Movie Review: "I Love You Phillip Morris"

I was lucky enough to attend a screening for the film "I Love You Phillip Morris." This film is based on the true story of Steven Russell -- an adopted child, turned con man. It is a very fascinating story. He breaks free from jail (on multiple occasions), embezzles money, creates many aliases, and even fakes his own death. All of which ultimately end in Russell received some 140ish years in prison.

Jim Carrey plays Russell. Russell is a gay man, and to see Jim Carrey in this role was a challenge for me. Some of his typical expressions came through, and I was instantly taken to Ace Ventura, or Liar Liar. Carrey did amazingly well at portraying such a unique and intriguing character.

Ewan McGregor plays Phillip Morris. Phillip is Russell's lover. They meet in jail, and have an instant connection. Many of Russell's escapes from jail are to find Phillip and be reunited with him. McGregor does a fantastic job, and makes you feel connected and sympathetic to his character. I almost teared up in the final scenes when they express their love to each other.

The movie itself had hilarious lines, serious tones, and was overall worth seeing. I suggest seeing this movie. I would give it 3 out of 4 stars.

Holiday Season

The Holiday Season is about giving. So why do we make lists of what we want? Should we start making lists of what we want to give? If you made a list of what you want to give, what would it look like? Should giving be focused around material items? Or can we give hope, love and inspiration?

This is just my thought of the day.

Growing Up & The People Who Teach Us Life's Lessons

I truly believe that children need to be apart of some competitive team growing up. Personally, by being on different teams, whether it was Odyssey of the Mind in elementary school or sports team throughout school, there was potential to learn many different lessons. And I learned my lessons. And, often times it was the coaches who provided these lessons.

"Be a team." "Pass the ball to the open person, don't be selfish." "You will have to work together to get your desired results." "Don't be late, or you are running laps."

By participating in teams at such a young age, and learning how to interact with people who are different from you is a challenge. However, for the rest of your life you are going to be challenged  by a team. In school, you are put into groups for projects. In work, you work within a group or department to get things done. Your coach becomes your teacher, and your boss by instructing you on what to do. Basically, the team culture is all around. It is the way we operate businesses.

But who are these people who are teaching us our life lessons at a young age? Who are these people who are telling us how to act, how to be? Who are these people who are teaching us work ethic? Often times, children will admire their coaches. Their coaches can do no wrong.

Over the course of my experiences with coaches, I have come to find that coaches do indeed do wrong. They are not doing wrong in the gym, but in their personal lives. They strive to teach us how to be, how to act, and how to live, yet they seem to have not figured it out yet. It is devastating to know that people you spend so much time with, and look up to are scumbags. People who told you not to steal, go and steal. People who tell you that you need to trust one another, go and break that trust.

I am not really sure where I was going with this blog post....so I will have to finish it later.

...

Waiting for "Superman"

If you have not heard of the documentary "Waiting for Superman," I suggest you do a quick google search. This film, which I saw today, was fantastic. It is about education in America. A system that is in desperate need of attention. A system I learn more and more about because my best friend has been thrust into the world of it. She is a Teach For America teacher, and has horror stories of 16 year-old sixth graders.

But back to the movie: the part of the movie that struck me the most was when the film maker discusses track systems. The first time I can remember being put into a track was in 4th grade. We were divided by our math capabilities. There was the GT (gifted and talented) program, and then everyone was broken down from there. I was in Mrs. Jones' math class, which was right below GT. The next time I remember how big of a deal the track system was, was between 7th and 8th grade. There was a test that was to be taken to determine whether or not you could take algebra in 8th grade. It may not seem like a huge deal, but that test would determine my class schedule for the next 4-5 years. I did not pass the test right away. I was put on a waiting list, and had to go talk to the principle with my mother to get placed into the algebra class.

Why was it such a big deal? Well if I was on the regular track I would take biology as a sophomore, and chemistry as a junior in high school. Rather, I took biology as a freshmen and chemistry as a sophomore. I would take pre-calculus, and trig. I would then have the decision my senior year as to whether I wanted to take calculus or advanced placement classes. I guess I was on the fast track -- I am not sure where that fast track was taking me.

Did I really receive a better education because I was on this track? Were the expectations of me greater? I know they were greater from my parents. Majority of my friends were on the same track. Were we friends because we were going places?

This movie made me take a look back at my education. Even through out college -- did I get what I paid for? The teacher's assistant was about 3 years older than me -- were they capable of teaching me what I needed to know? Overall, this movie digs deeper into the education system, and how if you attend one bad school through out your childhood, you are that much further behind. I hope everyone goes to see this movie. It was truly eye-opening.

GO SEE IT NOW!

Yelp Helps!

Tonight was a magnificent evening filled with good company, good drinks, and non-profits. Tonight, my friend Brittany and I attended an event called "Yelp Helps." In case you are behind the times, Yelp is a website that allows users to rate and review restaurants they have visited. It is a website that others can search for restaurants, and see people's honest opinions. Let's be honest -- it's great.

Anyways, this event was to showcase non-profits through out the Denver area. There was everything from Livestrong, Planned Parenthood, Denver Dumb Friend's League, to the highlight of the night, the Denver Firefighters. Let's just say we saved the best for last.

here

The most intriguing booth we visited was an organization that was registering people for the national bone marrow registry. It was simple. We swished water for 10 seconds, and then swabbed our mouths. We handed our swabs to the people, and they will ship them off to be processed. Seems pretty painless. Now that I am back in the comfort of my room, I have started thinking about the what ifs. What if I am a match? What if they call me? What if someone needs my help? What will I do?

Will I go through the procedure to save someone I do not know? Well of course! It is hard to believe by doing that simple test I have put myself out there to now help an individual as much as I can as they struggle to fight for their life. I almost wish that I am presented with the opportunity. I want to be able to help someone.

I think that there has been something missing in my life. I think what might be missing is giving back. As the holiday season approaches, I am always reminded of how lucky I am. I have a father who has successful battled cancer and has been cancer-free for nearly 10 years. I have a wonderful, and loving family. I have amazing friends.

 I hope that this year, I can donate my time or money to a good cause to help some else's holiday be as merry as mine. Does anyone have any good suggestions as to what organizations might need the most help this winter?

To find out more about the non-profits that were at the event please go here.

The Help...

I just finished reading this fascinating book. Yes, I might be behind. But I have been busy! Anyways, this book by Kathryn Stockett is a must-read. Personally, I love these stories. My parents grew up in the south. My dad, more specifically, was alive during all of this. He grew up in a southern country club. I am positive his mother's friends had this type of help, although my dad has never mentioned it.

This book, along with a course I took in college, had me questioning my parents. I asked them why they never spoke of this time. They struggled to answer me. They replied they were young. My dad was 10 when Brown V. Board was passed. At 10 years old, you begin to remember things. Where you were when certain things happened, and what you were doing.

The sociological aspect of race, and gender fascinate me. People are socialized to believe certain things about them and the world. Why does a little girl have to have a pink bib? Why does the white girl have to have a white doll? I still don't get it. For as far as we are forward in many aspects, the world is still so far behind on others.

Oh The Life of an Airline Child...

Let's face it, being the child of a pilot has its perks. I have reaped the benefits of it for as long as I can remember. As I approach 25, (in 2.5 years) I realize I need to take FULL advantage of the benefits while I still can. So, this past weekend I had nothing to do. I had just gotten to my parent's house from the gym. (I have to water their plants while they, too, reap the benefits of free travel.) It was noon, and I was curious as to what my big brother was doing that night. He lives in Vegas. It's a strange question to ask someone who is hours away from you. Well, I decided I was going to go visit him for the night. Just the night. I had to work Monday. (Remember, I am a grown up now?) Anyways, I check the flights to see if they are open. Well just my luck, there was a flight at 16:04 to Las Vegas that was pretty much wide open! It is now 1pm, and I am half an hour away from my apartment. I need to pack, shower, look professional, (you have to represent the airline in a positive way), and be out the door NO LATER THAN 2:15 if I want to be able to make it to the airport in time to catch the flight. 

Welp, I made it! I was off to Vegas. With this being a VERY last minute trip, we had nothing planned. We decided to go see Le Reve at the Wynn. The show was amazing. It was a water show with acrobats and such. They had one minor tech problem, but other than that I felt as though I was transported into a dream; like the title of the show suggests.  And because my brother is a local, we received a discount on our tickets. (There are always deals, you just have to ask!) I won $40 playing video poker, while my brother lost $20. He was not to pleased. We had a late night snack of In-N-Out. I cheated, and bought a ticket home, because I could not play the "wait in the airport and hope I make it home game" flying stand-by. Overall, my 27 hours in Vegas was a success. My otherwise boring weekend, turned into quite the adventure. 

Le Reve 

Find out more here.

Next weekend I am thinking I may trek to Kansas. 

Oh yea, that half marathon...

training and idea is dead. Who has the energy to work out after a long day in their cube? Not I.


I'll work on it.

The First Photo...

Yesterday I had the opportunity to run a photo shoot. Yes, I was working with elderly people, and their adult children, but it was still a fantastic experience. I found the photographer we wanted to work with. Set the appointment up. Made sure we had the check to paid her. Helped decide on clothing, and spots to snap the photos. I saw it from start to finish.

Six weeks ago I never would have imagined having the opportunity to do this. Because my company has internal marketing (we don't use an outside agency), I get to see projects from start to finish. It really is quite fascinating. An example of this is placing an ad in a newspaper. I find the newspaper we want to advertise in. Find a media contact, and request a media kit. I then help decide if we should place an ad in their publication, how big it should be, and if it should be in color or black and white. If we decide to advertise with that paper, I buy the ad space. I then help create the art for the ad. Once the ad is approved by the community it is representing, I send the as, or traffic it to the publication. I request a read receipt, and tear sheets. Tear sheets will show us that the ad actually ran, and what the quality looked like. A few weeks later, I receive the invoice, and verify that we are paying the correct amount.

How cool is that? If I worked at an advertising agency, I would see MAYBE one step. I know for a fact I would not see the whole process in its entirety. For a first job, this is turning out to be pretty legit!

(To view the photographer we used in Fort Collins, CO click here.)

Drastically Different

My life has become drastically different since my last blog, and I am not sure where to even begin.

I have officially begun my adult life in the working world. I support 95% of my life and its adventures. (My parents still generously pay for my cell phone bill, and gym membership). It is hard to believe that in the economy, I was able to find a job BEFORE my internship even ended. Currently, I work as the Marketing and Sales Coordinator for Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC. I help with creative services for 21 retirement communities across 9 different states. Everyday is different, and never dull. The most upsetting part of my job is when I run the weekly reports and see residents have moved out because they have become deceased.

Everyday I learn new tricks of the trade. Tomorrow, for instance, I will be at our community in Fort Collins running a photo shoot. I never would have thought I would be in charge on running a photo shoot! I have been with the company for about 90 days which is so minimal considering the lady I work with has been working for the same individuals for 22 years!

Next, I have moved out of my parent's basement! I now live in LoDo area of Denver. My backyard is Coors Field. While the Rockies were playing it was fantastic for people watching! I have yet to truly explore all that Denver has to offer. I am hoping that I can soon! My goal is to find the perfect coffee shop for the winter season that is approaching.

Stealing?

here.

Let me tell you about my half marathon training...

Well, I am trying. That is about all I can say. I really actually do not like running, so this is a challenge. I get bored at the gym after about 30 minutes. However, on the positive side, I have found 2 others who also want to participate in this crazy thing I am doing!

I have begun working with a trainer. Well, today was the first day. It DID NOT go well. She told me to do my cardio BEFORE meeting with her. So I did. Twenty minutes on the elliptical. I was feeling good. I meet up with her, and my ass felt like it was continually being kicked. I was feeling decent until about 30 minutes into our 50 minute session when nausea struck. What is someone suppose to do when this happens???

Well for me, I tried to work through. I wanted to prove myself! Well, bad, bad idea. I had to stop in the middle of my session and excuse myself to the restroom. I vomited. How pathetic am I? Really, Kim? Apparently I am even WAY more out of shape than originally anticipated. These next 6 months are going to be the worst 6 months of my life. (But maybe I will be able to buy some adorable new clothing with all of the weight that is going to fall right off me due to my extensive training.)

Here.

LinkedIn? Or just another way for people to keep tabs on me....

LinkedIn.com is a great tool in order to market yourself to potential employers. You can make connections with past/current employers. These individuals can write reviews of your work, and your capabilities. You can browse job listings. It is wonderful when used appropriately.

I have found myself in limbo when it comes to making "connections." This isn't Facebook, nor is it Twitter. It is strictly for professional use. I want potential employers to be able to take me seriously. With that being said, should one go about accepting every LinkedIn connection, or should your be choosey? What if someone who wants to connect with you doesn't have to best track record? Will I be put in a group with them? I want to connect with people who are going to help me, or is maybe mutually beneficial. Yes, this is selfish, but isn't that what the 'real world' is about? Isn't every (wo)man for themselves?

Today, I helped an old Professor out with her dissertation. She kept asking me questions about what I thought about the work place, what I wanted from it, and how I would define being successful. I hope that as soon as I am immersed within the work place I uphold my hard working capabilities. I also hope that I get promoted by staying ethically correct. I certainly hope I am not one of those assholes who takes credit for things they have not done. I also hope I make strong LinkedIn connections, and that I am not left in 'limbo,' because of how someone feels about me.

Am I out of line to even be doing this? Is it even worth it?

Whoopsies!

I promise I will blog tonight/tomorrow morning. I have just been so excited the be back in Colorado that I have completely spaced this! I will update soon!

The Story of the Half Marathon in Vegas...

My brother, Chris, has challenged me to run a half marathon on Sunday, December 5th in Vegas. They close down Las Vegas Boulevard for this marathon. I willingly accepted his offer, as I am trying to get back in shape. I have also always wanted to run a half marathon, and now I have a reason. I am very competitive when it comes to my brother. I cannot let him win in this half marathon. I am going to train, train, and train some more until I believe I can beat him. The only set back, he is training for an Iron Man Triathlon that is going to be taking place in early November. He will be in amazing shape.

I on the other hand, have a long ways to go. I am coming off of a four-year binge of pizza, and unhealthy eating habits. I will need to create a new diet for myself. (Living in my parent's house will help this. They have a clean kitchen that allows for food preparation, and my mother will slap the pizza out of my hand). Additionally, this is where the gym membership that my parent's are generously paying for comes in handy.

A half marathon is a little more than 13 miles. Currently, I think I can run about 2. The Las Vegas Marathon has a time limit on it. I have four hours to finish the race. Hopefully, I will not need four hours! If you would like to find out more about the race, or if you are interested in running with me, please go here.

2009 Rock-n-Roll Las Vegas MarathonLas Vegas, Nevada December 6, 2009Photo: Victah Sailer@Photo RunVictah1111@aol.com631-741-1865www.photorun.NET

Leaving Lawrence...

Yesterday, I packed up my belongings in Lawrence. I was moving back to Colorado.  I am now a resident at my parent's home once again. Yikes. Yuck. Really? It is going to be an adjustment for both parties. I am use to leaving the house without someone asking, "where are you going?" My dad yesterday told me that if I wasn't going to come home at night I was to tell them. He wanted me to call him. I replied, "When I decide at 3am I am not coming home, you want me to call you?" He quickly replied, "A text will work."

I cannot complain to much. So far, I haven't paid for anything. My mother is being nice by doing my laundry as a graduation present. I get to park my car in the garage. The house is very clean, compared to my other house. And, they are going to pay for my gym membership!

It is just going to be hard not having my friends under the same roof as me. They were my family at school, and the ones I relied on. Growing up, I never imagined myself living in my parent's house again. But I guess with the poor economy, and my lack of funds, it is the only choice I have.

Final News Story...

An Alcohol Summit was held on campus on Friday. It was an opportunity for our campaigns class to share our ideas with more than just our clients. Below is another news clip discussing our ideas.

Click here to see the video and story.

Who would deny the power?

People who refuse to buy into social media are crazy. This is where the world is at now. Accept it. Join the conversations.

What do you do with your free time?

Campaigns has finally come to an end. We presented our campaign, "Jayhawks Party Smart, So Party Like A Jayhawk," on Wednesday. My group worked more than 1,300 hours on our book, video, ideas, and suggestions. The Revel Group (as we named ourselves) was passionate about what we recommended. The video below opened our presentation, and was edited by me! Free time has reappeared in my life. I am uncertain what to do with myself!

Quotes

Phone Interviews? Good or bad?

On Friday, I participated in my first phone interview. I get extremely nervous for interviews in general, and in particular, I was terrified for this one. I was interviewing for a sales internship in Denver. I assumed the other potential candidates had in-person interviews. Am I disadvantaged? I believe so.  The interview process is about showing your personality through body language, handshakes and appearance. I couldn't read their body language, and they couldn't read mine. What if it was negative? 


I already have a slightly high voice, and I know it gets higher when making 'professional' calls. Why is this? I have no idea. Why do I have to have different voices? My professor told me to write "slow and low" on the mirror. Did this help? I certainly hope so. 


Overall, I am terrible at the whole interviewing process. How can someone judge my potential based on a conversation and a piece of paper? Shouldn't we have a two-week trial period where I can show them my hard work, and abilities? After two weeks, if I haven't impressed them, then dismiss me. Don't dismiss me based on questions that are potentially irrelevant to anything I am going to do. 

Eleanor Roosevelt

"The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences."


"Life was meant to be lived, and curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life" 


"Do what you feel in your hear to be right -- for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't." 


"It isn't enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn't enough to believe in it. One must work at it."

To.Be.Considered...

How to be a minimalist:

Stop buying unnecessary things.

Toss half your stuff, learn contentedness.

Reduce half again.

List 4 essential things in your life,

stop doing non-essential things.

Do these essentials first each day, clear distractions

focus on each moment.

Let go of attachment to doing, having more.

Fall in love with less.

Leo Babauta @ mnmlist

The Book of Awesome!

The Process of Applying for Jobs

My generation has it pretty easy when it comes to the job application process. New jobs are posted  on the Internet daily. You can do a simple search, and a myriad of job opportunities appear. The career services center on campus has a database on the web of potential jobs. All are easily accessible. The only risk is that you may fall into a scam (if you don't do your research correctly). But seriously, how freakin' simple is it to do a Google search for a job you want and in the town in which you want it? Pretty freakin' simple. Making it even easier is the microblogging site Twitter. Follow industry experts, or even a hashtag and magically jobs appear. Continuously. Finally, e-mail your resume, cover letter, and references, and you're golden. Right? 

Not so much. Think about the sheer volumes of people who are also applying to the same positions.  Think about all of the e-mails that address is getting. Think about how quickly your resume can be deleted. Think about how you electronically sign your name. You aren't even putting your real signature on your cover letter. How do you make your type stand out from everyone else's? Think about the fact that you are branded by what a potential employer finds out about you on the Internet. Yes, good things can happen, but think about those photos you didn't want you friend to post, but they did. Now imagine your ultimate dream job comes and goes because of those photos. You could get rejected from a job without ever having spoken verbal word to an individual. Crazy. 


Think about having to address snail mail envelopes. Tedious. Think about having to lick all of those envelopes. Gross. Think about having to call, or blindly write to see if a company was hiring. Not so easy. 

So, while we are a generation that hides behind our MacBooks, think about applying to your ultimate job that you are qualified for via mail, and never hearing a word. Well, you sent it to the wrong address. Now, while sitting at your computer imagine typing in the wrong e-mail address. At least you get an e-mail bounced back giving you a second chance! 


"There seems to be some perverse human characteristic that likes to make easy things difficult." -Warren Buffett 


Images from: http://www.units.muohio.edu/rsp/recsports/images/aquatics/email.jpg
http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/communicate/blog/teacher//images/snailmail_1_.jpg

Look...I'm Famous!

I had my 5 seconds of fame last night on WIBW Ch 13 news in Topeka, KS. I had the opportunity to be interviewed regarding my campaign class' project. Check it out! Click here.

Does Somebody Have a Case of the Mondays?

Today, Monday, April 12th marks the beginning of my last month as an undergrad. Mondays are typically my worst day of the week. I am attend eight hours of class, and six of them are in Kansas City. However, this day has been absolutely amazing. Today WIBW in Topeka interviewed myself, our client and some fellow students about our campaign class' project. I then found out my Zumba class was canceled. Always a nice surprise, considering they gym we exercise in does not have air conditioning. Additionally, my Professor boosted my confidence by applauding the work I have been doing.

Now, as I sit at my computer I continue to research my future. I was directed to a program called University Of Dreams. They are an internship program/study abroad experience. They provide housing, food, and educational seminars. The reservations I am having are the expenses, and whether or not to go domestically or internationally. Going domestically would allow me to build contacts within the United States (and would be less expensive); however, going to London would allow me to experience a different culture. London would give the the opportunity to explore more of Europe. I always say, "if not now, then when?" But I have to keep my future in mind. What if after the internship culminates I receive a job offer. Would I want to live abroad? Would it have been a waste of money to not build a larger network in the United States? Should I even be considering this program when I am still waiting to hear back from other companies?

I think that I am going to go ahead and apply to the program to see what may come of it. And, as I drive to Kansas City tonight, I am going to roll the windows down, enjoy the weather, jam to Miike Snow, and not think about my future for a few minutes.

PostSecret

PostSecret.com

Unpaid Internship or Job?

Everyday I look at my planner, and realize my time as an undergraduate student is quickly coming to an end. Have I set my self up for success in the future? For me, I am struggling to answer this question. In the middle of last semester I decided to change my double major, to a single major and minor. Inevitably, I also changed the date of graduation. I had planned to have an internship this summer, and then graduate in December. Now, I am graduating in May. 

So, with no previous internship experience in a field related to my course work, which route do I take? Well, my professor told me that taking an unpaid internship after graduation is like saying you don't value yourself, and what you have been taught. Then there was an article in the New York Times discussing how unpaid internships are illegal. Yet, more and more students are accepting such internships in order to get their foot in the door. The article by Steven Greenhouse says, "in 2008, the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that 83 percent of graduating students had held internships, up from 9 percent in 1992. This means hundreds of thousands of students hold internships each year; some experts estimate that one-fourth to one-half are unpaid."

Then there is the job aspect. How do you get a job without the internship experience? I don't think you can. If you want to work in an ad agency or PR agency, good luck. Most of these places do not even hire INTERNS with out previous agency work. Last semester, I heard from a guest lecturer's mouth that they did not look at interns who did not previously have at least 3 internships! The computer they used looked at key words, and based on these words would sort you into piles. Yes, maybe, and no. Not even a single human being was reading student's resumes. 


 So, then how does someone like me get a job, or internship, or maybe even an internship that might be paid? I guess, I should start relying on my 'network' and 'networking' skills to help. I want to soak up as much knowledge as I can, and prove my work ethic to whom ever is willing to take a chance when hiring me. 

You can access Steven Greenhouse's article here. 

National Championships

As I watched the Duke-Butler game last night, I could not help but think back to the KU-Memphis game two years ago. Yes, I wish my team was playing last night. Yes, I was jealous. But only a handful of individuals have the opportunity to experience their team winning a national championship while enrolled.

I will seriously never forget March Madness of 2008. It was absolutely epic. I know KU has an obsession with it as well. Every computer still has the shot that sent the game into overtime as the desktop background. I wish that everyone had the opportunity to experience such an amazing event. There is nothing quite like it. 

Time Management.

This next month of my life is going to be absolutely crazy. In my capstone course for the Journalism school, we are working on a campaign to help minimize toxic drinking on the KU campus. What does this entail? Well, my life is going to be consumed by meeting with my awesome team for hours and hours practically every day. Additionally, there is still research to be done. Myself, 3 other students, and our Professor are heading to Colorado State on Thursday morning. We will be interviewing administrators at CSU to determine how they have reduced their drinking levels. We will then leave Friday afternoon to return to Kansas. Quick trip. Members from my class will also travel to UNL, UVA, and Mizzou. This course proves to the world what we have learned in our 4 years at KU, and our ability to produce a worthy campaign. There was a news article about our class in the Lawrence-Journal World. You can find the article here. 

In addition to the nearly 40-hour a week campaigns course, I am additionally enrolled in 14 more hours. Of course at the end of the semester, comes the due dates for EVERYTHING. This next month I will have the opportunity to prove to myself my abilities of time management. 

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to better my skills? Right now, I make to-do lists. Rank them in importance. And complete the tasks as they come. (I also include tasks I've already completed, just so I can cross them off my list). <--- That might be cheating, but it makes me feel like I've accomplished something. 

Image from: http://th00.deviantart.net/fs27/300W/i/2008/162/c/0/Red_Solo_Cup_by_dmg025.jpg

March Madness

My beloved Jayhawks lost tonight in the 2nd round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. They were the overall number 1 seed. It was a very disappointing loss. I was hoping for a repeat of my sophomore year, when my team brought the national championship title back to Lawrence. 

As a senior I would have loved running to Mass St. to celebrate with 40,000 people again. But, I  guess that is why the call it March Madness. There are always going to be major upsets.

Pictures from tonight's game. 

Read This:

...ARE WE STUCK IN HIGH SCHOOL? 

After reading Seth's Blog: On Self Determination, I wasn't sure which part I was playing. Through out college, I took the courses that were required. Did I grow as much as I wanted to in my 4 years at the University? I'm not sure.  Are there classes that I missed out on? Of course. Are there courses I loved way more than others? Of course. (I absolutely loved my African and African-American studies course about the civil rights movement from the emancipation of slavery until today). Do I regret not expanding my wings a little more? Yes. Should I have taken advantage of the on-campus speakers and guest lecturers? Of course. Can I change these the things I didn't do? NO! And that is the most important thing to realize. I did what I did, and I loved it! There are always going to be some things you wish you would have done differently; however,  you can't change the past. You have to look forward to continue to grow. 

Lost time is never found again. - Benjamin Franklin

I may be behind but...

this website is amazing. Check out LookBook.nu. It is a fashion website. It has new trends, hot looks, and people rave about it. This website is fashion forward, unique, and a comprehensive view of what fashion is. People from all over the world write in to share their ideas, pictures, and fashion concepts. If you are feeling fashionable, take a picture of yourself, upload it to the site, and get instant feedback. Amazing.

COLLECTIVE FASHION CONSCIOUSNESS.               

Bucket List + then some.

After watching "The Bucket List," and "The Buried Life," (a show on MTV that follows four young men on their journey to complete their list and help others along the way), I have come to the conclusion that I want to create my own list of things to do before I die. As a child I was very privileged growing up. This allowed me to experience many things that some people can only dream of. I have had the opportunity to travel to some of the greatest places in the world, such as: Monaco, Spain, Italy, Turkey and so on. However, for me, there are areas that still need exploration.

My list...

1. Live in California
2. Travel to Africa to help in an orphanage, or with severely malnourished children
3. Have children of my own (which would also entail finding a husband -- or someone to be a sperm donor -- but the details aren't important).
4. Go skydiving (preferably by the ocean. I have watched my good friend's video many times, and I am super jealous).
5. Travel to NYC
6. Buy a house
7. Be able to financially support myself
8. Travel to South America
9. Be an entrepreneur
10. Cook a four course meal (and have it be edible).
11. Have a pet dog
12. Travel to London and Paris
13. Invent something (anything is possible...)
14. Go to Australia to play with Koala Bears, and Kangaroos
15. Learn to scuba dive
16. ...

I just created this list, but I will accomplish all of these things. Whether it is a few days from now, or a few years from now, I will cross each and every one off! Life is a journey, and I hope to have one crazy, wild, fun, and satisfying journey.

Chat Roulette? Yes, Please.

The video below accurately depicts my experiences on ChatRoulette.com. If you haven't yet tried this website, which has been buzzing lately, I recommend it. Be prepared to experience many perverts, illegal drugs, and getting 'nexted' more often than not. However, you will find a unique individual to talk to on occasion. Also, I recommend visiting the website with a few other friends. It adds to the entertainment, and makes it slightly less awkward. If you live in Kansas, like I currently do, be prepared for negative reactions. Most people have to ask multiple times where, and then are baffled that people actually live here!


chat roulette from Casey Neistat on Vimeo.

And so it begins...

Well, not really beginning, more or less continuing. I am on a MEGA search for a job or post-grad internship. I have a list of about 20 different agencies, or small businesses I am going to be applying to over the weekend. For me, that means I have to write 20 different cover letters. If only I was good at selling myself. (And not in that sense, you dirty minds). I wish I were a genius when it came to putting together words and phrases. I envy my roommate. Without thinking, she can write the most inspirational/moving pieces.  I can barely jot down my strengths without hesitation. After re-reading my cover letters hundreds of times, I am finally ready to send them. However, nerves always get the best of me. What if this isn’t what they want? What if I’m not qualified enough? Does this really portray who I am?

Slowly my attitude is changing. Sooner, rather that later, it is going to be filled to the brim with confidence. I am the best. They would be lucky to have me. I have the skills. I am qualified enough. I am willing to work harder than the person next to me, and I always ready to learn new skills. I will get a job!

(http://www.christinaquick.com/blog/wp-content/uploads//2009/04/cubicle-dwellers.jpg)

As an 18 year-old freshman, I didn’t want to listen to professors when they stressed the importance of work experience, and actually applying what you learned in class to the real world. My summers consisted of working at Eddie Bauer, going to Spain (which I would NEVER change -- except I would add some more time abroad), and taking summer school. Not internships. I did my homework, and got by. Now, I wish I had listened to EVERY word anyone had EVER told me. I would have set my self up for a better success rate. (Oh well, I am determined to be successful, and I will accomplish it!)

Seriously (and I mean seriously) take advantage of every opportunity! It could be going to career fairs, the etiquette dinner, going into teachers offices (get to know them so you can use them as a recommendation), joining organizations on campus, joining community organizations, or even faux interviews at the career center. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE OPPROTUNITIES! Universities provide them to be used, so use them!!!

Reading List:

The following are the books I have either started reading, or just purchased from Borders to read.

*Switch: How To Change Things When Change Is Hard - Chip Heath & Dan Heath
The New Rules of Marketing & PR - David Meerman Scott
*The Social Media Bible - Lon Safko and David K. Brake
Blink - Malcom Gladwell (recommended by aroundthetruth.blogspot.com)
Poor Little Bitch Girl - Jackie Collins
*Nanny Returns - by Emma McLuaghlin and Nicola Kraus

A few of these books are requirements for different courses I am currently enrolled in, and others are just for my personal pleasure.  I honestly wish I had more time to sit down and read. There are so many different books out there. If you have any good suggestions, anything, let me know! Especially if it is beneficial to social media, PR, journalism, marketing, etc. I have a genuine crush/love/obsession with social media, and I am trying absorb anything and everything I can!

* - indicates I have actually opened the book, and started reading.

Stolen...

These monkeys are hilarious, crazy, amazing, and just plain awesome. Why hadn't anyone told me of these creatures? Who even knew monkeys like liquor as much as some humans do??

Thanks to a post on Jen's wall for the above video.

Famous last words...

("Starting Monday", I will look like this...)

Every week it is inevitable that I will say "starting Monday." Whether it is referring to going to the gym, eating healthier, or actually reading for class. It could even be Tuesday, and I would still say, "starting Monday." I then proceed to do the complete opposite of what I was going to start on Monday. If I was going to eat healthy "starting Monday," I would then proceed to eat terribly until Monday. As if I am trying to get the most amount of junk food into my system before Monday. Basically, it is a never ending cycle. I could do amazing with my so-called weekly goals the first half of the week, and then completely BOMB the second half. Maybe it is because my weekend starts at 12:15 on Thursdays, or maybe it is because I am, after all, a college student. I mean, stereotypically speaking college students are lazy, pizza eating, beer drinking "adults." (None of which are me, right?)

But "starting tomorrow," as my good friend Devin always says, I am going to improve on this habit of mine. I will no longer put off what I can get done today, or something like that. This is going to be a challenge for me. I mean, after all, I do only have about 3 months left to be irresponsible. With that said, I leave you with some famous words from the one and only Tom Petty.

“You have four years to be irresponsible here. Relax. Work is for people with jobs. You'll never remember class time, but you'll remember time you wasted hanging out with your friends. So, stay out late. Go out on a Tuesday with your friends when you have a paper due Wednesday. Spend money you don't have. Drink 'til sunrise. The work never ends, but college does..."

I Hate It When...

Be curious, not judgmental. - Walt Whitman

College is a refuge from hasty judgment. - Robert Frost

People say they aren’t judgmental. I’m not sure about you, but I know that my first impression of someone is based strictly on judgment. I see everyone doing it to. (At least I think so). They size a person up. Head to toe. Why do people tell you to dress up for interviews? Well the interviewee is judging you. If you look like crap, they are going to think your work is crap...or something like that. Why did my mother always tell me to look decent when leaving the house? Well I still haven’t changed, but you never know whom you are going to meet. I guess maybe I should stop wearing hoodies, and sweats out. I could potentially bump into Mr. Right the next time I run a quick errand to Dillions. (However, I highly doubt that, I mean I have been in Lawrence for 3.5 years and all I ever see are townies at the grocery store. I swear).

Maybe you are quote un-quote non-judgmental but seriously- subconsciously whether you want to admit it or not – you are making first impressions. And first impressions = judgment.

However, once you get to know someone - I think it is best to try your best to not judge someone else's lifestyle. (I'm not saying I am perfect when it comes to this). Everyone is going to live their life the way they want to live it. So, I am going to continue living mine the way I want to, as you should too. If you are happy that is all that truly matters.

So basically, everyone is judgmental, but I guess you should try really hard not be. And if you find a way to avoid all judgments, please let me know.

Stolen From Some Great Author...

Blogworthy: imboycrazy




If there is one person out there that is real and tells it like it is, its 'imboycrazy'. Not kidding...this chick rocks. Whatever kind of day you are having, she can make it better. Hilarious, down to earth, and unforgiving. I have spent countless hours reading back through some of her earlier posts instead of doing some homework for investments or reading for senior seminar. Everything she touches on are the topics that everyone else is too afraid to talk about and put insight into. Worth looking into fersher.

http://imboycrazy.com

Thanks to http://brittanygrasmick.blogspot.com/ for this post.

They say to never look back...

But I have had some of the best times of my life in the past 4 years. From studying abroad in Spain, to winning the 2008 Men's NCAA Basketball National Championship and everything in between, KU has been an amazing experience. I had doubts at first, but I am so happy that I decided to stay in Lawrence. I have met some amazing, unique, and inspiring people. I participated in classes that I never would have imagined myself taking. I started an organization at the University.

When deciding on a school to attend, my mother kept asking me whether I wanted to be a big fish in a small pond, or a small fish in a big pond. Well at KU I feel like I had to opportunity to experience both. I love that the professors in the Journalism school get to know each student on an individual level. It begins to take on the feel of a small college with in the bigger university. I love going out to eat in Lawrence and running into professors who know who you are, and are happy to talk to you.

Overall, my experience at KU has been truly remarkable. With the three months left I have in Lawrence, I plan to keep exploring the town, trying new things, and creating ever lasting memories with some of my best friends. And I hope to add another national championship to that list.

(PS this is me pretending I know how to use iMovie. I'm just trying to get better).

Happy Valentine's Day!

I spent the day dinning at Zen Zero with my roommates, going to the gym, reading postsecrets.com, applying for jobs, and cooking myself dinner. Sounds just like any other Sunday to me! My parents celebrated their 29th wedding anniversary today. I hope that one day, I can be as happy as they are!

Ace Enders + a Million Different People

I forgot how much I loved him.

iPad

This is why I want the iPad. If magazines could really accomplish this, I would die. iPad is completely content driven, and still needs old media to function. But just imagine the possibilities.

Kelley James

Made me smile.

Blake Mycoskie + TOMS shoes

This past Tuesday I had the opportunity to listed to Blake Mycoskie discuss how he created TOMS shoes. TOMS is based on a philosophy of 'one for one.' Every time someone buys a pair of shoes, he gives a pair of shoes away. The perfect business model. If only everyone else would follow and realize their social responsibility when creating companies. He has found success because of this model. People enjoying donating their money, but it makes it so much more beneficial if both parties in turn receive something. After attending his speech, it helped me realize I want to work for a company like that. A company that participates in something that is so much larger than just the company. If I had the opportunity to attend a 'shoe drop' I would stop everything I was doing and go in a heartbeat.

If you do not own a pair of TOMS, I highly suggest that you go and buy a pair. They are comfortable, inexpensive, and it is for a good cause.

www.tomsshoes.com

Websites.

Currently I am enrolled in a Social Media class. We have only met once, but I know I am going to love the class. Here are some new websites I recently learned about.

http://www.vevo.com/

(Similar to YouTube.com; however, its quality is much better. It is a commercial only site, so consumers cannot upload videos).

http://boxee.tv/

(Site that allows you to access your computer files on your TV; it was profiled at the Consumer Electronic Show).

My First Post

(Taken from Postsecret.com: I'd rather be a housewife and worry about what's for dinner...than finish my degree and worry I chose the wrong profession).

I am graduating in May, and I have no idea what I want to do with my life. I am graduating with a degree in Public Relations, but more and more I realize that it is not what I want to. I want to find a job so I do not have to live in my parents basement. My brother never had to, and if I have to I will feel like I have failed myself.