusty oil-boom Kansas town. The engines roar to life, as I hope my dream flourishes into reality. Skeptics have questioned it, I don't care, their doubt and cynicism just exasperates my drive to capture it. So, I don't doubt I've faced some change going to college (more free time), but I haven't really had to cope with it or worry about it. What I am going to have to cope with, is this bigger change, just over the horizon. The time has come and the decision has been made, in 365 days from now, I'll be somewhere in North Carolina, it's calling my name, it's the captor of my dream. I'd have to say the thing that bugs me the most is trying to get new friends out there. It's just something I guess I have to sacrifice to get where I want to go.


(Title from PINK FLOYD)