Is the Future Really That Soon?

On Wednesday of last week I completed two of my hours at the library. It was again nostalgic being back there. I remembered the days of learning the dewey decimal system, putting together puzzles or picking up a new series of books. While there, I helped restack recently returned books. Moreover, I engaged with young readers. I learned about books that are popular now with the tween set. In addition, they still had the bin of puzzles I used to reach for but now with a few more things. I realized when I was there I have quite a few puzzles just sitting around my house so I think when I go later this week to complete my hours I will drop them in the box and give someone else the change to enjoy them.
Aside from the volunteering experience, I had a pretty busy week, registering for classes and laying out my final prep. This is my first semester as a graduate student and it is surreal to think it could be all over in just a years time. Applying for positions and looking into testing has really made me contemplate if I'm in the right place. I want to say I am, but right now I'm just taking it one day at a time. I hope everyone else had a smooth and simple registration process.

Reflecting on the Past

Today was the first day of my volunteer experience at the local library near my home in Fort Lauderdale. It was an introductory day as the lady called it who showed me around. I was able to see the areas where I used to do puzzles, go on the computer or pick books to check out. In addition, I was able to see some of the employees putting together a display for women's history month. It was weird to be in a place I spent so much time as a kid but also quite nice. They haven't specifically layed out what I will do just yet, but I am excited for the days to come.
On a side note, it was quite alarming to wake up to the news of the near tragedy the struck UCF last night. While it is not uncommon nowadays for things like this to happen, it was quite scary seeing it occur somewhere so close to all of us. I hope that everyone in Tower 1 is able to process the information quickly and move on from the whole mess. I think we're all fortunate the roommate of the deceased thought on his feet, saving potentially dozens of lives. I hope everyone is looking forward today and has a productive and enjoyable week.

Mapping the Future

This week I am scheduled to register for my second semester of Applied Learning and Instruction at the university. It is undeniable that registering for classes is always a stressful process. After two months in this major, I'm definitely certain that I made the right choice for me. Now, I am torn as to what I should do for the next few months. Do I take the summer off to pursue other interests or do I keep the motivation going and stick myself in some summer courses? I've taken summer classes every year I've been at university since 2009 so it seems like there's no other option really. The reality is that I could find other pursuits whether they be in the form of an internship or a job. I don't know what I'll do at the moment but hopefully with patience and the resources I have in front of me, I'll be able to make the right decision.

Star Teachers: Myth or Reality?

This weeks topic touched on the validty of Star Teachers. Do they exist? What qualifies someone as a Star Teacher? According to the reading, these teachers do exist and they are those who go above and beyond the traditional actions of a teacher. In my personal opinion, these types of teachers do exist and they are always parts of our educational lives. To me, Star Teachers, are the ones you remember. By remember, I don't just mean their names. I mean the ones that showed you compassion or gave you an extra hand when others brushed you aside.

I think the idea of Star Teachers can be applied to our everyday lives. There are "Star" people in every facet of life. I learned recently that in medicine there are Star Nurses who go the extra mile for every patient they come into contact with. You probably have "Star" people in your life. These are the ones you can call at any hour of the night, who will drop everything for you and make the difference that effects your life long term. I hope everyone appreciates the "Star" people in their lives. Have a great spring break!