I am waiting anxiously for tomorrow. I am leaving my house to rent out a hotel room so I can go to a New Year's Celebration. I might as well tell my plans now before in the morning. This is going to be pretty sweet.
I will wake up around 8 am tomorrow and leave my house around 9 am. I plan to be out of the house for the entire day and most of Tuesday, New Year's Day. I wanted to do something different than I have been which was stay in my house and watch the ball drop from one of the television station celebrations. I wanted action so I am taking this into my own hands. My sister and I decided this will be beneficial for both of us (besides this will be the first time that I have left my house in about ten days- I was resting a majority of that time). The hotel we are going to is nearby (within a 25 miles radius of my house). However, we will not be able to check in until after 3 pm. My plan is to sightsee near the hotel area. I need to pick up a couple of things including a digital camera to show you all of the happenings during this celebration and beyond. I promise not to get the camera waterlogged again. We will probably go somewhere in the vicinity to eat at a restaurant. I am not the fastest eater and the day will still be young so I will take my time and then check in the hotel soon after.
After checking in and settling in for a couple of hours, we will hit the highway (I-77) straight to downtown Cleveland. Even though we made reservations, we still need to pick up the tickets in the dock area before the boat leaves. I am not sure how the parking is going to be so I am thinking about leaving the car in the parking lot for fear that if we leave, we will not be able to secure a parking spot. This might cause us to miss the boat. I know you are wondering why I am talking about a boat. Well, we are going on the Nautica Queen for their New Year's celebration. Honestly, I do not know what is in store when the ship leaves its dock around 10 pm tomorrow. I know that there will be some sort of entertainment along with dinner and champagne. I do not know if the deck will be available or if there are be any surprises that I was not told about. The party will last until about 1:30 or 2 am. I think that will do us in and we will travel back to our hotel (which was their own celebration but the price was much more expensive so we opted not to do that package). I do not know if I will stay up and watch a movie or something. We will see; I am determined not to rush anything.
I do not feel like going directly back home so since I am out, I might as well do some shopping on New Year's Day. We have to check out of the hotel by noon on New Year's Day so we will probably go to Crocker Park in Westlake and maybe Great Northern Mall in North Olmsted. There are a lot of bargain out there and I am highly skilled at traversing the highway so why not. I presume that we will return back home by dusk and soak up all of the events of the past thirty-six or so hours. I think I will be wasted by all of this- not alcohol, but the events (BTW, this is CLEAR's slogan for this year- pretty witty, isn't it).
That is the plan of events for the next two days. There is no telling if this events will go smoothly or will have many bumps in the road. I have to test the waters and see for myself. I believe this will be fun for me and quite the experience. I will brief you (with pictures) in a couple days. Until then, have a happy New Year's.
Set for a new year of celebration,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Saturday, December 29, 2007
My New Year's Resolutions
I know it is a tad early for them but if I do not do this now, I will surely forget to do so. There are a couple of things that I am wishing to do either better than in 2007 or for the first time. I will explain them in detail, like usual.
Aiming for my goals,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
- Tap into my spiritual side. I felt that there were tremendous stride towards committing myself to a more spiritual self. There were many times that I faltered but I continued to push through. I hope that in 2008, I will be more connected than ever to my spiritual side and I hope that this will merge into my everyday life. This includes leaving daily time for the Bible, silent thought, prayer, going to church more, going to Crusade meetings in my house, venturing to Fellowship of Christian Athletes, going to one of my friend's Bible study, and promoting the Word more consistently. I want to listen to my music and really feel what the meaning of those spoken words are and tell people about that message. I want to make a honest connection with my spiritual side and become genuine with that side.
- Learn more about my weaknesses and improve on my strengths academically. This semester was rough on me. I never lost focus but sometimes, I felt that the courses I chose were the right combination. I wanted to have fun with the courses I chose, instead I felt constantly bogged and tired. I made mistakes in areas that never occurred before and struggled in areas that I could I improved on spring semester freshmen year. I have a lot of work to do. At the end of this semester, I clearly saw my weaknesses and had to improve on them. I see the weaknesses and for next semester, I have a vision for myself to improve. This is strategy for me. I am determined not to go back to the way I was. I can use the models of the work I destroyed as a do not do for next semester. I need to go to the writing center and see if anyone can provide a strategy for my writing style, which is alright but is often convoluted with unnecessary junk. Since all of my classes are strictly essay writing next semester, I think the writing can be monitored more closely. I also need to find people who are willing to help me proofread my papers. I need people who are honest and who can proofread particularly accomplished in history papers (e.g. HIST 493- senior history majors, you know who you are). I know that 2008 will be the year that I can change my habits that my History professors keep calling me out for all the while giving me constructive criticism. 2008 will be better than 2007 in terms of the quality of writing I can put out. I only have two history courses after the spring of 2008 and I want to be absolutely ready.
- Treat my body like a temple. Recently, I have put pigging out on fast food and treating myself to Delaware's restaurants. I do not go back to the fraternity house during lunch or dinner much so whenever I was hungry, I either had to ask one of my friends to get me food or I would use the money I earned working at Student Involvement to treat myself. As a result, I have packed on about twenty pounds; I weighed about 120 pounds when I arrived for Orientation and now I am close to 140 pounds. I do not mind the weight gain but I rather do it in a healthier manner. I know a lot of people who are suffering from diabetes because of all of the junk they put in their bodies. The things I put in my body have me concerned. Remember in my last post when I mentioned the Jack LaLanne power juicer. I am heavily considering bringing it. I want to have more healthy and not become another victim of high cholesterol and high blood pressure. I need the change in my life. I need to go to Kroger as soon as I arrive and get as much fruit and vegetables as possible in my hands and avoid red meats for a while. No fast foods, just a nice pomegranate or watermelon in my hands. This is a key resolution for me as many people have pointed out how bad my eating habits are, even though many of those people were joking somewhat- remember where I live, I have a lot of athlete around me. I think I will take their advice with the food.
- My last resolution is this: try to make time for myself. This will probably be the most difficult habit to break but I do not want to see my sanity in the process. Next semester, I am so busy. I need to make time to go to the gym more like my freshmen year where I need the wellness center outside of Stuyvesant Hall at least once every two weeks. My body was fit. Now, my body is losing that tightness and is becoming more flabby. Personally, I want that tightness back! Seriously, I want to relax more and with all of the events that I am doing away from the Ohio Wesleyan campus, I will be able to rest before the big events. I am seeing a lot of motels and hotels in the future, at least four of them. Hopefully, this will help with my resolution. There will be a lot of events in each I will be participating in on campus; that is what I am hoping I can just relax from. I do not have to go to all of the events but many of them are mandatory. I have some plans to balance my time out and no, none of these plans involve playing Halo or Fifa, two games which I cannot stand under any circumstance. It is not because they are annoying games; I just see everyone play those games. Anyway, my classes give me more of an opportunity to have study and free time. I will utilize the extra time to my advantage. This past semester, I had class, class, and more class on top of work and club meetings. I was begging to leave the Ohio Wesleyan campus at the end of Finals. I needed a break from the hustle and bustle of campus life.
Aiming for my goals,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Friday, December 28, 2007
When I was younger and at home more, I remember doing...
There were some things that I was able to do at home in my high school years more than I am able to do now. College is something that I have embraced more than I expected. Before I went to Ohio Wesleyan, I was fed all of these stories of other people's experiences in college. I had to go to different colleges before I decided on one to see if these stories could be potentially true and if they were, were they the right fit for me. I had a right more time to do whatever I wanted in high school; I did not have as many priorities as I do in my life now. I did not have meetings to attend, the organizations I am involved in are pretty in depth with the goals they set, and the classes/studying were not as time consuming. I have to worry about all of these things now and do not have all of the time to do these things that I did before I left. Enough on the background for the topic, let's get to the gist.
One of my favorite pastimes while in high school was after I finished my homework, I would love to relax playing video games. I am a video game aficionado and really enjoying the hours going away because of an intense battle. When I started playing video games, I was mostly interested in fighting games such as Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter. At my home, I have a SNES, a Genesis, a Nintendo an Atari 4000, a Dreamcast, and a Playstation 2 console. In high school, I played either from the Playstation 2 or the SNES console. These are the game consoles that had the majority of the fighting games on it. I remember sitting down and playing Street Fighter 2 until I got frustrated or my hands were numb and could not play the system any more. I would look on-line for codes for Mortal Kombat and memorize the combos of each character. I know, this is nerdy, but it helped in tournaments and arcade battle a whole lot. I would spend hours looking at the fatalities and training myself where to stand, what specific techniques character possesses, etc. As I got older, I got bored with the fighting genre and switched it up a little. I started played games such as Killswitch, Need for Speed, and Contra. I decided not to limit myself to one genre and explore other opportunities of video game excitement. I am just now getting back into the groove of things- really, I have not pick up a game controller until next Thursday. Guess what the game was- you bet, Street Fighter 2. That bought back memories. During the Break, I have started to play Naruto. I was introduced to the Naruto series back in freshmen year when I had a little, just a little time to spare. I am hooked to fighting games again. I should really invest in a Playstation 3 or better yet, a Nintendo Wii. I probably won't do it because of the lack of time I will have free.
Another thing I used to do before I left for Ohio Wesleyan is make smoothies. Believe it or not, making smoothies was a stress reliever for me. Whenever my family left the house to do their weekly grocery shopping, I plugged the Jack LaLanne power juicer up. True story: I bought the juicer off Home Shopping Network for a Christmas present. As Naruto would say- "Believe it!" Anyway, I would take the juicer out and there would normally be an abundance of fruit laying around the kitchen (someone in the house would buy fruit for the week). I would pick my choices and blend the ingredient to a pulp. My favorite concoction would always involve apples and bananas and the rest of the ingredients would be an random, one week would be pears and grapefruit for a sour mix and the next week would be golden pineapples and watermelons. I had a system going for a while and the juicer still sits in the kitchen of my home. I have been tempted to use it over break but there is not enough fruit here to make an entire batch so the house can try some. I better put it to use soon though otherwise, the entire mechanism will become rusty and not as effective as before. I paid a good amount of money for the juicer and I want my money's worth. It is a good bet that the house is not really using the machine with the exception of my brother so I might take it back to my house in two weeks. This way, I can drink more healthy food instead of a daily intake of orange soda. The one bad thing about the juicer- the amount of time it takes to clean it up. Every crevice of the machine is affected by the remaining bits of pulp that did not get blended. I never said that the juicer was perfect just very effective in giving a person what they want in a drink. I know that the pros outweigh the cons so this does not bother me much. I want to bring that memory back into my life.
I dreamed about my future a lot when I was younger especially in high school. The future was so close that I could taste it with the scholarship opportunities, the decision about college, watching my friends experience different lifestyles, the list goes on. I pondered what kind of job would fit me. I did not wish to work in the fast food chain like how a lot of my friends did. Some of my friends did work with cars- I did not want a trade like that. I always thought that I would be in a job with security and many benefits to them. I dreamed of the opportunity to work with the best. I was persuaded to work for my own self- that was the ultimate goal so that I did not have to put up with restrictions of someone that was higher than me. Realistically, I knew that I needed experience in a certain field before I can manage to do that. I always wanted to be in a field that dealt heavily with computers. I did robotics and I was hooked to the programming portion of it, thinking that would be a cool career to have. If I didn't have programming in my future, I would still be interested in a career with computers. Programming was the first type of career in computers and information technology that I was introduced to. Toward the end of my career in high school, I realized there is so many different directions I can take to succeed in a career with computers, not just programming. My future became my reality when I was awarded a stipend for the fall semester of my freshmen and I was granted an internship opportunity with Parker-Hannifin. All of the thoughts I have been dreaming off once I started to use the robotics program were made into reality. Where that takes me- I have no idea. I have to keep dreaming.
The last main thing that I did before I left for Ohio Wesleyan was write. If you would have told me that I would be writing for Ohio Wesleyan as a blogger to share my life with students, parents, and those interested in Ohio Wesleyan in my senior year of high school, I would have shrugged you off. My tenth grade honors English teacher had us write a journal entry every day. This inspired me to do writing on my own for a while. I still my entries where I wrote in the morning about what I thought would happen that day and my reflections on what happened. I miss writing in that journal and keeping a mental note of what was happening around me. Writing in my journal was special to me because I had never endeavored to do such a thing before so it is like my precious message to myself whenever I look back into the past. What happened to me, what happened to people that I care about, what was the high and low points in my life. That journal give me direction to what I am today and where I am poised to go in the future.
These past events are significant to me and to my development as to who I am now. Many of these things I have gone without in the past one and a half semesters; however, they helped me calm myself and take my mind off things in my life, no matter how trivial some of these things seem. I am a video game aficionado, a health man, a dreamer, and a writer. I am all of these things which shape me. The younger me is a cool guy and still has a grip of the current me, even though I was doing newer things and focusing on other interests. Sometimes, I wish the younger me would come out more and blend with the current me. I know that will happen sooner than later; it just takes time. Ultimately, I am happy with who I am now and the past events that I described that gave me comfort in some way, shape, or form.
Letting the past, the current, and the future form the total package,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
One of my favorite pastimes while in high school was after I finished my homework, I would love to relax playing video games. I am a video game aficionado and really enjoying the hours going away because of an intense battle. When I started playing video games, I was mostly interested in fighting games such as Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter. At my home, I have a SNES, a Genesis, a Nintendo an Atari 4000, a Dreamcast, and a Playstation 2 console. In high school, I played either from the Playstation 2 or the SNES console. These are the game consoles that had the majority of the fighting games on it. I remember sitting down and playing Street Fighter 2 until I got frustrated or my hands were numb and could not play the system any more. I would look on-line for codes for Mortal Kombat and memorize the combos of each character. I know, this is nerdy, but it helped in tournaments and arcade battle a whole lot. I would spend hours looking at the fatalities and training myself where to stand, what specific techniques character possesses, etc. As I got older, I got bored with the fighting genre and switched it up a little. I started played games such as Killswitch, Need for Speed, and Contra. I decided not to limit myself to one genre and explore other opportunities of video game excitement. I am just now getting back into the groove of things- really, I have not pick up a game controller until next Thursday. Guess what the game was- you bet, Street Fighter 2. That bought back memories. During the Break, I have started to play Naruto. I was introduced to the Naruto series back in freshmen year when I had a little, just a little time to spare. I am hooked to fighting games again. I should really invest in a Playstation 3 or better yet, a Nintendo Wii. I probably won't do it because of the lack of time I will have free.
Another thing I used to do before I left for Ohio Wesleyan is make smoothies. Believe it or not, making smoothies was a stress reliever for me. Whenever my family left the house to do their weekly grocery shopping, I plugged the Jack LaLanne power juicer up. True story: I bought the juicer off Home Shopping Network for a Christmas present. As Naruto would say- "Believe it!" Anyway, I would take the juicer out and there would normally be an abundance of fruit laying around the kitchen (someone in the house would buy fruit for the week). I would pick my choices and blend the ingredient to a pulp. My favorite concoction would always involve apples and bananas and the rest of the ingredients would be an random, one week would be pears and grapefruit for a sour mix and the next week would be golden pineapples and watermelons. I had a system going for a while and the juicer still sits in the kitchen of my home. I have been tempted to use it over break but there is not enough fruit here to make an entire batch so the house can try some. I better put it to use soon though otherwise, the entire mechanism will become rusty and not as effective as before. I paid a good amount of money for the juicer and I want my money's worth. It is a good bet that the house is not really using the machine with the exception of my brother so I might take it back to my house in two weeks. This way, I can drink more healthy food instead of a daily intake of orange soda. The one bad thing about the juicer- the amount of time it takes to clean it up. Every crevice of the machine is affected by the remaining bits of pulp that did not get blended. I never said that the juicer was perfect just very effective in giving a person what they want in a drink. I know that the pros outweigh the cons so this does not bother me much. I want to bring that memory back into my life.
I dreamed about my future a lot when I was younger especially in high school. The future was so close that I could taste it with the scholarship opportunities, the decision about college, watching my friends experience different lifestyles, the list goes on. I pondered what kind of job would fit me. I did not wish to work in the fast food chain like how a lot of my friends did. Some of my friends did work with cars- I did not want a trade like that. I always thought that I would be in a job with security and many benefits to them. I dreamed of the opportunity to work with the best. I was persuaded to work for my own self- that was the ultimate goal so that I did not have to put up with restrictions of someone that was higher than me. Realistically, I knew that I needed experience in a certain field before I can manage to do that. I always wanted to be in a field that dealt heavily with computers. I did robotics and I was hooked to the programming portion of it, thinking that would be a cool career to have. If I didn't have programming in my future, I would still be interested in a career with computers. Programming was the first type of career in computers and information technology that I was introduced to. Toward the end of my career in high school, I realized there is so many different directions I can take to succeed in a career with computers, not just programming. My future became my reality when I was awarded a stipend for the fall semester of my freshmen and I was granted an internship opportunity with Parker-Hannifin. All of the thoughts I have been dreaming off once I started to use the robotics program were made into reality. Where that takes me- I have no idea. I have to keep dreaming.
The last main thing that I did before I left for Ohio Wesleyan was write. If you would have told me that I would be writing for Ohio Wesleyan as a blogger to share my life with students, parents, and those interested in Ohio Wesleyan in my senior year of high school, I would have shrugged you off. My tenth grade honors English teacher had us write a journal entry every day. This inspired me to do writing on my own for a while. I still my entries where I wrote in the morning about what I thought would happen that day and my reflections on what happened. I miss writing in that journal and keeping a mental note of what was happening around me. Writing in my journal was special to me because I had never endeavored to do such a thing before so it is like my precious message to myself whenever I look back into the past. What happened to me, what happened to people that I care about, what was the high and low points in my life. That journal give me direction to what I am today and where I am poised to go in the future.
These past events are significant to me and to my development as to who I am now. Many of these things I have gone without in the past one and a half semesters; however, they helped me calm myself and take my mind off things in my life, no matter how trivial some of these things seem. I am a video game aficionado, a health man, a dreamer, and a writer. I am all of these things which shape me. The younger me is a cool guy and still has a grip of the current me, even though I was doing newer things and focusing on other interests. Sometimes, I wish the younger me would come out more and blend with the current me. I know that will happen sooner than later; it just takes time. Ultimately, I am happy with who I am now and the past events that I described that gave me comfort in some way, shape, or form.
Letting the past, the current, and the future form the total package,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Most music today does not have class
I don't know about you but music lacks class today. I know for some of you, a twenty year old from mainstream should not be saying this but seriously, I am tired of listening to music that does not have significant meaning to it. Lately, I have been hearing music such as Soulja Boy's Crank That and I admit it was catchy the initial twenty times I heard on Youtube or a person's radio driving by the campus. When I tried to listen out for the lyrics, I didn't catch anything important or awe-striking. I kept hearing the word "You." On top of that, the song has a dance to it. It is catchy too but to me, the dance is kind of silly. I know artist want the money and the quick means to success but this is killing me.
I know I sound older when I say this but remember the days when there were artists like Tupac. Okay, to be fair, they were talking about things that were not idealistic but they balanced these things out with other songs that talked about something. I am a conscious guy- songs about misogyny and flaunting money will not cut it. I listen to songs like Common's "The Corner" and "Retrospect for Life" featuring Lauryn Hill. I like listening to real life stories where the situation is real and the people are not in the best position at first but then realize that they can do better and turn their lives around. I don't like my music sugarcoated because real life is not sugarcoated. The problems that many of us face needs to be told to the mainstream and underground audiences. The occasional party song that be broadcasted but real music needs to be broadcasted all of the time.
In my Ipod, I carry a lot of diverse, eclectic artists with soulrendering songs. Included in my selection are Maxwell, Twista, and R. Kelly for the mainstream R&B, and artists such as Evanescence and Linkin Park for Alternative and Rock. Whenever I need inspiration to do something bigger than myself, I use either Classical music, preferably Andrea Bocelli or Josh Groban or my Contemporary Christian or Gospel music such as Avalon, Natalie Grant, and Jeremy Camp to revive my spirit. I want to be able to diversify with my music and not be stuck on the same monotonous material. I like all types of music but I have more music from the 90's than anything. I think the material from the 90's carries a lot more of an impact on a person's life. This was my first full decade of life and some of the hits then will have a long sustaining impact on me.
I don't know. I guess the material on the radio has finally gotten to me. Everywhere I turn to on the radio, I hear the same material. I have turned off the radio and now only listen to my Ipod. A healthy mind can start by filtering all of the bad stuff and broadening my mind with new material that provides diversity in music selection. I am like many people especially people with children- "I don't want my child hearing that stuff." It may be inevitable that children will hear this music of today but I want to provide the best diverse and musical selection for my child. I know this is a parental instinct but I believe enough is enough. This is why my Ipod is so helpful in maintaining the taste that I like. I will say it again- most music today do not have the class that the music of the 90's has. The music that does I will purchase on my Itunes program and happily listen to it. This is how I feel about music today.
Your music conscious man,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
I know I sound older when I say this but remember the days when there were artists like Tupac. Okay, to be fair, they were talking about things that were not idealistic but they balanced these things out with other songs that talked about something. I am a conscious guy- songs about misogyny and flaunting money will not cut it. I listen to songs like Common's "The Corner" and "Retrospect for Life" featuring Lauryn Hill. I like listening to real life stories where the situation is real and the people are not in the best position at first but then realize that they can do better and turn their lives around. I don't like my music sugarcoated because real life is not sugarcoated. The problems that many of us face needs to be told to the mainstream and underground audiences. The occasional party song that be broadcasted but real music needs to be broadcasted all of the time.
In my Ipod, I carry a lot of diverse, eclectic artists with soulrendering songs. Included in my selection are Maxwell, Twista, and R. Kelly for the mainstream R&B, and artists such as Evanescence and Linkin Park for Alternative and Rock. Whenever I need inspiration to do something bigger than myself, I use either Classical music, preferably Andrea Bocelli or Josh Groban or my Contemporary Christian or Gospel music such as Avalon, Natalie Grant, and Jeremy Camp to revive my spirit. I want to be able to diversify with my music and not be stuck on the same monotonous material. I like all types of music but I have more music from the 90's than anything. I think the material from the 90's carries a lot more of an impact on a person's life. This was my first full decade of life and some of the hits then will have a long sustaining impact on me.
I don't know. I guess the material on the radio has finally gotten to me. Everywhere I turn to on the radio, I hear the same material. I have turned off the radio and now only listen to my Ipod. A healthy mind can start by filtering all of the bad stuff and broadening my mind with new material that provides diversity in music selection. I am like many people especially people with children- "I don't want my child hearing that stuff." It may be inevitable that children will hear this music of today but I want to provide the best diverse and musical selection for my child. I know this is a parental instinct but I believe enough is enough. This is why my Ipod is so helpful in maintaining the taste that I like. I will say it again- most music today do not have the class that the music of the 90's has. The music that does I will purchase on my Itunes program and happily listen to it. This is how I feel about music today.
Your music conscious man,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Post 50... Let us reflect and let me post something fun
It is weird since it has been over a year since I have started blogging. I have learned a lot from myself and from individuals that have taken the time to respond to the topics of my blog. Some of the responses have been constructive criticisms to the topics I wrote about and some of the responses have been reflections and thank yous for other topics. I am happy to still blog my thoughts to you. This winter break has made me realize just how much I love writing and getting a response out of people whatever I talk about a specific topic. For my 50th post, I want to talk from something that is a hot topic among die hard and enthusiastic Clevelanders and people that support Cleveland- Cleveland sports.
There are three main sports areas that a die hard Cleveland fan must have: Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers. One must not go without their weekly dose of LeBron, K2, and Pronk. Being a Clevelander has made me appreciate all of the hard work that the athletes have to go through week in and week out. Surely, I emote as much as other fans do when a pennant is clenched. Yes, I was at the clincher at Jacobs Fields for the Indians. I think that it will be our time and that Cleveland fans need to rise up and answer the call of duty very soon. For now, I hope that people can enjoy the exhilarating ride.
Let me start by addressing the Indians. We did not win it all but I believe it was their best showing in a while. It was overdue but well worth the wait. I believe that the Indians will make another run for the championship considering their lineup and their pitching. With people like Victor Martinez, Travis Hafner, and C.C. Sabathia, I think that the team can be another 1995-1997 diamond in the rough. Obviously, the team needs to continue having a balance of pitching and scoring but I do not think that will be a problem in the upcoming season or the season after if management does not change things dramatically. I think that the Indians are the underdogs and usually, I root for the underdogs (I am an underdog myself in most situations, so there you have it). I do not have anything negative to say. Continue playing with consistency, guys!
The Browns. I am crossing my fingers like all true Browns fans. I hope that the Browns can win and go to the playoffs. I think this season has been the best, bar none. The team has had chemistry, especially in the middle of the season. Derek Anderson has finally developed into a good quarterback. I do not believe that he will ever be on the caliber of a Peyton Manning but Anderson has found his niche in Cleveland. That quarterback question at the beginning of the season did not help matters for Cleveland so I am glad that someone stepped up for the position. As for the last playoff spot, I think that the Browns deserve it a little more. I do not believe the Titans are that good and even with the Colts resting their star players, I think the Titans will close to the 13-2 Colts, no doubt. I will change my mind if the Titans beat the Colts and say that the Titans deserve it more. Until Sunday, my mind is the same. If the Browns advance to the playoffs, it will be a late Christmas gift and people's first resolution in sports concerning a fast start next season. The question is "Will the Browns break hearts or make us into believers?" We will see in four days.
Last but certainly not least, the Cavaliers. Honestly, I knew that we are not ready for the Spurs in the Finals. The game against Detroit was awe-inspiring but the matchup drained our energy. Turning to the current season, the Cavs are straddling the line with fans. I know that with the emergence of the threesome in Boston and the consistency of Detroit that the Cavs were going to have an uphill battle. I did not expect the Cavs to be under .500 at this point of the season. I still thought that they would be top contenders in the conference race. I see that some factors such as Anderson "Wild Thing" Varejao holdout, King James injury after the Detroit game (causing the other Cavs to lose five straight games), and the low production of Larry Hughes and Sasha Pavlovic to bury the Cavs. Hopefully, the Cavs can get their wings back and regain their position as top contenders. I suppose a trade will help but right now, we need all the people we can get to contribute and make sure that the burden is not on LeBron. I know we have the talent and the ability to go back to the playoffs and shut some naysayers up.
This ends my report for Cleveland sports. Cleveland is building itself again to become to premier town for sports. We are witnesses just like the billboard downtown says. Now we just have to continue supporting our teams so that they will respond with a championship. I am down for that feeling of a jubilant city celebrating success.
Loving Cleveland Sports,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
There are three main sports areas that a die hard Cleveland fan must have: Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers. One must not go without their weekly dose of LeBron, K2, and Pronk. Being a Clevelander has made me appreciate all of the hard work that the athletes have to go through week in and week out. Surely, I emote as much as other fans do when a pennant is clenched. Yes, I was at the clincher at Jacobs Fields for the Indians. I think that it will be our time and that Cleveland fans need to rise up and answer the call of duty very soon. For now, I hope that people can enjoy the exhilarating ride.
Let me start by addressing the Indians. We did not win it all but I believe it was their best showing in a while. It was overdue but well worth the wait. I believe that the Indians will make another run for the championship considering their lineup and their pitching. With people like Victor Martinez, Travis Hafner, and C.C. Sabathia, I think that the team can be another 1995-1997 diamond in the rough. Obviously, the team needs to continue having a balance of pitching and scoring but I do not think that will be a problem in the upcoming season or the season after if management does not change things dramatically. I think that the Indians are the underdogs and usually, I root for the underdogs (I am an underdog myself in most situations, so there you have it). I do not have anything negative to say. Continue playing with consistency, guys!
The Browns. I am crossing my fingers like all true Browns fans. I hope that the Browns can win and go to the playoffs. I think this season has been the best, bar none. The team has had chemistry, especially in the middle of the season. Derek Anderson has finally developed into a good quarterback. I do not believe that he will ever be on the caliber of a Peyton Manning but Anderson has found his niche in Cleveland. That quarterback question at the beginning of the season did not help matters for Cleveland so I am glad that someone stepped up for the position. As for the last playoff spot, I think that the Browns deserve it a little more. I do not believe the Titans are that good and even with the Colts resting their star players, I think the Titans will close to the 13-2 Colts, no doubt. I will change my mind if the Titans beat the Colts and say that the Titans deserve it more. Until Sunday, my mind is the same. If the Browns advance to the playoffs, it will be a late Christmas gift and people's first resolution in sports concerning a fast start next season. The question is "Will the Browns break hearts or make us into believers?" We will see in four days.
Last but certainly not least, the Cavaliers. Honestly, I knew that we are not ready for the Spurs in the Finals. The game against Detroit was awe-inspiring but the matchup drained our energy. Turning to the current season, the Cavs are straddling the line with fans. I know that with the emergence of the threesome in Boston and the consistency of Detroit that the Cavs were going to have an uphill battle. I did not expect the Cavs to be under .500 at this point of the season. I still thought that they would be top contenders in the conference race. I see that some factors such as Anderson "Wild Thing" Varejao holdout, King James injury after the Detroit game (causing the other Cavs to lose five straight games), and the low production of Larry Hughes and Sasha Pavlovic to bury the Cavs. Hopefully, the Cavs can get their wings back and regain their position as top contenders. I suppose a trade will help but right now, we need all the people we can get to contribute and make sure that the burden is not on LeBron. I know we have the talent and the ability to go back to the playoffs and shut some naysayers up.
This ends my report for Cleveland sports. Cleveland is building itself again to become to premier town for sports. We are witnesses just like the billboard downtown says. Now we just have to continue supporting our teams so that they will respond with a championship. I am down for that feeling of a jubilant city celebrating success.
Loving Cleveland Sports,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Monday, December 24, 2007
I found this info about being Greek interesting to share...
This topic has been on my mind for the longest time. I did not know how to address it at first but it has to come out someway. I figure this is the best way. I found the following information on Facebook about
The REAL Secret Behind Greek Life
Think Greeks are all about parties and paying for friends?? Have the idea that all sorority women are easy and fraternity men are stupid? Imagine goats being sacrificed when you think of ritual? Call Greeks followers and conformists?? If so, you may want to rethink everything because in reality you're the one following the stereotypes of Greek Life given by the media and gossip.
The REAL secret behind Greek Life is simple but first lets look at some facts!
*Nationally, 71% of all Greeks graduate, while only 50% of non-Greeks graduate.
*The All Greek GPA is higher than the overall collegiate GPA.
*Since 1910, 85% of the Supreme Court Justices have been Greek.
*85% of the Fortune 500 key executives are Greek.
*Of the nation's 50 largest corporations, 43 are headed by Greeks.
*76% of Who's Who in America are Greek.
*All but two Presidents since 1825 have been Greek.
*70% of the U.S. Presidents' cabinet members since 1900 have been Greek.
*76% of U.S. Senators are Greek.
*Both women appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court were sorority members.
*Over 85% of the student leaders on 730 campuses are members of Greek-letter organizations.
*Less then 2% of an average college students expenses go towards Greek membership dues.
*A study by the University of Missouri found that Greeks throughout the US and Canada are more involved on their campuses and rate their overall university experience better.
*The same study found that Greeks are more involved in their communities; and give more generously to their alma maters.
*Greeks form the largest network of volunteers in the U.S.-Nationally, Greeks volunteer approximately 10 million hours of community service annually.
*Greek Life strongly encourages within its community to uphold the ideals that they were founded on: sisterhood and brotherhood, scholarship, leadership, philanthropy, and becoming better citizens of society.
*Hazing is against National Greek Headquarters policies.
*Nationally, Greek organizations are the largest and most visible value-based student organizations.
Now that you have read some facts concerning Greek Life, here are *some* familiar names who are Greek who might help you see how Greek Life helps people succeed!
Martin Luther King Jr, Adam Sandler, Admiral James J. Carey, Al Michaels, Ali Landry, Alice Sheets Marriot, Allen Bean, Alonzo Mourning, Amy Grant, Andy Griffith, Andy Rooney, Ann Margaret, Aretha Franklin, Ashley Judd, Aston Kutcher, Ben Savage, Bill Clinton, Bill Cosby, Bob Barker, Bobby Jones, Brad Pitt, Burt Reynolds, Cedric the Entertainer, Colonel Sanders, Coretta Scott King, Cybil Shepard, Danny Thomas, Dave Thomas, David Duchovny, David Letterman, David Spade, David Stern, Dick Clark, Dionne Warwick, Dr. Alyce Gullantee, Dr. Collette Kohler, Dr. Seuss, Drew Carey, Dwight Eisenhower, Elvis Presley, Faye Dunaway, Fred Savage, Gladys Knight, Goldie Hawn, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jennifer Garner, John Wayne, Johnny Carson, Kate Spade, Katie Couric, Kurt Vonnegut, Lucy Lui, Matthew McConaughey, Michael Jordan, Molly Sims, Neil Armstrong, Nick Lachey, Roger Ebert, Rosa Parks, Shaquille O'Neal, Sheryl Crow, Stephen Spielberg, Will Ferrel, Woody Harrelson, just to name a few...
Quotes Regarding Greek Life:
*Letters today, Leaders tomorrow
*No matter the Letters, we're all Greek together
*Not four years, but for life
*Fraternities and Sororities symbolize all that we wish to accomplish in our lives. They represent the struggles we all face as we grow. Why we cling to them no one can explain, but in the end, we are all stronger for it
*People ask why I am in a sorority and I try to explain all the things a sorority is that they cannot see. A sorority is more than letters on a sweatshirt, I say. More than traditional songs, a gold pin, rituals, and obligation, or a way of life. A sorority is learning about people, a sorority is giving without expecting a return. A sorority is earning respect from others, as well as for yourself. A sorority will not solve all your problems. But I have made good friends and found confidence there to help me take life one step at a time.
*Even though the dues I pay for are like any other club fees (though more expensive because my organization is much more than a club) go toward housing, if I WERE paying for my friends, I wouldn't be paying enough!!!
So now that you have seen a glimpse of what Greek Life is all about, I hope that you will gain a better understanding about Greeks and not give in to believing the stereotypes. True, there are definitely some members who don't quite get what we're about yet and yes they need to learn but STOP THE JUDGING on all of us. Get to know an indivudual before you make an assumption based on their personal choice. After all, the REAL secret behind Greek Life isn't that we hold some magical powers in our rituals or that we only get to high places through networking. We are regular people wanting to do great things and we accomplish all of this with the skills we acquire through our time spent in our Greek organizations!
Most importantly...we all stand together in both good and bad times. The Greek system is a huge support unit to say the least. My school, The University of Memphis, was recently hit by tragedy and we lost two of our Greek members. The amount of support shown within our family can't be described in words. There is a difference between friendships and brother/sisterhood. I'm not saying one isn't more valuable than the other but the bonds of sisterhood and brotherhood are bonds that can never be touched.
FROM THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN, YOU CAN NEVER UNDERSTAND IT. FROM THE INSIDE LOOKING OUT, YOU CAN NEVER EXPLAIN IT!
Now for my thoughts:
I knew that I wanted to pledge somewhere in college. That is why I took the time out to research these national and international organizations on my campus. I did rush events as a freshman and I visited all nine fraternity houses to get a feel for if I wanted to live there. Some of the houses were nice and the members were welcoming while others were more remote and selective in having random men viewing their houses. Nonetheless, I found a home in Phi Delta Theta. I had my reservations about certain things when I was pledging in the spring. One of those reservations was about "How will I balance the pledge process with the overwhelming amount of classes and other responsibilities I had on my plate. Unlike the rest of my pledge class, my responsibilities did not end after basketball season or the end of a theatre production. I needed some time to develop so I could be devoted to the pledge process. Another one of my reservations was that even if I did cross in the spring, will I be able to help out enough for the class next in line? With my responsibilities in other organizations going for another academic year, would I be able to commit to all of the activities I have to help out with for rush events and pledging. I didn't want the other guys to think that the other organizations I am a part of would render me useless to the next set of guys coming in. All of these thoughts rushed into my head and gave me doubts in the middle of pledging.
Realizing all of this, I took the spring days one day at a time and eventually, I crossed into my first year of being a Greek. The first semester was not bad for me; it is the second semester I am worried about. The one thing I did have to worry about was trying to make people understand that going Greek is not supposed to take your manhood away or to give people a picture of movies such as "Animal House." I found myself educating freshmen and unaffiliated persons about the advantages of Greek life at Ohio Wesleyan and how it can benefit you throughout your time here and outside of Ohio Wesleyan. I have made some believers out of people and others are still skeptical about how the Greek system works. I want to be the person (or one of the people) who rid stereotypes of the Greek system so that the Greek system can become more efficient in recruitment and its presence on the Ohio Wesleyan campus. 35% of the student body is Greek. This is a far cry compared to the percentage of the student body in the 1970's and 1980's. Incoming freshmen are not exposed enough to the positives. Sometimes, the only times that many people on campus are exposed to Greek life is during parties advertised on Facebook or as ads on campus. Most of these parties have alcohol in them and many students just want to have fun without the alcohol or rude people, i.e. from my experience.
I feel that it doesn't matter if you are international or domestic, Greek life should be presented on equal terms. I represented Greek life as soon as I started my Orientation leader schedule in August; this was my first introduction to the new student body of 2011. Whether I was aware of being the representative, I knew of one thing, I AM OWU. Let's face it, Greek Life is OWU. There are many teachers and administrators on campus that are Greek and are proud of their experiences as Greek men and women. They would not take it back and either would I. Despite the differences that some of the fraternities have with each other, I am not going to discriminate against another fraternity just because of their history or the people who have pledged there. Just like Facebook stated, we are all Greek so whether people at OWU like it or not, we all share a common bond in joining that we all hold dearly to our hearts forever. In conclusion, I am doing all that I can to invite people who have little or no clue about fraternity as well as people who are interesting in joining a fraternity like Phi Delta Theta AND even people who are already in another fraternity on campus to events and on regular days to chill, study, or whatever they want. For me, this is the best and the only way to create awareness of a fraternity on campus.
If anyone wants to comment about their experience in Greek Life or about my blog about Greek Life whether it is my feelings or the Facebook feelings, feel free. I am welcoming any and all comments and constructive criticism.
Greek Life Forever,
Hasani Wheat
Phi Delta Theta
Class of '10
The REAL secret behind Greek Life is simple but first lets look at some facts!
*Nationally, 71% of all Greeks graduate, while only 50% of non-Greeks graduate.
*The All Greek GPA is higher than the overall collegiate GPA.
*Since 1910, 85% of the Supreme Court Justices have been Greek.
*85% of the Fortune 500 key executives are Greek.
*Of the nation's 50 largest corporations, 43 are headed by Greeks.
*76% of Who's Who in America are Greek.
*All but two Presidents since 1825 have been Greek.
*70% of the U.S. Presidents' cabinet members since 1900 have been Greek.
*76% of U.S. Senators are Greek.
*Both women appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court were sorority members.
*Over 85% of the student leaders on 730 campuses are members of Greek-letter organizations.
*Less then 2% of an average college students expenses go towards Greek membership dues.
*A study by the University of Missouri found that Greeks throughout the US and Canada are more involved on their campuses and rate their overall university experience better.
*The same study found that Greeks are more involved in their communities; and give more generously to their alma maters.
*Greeks form the largest network of volunteers in the U.S.-Nationally, Greeks volunteer approximately 10 million hours of community service annually.
*Greek Life strongly encourages within its community to uphold the ideals that they were founded on: sisterhood and brotherhood, scholarship, leadership, philanthropy, and becoming better citizens of society.
*Hazing is against National Greek Headquarters policies.
*Nationally, Greek organizations are the largest and most visible value-based student organizations.
Now that you have read some facts concerning Greek Life, here are *some* familiar names who are Greek who might help you see how Greek Life helps people succeed!
Martin Luther King Jr, Adam Sandler, Admiral James J. Carey, Al Michaels, Ali Landry, Alice Sheets Marriot, Allen Bean, Alonzo Mourning, Amy Grant, Andy Griffith, Andy Rooney, Ann Margaret, Aretha Franklin, Ashley Judd, Aston Kutcher, Ben Savage, Bill Clinton, Bill Cosby, Bob Barker, Bobby Jones, Brad Pitt, Burt Reynolds, Cedric the Entertainer, Colonel Sanders, Coretta Scott King, Cybil Shepard, Danny Thomas, Dave Thomas, David Duchovny, David Letterman, David Spade, David Stern, Dick Clark, Dionne Warwick, Dr. Alyce Gullantee, Dr. Collette Kohler, Dr. Seuss, Drew Carey, Dwight Eisenhower, Elvis Presley, Faye Dunaway, Fred Savage, Gladys Knight, Goldie Hawn, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jennifer Garner, John Wayne, Johnny Carson, Kate Spade, Katie Couric, Kurt Vonnegut, Lucy Lui, Matthew McConaughey, Michael Jordan, Molly Sims, Neil Armstrong, Nick Lachey, Roger Ebert, Rosa Parks, Shaquille O'Neal, Sheryl Crow, Stephen Spielberg, Will Ferrel, Woody Harrelson, just to name a few...
Quotes Regarding Greek Life:
*Letters today, Leaders tomorrow
*No matter the Letters, we're all Greek together
*Not four years, but for life
*Fraternities and Sororities symbolize all that we wish to accomplish in our lives. They represent the struggles we all face as we grow. Why we cling to them no one can explain, but in the end, we are all stronger for it
*People ask why I am in a sorority and I try to explain all the things a sorority is that they cannot see. A sorority is more than letters on a sweatshirt, I say. More than traditional songs, a gold pin, rituals, and obligation, or a way of life. A sorority is learning about people, a sorority is giving without expecting a return. A sorority is earning respect from others, as well as for yourself. A sorority will not solve all your problems. But I have made good friends and found confidence there to help me take life one step at a time.
*Even though the dues I pay for are like any other club fees (though more expensive because my organization is much more than a club) go toward housing, if I WERE paying for my friends, I wouldn't be paying enough!!!
So now that you have seen a glimpse of what Greek Life is all about, I hope that you will gain a better understanding about Greeks and not give in to believing the stereotypes. True, there are definitely some members who don't quite get what we're about yet and yes they need to learn but STOP THE JUDGING on all of us. Get to know an indivudual before you make an assumption based on their personal choice. After all, the REAL secret behind Greek Life isn't that we hold some magical powers in our rituals or that we only get to high places through networking. We are regular people wanting to do great things and we accomplish all of this with the skills we acquire through our time spent in our Greek organizations!
Most importantly...we all stand together in both good and bad times. The Greek system is a huge support unit to say the least. My school, The University of Memphis, was recently hit by tragedy and we lost two of our Greek members. The amount of support shown within our family can't be described in words. There is a difference between friendships and brother/sisterhood. I'm not saying one isn't more valuable than the other but the bonds of sisterhood and brotherhood are bonds that can never be touched.
FROM THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN, YOU CAN NEVER UNDERSTAND IT. FROM THE INSIDE LOOKING OUT, YOU CAN NEVER EXPLAIN IT!
Now for my thoughts:
I knew that I wanted to pledge somewhere in college. That is why I took the time out to research these national and international organizations on my campus. I did rush events as a freshman and I visited all nine fraternity houses to get a feel for if I wanted to live there. Some of the houses were nice and the members were welcoming while others were more remote and selective in having random men viewing their houses. Nonetheless, I found a home in Phi Delta Theta. I had my reservations about certain things when I was pledging in the spring. One of those reservations was about "How will I balance the pledge process with the overwhelming amount of classes and other responsibilities I had on my plate. Unlike the rest of my pledge class, my responsibilities did not end after basketball season or the end of a theatre production. I needed some time to develop so I could be devoted to the pledge process. Another one of my reservations was that even if I did cross in the spring, will I be able to help out enough for the class next in line? With my responsibilities in other organizations going for another academic year, would I be able to commit to all of the activities I have to help out with for rush events and pledging. I didn't want the other guys to think that the other organizations I am a part of would render me useless to the next set of guys coming in. All of these thoughts rushed into my head and gave me doubts in the middle of pledging.
Realizing all of this, I took the spring days one day at a time and eventually, I crossed into my first year of being a Greek. The first semester was not bad for me; it is the second semester I am worried about. The one thing I did have to worry about was trying to make people understand that going Greek is not supposed to take your manhood away or to give people a picture of movies such as "Animal House." I found myself educating freshmen and unaffiliated persons about the advantages of Greek life at Ohio Wesleyan and how it can benefit you throughout your time here and outside of Ohio Wesleyan. I have made some believers out of people and others are still skeptical about how the Greek system works. I want to be the person (or one of the people) who rid stereotypes of the Greek system so that the Greek system can become more efficient in recruitment and its presence on the Ohio Wesleyan campus. 35% of the student body is Greek. This is a far cry compared to the percentage of the student body in the 1970's and 1980's. Incoming freshmen are not exposed enough to the positives. Sometimes, the only times that many people on campus are exposed to Greek life is during parties advertised on Facebook or as ads on campus. Most of these parties have alcohol in them and many students just want to have fun without the alcohol or rude people, i.e. from my experience.
I feel that it doesn't matter if you are international or domestic, Greek life should be presented on equal terms. I represented Greek life as soon as I started my Orientation leader schedule in August; this was my first introduction to the new student body of 2011. Whether I was aware of being the representative, I knew of one thing, I AM OWU. Let's face it, Greek Life is OWU. There are many teachers and administrators on campus that are Greek and are proud of their experiences as Greek men and women. They would not take it back and either would I. Despite the differences that some of the fraternities have with each other, I am not going to discriminate against another fraternity just because of their history or the people who have pledged there. Just like Facebook stated, we are all Greek so whether people at OWU like it or not, we all share a common bond in joining that we all hold dearly to our hearts forever. In conclusion, I am doing all that I can to invite people who have little or no clue about fraternity as well as people who are interesting in joining a fraternity like Phi Delta Theta AND even people who are already in another fraternity on campus to events and on regular days to chill, study, or whatever they want. For me, this is the best and the only way to create awareness of a fraternity on campus.
If anyone wants to comment about their experience in Greek Life or about my blog about Greek Life whether it is my feelings or the Facebook feelings, feel free. I am welcoming any and all comments and constructive criticism.
Greek Life Forever,
Hasani Wheat
Phi Delta Theta
Class of '10
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Financially, I am not the richest person
As a college student, I know that I am not the best person to ask for money. Despite working during the summer and possibly during Winter Break, I know that as soon as the spring semester starts on the 14th of January, I will be using more money to accommodate my needs. This semester, I used money to pay for the essentials but that was about it. I did a lot of fund raising for the causes that I am in including my Spring Break trip to North Carolina for Habitat. In the spring, I think that I will have to use more money. Let me break it down so I can get a personal account of how much it will take to accommodate me for the spring semester.
Books- I will have to purchase a lot of books for the spring semester. I am guessing anywhere between 25 and 30 books. Hopefully, the amount is a lot less. However, as a history major, I generally see between 4 to 6 books a class. These books are usually small books that pertain to a particular section of the course. For example, in my Making of Britain class which covers prehistory in Britain to the reign of William and Anne, I bought a book that talked specifically about the life of Queen Elizabeth. Usually, I have to purchase a major textbook and three to five smaller texts to follow the class. Hopefully, I can purchase all of the books in one sweep that I can get this part of the money for the semester out of the way.
Dues- I am not looking forward to paying dues of any sort. This is one of the many sacrifices I have to make as a member of a fraternity. I wish dues were not so high. Dues are important though for all of the activities I want to do.
Conferences to which I have not paid for- This category is kind of sketchy because I am juggling between two conferences at the same time. One is the NACA conference and the other is the Jubilee conference. I am interested in both and both have their own pros and cons. For the NACA conference, a pro would be that I can see more acts to bring for OWU in addition to attending a free conference. The con for NACA would be that I will be gone for 5-6 days and missing a good portion of my classes. Most of my classes are one day a week seminars in which attendance is a crucial factor to the overall grade and the other classes with the exception of one is two days a week (the two days Tuesday and Thursday I will be missing the classes). Honestly, I don't feel like I want to negotiate with teachers about why I will be missing that much class time. I don't believe the reason will be legitimate enough to explain that I need an extension on a paper. For the Jubilee conference, a pro would be leaving OWU on Friday and returning on Sunday. This way, I don't have to miss any classes (I don't think I will). On the con side, I will need to register and spend another 220 dollars for conference fees and lodging in a nice hotel. I need some time to decide which one will be more beneficial to me in my growth academically and otherwise. Can I truly afford to miss a week of class or can I truly afford to miss more money in my checking account. Only time will tell- hopefully, I will know my decision before the Winter Break ends.
Food and clothes- Even though I will probably bring with me an emergency care basket loaded with Chef Boy-R-Dee products and healthy snacks, I will eventually run out of this. I will need money to buy more food. I can always make food at my fraternity house but sometimes, I want to treat a person on a night out in Delaware or better yet, in Easton or Polaris. I need the additional funds to do so (nice restaurant suggestion anyone). For clothes, I like to style and profile. It is true that I bought a ton of clothes before I went back to OWU for the fall semester; however, I may need some clothes before Spring Break because there are many big events after I come back from Break that I want to be looking fresh for. One season is not enough for my tastes, I need clothes that represent every season. I know that I don't have to have any new clothes and that this is a miscellaneous category but I am just throwing it out there.
My account bill- This is where a good portion of the money will go. I received a reminder in my school mailbox- seven hundred and fifty dollars. I wish my scholarships would be of greater amount- then again, I wish that my grades were a bit higher to accommodate more scholarship dollars. I am still reeling that my Ohio Choice was cut almost in half. I am still filing for scholarships, still looking for that extra boost for financial stability. I know that I will get another reminder of the money that is due for the school before I arrive on campus. I am blessed that I have scholarships to cover half of the bill and that I have the sufficient funds to pay for the remaining portion even if I have to take out a loan or two. I guess it stinks because I am still strapped for cash.
Other miscellaneous things- As always, there will be other things that I need money for. If I want to buy items when I am away from OWU, I will need money. Hopefully, I will have enough sources to get money.
Normally, my dad will pay for half of everything that I have mentioned on the list. For this, I am fortunate. In some households of people that I know, the only person that is paying for these things is the person who is actually going to the college. I have to find ways to pay for college. Last semester, I had an on campus job working for Debra Lamp and Student Involvement. The pay was not bad and I got along with everyone. Currently, I am searching for other options- maybe the Historian will take me if there are any openings remaining after Break. I like a nice change in scenery even if I have to travel to Elliot Hall in the cold and walk up four flights of stairs to get to the Historian office. I need the money to pay for the spring semester just like most OWU students. I am just venting where the issues of financial assistance lie and how each area affects me financially. I just hope that my accrued interest on my Sallie Mae loan was not built up too much... that would be a pain to deal with in the summer when I return to my job at Parker-Hannifin. I figure that I will be alright for the spring semester. If not, I will scrounge up a way to find cash to help myself out temporarily. Money is always on this college student mind.
Looking for sources of financial production,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Books- I will have to purchase a lot of books for the spring semester. I am guessing anywhere between 25 and 30 books. Hopefully, the amount is a lot less. However, as a history major, I generally see between 4 to 6 books a class. These books are usually small books that pertain to a particular section of the course. For example, in my Making of Britain class which covers prehistory in Britain to the reign of William and Anne, I bought a book that talked specifically about the life of Queen Elizabeth. Usually, I have to purchase a major textbook and three to five smaller texts to follow the class. Hopefully, I can purchase all of the books in one sweep that I can get this part of the money for the semester out of the way.
Dues- I am not looking forward to paying dues of any sort. This is one of the many sacrifices I have to make as a member of a fraternity. I wish dues were not so high. Dues are important though for all of the activities I want to do.
Conferences to which I have not paid for- This category is kind of sketchy because I am juggling between two conferences at the same time. One is the NACA conference and the other is the Jubilee conference. I am interested in both and both have their own pros and cons. For the NACA conference, a pro would be that I can see more acts to bring for OWU in addition to attending a free conference. The con for NACA would be that I will be gone for 5-6 days and missing a good portion of my classes. Most of my classes are one day a week seminars in which attendance is a crucial factor to the overall grade and the other classes with the exception of one is two days a week (the two days Tuesday and Thursday I will be missing the classes). Honestly, I don't feel like I want to negotiate with teachers about why I will be missing that much class time. I don't believe the reason will be legitimate enough to explain that I need an extension on a paper. For the Jubilee conference, a pro would be leaving OWU on Friday and returning on Sunday. This way, I don't have to miss any classes (I don't think I will). On the con side, I will need to register and spend another 220 dollars for conference fees and lodging in a nice hotel. I need some time to decide which one will be more beneficial to me in my growth academically and otherwise. Can I truly afford to miss a week of class or can I truly afford to miss more money in my checking account. Only time will tell- hopefully, I will know my decision before the Winter Break ends.
Food and clothes- Even though I will probably bring with me an emergency care basket loaded with Chef Boy-R-Dee products and healthy snacks, I will eventually run out of this. I will need money to buy more food. I can always make food at my fraternity house but sometimes, I want to treat a person on a night out in Delaware or better yet, in Easton or Polaris. I need the additional funds to do so (nice restaurant suggestion anyone). For clothes, I like to style and profile. It is true that I bought a ton of clothes before I went back to OWU for the fall semester; however, I may need some clothes before Spring Break because there are many big events after I come back from Break that I want to be looking fresh for. One season is not enough for my tastes, I need clothes that represent every season. I know that I don't have to have any new clothes and that this is a miscellaneous category but I am just throwing it out there.
My account bill- This is where a good portion of the money will go. I received a reminder in my school mailbox- seven hundred and fifty dollars. I wish my scholarships would be of greater amount- then again, I wish that my grades were a bit higher to accommodate more scholarship dollars. I am still reeling that my Ohio Choice was cut almost in half. I am still filing for scholarships, still looking for that extra boost for financial stability. I know that I will get another reminder of the money that is due for the school before I arrive on campus. I am blessed that I have scholarships to cover half of the bill and that I have the sufficient funds to pay for the remaining portion even if I have to take out a loan or two. I guess it stinks because I am still strapped for cash.
Other miscellaneous things- As always, there will be other things that I need money for. If I want to buy items when I am away from OWU, I will need money. Hopefully, I will have enough sources to get money.
Normally, my dad will pay for half of everything that I have mentioned on the list. For this, I am fortunate. In some households of people that I know, the only person that is paying for these things is the person who is actually going to the college. I have to find ways to pay for college. Last semester, I had an on campus job working for Debra Lamp and Student Involvement. The pay was not bad and I got along with everyone. Currently, I am searching for other options- maybe the Historian will take me if there are any openings remaining after Break. I like a nice change in scenery even if I have to travel to Elliot Hall in the cold and walk up four flights of stairs to get to the Historian office. I need the money to pay for the spring semester just like most OWU students. I am just venting where the issues of financial assistance lie and how each area affects me financially. I just hope that my accrued interest on my Sallie Mae loan was not built up too much... that would be a pain to deal with in the summer when I return to my job at Parker-Hannifin. I figure that I will be alright for the spring semester. If not, I will scrounge up a way to find cash to help myself out temporarily. Money is always on this college student mind.
Looking for sources of financial production,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Review of all the activities and organizations I have done for fall semester 2007
I would just like to reflect back on the things that I have done for this semester, the main goals that was accomplished, and my future goals with these organizations including some of the events for next semester.
Choosing and Learning Environments with Alcohol Respect (CLEAR)- I felt that the semester for CLEAR was a big success. I was not able to make all of the noon meetings due to my involvement in WCSA but whenever I did go, the meetings were always fun and business. I had a lot of fun going to the Indians game, the corn field during the week of Halloween, and to King's Island for FrightFest. Along the way, I have met new people in which I never probably would have openly interacted and have made new friends that I can say Hi to whenever I am walking down the JayWalk or wherever. I highly anticipate the events that CLEAR will be throwing for the spring semester including white-water rafting, rock climbing, broomball, and maybe even a Cavs game. There is no limit to how much fun that will take place next semester. I had that fun in my life!
Habitat for Humanity- I went to a couple of meetings and there were not as many people as I thought it would be as indicated in the beginning of the semester. I realized that there were a lot of houses that were in need of repair in Delaware and I constantly thought about being the person to build these houses for people. I did a couple of pizza deliveries to raise money for our chapter and I cannot wait to go build more houses in the spring. The members of Habitat are cool and laid back (No pressure whatsoever) and ironically, I have been chosen to go to North Carolina for a build week for Spring Break. I already have my money in so I am willing and ready to rock with my hammer and drill.
Circle K- Honestly, I did not expect to get as heavily involved in Circle K as I did this semester. I expected to do a community service project here and there and then get other people outside of Circle K. This was not the case. I went to service projects around Delaware such as the Blue Limestone Park clean-up as well as regional projects such as the District Service Project where I went back to Cleveland and helped scrape, prime, and paint an individual's house. After that particular project, I was hooked. I ended up paying my dues (which were not that much) and participating in more Circle K projects. I would say the highlight of my time in Circle K thus far is going to the Membership Awareness Conference where I learned more about why I was interested in Circle K in the first place. I learned a lot and met people from other schools. I was interested to seeing where I will land after the end of the academic year. The huge event that I will be preparing for is the District Convention held at the University of Akron. THIS could be a lot of fun. The horizons are endless for development as well.
Choral Arts Society- All of the preparation for Bach and Mozart seemed to be endless. I do not know what it was this semester but the time I spent on the material in class was exceedingly long. I remember thinking "When is it going to end?" When the time came, the concert came and went without a hitch. The concert was pretty quick- about an hour. The entire choir had five songs, the men's ensemble had three songs, and the women's ensemble had six songs. This semester is over and to be honest, I am glad the song selection is out of the way. Now I can prepare for the BIG concert, Mozart's Requiem. Kenichiro Matsuda will be directing us. I am remembering the BIG concert last year under the direction of Jaime Morales-Matos; that was a night to remember. I am so excited. Now I have to register for Choral Arts Society again.
Wesleyan Council for Student Affairs (WCSA)- Overall, this was a productive year. To your average student, there was nothing much going on in WCSA. However, there was lots of activity. The mid-semester check was a good thing for me because I saw a different side to the people who are on the Executive Cabinet. We discussed where we wanted WCSA to go for the next semester and how to implement this. WCSA had input on the Presidential Search Committee and the sub-committees such as Residential Life, Budget, and Campus Relations were active. There should be town hall meetings in the near future (I know because of my role as a member of the Res-Life sub-committee). There will be changes in the roster. Two of the current members are leaving for the spring semester to pursue study abroad or locally interests and one member, Robert Shelala, who had worked with me on the President's Commission for Racial and Cultural Diversity, will be graduating this semester. This will be missed but their opinions not forgotten. Ultimately, I felt that once elections come up in March, the course of WCSA will again be altered to fit the next President. Whatever this year's WCSA has to do, we have to do it quickly and in an efficient manner. One thing that will happen is the annual Trustee Dinner, held on January 25, 2008. I am excited to meet more of the alumni that constantly donate to the school. I am gradually meeting the alumni and hearing their opinions out. All I have to say is "Let's finish this academic year out strong!"
Black Men of the Future (BMF)- Well, what can I say. This is a home organization
where I can count on my fellow brothas (not to confuse this with my fellow fraternity brothers). We got out to a slow start but there are many projects and pizza deliveries coming in the spring semester to hopefully make up this semester. We have eight of them to bring us closer to the goal of having a retreat. Personally, I want and need that retreat, not just for me, but for the guys that are freshmen so we can bond and grow closer. This is important to me because the older classes have to mentor strong and emerging Black men on campus. This concept has been pounded into my head by men that have graduated and are pursuing their dreams. I did like that we treated to the Black women on campus with the Best Wishes on Finals and Happy Holidays Card. I thought that was classy. There will be elections for a new Executive cabinet so I hope that the new Executive cabinet will be able to rise to the occasion and put a face to our organization.
Student Union on Black Awareness (SUBA)- There is a new president and her name is Tiffany Nicole Ware. I have seen her in other roles on campus as a dominant force. I feel that she will get the job done and will be a force for all of the Black population on campus. Right now, we need it. In the beginning of the semester, I was not able to go to SUBA meetings because I had to attend my fraternity meetings; however, the day was changed for that and now I have the time to attend SUBA meetings, which I really wanted to go to. Many of the members in Cabinet are of the freshmen class, just like last year. I really hope that SUBA can start the spring semester running with its involvement in the Martin Luther King Jr. festivities that the President's Commission for Racial and Cultural Diversity has put on. Then, the events for Black History Month should commence soon after. I see the light shining now we as a Black Student Union must set the Ohio Wesleyan campus on FIRE with that light. Ya dig!
I am in other organizations such as the Student Homecoming Organization and Orientation but I have already spoken at length about my involvement in these. If any prospective students or parents are looking at this, I would look at my experiences to see if there is a connection between what you are looking for in a school and organizations within that school. I did this and I am now suggesting the same thing. This makes a world of difference in a college search. These organizations have made an impact on me and reflecting on these experiences has helped to realize that I belong in each one of them.
Glad to be reflecting about my organizations,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Choosing and Learning Environments with Alcohol Respect (CLEAR)- I felt that the semester for CLEAR was a big success. I was not able to make all of the noon meetings due to my involvement in WCSA but whenever I did go, the meetings were always fun and business. I had a lot of fun going to the Indians game, the corn field during the week of Halloween, and to King's Island for FrightFest. Along the way, I have met new people in which I never probably would have openly interacted and have made new friends that I can say Hi to whenever I am walking down the JayWalk or wherever. I highly anticipate the events that CLEAR will be throwing for the spring semester including white-water rafting, rock climbing, broomball, and maybe even a Cavs game. There is no limit to how much fun that will take place next semester. I had that fun in my life!
Habitat for Humanity- I went to a couple of meetings and there were not as many people as I thought it would be as indicated in the beginning of the semester. I realized that there were a lot of houses that were in need of repair in Delaware and I constantly thought about being the person to build these houses for people. I did a couple of pizza deliveries to raise money for our chapter and I cannot wait to go build more houses in the spring. The members of Habitat are cool and laid back (No pressure whatsoever) and ironically, I have been chosen to go to North Carolina for a build week for Spring Break. I already have my money in so I am willing and ready to rock with my hammer and drill.
Circle K- Honestly, I did not expect to get as heavily involved in Circle K as I did this semester. I expected to do a community service project here and there and then get other people outside of Circle K. This was not the case. I went to service projects around Delaware such as the Blue Limestone Park clean-up as well as regional projects such as the District Service Project where I went back to Cleveland and helped scrape, prime, and paint an individual's house. After that particular project, I was hooked. I ended up paying my dues (which were not that much) and participating in more Circle K projects. I would say the highlight of my time in Circle K thus far is going to the Membership Awareness Conference where I learned more about why I was interested in Circle K in the first place. I learned a lot and met people from other schools. I was interested to seeing where I will land after the end of the academic year. The huge event that I will be preparing for is the District Convention held at the University of Akron. THIS could be a lot of fun. The horizons are endless for development as well.
Choral Arts Society- All of the preparation for Bach and Mozart seemed to be endless. I do not know what it was this semester but the time I spent on the material in class was exceedingly long. I remember thinking "When is it going to end?" When the time came, the concert came and went without a hitch. The concert was pretty quick- about an hour. The entire choir had five songs, the men's ensemble had three songs, and the women's ensemble had six songs. This semester is over and to be honest, I am glad the song selection is out of the way. Now I can prepare for the BIG concert, Mozart's Requiem. Kenichiro Matsuda will be directing us. I am remembering the BIG concert last year under the direction of Jaime Morales-Matos; that was a night to remember. I am so excited. Now I have to register for Choral Arts Society again.
Wesleyan Council for Student Affairs (WCSA)- Overall, this was a productive year. To your average student, there was nothing much going on in WCSA. However, there was lots of activity. The mid-semester check was a good thing for me because I saw a different side to the people who are on the Executive Cabinet. We discussed where we wanted WCSA to go for the next semester and how to implement this. WCSA had input on the Presidential Search Committee and the sub-committees such as Residential Life, Budget, and Campus Relations were active. There should be town hall meetings in the near future (I know because of my role as a member of the Res-Life sub-committee). There will be changes in the roster. Two of the current members are leaving for the spring semester to pursue study abroad or locally interests and one member, Robert Shelala, who had worked with me on the President's Commission for Racial and Cultural Diversity, will be graduating this semester. This will be missed but their opinions not forgotten. Ultimately, I felt that once elections come up in March, the course of WCSA will again be altered to fit the next President. Whatever this year's WCSA has to do, we have to do it quickly and in an efficient manner. One thing that will happen is the annual Trustee Dinner, held on January 25, 2008. I am excited to meet more of the alumni that constantly donate to the school. I am gradually meeting the alumni and hearing their opinions out. All I have to say is "Let's finish this academic year out strong!"
Black Men of the Future (BMF)- Well, what can I say. This is a home organization
where I can count on my fellow brothas (not to confuse this with my fellow fraternity brothers). We got out to a slow start but there are many projects and pizza deliveries coming in the spring semester to hopefully make up this semester. We have eight of them to bring us closer to the goal of having a retreat. Personally, I want and need that retreat, not just for me, but for the guys that are freshmen so we can bond and grow closer. This is important to me because the older classes have to mentor strong and emerging Black men on campus. This concept has been pounded into my head by men that have graduated and are pursuing their dreams. I did like that we treated to the Black women on campus with the Best Wishes on Finals and Happy Holidays Card. I thought that was classy. There will be elections for a new Executive cabinet so I hope that the new Executive cabinet will be able to rise to the occasion and put a face to our organization.
Student Union on Black Awareness (SUBA)- There is a new president and her name is Tiffany Nicole Ware. I have seen her in other roles on campus as a dominant force. I feel that she will get the job done and will be a force for all of the Black population on campus. Right now, we need it. In the beginning of the semester, I was not able to go to SUBA meetings because I had to attend my fraternity meetings; however, the day was changed for that and now I have the time to attend SUBA meetings, which I really wanted to go to. Many of the members in Cabinet are of the freshmen class, just like last year. I really hope that SUBA can start the spring semester running with its involvement in the Martin Luther King Jr. festivities that the President's Commission for Racial and Cultural Diversity has put on. Then, the events for Black History Month should commence soon after. I see the light shining now we as a Black Student Union must set the Ohio Wesleyan campus on FIRE with that light. Ya dig!
I am in other organizations such as the Student Homecoming Organization and Orientation but I have already spoken at length about my involvement in these. If any prospective students or parents are looking at this, I would look at my experiences to see if there is a connection between what you are looking for in a school and organizations within that school. I did this and I am now suggesting the same thing. This makes a world of difference in a college search. These organizations have made an impact on me and reflecting on these experiences has helped to realize that I belong in each one of them.
Glad to be reflecting about my organizations,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Friday, December 7, 2007
I have about two weeks until break begins..... I am so stoked!
Finally, I have two weeks until the end of this semester. I am so happy to be finished with this semester. This semester was very grueling for me and I think that next semester will be a better fit for me in terms of classes and experiences. I have become accustomed to not particularly liking the first semester, just because there is not as much flexibility as there is in the second part of the academic year. In the second semester, there are a lot more opportunities for me to leave the campus and to pursue the conferences and all of the big things that the spring has to offer: Springfest, Formals, Trustee Dinner, and other important events. My courses for the next semester are also a reason I have to yell about (in a good way). My courses are flexible and all of them are in topics that are of interest.
I think I am saying to myself "there is light at the end of the tunnel."
http://profile.ak.facebook.com/profile5/685/89/n24103308_2237.jpg
http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sctm/v173/63/4/672536063/n672536063_485629_8701.jpg
One of the things that I was enjoying was the always pleasurable President's Ball. Sponsored by WCSA, this year's President's Ball was awesome. I went to help set-up early for the annual event and enjoyed two hours of the really fancy Cocktail Party. Being one of the only people at the event that is not 21, I opted to play it safe (that was a good thing because I had ticket and door duty from 11:45-1:00 a.m.). I decided to chill with some of the seniors such as
Instead of being a loner like my time as a freshman on WCSA last year, this year, I enjoyed the company of friends and my fraternity brothers. Having everyone around me really made the night one never to forget (at least while I am at OWU). Even the subtle things became important- you know, all of the interactions with women, discussions about the future, etc. I mingled with the big heads on campus- from proven and emerging student leaders to Dr. Robbins and Dr. Omahan, our Interim President and Interim Dean of Students, respectfully. I was comfortable with portraying who I was to everyone at the cocktail party. I was me and that was great!
Around 9:30 p.m., the emergence of the rest of the OWU campus showed up to make its presence felt at the President's Ball. The room that was once empty was now full of new faces that were not seniors or faculty. I was already in the zone with the music blaring in the background. Around 10:00 p.m., all of the elements that made the cocktail party; the wine and beer, the heavy hors d'oeuvres, and the live jazz band with the quick emergence of the Swing Dancers, were being replaced with a DJ (courtesy of fellow Phi Delta Theta member Mr. Ted Thode) and the abundance of freshmen experiencing the joys of the President's Ball for the first time. The experience after the cocktail party seemed to be better this year than last year, mainly because last year as soon as the cocktail party ended, I worked ticket sales and the door. I left soon after because I was already tired. This year, I was out on the dance floor and enjoying myself early. Most of the faculty and the seniors were gone by 10:00 p.m. and all of them are virtually gone by 11:00 p.m. The lower classes started to dance to the sounds of Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Soulja Boy, and Nelly (yeah, this is an eclectic mix, indeed). Compared to the beginning of the night, the atmosphere was electrified and full of energy. There were a lot of seeing people enjoy life as many people got into bid crowds to watch people do whatever they do to get that reaction. I know this sentence is a bit confusing but if you can interpret the actual meaning of what I am trying to say about the energy on the dance floor, and then you can understand the craziness that the President's Ball became.
The day calmed down for me as I went to my seat near the door to sell tickets. People were pouring into the dance area around 12:15-12:30. Opera singers came after their performance earlier in the day, Thetas showed up for more partying, and more freshmen than you can imagine continue to drag all of their friends along. I was not anticipating the amount of money people gave to come to this annual event. I was ecstatic with the final results of happy people using Facebook to portray their experience at President's Ball. Hopefully, WCSA can do it again next year. I just wish I had my camera like last year; oh well, check out www.mypictures.com or if you are an OWU student, check out Facebook for more photos. I have posted two picture links near the top of this blog. Check those out, too!
It seems like just a minute ago that I was a freshman getting my first feel for this blog. A year later, I am nearing my 50th blog and I am a year older. I am so happy to be writing to you because there is so much I can document as a sophomore. I have so much access now to anything that it is not even funny. Next semester, I know that I will probably document a lot more because I am planning big things for myself and for all of my organizations. So for now, all I am saying is stay tuned, it is going to be an awesome ride through spring semester- sophomore year. I have to go to work now at Student Involvement and plan out my night: Dinner on the town, One-Acts, and the amazing phenomenon known as the Bhangra Party.
Enlightenment is the key to continued opportunity,
Hasani Wheat
Class of '10
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
