Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Exercise #3: Personal Reflection
Describe how you feel after reading your blog entries over the semester. Do you feel amazed, disappointed, frustrated or what exactly? Blog an essay that responds to the following questions:
1. How you have grown this semester?
2. How has your thinking changed (about yourself, your future, what’s possible in the world, etc…)?
3. What activities and behaviors have you engaged in for the first time?
4. What are the 3 things you liked best about Leadership for Change?
5. What are the 3 things you liked least about Leadership for Change?
6. What 3 things would you suggest to improve Leadership for Change next semester?

I have grown this semester in ways I wouldn't have been able to comprehend before this class. I didn't put forth my strongest efforts; however I still learned a lot of useful, life-changing skills. I have grown to be more comfortable speaking with fellow students. I have become more aware of myself and my likes and dislikes.
My thinking has changed in a sense I feel like I have worth. What determines how far an individual will go in life is his/her determination. This class has taught me that all people have struggled to get and be where they are today. It is totally possible to reach any goals desired with the right connections and motivation. As long as I use my skills learned in this class, I will reach my goal of becoming a pilot.
This semester was the first time I engaged in “hard times,” “barn raising,” interviewing role models, and etc. Before this class I had never sat down to write out a step-by-step or “next step” plan. Before this class, I also had never contacted pilots or anyone in my desired field of study.
Lastly, I like broadening my horizons learning about other students’ lives and goals. The only complaint I can address about the class is the 3 hours time length. It’s hard for me to remain focused for that long in a class. Some improvement suggestions would be to offer more panel groups, and take a class field trip. Overall I think the class was managed and conducted well. Despite my low amount of effort and enthusiasm, I truly enjoyed this class! It was a stress relief from all other monotonous class styles!
Exercise #2: The Sound-bite
In one sentence, state the most important thing you have learned this semester. Make this the first sentence of this week’s blog.

I have learned to be comfortable with who I am when around people I don't know becuase in general, people are more similar than they are different in that they all have struggled, been embarrassed, been stressed out, been discouraged, been confused, and etc.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Exercise #3: Sunday Meeting
Hold a Sunday Night Planning Meeting (with yourself) and blog about it.

During my planning meeting I agreed to complete a 4-6page psychology paper. I committed myself to applying for more jobs. I also will spend more quality time with my family. I will also work out more thoroughly. I will babysit Wednesday through Sunday. I will go on two dates Fri. and Sat. to try to get my mind off my ex!!!!!
Exercise #2: Business Meeting
Hold your next Weekly Business Meeting with your buddy and blog about it.

My weekly business meeting w/ Charles went quite well, once more. He gave suggestions as to where I should apply for jobs. Also, he discussed a lot of personal issues he'd been facing. He experienced a "melt down" because of the anxiety he is experiencing due to leaving for the Marines. I told him about my break-up with my boyfriend and how hard it was on me. Our meeting was more like a "hard times" moment. It really was beneficial and a stress relief for me though.
Exercise #1: First Steps
Pick one of your first steps, complete it, and blog about it.

Another first step of mine was to apply for more jobs. In addition to the jobs I applied for last week, I added four new locations. I applied for a bus driving posotion at Lake View, 5th 3rd Bank, Espire, and U.S. Cellular. I havn't heard any results from any of the following places.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Exercise #2)
My new buddy for this assignment is named Charles. I recently met him at the roller rink on Friday. During my first week business meeting I discussed the activities I did over the week. Last week I did a lot of cleaning, dog sitting, school work, and exercising. Friday I babysat, Saturday I slept all day, and Sunday I attended church and celebrated Easter with my family. Oh, and Monday (04/05/09) I conducted a psychology survey which was quite interesting. I forgot something else: Thursday I went out to celebrate my little cousins birthday. We agreed for our weekly check-in to be held every Tuesday night at 9pm, where we follow up on our weekly accomplishments. I told him about my goal to become a pilot. I discussed my touchstone which is: I want to feel honored because of my goal choice, I want to feel needed/ depended on by my passengers, I want to be famously known,and I want to feel idolized by those wanting to become pilots.
Exercise #1)
A next step I mentioned was filling out 10 job applications. I can honestly state that I filled out 10 OR more! I applied for Express, Victoria's Secret, Mon Ami Gabi, Westchester Park District, Trump Tower Hotel, 5 TCF Banks, The Cheesecake Factory, and more. This experience was extremely tired and stressful. Many of the locations I spent my precious time applying for weren't hiring. Hopefully I hear some positive feedback in the next week, or so.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Exercise #2:
I constantly experience resistance when it comes to moving forward. Besides that I'm pure lazy and that I procrastinate, I have faced additional resistance. I think the biggest source of my resistance is the reaction I receive when I tell friends and family of my choice. They are always so upset and try to discourage me from joining the services. To them, piloting is a dangerous career; let alone joining the services to obtain my goal. Therefore, it's hard for me to want to pursue a career that displeases all the people that matter most to me. I think the fear it reveals is survival fear. I hear about pilots getting laid off all the time and most airlines aren't currently hiring. I definitely have fear of not being able to find a well-paying job. The underlying message is just I need to be accepted. I want the approval of my loved ones to give me the courage and confidence to tackle my goals in life. I'm still in the process of getting through the resistance I face. But with time, I will come to terms with my choices and be comfortable.
Exercise #1:
I revised my planning wall mentally because I realized that there are better routes to obtaining my goal of becoming a pilot. After attending a workshop in SSB and speaking with a dean Malcolm Smith, and speaking to my sister's boyfriend who was in the Army for 5 years, I am now looking into joining the Navy. So, my next step is to cal a Navy recruiter and learn about the requirements to be part of the Navy. My former "Next Step" which was for me to research the Air National Guard was in progress until I learned that I needed to be looking into joining the Navy instead.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

My "Next Step" for last week was to apply to an aviation school in Hawaii! My uncle lives in Hawaii and I would love to go to school there. I did do research on costs of flight programs. Also, I am in the process of finishing my application because I don't know exactly what type of flying I want to do; Either a major airline, or flying for a UPS/ Fedex agency. But I am encouraged and will continue my searching.
My next occured on March 20th. I wanted to apply to the aviation program in Atlanta as well as Lewis University. I only got around to applying to Lewis University. I have a male friend who attends the university, so I hung out with him and got to meet a couple of his frineds in the program. They weren't that helpful, but I think I like the school, so I'm really considering going there.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

After completing my first step of contacting an Air-Force recruiter, I felt extremely informed. This women told me her whole life's story and how she had a passion to fly all her life. I felt very excited and hunger for this goal even more. She was actually the most passionate role model I have interviewed thus far.
Interview of two of my roles models 03/17/2009

At the very last minute, I was able to have a phone interview with a pilot that flies for UPS mail. Mr. Jackson is my hair stylist's uncle. He has no degree and therefore never graduated from college. He simply earned his a piloting license and some other certificates. These included ATP, FE, 1500 hours Total flying time, and 1000 hours PIC time. I wasn't able to ask exactly what each of these mean and how to go about receiving them, but he promised to call me at a later time so we could further this interview. To be honest, he went off subject with answering my questions, so I found him a little discouraging. But I understand that because of his age, requirements have changed, and I appreciate him helping me in this time of emergency.

The first person I interviewed was a recruiter for the Air-Force. Her name was Sarah M. I can't recall her last name. She used to fly for the Air-Force, but now serves as a recruiter. She entered into the Air-Force straight out of high school which gives her a total of 13 years of service. She stated that her biggest struggle was being away from home for months without a break. She has a huge passion for flying still to this day. On occasions she said she rents private planes and flies her family out of town! HOW COOL! A plus for flying for the service is that the training is free, yet adequate. She stated that after flying for the Air-Force, she had so many job interviews waiting for her. I never got to ask her why she didn't take advantage of these offers, yet worked as a recruiter. She constantly emphasized on how her parents were in the service as well. This is what got her passionate about her field of work. However, they worked in the Army. This interview has definately expanded my interests from just flying for local airlines, to actually flying for the Air-Force.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Head Pharmacist at Lombard Jewel Osco:
Pink Sconza
(630) 629-5050

My second interview wasn't as successful as the first. Ms. Sconza was extremely busy when I called her. She gave me some quick pointers. She suggested that I shadow a pharmacist to make sure this is what I really want to do. She said that being a pharmacist requires being on your feet all day. It takes lots of memorization of medicine and med. codes, insurance codes, etc. It is really a fast-paced occupation at times. Also she stressed how competitive this field is, so I have to get the best grades I can in school. Even though the interview was really brief, it was beneficial to my overall knowledge.
Head Pharmacist at Cook County Hospital:
Lorna Pryor
(708)386-2947

I know I chose one of the more convenient role models to interview, but this only makes my homework assignment for next week harder. Basically Mrs. Pryor and myself discussed salaries, job duties, her likes and dislikes of the job, and the steps she took to becoming the "head" pharmacist. She went to pharmacy school at Malcolm X College. She was the only African Amer. chosen for the pharm program for that specific year. After graduating, she went straight to work for Cook County Hospital. She started as a general pharmacist and eventually worked her way to the head position. She couldn't recall what her starting pay was, but stated that she makes over "6 figures" now! She went from working overnight, and now to day shift. we discussed so much, that it's impossible to cover all territories. She spoke about the differences in working in a hospital versus small clinic(Walgreens). She discussed the interaction w/ patients being the most stressful part of the job because they often are rude and insulting. She stated that what she loved most about this job was the kind, regular patients and her knowledge of different medicines. I learned so much from Mrs. Pryor that I consider valuable. This will definitely help me make my decisions at whether or not I want to go into this occupation.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Head Pharmacist at Cook County Hospital:
Lorna Pryor
(708)386-2947

Head Pharmacist at Lombard Jewel Osco:
Pink Sconza
(630) 629-5050

Actress Sanaa Lathan:
Untitled Entertainment
331 North Maple Drive 3rd Floor
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: 310-601-2100

First African Amer. female astronaut:
Mae Jemison
(518) 276-2840

Talk-show Host:
Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey's Publicist:
Lisa Halliday
Harpo Productions
Harpo Studios
110 North Carpenter Street
Chicago, IL 60607-2146
Phone: 310-278-5559
A goal of mine is becoming a pilot. The flow chart representation of this goal is as follows:

research various aviation schools-->apply for scholarships/loans/grants for aviations school-->apply to aviation schools-->get accepted to an aviation school/program-->enter aviation school-->complete aviation school-->apply for internships-->earn behind the wheel flight hours-->obtain aviation license-->apply for jobs in my field(United Airlines/Amer. Airlines/etc.)-->eventually work my way to be a well-known pilot-->research different celebrity's flying agencies-->apply for a job flying one celebrity-->expand my territories and fly numerous celebrities.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Assignment #4: Exercise #1)

My dream is to be a famous pilot. I want to further this career and eventually fly celebrities around the world. My touchstone would be fame, wealth, world-wide travel exposure, networking with celebrities, and a lot of vacation time off work. I’m not sure of any role models who have accomplished this task. My target is to be able to own a personal plane and fly my friends and family around the world. Also to be infamously known for what I do.
Homework assignment #4)

My personality type is ESFP(extroverted, sensing, feeling, perceiving)
Based on the description of my personality type, I am People-oriented and fun-loving. I make things more fun for others, because I'm pleasant to be around. I live for the moment, and love new experiences. I dislike theory and impersonal analysis. I'm interested in serving others. Likely to be the center of attention in social situations. Well-developed common sense and practical ability.

In total shock, this description really fits me. The portrait says that I am definitely spontaneous and I love to have fun! There is nothing I'd rather do than to hang out and have a good time! I love to be the center of attention and perform for people. I am very loud and love to make others laugh. I have a general acceptance of everyone, because I love people. A downfall of my description is that I often do things out of obligation and not genuine desire. The portrait pointed-out that I am an animal lover which is greatly true. All my life I've owned animals and wanted to be a veterinarian. I can relate to all the characteristics of an ESFP individual.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Fantasy Analysis:

Indispensable

What: Soap
Water
Mouth
Food

Where: My bedroom
School
work-out gym

Who: My man
My parents
My dog

Optional But Desirable

What: Another pet dog
More little cousins
A new vehicle

Where: A big house next to a lake
The most expensive and luxurious resort in Brazil

Who: My friends (They get annoying sometimes!)

Frills

What: Juice
Junk Food
Ice cream

Where: The park
Disney World
Exercise #9:

My ideal day would start off with me waking up to a white sandy beach with fine guys all around. These males would all take me through my morning exercise routines by their nude demonstrations. They would be holding umbrellas shielding me from the sun while I stroll down the beach. After such an event, they would feed me all kinds of fruit and yogurts as my morning meal. After I feel like I’ve eaten enough they would give me a sensual massage to calm my nerves. Next comes the facial, manicure, and pedicure. That would end my day of pampering. To end the day off right we would go to every club possible until our bodies ached and we couldn’t take anymore. Then it would be time to go home………What happens next you ask? Use your imagination!!
Exercise #8:

My ideal environment would be a stress free one. This in tells no school work, lots of fine guys, a couple of luxury cars, and a big house surrounded by a heated swimming pool.
There would be a landing pad for my personal helicopter, a runway for my private jet and gated security all around my property. There would exist a private beach for my family and close friends, an exercise room with the latest, most beneficial cardio machines, 24 karat ceilings, burnt orange marble floors, a movie theater, and a private golf course. That describes my perfect environment.
exercise #7:

How long since last done? Costs money/free? Alone/ w/ someone? Planned/ Spontaneous? Job related? Physical risk? Fast/ slow? Mind/body/spiritual?
Eating 30 min. money both both no no moderate body
Sleeping 12 hrs. free both planned no no N.A. mind/body
Swimming 4 days free both planned no yes moderate body
Kissing 5 hrs. free someone spontaneous no no both mind/body
Hugging 5 hrs. free someone spontaneous no no slow mind/body
Flirting 1 day free someone spontaneous no no fast mind/body
Exercising 2 days money both planned no yes fast body
Chilling 5 hrs. free both both no no slow mind/body
Babysitting 8 days free someone planned no no N.A. mind/body
Listening to music 8 hrs. free both spontaneous no no N.A. mind/body/spiritual
Singing in the church choir 1 day free someone planned no no both mind/body/spiritual
Skating 9 days money someone planned no yes both body
Traveling 1.5 months money someone planned no yes both mind/body
Shopping 1 day money someone planned no no fast body
Driving 5 hrs. money both both no yes fast mind/body
Instant Messaging 1 day free someone planned no no fast mind/body
Text messaging now money someone both no no fast mind/body
Talking now free someone both no no fast mind/body
Laughing now free both spontaneous no no fast mind/body
Drinking 2 days money someone planned no yes moderate mind/body
Exercise #6:

Lil Bow Wow:
Candyce is a hottie. She can belly dance and two-step better than any other females I've encountered! She looks attractive in swim suits as well! On occasion when we go riding in my two-seater Aston Martin she tells a couple good jokes. I guess you can say she has a BOMN sense of humor!

Eric Benet:
Maaaaannnn Candy Candy! She has to be the most energetic individual that has crossed my path. She loves God, first and foremost, and I respect her for that! Now…….our relationship…….It has had its ups and downs. When she wants to express love and affection, she’s a warm and passionate lady! Her greatest physical attribute is her legs: caramel and smooth without fault. I want her to be my lady one day when she’s ready to be committed and faithful, because now she’s into pimping and playing males! I’m here for you whenever you need me Candyce, just call!

Sister Ch’nese:
My sister is extremely academically bright. When she applies herself in school, she merits great grades. Although she’s not always willing, she’s always equipped with all the necessary skills to assist me in all school assignments. I’m not at all a dummy, but since she’s the older sister, I value her wisdom. I can honestly attest to several occasions where Candyce has corrected, or has done various assignments for me and I received nothing but A’s. She is very lazy though, let me make note of that; However, it takes a lot of begging to get her to agree to assist.

Baby cousin Conner(2yrs old):
My big cousin Can Can is so much fun! She takes me swimming, to Chuckie Cheese, and skating. I eat nothing but candy and junk when I’m over her house. I don’t have a bed time and I can use bad words with her. I enjoy all moments with my big cousin!
Exercise #5:

Candyce, a 22 year old woman was born into a middle-class family. Due to her spoiled life, she was never taught to clean or due any type of house chores. As a result, her living quarter is unorganized and cluttered. Her bed is never made and her clothes are never washed. She has an extremely costly lifestyle due to her laziness. She never cooks and the refrigerator is empty. She always eats out. She never repeats an outfit because she is too lazy to wash her dirty clothes. She purchases new clothes constantly. She loves shoes! Her favorite color is hott pink! She has a lot of hot pink undergarments and accessories. Her chairs are reupholstered with pink and black cheetah fur. She is a fun and free spirited individual!
Exercise #4:

I am clear. I am invisible to most, but I appear in their dreams. I represent the unspeakable thoughts that one carries in his/her mind. I am without sin and always pure; like a newborn baby. I am water. I have no smell or taste. I am CLEAR!

Monday, January 26, 2009

One of my activities that I wrote about currently loving to due was spending time with my little cousins. For the sake of this assignment, I babysat them this weekend from Friday until Sunday. We had a great time together as usual. Friday we went swimming. Saturday we went to church for a meeting, went skating, and went to a family gathering/party. Sunday we went to morning worship service.

The moments I spend with my little cousins are vital to me because it brings them maximum happiness! Whenever they come over my house they are energetic and excited to be here. Also, they cry whenever they have to leave. This means more than anything to me because I know that my time spent with them and effort exerted will always be remembered and valued! I'm the COOL big cousin! Also, my cousins are 2 and 6, so these are the most crucial bonding years of their lives and with me being aware of that, I make sure to always acknowledge that!
To my friends.....Please answer this question.
1.) What do you think are my greatest gifts/strengths?
Homework Asssignment #2

1.) What was I like in the first 5 years of my life?
2.) What things did I love, what games did I like to play, what did you think was unique about me?
3.) What did you think I would become when I grew up?