We all dread them, yet we have to face them.  You got it, FINALS!  For some reason, this years schedule for finals is the most intense I’ve ever had in a long time. 

Starting early on the study process is a wise choice; however, sometimes that option isn’t always available.  Especially if you’re holding 18 credit hours like myself, and trying to just get through the week. 

I do have some words of wisdom about studying:

1. Figure out the best study method for yourself.  Personally, I study better alone, rather then a group, as I will find myself talking more then getting something done.  I also like to make note cards if I know there are a lot of terms that I need to memorize.

2. Get your sleep.  Seems obvious, but studies show that if you don’t get between 7-9 hours of sleep per night, your brain/mind isn’t able to comprehend, let alone retain and recall the information you studied.

3. Exercise- It really gives your mind a boost, and makes you look and feel better too!

4. Study in spurts.  Don’t just cram the night before and expect to do excellent.  I have had to do that before, but let me tell you, it was not worth the stress and headache. By studying at various times through each day, your mind will retain the information better.

I truly could go on about the tips, yet I believe each individual needs to evaluate their own schedule and time, and figure out the best method for going about the finals.  It may seem overwhelming and stressful at first.  However, I always feel a lot more comfortable and relaxed on exam day when I know I did everything in my power to prepare for it. 

Hope these tips help and don’t forget to pray! (the most important part J)

As the semester’s wrapping up, I’m diligently planning for next semester’s schedule and lifestyle.  Though I am a senior, I will not be graduating until December 2008, because of student teaching in the fall, however I will be living at home rather than a dorm room.

Therefore, I’m here to talk to you about the pros and cons I’ve experienced with dorm life.

First the pros of dorming:

-convenience of food, computer labs, exercise equipment, Learning Center assistance, and getting to classes within 2 minutes before it starts.

-meeting/getting to know staff, faculty and other students

-opportunity for campus involvement with various groups/clubs

-walks around the Motherhouse for exercise in the fall and spring

Cons of dorming:

-community showers and bathroom (except for Seton Center and some single rooms)

-students being loud and obnoxious at 12:00 a.m.at night, when I’m trying to sleep

-expensive (the cost of dorming)

-the food could be better

You see, there are both pros and cons to either decision made.  Therefore, it’s important to understand ahead of time, why you may want to dorm.  For me, it was the convenience of everything, and not having to drive back and forth from my home, which is 45 minutes away.  It was expensive for me to dorm, however I didn’t want to put all the miles on my car and my mom didn’t want me driving back and forth during the second semester when the roads could be bad due to snow or ice. 

I hope this breakdown helps a bit, as it really depends upon each individual’s circumstance.

Sometimes, all it feels like I’m doing in college is reading. (and I’m an art major!)

 As a college student, its important to stay caught up in your readings for class.  I’m taking a U.S. History course this semester, and for every class, a reading assignment is required.  Though not mandatory, but it truly helps one understand the material to successfully pass all quizzes, essays and tests.  

In the beginning of the semester, I was doing so well, keeping up with each assignment and reading the chapter the day before class, that way I would know the discussion for the day.  However, as the semester got busier, and my thesis deadline was quickly approaching, I began to skip some of those readings to work on thesis, and my quiz grades were affected. 

It stinks because I try so hard to stay caught up and ahead of the game in my studies and sometimes you have to let some things slide, so other things can get done.  Does this mean you give up on your course work?  Absolutely not!  What I’m saying is, do the work that is first priority and give it your all, then work on the rest.  In my case, that would be thesis.  In the beginning of the semester, I put more time into my U.S. History course work then my Senior Thesis.  Yet, when I did begin working like crazy on thesis, I wasn’t able to dedicate the time that I originally spent studying and reading for History.  Therefore, trying to be a perfectionist in all my course work was only making me a stressed-out mess.  So, instead I focused on getting the things done which were first priority, and then work on everything else.  Sometimes I didn’t get the grade that I knew I could’ve gotten, but as long as I tried my hardest and gave it my all, then I was content.(Though that was not easy to accept at first.) 

Therefore, my goal as a college student is to balance out my study and course work time, trying not to let one class dominate my schedule.

Yesterday was the opening reception for our Senior Thesis I art/design students from 6-9p.m. in the San Giuseppe Art Gallery.  It was a very exciting time for the students as their artwork represents a culmination of their 4 years experience at the Mount.  It was a huge turn out, as family, friends and professors were there to support each of the students’ accomplishments.  Some of the work that is on display right now is graphic design, ceramics, fabric design, lettering, printmaking and drawing/mixed media.  My advice, if you’re reading over these blogs trying to get a feel of what the art/design program is like at the Mount, stop by the gallery and check out the Senior Theses.  Their work is a great representation of the variety of majors offered by the art department.  However, there is more to come in about 3 weeks, as the Senior Thesis II opening reception will be held April 25 from 6-9p.m.  This show includes interior design, photography, fabric design, painting, drawing and lettering. I would definitely recommend going, as this is the only time when all the art students are there at the same time to talk about their work.  Plus, I will also be there, as I will be showcasing my thesis in lettered art!  As a student, this time is very rewarding as this work represents all that we have learned from a specific concentration over the past four years and what a great way to end my college experience!  The hard work, sleepless nights and labor is absolutely exhausting, but once you see the work up on the wall, you realize that all that effort was worth it!  I truly hope that the next reception will have just as well or even better turn out then the first thesis show. Take care everyone and I'll be back soon with another blog posting...~Kristen

This year I have the opportunity of co-oping as an art gallery assistant for the Art and Design Department at the Mount.  In the past, my friends have taken on this role, so when the time came last summer and I was asked if I would be interested in  becoming an art gallery assistant, I said "absolutely!"   I don't know everything about the co-op experience, but what I do know is that once you become a junior/senior (even possibly a sophomore) you can participate in the co-op experience. 

At the Mount, the co-op department offers on and off site jobs.  I know alot of individuals right now who are co-oping at Children's Hospital and Proctor and Gamble, which down the road could very well help them get a job.  However, the position I hold works out wonderfully as I'm learning so much about gallery installation and procedure.  Since I will be an art educator within the next year, having the knowledge/skill of setting up exhibitions and understanding how to do press releases will all be benefical to my field of study. 

Another thing that I want to state is the flexiblity of credit hours that can be applied to your co-op experience.  Last semester I took my co-op for 1 credit hour and now this semester I'm taking it for 2 credit hours.   There really are so many benefits to co-oping, no matter what your major may be.  If you can, I would highly recommend it, as it will make an individual I better candidate for landing their desired job because of the skills/knowledge they've acquired through the co-op experience.

If you want to know more information about the Mounts Cooperative Education Program, check it out at: http://inside.msj.edu/academics/coop/

As I'm just getting ready to post my blog this morning, SURPRISE! our electricity goes out!  I couldn't believe it, there was no storm, rain or snow, yet it happened and I lost everything that I had just written to be posted.  That is why everyone should back up their files no matter what!  Whether it's a paper, project or pictures, backing up files will prevent you the worry and hassle of redoing the whole thing over again, including writing a blog.  This goes for college students especially.  I try my best to back up important files on CD's, flash drives, and my desktop.  That way I have 3 sources where my information can be found.  So, lesson to be learned that I always seem to overlook, is always back up your files!

Anyway, yes this week is Spring Break and I can't believe it's almost over.  I must say, the only thing I've really done is work like crazy on my Senior Thesis, which I still have so much more to complete.  But, thankfully, I'm in the second thesis show April 25 and not the April 4th exhibition. Another thing I'm excited about is Easter Sunday tomorrow!  Every Easter we always go to church then come home to celebrate with the family.  The meal is delicious and the time spent relaxing is such a joy.  But, the most important part of Easter for me is remembering the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the sacrafice he made for us all.  Though this is a hectic time of year, it's also special as I'm able to spend time with the people I love during this Easter holiday.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter!

HE IS RISEN! ~Kristen

Whistling may be OK while your painting your kitchen or knitting a blanket, but whistling while your trying to throw a bowl on a potters wheel, I WOULDN'T RECOMMEND IT! 

This semester I'm taking ART 341, Ceramics Workshop.  As the semester is already halfway complete, I've created some beautiful little bowls and containers thus far.  Now, your probably thinking, what's the big deal, anybody can make a clay bowl or container??? Yet, the way we make bowls and containers isn't through hand-building, but rather by wheel throwing. (creating works of art on a potters wheel)  This is not an easy task!  It took me literally ONE MONTH to catch onto the process and begin creating symmetrical bowls/containers.  Concentration and focus are key.  I had an incident where I was talking with one of my friends in class while bringing up the wall on my mug, when all of a sudden I punctured a hole right through the side of it.  I was so mad, because I worked so hard in building it that far.  Yet, I deserved it because I shouldn't have been talking and trying to create a mug at the same time.

 Also, if your considering taking this class as an easy filler into your course schedule, I'm here to let you know it take ALOT of commitment and dedication. (especially if you've never thrown on the wheel before) During that first month, I would come to the studio at least 6-7 hours a week outside of class time to practice on the wheel.  Furthermore, Pam Korte, professor of the course, is an excellent role model to her students as she demonstrates a new technique to throwing each class period.  The course requirement entails creating 25 pieces by the end of the semester.  This includes some of the following: 2 matching mugs, 1 pouring pitcher, 1 vase, 1 teapot, 4 bowls etc... I've learned so much about wheel throwing so far.  As an art education major, I know that I'll be applying the skills/knowledge I'm learning from Prof. Korte and passing those onto my students someday.

So, if your considering going to the Mount and majoring in art or design, stop by for a campus tour and ask to see the new art building.  While your there, you'll have the opportunity to check out the new ceramic studio space and other great features the department has to offer.

 Hope you get a chance to make it to the Mount soon!

~Kristen

I can't believe the amount of snow that came through the Tri-state area this past weekend!  It was extremely wonderful having that extra day off and staying home.  However, at the same time disappointing as things were delayed that I wish I could've just gotten over with.  For instance, I had an interview at 2:15p.m. Saturday March 8 for a scholarship contest, yet it was cancelled due to the snow.  Now, it's rescheduled for this weekend, and I can't make it because I'm already registered to take the PRAXIS 2 Exam.  Besides the delay and rescheduling, the snow really was an excellent reminder for me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of God's creation.  But before relaxing, what about the college student who chooses to stay in the dorms while it's snowing and school is closed?

Honestly, there isn't much to do.  That's why I opt to head home.  I only live 40 minutes away, so the drive isn't too bad.  Yet, I know there are some students who don't have that option.  I've stayed in the dorms once while it snowed and it was horrible.  You would think it would've been a very productive time in completing my school work, not a chance.  I was constantly being interrupted by other students in their dorm rooms who were blaring their music and running through the hallways goofing off because (I guess) they had nothing better to do! So,that was enough immaturity for me.  Ever since then, if possible, I always go home if I know the college is closing.

My advice, if your one of those students who is deciding about which college to attend, consider whether or not your a homebody, dependent upon being with your family.  If so, and you live close to the college, think about commuting rather then dorming.  It's not only cheaper, but you get to see your family more often.  The only reason I dorm is because I don't want to drive 40 minutes everyday to school.  However, when bad weather arrives, I'm thankful I live close to see my family and get some home-cooked meals.  Living farther away really does limit you from those opportunities.  So, it's something to consider!

Keep warm and I'll be back soon for another blog posting...Kristen

F.Y.I.

(This blog is geared to education students or students interested in becoming teachers!)

So it seems that taking tests are a never ending chore for college students.  Not only do we take tests for course examinations but in order to get licensure to teach, we must pass all of the PRAXIS Series tests.  For those of you who are asking, “What are the PRAXIS Series tests?”  They’re 3 assessments that must be taken (and passed) in order to receive state-licensure.  PRAXIS 1 measures your basic academic skills such as reading, writing and math. PRAXIS 2 measures general and subject-specific knowledge and teaching skills. This test is geared more toward your major.  Lastly, PRAXIS 3 is an in class evaluation (once you get your first teaching job) where a PRAXIS 3 assessor will evaluate your teaching methodologies in the classroom. As a student going through this process right now, I thought it would be beneficial to share with you some tips on how I study/studied and when you should take the tests. 

 As I stated before, taking the PRAXIS Series is an obligation in order to get state-licensure.   During my freshmen year in college I never understood the importance of studying for the PRAXIS 1. However, it wasn’t until I received my scores back, failing both the Math and Reading portion by one point, I understood the importance of studying.  The reason I’m telling about my failures is to motivate others to use their time and money wisely and prepare before hand, rather then “winging” it.  I didn’t study, because I didn’t know what to study, nor did I know what to expect on the test.  However, after I failed, that motivated me to find study guides/testing materials in order to pass them the second time around.

 Now, don’t get me wrong, some students can pass it without studying, however I wouldn’t advise it.  Spending 3-4 weeks in advance for these tests are worth it.  That way, you’re not stressed out or anxious on the test day.

My recommendation, before buying the study guide book at a bookstore is to look around at Half Price Books, or libraries to see if they have the version you need to study from.  As a college student, I’m always trying to find bargains, and the library is a great place to start.  Also, don’t overlook those practice tests in the study guide books.  Take them all, and take them in an environment that is similar to the environment of the testing center. 

 Also, another resource that’s available at my school in the Mount’s Learning Center is 3 variations of the PRAXIS 1 study guides.  Depending on what college you attend/will attend, I’m sure some where on campus resources will be available to assist you.  Like I said earlier, the math portion of the test I didn’t study for first time around, however I took it again and my score increased by 7 points!  The results were drastic.  Right now I’m preparing for the PRAXIS 2 exams.  I will be taking the PLT (Principles of Learning and Teaching) test on March 15, then my art content test in June.  By spreading the tests out, rather then taking them all at once, I’m better able to stay focused on one test at a time.  Furthermore, I must also advice you that these tests aren’t cheap.  My PRAXIS 2 exam was $90 and the registration fee was $50.  So, studying really is worth it!   

Lastly, before I go, are some tips to help you during this time:

-register early!  Go online to www.ets.org  to see the various testing locations in your state and figure out ahead of time which tests you need to take.

- make note cards (especially for PRAXIS 2), a lot of the information is memorization of educational theorists and psychological terms related to the development of a child.  Make sure you know them all.

-Check with your college education department to figure out what is the passing scores for PRAXIS 1(as they vary per college).

-Give yourself at least 3 weeks to study prior to the test date. 

-If you don’t know how to get to your testing location, do a test run the weekend before, that way on the test date your not getting lost, thus missing your time!

 Obviously, the list could go on, but I think you get the point!  The PRAXIS series is a demanding process, yet is imperative to complete before student teaching (PRAXIS 1, 2)

Check with your school for more information and my advice for all of the tests is to do your research ahead of time by studying and you’ll be just fine!

Until next time….Kristen