Berne's World

I'VE MOVED

2010-02-21T11:58:00.002-06:00

Berne's World has moved!!

Find me at my new home on WordPress:

http://bernesworld.wordpress.com

Nothing new up yet, just imported posts, but new content coming VERY soon (Like Today)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T16:28:00.002-06:00

This year, I am thankful to be making it in graduate school, and for the support of family and wonderful friends.

To all who still read this now seldom-updated blog, enjoy your turkey dinner!

Life is Busy

2009-10-29T14:14:00.003-05:00

I'm now midway through my first semester of graduate school. I am finding it to be both fun and challenging, and all the things I'm doing certainly keep me busy. From classes to studying to interning to work, I'm always doing something.

But as I said many times during my undergrad days, I would not have it any other way. I certainly miss having a regular sleep and meal routine, but I am making everything work and managing pretty well.

And I'm really trying to relax a little from time to time so I don't go crazy. Have some great friends I have been spending time with which makes for a nice break from all the activity.

Five Years??

2009-09-07T19:56:00.001-05:00

While posting around here has slowed down a bit, it is still worth noting that this blog has now passed FIVE YEARS online...it was "born" September 3, 2004.

Wow.

New Mac and Snow Leopard

2009-09-07T19:29:00.002-05:00

For about the last 6 months, I have been debating when and if to get a new laptop. See, my laptop is a huge tool for me...I am on it at least a couple of hours daily, usually more, surfing the web, writing email, reading news, chatting, and all kinds of other things. And I will be back in class this week, which means more papers, web assisted discussions and the like.

The week before last, I had to take a cab home from CSP one afternoon, and I decided to detour to the mall because I needed some pants. While I was there, I decided to pop in the Apple Store for the second time in a month to look at new MacBook Pros...and I finally caved. The combination of a free iPod Touch and interest free financing got me and I walked out with a new 13 inch, 2.53 Ghz MB Pro...and I love it.

My one complaint though, has been with Snow Leopard. I was sent an upgrade for $10 through their "Up to Date" program, and while there are some improvements, there are also flaws:

1. I spent over 45 minutes on the phone with AppleCare on Friday to solve a problem with my screen going black and the computer becoming unresponsive during installation. Turns out the install disc is designed to run with factory presets, and because I had dimmed my screen slightly it didn't properly respond.

2. My HP DeskJet will not work with the new OS. HP claims the model is supported, but Apple doesn't have the drivers available yet and rumor is it could be weeks or months before they are. Completely maddening, stupid, and may make it necessary for me to buy a new printer because I refuse to be without for that long.

So...verdict is:

MacBook Pro rules, but if your machine is not preloaded with Snow Leopard it may be to one's benefit to wait a month or two to upgrade...let them get the bugs out.

Where Did Summer Go?

2009-09-02T20:47:00.004-05:00

Apparently, I have not blogged since July 11th. It has become a pattern that I just do not have as much time or desire to update this as I once did. Although as I enter the next stage of my personal, academic and professional life I can't bring myself to pull the plug entirely.

The last couple months have been good and things have begun to fall into place. I have been busy preparing for my first semester in the Leadership in Student Affairs Program at the University of St Thomas, and recently began an internship in Student Services at Concordia University in St. Paul. It is a challenging, fun and exciting time as I begin this new journey.

Many people have asked me recently if I am ready to be back in school. The answer to that question is really a multi-faceted one. Yes, I am ready to learn, to be taking steps to move forward on my chosen path, and to be back in the higher education environment I love. I know, however, that the rigorous schedule of work, internship, classes, studying, and attempting to maintain a personal life will take some time to get used to again. But I am ready and I embrace it.

Wish me luck!

As Expected...

2009-07-11T15:21:00.004-05:00

Talk about expected news...

After Decades in Politics, a Speedy Rise, and Fall, for Burris

The guy was doomed from day one. As if the Blago taint wasn't enough, he was caught lying, or at least not telling the whole story about it, more than once. Retirement is the best decision he could have made.

When you've only raised $800 some dollars in a quarter, it's time to face facts.

Gearing Up for 2012?

2009-07-03T23:59:00.002-05:00

Palin Resigning as Alaska Governor...

Only time will tell if this was a good move for her, or incredibly dumb. It certainly will not help her cause with those who believe she lacks experience for her to have only completed a little more than half her term as Governor.

Perhaps she sensed what has been reported as growing disapproval over her spending so much time away from AK keeping her national profile up?

Finally...

2009-06-30T22:58:00.002-05:00

After 8 months, Minnesota finally has two senators.

Franken Wins Senate Battle

It's about damn time this one got settled. Who wants to bet Coleman announces for Governor within a matter of weeks?

It's Been a While...

2009-05-27T15:45:00.002-05:00

A colleague of mine sent an email last night about a new blog project, and I was reminded I have been away from here for quite a while. I do enjoy having this space to write about my personal and professional interests, and life in general, but I have found in the past few months that I have not had a great deal of "compelling" things to chronicle.

When I last wrote, I had returned from my "grad school tour." I did make a choice, although a different one than I had anticipated. That said, I am looking forward to it with the same excitement and think I made a good decision.

I had a birthday last week. Does 25 feel different than 24? Nope.

I need to go through my sidebar and take out/add a few things. Watch for changes.

If You Are Flying to Chicago From MSP...

2009-03-23T16:10:00.003-05:00

I urge you to try Southwest Airlines. I thought I would check out their new service on the trip discussed in the previous post, and I was not disappointed.

1. There are NO BAGGAGE FEES!
2. You can sit where you want on the plane.
3. Their "home" at MSP is the smaller, easier to navigate HHH Terminal.
4. Their "home" in Chicago, Midway, is easier to navigate than O'Hare, at least I have been told so by many.
5. They don't look at you funny for requesting preboarding as if to say "How disabled are you, really?" (I've had that happen if traveling without a chair or the scooter)
6. Flight crews and gate agents are cheerful and helpful...one flight attendant sang to us and offered to take me to baggage claim and ground transportation himself when my requested wheelchair escort was nowhere to be seen upon arrival in Mpls.

"Spring Break" In the Land of Lincoln

2009-03-23T15:39:00.004-05:00

Ok, I'm not currently a student, so it wasn't really spring break, but I did spend the past week in Illinois visiting two potential graduate schools, the Windy City, and friends. It was a busy week, but a good one. I think I got a good feel for both the campuses and programs, and was able to interview for a bunch of GA positions.

Also did a visit to a Wisconsin school last week, that went well.

Now, two things lie ahead:
1. The waiting game to find out what if any GAs will be offered
2. The ultimate decision

I should have all the information I need to make my choices within a couple of weeks, maybe sooner.

Grad School Update

2009-02-16T17:16:00.006-06:00

Reached a milestone the other day by submitting the last piece of required paperwork for admission to a graduate program. It's quite the process and if anyone says it's a piece of cake, they are wrong.

For the record, I have applied to five schools in four different states. I won't say where on this blog until I have been accepted and decided where I want to go, at least not for now. I am of course hoping for multiple acceptances so I can have a choice where I end up...and even with the initial application process done, there is still follow up, assistantships to be applied for and the like. Definitely a marathon as opposed to a sprint.

So here's where I stand today...
Submitted Applications: Five
Acceptances: One
Rejections: One
Waiting to hear: Three

MCPA Honored

2009-02-14T23:53:00.003-06:00

If anyone who happens to read this blog is a colleague or anyone interested in student affairs in Minnesota, take note:

The Minnesota College Personnel Association (MCPA) is ACPA's State/International Division of the Year, for the first time since 1984!

Read the press release.

Kudos to all my board colleagues, previous board members and anyone associated with MCPA.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T23:44:00.002-06:00

I know I have been a very bad blogger. I seem to be alternating between busy with other things and being not motivated enough to write. Let's see what I've been up to the first month and a half of 2009:

Following current events, as always.
Attending a couple of parties
Cultivating friendships with new and existing friends, attempting to fulfill a goal of sorts for myself to get out more and avoid "hermit" status.
Attended an MCPA meeting and two drive in workshops.
Been working a lot on graduate school applications.

Obama Takes Office

2009-01-20T23:56:00.003-06:00

Today, Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. Whatever your political stripes, it is hard to deny the excitement, anticipation and history surrounding this day in our country.

Yes, Presidential Inaugurals happen every four years, but this man is not just any President. This is a man whose story, personality, and ideas have energized and inspired people in a way not seen in a long time, if ever. In only a few short years, he catapulted from the Illinois Statehouse to the US Senate and now to the Presidency.

How interesting it was to watch the transition of power play out with much pomp and circumstance today. But in the morning, the party will be over and the real work will begin for our new leader and his team.

This is a time of great concern in our nation. I believe our new President is equipped to meet the challenges he faces. It will not be easy, and things may not improve as quickly as some people would like. He is after all only one man, and not a perfect man...there will be missteps along the way. Still, I have reason to hope that the next four years will be good for America.

Bye, George!

2009-01-19T16:37:00.002-06:00

Well, the Bush Administration is almost over...finally. Just a few more hours, and Dubya will go back to Texas and become part of history.

It's almost sad that a presidency that could have had promise descended into such lows. He squandered every bit of goodwill he had and leaves office with a 22 percent approval rating. We're in two wars, the economy is a mess...things are just bad.

Here was a man who surrounded himself with the wrong people, and made a lot of bad decisions. Maybe he thought he was doing right...sure would be interesting to see what goes on in that man's head.

He won't go down as the worst, but certainly far from one of the best.

Happy Trails, Mr. Bush...I hope we do not "meet" again for a long time.

2009 Begins

2009-01-03T20:01:00.001-06:00

Well, a new year is upon us. 2008 started pretty well for me, but by the end I was not much further ahead than I had been in 2007. I am hopeful that the mixed back of the past year will give way to personal and professional success in the coming one.

Here's hoping for good things in 2009!

Holiday Recap

2008-12-29T20:14:00.003-06:00

Had a nice Christmas. Pretty low key, but that is how we like it around here. Got a few nice gifts...a couple sportcoats, pants, a book, a calendar...mostly "functional" items.

We went to a couple after Christmas sales Friday. The mall was insane, but I did grab a $4 pair of slippers at Herbergers, and later picked up holiday cards for next season at World Market for about $4 a box...not bad.

It was an interesting week with a puppy running around...my sister's combined birthday and Christmas gift was a dog. She's had him since Mid-Nov, and he is cute as hell...sure keeps us on our toes though, especially with the cats. They are happy he has gone back to his home so they can have the run of the house again.

Two more days in 2008...where did the year go?

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T14:11:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas to everyone out there in the blogosphere!

No Internet=Annoying

2008-12-19T14:39:00.003-06:00

I've determined this week just how annoying it is not to have internet and email access when you expect to. Ours has been on and off since Sunday night and we are unsure of the problem despite a visit from the Comcast guy.

It is amazing how dependent upon it I am in my daily life.

Happy Holidays...From the Coal Industry?

2008-12-11T16:55:00.002-06:00

Hard to believe it has been more than a month since I have blogged. I seem to be in a sort of funk lately and lacking motivation to write. I think I need to get back to it, however.

Can't believe it is the middle of December already! I spent a good deal of time the last couple of days writing and sending off Holiday greetings to folks. It seems everyone is getting into the spirit--including America's coal industry. I'm not entirely sure what their advertising people were smoking when they came up with this, which I happened to see on last night's Rachel Maddow Show.

The Clean Coal Carolers

Witness to History

2008-11-08T12:49:00.002-06:00

This post is a few days late, but it is the first chance I have had to sit down and blog since Tuesday's election. America made history that day as we elected our first African American president; as the citizens of our country sent a clear message that we need serious change to the current direction of this country.

Mom and I were there on Tuesday evening as Barack Obama gave his victory speech. Yes, we were blocks down, behind a fence, watching on jumbotrons...but we were in Grant Park to witness history in the making along with 250,000 others.

Friends in Chicago had warned it might not be a good idea...that it would be too crazy. Yes, it was crazy, but people were really nice, and well mannered. They were showing CNN on the screen before he spoke, and while people clapped and cheered when Obama took a state, there was not an outcry when McCain did. A few boos in the crowd, but nothing out of hand. No one went nuts, and no one rioted in the downtown streets.

We did agree that we'd never seen so many people in one place before. It was quite the experience.

And now, it will be interesting to watch the next steps unfold, as President-Elect Obama puts together his administration-January 20,2009 can't come soon enough.

It All Comes Down to Tomorrow...

2008-11-03T15:31:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow is Tuesday, November 4th 2008...Election Day.

Most of us will be glad to say goodbye to the seemingly never ending stream of ads on both sides. But before we do, we must exercise our rights...

No Matter who you support....VOTE!

Remember Minnesotans...we have same day registration!

**These voting PSAs were posted by YouTube users AtheneWins and tyleroakley, respectively.

Bachmann's Big Mouth May Cost Her

2008-10-24T16:04:00.002-05:00

Recent polls indicate that Michele Bachmann's off the wall remarks recently may cost her dearly. Both KSTP/Survey USA and MPR polls say her numbers are slipping.

Good news in my book.

Is This The Dumbest Person In Congress?

2008-10-21T17:09:00.002-05:00

By now, I am sure most people out there have seen this clip:

Honestly, this woman is an embarrassment to the state of Minnesota. I implore those living in her district to get her out of office on November 4th.

For Inquiring Minds

2008-09-23T23:39:00.002-05:00

I did not receive the position I interviewed for last week. Disappointing, but it is a tough job market with a LOT of people in it. I know many in the same situation as I, and in some cases we have learned we are/were applicants for the same jobs! The world is small indeed.

On to the next, a phone interview later in the week.

Another Interview...

2008-09-16T00:21:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday. This one's out of town so I will be traveling there tomorrow...or later today, I guess, it is after midnight.

I think I have a decent shot and they will be deciding within a matter of days, so I could have a job soon.

Wish me luck!

Four Years

2008-09-04T16:23:00.000-05:00

Four years ago yesterday, I started blogging.

Wow.

That Time of Year Again...

2008-08-29T23:54:00.003-05:00

It's back to school time. This means that for the past week I have had a longing--a longing to be back on a college campus....as a student, as staff...as anything.

I think the longing is stronger this year, because in my original "grand plan" I hoped to be doing both by now...working on a campus, and working on a Master's. And I got close. But, as life sometimes goes, it was not meant to be.

The summer has been slow. Anyone looking for work right now knows the market is tight and there are lots of qualified people on the hunt. Makes it hard for a young professional like me, who has a lot of drive and good qualities, but not a lot of experience. A couple of interviews have been had, but I am still hunting.

It's left me thinking a lot about what my next step needs to be. There are a few options:

A) Let it ride--keep trying to get back into a higher ed. environment and worry about Master's stuff after. Probably not the best plan, as it has not worked for me to this point.

B) Give up the search for higher ed. work temporarily. Find a job doing whatever, and focus on getting into graduate school for Fall 09, preferably with an assistantship, at a location TBD.

C) Seek admission to a local program on a part time basis to start this spring. Find work either inside or outside the field. Drawback is that I would be starting at an off time and would miss the chance to go through the program in a cohort.

D) Seek admission to an online program with a cohort starting this spring. Would provide a degree of flexibility the other options would not in when/where I work while going to school. Not an option I had previously considered, but I came across a program that looks pretty strong earlier this week from a very reputable place.

There are certainly some pros and cons to each of these choices. I do know this--I need a job, and I also need to settle on a plan to continue my education. I was pretty settled on "B" but part of me itches to get back into the academic arena, knowing that many more doors will open with those extra letters behind my name, so why prolong the wait?

Decisions...

Sarah Who?

2008-08-29T13:43:00.001-05:00

This one came from left field...

McCain Taps Palin For V.P.

The Real Deal

2008-08-28T23:36:00.002-05:00

Quite the speech tonight!

I really don't see how McCain can match.

Obama is the real deal.

History of the Political Kind

2008-08-27T22:57:00.004-05:00

History has been made...Barack Obama is the first ever African American candidate for President of the United States.

I haven't watched as much of the convention as one might expect. While I am interested in politics, I don't watch CNN for hours on end...except maybe on election night.

I did catch Hillary Clinton's address last night, and she seemed to do a good job of endorsing him and motivating her supporters to do the same, the message being that if they supported her because of what she stands for, then they should be on board with Obama. While McCain wants to court her supporters, the fact of the matter is very few will go for him...I know I would not vote for a polar opposite candidate out of primary bitterness.

I thought it was a good symbolic gesture that she was the one who called for an end to the roll call and his nomination by acclimation...another sign that they are trying to unify the party.

Admittedly, I don't know a ton about Joe Biden, but from what I can see he does bring a lot of experience to the ticket. And whether one agrees with him or not, after seeing his speech tonight, it's hard to argue his ability to deliver an energizing address and fire people up.

Will be interesting to see how Obama defines himself tomorrow evening.

Back to Bemidji, One Year Later

2008-08-02T15:40:00.003-05:00

I returned yesterday from my first trip back to Bemidji since I graduated, to attend the MCPA Board meeting. While I ended up feeling icky yesterday and opted to return with my carpool instead of staying until today and taking the bus back as planned, it was still a nice return to the place I spent my college years.

We made it Thursday night in near record time, thanks to my recommendation of a shortcut well known to anyone who has done the Cities to Bemidji trip a few times...Highway 64 instead of 371. Upon arriving in town, I saw that a few things have changed, but not much....couple of new fast food places and a bank.

A few of us went out for a bit, ending up at the popular Bar 209. It was nice to get to know a few of my new board colleagues informally. We chatted about our history in student affairs and swapped a few random stories. We got to talking about finding our names on the internet/Googling ourselves, and I mentioned the time I got misquoted by the CyberIndee in Winona. To my surprise, one of them said he'd seen my blog entry...which means he must really have read my archives considering the entry was in 2005.

The meeting was good, and it was nice to be back on campus and see a couple of folks. I told one it was like being home...I love that place. I'm also looking forward to my new involvement this year. It is a good group of people, and especially nice as a way to stay engaged right now with professional discourse as I seek new employment.

I Can Relate...

2008-07-29T17:07:00.001-05:00

I agree with Loralee...I'm a terrible texter. Yet, I do more of it lately because it is the way of things. I've even thought a couple of times about getting a smart phone so I can IM, email, and access my calendar when I don't have my computer along on trips and such. But...I don't know if I can justify the cost to myself.

Classy...

2008-07-23T16:28:00.001-05:00

A "Dear Applicant" letter with my name spelled wrong on the address sticker.

Sad.

It's Time For Some Campaignin'

2008-07-23T16:25:00.001-05:00

If you haven't seen the latest from JibJab, watch...it's quite funny.

Return to Routine

2008-07-10T15:16:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm back home and back to the routine. As tiring as it is to travel back to back like that, it's totally worth it. I had a couple of very nice trips, and lots of family time. Two things I have always enjoyed are fishing with Dad and spending time with his family (My Grandparents and Aunt) in Colorado. I feel fortunate I was able to get a chance to do both this summer. Being between jobs is not fun, but when some fun things can be interspersed with the searching it keeps one sane.

And Now to Colorado...

2008-07-02T10:16:00.001-05:00

Back from one trip and leaving on another. Heading to Colorado today to visit relatives for a few days. Happy Fourth of July!

Gone Fishing...

2008-06-22T23:03:00.001-05:00

Headed with Dad to one of our favorite lakes for some fishing and relaxation.

See you in a week, blogosphere!

RIP: NBC's Russert

2008-06-13T18:41:00.002-05:00

I'm sure many followers of national politics such as myself have spent a lot of time over the years listening to his commentary on NBC.

NBC's Tim Russert dead at 58

Congrats!

2008-06-13T18:40:00.001-05:00

Big congrats to Aspen on her Master's and new job in Colorado!

Job Search: Round 2

2008-06-13T16:06:00.002-05:00

Is going ok. Obviously, the market is tight...and even tighter in a line of work that is sometimes tight even when the market is better. I'm now back to the familiar routine of searching websites and doing cover letters, sending lots of email and snail mail, and in between doing tasks such as blogging, laundry and dishes. Today for instance, I'm running stuff through the dishwasher trying to clean it.

I have broken up the routine a bit...Friday was an MCPA board meeting, Tuesday I had lunch with some old friends, and yesterday lunch with a former coworker and attended a retirement reception for another. People seemed happy that I stopped in...there is no "bad blood" there which is a good thing.

Is this what I wanted to be doing right now? Not by a long shot. But it is part of life that sometimes things do not work out as planned. My hope is that the experience I have now, even a few months, puts me in a better position as far as being considered than I was at this time last year. All I can do is press forward.

Happy Birthday to Me

2008-05-26T19:34:00.002-05:00

On Thursday, I turned 24.

On Friday. I was told that I am being let go from my job at the end of this week, Friday May 30.

What a great B-Day present huh?

Back to the drawing board.

Survived

2008-05-18T21:34:00.002-05:00

Finals week wrapped yesterday, and we made it through. It went pretty well, and now things will quiet down a bit before summer classes start. Summer, predictably, will be quieter than the regular school year.

The Calm Before the Storm

2008-05-10T14:51:00.002-05:00

I am sitting here having a quiet weekend. This is a good thing, because starting Monday, work is going to get VERY busy for a few days. Finals are upon us...well, upon the students, but it means some long days for staff in areas such as mine as well. I'll be putting in 12 hour days all week, and working on Saturday. I will be tired, but I don't mind...I want to see what it is like in our office during a finals week. It'll be interesting being on the "other side" of an exam week.

Moe Won't Seek 3rd Term in MN 4A

2008-04-22T20:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I was surprised to read on "Blue Man in a Red District" that Frank Moe, who represents Bemidji in the Minnesota House, will not seek a third term in November.

While I think he has good reasons for taking a break from politics (finishing a doctorate and spending more time with his wife), the House is losing a great public servant with his departure. He's the kind of guy who went into politics for the right reasons...he saw things he wanted to change, got energized and got involved.

As a long time student leader at Bemidji State, I especially appreciated his advocacy on behalf of the University and its students.

Even though I no longer live there, I still care about my "second hometown" of five years and many memories, and it will be interesting to see who steps up to run in his place.

Catching Up With an Old Friend

2008-04-21T23:24:00.001-05:00

Today I took a little time to catch up with an old friend. I'd not seen him in almost 4 years. It was really nice to just take some time and visit over lunch. It's a shame we let so much time lapse between meetings, but sometimes life gets in the way. Told him we have to make sure now that we are back in the same area that our next get together is a month or two away, not years.

Keep track of good friends, they are important in life.

What I'm Up To...

2008-04-11T23:19:00.002-05:00

Have not enjoyed the slushy snow...the 60s can't come soon enough!
Had a nice get together with some MSUSA alums last week.
Met with a financial advisor a friend referred me to to look at the best ways to manage my money.
Have been learning how to take on my closest coworker's duties, as she will be out a week for surgery starting Tuesday and I will fill in.
Went through my first performance review today and it was good overall. Supervisor and I generally agreed on strengths and areas for improvement; glad we are on the same page.
Semi-suspended the apartment search for the moment--was not finding what I wanted and realize the wisdom in holding off at least a couple more months.
Discovered my profile on the BSU Admissions website...I am literally a poster boy.

The Apartment Search

2008-03-30T19:55:00.003-05:00

I'm still here. It seems this thing is only getting updated about weekly now. So be it, I guess.

I have spent a lot of time the past two weeks beginning my search for an apartment. I want to move somewhere in Minneapolis, closer to work and the bus line, sometime in the next few months. I don't mind living at home, as I really do get along with my parents, but I think finding a place is the next step in my transition to "real life"

I can see this is going to be a challenge. I don't know of any folks looking for places at the moment, so I'm looking for somewhere alone. I don't want to go the random roommate route--It works for some, but is not something I would generally be comfortable with.

My criteria are pretty simple: studio or one bedroom, within a block or two of the busline, and semi-accessible...enough that I could bring my scooter home if the need arose and get it in the building.

Problem: Most of the buildings in the areas I'd like to live, at least in my price range, are old...thus they have no elevators and lots of stairs, including in the building entryways. That is not going to work. Mom and I drove around various neighborhoods in the city yesterday, and we noticed that was the situation in many cases. We also stopped in to see a free rental consultant who confirmed that finding a place I can afford that meets those seemingly simple criteria may be difficult...most places will meet one or two, but not all three.

I did tour one studio in a building she referred me to that *might* be coming open in June. The owner was checking availability and I have to follow up tomorrow. It seemingly fits all my basic criteria, but I am not sure I was "feeling it." The layout of the place reminded me so much of my old single with bath dorm room in Maple...it was larger, but the room was shaped the same way and I just didn't get a very "homey" vibe from it. I've got calls and emails out to some other properties as well, and am hoping to be able to set up some more showings this week or next. I want to get a better idea of what else is out there.

Wish me luck!

Spring Break

2008-03-20T14:27:00.002-05:00

This week the U of M has been on Spring Break.

Contrary to popular belief, I have not gotten a Spring Break. I've worked this week. What does a University employee do in a student services office when there are no students around, you ask?

Clean, organize, go through old files...all good things to do, but I will be glad for a day off tomorrow!

TGI (my) F!

I Have Not Disappeared

2008-03-15T06:54:00.002-05:00

So, I've been a bit MIA from the blog lately. I notice it has been 10 days since my last update. I've been busy with work, and distracted by other things. But, I assure you, dear readers, that I haven't disappeared and everything is fine.

Hopefully, I will have time to catch up with reading, writing and commenting in the next few days. For now, I'm preparing to leave for a quick, last minute jaunt to Grandma's with Mom...down today, back tomorrow...lots of time in the car for us.

Have a good weekend out there!

Dems Battle it Out

2008-03-05T09:03:00.002-06:00

Well, it looks like half the 2008 presidential race is figured out. McCain clinched the Republican nod...no major surprise there.

On the Democratic side, it appears Hillary has a slight bump in momentum, but Obama is still ahead in delegates and neither is yet close to the number needed to secure their nomination.

My opinion? A McCain-Clinton match up would be far less interesting than McCain-Obama. Clinton and McCain are two "old pols" it seems...Obama may provide more contrast. It's time for a new generation in the "upper level" of American Politics.

It'll be interesting to see the rest of this race play out.

See more political coverage from CNN

Marking a Month

2008-02-28T20:12:00.002-06:00

Today was exactly the one month mark at my job.

I'm starting to feel like it's home and I really belong there. It's a very good thing.

And, my prediction that I would run into a student I knew sooner or later came true when an old classmate from high school came in to pick up his accommodation letters. Small world.

Upgrade Time

2008-02-26T08:38:00.001-06:00

Last night I upgraded my MacBook to Leopard.

Fun stuff.

2008-02-25T08:33:00.001-06:00

Over the weekend, I went down to SW MN State for MSUSA's Diversity Conference. I participated in a discussion of the challenges facing students with disabilities as a presenter. It was interesting being there, at a conference for the first time since April, and as a professional "expert" rather than a student.

I feel so adult.

Starbucks...

2008-02-21T12:55:00.002-06:00

I'm not a coffee drinker, but I like Chai latte on occasion.

Occasion used to be once every couple of months. Now I work near a Starbucks that can be accessed via underground tunnel from my office, and once every couple of months has turned into once every couple of days...which is expensive and can't be good for me, either.

Damn you, Starbucks Stadium Village!

That Thing Called "Texting"

2008-02-20T15:22:00.002-06:00

I've blogged before about my dislike for text messaging.

Well, I may be changing my tune a bit. For the last couple of months I've been paying several dollars a month in casual text charges. I think it's time to accept that people are going to text me...and I will read them and reply, but there is no way I am going to keep paying Sprint's 20 cent fee per message to send/receive.

Now, I know I could simply add text messaging to my current plan and be done with it. But, if you know me you know why I hated texting in the first place...I type slow to begin with so pounding out messages on a regular phone keypad where you need to push a button 3-5 times to get your desired character...not so fun.

Solution: Get a smart phone or a phone with an included QWERTY keypad.

Problem with that? Even though I am eligible for a phone upgrade in April, that would require me signing a new contract AGAIN, which I already had to do in October, leaving me locked in to my current carrier until April 2010. While I have no overwhelming complaints about them, they are not faring well with customers lately and others are beginning to look more attractive.

My Options:

1) Renew in April for another two years and get a break on the phone I want then.
2) Spend $300-plus on the type of phone I want in order to avoid contract renewal.
3) Pay the $200 to exit my contract and port the number to another carrier (T-Mobile gets good reviews from some friends, and ATT is the home of iPhone, although I would not pop for one of those initially.)
4) Keep my current phone for the duration of the contract

Anyone out there want to comment on the cell phone racket, or endorse their carrier, phone or plan?

My Standoff With Wild Turkeys

2008-02-20T15:14:00.002-06:00

This morning while waiting for the bus, three wild turkeys wandered in my direction. They decided they were going to circle me. This lasted a good ten minutes until the bus showed up...then they would not move for the bus. The driver and passengers were laughing heartily and I was dubbed "Turkey Man"

A rather strange way to begin a Wednesday morning commute in the suburbs.

What's Your Feed Reader of Choice?

2008-02-19T20:38:00.003-06:00

A few months ago I started experimenting with feed readers to keep track of the blogs I enjoy.

First I tried Shrook.

Now I'm using Net News Wire and overall like it better. The problem? I tried synching with a free NewsGator account online and the online version says I have tons more unread posts than I actually do, and doesn't display my flagged items. Since I like to read entries and flag for later comment, I need to see those flagged items whether I'm on my MacBook, the family iMac, my iMac at the office or another machine.

Could Google Reader be worth a try?

Readers: Comment--what feed reader do you use and why?

Into Week Three...

2008-02-12T09:12:00.000-06:00

I've now begun week three of the new job, and things continue to go well. As the days pass, I become more familiar with routines and practices. I am becoming more comfortable, feeling as though I belong and am not simply a visitor in a strange place. I am no longer mistaken for a student by the student workers.

It's a good feeling.

Why Apple Care is Worth It

2008-02-06T21:33:00.000-06:00

The other night I was burning CDs and got a sudden error message. My drive stopped reading CDs entirely, all it did was spit them out.

Yesterday I spent an hour plus on the phone with Apple, and made an appointment to visit my local Apple Store tonight. They quickly diagnosed that my SuperDrive motor had burned out, and luckily had a replacement in stock. The repair was done in a half an hour.

As an added bonus, they cleaned my machine up and replaced the top case, which had become stained, as is somewhat common with white MacBooks.

Cost for all this? $0

Lesson? Go for Apple Care extended warranty up front, it will pay for itself when the inevitable happens and something needs fixing.

One Week In...

2008-02-02T22:36:00.000-06:00

Well, I survived week one on the job. It was a lot of just getting comfortable there and learning the basics. But I am happy to report that I have taken care of my "new guy" stuff.

I have email
I have access to all the necessary department databases
I have signed up for benefits
I have my ID card, which also acts as my key

It's funny being the new guy just because there are so many things I don't yet know. Luckily everyone has been very helpful, including the student workers...many of whom think I am one of them until I remind them I'm actually staff. I guess it is to be expected when one is young and working in a college environment.

All in all, it's enjoyable so far, I think I am going to like it there. Now I just have to train my body not to hate the 5:30 am wake up call.

The First Day

2008-01-28T23:08:00.000-06:00

For any who may wonder, Day One at the U went well. It was rather uneventful...typical first day stuff. I met lots of people and was given far too much new information that I probably won't remember until I do the tasks. I can't really do very much until I get all the necessary usernames and logins to access the systems--email, database, calendering app, etc. I am told that by morning I should "officially exist" as an employee--that is I'll have my internet ID, be in the online directory and be able to get a U Card.

Some things I will like about this job:

Coworkers seem great.
Casual dress...jeans are ok!
I get to use a Mac!
I will learn a LOT
and so much more...

All in all, this is going to be a very good thing!

Working Man

2008-01-25T15:15:00.000-06:00

Any reader who has been following my blog since May knows that I have been engaged in a search for work in student affairs and services at a college or university since graduating from BSU.

I am happy to report that after much contact with the department in the past several weeks, which I mentioned in previous posts, I have been asked to join an office at the University of Minnesota. I had an official interview yesterday morning, and had accepted an offer by 3:30 PM

The pay is decent, good health coverage, and I will be eligible for their staff tuition benefit, which will allow me to continue my education part time at little or no cost. And the people I will be working with seem great.

It's everything I could ask for in a job to begin my desired career, and it starts Monday!

Back For Another Year

2008-01-23T16:07:00.000-06:00

Morgan is teaching another group of BSU students to love blogging, and wiki writing too!

The class is just beginning. If any of you out there are curious about what got me started blogging, check them out:

Weblogs and Wikis course site
Weblogs and Wikis Daybook

Answers

2008-01-18T15:18:00.000-06:00

Question: What kills a seemingly healthy 22 year old with no warning?
Answer: Wilson's Disease.

If you're a reader from Minnesota, you may have noticed a story in the Star Tribune today about my friend and colleague who passed away just after Thanksgiving. Apparently he had a rare disorder that causes copper to build up in the organs, leading to organ failure.

Definitely something I've not heard of before.

My Blog's Story, Revisited

2008-01-17T16:39:00.000-06:00

Loralee recently posted about how she got started blogging, and how the BSU Blogs and Wikis course has played a role in her blogging adventure.

Of course, this blog began as a result of that class. And nearly three and a half years and 600 plus posts later, it is still here. I took a look at my Final Reflection from back then, and while some things have changed, others have stayed the same.

Then: I posted nearly every day.
Now: I post more sporadically...a few times a week.

Then: I wrote about academics and Student Senate.
Now: I write about job searching, politics, and life after college.

Then: I practiced a degree of self censorship.
Now: I still do.

Then: I read the blogs of classmates and a handful of others.
Now: I read upwards of 100 blogs of friends, old classmates and profs, and many others. I have "blog friends." Thank god for feed readers!

Then: I contributed to multiple blogs.
Now: I still do, some public, some more private.

Then: I contemplated moving my blog.
Now: I still do...most often to Word Press, now that there is a free version.

But no matter where this blog ends up, it will still be. I love it!

Apple's MacBook Air

2008-01-15T14:30:00.000-06:00

Today, Apple released several new products. Among them is a super thin new laptop dubbed "MacBook Air"

The laptop looks neat and is indeed ultra-portable, but I have to wonder if it will appeal to very many average consumers, at least initially. The price is significantly higher than other MacBooks, and there is no optical drive or wired ethernet connection point. So, unless you've got wireless AND a second machine to use simultaneously while installing software and etc. you're out of luck.

Cool product indeed, but I doubt it will be an instant "must have" like iPhone.

BSU Mac Project Gets Major Buzz

2008-01-15T14:23:00.000-06:00

Last year, my alma mater began making the transition to an all-Mac campus. Some recent articles on the topic:

Apple Education-Bemidji State University

Campus Technology-BSU Standardizes on Apple Hardware for Dual Boot Initiative

Pretty cool, in my opinion.

(Note: This is the 600th post on "Berne's World")

Slow Week

2008-01-10T13:33:00.000-06:00

I'm noticing I haven't been blogging much lately...not really much going on worth noting. It has been a slow week.

We had relatives visit last weekend, and had a nice visit. Unfortunately, mom was sick the entire time and still is. Food poisoning, we think. Not a good thing.

The job wheels are turning, albeit slowly. Hit a snag but think it is fixed now. More waiting....

Progress...

2008-01-04T15:45:00.000-06:00

Alicia Asks:
*hopping up and down like a little kid* Any news yet? Any news yet? Anything?!(Must selfishly know...) ;P

I can now say that I have an official application in for a posted position and my contact says she'll be in touch. The wheels are turning.

In other news today:

Obama Wins Iowa: It will be interesting to see how this plays out. It's a major feather in his cap, but I think it is too early to call anyone the front runner on either side. I'm somewhat surprised to see Huckabee break the top tier for Republicans as well, but he may be too far right for most of the country.

Britney Breaks Down: Is this honestly a surprise to anyone? The woman is such a trainwreck it's not even funny anymore, it's downright pitiful.

Welcome to 2008!

2008-01-01T00:20:00.001-06:00

So Long, 2007

2007-12-31T20:25:00.000-06:00

This has been an interesting year. I would have to say it has not been my best. I've had a lot of ups and downs, and many stressors, some I've blogged about here and others I have not. Overall, I am glad to see this year go, and look forward to seeing what 2008 has to offer.

Christmas Weekend 2007

2007-12-26T15:39:00.000-06:00

I had a nice, relaxing, somewhat low key Christmas weekend.

Saturday: Did my shopping while Mom went to the grocery store. Was quite aggravated by it. Note to self: Stick to the SuperTarget near home. Going to other Targets that are arranged differently is confusing.

Sunday: Helped clean and bake cookies, watched movies.

Monday: Lazy morning for me. Mom finished baking. Dad was working and so was Jena, so Mom and I went to an open house some friends were having. Dad cooked the traditional steak dinner, although the meat was poor this time...we will not be getting steaks from that grocery store for a while! Waited up for Jena to get home from Duluth and went to bed.

Tuesday: Was up around 10:3o and we sat and watched TV for awhile. Jena was not feeling well but we woke her up long enough to open gifts about 2 pm...probably the latest Christmas "morning" I can remember. Made the usual calls to relatives. Mom, Dad and I went to see family friends for Christmas dinner, which was a very nice time. Upon arriving back home, met Jena's new boyfriend who had come over.

What I Got:

"Bad President" page a day calendar that counts down Bush's days in office.
A new all-in-one printer/copier/scanner to replace my aging printer that sounds as if it could die any time.
A black cashmere overcoat...I had commented recently that my other winter jackets are not really appropriate to wear when I am dressed up for interviews, weddings, or whatever.
A scarf to go with the coat.
A new pair of slippers.
A deodorant/cologne gift set
Some stationery items since I enjoy sending people notes from time to time.
Some Reese's candy

All nice things that will prove useful to me.

A Merry Christmas indeed.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-24T18:13:00.000-06:00

Wishing the best to everyone out there in blog land. We will have our traditional steak dinner tonight and tomorrow will join another family, some of our oldest friends, for supper.

Merry Christmas!!

Troublemaking Animals...

2007-12-21T18:59:00.000-06:00

Lint is meowing and jumping in my lap, so I figure she wants food. Upon going downstairs, I notice it is quite cold. I round the corner into the kitchen. What do I find?

The back door is wide open and Pumpkin is walking in off the porch.

That's right...Pumpkin OPENED THE DOOR and LET HERSELF OUT.

Cats...

Looking For The Perfect Holiday Gift?

2007-12-15T13:47:00.000-06:00

If you are looking for the perfect holiday gift, or perhaps just a laugh, our friend Matt has some ideas, folks:

MRLT Culture Guru--Holiday Gift Guide

(Yes, I know the Frat Brother gifts are "rated R"...just laugh at the description and avoid clicking the link, boys and girls)

In Suspense

2007-12-14T14:27:00.000-06:00

Alicia Says:
After the holidays?! I don't think I can wait that long to find out! :D

Neither can I. The suspense is going to drive me crazy.

The Blog and Facebook Conundrum

2007-12-12T14:54:00.000-06:00

I want to take a minute to address something that's been bothering me lately: the demise of some of my favorite blogs. In the years I have been a part of the blogosphere I have seen many come and go, it is a natural cycle.

Recently, though I am starting to notice people dropping their blogs (and Facebook) for reasons beyond being tired of them. I'm seeing great blogs die because the writers are becoming overwhelmed with a feeling of overexposure or are tired of dingbats leaving nasty comments under the guise of "Anonymous."

It's really sad. While I am fully aware that we all have to watch ourselves online, blogs are supposed to be a medium of free expression. They are supposed to be the writer's domain. Obviously there is a line...we shouldn't be writing slanderous lies about our friends and enemies, but being authentic should be applauded.

Am I authentic? Yes. Could I be more so? Yes, but some personal details need not be revealed just for revelation's sake.

When did openness and honesty in blogging become a bad thing?

Now, even my MOTHER has begun to question me about my blog and Facebook profile. I had to remind her of two things:

1) I have studied blogging and writing online
2) I participated in several discussions about Facebook profiles and the ability of employers to see your online identity.

Thus, I do not believe there is anything on this blog, or on my Facebook page, that I would fear getting out there. I'm pretty sure I've scarecely used a swear word on here in 3+ years with the exception of "hell" which is debatable as a cuss word to begin with.

And in fact, the ability to function in an online world may actually prove a benefit in my professional life over time, since email/blogs/Facebook etc. are the ways students communicate, and even staff communicate, to a degree that will grow over time.

What do you think?

Meeting Went Well

2007-12-12T14:35:00.000-06:00

The meeting I had yesterday went very well. Thank you to all that had crossed fingers. I'll have a better idea of things after the holidays.

A Lead...

2007-12-07T16:57:00.000-06:00

I was called by someone in one of the offices at the U of M. She and her supervisor want to talk to me about some ideas and a possible position. Scheduled to meet with them at 10 on Tuesday.

Could things be looking up?

Celebrating Our Friend

2007-12-04T21:45:00.000-06:00

This morning I attended the services for Jared. It was a packed house...the kid was sure loved by many, many people. It was nice to see so many of the current and former student leaders of MSUSA there. It's often said that the association is like a large fraternity or extended family. And just like a family, people may not always agree but in the end they come together to support one another.

There were plenty of tears and lots of hugs, but also lots of laughter. His sister told a few great stories, and the pastor remarked about having Googled him and coming across the posts from I Don't Hate America. "I'm not sure the meaning of that, but I'm glad you don't" he said, eliciting a chuckle from many of us.

In another funny moment, Jared's father came over to our table during the after-service gathering. Upon learning I was a grad of BSU, he tried to get me to sing the school song and do the school cheer, since he attended BSU as well. One problem--I am a bad Beaver and can't do either from memory. He started singing and the entire table cracked up. As JJ said, we know where Jared got his sense of humor.

I'll close this entry with a quotation of Jared's that I have seen in several places the last few days as folks have reflected on his life. It speaks to his passion for leadership and is really how those of us that are student leaders or who strive to work with students professionally should look at each day. It will also be placed in the sidebar as the first of my new "Quotable Quotes" series.

"I know it sounds corny, but at the end of each day, I ask myself, 'What have I done for students today?' And if I can't answer that question, then I have to put students first the next day."
-Jared Paul Stene 1985-2007

A Sad Evening-RIP

2007-11-29T23:55:00.000-06:00

Earlier today, I found out that a friend and longtime colleague during my time in MSUSA had fallen gravely ill.

Tonight, Jared Stene passed away.

He was a great guy, a great student leader, and a friend to so many of us. It's hard to believe he's gone, at age 22, and so unexpectedly. I guess it is a sobering reminder that none of us know how long we have and we must live each day to the fullest, as I have no doubt he did.

Rest in Peace, buddy. You'll be missed.

**Update** See other tributes at:

I Don't Hate America
Blue Man In A Red District
Bluestem Prarie

In the Year 2029

2007-11-29T23:07:00.000-06:00

I received this as an email last week and got quite a charge out of it.

HEADLINES FROM THE YEAR: 2029

Ozone created by electric cars now killing millions in the seventh largest country in the world, Mexifornia, formerly known as California White minorities still trying to have English recognized as Mexifornia's third language.

Spotted Owl plague threatens northwestern United States crops and livestock.

Baby conceived naturally! Scientists stumped.

Couple petitions court to reinstate heterosexual marriage.

Iran still closed off; physicists estimate it will take at least 10 more years before radioactivity decreases to safe levels.

France pleads for global help after being taken over by Jamaica. No other country comes forward to help the beleaguered nation!

Castro finally dies at age 112; Cuban cigars can now be imported legally, but President Chelsea Clinton has banned all smoking.

George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2036.

Postal Service raises price of first class stamp to $17.89 and reduces mail delivery to Wednesdays only.

85-year $75.8 billion study: Diet and exercise is the key to weight loss.

Average weight of Americans drops to 250 lbs.

Global cooling blamed for citrus crop failure for third consecutive year in Mexifornia and Cubofloria.

Japanese scientists have created a camera with such a fast shutter speed they now can photograph a woman with her mouth shut.

Abortion clinics now available in every
High School in United States.

Senate still blocking drilling in ANWR even though gas is selling for 4532 Pesos per liter and gas stations are only open on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Massachusetts executes last remaining conservative.

Supreme Court rules punishment of criminals violates their civil rights.

Average height of NBA players is now nine feet, seven inches.

New federal law requires that all nail clippers, screwdrivers, fly swatters and rolled-up newspapers must be registered by January 2030 .

IRS sets lowest tax rate at 75 percent.

Cubofloria voters still having trouble with voting machines.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-22T13:27:00.000-06:00

HAPPY TURKEY DAY!

Eat lots, have fun, be safe!

Resumes

2007-11-20T14:25:00.000-06:00

I've been spending a lot of time recently trying to work on improving my resume. I had thought the one I was using was OK, until Mom looked at it last week. She'd been to some workshop at her work, and based on that said my resume was all wrong.

She Says:
-Too Long
-Too Vague
-Includes non-relevant information

I had originally been told by Career Services at BSU that as a new grad I shouldn't leave anything out, and that with all my leadership experience and honors, a two-pager was ok. Mom seems to think it shouldn't be more than a page.

I did send a couple of drafts to a 3rd party, someone I met at the MCPA conference who works at the U. He kept it at two pages and suggested additions...A skills section and a professional development piece.

Is this a case of the corporate world vs. the educational one? Who's correct in your opinion, readers?

This is very frustrating! I need a job...and I hope my resume is not a reason I haven't secured one.

Attention MSUSA Alums-Visit msusa.net!

2007-11-15T12:35:00.000-06:00

If you're an MSUSA alum who happens to read this blog:

We are taking the first steps toward getting organized.

Please go to the**New** MSUSA website and register on the Alumni page. You'll be added to their database and begin to receive updates.

Alumni Database Form

Questions? Contact Kari Winter in the MSUSA Office.

Only In Arkansas...

2007-11-15T12:31:00.000-06:00

Teacher Nails Raccoon for Students' Sake

via TeacherScribe

Cats, Keep Those Claws In!

2007-11-12T15:47:00.000-06:00

We had new furniture delivered on Saturday. Mom has decided to put off doing the floors until Spring, so she just went ahead and scheduled the delivery. The new chairs are great...big plush leather recliners in a mission style. They make our antique couch, which we used to think was a huge piece, look tiny.

Mom timed it...the delivery men were here and gone in exactly 9 minutes.

Thankfully, neither cat has tried to scratch the new stuff...lets hope that fact holds.

Another tidbit...
Mom and I both got $1 from Dad yesterday because he had said he didn't believe the weatherman and would give us $1 if it reached 57 or above yesterday. It was 63. 63 degrees in November...not too shabby.

NS: BSU to Reorganize Colleges

2007-11-08T16:59:00.000-06:00

I'd heard from some people at BSU that a restructuring plan had been presented, but I didn't know what it was until I happened to click on the Northern Student online edition. Pretty good article, and very interesting to me. I'm pasting it below because I have no idea how long the link will be good.

------

Senate Holds Meeting to Discuss Reorganization of Colleges
Written by Emily Halla~Staff Writer
Wednesday, 31 October 2007

A mixture of feedback and emotions flared around the crowded Crying Wolf room at Wednesday’s Student Senate meeting. In a different setting than usual for the Senate meeting, Bemidji State students came to learn more about the college reorganization proposals that could take effect next year on campus. Last spring, BSU went through a budget readjustment that resulted in the formation of a committee that worked throughout the summer to find ways to reorganize the colleges.
Through the brainstorming came two proposed models that members of the committee are looking to gain feedback on.

Currently, there are three main colleges within Bemidji State: the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Professional Studies, and the College of Social and Natural Sciences. The committee has reorganized the positioning of programs in the following two models:

Model 1: Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business and Technology, Health Sciences and Human Ecology. This model would consist of three areas of study, all having an academic dean and associate vice president and also an associate dean for arts and sciences, which would be a new position. The areas of study under this model are the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Technology, and the College of Health Sciences and Human Ecology.

The College of Arts and Sciences would include Art History, Biology, Chemistry, Communication Arts, English, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, History, Indian Studies, Mathematics, Modern Languages, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Sociology, Theatre, and Visual Arts.

The College of Business and Technology incorporates Accounting, Business, Computer Science, Economics, Mass Communication, and Technological Studies. Finally, the College of Health Sciences and Human Ecology contains the departments of Criminal Justice, Nursing, Physical Education/Health and Sport, Professional Education, Psychology and Social Work.

With this model, departments in the professional colleges and those in the College of Arts and Sciences will partner in agreed affiliations that would be reassessed during a five-year review and might rotate or change, depending on departmental developments and requests. This model would provide colleges with a primary focus and new opportunities for expansion while uniting departments for a more deliberate approach to liberal education programs.

Pat Rogers, the Dean of the College of Social and Natural Sciences acknowledged, “This model allows for growth of two smaller colleges [Arts and Sciences] and also helps shape the liberal education curriculum.”

Model 2: Signature Themes Colleges. This model, like the first, would also consist of three areas of study, each having an academic dean and associate vice president. The three colleges under this proposal would be the College of Civic Engagement, the College of Environmental Stewardship and the College of Global & Multicultural Understanding.

The College of Civic Engagement would include Communication Arts, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Philosophy, Physical Education/Health and Sport, Political Science, Professional Education, Psychology, Social Work, Theatre and Visual Arts. The College of Environmental Stewardship would contain Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Geology, Mass Communication, Mathematics, Physics and Technological Studies. The College of Global and Multicultural Understanding would consist of Accounting, Art History, Business, Computer Science, Economics, English, Indian Studies, Geography, History, Modern Languages, Music, and Sociology.

“This model allows growth for a different kind of synergy within departments. It gives college a flavor of signature themes and departments a shared vision,” Dean Rogers explained. The motivations proposed for this model substantiate university commitment to the signature themes by building them into an organizational structure. It would encourage cross-curriculum development by placing departments with shared interest within the same college while establishing secondary relationships with other colleges. It would also minimize department isolation and provide a new support for integrated learning.

Students hotly voiced concerns that if one of these models takes effect that their major, especially those that are smaller, would suffer as a result. Elizabeth Dunn, history professor and President of the BSU Faculty Association was quick to assure that the budget agreement didn’t consist of the removal of any department or faculty.

“Programs will still control their major in curriculum,” Dunn said. “There is no intent to further endanger small programs, but rather to help and protect them.”

As response kept circulating, there was also the question of whether this could have an overall negative effect upon students. “We’re trying to think of any decisions as long-term benefits to the university as a whole,” Dunn clarified.

Dean Rogers also addressed concerns by adding, “You all are affecting the future, and it really is very exciting.”

Towards the closing of the meeting, Nancy Michaels, a professor of English and committee member expressed her appreciation of the Student Senate and others that attended the meeting. “I’m glad the Senate has read and reviewed these models. I hope the students will engage in one model or the other. This is careful planning of how students would like to see what Bemidji State becomes,” Michaels said.

Students who would like to learn more about the reorganization of colleges and voice their opinions regarding this issue are encouraged to attend a meeting on Thursday, November 1 at 4:00 p.m. in the Crying Wolf Room.

Labels Update

2007-11-07T17:33:00.000-06:00

In case anyone out there relies on labels to search my archives, which I doubt, you may notice that the "School" classification has disappeared in favor of "BSU"

That is all.

MDN: Business School Goes All Mac

2007-11-07T16:57:00.000-06:00

Not long ago I noticed this article on MacDailyNews:

SMU Cox School of Business dumps PCs for Apple Macs

This is interesting to me, as BSU has been considering a similar move...the SuperLab is already all Mac. As the article suggests, the Mac switch provides the most options for users.

A smart move by SMU Cox.

The Weekend, Another Interview Down

2007-11-05T20:12:00.000-06:00

Had a good weekend. Went to lunch with JJ on Saturday and talked about a number of things including MSUSA, my job search, and his planning to switch to a Mac. Another convert.

Saturday evening Mom and I went to a middle eastern restaurant which doubled as a shisha bar. We did not have any shisha ourselves, but I now know what a hookah looks like...always wondered what the hell they were when friends referred to them last year.

On the job search front, I had another interview today. This time it was for a help desk position with a nonprofit that works with school districts on their software needs. It is a very different kind of position than I have been going for, but good experience nonetheless. The meeting went well, and the would-be coworkers seem nice. I guess they should be deciding by the end of the week, so it'll be nice to know fairly quickly as opposed to waiting 3 months for a final outcome as I've had to with some of my applications.

I Think My Number is "Recycled"

2007-11-02T11:49:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I changed my cell phone number.

Since then, I've gotten probably a half dozen calls from strange numbers at all hours of the day and night. The one time I did pick up it was some guy I could barely understand. Other times there is a "Missed Call" message on my screen but nothing in voicemail.

I think my number must have belonged to someone else at one point, and these must be his friends calling.

The Final Count

2007-11-01T11:29:00.000-05:00

Mom and I took guesses on how many Trick or Treaters we would see last night.

My guess was 5, hers was 9.

Actual count: 7

Boo!

2007-10-31T15:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!

Last night I was thinking about Halloweens past. It has always been an enjoyable holiday in our house, as it is one of Mom's favorites. While we did not decorate this year because of the other stuff she's working on, like painting the furniture, our home is usually the most decked out on the block. And as kids, our costumes were ALWAYS homemade, never from a package. I can remember dressing up as, in no particular order:

Pee Wee Herman
A Pirate
Dick Tracy
Chester Cheetah
A Viking
Sherlock Holmes
Mr. Peanut

I'm sure there were others but I can't recall. I know I stopped trick-or-treating several years before my sister, because at the time I did not have the stamina to walk the neighborhood just to get candy.

We have few trick or treaters anymore because the kids on the block have either outgrown it or moved. This year we are switching it up a bit and giving out fun size bags of Doritos and Cheetos.

Reader Inquiry: What is a "Penny Dinner?'"

2007-10-29T17:03:00.000-05:00

Sharon Says: I'm probably showing my ignorance, but exactly what is a 'penny' dinner?

A "Penny Dinner" is the annual fundraising dinner for MSUSA's Penny Fellowship Program. Along with the annual Golf Scramble, it is an opportunity to raise funds for scholarships which are distributed to MnSCU students completing internships in public service or government.

The "Penny" is actually Former Congressman Tim Penny, a board member and state chair of MSUSA during his time as a student at Winona State University. Mr. Penny founded the program with an endowment in 1987.

Penny Dinner

2007-10-27T18:29:00.000-05:00

Last night was a little bit of a reunion of sorts. I attended MSUSA's Penny Fellowship dinner. It was nice to get a chance to see so many people that I have not seen for a few months. And, I had a chance to hang out with the BSU folks for a little while as well.

As I sat and visited with my former delegation, I was once again reminded how I miss MSUSA conferences. Sure, they could be long, busy weekends, but there was always that aspect of having fun with friends too...laughing, joking and giving each other grief.

A nice evening indeed.

Report: Apple Mac on the Rise Among College Students

2007-10-25T23:18:00.000-05:00

Recently saw this on MacDailyNews:

Apple Mac on the rise among U.S. college students

According to a recent survey by SurveyU.com, Dell is currently the most popular computer brand among college students while Apple is building momentum due to the strength of their student purchase program and the halo-effect of the iPod.

SurveyU is a survey research organization that has established a representative panel of college students within the United States who share their opinions on a wide range of issues. The SurveyU community has been meticulously constructed within the United States. Our bottom-up methodology enables levels of accuracy on campus, state, regional and national levels that were previously impractical - either online or offline.

The success of Apple’s student program is a significant contributor to its on-campus momentum, with more than 4 out of 5 (83%) of Mac-owning students having purchased
their Mac under a student plan that includes an iPod with Mac computers sold to students. Slightly less than a third (30%) of Dell’s collegiate sales are made under a student plan, while the remaining computer manufacturers have not fully leveraged the power of student purchase programs.

The impact of the iPod on computer purchase decision-making is undeniable, with current iPod owners more likely to be current Mac users (29% versus 23%) as well as future Mac purchasers (52% versus 44%). Computer brand choice varies by gender, with female collegians more likely to choose Apple, Sony and Toshiba and male college students preferring Alienware, Dell and Lenovo brands. College students are mobile and their choice of desktop versus laptop reflects their demand for portability. More than 4 out of 5 college students use a laptop as their primary computer.

“US College students have spent an average of $1,290 on their computers, resulting in more than $22 billion spent by those currently in college.” said Dan Coates, co- founder of SurveyU, in the press release. ‘”Given that colleges are swelling to accommodate the massive Millennial generation, PC manufacturers would do well to get in front of this critical consumer segment."

One thousand online interviews were conducted between Thursday, October 18th 2007 and Sunday, October 21st, 2007. Respondents participate in the SurveyU panel of U.S. college students which has been meticulously constructed to represent college students nationally. Results were weighted to reflect the demographic composition of college students nationwide according to statistics published by the NCES (National Center for Educational Statistics).
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When I was selling Macs at BSU I did indeed notice more people switching over from PCs, as I did myself a little over a year ago. Apple is definitely doing something right reaching the college market.