Well now, we are heading into the final two weeks of school and it is hard to believe that I have been blessed with only one exam this semester. Because of my good fortune, I will be going to Toronto to visit Simon and Justine (and family) some time in early December. I have also taken up crazy Common Ground shifts where I make lattes and sandwiches galore- it should be a good time.
Speaking of the coffee house, I have discovered that I am a trained Barista! Isn't that exciting? All it means is that I can work the expresso machine, mind you, technology these days can have a mind of its own, so it is no easy feat at times. On a side note, I find specialty coffees an incredibly luxurious item. It is not only unnecessary in terms of nutrition, but it is also very over-priced. I think I will cut down on my mocha consumption...but 1/2 coffee and 1/2 hot chocolate do make one killer drink.
I also had another successful event with the Queen's Asian Cooking Club just this past weekend! It was an indian-Mekong luncheon and it was incredible because our executive just picked up two indian fellows who can cook very well. Needless to say, it went well and everyone left with bellies full, apetites satiated.
My volleyball team made it to the finals! I really like volleyball, and even though we have won most of our games by default (i.e. the other teams doesn't show up...) it still feels good to say that we are currently ranked first out of (*ehem*)4 teams. We also had a touch football tournament last weekend. My floor came in 4th! I was so impressed with some of the players! I wish I was more sporty...
Lastly, I have to choose my courses for next semester. This is much more difficult than I had anticipated because I am torn between how much time I wish I have, and how much time I actually have. I must admit that this semester has not been very academic- and though I would like next semester to be more challenging in the classroom, because of Don and my honours project, I wonder if I will be able to balance everything. Only time will tell I suppose!
On a happier note- The Holiday season is upon us! I can not wait to be surrounded by family once more.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Down time
I find that people now-a-days don't give themselves enough down time. By down time, I mean just a couple hours to stare at a beautiful sunset, children playing merrily on a swingset or in my case, a blank wall, pondering all that is. I wish I had more down time. I tried to get it today as I waited for yet another resident in the emergency room. He sprained his ankle playing football. Unfortunately, my attempts at figuring things out in a high-stress environment didn't work very well. I could have predicted that. I just need time to sort out my priorities and to assess whether or not I am happy with where I am. I also need the time to figure out what I want to do in the near future and to put that in context with what I want to do in the long-term. Needless to say, it is quite overwhelming.
What do you think about in your down time?
What do you think about in your down time?
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Reflections of a Don
So it is now November. I can't believe that there is only one more month of school before exams. I only have one exam on the 9th of December but because I am a Don, I must stay here until the 22nd. sigh...ah well- it will be worth it I think, because I will have lots of time work on my honours project and to just relax.
So, I am just sitting at my desk writing a lab, thinking about where I am in my life and who I am. I have come to the realization that I think I liked myself better two years ago, because I knew who my friends were and though I longed to be popular, I knew it just wasn't who I was. Today, I find that I must act confident and social because of my Don position. I must also blend into the Western social mould to be effective at communicating and mixing socially with my floor and fellow Dons. This makes me feel slightly uncomfortable because now, I find that so much more of me is made known, made public. Before, I took quiet pride in my accomplishments, and I quietly reflected on my weaknesses. Today, it is almost an immediate reaction that I talk my mouth off to a fellow don or co-worker, gossiping and being shallow...have I changed? I am constantly being judged as a Don, and I am constantly required to open up to those around me in order to connect with them and in order to sympathize. This is actually far more exhausting than I thought.
Furthermore, I find that though I love my floor- I am incredibly insecure about it. I constantly fear that I will wake up one day and they will not respect me. Recently, other dons have commented on how my floor pushes my limits because I let them. Am I too soft? But if I get tougher-will they like me? Should I care? It is unfortunate that being a Don consumes so much of my life and thought. I wonder if my floor realizes this. I wonder if I am taking this job too seriously. I wonder if I am too attached. I wonder if I am too involved...
I wonder too much.
So, I am just sitting at my desk writing a lab, thinking about where I am in my life and who I am. I have come to the realization that I think I liked myself better two years ago, because I knew who my friends were and though I longed to be popular, I knew it just wasn't who I was. Today, I find that I must act confident and social because of my Don position. I must also blend into the Western social mould to be effective at communicating and mixing socially with my floor and fellow Dons. This makes me feel slightly uncomfortable because now, I find that so much more of me is made known, made public. Before, I took quiet pride in my accomplishments, and I quietly reflected on my weaknesses. Today, it is almost an immediate reaction that I talk my mouth off to a fellow don or co-worker, gossiping and being shallow...have I changed? I am constantly being judged as a Don, and I am constantly required to open up to those around me in order to connect with them and in order to sympathize. This is actually far more exhausting than I thought.
Furthermore, I find that though I love my floor- I am incredibly insecure about it. I constantly fear that I will wake up one day and they will not respect me. Recently, other dons have commented on how my floor pushes my limits because I let them. Am I too soft? But if I get tougher-will they like me? Should I care? It is unfortunate that being a Don consumes so much of my life and thought. I wonder if my floor realizes this. I wonder if I am taking this job too seriously. I wonder if I am too attached. I wonder if I am too involved...
I wonder too much.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Sarah- the neurosurgeon...?
Hey everybody!
So I extracted my first hamster brain today. I am not sure whether or not this is a good thing, it was pretty gross and I am not really looking forward to doing it again. There is a lot of blood and bone crunching. And let's not forget the skinning. Anyway, it was an unpleasant procedure, but someone has to do it! Plus, my supervisor said that I did it really well:)
I am also practicing perfusion on my animals. This means piercing the heart with a needle and flushing out the animal with a fixative. It is also an incredibly tough process. Who knew their hearts would be SO small and slippery? However, I do like this part of the experiment because we get to open up the hamsters. Their hearts are still beating too. It is pretty cool. Anyway, things are getting underway. Still loving residence and still loving the coffee house:)
So I extracted my first hamster brain today. I am not sure whether or not this is a good thing, it was pretty gross and I am not really looking forward to doing it again. There is a lot of blood and bone crunching. And let's not forget the skinning. Anyway, it was an unpleasant procedure, but someone has to do it! Plus, my supervisor said that I did it really well:)
I am also practicing perfusion on my animals. This means piercing the heart with a needle and flushing out the animal with a fixative. It is also an incredibly tough process. Who knew their hearts would be SO small and slippery? However, I do like this part of the experiment because we get to open up the hamsters. Their hearts are still beating too. It is pretty cool. Anyway, things are getting underway. Still loving residence and still loving the coffee house:)
Friday, October 14, 2005
Still working off the turkey...
It has almost been a month since I last blogged. I hope some people are still reading this...
So what is new and exciting in the life of Sarah Chan?
Well, I love being a Don. My floor was beginning to get out of hand, but I gave them a serious talk and so far, they have been very responsive and a lot more responsible (but I say that now, come tonight and the weekend- who knows?)
I am also really enjoying myself at the university coffee house. My goodness- it is so much fun making expressos and sandwiches! I really did not expect myself to like it this much.
Today I volunteered in the pediatric ward of the hospital. There I met a boy who had cancer but was cured. It then came back and he lost an eye because of it. Now, he is back because the cancer has returned and is here for some more chemo. And this boy is not even 10 years old. Sometimes you have to just thank your lucky starts that you and the people you love are healthy. I am glad to be volunteering where I am, because it gives me some solid perspective that I appreciate a lot.
So what is new and exciting in the life of Sarah Chan?
Well, I love being a Don. My floor was beginning to get out of hand, but I gave them a serious talk and so far, they have been very responsive and a lot more responsible (but I say that now, come tonight and the weekend- who knows?)
I am also really enjoying myself at the university coffee house. My goodness- it is so much fun making expressos and sandwiches! I really did not expect myself to like it this much.
Today I volunteered in the pediatric ward of the hospital. There I met a boy who had cancer but was cured. It then came back and he lost an eye because of it. Now, he is back because the cancer has returned and is here for some more chemo. And this boy is not even 10 years old. Sometimes you have to just thank your lucky starts that you and the people you love are healthy. I am glad to be volunteering where I am, because it gives me some solid perspective that I appreciate a lot.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Homecoming disaster
So Queen's homecoming made it to the front page of The Toronto Star and even on CTV news. It alarms me the severity of what we did...now the next question is how to approach this with my residents. Some of my residents were directly involved in turning over a car and lighting it on fire. This bothers me, I am thinking of maybe having a Don tea-time or something where I will ask this question for discussion, "is being drunk a good thing?" I still don't know...
Other news on the Sarah front is that I am taking intermediate tap lessons again- fun times! I feel like I am ready to do anything in my tap shoes, because I still can't believe that I am actually learning to tap dance! I think my tap shoes represent the impossible- the extraordinary- they are just magical:)
Other news on the Sarah front is that I am taking intermediate tap lessons again- fun times! I feel like I am ready to do anything in my tap shoes, because I still can't believe that I am actually learning to tap dance! I think my tap shoes represent the impossible- the extraordinary- they are just magical:)
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Shall we dance?
I saw an international ballroom dancing competition today! It was absolutely incredible- I don't think I have screamed that much in my life. There were five countries represented and I think what amazed me the most was the age of the contestants. It is strange having people younger than you achieve more than I ever could. You should have seen them! The confidence, the skill- it was really inspiring.
My favorite genre of dance is Viennese Waltz, although quick step and all the latin dances were pretty cool too. Sigh...there is just something about a guy who can dance and literally sweep you off your feet...
So the next question that pops to my mind is, when can I pick up ballroom dancing?
My favorite genre of dance is Viennese Waltz, although quick step and all the latin dances were pretty cool too. Sigh...there is just something about a guy who can dance and literally sweep you off your feet...
So the next question that pops to my mind is, when can I pick up ballroom dancing?
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
A Sarah Chan update-- it's a long one!
Well, what has happened since the last time I blogged?
1) I completed training for Common Ground (the university coffee house) and my first shift begins this Thursday! I get to make everything from sandwiches to smoothies. I will be sure to share what secrets I learn there with all of you.
2) I realize that my floor may not need me as much as I had hoped. But there is a good and bad side to this. Sure, I feel less loved, but I guess it is less of a time commitment than it would be otherwise. It is just disappointing because during training I was made to expect homesickness, roommate conflicts and scared first years- but all I have gotten so far is a messy common room after a food fight that erupted because everyone was gaily and merrily celebrating a resident's birthday...sigh...they are just too happy!
3) I am struggling with what courses I should take this semester. Should I challenge myself or go with what is safe and perhaps easy? So far, my plan is to attend all lectures in the first week and we will see how I feel afterwards. I will tell you what I decide next week. The three courses are biomedical ethics (hard), business french (middle/hard) and french grammar (easy). The tough part is I can only pick one out of the three.
4) My honours project is on the go! Its title is, "Validation and implementation of immunocytochemical localization of estrogen receptor-alpha in the parental brain of the hamster Phodopus cambelli" Confused? So am I.
5) I think that is all for now- sheesh- life goes by fast. I am also looking at applying for grad school next year. It is a scary thought because I have to choose professors and things soon, as scholarships and the like are due within the next two months. And let's not even get me started on med school applications!
Wish me luck! Boy do I feel in over my head sometimes!
1) I completed training for Common Ground (the university coffee house) and my first shift begins this Thursday! I get to make everything from sandwiches to smoothies. I will be sure to share what secrets I learn there with all of you.
2) I realize that my floor may not need me as much as I had hoped. But there is a good and bad side to this. Sure, I feel less loved, but I guess it is less of a time commitment than it would be otherwise. It is just disappointing because during training I was made to expect homesickness, roommate conflicts and scared first years- but all I have gotten so far is a messy common room after a food fight that erupted because everyone was gaily and merrily celebrating a resident's birthday...sigh...they are just too happy!
3) I am struggling with what courses I should take this semester. Should I challenge myself or go with what is safe and perhaps easy? So far, my plan is to attend all lectures in the first week and we will see how I feel afterwards. I will tell you what I decide next week. The three courses are biomedical ethics (hard), business french (middle/hard) and french grammar (easy). The tough part is I can only pick one out of the three.
4) My honours project is on the go! Its title is, "Validation and implementation of immunocytochemical localization of estrogen receptor-alpha in the parental brain of the hamster Phodopus cambelli" Confused? So am I.
5) I think that is all for now- sheesh- life goes by fast. I am also looking at applying for grad school next year. It is a scary thought because I have to choose professors and things soon, as scholarships and the like are due within the next two months. And let's not even get me started on med school applications!
Wish me luck! Boy do I feel in over my head sometimes!
Sunday, September 04, 2005
I LOVE my residents!!
Hey everybody!
So today was the official move-in day and everyone is here. They are incredibly friendly and seem to be a very happy bunch! I think I really lucked out:) They cheered voluntarily and it was just amazing. I am so pleased!
Our cheer is really super too. It is to the song "Holla back girl" by Gwen Stefani- if you don't know it, it still is cool. It goes like this:
All seven days we got the cafe, two all-male floors, and an all-star staff
so Leonard holla back now
Leonard holla back now
Repeat
The best rez is Leonard- L-E-O-N-A-R-D!
The best rez is Leonard- L-E-O-N-A-R-D!
repeat three times
Followed by cheering madly!
WOOHOO- it is really a good time- but I can't wait for some down time. I slept at 6:00 am the other day- I am beat. Hope everyone is doing well, unfortunately, you can no longer post comments because I have been getting some unprofessional comments from strangers. I hope that is ok.
The best rez is Leonard!
So today was the official move-in day and everyone is here. They are incredibly friendly and seem to be a very happy bunch! I think I really lucked out:) They cheered voluntarily and it was just amazing. I am so pleased!
Our cheer is really super too. It is to the song "Holla back girl" by Gwen Stefani- if you don't know it, it still is cool. It goes like this:
All seven days we got the cafe, two all-male floors, and an all-star staff
so Leonard holla back now
Leonard holla back now
Repeat
The best rez is Leonard- L-E-O-N-A-R-D!
The best rez is Leonard- L-E-O-N-A-R-D!
repeat three times
Followed by cheering madly!
WOOHOO- it is really a good time- but I can't wait for some down time. I slept at 6:00 am the other day- I am beat. Hope everyone is doing well, unfortunately, you can no longer post comments because I have been getting some unprofessional comments from strangers. I hope that is ok.
The best rez is Leonard!
Friday, September 02, 2005
Welcome to Leonard, September!
So I am now officially the Don of Leonard Hall at Queen's University-Floor 3 East! I have 35 students, one of who moved in today for Football training.
I have to say that this is a great feeling, I have never looked forward to September so much in my life. I really hope to be an inspiration and positive role model to my residents. The residence coordinators really pumped us up this week during Don training with sensitivity workshops and a whole new vocabulary of politically-correct terms. I feel ready for anything!
I have also determined the theme of my floor decorations and that is....cereal box characters! So I am busy right now colouring these cartoons like mad. It is a fun time and I am liking how my floor is shaping up- I am a lot more creative than I give myself credit for sometimes.
Other then Don training, there is one more dilemma I am grappling with right now and that is my position on drinking, especially underage drinking. Do we turn a blind eye to maintain a good rapport with our residents? Or should we enforce the law? It is such a grey area- made more grey by my personal experience. I fell victim to the drinking culture in first year- my lack of drinking isolated me from the culture here, making residence not very fun for me. Yet here I am almost condoning it because that is "just what we do here at Queen's". What about those who enter university and need to be protected from alcohol because they don't believe in it or just don't want to be around it? Shouldn't they be considered as well?
Good grief! I have not yet even settled my own feelings about drinking, and already I have to determine how I feel about others drinking. Oh woe! the inner conflict!!
End Scene
I have to say that this is a great feeling, I have never looked forward to September so much in my life. I really hope to be an inspiration and positive role model to my residents. The residence coordinators really pumped us up this week during Don training with sensitivity workshops and a whole new vocabulary of politically-correct terms. I feel ready for anything!
I have also determined the theme of my floor decorations and that is....cereal box characters! So I am busy right now colouring these cartoons like mad. It is a fun time and I am liking how my floor is shaping up- I am a lot more creative than I give myself credit for sometimes.
Other then Don training, there is one more dilemma I am grappling with right now and that is my position on drinking, especially underage drinking. Do we turn a blind eye to maintain a good rapport with our residents? Or should we enforce the law? It is such a grey area- made more grey by my personal experience. I fell victim to the drinking culture in first year- my lack of drinking isolated me from the culture here, making residence not very fun for me. Yet here I am almost condoning it because that is "just what we do here at Queen's". What about those who enter university and need to be protected from alcohol because they don't believe in it or just don't want to be around it? Shouldn't they be considered as well?
Good grief! I have not yet even settled my own feelings about drinking, and already I have to determine how I feel about others drinking. Oh woe! the inner conflict!!
End Scene
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
I've moved in!
Today I moved into my residence room. I have a double room with two of everything: beds, desks, dressers. Sometimes I wonder how I got it so good. I think they will be removing one set shortly however due to the high demand Queen's is experiencing this year. I hear that they are trying to place as many as 250 more students in residence right now than last year. I hope I get to keep my big room.
Tonight was also the welcome BBQ for the dons and the other staff. I have met many people from my building and it looks like they are all really nice people. One thing that does frighten me though is how much they love Harry Potter. They are actually having a Harry Potter movie marathon right now. No joke.
Official Don training starts tomorrow, bright and early at 8:30am. I still have to think up ways of decorating my floor and my room. Any suggestions?
And last but not least, Mom and Dad visited me today! It was such a wonderful surprise. We went out for a nice lunch and walked around Kingston- and it was such a beautiful day too. What an interesting change of events: now that Justine is in Toronto- I am the closest to my parents! How lucky am I!
Tonight was also the welcome BBQ for the dons and the other staff. I have met many people from my building and it looks like they are all really nice people. One thing that does frighten me though is how much they love Harry Potter. They are actually having a Harry Potter movie marathon right now. No joke.
Official Don training starts tomorrow, bright and early at 8:30am. I still have to think up ways of decorating my floor and my room. Any suggestions?
And last but not least, Mom and Dad visited me today! It was such a wonderful surprise. We went out for a nice lunch and walked around Kingston- and it was such a beautiful day too. What an interesting change of events: now that Justine is in Toronto- I am the closest to my parents! How lucky am I!
Saturday, August 20, 2005
the Sarahngeti drought must end
ok...so here is my new school year's resolution: to blog more.
Why? because as my brother pointed out to me last night on the phone, no one checks a blog that is not updated frequently and even though nothing substantial has happened to me in the past couple weeks, it does not mean that there is nothing to blog about. So here goes...
My don training starts this week! That should be fun, although of course the initial fears of getting along with everyone is at the forefront of my mind. I sometimes worry that I am not as energetic as some of my colleagues and I most definitely do not share their western lifestyle. Regardless, I just hope that my residents on my floor accept me for who I am; though I am a good five years older, I am still pretty easily intimidated.
I have also given more thought into what I want to do with my life, and surprise, surprise have basically reached the same conclusions as before- absolutely no idea! But I am exploring my options more vigorously so stay tuned...
Why? because as my brother pointed out to me last night on the phone, no one checks a blog that is not updated frequently and even though nothing substantial has happened to me in the past couple weeks, it does not mean that there is nothing to blog about. So here goes...
My don training starts this week! That should be fun, although of course the initial fears of getting along with everyone is at the forefront of my mind. I sometimes worry that I am not as energetic as some of my colleagues and I most definitely do not share their western lifestyle. Regardless, I just hope that my residents on my floor accept me for who I am; though I am a good five years older, I am still pretty easily intimidated.
I have also given more thought into what I want to do with my life, and surprise, surprise have basically reached the same conclusions as before- absolutely no idea! But I am exploring my options more vigorously so stay tuned...
Friday, August 05, 2005
It has been a long time!
I am not sure who checks my blog anymore given that I haven't been logging on for the past three months, but for those of you reading this- welcome back:)
I have had a crazy summer: a month and a half in California followed quickly by two and a half weeks in China. And now I write from Kingston- my university town. Sigh...life sure is boring here, but I guess it is nice to lie low for a while.
I have decided on my fourth year honors professor. I have chosen Prof. Wynne-Edwards, who studies hormones in hamsters. I think it will be fun.
For those of you who didn't know, I was originally with another prof, with whom I was doing the field work actually, however it became clear to me over the summer that the project didn't suit me very well. Therefore, right before coming home from China, I set out looking for a new professor, a new project. I am pretty happy with this choice and I start on Monday.
Other then that is there anymore news with me? Well, I do feel changed after my trip to China. I am not sure what it is but I feel like a different person, a little more cultured, and a little more proud of being chinese perhaps. I definitely plan on going back sometime soon. The trip has even inspired me to learn mandarin, which I will look into when I have a chance.
I think what has dawned on me recently is that I really have no idea what I want to do with my life, where I want to be next year and what my plans are. I am already in fourth year university! It is a scary thought because I have not looked into any grad programs yet or any professional schools. It seems that I was so preoccupied this summer that the responsibility of it all just slipped away. Maybe I was relying too heavily on medical school to come through like it did with Simon and Justine. But this does not seem likely and I need to be realistic about my future goals. But what do I want to do? Does anyone know?
I have had a crazy summer: a month and a half in California followed quickly by two and a half weeks in China. And now I write from Kingston- my university town. Sigh...life sure is boring here, but I guess it is nice to lie low for a while.
I have decided on my fourth year honors professor. I have chosen Prof. Wynne-Edwards, who studies hormones in hamsters. I think it will be fun.
For those of you who didn't know, I was originally with another prof, with whom I was doing the field work actually, however it became clear to me over the summer that the project didn't suit me very well. Therefore, right before coming home from China, I set out looking for a new professor, a new project. I am pretty happy with this choice and I start on Monday.
Other then that is there anymore news with me? Well, I do feel changed after my trip to China. I am not sure what it is but I feel like a different person, a little more cultured, and a little more proud of being chinese perhaps. I definitely plan on going back sometime soon. The trip has even inspired me to learn mandarin, which I will look into when I have a chance.
I think what has dawned on me recently is that I really have no idea what I want to do with my life, where I want to be next year and what my plans are. I am already in fourth year university! It is a scary thought because I have not looked into any grad programs yet or any professional schools. It seems that I was so preoccupied this summer that the responsibility of it all just slipped away. Maybe I was relying too heavily on medical school to come through like it did with Simon and Justine. But this does not seem likely and I need to be realistic about my future goals. But what do I want to do? Does anyone know?
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Hello from San Diego!
Hey Everyone!
I am writing from my professor's friend's house. He has gone out camping with his family for this memorial day weekend and has let us live here for the next two days while he is out- crazy eh? So we are right now in San Diego and it is definitely what I had expected and more. The wealth in this neighbourhood and surrounding ones is incredible. There is even a neighbourhood riding school and stable, how posh!
To give a quick run-down of what has been going on, here are the highlights (I can't believe that it has only been a little more than a week! It really feels like I have been away for months...but I am enjoying myself immensely)
1. working from 8:00am-11:00pm- involves measuring plant sizes, counting seeds etc.
2. eating at really really weird times of day (right now we are cooking dinner and it is 9pm here)
3. SURFING! I tried it and it was really really cool. The whole surf culture is amazing
4. driving- a lot of driving. Sometimes we drive for about 5-8 hours in a day. But that is ok because we have Harry Potter on audio cassette which passes the time.
Well, that is all I have the time for- grubs up and everyone is waiting for me! But I have a great time:)
I am writing from my professor's friend's house. He has gone out camping with his family for this memorial day weekend and has let us live here for the next two days while he is out- crazy eh? So we are right now in San Diego and it is definitely what I had expected and more. The wealth in this neighbourhood and surrounding ones is incredible. There is even a neighbourhood riding school and stable, how posh!
To give a quick run-down of what has been going on, here are the highlights (I can't believe that it has only been a little more than a week! It really feels like I have been away for months...but I am enjoying myself immensely)
1. working from 8:00am-11:00pm- involves measuring plant sizes, counting seeds etc.
2. eating at really really weird times of day (right now we are cooking dinner and it is 9pm here)
3. SURFING! I tried it and it was really really cool. The whole surf culture is amazing
4. driving- a lot of driving. Sometimes we drive for about 5-8 hours in a day. But that is ok because we have Harry Potter on audio cassette which passes the time.
Well, that is all I have the time for- grubs up and everyone is waiting for me! But I have a great time:)
Sunday, May 15, 2005
Three, two, one - Counting down to California
I leave for California in a couple days and will not surface again for another six weeks. Because of this absence, I thought it best to have one last update before signing off.
I had originally thought that I would be able to blog while in California, but it looks like I will be camping in the wilderness for the full six weeks. In other words, in between running from sasquatches, spearing fish and foraging for berries, I will have no opportunity to blog...alas...
On a serious note, I think it appropriate to express my hopes for this trip.
First, I hope to gain more appreciation for nature and conservation. As humans, we tend to take advantage of such things, and not pay enough attention to maintaining a healthy, sustainable environment- let's clean up our acts folks!
Second, I hope to find out more about what I want to do with my life. Is research what I am destined for? I have my doubts because I feel that I would be a waste of academic resources. I have accepted that I am not the sharpest tool in the toolshed and to be a researcher, one has to have drive, creativity and expertise. I feel that I can contribute to humanity in other ways that would flatter my strengths. Hopefully this trip will give me insight into this...
Third, I hope to have the time out there to really get to know myself better and to accept myself through and through. I hope the solitude (though there will be a grad student with me) will be a refreshing change to the hectic life of a university student, where clubs, volunteer work, and classes have me surrounded by people 24/7. Priorities are also skewed I find in the university setting, where I feel marks determine self-worth.
Lastly, I hope to really toughen myself up. I must admit that thus far, my parents have done a truly splendid job in sheltering me from the world's harsh realities, and it is time that I break away. True, I am not going to harlem, nor am I exposing myself to things like poverty and disease. But I will be going to the bathroom in a hole in the ground, maybe even using nearby leaves as toilet paper. I will also be limited in the number of showers I can take and the types of foods I can eat. Furthermore, during the day, I will be toiling in the heat of the sun, crouching over plants with aching muscles attempting to cross-pollinate flowers. I think this will be the closest I will ever get to understanding what Grandma's past farming experiences were like, and that is truly inspiring.
Ultimately, I hope to come back refreshed and motivated to make change. (I have high expectations for this trip, don't I?) Maybe I will come back as the same person who left. If that is the case, well...fortunately I think I will be ok with that too.
I hope to see you all when I get back. Have a safe and happy May/June.
I had originally thought that I would be able to blog while in California, but it looks like I will be camping in the wilderness for the full six weeks. In other words, in between running from sasquatches, spearing fish and foraging for berries, I will have no opportunity to blog...alas...
On a serious note, I think it appropriate to express my hopes for this trip.
First, I hope to gain more appreciation for nature and conservation. As humans, we tend to take advantage of such things, and not pay enough attention to maintaining a healthy, sustainable environment- let's clean up our acts folks!
Second, I hope to find out more about what I want to do with my life. Is research what I am destined for? I have my doubts because I feel that I would be a waste of academic resources. I have accepted that I am not the sharpest tool in the toolshed and to be a researcher, one has to have drive, creativity and expertise. I feel that I can contribute to humanity in other ways that would flatter my strengths. Hopefully this trip will give me insight into this...
Third, I hope to have the time out there to really get to know myself better and to accept myself through and through. I hope the solitude (though there will be a grad student with me) will be a refreshing change to the hectic life of a university student, where clubs, volunteer work, and classes have me surrounded by people 24/7. Priorities are also skewed I find in the university setting, where I feel marks determine self-worth.
Lastly, I hope to really toughen myself up. I must admit that thus far, my parents have done a truly splendid job in sheltering me from the world's harsh realities, and it is time that I break away. True, I am not going to harlem, nor am I exposing myself to things like poverty and disease. But I will be going to the bathroom in a hole in the ground, maybe even using nearby leaves as toilet paper. I will also be limited in the number of showers I can take and the types of foods I can eat. Furthermore, during the day, I will be toiling in the heat of the sun, crouching over plants with aching muscles attempting to cross-pollinate flowers. I think this will be the closest I will ever get to understanding what Grandma's past farming experiences were like, and that is truly inspiring.
Ultimately, I hope to come back refreshed and motivated to make change. (I have high expectations for this trip, don't I?) Maybe I will come back as the same person who left. If that is the case, well...fortunately I think I will be ok with that too.
I hope to see you all when I get back. Have a safe and happy May/June.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Finishing up
I finished my exams today. It is always an anti-climax I find, but it is good to finally be done.
Justine said something to me the other day which made me think, she was saying that when one has a significant other, as the relationship progresses, that person will eventually become more important than family. I wonder if this is true. I certainly hope not, because I have realized that family is everything!
Also, I find that I talk to much. I need to really hold my tongue, or it will get me into trouble one day.
The last revelation I have is that Chinese people have a lot of negative stereotypes to combat. It is quite unfortunate, but true. For example, did you know that in Kingston, Chinese people are known to be bad tippers and penny-pinchers? I went out for dinner yesterday and tipped 20% just to make sure I didn't perpetuate such a negative stereotype. The sad part however, is that I am not surprised by this stereotype, which makes me wonder how this came to be.
Any thoughts?
Justine said something to me the other day which made me think, she was saying that when one has a significant other, as the relationship progresses, that person will eventually become more important than family. I wonder if this is true. I certainly hope not, because I have realized that family is everything!
Also, I find that I talk to much. I need to really hold my tongue, or it will get me into trouble one day.
The last revelation I have is that Chinese people have a lot of negative stereotypes to combat. It is quite unfortunate, but true. For example, did you know that in Kingston, Chinese people are known to be bad tippers and penny-pinchers? I went out for dinner yesterday and tipped 20% just to make sure I didn't perpetuate such a negative stereotype. The sad part however, is that I am not surprised by this stereotype, which makes me wonder how this came to be.
Any thoughts?
Monday, April 25, 2005
Jonathan is the coolest cousin ever!
...so that was really, really interesting. It is 12:33 am and I just got off the phone with my dear cousin Jonathan Chan in New York. We talked for a crazy 2 hours! It was awesome, I am not going to lie. He is so smart and was telling me about type I and type II diabetes. Just crazy! I wish he could write my exams for me.
And before I sign off, I would like to leave you all with some very wise words from the lips of Jonathan himself, and I quote [from our conversation]:
"Too much audacity isn't a good thing"
(Incredible! I didn't even know what audacity meant!)
And before I sign off, I would like to leave you all with some very wise words from the lips of Jonathan himself, and I quote [from our conversation]:
"Too much audacity isn't a good thing"
(Incredible! I didn't even know what audacity meant!)
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Wanna see me dance?
I just learned that there is a video of our dance show on the web! So I would like to share it with all of you just in case you wanted to see exactly what this dance recital I speak of is all about.
Just go to the website http://www.monarchvideoproductions.ca/justdance.html
Then click "PLAY"
To watch individual dances, click scene selection. I am in two numbers. The first one is titled "Land of 1000 dances" and should be scene #10. In this dance, I am on the right wearing an orange belt. I am not too visible in this dance, although I am in the first two rows for most of it.
My second number is called, "Drum Roll please" and is dance #13. I am wearing a light blue jersey with the number 27 on it. I am in the front row, on the right for most of the first couple minutes of the dance. Can you spot me?
This link expires in a month, so make sure you watch it before then.
Enjoy...and try not to laugh!
Just go to the website http://www.monarchvideoproductions.ca/justdance.html
Then click "PLAY"
To watch individual dances, click scene selection. I am in two numbers. The first one is titled "Land of 1000 dances" and should be scene #10. In this dance, I am on the right wearing an orange belt. I am not too visible in this dance, although I am in the first two rows for most of it.
My second number is called, "Drum Roll please" and is dance #13. I am wearing a light blue jersey with the number 27 on it. I am in the front row, on the right for most of the first couple minutes of the dance. Can you spot me?
This link expires in a month, so make sure you watch it before then.
Enjoy...and try not to laugh!
Hummus is Yummus!
I made Hummus today! All it takes is a can of chickpeas, peanut butter, garlic and lemon juice. It is really a genius of a recipe: it tastes good and is nutritional too!
There is not much to report unfortunately. Right now I am basically studying for exams; I have three more to go. I guess the newest development is that I am working at the campus coffeehouse next year instead of the Publishing and Copy centre. It should be a good time because I will learn how to make slushies, sandwiches and specialty coffees!
Also, the China Synergy program is a go. I sent all my forms in yesterday. My summer seems to look like this: first two months in California followed by two weeks in China. Afterwards, I will then settle into Kingston to start my fourth year honour's thesis in Plant evolution. By mid-August I will be in Residence to start my Don training.
But alas...it looks like I will be missing the family reunion, which makes me very sad. Hopefully Justine and I will be able to make it down to Toronto just in time to see Auntie Edna before she goes and perhaps, if we are lucky, even Uncle Ming and his family!
PS you can post comments now- just mark yourself as an anonymous user and it should be good to go. Look forward to hearing from you:)
There is not much to report unfortunately. Right now I am basically studying for exams; I have three more to go. I guess the newest development is that I am working at the campus coffeehouse next year instead of the Publishing and Copy centre. It should be a good time because I will learn how to make slushies, sandwiches and specialty coffees!
Also, the China Synergy program is a go. I sent all my forms in yesterday. My summer seems to look like this: first two months in California followed by two weeks in China. Afterwards, I will then settle into Kingston to start my fourth year honour's thesis in Plant evolution. By mid-August I will be in Residence to start my Don training.
But alas...it looks like I will be missing the family reunion, which makes me very sad. Hopefully Justine and I will be able to make it down to Toronto just in time to see Auntie Edna before she goes and perhaps, if we are lucky, even Uncle Ming and his family!
PS you can post comments now- just mark yourself as an anonymous user and it should be good to go. Look forward to hearing from you:)
Monday, April 11, 2005
They liked it, they really liked it!
Wow...now there is a first! I went to my staff social tonight and it happened to be a potluck. As you all know, I am head of the Queen's Asian Cooking Club, however, this in no way implies that I can actually cook- I am trying to dabble a bit here and there, but I have had more mess-ups than successes. Anyway, I made a potato salad and it was a HUGE hit! ( special thanks go out to mom and dad who came up this weekend to take me out grocery shopping and to dinner)
I put pineapples, apples, eggs, potatoes, carrots and pears in it and it was fruit-tastic. As I was sitting at one end of the room, I could hear people say, "is that an apple? No it's a pear! wow, this thing is so full of surprises!" Now I know you are probably all thinking that this comment could be interpreted in many different ways, but for all you skeptics out there, they really said it in a good way; by the end of the night, I had given away the recipe to a couple people and all the salad was gone. Triumph!
I put pineapples, apples, eggs, potatoes, carrots and pears in it and it was fruit-tastic. As I was sitting at one end of the room, I could hear people say, "is that an apple? No it's a pear! wow, this thing is so full of surprises!" Now I know you are probably all thinking that this comment could be interpreted in many different ways, but for all you skeptics out there, they really said it in a good way; by the end of the night, I had given away the recipe to a couple people and all the salad was gone. Triumph!
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Lesson #1: Procrastination is a bad thing
I may have two exams and a paper to write, but I thought to myself, what is the value of keeping my wonderful family informed? ...PRICELESS...
So although this may sadden my father, I am putting off work for the next couple minutes to let you know what is going on in my life.
Besides exams, I have found out more about my trip to California. It turns out that I may only be there for two months- which will enable me to go to CHINA for a program called "The China Synergy Program". It takes place every year, and Justine and I both got accepted to take part this summer:)
This may also mean that I can make it to the FAMILY REUNION!! (for at least a weekend I hope) When is it again?
Lastly, there is a biology formal this Saturday. It will be first time since my first year that I have gotten dressed up for a dinner. It promises to be a good time with dancing!
So although this may sadden my father, I am putting off work for the next couple minutes to let you know what is going on in my life.
Besides exams, I have found out more about my trip to California. It turns out that I may only be there for two months- which will enable me to go to CHINA for a program called "The China Synergy Program". It takes place every year, and Justine and I both got accepted to take part this summer:)
This may also mean that I can make it to the FAMILY REUNION!! (for at least a weekend I hope) When is it again?
Lastly, there is a biology formal this Saturday. It will be first time since my first year that I have gotten dressed up for a dinner. It promises to be a good time with dancing!
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Feeling some Chinese synergy
Guess what everybody!
I just found out that I was selected to be a delegate at the annual Chinese Synergy program! This is an exciting opportunity because it sends me to China where I will visit different cities to meet with leaders and attend seminars. It sure sounds like fun. They also will make me a custom-made uniform to wear on special occasions! Sort of makes me feel like one of the Von Trapp children in The Sound of Music:)
I just hope it doesn't conflict with my trip to California...
I just found out that I was selected to be a delegate at the annual Chinese Synergy program! This is an exciting opportunity because it sends me to China where I will visit different cities to meet with leaders and attend seminars. It sure sounds like fun. They also will make me a custom-made uniform to wear on special occasions! Sort of makes me feel like one of the Von Trapp children in The Sound of Music:)
I just hope it doesn't conflict with my trip to California...
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Dance it up!
I am not sure how many people know this, but I am an avid beginner dancer. It is true- turn on the music and I look like a chicken in Tap shoes:)
At Queen's they offer dance lessons of all kinds. I signed up for intermediate Hip Hop and intermediate Tap dance (inspired by my little cousin Jennifer who is no doubt better than I am). And at the very end of the year, we put on a large dance show. This year we had a sold-out crowd on all four nights! Needless to say, it is great fun and a great way of relieving stress after a hard days work.
Hopefully, there will be a picture that accompanies this message- if I can sort out the technology...
At Queen's they offer dance lessons of all kinds. I signed up for intermediate Hip Hop and intermediate Tap dance (inspired by my little cousin Jennifer who is no doubt better than I am). And at the very end of the year, we put on a large dance show. This year we had a sold-out crowd on all four nights! Needless to say, it is great fun and a great way of relieving stress after a hard days work.
Hopefully, there will be a picture that accompanies this message- if I can sort out the technology...
Monday, March 21, 2005
Call me Don
I just found out I made Don today:)
For those of you who may not know what that is, it is basically a community advisor for first years in residence. I get free room and board as well as a free meal plan! Sweet deal.
It is strange because I actually am looking forward to the meal plan. Mom is worried that I will eat too much - to get my money's worth so to speak. And I must confess, I don't blame her. Of the freshman 15 in first year, I gained 7! (Freshman 15 is the supposed weight gain in pounds of the average first year here at Queen's. Frightening eh?) I suppose it doesn't help that it is buffet style with unlimited ice cream and desserts.
But regardless, I feel great! Like I am about to embark on a new mission. I have no idea which residence I will be in but I am crossing my fingers to be placed in one of the new buildings. If I do, I will get my own bathroom and double bed!
For those of you who may not know what that is, it is basically a community advisor for first years in residence. I get free room and board as well as a free meal plan! Sweet deal.
It is strange because I actually am looking forward to the meal plan. Mom is worried that I will eat too much - to get my money's worth so to speak. And I must confess, I don't blame her. Of the freshman 15 in first year, I gained 7! (Freshman 15 is the supposed weight gain in pounds of the average first year here at Queen's. Frightening eh?) I suppose it doesn't help that it is buffet style with unlimited ice cream and desserts.
But regardless, I feel great! Like I am about to embark on a new mission. I have no idea which residence I will be in but I am crossing my fingers to be placed in one of the new buildings. If I do, I will get my own bathroom and double bed!
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
My first time Blogging
Hi everyone! Wow, this is cool. I hope I have time to keep this as up to date as possible.
Well, there is not much really to say...test 1, 2, 3...?
Well, there is not much really to say...test 1, 2, 3...?
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