What have you learned about the way you learn, work, and/or collaborate?
I've definitely learned that I am a very hands on energetic person that enjoys working and interacting with others, while taking on the leadership role. I believe that working with energy helps whatever you're doing to be a lot more fun, and seem a whole lot faster. Then, eventually the energy will spread amongst others and everybody will get in a fabulous mood.
What project was most valuable to you, and what have you gained from it?
The most valuable project to me would definitely have to be Ampersand. The reason why, is because it helped me to not only become a stronger writer, but most of all a stronger student as well. By being placed in the middle of a professional working environment, and having to be responsible and independent, I was able to get a hands on comprehension of the business world and how it functions. This molded me to become mentally stronger, and I was able to learn new work ethics that I knew I would use in the future.
Describe in detail one significant academic challenge you faced this year. Why was it a challenge for you?
One significant academic challenge that I faced this year, was trying to keep all my work organized. I become busy very easily, so sometimes being organized just slips my mind. But in my mind, I knew that if I wanted to have work and notes to refer to, and navigate through things in a reasonable amount of time, then I would have too start keeping better track of my things. So for the sake of bein a better student, I did.
Describe one valuable mistake you made this year.
One valuable mistake that I made this year, was over powering some of the people that
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Writing Reflection
I would definitely have to say that the main improvement that I've seen in my writing, is in my structure. In the beginning of the year when we did the American Icon writing piece, my writing was good, however, I had no idea that my writing would've reached the level of professionalism that it did, during and after the completion of Ampersand.
From Beginning the American Icon project, all the way up to completing Ampersand I felt like I was on a roller coaster for writers! When the ride began I can honestly say that I was nervous. The reason why was because I knew that I was going to experience thrill and excitement, but I was also going to experience unexpected ups and downs as well. But fortunately for me, I came onto the ride with a proper mind and heart.
The main ups and downs that I was nervous about the most, were ones that had to do with structure. I've always been good at just putting my thoughts on paper, but not so good at organizing those thoughts so that they flowed and made since. I was able to somewhat do this for my American Icon project, but I realized that if I wanted to come out on top as being the best writer that I could be, I would have to replace the word somewhat with completely. So from then on, I just began to make that a mental goal of mind that I would always be working towards reaching. Because all aspects of writing are extremely important, it's just that to me personally, the structure of the writing works as a base for everything else. Since once I figure out where certain pieces are supposed to go, I can easily work around that, and work to make all the other aspects such as creativity and grammar, fall into place. So I knew that in order for this strategy to be successful, I would have to work hard and began right away, so I did.
From then on, I started taking more detailed notes, asking deeper questions, engaging in on revision and critique sessions, observing other peoples blog responses, and creating a special bond with my teacher, so that he to could help to guide me through the process of being a better writer on a personal level, by realizing and understanding my own specific needs and strengths as a writer. Before I knew it, it was time for the Ampersand project, and I knew that this was my time to shine and incorporate ALL the writing skills, strategies, tips, tools, and enhancers that I had learned up to that point.
Eventually, after all the hard work, effort, and energy that I put into the work and writing exercises leading up to my final Ampersand writing piece, not only did I exceed my goal of improving my writing structure, but I was also able to incorporate my experience at internship, that stood as a real real world learning component. I couldn't help but to feel excited and proud of myself at exhibition, because I knew that I had come a long way, and people would definitely be able to tell without even talking to me, because it was all shown through the creativity, professionalism, and organization of my piece.
My future writing goal is to be less afraid of making mistakes and trying new things with my writing. I've always been one to try and write my writing based on specific rules and tips that were taught to me, which is fine, but rarely any of my own. I enjoy being myself, fabulous, and unique, so I'm just going to keep trying to work towards always incorporating my characteristics and going beyond the boundaries of general writing guidelines.
From Beginning the American Icon project, all the way up to completing Ampersand I felt like I was on a roller coaster for writers! When the ride began I can honestly say that I was nervous. The reason why was because I knew that I was going to experience thrill and excitement, but I was also going to experience unexpected ups and downs as well. But fortunately for me, I came onto the ride with a proper mind and heart.
The main ups and downs that I was nervous about the most, were ones that had to do with structure. I've always been good at just putting my thoughts on paper, but not so good at organizing those thoughts so that they flowed and made since. I was able to somewhat do this for my American Icon project, but I realized that if I wanted to come out on top as being the best writer that I could be, I would have to replace the word somewhat with completely. So from then on, I just began to make that a mental goal of mind that I would always be working towards reaching. Because all aspects of writing are extremely important, it's just that to me personally, the structure of the writing works as a base for everything else. Since once I figure out where certain pieces are supposed to go, I can easily work around that, and work to make all the other aspects such as creativity and grammar, fall into place. So I knew that in order for this strategy to be successful, I would have to work hard and began right away, so I did.
From then on, I started taking more detailed notes, asking deeper questions, engaging in on revision and critique sessions, observing other peoples blog responses, and creating a special bond with my teacher, so that he to could help to guide me through the process of being a better writer on a personal level, by realizing and understanding my own specific needs and strengths as a writer. Before I knew it, it was time for the Ampersand project, and I knew that this was my time to shine and incorporate ALL the writing skills, strategies, tips, tools, and enhancers that I had learned up to that point.
Eventually, after all the hard work, effort, and energy that I put into the work and writing exercises leading up to my final Ampersand writing piece, not only did I exceed my goal of improving my writing structure, but I was also able to incorporate my experience at internship, that stood as a real real world learning component. I couldn't help but to feel excited and proud of myself at exhibition, because I knew that I had come a long way, and people would definitely be able to tell without even talking to me, because it was all shown through the creativity, professionalism, and organization of my piece.
My future writing goal is to be less afraid of making mistakes and trying new things with my writing. I've always been one to try and write my writing based on specific rules and tips that were taught to me, which is fine, but rarely any of my own. I enjoy being myself, fabulous, and unique, so I'm just going to keep trying to work towards always incorporating my characteristics and going beyond the boundaries of general writing guidelines.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Historical Reflections
If I could choose, I would be more than excited to be able to run into Martin Luther King, jr. as a visitor in my college. The reason why I would choose him, is because he made such a large impact on youth, and was able to introduce a dream, that changed the unity, communication, and emotions, amongst youth of all ages forever.
By him doing this, I believe that not only was he able to empower and encourage history as a whole, to go forth and become better, but a countless number of individuals as well. Through his famous address given in Memphis the night before his assassination, on April 3, 1968, I was quickly able to sense the determination and hope that he had for his people. Fortunately for him, without hesitiation, he was clearly able to reassure people all across the world that he looked over, and he'd seen the promised land! and that he may not get there with us, but we as a people would get to the promised land, regardless of how long it took.
A quote that I would explain to Martin Luther king as one of my favorites, would be from his famous "I Have a Dream" speech which is: " I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. " This is one of my favorite quotes, because to me personally, it was presented to the world as sort of like a key to a better future. Because through the quote, he let it be known that the significance and worth of a person should not be based on their skin color, but by what's within.
Due to the amount of power, hard work, knowledge, creativity, dedication, and hope that he contributed to our history, I would have no choice but to show him respect, and controlled energy while interacting with him. Letting him know that I am overjoyed to be in his presence, but aware of all the things he did, and all the obstacles he faced to make our world a better place.
*Primary sources
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Literary Reflections
If I could bring one character from any one book that I've read this year with me when I go to college, I would definitely bring Huck, from The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, as a roommate on campus. The reason why I would bring Huck, is because I feel like since he had a rough childhood and was formally uneducated, he deserves a friend that he can count on for guidance, an that can at least try to make up for the happiness that he missed out on as a child.
I know for a fact that not only would I be able to help Huck, but Huck could help me as well. College can become chaotic and difficult sometimes, and in order to not be consumed by these factors, it may take some kind of person, object, or action, to help you. So by Hick being in my life as a friend, I feel like he can help me to remain humble and keep my head on straight, since he will, in a way be depending on me to keep my promise of being there for him. And in order for me to do that, I would have to stay focused and stay away from college negativity.
“Miss Watson she kept pecking at me, and it got tiresome and lonesome", were the words that were said by Huck, in chapter three of the book. In my personal opinion, Huck was not given the proper guidance and structure in his younger years, and it would be my pleasure to become a leader and companion to Huck, not only for college life, but life in general as well. I believe that it's never too late to befriend and genuinely help someone, after they have, in fact, endured a rough childhood.
I know for a fact that not only would I be able to help Huck, but Huck could help me as well. College can become chaotic and difficult sometimes, and in order to not be consumed by these factors, it may take some kind of person, object, or action, to help you. So by Hick being in my life as a friend, I feel like he can help me to remain humble and keep my head on straight, since he will, in a way be depending on me to keep my promise of being there for him. And in order for me to do that, I would have to stay focused and stay away from college negativity.
“Miss Watson she kept pecking at me, and it got tiresome and lonesome", were the words that were said by Huck, in chapter three of the book. In my personal opinion, Huck was not given the proper guidance and structure in his younger years, and it would be my pleasure to become a leader and companion to Huck, not only for college life, but life in general as well. I believe that it's never too late to befriend and genuinely help someone, after they have, in fact, endured a rough childhood.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Post Trial Reflection
1: The main facts presented to the case by the prosecution, was that they believed that Illegal immigrants should get the same rights as US citizens, and that nowhere in the amendments does it mention that illegal immigrants should be treated unfairly. The prosecution did an excellent job of proving their point, and referring them to the constitution. When Calvin got up to counter examine people from the defense he really held his ground, and made even important people, such as the governor, confused about their own beliefs. Also, by being able to present useful evidence in an organized way, they gained a better understanding from me, as a jury member. As for the witnesses, Lupe did a greta job of really taking on the role of an innocent immigrant that just wanted equal rights, because she made her testimony convincing and realistic, which greatly contributed to the prosecution as a whole.
2: The maim facts presented to the case by the defense, was that Illegal immigrants were making Arizona an unsafe environment, and was taking job openings away from US citizens. I believe that along with the prosecution side, their side could've been a little more prepared with their evidence and presentation as a whole. Their witnesses seemed a little unsure about their own information, and their counter arguments weren't that powerful. Other than that, I feel like overall they did, in fact, get their point across . They were trying to make it clear that illegal immigrants shouldn't be able to receive the same rights as humans. They did, for the most part have effective evidence to help their case, but could've went a little more in-depth with it. As for the witnesses, I liked how they chose to use a governor as a witness, because it helped to get an understanding of some ones opinion that had power.
3: - The most significant piece of evidence was from the prosecution side, when Calvin mentioned that no where in the amendments does it say that illegal immigrants don't have the right to a fair trial. To me, by him pointing this out, it just sort of backed the defense side into a corner, because it was in fact the truth. It challenged the defenses point about how illegal immigrants should not get the same rights as US citizens. Calvin's observation really ignited the case, and made me, as a jury member, want to listen to more.
4: - The most significant argument was again, Calvin trying to prove that what the beliefs of the defense witnesses did not clearly connect to the amendments. Because, no matter what is said or done, the amendments are the amendments, and we as people, are supposed to abide by them. So therefore, it became really interesting to see people (defense), try and twist and veer around them, during certain points of the trial.
5: I absolutely do agree with the jury. I believe that overall, the prosecution side was a lot more structured and organized when it came to trying to prove their point to the jury. I mean, both sides did a good job, but when it came down to it, the evidence and creativity of the prosecution side was a lot more powerful, and grabbed my attention a lot faster.
* I think I deserve a 45 out of 50 points because I took good notes, I listened, and in the end I was able to clearly refer back to the trial, and successfully engage into the jury deliberation.
2: The maim facts presented to the case by the defense, was that Illegal immigrants were making Arizona an unsafe environment, and was taking job openings away from US citizens. I believe that along with the prosecution side, their side could've been a little more prepared with their evidence and presentation as a whole. Their witnesses seemed a little unsure about their own information, and their counter arguments weren't that powerful. Other than that, I feel like overall they did, in fact, get their point across . They were trying to make it clear that illegal immigrants shouldn't be able to receive the same rights as humans. They did, for the most part have effective evidence to help their case, but could've went a little more in-depth with it. As for the witnesses, I liked how they chose to use a governor as a witness, because it helped to get an understanding of some ones opinion that had power.
3: - The most significant piece of evidence was from the prosecution side, when Calvin mentioned that no where in the amendments does it say that illegal immigrants don't have the right to a fair trial. To me, by him pointing this out, it just sort of backed the defense side into a corner, because it was in fact the truth. It challenged the defenses point about how illegal immigrants should not get the same rights as US citizens. Calvin's observation really ignited the case, and made me, as a jury member, want to listen to more.
4: - The most significant argument was again, Calvin trying to prove that what the beliefs of the defense witnesses did not clearly connect to the amendments. Because, no matter what is said or done, the amendments are the amendments, and we as people, are supposed to abide by them. So therefore, it became really interesting to see people (defense), try and twist and veer around them, during certain points of the trial.
5: I absolutely do agree with the jury. I believe that overall, the prosecution side was a lot more structured and organized when it came to trying to prove their point to the jury. I mean, both sides did a good job, but when it came down to it, the evidence and creativity of the prosecution side was a lot more powerful, and grabbed my attention a lot faster.
* I think I deserve a 45 out of 50 points because I took good notes, I listened, and in the end I was able to clearly refer back to the trial, and successfully engage into the jury deliberation.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Semester DOS, Honors History #2
Although World War 1 and 2 are two wars that greatly influenced the world that we currently live in today, there were multiple events that occurred that helped to make this possible. The event that interested and grabbed my attention the most is when women were finally able to work, since I am of course, a lady.
when the government launched a propaganda campaign, in 1942, to sell the importance of the war effort and to lure women into working, the entire idea of women workers coming into existence began to explode.
They promoted a fictional character of "Rosie the Riveter" as the ideal woman worker: loyal, efficient, patriotic, and pretty. Not long after, did the song, "Rosie the Riveter", get released to women all across the US. This became an instant media success. This song not only motivated women who weren't working outside of their homes to start, but even women who were working in less intense jobs such as coffee shops, to began working in more intense locations such as factories.
However, while patriotism, and the hit song did influence women, ultimately it was the economic incentives that convinced them to work the most. Once they were at work, they discovered the non-material benefits of working, like learning new skills, contributing to the public good, and proving themselves in jobs that were once though of as only men's work.
All women responded to the call to work differently depending on age, race, class, marital status, and number of children. Half of the women who took war jobs were minority and lower-class women, who like I mentioned earlier, were already in the workforce.
I believe that by this sort of perspective that women looked at working is still being used today. In today's society, when women apply for jobs, they do tend to take into consideration the status of their personal lives. One women might think that its best for her to be a stay at home mom since she has a lot of children, while a less fortunate women might be in dyer need of money,a and will take any job that's available. In my opinion, I believe that it all depend son the person and their take on life.
when the government launched a propaganda campaign, in 1942, to sell the importance of the war effort and to lure women into working, the entire idea of women workers coming into existence began to explode.
They promoted a fictional character of "Rosie the Riveter" as the ideal woman worker: loyal, efficient, patriotic, and pretty. Not long after, did the song, "Rosie the Riveter", get released to women all across the US. This became an instant media success. This song not only motivated women who weren't working outside of their homes to start, but even women who were working in less intense jobs such as coffee shops, to began working in more intense locations such as factories.
However, while patriotism, and the hit song did influence women, ultimately it was the economic incentives that convinced them to work the most. Once they were at work, they discovered the non-material benefits of working, like learning new skills, contributing to the public good, and proving themselves in jobs that were once though of as only men's work.
All women responded to the call to work differently depending on age, race, class, marital status, and number of children. Half of the women who took war jobs were minority and lower-class women, who like I mentioned earlier, were already in the workforce.
I believe that by this sort of perspective that women looked at working is still being used today. In today's society, when women apply for jobs, they do tend to take into consideration the status of their personal lives. One women might think that its best for her to be a stay at home mom since she has a lot of children, while a less fortunate women might be in dyer need of money,a and will take any job that's available. In my opinion, I believe that it all depend son the person and their take on life.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Semester DOS, Blog #14
The most interesting aspects of World War 1:
- Involved most of the world's great powers
- More than 15 million people were killed, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history
- The decision was made to involve the United States in a war so that the "life of the entire people could be altered." This was the conclusion of a foundation supposedly committed to "peace."
- President Washington attempted to warn the American people about getting embroiled in the affairs of Europe. But in 1914, it was not to be. There were those who were secretly planning America's involvement in World War I whether the American people wanted it or not.
Cited Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I
http://www.threeworldwars.com/world-war-1/ww1.htm
WW2:
- The war was directly blamed by the victors on the militant nationalism of the Kaiser's Germany; it was Germany that effectively started the war with an attack on France through Belgium
- Was a global military conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945
- No one wanted war. Yet, when Germany attacked Poland on September 1, 1939, other European countries felt they had to act
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt led the United States during both the Great Depression and World War II. Paralyzed from the waist down after suffering a bout of polio, Roosevelt overcame his disability and was elected president of the United States an unprecedented four times
Cited Sources:
http://history1900s.about.com/od/worldwarii/World_War_II.htm
http://www.threeworldwars.com/world-war-1/ww1.htm
What I hope to learn:
- How were children involved or effected in these wars?
- What was the point of both wars?
- What other problems did these wars lead to?
How did the wars impact life today?:
I believe that both these wars are still impacting our world and society today. The reason why is because since both wars were so big, and caused so many different things to happen, the process sort of worked as a rotating circle. What happened then came back around and started affecting us today, just on a much smaller scale. We still have wars, we as the people still have to elect a president that we think will help change things for the better, and we still have laws that help to keep things in order.
By me learning about the wars, I'm able to learn about and understand what events happened in the past that led the world to where it is today, and why things happen the way they do.
- Involved most of the world's great powers
- More than 15 million people were killed, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history
- The decision was made to involve the United States in a war so that the "life of the entire people could be altered." This was the conclusion of a foundation supposedly committed to "peace."
- President Washington attempted to warn the American people about getting embroiled in the affairs of Europe. But in 1914, it was not to be. There were those who were secretly planning America's involvement in World War I whether the American people wanted it or not.
Cited Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I
http://www.threeworldwars.com/world-war-1/ww1.htm
WW2:
- The war was directly blamed by the victors on the militant nationalism of the Kaiser's Germany; it was Germany that effectively started the war with an attack on France through Belgium
- Was a global military conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945
- No one wanted war. Yet, when Germany attacked Poland on September 1, 1939, other European countries felt they had to act
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt led the United States during both the Great Depression and World War II. Paralyzed from the waist down after suffering a bout of polio, Roosevelt overcame his disability and was elected president of the United States an unprecedented four times
Cited Sources:
http://history1900s.about.com/od/worldwarii/World_War_II.htm
http://www.threeworldwars.com/world-war-1/ww1.htm
What I hope to learn:
- How were children involved or effected in these wars?
- What was the point of both wars?
- What other problems did these wars lead to?
How did the wars impact life today?:
I believe that both these wars are still impacting our world and society today. The reason why is because since both wars were so big, and caused so many different things to happen, the process sort of worked as a rotating circle. What happened then came back around and started affecting us today, just on a much smaller scale. We still have wars, we as the people still have to elect a president that we think will help change things for the better, and we still have laws that help to keep things in order.
By me learning about the wars, I'm able to learn about and understand what events happened in the past that led the world to where it is today, and why things happen the way they do.
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