insert-stuff-here

Vice President Scharman

2011-04-16T14:28:00.000-06:00

1. Please describe a way you will apply a leadership concept you have learned about this year as you lead in your family.

One of the most important leadership concepts that I look forward to implementing in my family would be family council. Just like we have a weekly stewardship and area meetings, I think it will be important to have a meeting as a full family. This could either be done at the end of FHE on Monday nights, or during family dinner during a set day of the week. By doing this, we will be able to stay on the same page with one another and be more informed of one another's lives.

2. Vice President Scharman talked about the importance of developing structure in your home based on your individual time commitments. Describe how you believe structure and order in your family life can help you lead in your family. How can some form of structure and routine help you develop leaders in your family?

I am addicted to Google Calendar. I love that thing. In my current single life, I use it to schedule out my time and keep track of my day to day activities. In a very bare sense, it gives me an idea of how I spend my time each day. Further, I have several different color-coded categories on my calendar (tongue twister!) that give me a quick visual of each of my weeks.

In my future family I can continue this tradition to account for our days. Structure and routine in each of our weeks will help us have greater communication. As a family we can become better with time management. -People are defined in how they use their time.-

Having this structure and order will help me keep my family closer to the Savior. I can be sure that we have time set aside for Family Home Evening, our Sunday meetings and other church events as they occur during the week. I will also develop leaders that have balance between the world and their many activities and our family. By having structure and routine, my family will be anchored to that which is truly important- the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Mayor Winder

2011-03-29T22:13:00.000-06:00

Mayor Winder talked about the challenge of balancing career and church assignments with the need to be involved in serving in your community and government. Describe how you will go about including community and government service in your life.

I am so happy to be a public relations major. I have actually been thinking about this over the past few months. Because of my major, I'm going to have a special skill set that will enable me to give advice to various groups. I look forward to serving with my children's PTSA. I want to be a leader in the community by offering my skills, free of charge, to some groups that could use some additional PR help, but that lack the budget to do so.

In Mayor Winder's research on the history of church leaders interactions with Presidents of the Untied States, one conclusion that has been apparent is the importance of good people serving in and around government. Identify ways that you can have that type of positive influence in both your community and nationally. Please include various ways in which you see yourself being able to lead.

Again, so grateful for my major. I look forward to my involvement with prominent companies and possibly the political scene. I see myself being a leader by practicing my profession with ethics. I want to be networked in a way that I can have an influence on the leaders of our country through my business. By being prominent in my profession, I will gain a respected voice in my community and possibly the nation.

As you evaluate your experience this year in a leadership role, describe what motivated you to make the commitment you have made in your year of service with BYUSA.

I was motivated to commit to this year of service with BYUSA by my sincere belief that I possessed a skill set that could impact our organization for good. I chose to be involved to reach out to others and show them what BYUSA really is.

I am so grateful for the time that I've had to learn in this organization. I would not be the person I am today had I not experienced more with BYUSA. I have been able explore different areas of business and, directly because of my experience here, discover a major that better fit my interest and passions.

I've been stretched- very thin at some points. I've dealt with disappointment, confusion and failure, but looking back on everything, I see triumph. I am so grateful that we have an organization on campus like this. While I was able to gain important skills and knowledge, ultimately, my greatest feeling comes from the greater connection I feel to this campus. I know that I've played an important role in reaching out to the one and helping others feel like they also have an important role to play.

Again, I am so grateful for the opportunity that I've had to experience more with BYUSA these last three years.

Sincerely,
Cierra Brooke Nye

Dean Kau

2011-03-02T21:03:00.014-07:00

"When we serve others we are not motivated by selfishness, but by charity." Please describe an experience where you have had the opportunity to be motivated by charity in your leadership experience.

This is a secret. If you know who I did this to, please don't tell him.

At the beginning of our BYUSA experience this year, I noticed a boy in our office had a backpack that was falling apart. I had just had my birthday and had some money left on gift cards to the Bookstore. Instead of buying something for myself, I decided to give to him. I bought the backpack and paid the difference and had the Bookstore box it up nice. I left it in the office with some people that could give it to him. I didn't want him to know it was me because the backpack wasn't about me. I just wanted to do something nice for him.

The next week I ran into him in the office just as he was leaving with his new backpack. I complimented him on it and he told me how he had no clue who it was from and how appreciative he was for it. He said that it could have been a backpack from any student on campus and how that made him want to be nicer to those around them.

This has been an experience that really stuck with me. Though it was a very small act on my part, I was able to have a very real impact on someone else next to me. I lifted where I stood. I don't have to knit blankets for people in Africa; I can perceive the needs of those around me and help where I can.

Why is it important for you to serve and lead now?

It is important that I serve and lead now because the things I do today will become my habits of the future. If I want to be that sort of person later on, I need to be working to incorporate it into my life today. I want service and leadership to be a part of my nature, that is why I strive to cultivate them today.

How will you prepare yourself to be ready for those unexpected opportunities to lead and serve, like the college students who saved the truck driver who had fallen off of the causeway?

I will continue to prepare myself to be ready for unexpected opportunities to lead and serve by having my life in order. If I am doing what I need to, I can be an instrument and attend to the needs of others. I'll also continue to follow the promptings of the Spirit. To be of aid to others, I need to be placing myself where I can be of help.

President Samuelson

2011-02-21T22:47:00.001-07:00

President Samuelson explained the importance of accepting callings. Please describe how you plan to respond to different calls that will come to you over your lifetime.

I was very grateful that President Samuelson brought this up. Sometimes I look at my life and don't know how everything will fit together. I know that as I have my affairs in order, and as I seek the guidance of the Spirit, I will be blessed as I seek to do the best I can in my callings.

I need to be sure that I have support in my future spouse. I want our vision to be on the same goal. I really appreciated how President Samuelson talked about how if we aren't sure that we can do everything, to talk about our circumstances with our leader and seek for his help and guidance.

President Samuelson identified the practice of being “too critical” of ourselves as being worse in effect than not being critical enough. How do your expectations of your own performance effect how you serve as a leader? How do you intend to avoid the practice of over self criticism?

I do this. A lot. Mentally, it makes me shut down and not want to do things. I feel like I'm juggling so many things that I can't do anything at all. As part of my Leadership Development plan for this semester I addressed this; to make things more manageable in my mind, I set a goal to only have one calendar (Google Calendar) and one to-do list sheet. By loosing all my sticky notes and being spread out all over the place, things are more manageable. I can further improve by numbering the items on my to-do list in order of importance, a principle I learned in seventh grade.

To avoid the practice of self criticism, I want to journal. I want to write down my accomplishments and allow my mind to reflect on how things are going. It's very good for me to organize my thoughts and to have an outlet.

President Samuelson shared his method of organizing his plans to include long term, mid term and short term. What approach do you currently use in organizing the work you are responsible for?

I don't do this yet. That's why I asked this question. After hearing about his method, I'll incorporate it into the way I use my calendar and set personal goals. I can also be better at including the public relations matrix into my personal life as I plan.

Please describe your motive for serving in BYUSA. Has this motive changed or evolved as the year has gone by?

I serve in BYUSA because love the organization, its vision and the university it supports. Originally my freshman year, I started in it to become its president. After serving I have realized that it is not about position- it's about people. I can do so much more good with my skills in my current position. I really see a parallel of President Uchtdorf's General Conference address "Lift Where You Stand." In that message he directs us to "stand close together and lift where you stand."

I'm uncertain about my future with BYUSA. I just found out that I have been accepted to the public relations program. Currently, my biggest goal is to graduate from BYU with a degree from that program. I want to do my best there, and it may require my full attention. I have an orientation on Friday where I'll be able to learn more, and I'll continue pondering about my future as I pray each night.

I've been at BYU for three years now and I've been connected with strong leadership roles within the organization for just as long. I don't know what's going to happen, but wherever I am I plan to stand close to those around me and lift.

Ron Jones

2011-02-10T00:53:00.000-07:00

Bro. Jones described his career path and an experience where he received a recommendation from the President of Dixie State College. This recommendation came because of Bro. Jones reputation as someone who would follow through on any assignments he received. Please describe what practices you will engage to make sure that you are considered someone who is reliable in completing projects.

This is definitely an area that I'm working on. To improve I'm working at doing a better job calendaring out what I need to do. As part of my Leadership Development plan at the end of last semester I made a commitment to keep all of my to-dos on my Google Calendar. I can expand this process by adding day-to-day tasks to keep me on track with my deadlines. I can also improve my delegation; this is not a skill that I'm very good at. I need to be more trusting of others on my team and willing to share some of my responsibilities with them.

Bro. Jones mentioned the opportunities that he has had to be an example for those who are not members of the church and has been an influence for changing opinions about Mormons. Please describe how you will consider the opportunity to make friends for the Church as you start and grow your career.

When Ron said this, my thoughts immediately went to my patriarchal blessing. I know that my faith and example are going to be something that influences others both inside and outside of the Church. I know that I am someone that needs to be involved in what is going on and plan to continue this trend as a grow older by participating in my local government and community groups. I feel blessed to have my family and the history behind my testimony. I know that many of the experiences from my past have made me who I am today and influence how I treat and think about others.

Bro. Jones described his work on the Festival of the American West. One aspect that made that event succesful was the inclusion of many different people and allowing them to shine with their talents. Please explain how this concept of involving others and allowing them to utilize and showcase their talents relate to our practice of leadership in BYUSA and in the future.

Again, I feel like this was something that I was much better at last year. In my current position I seem to be seeking after people that are already interested in learning more about public relations. I can continue to invite others into the office, especially as I hear about events that might interest them.

In BYUSA we seek to invite all to come and experience more. We strive to offer things that will apply to many people. -I've given the office tour so many times! I there's too much to type out here for all the different types of things for people to learn about and develop talents in.- As we continue into the future, I see it to be very important, especially with my position over public relations, to be willing to engage in dialogue with the student body and truly be the best sort of organization that is serving them to the best of our vision.

Dr. Neal Cox - Director of Student Leadership

2011-02-07T14:15:00.020-07:00

Select at least three of Brother Cox's 12 career hints and report what you are currently doing to follow his recommendations. Be specific in describing how you are living each hint.
Then select one or more hints from Brother Cox's presentation upon which you feel a need improve your focus. Be specific about your plans to better incorporate this hint into your life.

1. Family First
2. Leave it better than you found it.
3. Don't fear to contribute and invite others to do so.
4. Do more than is expected.
5. Be prepared before opportunity knocks.
6. Be willing to start from ground level.
7. Don't measure success by fame or fortune.
8. Don't value security more than opportunity to serve.
9. Deflect praise to others.
10. Sprout deep roots.
11. Try new things.
12. If you don't love it, leave it.

3. Don't fear to contribute and invite others to do so.
I love this one. Put your best foot forward in your service and invite others to do so. I gained a great testimony of this one last year as I was specifically over volunteer outreach and placement in HR. It was my duty to make sure events were fully staffed and that things were rolling right along. I was able to meet so many people and match them with opportunities that interested them. I made some wonderful life long friends in the process too.

6. Be willing to start from ground level.
I came into BYUSA asking Adam how I could become president one day. He recommended that I find a volunteer opportunity and that's when I began experiencing more with BYUSA. Through the last three years here I have been involved with many different aspects of our organization. Because of that, I have some unique insight and knowledge into how things work and of how to build off of our past. Had I been upset with Adam and felt entitled to an ED or VP position from the start, I would not have had the same type of experience here at BYU and would not be the same person that I am today.

10. Sprout deep roots.
AMEN! This has been my exact attitude in coming to BYU. I knew that I was going to be here for a few years and that by reaching out to those around me, my experience here would be improved. I really like getting to know people and learning about random connections between us. I can also see that the relations I make today are going to carry far into my future. It's incredible that I can now travel almost anywhere in the world and be able to find someone that I know.

9. Deflect praise to others.
I can't get enough of praise. After reading The Five Languages of Love this summer, I learned that I prefer to be praised with words of affirmation. Because of this I mounted a cork board above my desk to remind myself of my accomplishments and of my personal worth. This isn't vain or wrong, but because these compliments mean so much to me I realize that they may have a greater impact on others. As part of my Leadership Development plan this year I am working on expressing my gratitude more. As I do this, I will be better able to see the hand of the Lord in my life and have a more cohesive and cooperative team.

Judge Griffith

2011-02-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Judge Griffith spoke about his career and how he had moved around to different opportunities seeking to find his passion. Please describe what you feel you are passionate about today and where you think these interests will take you as you start your career path.

I am very passionate about public relations. I'll find out if I was accepted in about ten days and from there I'll be able to see what kind of path I'm going to be on in that field. I love networking and being in the know. I can see these skills carrying over as I continue in the emphasis.

Judge Griffith quoted several versus in Jacob 2, in reference to the pursuit and use of wealth. How will you apply the concepts that Jacob shares with us as you experience success in your career.

As I experience success in my career I plan to continue to pay a full tithe to the Church. I would also like to give back to BYU in gratitude for all the opportunities it has afforded me. I can do this by donating to the Annual Fund, or by creating an endowment.

I also know that I would like to play a leading role in my community. When my children are school aged, I plan to be an active member in PTSA and possibly in our local government. If I can see a place where my influence would be a benefit, and it won't interfere with my other responsibilities, I would like to lend a helping hand.

Please share something you learned about leadership in your career from Judge Griffith’s presentation.

I learned that leadership in my future career is going to inevitably come my way. Though my future is slightly uncertain, I can accept where it will lead me and embrace the opportunities and experiences that will come my way. I also know that I want to work on gaining a greater knowledge of both the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the theological positions of other faiths to be able to converse on a variety of topics intelligently.

résumé

2011-01-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Leading Change

2010-11-09T01:11:00.000-07:00

1. Considering your role as a leader, please describe who you view as your “customers” and how you practice the idea of meeting the needs of those customers.

Because I assist BYUSA with its public relations, I see myself relating to a lot of different customers. I get to interact with the love, hate, and swing students on campus through organization outreach and the BYUSA blog. Through Service Squad I have the opportunity to interact with general BYUSA newcomers. With my relations with the Daily Universe I need to act in a very professional role to assist those writing our campus newspaper with the most factual and accurate information at my disposal.

To meet all of my "customers" needs, I strive to know them and what their needs actually include. My program directors need direction from me on the mission, vision, and BYUSA processes. The Daily Universe needs to know what is going on; I need to communicate with our beat writer in order to have announcements and coverage. New volunteers need a great experience through a structured and organized activity that allows them to feel the spirit of this association.

2. Please describe a time when you have been involved in a significant change. Identify what those who were leading the organization did to help make the change successful or unsuccessful.

I'm currently in the midst of a significant change. I've been evaluating myself and I didn't like the pathway I was on. Through a lot of prayer, fasting, scripture study, journaling, and continual goal setting, I'm re-honing myself to be the person worthy of my patriarcal blessing.

To make this change successful, I'm changing my routine. I am more careful where I give my word and make commitments. I am working at placing feasible deadlines for myself, and then giving myself a moment to celebrate when I achieve them. Probably the most important thing, I am taking time for me.

3. Describe why you believe that Networking with others, is a vital part of leading change.

Networking with others is a vital part of leading change because it gives you the foreknowledge of what needs to change. Through a network, you can ask others in a professional atmosphere about perceived weaknesses and strengths. It is through your network that you'll get the right people on the bus (Good to Great). Networking with others also offers greater resources to you as you lead change.

Overview of Leadership Model

2010-09-27T14:39:00.002-06:00

I definitely have weaknesses; however, in the Zenger-Folkman Leadership model, you are asked to build upon strengths. One strength that I have developed that sets me apart from others is that I am very outgoing. Not too many things scare me. I also welcome large challenges and responsibilities (sometimes I seek after them).

General Norman Schwarzkopf felt that character would be more important than strategy because character is the ultimate motive. Character influences strategy and the way you carry out the task.

In BYUSA, I am working to be the "hedgehog" with our public relations. I'm still learning about PR processes, but I have vested interest in both PR and BYUSA. By learning more about PR I help BYUSA; by praciticing PR in BYUSA, I'm able to experiment with and solidify my skills.

Welcome back Christy! I've missed you and am very excited to get to WORK!

Divine Centered Leadership

2010-09-20T16:04:00.000-06:00

I volunteer with BYUSA because I believe in the vision and mission. I am motivated by my love for my fellow students and by my belief that together, as students, we can create a "Zion community."

Theodore Roosevelt gives credit in life to those who are “In the Arena.” To me, being in the arena means being the one that is making the effort to be involved. I plan to be in the arena this year by giving my best during my service within BYUSA. I serve with BYUSA because I see the good that it does for the students at BYU. In my life, I know that I will remain in the arena by staying involved in my community in my church service, in my towns, and in my home.

Divine-centered leaders need to know each heart. I know that I've really appreciated the time that leaders have taken to know me. I'm very grateful to Lauren Lytle and Chad Johnson; when I began my experience at BYUSA they were the ones that welcomed me and wanted to be a real friend.

If you'd like to hear about me...

2010-04-11T23:33:00.000-06:00

I'll be talking about myself at my new blog cierrabrooke.blogspot.com

Love to see you over there!

Cierra Brooke Nye's Leadership Development Plan

2009-12-08T00:16:00.000-07:00

In my student leadership class this semester, we've been studying traits of extraordinary leaders and seeking to develop their skills and talents in our own life. For our final, we were asked to create a Leader Development plan. Over the course of the next semester, I will be working to implement characteristics to improve the manner in which I lead.

If you see ways in which I can improve and better serve others, please comment and let me know.

Extraordinary Leader Development Plan

My Strengths (Which differentiating competencies do I demonstrate at or near the 90th percentile?)

Helping Other Succeed
Inspiring and Motivating Others to High Performance
Taking Initiative
Building Relationships

displaying high integrity and honesty
practicing self development
establishing stretch goals
taking initative
inspiring and motivating others to high performance
collaboration and teamwork

Potential Fatal Flaws (Do I have a serious deficiency in any of the differentiating competencies?)

keeping a broad perspective
communicating powerfully and prolifically
drive for results

need to establish deadlines and goals- creating a plan
need to get outside comfort zone
need to balance enthusiasm with professionalism
helps with too many things

Passion and Organizational Needs (How will I make a unique and lasting contribution?)

I will make a unique and lasting contribution by focusing on the needs of others. By serving them, our organization will be able to meet its goals and execute events with accuracy. We’ll be reaching out to the students and be able to create a memorable BYU Experience.

Choosing One Competency (Which differentiating competency do I want to focus on?)

I want to focus on Helping Others Succeed. In human resources my duty is to help volunteers find opportunities to serve and help officers find those that will meet what their individual area needs.

Competency Companions (Which competency companions make the most sense to work on? Why?)

As I develop this competency, it also makes sense to become more organized, improve my communication skills and to further my network. I can also delegate more effectively, be motivated by the success of others and practice self-development. As I increase these competency companions, I will be more able to meet my goal of helping others.

Ideas for Practice (on or off the job) (How will I practice the new skills in order to improve?)
Brainstorm:

WHO will support me? Kelin, Christy, other EDs, my PDs
WHO will hold me accountable? My PDs and Kelin
WHO will I practice on? My PDs, incoming and existing volunteers
WHEN will I start? As soon as possible- next Monday or over break further organization skills
WHEN will I check progress? Every 2 weeks
HOW will I know I’ve improved? When communication works and we cease to hit walls
HOW will I stick with the plan? By having it posted where I can see it and reference it frequently

Business Impact (How will I know I’ve made progress? How will I measure my success?)

I will know that I’ve made progress when volunteers are able to find opportunities to serve. The office will be flowing: a volunteer will come in, they’ll be matched with an opportunity to serve, we’ll hear how things are going and be able to account for them.

Goals & Gifts

2009-10-12T18:03:00.007-06:00

M. Russell Ballard said, “What are your goals for the next few years? Will you pay the price for excellence? I would hope that every one of us is wise enough to realize that we can be excellent, that we can reach the top, that we can be the very best if we are willing to pay the price. We must be willing to establish in our minds this fact: In order to be great in whatever we attempt to do in life, we have to decide in advance that it is all worth it. Have you set your priorities? Are they solidly and clearly defined in your minds? Were they clear when you got up this morning, and will they be clear tomorrow morning and each morning?” “Is It Worth It?,” New Era, Jun 1984, 38

If you were having a conversation with him, how would you respond to his questions? Write as if you are writing to him.

Dear Elder Ballard,

I'm still figuring out what I'd like to do with my future. I have general goals- graduate from BYU, marriage, family, and continue to serve others. I'm working to create specific goals for myself. I've actually been trying to for awhile- since the beginning of the new school semester. I don't like to make goals at New Years like everyone else in the world. It's too cliché for me. New Years goals, at least for me, set themselves up for failure.

This last Saturday, I had the opportunity to go to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. Sitting inside, I was able to reflect on myself. I had a notebook with me and just started writing.

All of the goals I was recording had to do with others. I love people. I want to be able to have the skills to touch others in their times of need. Everyone has a bad day and by being available to serve and love them, I can become more like those who are examples to me.

I gave a talk a few Sundays back about love. Love is, or at least I'm striving to make it, the core of all my actions. Love is why I serve. Love is why I'm friends with other people. Love is why I wake up each morning.

My priorities would then be others. I am willing to sacrifice to help myself reach this goal.

Humbly,
Cierra Brooke Nye

Look over the Defining Behaviors for “Focus on Results” on pages 60, 74 and 82. Which 2-3 behaviors are you particularly good at? Can you give examples? How have these behaviors enhanced your leadership style?

I'm very willing to volunteer for a difficult task or assignment that requires you to stretch my current capability. One example of this would have been when I accepted Kelin's invitation to me to serve as the event lead over Involv-a-palooza. I'm great at being open and having the time to take on these responsibilities, however, I lacked skill and training to carry it out fully and in a timely and accurate manner. IVP really stressed me out at times. But, by being willing and open to take on this responsibility, I was able to learn skills to help me if I were to do events in the future. I learned planning techniques and saw immense amounts of teamwork during crunch-time.

I'm very willing to work longer hours to meet a commitment. I'm often in the office before 3 and don't mind staying past 5 if I have a task that I'm still working on. I'll also stay longer if another person in the office has an issue they need to talk out.

I strive hard to practice what I preach and to expect at least as much of yourself as you do of others. This applies especially to my life and living the Honor Code. As stated in a previous post, everyone is watching me simply by the nature of who I am and what I associate myself with. There are certain expectations surrounding me, yet more than the expectations and opinions of others, I strive to keep the Honor Code as a personal choice.

Personal Capability

2009-10-05T16:08:00.004-06:00

Our group focused on "Takes Initiative."

One way Human Resources takes initiative is by delegating ownership and allowing the individual to create and lead the programs. Especially because HR is such a new area to BYUSA, we're not just trying to get through the year, we are setting a high standard for our future successors.

One example of somebody in our area that takes initiative would be Charlie Lambert. Elise asked him to make a volunteer plan for every event in the month of October to which Charlie replied, "Oh, I've already done it."
Elise's jaw dropped to the ground.
"ELISE!" Kelin exclaimed. "We need to get you to the hospital asap!"
He threw the Jeep keys to Cici. "Kelin, I've never driven stick before!"
"Cici, I trust you. Believe in yourself as Hiro the Horse of integrity always has."
***fade in cowboy music*****
"Gee willickers," Elise let out.
"Jimmney cricket!" Kelin proclaimed with authority.
"And amen." added Cici.
Each nodded in agreement as they galloped off into the H'Rizon.

Inside of BYUSA, the Human Resources (H'Roffice) area has experienced many successes as it has grown. By taking initiative, the volunteer plans have been more organized and students have felt a greater sense of belonging in consequence of having a knowledge of their responsibilities. Zionize. Jointify.

Pygmalion Effect

2009-09-27T20:42:00.000-06:00

Describe a time in your life when you felt the power of the Pygmalion Effect.
In kindergarten, I really struggled with reading. This was quite troubling to me especially because the ESL students in my class were achieving benchmarks much higher than mine. In first grade I had an excellent teacher, Ms. Downey. This fine woman expected a lot of me including 15 minutes of reading each night. As she expected more of me, I was able to achieve more and I soon I began to rise within the reading groups. When I entered 2nd grade we had a reading test. At its conclusion my teacher asked our class if we'd like to know who the best reader in our class was. Of course we all chimed in wishing to know who this student was. I was elated to learn that this student was me. Directly because of Mrs. Downey and her added time and attention, I found that I was able to achieve things that I could never thought were possible.
Looking back, the skill of reading has carried me through advanced classes and into my current college career.

Identify a strength you see in three other people.
Lauren Lytle is excellent at recognizing others and giving them the recognition that we each seek.
Elise May is incredible at loving others for exactly who they are.
Jessica Hart is great at listening to people and remembering what is going on in their lives.
Each of these women does know that these are their unique strengths and that is why they strive to interact with others on a daily basis and build up personal value in others.
To help these girls better visualize their strengths, I can verbally praise them and identify these skills they possess.

Mark Twain once observed, "Thousands of geniuses live and die without being discovered, either by themselves or by others." What did he mean by this observation?
In this observation, Mark Twain asserted that we need to be the ones to notice the greatness in ourselves. We each need to develop our talents and then share them. It's so important. We need to lift up others wherever possible.

Reflection 1

2009-09-21T09:51:00.006-06:00

What was your motive for serving in BYUSA?
Originally, I came to BYUSA with the full intent of running for president. I didn't fully understand the organization; I just wanted the position and the power that came with it. Now after approximately a year of service with these wonderful people I've gained a greater understanding of all the work that goes into helping the student body. BYUSA and service with the group is not a cush-cush thing as I had originally perceived it.
My motives have changed. Drawing from my patriarchal blessing I've gained a greater understanding on why I am to be here. Service is and will continue to be a very important part of my life.

How will you apply the Divine-centered leadership principles in your home, community, and future career?
In my home I will strive to create a more loving environment. It is very important that when we have roommate council meetings and decide to enact new standards (ie making sure we're really doing our dishes) that I live up to what I committed to. I will need to be sure that I'm seeing others through the eyes of Christ.

Leader of Leaders

2009-07-27T13:59:00.003-06:00

Evaluate your own natural leadership style and identify ways you can make it more flexible.
I really need to work on delegation. I've always been wary of group projects and releasing the work to others. In the past people have failed me and that led me to have a complex that only I could do things, that others were beyond trust. I need to remain organized and be sure when I say I'll get something done I write down the task. Once it is remembered it needs to be completed in a timely manner.

Consider the people you influence in your 360º of leadership. Are there ways you can help empower them more?
DELEGATE... ask questions of those around me and help when I need it. I can really improve about asking for help.

Think about the way Heavenly Father works with you…Does He ALWAYS direct you with what to do? When does He leave the decision to you?
Heavenly Father trusts my decisions although he is there for me in all my trying and difficult times. I need to keep him as my center and strive to live my life that way.

Honor Code

2009-07-27T13:49:00.003-06:00

Why is it so important that you as student officers exemplify commitment to the standards of the Honor Code?
It is vitally important that as a student officer I exemplify my commitment to the standards of the Honor Code because EVERYONE is watching. People know what I am associated with and what I do directly reflects on the organization. I want to be one that contributes to a positive attitude and picture of BYUSA.

What are three resources available to you if you ever have a question about the Honor Code?
If I have a question with the Honor Code there is always the website (http://honorcode.byu.edu/), the actual Honor Code office on the 4th floor of the WSC, and then my mini "Honor To-go" in my wallet.

How can your understanding of the gospel principles, that the standards of the Honor Code are based upon, help you follow and encourage others to follow the Honor Code?
My understanding of gospel principals aids me as I live the Honor Code. As I live gospel principals, many parts of the Honor Code are automatically covered (not murdering, WOW, etc.). Modesty is another principal the church asks us to live and that falls under the Honor Code as well.

Volunteers

2009-07-22T13:28:00.005-06:00

What was your experience like when you first got involved with BYUSA? If you would have preferred it to be different, how can you help new volunteers have the difference you wish you had?
I don't really even remember where I first heard about BYUSA. I was attempting to figure out the BYU website and sorta just found it. I remember reading Adam and the rest of the presidency's bios and just thinking they had to be the coolest people ever... and that I wanted to be a part of what they were doing.
Coming to BYU and participating in NSO I was able to listen to Adam's advice (go to devotionals). I was star struck. When Brooke and Adam were handing out pins at the BBQ I just about died. My Y Group thought I was this crazy obsessed girl.
I kept seeing Adam around campus and saying hi. After awhile of this, I set up an appointment to come into the office and meet Adam personally and see where I could help. The night before the meeting there was a knock on my door and a group of students, including Chad Johnson, informed us that they were Service Squad, a part of BYUSA and were here to take out our trash. Funny I had all this exposure at once.
Talking to Adam the next day I learned a lot. At the conclusion of our meeting he asked me to work on Elections. I felt pretty cool being a freshman reporting directly to the President.

Working on elections was hard. Though I had weekly meetings with Adam (and soon Mike Squires) I didn't feel as though I had direction or training. I loved being in the office but was not connected to any other individuals in the organization. I did my work in Leadership Ed (what used to be half of comms with no light above our head) and really just felt lonely. It wasn't until Garrett, Chad, Lauren and Nat invited me over into Comms to do my work that I really felt like I had friends and was fitting in.
I knew that good things were happening in the office and was in there every day from 3-5, just like an ED. I never recieved a nametag, never had an offical tour... but all in all, I so grateful I made it here.

Now I'm helping out in Human Resources and am specifically the Executive Director over Volunteer Outreach and Placement. With Elise, Kelin and the rest of our forming team, our entire purpose is to make sure the volunteers are being taking into the organization through the correct means. We want everyone to have a standard office tour and be directly placed the first time that they come into the office. I love what I do.

How can you better help your volunteers feel a sense of belonging from their service?
I can make sure my volunteers feel a sense of belonging from their service through a variety of means. The volunteer uniform will unite them in their cause- they'll easily be able to recognize the others that are serving alongside them. The Huddle is a group meeting that is to occur at the beginning and end of each event to deliver the volunteer plan and break down of the event. The Event Lead should be the one to conduct the huddle. Knowing their names...

How will you personally recognize the volunteers you work with?
I will personally recognize my volunteers through verbal praise, random treats all with an attitude of genuine sincerity.

DCL

2009-07-14T13:03:00.002-06:00

What is a leadership characteristic of the Savior you really admire, and how would you like to implement this characteristic into your own leadership role?
The Savior always had time to listen. A big complaint in our generation is that they are being "judged." This word is usually associated with a poor connotation, however, judgment is something that needs to always occurring in our lives. Our judgment guides our decisions. The Savor loved all those he encountered with a pure heart. I would really like to develop that skill by getting to know others on a personal level.

Which one of the aspects of the Divine-Centered Leadership model touched you the most, why?
Knowing each heart really touched me. The Savior really does know each of us as an individual; he really really gets me for who I am on the inside.

The culture of BYUSA

2009-07-08T12:51:00.003-06:00

What changes do you think you can make in your life NOW and for the rest of the year (and forever) to be more in line with BYUSA culture of professionalism and protocol?
Align myself to be a Divine Centered Leader. Really Christ is the greatest example that we have to look to. The Honor Code is a great daily reminder of dress and grooming standards as well as personal conduct.

How will the culture of professionalism here at BYU and within BYUSA impact your future as you "go forth to serve"?
The professionalism I'm being taught will be a skill that I am able to take with me into every field. By learning these traits early they become habit and aid me as I seek to serve others.

How does professionalism and protocol help you develop as a divine centered leader?
Professionalism and protocol help me to become a DCL through a variety of means. With them, I am better able to keep myself in check and avoid unnecessary disagreements.

Give 'em the pickle

2009-07-07T12:34:00.003-06:00

Name three ways you are going to give your service providers a pickle.

- thank you cards
-converse with them as a friend with true interest in their doings
-ideally- homebaked cookies

Put yourself in the service providers shoes, what do you think you would expect from a BYU student?

I would expect the students I meet with to respect my time. They are to arrive to meetings early, know all the facts and background to the event. Manners are a must, a cordial attitude. Honor Code appropriate.

How will you maintain a good relationship with Support Staff and The Design Team?
I will maintain a good relationship with Support Staff and the Design Team by knowing their names, being their friend, keeping them in the loop, getting things into them in a timely manner and building them up.

RACE

2009-06-29T15:01:00.001-06:00

What is the value of using RACE to plan programs?
RACE is BYUSA's planning method. Broken down it stands for Research & train, Action plan, Carry out, and Evaluate & report. RACE can be of much value as it keeps us on track and following a set timeline so our events won't fall through.

Give an example of planning "what to do" versus planning "what we want
to have happen."
Planning "what to do" would include an actual broken down plan of events and things you'd like to have happen. "What we want to have happen"

What is a SMART goal? Why make smart goals?
A SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely. It is important to make smart goals to be able to really accomplish what you've set out to do. Oft times, goals fall through because part of this criteria is not met.

Of what value is is evaluation in the process?
Evaluation is probably the most important part of the process. When you report on something, it has been proven that you're more likely to accomplish more in the future. (PMG)

dun dun dunnn dunnn!

2009-06-19T15:51:00.005-06:00

I have been wanting to blog for the LONGEST time. It's been on my to-do list but it just kept getting shuffled around on my google calendar. Finally, time appeared and my urge can be quelled.

Latest news, I've been working full time in the HBLL this whole spring term still with my same job from the beginning of last year up in the Lettering Room. After being in at work for about eight hours, I head over to BYUSA to help out all that I can. Have I told you how much I love this organization? There is just so much good, so much light, so much happiness contained here. After my time in the office, I head home, check in with the fun things that are happening at Liberty Square and then head to bed roughly around 10:30 or 11. It's been packed and crazy so far, but I'm loving it.

Today is actually the first day of NSO (New Student Orientation) and I am loving being a YGL (Y Group Leader). My group is full of fantastic people and my fellow leaders are amazing. I feel so blessed to be at this university and have all the opportunities that are available to me. I hope that by being a YGL I will be able to help those coming into BYU catch the spirit and be able to find their place. Everyone should feel like there are people that love them for who they are.

Being involved in all these freshman activities really has helped remind me just how much I love being here. One thing that I kept hearing last year as I started out as a freshman was that each student attending BYU is here for a reason. We each have a vital role to play, both here and in the world beyond our studies. An education is a life long process.

Tomorrow morning I have a role in the Education in Zion exhibit in the JFSB during the Cougar Walk. It's an amazing gallery and the students and curator there have such a passion for everything it contains. I am very impressed every time that I leave that corridor. My role is the final part of the presentation and I am responsible for filling the students with an inspirational message about just how important they are. I'm really excited for it and am still tweaking what I want to say. Cross your fingers it all comes together by tomorrow.

I just wanted to post something because it's been awhile. What's going on with you guys? Let me know your latest. I'll keep you posted. Much love!

amor vincit omnia

2009-04-23T16:54:00.002-06:00

love conquers all

what I'm going to miss about Heritage Halls and freshman year

2009-04-21T10:26:00.004-06:00

The triangular half step on the stairs that I always trip down.

Having a grocery store ten steps away. Really ten steps.

My ward. Ward, I love you all.

Our main floor creeper window. Making friends is so easy with it.

Being a freshman and blaming behavior on that simple fact.

Never using the land line phone.

Having the majority of the boys be preemies so we really are just friends- they have missions!

Cheap laundry- 75 wash/ 25 dry

The basement piano that is played at all hours of the day.

Playing 1, 2, 3, He's Mine!

The fun of our litchen- living room/kitchen

Automatically having $30 on my signature card every Monday.

The original quote wall :)

Hall meetings.

The people outside my bedroom window that play games at all hours of the night.

The Lawbrary.

Double boys. That's right. Our ward had twice as many.

Having a main lobby and fireplaces.

Ironing in the kitchen as everyone stares at you.

Having the dumpster and recycle bins around the corner.

Tunnel singing.

Having The Chronicles of Narnia- University 101 version in our window all year long.

Living two minutes from campus.

The pictures of random men on our fridge- Dustin, Anthony, Troy, Jesse Marsh, Becham, Henry, Todd.

Using the backdoor as the front door.

The make-out space outside the backdoor- perfect place for late night talks.

Being close enough that I can go home for lunch, naps, forgotten books...

Being locked out of my bedroom and asking Kelly for help to get back in.

Church at the Conference Center.

Tons of cupboard space.

RAs- really they're awesome and I love them.

The trees outside with their gorgeous pink blossoms.

The cinder block, non-soundproof walls.

Dead silent sacrament meetings.

Getting into the house through the window.

Shenanigans- and how we get away with them because we're freshmen.

Living with five of the most incredible girls ever.

taking a breather during finals

2009-04-17T10:42:00.003-06:00

It's nearly the end of finals. Wow. Freshman year has really flown by. College really is a time for learning, although I'd have to say that the majority of my learning this year hasn't necessarily been academic. While that's something I'd like to improve upon in the future, I've found that my learning has been more geared to juggling my many responsibilities. With a full load of classes, I've also been working in the HBLL up on the 6th floor, volunteering in the BYUSA office, had my ward VT Coordinator calling, been helping with NRHH, gone on a service trip with Kaiizen in Mexico, and been keeping up with roommates and making many new friends and acquaintances.

College really is unlike high school. Especially here at BYU, I've learned that I'm not necessarily the smartest. While I was top ranked in high school, it's been important for me to have a true understanding of who I am and to value myself just for being me.

Here are some truths I've learned over the past year:

1. Procrastination really is a bad idea.
This is something I've known since elementary school yet I still indulge in it all the time. This is definitely something I need to change about myself. I resolve to now complete my work, especially papers, a week in advance. To really have time to enjoy life, I need to be on top of things.

2. Daily scripture study and prayer is vital.
Being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I have a testimony of the restored gospel. Reading my scriptures daily is something that helps me keep an eternal perspective. Prayer is a way for me to speak directly to my Heavenly Father and be calmed whenever I experience fear and apprehension.

3. Proper diet and exercise gives you energy.
Living away from home, I am completely in control of what I ingest. This can be either a good or bad thing. At times, eating right is expensive. I plan to join a dinner group and create wonderfully delicious and healthy food that doesn't make me feel like crap. Also, working out is good. I'm not especially fond of running, but I may just have to suck it up. Expect to see wet swimsuits hanging in the shower in the near future. I've always loved swimming.

4. Early to bed, early to rise.
I am probably the worst night owl ever. Being down here has really made me see the errors of my ways; productivity really does plummet late at night. My current bedtime is 10:30 and I've been pretty good about that. Rising has been attempted to be close to 7. This is to be altered as needed.

5. People come first. Always.
It is so easy to get caught up in yourself living at college. So many things make you want to think that way. It's important to be service oriented in everything you do. Everyone in this life is going through their own personal set of trials. Having a friend and someone who will really listen can make all the difference in another's life.

6. Optimism makes every situation better.
Wake up every day and decided to be happy. Having this attitude will make every task quicker to complete. Your relations with others will improve and you will gain more friends. Be genuine as you do this. You'll also come to be seen as a leader and someone to count on.

7. Your word is your bond.
If you say you are going to do something, do it. Trust is one of the most important things you can have with another human being. As you become someone that is dependable and reliable, you will grow in your own personal level of happiness and it will become easier to complete other tasks in your life.

8. Approach every individual with an attitude of Christ-like love.
We are all sons and daughters of a Heavenly Father who loves us for who we are. As we approach one another with this attitude, we create real relationships. Serving others is the most important thing that we can do in this life. Always seek after opportunities in which you can show your love for others through simple acts of service.

This is all I have for now. Back to studying I suppose. It's good to know that finals are but a small moment in the eternal scheme of things.

just a freshening up..

2009-04-03T00:10:00.001-06:00

Where did freshman year go? It's hard to get through my head that we only have about two and a half weeks left- then the whole thing's done. We move out of Heritage, say my farewells to all these amazing people and may never see them again. I thought it might be wise to post some pictures from the last while as just a means of reminiscing while I can't sleep on this early Friday morning. And Emmie, HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY BSE!

nearing the semester's end

2008-12-02T01:13:00.002-07:00

Yay! My blog will be mine again soon! I can't tell you how many times I've just wanted to write but have been restricted by the fact that this blog is temporarily being used for my assignments. I realize that we're learning to work on here as part of what the Board would have us to be taught. But GAH! I knew what I was doing here! Making it an assignment just frustrated me. I can see the good in actually sharing my views online though by having my Eng and Univ assignments up on here.

To my readers, the two of you, hopefully once all this crazy is over, I can just talk like normal. That makes me sound like I'm insane. Switch that- I can talk about what I want to talk about, what's affecting me, and just share. My points and reasoning are diminishing because it's late and I'm revamping a paper still. So much work. It's all going to pay off.

chippin away

2008-12-02T01:05:00.002-07:00

We're in the midst of the body of our project now. I believe I mentioned our DS is Gordon B. Hinkley- probably one of the best examples we could find for Help Others. Our topic is just set up for service. I gave blood about two weeks back during Rivalry Week and in retrospect wondered if those hours counted towards something. If it was just for saving lives, that works too. Then, that Saturday I went to the temple for a couple of hours to do baptisms. It was my first time ever going by myself so that was a really cool experience for me. I went fasting and actually ran into some people that I knew both on the way and inside. This Thanksgiving weekend I also set aside some time to work on installing the indexing program on my new mac and worked on a batch. I just wonder if other things that I do count towards these "hours." I'm going down to Mexico this Thursday through Sunday on a service trip with Kaiizen. Can I document that? That'd really take me over the "required" time.

-I just don't like to think of my service in time. I do it because that's who I am.-

source evaluation

2008-12-02T00:59:00.002-07:00

In further researching for my paper, I found an excellent article on problems with the internet as a whole. After keeping my interest the entire way through, I continued to scroll down and was startled to find an extensive bibliography. People in the real world really do site their sources and there are cases when you can have thirty sources.

I was able to deem that the author really did do their research. I even went on to search some of the papers that they used and was able to gather more information for my own paper. I'm still working on the credibility and ease in my paper. I have my topic pretty much nailed down, it's just making my research support me and continue for the required length.

our first meeting

2008-11-21T00:58:00.002-07:00

We were able to gather as a group on Tuesday and figured out what we need to get done. If felt so good to be done with things ahead of time. I love having a topic to really focus and point my studies to in this class now. Our topic is help others and our scholar is President Hinckley. Everyone is pulling their part and stepping up to the plate. I really do think we're going to be able to do something great.
Our service project is going to consist of indexing and going to the temple to do baptisms. Just today I gave blood and wonder if I can count that hour long process. I'll talk it over. Today really didn't feel like a Thursday. Sad. They're my favorite day of the week.

intro attempts

2008-11-18T06:13:00.004-07:00

Okay, for this week's blog post, I would like you to write an opening paragraph for your paper, but try it in at least two of the different styles we talked about in class. So there should be some different versions of your intro. Good Luck. Have fun!

Facebook is a social networking website that connects people to friends from all points of their life. While this movement has continued to expand, the world has seemingly been shrinking. While individuals seem to believe they're forming worthwhile relationships, really they are investing their time in just a few individuals. This second "facebook life"in fact decreases the number of people that a person can meet, limits conversational skills and makes people react in ways the wouldn't necessarily face to face.

The social networking site has worked its way to becoming a staple in the lives of younger generations. Users can spend hours on the site adding friends, uploading photos and videos, commenting, and reading a thread of their friend's latest happenings. This site has become quite intertwined with the lives of the younger generation. For some it has spread to an addiction where the user must visit the site multiple times a day. It is morphing the human experience and decreases the number of people a person can meet, hinders conversational skills and makes people act in ways online that they wouldn't necessarily face to face.

the preparation begins

2008-11-14T07:26:00.003-07:00

We met with our groups and have begun the planning process. Our topic is Help Others, something I feel that we can do very well with. Our disciple scholar at the moment is Gordan B. Hinckley, however, I think this may need to change and become something a bit more creative. While I love President Hinckley and acknowledge all that he has done for people the world over, we should instead highlight an individual that doesn't usually receive much attention. Who is this individual you may ask? I'm still mulling it over so check back in in a few. Shannon, Amy, Mike and Graham will be excellent group members and together we'll all really be able to accomplish something amazing.

good- better- best

2008-11-10T21:20:00.003-07:00

Topic: Dinosaurs

Highly Credible: www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/diapsids/dinosaur.html
As this is a source coming from a trusted university, the items being discussed on this page can be deemed truthful.

Moderately Credible: http://www.dinosaur-facts.com/
While this site is titled "dinosaur facts" it does not list a source for its information. The site author can pretty much post anything they want.

Little/No Credibility: http://www.theonion.com/content/opinion/stegosaurus_is_my_second
This site is completely satire. The facts have been twisted and aren't entirely true.

recapping

2008-11-07T01:02:00.003-07:00

College life is busy! Tonight was our Night of Asthetic Beauty. While it was planned to last for two hours, it ended up going from 7 till 10. And while technically it was for Humanities, I left the night feeling Spiritually strengthened and wishing to increase my own talents.

We also just received the email for our group assignments for our final. My topic actually sounds like something I'd enjoy sharing; my group doesn't seem half bad either.

I still really do need to sit down and write out my goals. GAH! And I want to write in my journal. Good, better, best, never let it rest till the good is better and the better is best. A life lesson to learn from.

This is a really scatter brained-y one. My apologies.

field trip

2008-10-31T01:27:00.002-06:00

Gah! I was doing better at remembering to write these earlier. I guess that's just what happens as I get busier and busier. During class last time, we relocated to the JFSB gallery of the history behind Joseph Smith, BYU and institute/seminary. I'd have to say my favorite part of the exhibit was the art. What can I say? I'm a nerd like that. There was an oculus in the ceiling, the stunning spiral staircase that incorporates so many different mediums, and the simple paintings and pictures that hang on the walls. There was a bit of underlying symbolism with the light, vines and Shepard- each was to remind you of Christ.

I wandered the area with Katie and Gracie, but really didn't take in much of the actual displays. It's one place on campus that I want to be able to fully enjoy on my own time. I'll return... with camera in hand.

the "snow day"

2008-10-23T23:06:00.003-06:00

We did not have a Univ 101 class last week, so I don't really have much to say about it. I still have to annotate the papers about it tonight.

One major improvement in my life that I could credit to this class is time management. More and more I'm seeing the importance of this and am working on creating a set schedule for myself. Also, last night I spent about two hours going through a large stack of papers I had accumulated since the beginning of the year and actually determined what was necessary.

So, off to more work. Sorry this blog really has nothing to say. Hopefully I can work on my quilt this weekend and finish fixing my computer.

PMA

2008-10-17T07:48:00.002-06:00

Jolysa was truly inspired last class period as she spoke on positive mental tapes. We were to grade our Humanities class the following hour and a lot of students were apprehensive over what would happen. Jolysa was able to calm the fears of many and led an incredible discussion how we are loved by our Heavenly Father and how we have the ability within ourselves to improve our grades and learning styles.

In Art History last year, we spoke of a similar idea that was experienced in the Renaissance. The people armed themselves with a Positive Mental Attitude. Their PMA allowed them to create many of the advancements in the art world.

By arming ourselves with confidence, we are able to accomplish incredible things.

political ads- wrought with rhetorical tools

2008-10-13T20:47:00.002-06:00

I nearly forgot this blog assignment with all the hubbub of homecoming activities, cleaning prep, a packed Sunday and FHE. There's so much to juggle now!

Upon figuring out the correct website address, I decided to check out the '92 election year. I was two so I figure I could learn a bit from the past. Those attempting to become president included Democrat Clinton, Republican Bush and the Independent Perot. I hadn't even been aware an independent had had that great of an impact on the election at that point in my youth so I decided to check him out. (http://www.livingroomcandidate.org/commercials/1992)

The very first clip in his row seemed promising; after all, with a light blue thumbnail displaying words over a young girl's face seemed to just scream that it had some sort of rhetorical tool within it.

Perot was a business man before he decided to throw his hat into the ring. He backed himself with his billions and paid for his political ads out of pocket. He speaks directly to the American parents and pleads with them on the state of the economy. He makes the statement that by 2000, as a country we'll have developed an $8 trillion deficit- just a couple years off. He totally manipulates his audience with pathos. The sounds of children on a playground can be heard. Light motivational chords swell. The ever changing background of forlorn innocent kids. Gah! All these below the belt punches! Then pair that with a bit of ethos- the announcer guy voice that would never lead us astray. Loaded words such as unlimited opportunity, children and the American Dream.

While Perot did not win the Presidency, his ads were very effective. He won twenty percent of the public vote, something that had never been done, nor since. People really listened to him and the cause that he stood for. To quote his ending, "The candidate is Ross Perot. The issue is our children. The choice is yours."

meeting with an advisor

2008-10-06T22:56:00.002-06:00

Just a bit of an update, I have been in to speak with a counselor about my major and how the education I gain today will effect my life into the eternities. I still am feeling very confident about seeking after a degree in English. The question just remains as to what, if any thing I will minor (double major?) in. The kind man armed me with sheets listing major requirements and instructed me to begin taking the required classes next semester. Wow. Just jumping right in then.

A goal I am now setting on my own that that one has been accomplished is to schedule my time a lot better. I need to sit down with my planner and really figure everything out. And set goals for myself. So, this is me informing you so that you may now check up on me. Thank you so much for all your loving guidance Jolysa :)

Gen Con: An Examination of Rhetoric

2008-10-06T21:58:00.003-06:00

For this week, I'd like you to analyze a general conference talk. (If you morally object to this, pick one from a previous conference). Look for rhetorical tools, and what effect they are designed to have on the audience. Good Luck.

It seems that with every passing year, I grow more and more excited for General Conference. As the full text for this October session will not be released until Thursday for me to reexamine it, I selected Elder Bednar's talk "And Nothing Shall Offend Them" from the October 2006 Conference.

Elder Bednar comes into this particular conference as a newly called apostle. Though generally unfamiliar to his audience at this time, his talk is wrought with ethos as he is in a position of much responsibility and wisdom.

His talk is one that has stuck with me to this day; it really was a revolutionary thought process he was setting down. You control your own emotions. You decide how you will react to what others say to you. All of this was very logical, and consequently employed logos.

As with any well crafted talk, a stories were included, linking Elder Bednar with his audience through pathos.

To go further, stylistic tools including parallelism, repetition and call to action were utilized. Elder Bednar really made himself stand out in this session and taught the Saints something that really needed to be taken to heart.

online myMAP

2008-10-03T07:24:00.001-06:00

Alright,so this last week we received a wonderful email informing us to take an online quiz through FA to better assess this incoming class, its needs, and our personal goals. The test really was like any other personality analyzer I'd gone through in the past; usually there's at least one a year through some sort of program. So, take the test and thought that'd just be it- JK! So then there's all this pondering about the questions they'd ask. Do I really have good study skills? Am I sleeping enough?

A few days later I found an email in my inbox- the results were in! Click the link and it takes me to a page on the BYU website that has all sorts of cool information. It showed my ranking on the assessment in comparison to the others that took it and had lots of background information that gave more background to the questions they asked. And the graphics were user friendly! If they had done the application process with something as simple and straight forward as that, I would have had a lot less stress.

This weekend is General Conference and it's pretty much like another holiday down here. Kids are plotting how to get home, get tickets and how/where to watch. Personally, my Mom and sister are coming down Friday, a friend is taking me to the morning session Saturday, and then I have a birthday party Saturday afternoon. I may be coming home Saturday night (with all my laundry done at home for free) and then just chill, study, and watch gen con down here at home.

A lot of the questions on the test were about homesickness. I think I'll be homesick when I go up this weekend. This is home. This is where I live. I love my family, I've just gained another one down here. If you're one of the one's dealing with thoughts of home, meet new people and make friends like crazy. You feel cool when you can say hi to everyone you meet, and it really puts you into the community down here.

I have another goal I'm working on- every one's names in the ward learned by the end of the month. Once I have the ward menu, I'm studying up!

think twice

2008-09-29T21:21:00.002-06:00

Finally! You've been saving for a laptop of your own now for months; today is the day that everything is going to become a reality. No more going to the library or bumming the family computer off Mom and Dad. You, with your own hard earned cash, are stepping into an investment of the grandest sort- technology. Before you get too carried away, have you given any thought to that extended warranty? With a high dollar item such as this, you may want to think twice.

Within these last few days, I have come to know how important such an investment is. This knowledge came to me as I first sat down to fulfill this very blog assignment and work on the final of our Op Ed, now due within a few short hours. My attempt was drastically cut short. Suddenly the color of my screen sucked itself into its center and popped away. Panic gradually grew as attempts to simply press the start button could not weild any life within my machine. The battery was removed, blown on, prayed for... still to no avail.

After a trip to a computer guru friend and an hour phone call with the help line, I began to see the grace in having my computer fail now, while still under its warranty. Had I not paid for the additional service, I would completely out of a computer and all of my technology stored within.

Though I'm going to be inconvieneced for about two weeks, it's much better than the alternative. To further arm yourself after your warranty expires, I highly suggest investing in an external hard drive. I now I have to deal with possibly loosing two years worth of papers, pictures, music, schedules and programs. GAH! At least I'm learning in my youth. Let my problem be a lesson to you- technology will eventually fail you; prepare against it.

people and the brain

2008-09-26T00:48:00.002-06:00

This is coming just a bit later at night-- slipped my mind for a bit. In our last class we talked about the brain and how it influences us as people. Along with a link to our Humanities class in discussing the Sophic and Mantic individual, we discussed testimonies and how we can know that truth is before us by recognizing the witness of the Holy Ghost.

I paid attention to this in my other classes this last week to see if I would really know when truth was before me. My Book of Mormon class had many faith strengthening moments.. something I usually expect from doctrine study. What I really came to know this last week with the Holy Ghost's witness is the importance of my Physical Science course. While it's just a basic GE, I know that the things I am learning in it now will help me in the Eternities as I create my own Worlds.

Kahi was hit by a car just the day before class last week and is an incredible trooper. He made the trek on his crutches to each of his classes. I know first hand being hit by a car is not the greatest feeling in the world, especially when all the soreness sets in the following day. Everyone's doing a great job of helping him out. I should see if I can visit him tomorrow. That'd be a good plan.

superiority complex

2008-09-23T00:06:00.000-06:00

A childhood in Galt, California. True happiness in Draper, Utah. I'm not pulling your leg or being sarcastic in any way, shape or form of the word. Although I make up part of the 31% of BYU Utahans, I haven't spent my entire existence within its boundaries. The move to Utah came the summer before 6th grade and was honestly a pretty devastating thing. I went from top dog, super smarty-pants to an isolated child.

My life didn't stay this way forever- obviously, I'm just not that type of person. Draper really is the best place to live because of the type of people you're able to meet, the standards they and the community hold, and the sheer amount of activities it offers within a five minute area.

Draper began to have an appeal for me once I began to meet the lifelong friends I still have to this day. The biggest thing about the move to Utah, besides leaving my Father, was leaving the Church. Once we moved out here we became inactive. I was young and didn't understand the monumentality of that decision. Friends I made at school and in my neighborhood really are responsible for bringing me back and helping me to become the person I am today.

While I knew EVERYBODY back in my elementary school, not necessarily everyone held the same standards that I did. By living in the area that I did, I was able to meet those that really strived to do their best and live life as the Savior did. I know all of my neighbors and can rely on them for anything. My ward is incredible. They love me, and my family, as individuals and only wish to serve. I was able to seek out the best friends and look to those that need to be emulated as examples in my own life.

Plus, life in Draper pretty much means you can do anything within a few minutes. There is an arena, field, court, pool, and store for every sport imaginable. We have mountains for your winter sports, a short drive offering lakes and rivers, and hundreds of restaurants and stores. Boredom isn't something that comes easily.

I have loved my life in Draper and will eternally sing praises to its name. I now know that my family's move to the area was an inspired thing to help me meet those that would allow me to perfect myself and return to the Light. While others may try to sway you, I know the truth. Draper is where true happiness resides.

hula happenins

2008-09-18T22:10:00.002-06:00

On this assignment I'll admit I procrastinated. Reading President Eyring's talk really inspired me and learning a hula to go with it only made me think of my art history teacher from last year. While I'm obnoxiously outgoing, I didn't quite want to look the part of a fool in front of my peers.. really my dancing skills are nill.

But it must be completed! I had taped it- I adore my camera but that's a whole other story- and decided to review it a couple of times before venturing out tonight. Once I had it pretty good I set out to my victims... err, anxious pupils.

I decided to go to Maser Hall- with three long time guy friends from middle school not in FA, they wouldn't let me down :) Will West wast first and only too happy to swivel his hips just a bit too much and help me out. Thanks Will. Then a quick jaunt across the basement took me to Mike and Tanner. At first they were very skeptical of my motives and made me perform like the uncoordinated fool I am. Upon being reassured it was for a homework assignment they stood and allowed themselves to be molded. Muah ha ha ha! Hopefully they have it down pat. Special thanks goes out to Will's unsuspecting roommate Matt Randall and dear Jenn Wright for just being in a wrong place wrong time situation and learning as well.

I still need to meet with an advisement center to meet my goal-- I'll attempt to schedule that tomorrow. I'm also working on uploading the video I taped in class. It's really high quality though and Facebook isn't quite sophisticated to handle its awesome at this time.

And if I have time in the near future, I'll find and post the link to Eyring's talk and our/my notes on it. Maybe favorite quotes? We'll see.

downside- whatevs!

2008-09-15T16:26:00.001-06:00

I am so glad that I have the opportunity to attend Brigham Young University. I love the professors, making my own food and hanging out with whoever-whenever. I’m sorta known as the partier among my roommates. This could be perhaps because I’m out all night playing games instead of really getting my work done. There’ve been a couple of times where I’ve been in a guy’s dorm past curfew but that doesn’t really matter- the Honor Code isn’t really even enforced so I can pretty much do what I want.
I was talking to this Junior kid last week and he was telling me all the ways to get around the “law.” Psch. It’s so easy. I don’t really like my roommates eating my applesause so I’ve been contemplating buying a mini fridge and putting it in my closet. The RAs and HAs don’t check there so you can stash whatever you want. I brought all my candles down too- I just can’t live without my sweet vanilla sugar burning all the time.
Plus, down here there’s like no dress code! I can totally bring out my mini skirt and just wear my cute leggings I bought over the summer- presto! Modest outfit!
I was in lab last week for my Physical Science class and it’s so easy to just copy the group work down. No stress! We were supposed to ride up and down this elevator like dorks and measure the difference in “contact force.” I hate science. No time for that in my life! So I just got one of the other girl’s papers and took down her notes. Turned it in and nobody’s the wiser.
Seriously guys. Signing the Honor Code paper doesn’t really do anything to you. We’re kids! Live up your life!

establishing a blog for all the classes

2008-09-11T18:06:00.004-06:00

This blog now encompasses both my personal life and experiences, as well as assignments for my English 150 class and my University 101. I could have made up separate web addresses for each of these, but I'm in a mood to conserve and retain that which I have no need to use. I don't need to create 20 different web addresses for myself and remember each of their passwords so this is how it's going to be.

To negotiate the differences, all my English assignments will have the tag "ENG 150 H" or something close to that, and all my Freshman Seminar blogs will have the tag "UNIV 101." It'll all make sense. No worries. You're smart.

Since there is no real direction to the Univ 101 assignments yet other than to record experiences, I'll just write that I'm loving the course. It's really making me think about my major and my life. I am so grateful to Aunt Cheryl and all that she taught me last year. I'm pretty much obsessed with Art History, I adore music, reading, poetry... any aesthetic experiences really. I love that we can discuss gospel in the middle of the class. My testimony grows with each day I have down here.

That'll be all for now I suppose. Once I have a prompt, there'll be more direction.

downside of the Y

2008-09-07T23:13:00.001-06:00

Attitude is everything. I cannot even begin to express how honored I feel about being able to attend this university. All throughout high school I was known as the happy outgoing girl that would be anyone's friend through thick and thin. While I met those that didn't exactly hold the same values that I did, I had hoped that those I would encounter at the Y would all be of the same high character that I so respect. Unfortunately I have found that this isn't the case. The most disturbing thing I have encountered so far are the individuals that choose not to follow the Honor Code.

Those that ignore the Honor Code really don't strike me as people I want to associate with. I understand that by following the rules, I gain more personal freedom. The Honor Code was at the top of the list on reasons why I wanted to attend BYU. I don't want to know the loop holes. I'm striving to stay as far away from the grey area as possible.

moving eve

2008-08-24T22:22:00.002-06:00

The move is tomorrow. Wow. It still doesn't feel like it.. and I have a TON to pack in the morning. The laundry has been going all day so I have some clean things to take down. I can't wait to meet everyone. PEOPLE GALORE!

I make some goals for the first semester and post them up here.. along with my thoughts about love. There's too much to say right now. I'll make this better- hopefully tomorrow if I'm all unpacked by then.

the one that started it all

2008-07-31T02:49:00.004-06:00

Post numero uno. I don't really know how this entire process works, but since the rest of the world seems to be getting into blogging, vlogging, and networking, I thought I should check out what the scene is all about.

I want to post stories on this site. Maybe just random things that are going through my mind. Just a little experiment to find out who I am. Know that I don't mean to offend- I'm just calling things like I see them.