tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1137613839061184612024-02-19T11:14:39.958-08:00Simply DefinedSimply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-84768265116820575832018-05-01T08:43:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:47:10.212-07:00your workspace should be a space that works<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTZy9B5QeoaDTrlFVVxTkMvG0KfyYbrvOrINOIR2hGFhLljR7dzkYXXYWSOL52lWObj-ATbZ7w4oG4PIkek8oG3StMzuOl6i1DHFRrE-oMWtYjnE-VxWbbrU7y9onoCgYuOT7FNPaJaI/s1600/Person+with+LapTop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTZy9B5QeoaDTrlFVVxTkMvG0KfyYbrvOrINOIR2hGFhLljR7dzkYXXYWSOL52lWObj-ATbZ7w4oG4PIkek8oG3StMzuOl6i1DHFRrE-oMWtYjnE-VxWbbrU7y9onoCgYuOT7FNPaJaI/s640/Person+with+LapTop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
In my mind, one of the most critical components for success is being in the right workspace. Whether you're a student needing a space to study; an artist needing a studio to paint; or a writer needing a space to write, your environment has to be in line with your needs.<br />
<br />
<br />
A few years ago, I was working in a multi-functional space that served as my office, reception, <br />
storage and an occasional faculty lounge. Located on the building's first floor there were two ceiling high windows that had been covered up with foam board to protect the glass from wear and tear. So, like Tantalus who couldn't eat the fruit above his head or drink the water before him, I spent my days dreaming of sunshine that couldn't be seen. I was miserable. My office was over-crowded at times, unorganized, and lacked charm. I couldn't even keep plants alive in such a sad little place. <br />
<br />
I personally need warm light (preferably natural but anything besides the awful overhead lamps that are found in most work spaces will do); occasional quiet and solitude; a place for my tea or coffee; pictures of my husband and son; and something green to make my workspace a space that works. <br />
<br />
One of my challenges right now is I'm getting ready to start a doctoral program - exciting right? - and will need to find the physical and head space to do my work at home. My husband, a writer by trade, has always seemed to manage. But he was also happy spending years holed up in our various NYC apartments, writing in a little bit of real estate we called "the study" or working at the kitchen table. <br />
<br />
What about you? What kind of work do you do and what kind of space - ideal space- do you need to be your most creative, efficient, and/or productive?Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-78894488287169517362018-04-10T16:35:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:56:38.103-07:00the gap year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZElOX7Xb-PaPepJKQIZrtu0GJpeTVe7z6joLkLv7szFHyLXpqXJgsLYsMuQO_wGpEWzCc_ZowdfuqjVppnC9AhOACzAGUyNJfdqA4i9dQZku8ZMNpU4H-mjD4pp_7_AjdfnuG8sHwYo/s1600/Shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="500" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZElOX7Xb-PaPepJKQIZrtu0GJpeTVe7z6joLkLv7szFHyLXpqXJgsLYsMuQO_wGpEWzCc_ZowdfuqjVppnC9AhOACzAGUyNJfdqA4i9dQZku8ZMNpU4H-mjD4pp_7_AjdfnuG8sHwYo/s640/Shoes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It's no secret that finding a job, even with a college diploma in hand, is tough. That's why I often encourage recent college grads to consider a "gap year."<br />
<br />
The term "gap year" usually describes the time that high school students take before enrolling in a college or university (also something I recommend and will likely touch upon in a future posts.) But given the current economic landscape the "gap year" shouldn't be reserved for the 18 year old. In fact, it's not a bad idea for the recent college grad as well.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Why a gap year? </span><br />
<ol>
<li>If you're a college graduate you may still lack the skills and experiences which many employers need. </li>
<li>Though the college experience may have given you a better idea of <i>who</i> you are you may not know <i>what </i>to do with your life. </li>
<li>And finally, the number one answer to why a gap year...because you can. That's right. This might be one of the few opportunities in your life to work without the burden of significant responsibility. Five years post-graduation you are much more likely to have people (a partner, children, aging parents etc.) that depend on you. But at this time in your life, you likely have fewer ties that bind.</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;">But what would I do for a whole year?</span><br />
During the year, you should accomplish three goals. Let's call them the "triple threat."<br />
<br />
<i><b>Experience</b></i><br />
This is your chance to get the skill-set you're lacking. Even if you have to wait tables so you can start paying off those college loans, find something that will give you valuable professional experience. <br />
<br />
<i><b>Expand</b></i><br />
Expand your professional network. Make a list of everyone you know and make note of what they do, then start sending emails and setting up appointments. Meet with someone new every week. Even if you're not interested in <i>what </i>they do, find out <i>why</i> they do it and <i>how</i> they got where they are today. The goal is to further define your own aspirations and eventually break into the job market. Google "informational interviewing" for some insight into the questions worth asking. <br />
<br />
<i><b>Explore</b></i><br />
I don't care how many diversity courses you took in college, chances are there is still a lot of the world you don't know anything about. Take this year to explore. If you have the resources to travel, then absolutely that's what you should do. But even if you can't travel you should start seeing your home town through different eyes. Visit schools, clinics and shelters. Volunteer at the VA or the food pantry. Go to foreign language films, dance concerts, and heritage events. Attend service at the local mosque, synagogue, catholic cathedral and buddhist temple. Be vegan for a week. Do whatever you can, to explore different cultures, ethnicity, lifestyles, and faiths in an effort to broaden your world view.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Where do I start?</span><b> </b><br />
There are a few organizations that really specialize in the gap year (or years) experience. <a href="http://www.cityyear.org/default_ektid22283.aspx">City Year</a> and <a href="http://www.teachforamerica.org/">Teach for America</a> are two examples. Or maybe you want to spend some time abroad, in which case teaching English through something like the <a href="http://www.jetprogramme.org/">Jet Programme</a> might be an option. But even if it has to be something closer to home, the point is to give yourself at least one year to do something you'll likely never give yourself permission to do again.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-12531216327026152002018-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:47:02.404-07:00the internship: not just for college kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6lcZSHcbltZBO4Zm3gkadjqGKjeGfFH_LKaJLpTZabp_5Yn7MVXhcUkJaXxXg-hdj45l-mK6zvHjhyof_BWv8lWurms-cg80TmnRFHh5xQrxevxJsoYZFWrP40tS1HOFkncTLAt1ZDk/s1600/Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6lcZSHcbltZBO4Zm3gkadjqGKjeGfFH_LKaJLpTZabp_5Yn7MVXhcUkJaXxXg-hdj45l-mK6zvHjhyof_BWv8lWurms-cg80TmnRFHh5xQrxevxJsoYZFWrP40tS1HOFkncTLAt1ZDk/s640/Photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
One of the proposed answers to wide-spread unemployment in the United States is an expanded <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/18/georgia-works-obama-plan-jobs-paul-ryan_n_968439.html">Georgia Works</a> program. Georgia Works allows businesses to put the long-term unemployed to work for free. The business goal is obvious but there is also an added bonus for the unemployed. The time "back at work" gives people an opportunity to continue collecting benefits while they develop new skills and broaden their network. It's an internship program for adults. <br />
<br />
College students often ask, "Which office do I visit if I want an internship?" And though most colleges and universities have a career placement or development office, the truth is that anyone (even the non-college student) can get an internship. It just takes initiative, commitment and compromise. <br />
<br />
So what exactly is an internship? I think an internship is any experience that is designed to expose or train an otherwise unskilled worker for a particular job or industry. For example, in 2006 I was considering transitioning from college advising to a career in arts administration. I had strong ties to the New York theatre community, had a genuine interest in marketing and strategic communications, and was ready for something new. At the same time, my place of employment was offering a 4-day summer work schedule, meaning I would have either Mondays or Fridays off for a ten-week period. My husband, a writer and actor, had close ties with one of the leading professional theatre companies so I asked if he would connect me with the associate producer. Within a few days I was working as a marketing intern.<br />
<br />
Now keep in mind I had a full-time career and had been out of school for years, but because I expressed genuine interest, commitment, and willingness to work for free, the company brought me in without hesitation. <br />
Now I ended up <i>not</i> making a career transition. But, I did significantly broaden my network. And when I had an opportunity to move into a performing-arts centric position in my given field, I brought a unique skill-set to the table. <br />
<br />
Sure it helps, but you don't have to be connected with a college to get an internship. Check out company websites, professional associations, and job boards. Talk to your network of friends, family, and colleagues. Send emails, make phone calls, and find the experience you need to take your career to the next level.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-71510167142224852162018-03-31T04:00:00.000-07:002018-05-04T09:06:14.891-07:00you, the uncollege student, who's in your corner?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HCW_k8wRrWCUXvPm76jiW0iBKDBtC8jnBtAwxFxARzleZBt4FbLIqJLGEUYH2y4mVDHwr_uTNz56wSHz5aRcAfiChCMPiSGm6C5vCtBMvrQlkPW-QWL2jjysOiP2PDkVS32iWXpVGh0/s1600/Coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HCW_k8wRrWCUXvPm76jiW0iBKDBtC8jnBtAwxFxARzleZBt4FbLIqJLGEUYH2y4mVDHwr_uTNz56wSHz5aRcAfiChCMPiSGm6C5vCtBMvrQlkPW-QWL2jjysOiP2PDkVS32iWXpVGh0/s640/Coffee.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
If you haven't watched <a href="http://simply-defined.blogspot.com/2011/10/and-today-from-ted-talks.html">Steven Berlin Johnson's lecture</a> on where good ideas come from, you should. He talks about the environment that is necessary to allow good ideas (aka innovation) to thrive. Listening to it for the first time, I immediately thought about how this idea impacts the uncollege movement. If one argues that you can replicate, if not better, the actual college experience outside of the college classroom, then they must take into consideration the impact of community on intellectual discourse. If scientists actually come up with the "big ideas" around the team table rather behind the lab bench, then the "student" pursuing an unorthodox learning experience must ensure they find a way to get around that table.<br />
<br />
So how do you do that? How do you foster an environment that allows for <i>that</i> level of intellectual discourse. Because though I have many students who would say otherwise, I have just as many who see their college experience as their one opportunity to ask the big questions, seek solutions, and find inspiration.<br />
<br />
One answer is to find mentors (academics, writers, entrepreneurs, scientists) who will embrace your unschooling approach. And this may not be easy. Keep in mind you are challenging everything they stand for. These are people who have perhaps dedicated their lives to research and academe. But if you can prove you're not a hack...you might just get someone in your corner.<br />
<br />
So, if you're someone who has either decided to "stop out" of school or you're embracing the uncollege movement, how are you creating an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and innovation? And who is it that's in your corner?Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-12642614708970378692018-03-19T07:01:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:44:19.156-07:00when to compromise<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<i style="color: #134f5c;">For everything you have missed, you have gained something else, and for everything you gain, you lose something else. </i><span style="color: #134f5c;">~ Ralph Waldo Emerson </span></div>
<br />
I've spent the last twenty years in a marriage of give and take. Both my husband and I are highly ambitious and during each stage of our marriage and careers we've managed to create new goals and benchmarks. And, it hasn't always been easy. After all, our goals don't necessarily coincide. My interest in finishing a doctorate right as we were planning a cross-country move, or his interest in checking out the west coast scene as I was taking advantage of new professional opportunities in New York didn't necessarily work out. The truth is, going through life two-by-two is great but decision-making for two can be a headache. <br />
<br />
Relationships aren't the only catalyst for compromise. At any point in your life, you may be faced with the following decisions:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="color: black;">
salary vs. experience</div>
<div style="color: black;">
longer commute vs. time with your family</div>
<div style="color: black;">
out-of-state job offer vs. growing roots</div>
<div style="color: black;">
school vs. work</div>
<div style="color: black;">
a home you love vs. a home you can afford</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQnZeBMordhCbyU773BEsSxumDMeN77JigiF8_3G-yhLbSKTBkrpOmES9fAqXbecITAJcSfWnTDGSQovImB3ypI5d4NkBwFVXm94aIfDrvraWSxnIj192udkSZypdz7grcwsOw5GsUjU/s1600/Packing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQnZeBMordhCbyU773BEsSxumDMeN77JigiF8_3G-yhLbSKTBkrpOmES9fAqXbecITAJcSfWnTDGSQovImB3ypI5d4NkBwFVXm94aIfDrvraWSxnIj192udkSZypdz7grcwsOw5GsUjU/s1600/Packing.jpg" /></a></div>
In many cases, the decision doesn't have to be an either/or. Rather, you can find a place, where you're comfortable somewhere in the middle. <br />
<br />
Some will argue that you should never compromise; that doing so is an abandonment of self. But that's unrealistic. At some point, for you to maintain your relationships, lifestyle, integrity, security - something or somebody's got to give. So the questions are: <i>what</i> and <i>when</i> are you willing to compromise?<br />
<br />
And, there are no right or wrong answers, but again it comes down to knowing your values. If you don't know who you are and what you want, you'll have a difficult time making the right decisions for you and the people you love.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-43894205711768473892018-02-17T04:14:00.000-08:002018-05-04T09:13:06.629-07:00real-time decision making<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DJ4AHSZsE_MxEflsiprclzycY1fGXiPNXkthWzNuU3f3T0lXUZeLoQfN2q-3ctLH3aphvxCMJCF3CiJ0J1DKG2H0X9osMtwLz88RkpptiV5rUPNRR2aZLG731Aq2qzDGntpjz1DVWj8/s1600/Cozy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DJ4AHSZsE_MxEflsiprclzycY1fGXiPNXkthWzNuU3f3T0lXUZeLoQfN2q-3ctLH3aphvxCMJCF3CiJ0J1DKG2H0X9osMtwLz88RkpptiV5rUPNRR2aZLG731Aq2qzDGntpjz1DVWj8/s640/Cozy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I'm the last person to discount the importance of future planning, but you must be careful not to let anxiety about the future paralyze your ability to move forward. You must learn to practice real-time decision making. It's simple: when faced with a critical decision recognize that you can't anticipate how the outcome will impact you in a year, but rather ask yourself, "how will the decision I make impact me (my career, family etc.) today?"<br />
<br />
It's not as easy as it sounds. We are accustom to weighing the pros and cons; considering every outcome. But we were never gifted a crystal ball and without one, we can do little more than take a leap of faith. We must trust that ongoing real-time decision making will in fact have a cumulative impact on our life's design. ( i.e. a good decision today will lead to a good decision tomorrow and so forth.)Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-71784641786251519002018-01-10T00:00:00.000-08:002018-05-04T08:47:25.587-07:00busy is the new okay - which isn't okay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSoxkTxV37VgGb10Lu_n7-vUqXUk_XhzRJX5a5ZsbBz_lr2g-TakZNZinuUGWeds1FHET6br0mZ5Dkim-cFWWecWSsZn988J1EwgM7nyIqko_fgqwBMrkSIl7a4pWl_Zjby2WCPK_MzQ/s1600/ASimpleLifeCup.jg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSoxkTxV37VgGb10Lu_n7-vUqXUk_XhzRJX5a5ZsbBz_lr2g-TakZNZinuUGWeds1FHET6br0mZ5Dkim-cFWWecWSsZn988J1EwgM7nyIqko_fgqwBMrkSIl7a4pWl_Zjby2WCPK_MzQ/s640/ASimpleLifeCup.jg.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
I've done it too. I've walked into a meeting and had someone at the table say, "Angie, it's good to see you. How are things going?" And I've sighed dramatically and perhaps shook my head side to side before answering, "Busy. So busy." And perhaps in that moment, I'm not feigning exhaustion. Perhaps my kid crawled into my bed at four o'clock that morning and decided to lie his superman pajamed body horizontally across my entire pillow. Perhaps I spent the last two hours before dawn sleeping on the floor with only the hand towel I pulled, eyes half closed, from the yet to be folded <br />
laundry basket to keep me warm. Perhaps I sat next to the community gossip on the bus, and heard far to many half truths about my neighbors for what seemed like a never-ending commute. Perhaps I walked into my office with a strategic plan in hand only to be usurped by a student in tears over his cheating boyfriend and another in arms over the A- on what she swears was a near perfect paper. (And perhaps I spent an hour explaining that the "minus" was representative of the "near" in "near perfect.") And perhaps I walked into that meeting, with no sense of the agenda and having lost my pen. But even so, "Busy. So Busy." is not the answer to my well meaning colleague's question.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've always disliked the word, "okay." Is it more or less than good? Should I assume my work-mate has too much on her plate; that my husband had a rough day with our son; that my friend has lost yet another job? I never know. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I far prefer it to "Busy." Busy is not an answer to how is one doing. It's just the lazy default response. Yes, you may be busy. You may even be too busy - but that alone doesn't dictate your mood. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently I have tried to answer the "how are you?" question with at least some degree of sincerity: great, good, tired, excited, nervous. And at the same time, I'm trying not to wear the state of "being busy" like a sandwich board. Because what does being busy, or at least too busy, really say about my life other than I'm inefficient, unorganized, and overworked? And why should I advertise those things? And, if I'm too busy to read, sit in my garden, watch a movie with my husband or play superheroes with my son - then the answer to, "Angie, how are you?" should probably be "not okay."</div>
Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-54514623834039358932017-12-27T07:21:00.000-08:002018-05-04T09:12:37.247-07:00philosopher's physics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0gE2Z8yhNGHtOUKxLFtfBJdWk6BuhwSSmWCrezc1M7yPaHPiry5yAa-aEOrKkBAKwc4oscFPVRcc_FCOVcM2FzKZ7QEUWPXYvg284HPpLesU_NOIxzD-MLTDZRutLzH5_VmO4bI9buU/s1600/I+am+love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0gE2Z8yhNGHtOUKxLFtfBJdWk6BuhwSSmWCrezc1M7yPaHPiry5yAa-aEOrKkBAKwc4oscFPVRcc_FCOVcM2FzKZ7QEUWPXYvg284HPpLesU_NOIxzD-MLTDZRutLzH5_VmO4bI9buU/s1600/I+am+love.jpg" /></a></div>
I have a guilty pleasure - a thing for novels involving religious intrigue, you know the kind: Mary Magdalene was the wife of Jesus and the true first pope kind of thing. Not only does this kind of fiction make for great summer reading, but the genre usually introduces us to a historical character (DaVinci, Dante, Galileo to name a few) charged with keeping the Catholic Church's secrets. And through their stories, we are reminded of the remarkable toolkit such men had to help them navigate life. These safe-keepers were "Renaissance Men." They were poets, painters, astronomers, philosophers, musicians and mathematicians in one. What a foreign concept! After all men and women are rarely afforded such knowledge in the 21st century. <br />
<br />
Today's colleges and universities, even those built on the foundation of liberal arts, are designed to educate masters in their fields. Not only are students often asked to major in a particular discipline but general education is presented like a buffet menu: pick any two.<br />
<br />
I think back on my own undergraduate education when I met my science requirement with a Physical Anthropology course. I adored the class and my instructor, but wondered, "What's the point? What does this have to do with my actual interests and goals?"<br />
<br />
If only someone had helped me make a connection. Perhaps, instead of sitting in this New York coffee shop, I'd be off the coast of Madagascar leading an excavation. After all 20 years later, I discovered a genuine passion for the role of the performing arts in ancient and/or tribal religion. What an awesome thing to have uncovered as a twenty-year old theatre major. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, there are folks out there, folks with more letters after their names than me, that aim to re-introduce the renaissance man (and woman) into our working world. A few years ago I met a faculty member, an astronomer by trade, who created a science liberal arts course that was designed to marry the disciplines on his college campus. The course tackled questions such as , "How are astronomy, physics, philosophy and religion intertwined?" "How does a keen understanding of science help inform the artist's work; and vice versa?"<br />
<br />
The course took years to make its way into the curriculum and was then balked by biology, chemistry and premed students (and in some cases their faculty mentors and advisors). After all these students were taking enough science as it was and didn't have time to take what I heard called "philosopher's physics".<br />
<br />
But is there not more value in witnessing the marriage of seemingly unique disciplines than to have a base understanding of a particular subject? After all your every day undergraduate who asks, "What the hell does Latin have to do with my future as an account manager?" has a point. And it's the job of the college educator (faculty, advisors, resident assistants - everyone - to help students connect the dots.) Even so, their jobs would be a hell of a lot easier if the relationships between the disciplines and between careers and a liberal arts education were explicit.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-24863470308936140602017-11-23T05:27:00.000-08:002018-05-04T09:23:23.034-07:00transcripts tell a story<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIY9udZs0GAR0vhi6w-qg4MhNFpn34oMvpvxDsCxWHlIqm1FiEUZB9SZoykOA3dTd0xEzSG7vDrE13u2WW9X1nsqalczN8A7fiKS9GEb_zqkESTCZgSAZuLBAqxmtu1-LyssrOsx0ONNo/s1600/Decoded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIY9udZs0GAR0vhi6w-qg4MhNFpn34oMvpvxDsCxWHlIqm1FiEUZB9SZoykOA3dTd0xEzSG7vDrE13u2WW9X1nsqalczN8A7fiKS9GEb_zqkESTCZgSAZuLBAqxmtu1-LyssrOsx0ONNo/s640/Decoded.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">📷 <a href="https://unsplash.com/@dylan_nolte">Dylan Nolte</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can't count the number of conversations I've had over the years with students who want to "change" their transcript. Most have a list of somewhat compelling reasons why that withdrawal or failing grade doesn't represent who they are as a student, much less an individual. Many are concerned by what <i>someone</i> will think when they see their grades in print.<br />
<br />
My first question is, "Who is this elusive <i>someone</i>?" In my fifteen years as a college administrator I've been asked to show my transcript to an employer once. That's right, once. With the majority of my jobs (held at five different colleges and universities) I merely had to show proof of my degrees. Now, of course employers have a great deal of interest in how a student performs in college, it's why I recommend students with high grade point averages include the GPA on their resumes, but rarely is your average employer going to study your transcript. <br />
<br />
Now, to be fair some industries may be more compelled to look at the transcript than others. I've heard from graduates and college career offices alike that finance firms are <i>very</i> interested in a student's academic success and progress. And that a GPA can make or break a student's chances at getting an internship or entry-level job. But I guarantee you the majority of students I see are not clambering for finance jobs. <br />
<br />
In many cases students identify the elusive <i>someone</i> as a representative on a graduate school admissions committee. But again, despite the number of students that tell me that their next step is graduate school, I have to wonder how many really decide to go that route.<br />
<br />
So again the question is <i>who</i> are we concerned is going to see this transcript we so desperately want to change.<br />
<br />
It's also important for students to realize that a transcript tells a story. If I look at my college transcript today (as yellowed and frayed with age as it may be), I can immediately pinpoint the timing of personal highs and lows in my life. Ah yes, this is the semester I broke up with my high school sweetheart. Ah yes, this is the semester I studied the work of Federica Garcia Lorca (and I've never been the same since). Ah yes, this is the semester I met the love of my life. Just as I can't erase those experiences, I can't erase the manifestation of those experiences in the classroom. <br />
<br />
So kiddos guess what, you can't change your transcript it is what it is. What you can do is either a) stop fretting over it or b) think about the story you want it to tell.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-41570002951176197452017-11-08T05:41:00.000-08:002018-05-04T08:55:50.506-07:00money talks<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRECZX7xSMc3TiKZXuN8asC2PsDj4zOC6b2gCtUd0pEdII-W9_VUQI6fLLPMhIIV2Z_4D3lLIMgTIQ9i7B8PVi00vV26SOY47b7INzgUezkHO6ETCF93r-xS-ap_fblyPM_Jmgu_Y0bQ/s1600/MoneyTalks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZRECZX7xSMc3TiKZXuN8asC2PsDj4zOC6b2gCtUd0pEdII-W9_VUQI6fLLPMhIIV2Z_4D3lLIMgTIQ9i7B8PVi00vV26SOY47b7INzgUezkHO6ETCF93r-xS-ap_fblyPM_Jmgu_Y0bQ/s640/MoneyTalks.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">📷 <a href="https://unsplash.com/@sharonmccutcheon">Sharon McCutcheon</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We've all heard the phrase, "Money talks." I, for one, find it a little obnoxious as it immediately creates an image of a well-manicured man in a pinstripe suit dropping hundreds of dollars on frivolous luxuries and over-priced toys. Movies like <i>Wall Street</i> make my skin crawl - if only because we witness the implications of misdirected greed and ambition on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
But putting all that aside, money does indeed talk. In fact, how we spend money speaks volumes about what's important to us; what we value. And, realizing this, is radically changing<i> my</i> relationship with money. I've never over-spent (in fact quite the opposite) but I've never felt comfortable earning and saving either. And, as a result, I've never invited prosperity into my life. Sure, my husband and I have always had more than enough, even while living in one of the most expensive places in the world. But I think it's because we've been afraid of failure. Afraid to be the guys from Salt Lake City, Utah who couldn't make it in the bad big apple. For many years, I rarely took risks which meant there was little chance of failure. <br />
<br />
But I've found, over the last few months, my relationship with money has changed. I understand that spending money and more importantly earning money isn't inherently a bad thing. I should embrace my potential and steer towards prosperous opportunities. And I should do this with one thing in mind: what I value - love, family, loyalty, integrity, beauty and compassion - can and will be reflected in how I choose to spend (or don't spend) the money I earn. <br />
<br />
What about you? What does your relationship with money say about you?Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-58172717222582297312017-11-08T05:25:00.000-08:002018-05-04T08:50:21.266-07:00you have to find time before you can manage it<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4eEJSLf00BqEaMzk6_2yQ_nUmzYxdknfumqrFMOBqtg5n62GhIm-MWuh5H030icgBnhyNHr-oqgqk2Pf0Pxc_0AGI0XueuZgcFIh8agEMbaJIJkm5CTgNWovGNUme1AoUNWspxmRq2c/s1600/WorkHarder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="500" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4eEJSLf00BqEaMzk6_2yQ_nUmzYxdknfumqrFMOBqtg5n62GhIm-MWuh5H030icgBnhyNHr-oqgqk2Pf0Pxc_0AGI0XueuZgcFIh8agEMbaJIJkm5CTgNWovGNUme1AoUNWspxmRq2c/s640/WorkHarder.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">📷 <a href="https://unsplash.com/@whitfieldjordan">Jordan Whitfield</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The fact is you can't manage time that doesn't exist. Over the years I've had countless conversations with individuals that are spiraling out of control because, from their perspective, they just don't manage their time well. And in some cases they're right. Time-vacuums like television, social media, clutter and poor-decision making are taking up far too much real estate on their calendars. But in some cases, quite frankly, people just have too much on their plate.<br />
<br />
Before you can successfully manage your time, you must first ensure that you have enough time to manage. Which requires you to do a little self-assessment.<br />
<br />
Ask yourself the following questions:<br />
<br />
<i><b>How do I think I spend my time? </b></i><br />
Question number one requires some brainstorming. Take five minutes and write down the things, activities, people, problems that take up time in your day-to-day life. Try to be specific. Don't just write down "work" but rather the actual activities at work that take up your time (i.e. answering email; attending meetings; returning calls)<br />
<br />
<i><b>How should I spend my time? </b></i><br />
Next, take five minutes and brainstorm the most important things, activities, people and problems that should take up your time. This isn't a list of what you would necessarily like to do, but rather the things you need to do to be effective in your various roles. <br />
<br />
<i><b>How do I really spend my time?</b></i><br />
Answering this question is going to take a bit more heavy-lifting. Over a one-week period I challenge you to log your time-spent. Leave nothing out. For example, on Wednesday nights, my husband and I watch <i>Modern Family </i>- that's a half hour that should make its way into my log. <br />
<br />
<i><b>So, where's the disconnect?</b></i><br />
Why do this exercise? It's important that you compare what you perceive (how you <i>think</i> you spend your time) with the truth (how you<i> really</i> spend your time). Once doing so, you need to weigh it all against what you value most (how you <i>should</i> spend your time). There may be things that are taking up serious amounts of real estate on your calendar that don't need to be there. Likewise, you may realize that there are activities or priorities for which you've left little room. If you find that the latter is true, you may need to actually<i> find</i> time, rather than manage it more effectively. You have to make some tough decisions. What gives? What can you evict from your calendar to make room for what's most important?Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-9848156389578146002017-11-02T05:58:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:20:59.226-07:00mentors: simply definedEarlier this week, I challenge the uncollege student (and others looking to "stop" or "drop" out of school) to think about how they will create an environment that fosters intellectual discourse and innovation. And one of my suggestions (though not explicit) was to identify and connect with mentors. So that brings up the question - what is a mentor?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="color: black;">A </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/mentor">mentor</a><span style="color: black;"> is defined as "</span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">a</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">wise</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">and</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">trusted</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">counselor</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: black; cursor: default;">or</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span class="hwc" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><span style="color: black;">teacher" or "an influential senior sponsor or supporter." And it would seem that the college environment is a natural place to find such a person. But even students actively engaged in pursuing a degree (undergraduate or otherwise) struggle to identify and connect with mentors. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="hwc" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><span style="color: black;">The first thing I would say is, if you have to ask someone to be your mentor - you're already heading in the wrong direction. The mentor/mentee relationship should be organic. It is through mutual trust and understanding that such a relationship develops and thrives. I think back to my own undergraduate career and my first academic mentor; a professional actor who taught theater courses as an adjunct professor at the University of Utah. He was (and is) a smart, creative, and compassionate man who embraced teaching with the same degree of passion that he embraced life. I never left his classroom uninspired. But in all the years I studied, I never once asked him to be my mentor. That said, he was almost always the first person I turned to for academic support and guidance.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="hwc" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><span style="color: black;">I am shocked with how many college students approach the end of their college career with no one they can confidently turn to for advising and letters of recommendation. These are students who showed up, did their work, but never took an active role in their own learning.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="hwc" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><span style="color: black;">Everyone needs a support group, a sounding board, someone (really someone<i>s</i>) who has been down this road before, to help lead the way. Who is that for you? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="hwc" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;"><span style="color: black;">If you're in school: whose office hours can your visit? From whom have you taken a class, that you can study with again? Alternatively, if you're a young professional or trying to create an independent learning experience, who can you call today and invite to join you for a cup of coffee? Who's advice has been sound? Who's doing what you'd like to do a year, five years, ten years from now?</span></span>Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-8443438481610349932017-10-15T03:23:00.000-07:002018-05-04T13:27:44.114-07:00free-write the things you love<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPtWehIuZ903mKxqgy_swY7oCL0xicXqNBABm-tk9jvbZN-KvcvSGGGM4ZNnKBvLmXlbu7yHQ7Z6jQCdG01cL7e7P57tKmUdrRY0ZlBHGS4OoN0LktFIyS_x1DKtbPenL_J_NGehgb5k/s1600/Write.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPtWehIuZ903mKxqgy_swY7oCL0xicXqNBABm-tk9jvbZN-KvcvSGGGM4ZNnKBvLmXlbu7yHQ7Z6jQCdG01cL7e7P57tKmUdrRY0ZlBHGS4OoN0LktFIyS_x1DKtbPenL_J_NGehgb5k/s640/Write.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">📷<a href="https://unsplash.com/@bradneathery" target="_blank"> Brad Neathery</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few years ago I came across <a href="http://www.stylestatement.com/">The Style Statement</a>: a wonderful life design process with the end goal of creating a two-word statement to guide your lifestyle choices. The statement speaks largely to your aesthetic, what you love, how you define beauty, and what helps you not merely survive but thrive. My style statement is <i>Composed Grace </i>and I often refer to those simple words when making decisions.<br />
<br />
One of the most valuable exercises in The Style Statement process is the free-write you use to discover what they call your foundation word. And I encourage you to go through a similar process which I've outlined below:<br />
<br />
<b>free-write the things you love</b><br />
(as inspired by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316067164?ie=UTF8&tag=wwwcarrieandd-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=03160"><i>Style Statement: Live By Your Own Design</i></a>)<br />
<ol>
<li>Set your stopwatch (or smart phone, or iPad) for five minutes. </li>
<li>Using only words and short phrases begin writing down every<i>thing</i> you love. </li>
<li>After five minutes, circle and highlight words that have the most resonance. </li>
</ol>
A couple of notes. <b>List every<i>thing </i>not just every<i>one</i> you love</b>. So yes, you may write family, or your child's name, but realize that those things will be right there on the same list as peanut butter. And, that's okay. Also, if this is a true free-write, your words and phrases will likely be disconnected. Again, that's okay.<br />
<br />
Still confused? Take a look at a subset of my original list on the <a href="http://simply-defined.blogspot.com/p/things-i-love.html"><i>Things I Love</i></a> tab. <br />
<br />
So what's the goal? The goal is to think about what drives you to do the things you do. Or, even more simply, the goal is to create a list of what gets you out of bed in the morning. Because once you know that, you can create a lifestyle that feeds those motivations, interests, and dreams.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-11748096712604860332017-10-12T05:03:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:27:21.860-07:00anything worth doing is worth doing wellA few days ago I was at an event, sitting around a table with fellow educators and college administrators; people who I had just met. And as new colleagues do, we began introducing ourselves; talking a little bit about our lives. At some point, I mentioned that I was married to an actor/screenwriter and before I could say another word, someone at the table said, "You know I've been thinking about doing a little acting work myself." I wasn't surprised. I rarely mention my husband's or even my own experiences without someone "jumping on the bandwagon." But, I gave the gentleman the benefit out of the doubt and said, "Well, I always love chatting with an artist, what's <i>your</i> story." Turns out the guy had a degree in computer science, had been working in information technology for years, and had from what I could tell zero acting or performing arts experience.<br />
<br />
I said, "Well, I could connect you with some wonderful teachers or studios in the city, if you're looking to take a few classes." His response was the kicker. He asked, most earnestly, "Do you think that's really necessary?"<br />
<br />
We live in the age of celebrity. Watch ten minutes of cable television and you'll see that very little talent is required to get your fifteen minutes (or three season run) of fame. And I worry about the impact this phenomenon has on the professional performing arts. People are under the impression that you can just wake up one morning and become an actor, writer, singer etc.<br />
<br />
Keep reading <b>Simply Defined</b> and you'll soon realize that I am very pro career assessment and transition. I have no problem with people taking a 180 degree shift and pursuing something radically different than what they've done before. But <i>any </i>shift requires thought, preparation, and intention. I can't wake up tomorrow and start doing a little computer engineering work any more than this gentleman could (or at least should) do a little acting work.<br />
<br />
The lessons are these:<br />
#1 Don't take your interests lightly, because I guarantee you that someone takes those same interests quite seriously. And she will run circles around you when it comes to execution. <br />
#2 As the old saying goes, "Anything worth doing, is worth doing well."Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-85406688120125892392017-10-03T03:22:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:32:45.200-07:00know your valuesYou have to know what you value before making any major life decision. But, I find that people become really uncomfortable around the word "value." There's this idea that some values have more weight than others. Many think they should value things like faith, family, peace, and the common good. Some worry they will be judged should they admit that stability and reward actually drive their decision-making. <br />
<br />
An important thing to realize is that one value doesn't cancel another. It's possible to value both money and family. And in fact, one might argue that valuing money or financial stability, is how you best express your commitment to family. <br />
<br />
My heart breaks just a little as I head out the door every week-day morning. I love my work, but of course I would prefer to take my son to toddler time at the New York Public Library, or join him and my husband for croissants and pour-over coffee at our neighborhood hangout. But the way I've framed my decision to work outside the home (because yes it is a conscious decision) is that it's one of the many ways I tell my family that "I love them." <br />
<br />
My point being; there is nothing wrong with financial stability or even prosperity being your primary value. But, you need to know that it is before you make critical life decisions. <br />
<br />
A great deal of my personal and professional life has been spent working with artists. And I find that more often than not every artist comes to a point in their career where they have to decide, "Do I really want to keep this up?" Well-established, wealthy artists are the exception not the rule. And though many artists are able to keep a roof over their heads they aren't necessarily living the life they had imagined. Knowing what one values is critical for the working artist. If financial stability, for whatever reason, is the primary value - then rethinking one's career trajectory may be essential. If, on the other hand, creativity, autonomy, or inspiration is the primary value, then continuing along the given path may be the only option. <br />
<br />
The question is, what do you most value? Let me know by taking this week's poll.Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-10651053736970917972017-09-06T05:24:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:47:47.138-07:00the cellist (or how to succeed at music by really trying)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiF-f2VKRcrNqIap0Hu3O7I91ryk7dG0kc9FxBFKG0H-R9aovv_H2btQsfzntthvM0P06o5RicC_7H-MZAzeyTkH_hsY5F6nzj5tXjYCzbIReDRxoKBBzGQFlEdvC3PhxjmtmGZnnj3xk/s1600/Cellist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiF-f2VKRcrNqIap0Hu3O7I91ryk7dG0kc9FxBFKG0H-R9aovv_H2btQsfzntthvM0P06o5RicC_7H-MZAzeyTkH_hsY5F6nzj5tXjYCzbIReDRxoKBBzGQFlEdvC3PhxjmtmGZnnj3xk/s640/Cellist.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
So I have a story for you...<br />
<br />
A few years ago I was working with a young musician. He was enrolled in a highly respected program where he concurrently attended both a competitive ivy league school and an elite music conservatory. He was an equally fine cellist and young scholar.<br />
<br />
About three months into his sophomore year, he walked into my office panic stricken. He had just returned from a music lesson where he was told that it was time to take his music to the next level and he needed to find an additional two hours each day to practice. "Two hours!" the young cellist exclaimed while throwing himself into the chair across my desk. "Where will I find two hours?"<br />
<br />
It turns out he was asking a fair question. The young man was using every free hour in his day to either eat, study, practice, perform, bathe or sleep. It was only every other week or so that he broke away for a bit to catch a movie or dinner out with friends. And the work was paying off. He was a 4.0 student, pursuing dual majors in math and philosophy. But there was not room to give.<br />
<br />
After reviewing his daily routine, trying our best to scrounge up an extra 20 minutes <i>somewhere,</i> I finally asked, "What if you just studied less?"<br />
<br />
The kid looked horror stricken. "What do you mean?"<br />
<br />
"I mean, what if you studied less? What would happen?"<br />
<br />
He sat in his chair silent for a few minutes, picking away at his thumb nail. Finally he answered, "I wouldn't get As."<br />
<br />
"What do you think you'd get?" I asked.<br />
<br />
"Bs?" It was a question.<br />
<br />
"Probably so." I said.<br />
<br />
"But I don't get Bs."<br />
<br />
"But what if you did?"<br />
<br />
He had never earned a B in his life. And the thought of a B as "okay"was liberating. The thing is, he had every intention of being a professional musician and everyone (his faculty, mentors etc.) agreed that his intention was not only realistic but likely. Truth is, he didn't need the degrees in math and philosophy, much less a 4.0. He was in the dual program because he loved to learn and thought, "why not get a B.A. while I'm at it."<br />
<br />
The moral of the story is this: sometimes we need to examine our goals, and re-think our definitions of success. We might have the goods to "do it all" but why should we? And at what cost?Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-113761383906118461.post-51665256953124196822017-09-02T05:17:00.000-07:002018-05-04T08:35:18.247-07:00sometimes you earn the minus<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
My grandmother became ill during my first year in grad school. She was (and fortunately, still is) a funny, generous and wickedly smart woman who had been partly responsible for not only showing me what was "out in the world" but for convincing me that I could be in any part of it I chose. I was devastated when I received the call saying she was undergoing emergency surgery. I had never missed class, but couldn't imagine sitting through a discussion about financing American higher education while my family's matriach was holding on by a thread. So, I left my faculty member a voicemail and headed to the hospital. It was the first time I earned an A- in grad school.<br />
<br />
A few years ago I was sitting with one of my students, let's call her "Lisa." She was in tears. It was the end of her sophomore year in college and she was looking at <i>her </i>first "A-" on an otherwise pristine transcript. Lisa was the perfect student on paper: stellar college exam scores, flawless homework, spotless attendance record, but she was the lab partner from hell. I knew this because I had been talking with her classmates all semsester. The problem was, Lisa's strive for perfection made it impossible for her to give up control. She not only micromanaged her team-mates but became rude and condescending during times of stress. And finally one of her instructor's grading policies reflected this aspect of her work. Students in the class underwent a peer evaluation; an evaluation which Lisa failed. As a result her overal grade dropped from an A to an A-. Lisa was furious and I imagine, even years later, would still say the grade was unfair. But I might disagree because I'm hard on students who say, "I got a 'C' in the class." Or worse, "Dr. so and so gave me a 'C'." In my mind class grades, with few exceptions, are earned not received.<br />
<br />
<br />Simply Definedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00347426922021118700noreply@blogger.com