Almost there!

Hello Hamline!

Just wanted to give a shout-out to all the seniors who are oh-so-close to being done with classes and finals. I don’t have unlimited stores of wisdom, but I do have one piece of advice for all of you that are moving on to “big-kid jobs” or grad school: enjoy the moment and cherish the memories.

You only get four years to make the most of your time at Hamline. Looking forward to the future is great, but don’t forget about all the professors, roommates, and friends who shaped you while you “figured out what you wanted to do with your life.” When I was in high school, I had a track meet at my dad’s college once. On our way back to the car, he took a little time to show me all the spaces where he had made memories, and some day I hope to do that with my kids when I bring them onto Hamline’s campus.

As I work graduation once again this year and watch my friends smile as they run up to mom and dad after the ceremony to show off their diploma, I have a little advice. It’s easy to get caught up in job-searching and plans for the future, but don’t forget to enjoy the moment. Congratulations class of 2012!

That’s all for now,

Claire

 

My Last Week of Classes as a Piper

As Casey alluded to, I will be transferring to Portland State University next year to finish out my bachelor’s degree. There’s nothing wrong with Hamline at all. In fact, I love it here! It’s a great university with plenty of things to do in the surrounding areas. There’s no shortage of opportunities at Hamline either. I’ve made such great friends and memories in my two years as a Piper. It’s going to be hard to leave on May 17th, the day after I finish my finals.

Ultimately I am leaving because I miss my family, friends, and girlfriend back home. I also just miss my great home state of Oregon (not Ore-GONE). While I think it is the right decision to move back now, I don’t regret my original decision to come to Hamline one bit.

In reflection, here are some of my favorite things about Hamline that I will really miss:

• My friends and our Sunday morning Sorin breakfast adventures last year.
• My student-worker position at Marketing Communications.
• My roommate Kyle singing Dragonforce songs in falsetto in the shower.
• Snow! We seldom get it in Oregon.
• Lifting weights with friends.
• Running with Brendan Ruter and Chris Reisdorfer from the Cross Country team.
• Throwing javelin for the track team (I really do wish I would have thrown this year!)
• My favorite professors: Frisch, Bosley, Winstandley, Lapakko, and Gorina.
• Being a part of HUSC (Hamline Undergraduate Student Congress).
• The small and accepting community.
• The ability to have one-on-one face time with professors.
• The easy access to tutors and other academic resources. Words can’t describe how helpful the tutors were when it came to Chemistry and Calculus. Grade savers.

With that said, I am here for 10 more days! If you only had 10 more days to be in the Twin Cities, what would you do? Clearly I need to study for finals a little bit, but I want to really embrace my last chance in the foreseeable future to be in Minnesota! What should I see? I’ll probably make one more trip to the Mall of America for sure, but other than that I have no idea what I’ve missed out on. I’ve still never been to Culver’s, so my roommates are going to take me there soon.

I will miss you all, but if you want to, feel free to keep in touch by email at jslate01@hamlineuniversity.edu, on Twitter, or on Facebook. Alternatively, check out my website.

Final Week of Classes!

Things are somewhat gloomy around the Marketing Communications floor today because it is the last week of classes for Josh and I. Josh will be transferring to be closer to his family, and I will be graduating. I started working here half way through my freshman year so I have been here for over three and a half years. It’s been my first semi-career! To think before this, I was a student worker for the sports med facility – basically a water girl for the football and basketball teams… can you say smelly? Needless to say, this was a HUGE step up!

I am really excited to go to lunch with everyone later this week to say goodbyes and reminisce. After over three years, you really form a bond with the office and I can honestly say I do not want to leave.

So what is the final week of classes like for a piper?
Well, for me it will be a pretty okay way to end the semester – I have it sort of easy. I present my final research project tomorrow afternoon and will turn in the paper for my study as well. That is my primary focus. We also have a senior picnic on Thursday and review for other classes for finals week.

Next week I will have one reflective paper and one test (not final – test!). I think my work load is quite manageable which I am very grateful for because then I can concentrate on starting my career, moving, and enjoying the end of my time at Hamline.

Sad to say that my final post may be after graduation Study hard Hamline!
Casey

A tough break

I have some disappointing news to report: I am now “that girl,” you know, the one on crutches. I can think of a million ways that I would have picked for my season to end other than being sidelined with a broken ankle, but it could be worse, and I have my sights set on tearing up the cross country course with my teammates next fall.

The first question I usually get is “what happened?” and unfortunately, I don’t have a gruesome story to tell, it just broke. Well, not quite. I had been developing a hairline fracture for about a month but didn’t realize that the nagging pain in my ankle was anything more than soreness from an old sprain. I was running the 5k at Macalester on Sunday (the  meet had been postponed from Saturday) and about halfway through the pain got really sharp and I had to step off the track.

What happened next is the actual point of this blog. Macalester’s athletic trainer came running over to where I was sitting on the ground. She got me ice, and later, crutches, when I realized I wasn’t going to be able to walk off of the infield. If a player gets hurt in soccer of football, for some examples, you usually see a group of trainers and coaches from their team run out on the field. Track isn’t like that; we’re usually lucky if we get a few fans beyond our parents and roommates, let alone an entourage of support staff.  It didn’t matter what color jersey I was wearing for the host school’s athletic trainer; for that day, it was her job to make sure every athlete competing was taken care of. 

This is part of what makes running track and cross country in the MIAC (Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) so special. I’ve become good friends with more than one runner from another school whom I regularly compete against; sometimes it can be hard to yell all their names out as the pack races by. While I was sitting cnear the track during Wednesday night’s Tommie Twilight meet–my first on the DL (disabled list)–one of the officials who regularly starts or clerks meets around the cities asked me what had happened, since he had yelled at me to “take ’em off” (referring to my sweats) just a couple of weeks ago. It’s this sense of camaraderie that makes competing in this conference such a rewarding experience.

To all the student athletes reading this, remember to thank your athletic trainer for everything they do so you can keep competing, not just when they tape a sweaty ankle or wrap a bag of ice onto an awkward-to-ice area. And while good sportsmanship should go without saying, appreciate your competitors for pushing you to be your best, too.

That’s all for now,

Claire

Tips for Commuters

This semester marked the only time in my college experience that I haven’t had to commute every day. It was a welcome change to be able to walk straight from the dorms and to my classes (An extra hour of sleeping in? Yes, please!). But next semester I’ll be be living 25 minutes away and so it’s back to driving. Like pretty much everything in life, commuting has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are five tips every commuter should know:

A familiar sight for any commuter.

• Leave ridiculously early. I can’t stress this enough. Having to kill an hour in the library is much better than frantically trying to find a parking spot and sprinting across campus. I like to tack on at least a half hour for unforeseen obstacles. So if your commute takes about 25 minutes and your class starts at 9:00, you should leave your house at 8:00.
• Make sure you know where you can and can’t park. You don’t want to spend your weekend trying to rescue your car from the impound lot. If in doubt, drive around and park somewhere further away. Safety and Security has a page detailing Hamline’s parking policies. It may not be the most thrilling read, but it’s important information.
• Expect heavy traffic. Chances are you’ll be driving during rush hour at least once a day during the week. Make sure you have plenty of music to listen to and enough extra time to burn sitting in traffic.
• Don’t use commuting as an excuse not to get involved. It’s incredibly tempting to just take off immediately after all your classes are over, but sticking around an extra hour or two really helps. Make sure to at least join some student organizations so you can form those connections on campus. Do your homework in the library instead of on your living room floor. Swing by Klas for dinner a few nights. Don’t be that person that only goes to classes and does nothing else.
• Tank up. Stalling out on the highway 20 minutes before class starts? Not fun.

Guest Speaker: David J. Contis

On Friday I had the pleasure of sitting and listening to a guest speaker while attending Stacie Bosley’s Quantitative Analysis class. From my previous experiences with guest speakers, I was definitely not looking forward to this presentation, but wow was I in for a surprise. The speaker that was brought in was David J. Contis of Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE: SPG) He was a live wire. You could immediately tell that he’s highly motivated by and proud of his work. Basically, Mr. Contis is in charge of some big time real estate deals involving primarily shopping malls. I loved how he brought up $300 million so casually. The sums of money that are mere pocket change in his line of work are mind boggling to broke college students.

The biggest take home messages that I got from listening to Mr. Contis speak are as follows:

1.) Take risks after you analyze the downside carefully, and take ownership of mistakes early so you can minimize the damage done. Risk takers stand out to employers.

2.) Don’t be afraid to “average down” on an investment if you 100% believe in it. If you’re hesitant, get out.

3.) You can’t win them all. Expect some losses, but try to minimize them.

4.) Don’t let emotion blind you in an investment; stay objective.

These are things that I’ve heard many times before, but it was refreshing to hear it in person from somebody who is actually making a killing investing.

Real estate from David Contis’ point of view sounds a lot more exciting than all those boring real estate ads make it out to be, that’s for sure. I’m keeping an open mind in terms of future careers, but I’m definitely adding real-estate investment to that list because it sounds awesome!

Hamline has brought in some great speakers since I’ve been around. I’m glad that the school makes such a huge effort to bring in real talent to speak to students. It’s really nice to get that real world connection.

Classes Wind Down, Sights to See, Long-Distance Relationships

Last weekend I got the rare chance to go home, and I had a great time! I got to spend time with my family, one of my best friends, and my girlfriend. Needless to say, the weekend went by way too quickly. It was really tough to get back on the plane and come back. This morning I realized that I only have 25 more days in Minnesota before I return home to live in Oregon. Quick plug: I am looking for a finance / analyst internship for the summer in Portland, OR, so if you’ve heard of anything let me know!

Classes are winding down quickly. There are only three-ish weeks left of class before finals! I’ve previously given advice and tips on time management and studying. Well, here’s my official alert: IT IS TIME TO STUDY! Really, don’t put it off much longer. I know most people have big papers and projects due soon too. Just try to get a jump start on everything before it is too late. You won’t regret it!

I only have 25 more days in Minnesota, so what do I need to see before I go? I would love restaurant ideas and maybe even little shops or entertainment venues. I am very open to suggestion at this point, because I want to experience as much of the Twin Cities culture as I possibly can before leaving. Throw me some ideas!

The final thing I want to talk about in this rambling post is long-distance relationships. Not a normal topic of discussion for me, but lately a lot of people have been asking how my girlfriend and I make our relationship work when we live almost 2,000 miles away.

First off, it’s really not as hard as it seems; for us at least. When you care enough, you can find the patience to make it work. With this kind of distance it can quickly become apparent if it’s a one sided relationship or if both people involved are participating equally towards making the relationship a great one.

Secondly, constant communication is vital and easy thanks to modern technology. It takes a minute to send a good morning text message and wish for a good day. It also tells that person that they’re the first thing you think of when you’re waking up. People are busy and time zones get in the way, but it only takes a few seconds to send a quick text message or leave a quick voicemail and say “Hi, I miss you and I hope your day is going well, I’ll talk to you soon!” The little things add up! Another thing that we do is we Skype before bed to say good night. There’s nothing like going to bed with a smile on your face.

Another thing worth noting is that you should cherish the time you have together. This weekend was great, and I loved every minute of it until I was flying home. Still, I see people with their significant others getting in petty arguments and saying rude things to one another. That’s not time well spent. Make every minute count if you’re in a long-distance relationship! Also, never say good bye, just “See you soon!” Good byes aren’t fun. See you soons have some optimism behind them.

And finally, I will continue with the little things. My girlfriend and I send each other physical letters. She calls randomly just to tell me how much she cares. She sends me songs on Spotify to put me in a better mood. She records cute little videos of herself and sends them to me on Facebook. These things seem small, but they all add up! I’m a very happy camper.

That’s my take on long-distance relationships and why mine works so well. I know a lot of college students wind up in long-distance relationships when they move to an out-of-state college, so I’m just hoping that this can help someone out with theirs. Also, the movie “Going the Distance” is pretty funny, so check it out!

Career Obtained

Career

YES! After months of diligently scouting for a full time position, I have gotten an offer! It feels so amazing after weeks of hectic scheduling, exhausting contacts, and interview preparation. I have connected with Hamline faculty and staff outside of classroom and work study settings to expand my network and I am so happy to tell them that it has paid off! Feeling their sense of pride in my success, and receiving high-5’s around the office really shows the strong community Hamline can be if you open yourself up to it.

– Tips –

1. Do NOT negotiate salary and benefits until you are officially offered the position – This is when you are most powerful during the job hunt. You have gotten them to admit that they want you and they are therefore willing to work with your needs to some extent. Hamline’s Career Development Center has TONS of tips and tricks for performing this little dance with prospective employers.
2. Network with EVERYONE you know on campus – Hamline faculty and staff know practically everyone, especially in the Twin Cities. If you need an “in” they are eager to help you!
3. Informational Interviews – Even if a place you like isn’t hiring for a position you want, ask a contact at that organization for coffee or a quick bite to eat. They will take your resume and bring it back to their organization to keep on file. It looks great that you took such initiative for when they do find something in your field. Dress professionally, be personable, and go to somewhere near them so that it isn’t a time consuming obligation – they are doing YOU a favor!

Housing

With my career falling into place and therefore my income secured, I was able to apply for an apartment in Golden Valley! I am excited to start my adult life and be on my own (with a short 15 min. drive from mom and dad for when I want a little extra comfort). Negotiating a lease or apartment application can be intimidating. Know what you want and be critical!

– Tips –

1. Again, BE CRITICAL!!!! Notice every little detail. Flip on every light and faucet – how long does it take to warm up? Notice the water pressure. Ask about average bills for heat and electric. The attendant will know this information and you get a sense of what you will ACTUALLY be paying. Can you paint? Hang things? Cable in more rooms than one? Response to maintenance requests? Will you have a pet? Is there a pet deposit, separate rent, both? Parking fees? Guest parking? Snow plowing? Find out as much as you can and notice how they respond over email – if you can, get all the information in writing (email) so you can look back, and also it is there if they give you a different answer once you move in.
2. Lease negotiation – get EVERYTHING in writing! Who is responsible for which payments? Can they visit/show the apartment without you there? Cross every T and dot every I, if not, you may regret it.
   1. A little FYI – Waste Management for the Hamline area wants landlords to handle that expense – don’t sign a lease saying it is your obligation or you will face a hefty fine and payment battle with your landlord. You may even have to attend a court hearing over the matter like we did last spring.
3. Notice the area – where is the nearest grocery shopping? Restaurants? Your commute to work? Also note that you may have another monthly parking fee if you plan to work in the cities. Are you in a business area? Busy shops and nightlife? Residential? Your neighbors may care (noise, etc.)!
4. Do your best to tour the actual unit you would be renting. Some places have model units they do for tours which are obviously going to be kept in the most pristine conditions. This way you know exactly what you are getting in to.
   1. Most places require current tenants to notify the complex 2 months before they terminate their lease and therefore establish the vacant/rent-able units for you. EX- If you are looking to rent in August, the complex will not know their official availability until June. (You can still look at the place, but you likely wont see the exact unit you would rent).
5. There is a fee to apply – my application was about $35 which I am told is “not too bad at all.” The application usually asks about your previous renting history, if they can contact your previous landlords, current employment and pay rate. They also do a standard criminal background check (which is mostly what the application fee goes towards) and they verify your salary to make sure you will be able to make the monthly payments. Some places just ask you make enough to cover the expected fees each month and other places ask that you make about 2-2.5 times the monthly rent expense. Just things to keep in mind when you tour places you like!

Graduation

With my career path underway and my housing falling into place, I am on a steadfast path to graduation! Tomorrow night is the Class of 2012 Senior Reception where we will gather as a class to remissness about our time at Hamline. Faculty nominated by our class will give brief speeches to the students and toast to our success. Plus, free food!I am counting down the days (25!!!!!!) until commencement and can’t wait wrap this success under my belt.

I am so excited to be done with classes, however I am not ready to leave the connections I have established throughout campus. Most missed will be my work study position here in Marketing Communications. I was hired on my freshman year and started with filing and administrative duties. Then I learned how to manage the online campus Events Calendar and help with marketing photo shoots. As we redesigned the website in 2010, I evolved to an esteemed web editor in the higher education industry. This is something I hope to meet up with again as I build my career. I do not want to leave my team so don’t be shocked if you see me around campus still!

Also, student organizations have become an important part to my Hamline experience. I used to think they are for the “over-achievers” and such but after joining HUSC to help my friend out in a time of need, I haven’t been able to step away. My advice – just try it. Start off in a student organization and if you don’t like it, leave!!! They are easy to get out of and you can choose how involved or not involved you want to be, but if you really like it you can THRIVE and it looks great to prospective employers.

As you may know, my parents – Rita Younger ’81 and George Willmarth ’80 – also attended Hamline and have been extremely proud of how I have made this educational experience my own. Below are a few photos of them at Hamline, and a couple of my mom at her commencement.

My parents married the next day.

Rita Younger at commencement ’81

Rita Younger and George Willmarth

My mom, her roommate Lisa, and my (at the time) “little” cousin Jody on the way to commencement ’81

My mom and her Hamline friends

A few more travel tips…

As Josh mentioned in his last blog post, I do have a bit of traveling experience. Only once in college have I gone home for less than a week, so it’s really not feasible for me to bring only a carry-on bag. And I’m a typical girl in that I need as many pairs of shoes as days that I’m going to be away. Plus, I usually end up flying airlines where bags are free. Here are a few of my own tips:

1) Getting a friend to drive you to the airport is a good alternative to forking over $30 for a cab, but make sure that they’re reliable, especially if you have an early-morning flight, and build a little buffer time into your schedule in case their car doesn’t start.

2) Check to make sure you have your ID before you leave for the airport. (And make sure you put it in a safe place after going through security.) In the event that you miss a flight and need to be rebooked, the gate agent will ask to see your ID.

3) If your checked bags are a little full, make sure you check the weight before you go to the airport. An easy way to do this is to weigh yourself holding the bag and subtract that from your weight. My mom got me a portable bag-weigher, which is a little gadget that kind of resembles a coat hanger and is remarkably accurate. Neither of these methods are fool-proof, so unless you want to start a “warning-heavy bag” tag collection like me, it’s best to leave a couple things behind.

4) If you miss a connection, be polite but assertive. The airlines will typically book you on another airline or offer a hotel room if your misfortunes are the result of a mechanical problem, but if weather’s to blame you’re unlikely to get any extra compensation. That said, be nice to the agent, and they might just give you a tip on how to move up on the stand-by list for the next available flight.

5)These days, a lot of airlines charge to check bags. If you want to save some money but not carry a big duffel bag around the airport all day, consider voluntarily gate-checking your bag. A lot of times there isn’t enough overhead bin space, and the gate agent will be asking for volunteers before you board.

Happy travels!

That’s all for now,

Claire

Strategies to survive any class

Hello Hamline! So Casey suggested I post a little bit about working in groups, but I figured I would take it a step further, being the over-achiever that I am, and give a few strategies for how to make it through any type of class, even something that might not be ‘your cup of tea.’

1-Have an open mind. This is critical to any situation. You’re not going to do well if you’re constantly telling yourself–and everyone around you–that you hate it.

2-When working in small groups BE COURTEOUS. This one might seem obvious, but sometimes people can get really upset if they feel like not all group members are pulling their weight on a project or they have an idea that’s being shot down by the group before they’ve had a chance to explain it. Oh, and baking cookies for your group never hurt, either.

3-Make sure your studying environment fits the task. For me, this means that I need it to be pretty quiet for reading, and somewhere with a little background noise but not a lot of distractions for writing.

4-Reward yourself. Studies show that your time spent hitting the books is more effective if you take frequent breaks. Alternatively, I like taking “homework fieldtrips” to a favorite park or coffeehouse.

5-Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Professors love it when students come visit them during their office hours. Tutors usually hang out by themselves. Take advantage of the support available to you!

With that said, good luck with the end of the semester and finals everyone!

That’s all for now,

Claire