Since I last wrote you, I’ve returned from Pittsburgh, gave two speeches, wrote 6 papers, and much more. It’s been quite busy as always, but today was one of those days that was dedicated to my efforts. Today was McKendree’s Honor’s Convocation. Academically achieving students, one from each discipline, are awarded honors. Earlier this semester, I found out that I was to receive the English honors. During the ceremony, I was also awarded one of the recipients of Who’s Who Among American College and University students. It was quite an honor and it was amazing to have my mom, sister, semi-sister, peers, faculty, and staff members share my achievements with me. More than anything else this year, this was the ceremony I was waiting for.
I declared a grad school this week. The final decision is: University of Nebraska-Lincoln! I am one of the newest Huskers. There’s a lot of corn there I hear. It’s quite alright. I’m pretty used to corn. I chose UNL because a week ago, they offered me an assistantship with tuition remission and health insurance coverage. When comparing UNL and WVU, UNL just simply won. I’m so excited to start classes, work with the faculty, and just start a new life! With this, I also chose my classes for the Fall! It’s amazing that I only take English classes–two British Lit and two general English topic ones. Super pumped!
Last couple of weeks update:
The play went really well! Stage make-up and hair was a bit outrageous for my liking. I had to put white spray in my hair every night and wear incredibly heavy make-up—not to mention the awesome old lady dress I wore. I’m super glad I had the chance to be a part of the play, and it is a decision I will never regret!
I also had the chance to meet up with a couple of my favorite English people—two alums from McKendree who graduated two years ago. We usually get together every couple of months, but this time we had waited a bit longer, so it was awesome to meet up with them!
McKendree, as a community, also participated in some efforts to support the Japanese people affected by the earthquake recently. We made health kits one week and then another week, SGA helped in having the McKendree community sign a large banner that sent thoughts and prayers to our friends at Technos College—a school with a long-standing relationship with McKendree.
The Bearcat Cave finally opened! The grand opening ceremony last Friday went wonderfully! Many people turned out, and now, every time I walk by, it makes me so happy to see someone use the space!
Last Saturday, I woke up early to help with Special Olympics. It is always a moving and inspirational experience, but all of the athletes were amazing. Another girl and I got to be the escorts for the athletes with Cerebal Palsy. Talk about a crazy fun group of people to hang out with for the day. I also went to the installation ceremony (along with Meagan) for the newest sorority on campus—Tri Sigma. It was a very nice ceremony in general, but all of the women getting inducted were that much more excited to be there.
On Sunday, it was KET day. We picked up trash in the morning on the highway and then later on, I saw some of the ladies for library hours.
Monday was pretty tame, but I did have a nice conversation with the President while I interviewed him for The McKendree Review. It was quite sad though at the same time, the three articles I turned in on Tuesday were my last articles as a Staff Writer for The Review.
Last night was McKendree’s third annual Drag Show. Always a great time but this year tops them all I believe! The show is both for fun, and to bring awareness to unity and equality to the McKendree community. I got to sing an abridged version of Spice Girls with one of the queens and three other audience members.
And then of course, today was Honor’s Day! As Honor’s day crept closer and closer, graduation, I realized is only a couple of weeks away! This semester, year, and four years, has/have gone by so quickly!
Keeping me in line this weekend, though, are two large papers—one that is due on Tuesday–, a paper I need to write for the conference in San Antonio I’m going to this weekend, a play, and some Spanish homework. Off to do some work!
