So, I've not blogged in over a month. I think I'm still relishing in the glory of having weekends and evenings, and frankly, I've not been doing much of anything productive during those times. It's time to get back at it, though I'm going to be off blogging next weekend, too.
At this point, I've graduated and am working 5 days per week. It is fabulous. I'm enjoying being challenged by my job, learning new things every day, and having time to see family and friends that I missed a lot during my time as a full-time student and nearly full-time employee.
And now, I'm still figuring out what this new life means. It's been quite some time since I've "just" worked. During other full time jobs, I traveled for work at least monthly, was studying for the GRE/applying to grad school, or had another commitment that took up a lot of time. This time, I go to work and come home... I do yoga or workout 2-3 times per week, and try to read but end up watching sports instead. I'm finding myself needing to find what this life means, and it's fun and interesting, and slightly anxiety-inducing, since I'm used to being so busy.
And so, this blog may change a bit too - no more classwork to write about. I am going to work over the next several weeks to help this blog find it's new identity, as I am doing myself. Maybe my website will change, maybe I'll do more to integrate the two. Maybe I'll try to connect my blog to my work, or the blog at work that I facilitate. It's an exciting time of which I need to take advantage - but truly, taking some time off the last month has been rejuvenating, motivating, and much needed.
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Sunday, December 2, 2012
What really matters - past to present
Finals time! The next couple of weeks will be dedicated to the final semester push to finish graduate school. It's hard to believe the end of the road is so near... five semesters of studying, paper writing, reading, and learning are about to culminate into a goal I set out to achieve three years ago.
Three years ago, in December 2009, I was studying for the GRE, transitioning jobs back to the UM library (while consulting for my previous employer), gathering letters of recommendation for my graduate school applications, filling out the applications, and writing numerous essays. I remember at the time feeling so much stress and pressure, because my future aspirations hinged on my acceptance to the University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI). My work then paid off, and I'm starting to feel the weight of the past three years of challenging and meaningful school work, paired with working in professional positions, lifting. It's starting to feel like I really will have fully accomplished the goals I set for myself.
People ask me what I'm going to do when I'm done - with those weekends and evenings free for taking care of "real life things" (and not having to squeeze them in when I can get to them) and whatever else I want. I want to concentrate on becoming great at the amazing job I have, do a lot more yoga, read books for pleasure (my book club will appreciate that I don't simply show up for the good company), indulge in the pile of US Weekly magazines that has grown tremendously since August (it's my guilty pleasure), learn to cook(?), and so much more.
But most of all, I'm excited to spend more time on the things that really matter... the friends and family whom I've barely seen and who have supported me so well over the past three years. Without them, I wouldn't have been able to accomplish my goals, and so while the time to relax and think will be nice, I can't wait to support them in their endeavors... or just enjoy spending time with them.
Three years ago, in December 2009, I was studying for the GRE, transitioning jobs back to the UM library (while consulting for my previous employer), gathering letters of recommendation for my graduate school applications, filling out the applications, and writing numerous essays. I remember at the time feeling so much stress and pressure, because my future aspirations hinged on my acceptance to the University of Michigan School of Information (UMSI). My work then paid off, and I'm starting to feel the weight of the past three years of challenging and meaningful school work, paired with working in professional positions, lifting. It's starting to feel like I really will have fully accomplished the goals I set for myself.
People ask me what I'm going to do when I'm done - with those weekends and evenings free for taking care of "real life things" (and not having to squeeze them in when I can get to them) and whatever else I want. I want to concentrate on becoming great at the amazing job I have, do a lot more yoga, read books for pleasure (my book club will appreciate that I don't simply show up for the good company), indulge in the pile of US Weekly magazines that has grown tremendously since August (it's my guilty pleasure), learn to cook(?), and so much more.
But most of all, I'm excited to spend more time on the things that really matter... the friends and family whom I've barely seen and who have supported me so well over the past three years. Without them, I wouldn't have been able to accomplish my goals, and so while the time to relax and think will be nice, I can't wait to support them in their endeavors... or just enjoy spending time with them.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Feeling thankful today
With the Thanksgiving holiday right around the corner, I'm feeling particularly thankful today...
- To my family for all of their support and love during the last two and a half years (and my whole life!)
- To my husband who yesterday cleaned the whole house and did all of the laundry and brings me to work or class everyday and cooks for me and has helped keep my day-to-day life happening
- To my friends for putting up with me saying "sorry, I can't" because I'm too busy doing homework or working - and still being totally awesome
- To my past co-workers at the UM Library for teaching me so much about service, research, technology, teaching, and professionalism
- To my current co-workers who are some of the most positive and supportive people I've met
- To my former classmates at UMSI from whom I learned so much and am glad to still know!
- To my current classmates at the School of Ed whom I've been lucky to get to know better this semester
- To myself for being almost done with school
- For this week - the calm before the storm of final papers
- For my life- I'm so grateful for all of the people in it and for everything I have
Wishing you and yours a fantastic Thanksgiving this week! Enjoy!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
One year ago...
Just over a year ago, on November 3, I wrote a blog post about being accepted into the Higher Education master's program at UM. At this point in 2011, I still had a semester left of my degree at the UM School of Information and my hope - as I outright stated in my blog post - was to find a job for the fall where I could work 30ish hours per week and finish my degree in Higher Ed. It's funny to see things written in the past - hopes and dreams - and realize that sometimes, they do happen.
More importantly to this reflection... Wow, how fast a year has gone! I remember sitting in my Intro to Higher Ed class and receiving the email that indicated my acceptance into the master's program. I knew I could learn a lot in a year, but little did I know how much. Between finishing my master's degree in Information, taking a semester's worth of purely higher ed classes, and starting a new job at the School of Information, I am overwhelmed and so excited with the knowledge and skills I've acquired in the last 12 months. I've learned about research, information literacy, privacy and security, non-profit and library management, student development, student affairs, recruiting, networking - and those are just the high-level buzz words. I've learned about community outreach from academic libraries, skills to facilitate technology instruction, "reference interview" best practices that transfer into my job of meeting with prospective students, how to plan large events, considered ways to interact with and support international students, and so much more...
After this semester is over (classes end one month from today!) I will cherish the chance to make meaning of all of this and consider how it has helped me professionally and personally. For now, I'm going to trek through my final four and a half weeks of school, learn as much as I can, and then, relax and reflect.
More importantly to this reflection... Wow, how fast a year has gone! I remember sitting in my Intro to Higher Ed class and receiving the email that indicated my acceptance into the master's program. I knew I could learn a lot in a year, but little did I know how much. Between finishing my master's degree in Information, taking a semester's worth of purely higher ed classes, and starting a new job at the School of Information, I am overwhelmed and so excited with the knowledge and skills I've acquired in the last 12 months. I've learned about research, information literacy, privacy and security, non-profit and library management, student development, student affairs, recruiting, networking - and those are just the high-level buzz words. I've learned about community outreach from academic libraries, skills to facilitate technology instruction, "reference interview" best practices that transfer into my job of meeting with prospective students, how to plan large events, considered ways to interact with and support international students, and so much more...
After this semester is over (classes end one month from today!) I will cherish the chance to make meaning of all of this and consider how it has helped me professionally and personally. For now, I'm going to trek through my final four and a half weeks of school, learn as much as I can, and then, relax and reflect.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
The Loop: Theory, Practice (and a bit of technology)
Funny how life works... frequently, something will come up in one part of my life, and then later that day or week will appear elsewhere. This week, that "thing" was the topic of theory and practice - and I'll add the technology part.
In my student affairs class last week, many of our readings were around the topic of how theory and practice play into each other within higher education. We learn many theories as students in higher education, but then the question is how those are used once we start to practice. Inquiries arise: how do we use theory in practice? Can we? Should we learn theory first and apply it to practice, or wait until an issue comes up to go back to the theory? (You can see how this quickly becomes a "loop"...). So, during the three hours we had to discuss this last Tuesday, our professor decided we should make a collective model of our thoughts on theory-practice. And we did... it was messy, but on the whiteboard, we took turns adding, modifying, editing a model that showed how our class thought of theory and practice, and how we thought both should be used.
I was struck by this model - it was comprehensive, slightly confusing, but surprisingly clarifying. The 11 of us really came together to create something that - while not pretty - incorporated many of the ideas of theory and practice that show how our work can and should use both theory and practice in meaningful ways. So, I took a photo of it on my iPhone, and sent it to the class. Why waste our thoughts by erasing them?
And then... in our staff meeting at work last week, the question arose... would we want to start a "book club" style group to read theoretical articles and discuss how we can use them in our practice? Why, of course! And, why not? It was so exciting to hear the same question that I was pondering in class come up in my workplace. So, I sent the photo of our model to some of my co-workers... connections being made between my theoretical learning and my practical practice.
I've realized in my short time at my job, we use theory in our practice. I've also realized that UM uses theory in its teaching and learning practices all the time. When I first started studying higher education, I wasn't sure how much there was to learn about supporting students and what goes into that. It's a lot. And it's so awesome to see theory play into practice and be able to reflect on how it's helped me become a better student and a better professional within higher education.
In my student affairs class last week, many of our readings were around the topic of how theory and practice play into each other within higher education. We learn many theories as students in higher education, but then the question is how those are used once we start to practice. Inquiries arise: how do we use theory in practice? Can we? Should we learn theory first and apply it to practice, or wait until an issue comes up to go back to the theory? (You can see how this quickly becomes a "loop"...). So, during the three hours we had to discuss this last Tuesday, our professor decided we should make a collective model of our thoughts on theory-practice. And we did... it was messy, but on the whiteboard, we took turns adding, modifying, editing a model that showed how our class thought of theory and practice, and how we thought both should be used.
I was struck by this model - it was comprehensive, slightly confusing, but surprisingly clarifying. The 11 of us really came together to create something that - while not pretty - incorporated many of the ideas of theory and practice that show how our work can and should use both theory and practice in meaningful ways. So, I took a photo of it on my iPhone, and sent it to the class. Why waste our thoughts by erasing them?
And then... in our staff meeting at work last week, the question arose... would we want to start a "book club" style group to read theoretical articles and discuss how we can use them in our practice? Why, of course! And, why not? It was so exciting to hear the same question that I was pondering in class come up in my workplace. So, I sent the photo of our model to some of my co-workers... connections being made between my theoretical learning and my practical practice.
I've realized in my short time at my job, we use theory in our practice. I've also realized that UM uses theory in its teaching and learning practices all the time. When I first started studying higher education, I wasn't sure how much there was to learn about supporting students and what goes into that. It's a lot. And it's so awesome to see theory play into practice and be able to reflect on how it's helped me become a better student and a better professional within higher education.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Fall Break
The University of Michigan, each fall, gives students two days off from class for fall break. Fall break happens around the middle of October, before midterms, and provides students a time to relax or catch up.
Even with a packed schedule, having six hours less of class time and the additional hours of reading for those two classes over two days allows me a bit of a mental break. It also means that the semester is nearly half over (what?!) and that my time transitioning to a full-time employee is nearing.
It's a strange feeling to know that my 18 1/2 years of school will be complete in less than two months. It's also refreshing knowing that my degrees have helped me land an amazing job that helps promote a school that changes the lives of its students and the world. I'll leave it at that today, giving myself a bit of a break from blogging this week, too.
Even with a packed schedule, having six hours less of class time and the additional hours of reading for those two classes over two days allows me a bit of a mental break. It also means that the semester is nearly half over (what?!) and that my time transitioning to a full-time employee is nearing.
It's a strange feeling to know that my 18 1/2 years of school will be complete in less than two months. It's also refreshing knowing that my degrees have helped me land an amazing job that helps promote a school that changes the lives of its students and the world. I'll leave it at that today, giving myself a bit of a break from blogging this week, too.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
and somehow, it all happens
Because this is a reflective blog, I oftentimes will read old posts - particularly when I'm feeling a bit overloaded and am not even sure what to begin writing. Today is one of those days. So, I looked at the posts from last year at this time, and found that my sense of capacity was feeling stretched then too. And somehow this makes me feel better, because it reminds me that everything that needs to happen will.
I always forget how long it takes to feel "settled" into a new semester, and a new job. Fall is always harder because as busy as life seems over the summer, it's not quite the same as readjusting to an influx of information and a new schedule and a calendar that is bursting at the seams.
But reading old posts reminds me that somehow, it all happens. Whatever I need to do to do it, I do. And its incredibly helpful to work with people both at my job and in my classes who are supportive, motivating, and positive people. So here's to starting week 5 of the term and still feeling a bit out of sorts. And here's to knowing that before I know it, the semester will be at mid-terms and then the end. So I'm cherishing this time of reflection, knowing that the busy weeks are good things and really, I wouldn't have it any other way.
I always forget how long it takes to feel "settled" into a new semester, and a new job. Fall is always harder because as busy as life seems over the summer, it's not quite the same as readjusting to an influx of information and a new schedule and a calendar that is bursting at the seams.
But reading old posts reminds me that somehow, it all happens. Whatever I need to do to do it, I do. And its incredibly helpful to work with people both at my job and in my classes who are supportive, motivating, and positive people. So here's to starting week 5 of the term and still feeling a bit out of sorts. And here's to knowing that before I know it, the semester will be at mid-terms and then the end. So I'm cherishing this time of reflection, knowing that the busy weeks are good things and really, I wouldn't have it any other way.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
The lessons of Convocation
Last Friday, the UM School of Information (UMSI) held its first ever Convocation. I didn't know what to expect... there was tons of work to do at the office, emails to finish before the weekend, and a busy week ahead. But as part of my position, as part of the UMSI team, and as an alumni, I attended the event.
I'd almost never been so proud to be a part of this School. The theme of Convocation, "i Will Change the World," perfectly explained where UMSI has been and where it's going. We heard from the Dean, Jeff Mackie-Mason, associate deans, faculty new and old, and a student. We learned about the work of MSI's and doctoral students, professors, and school initiatives. We heard exciting news about projects that literally are changing the world through connecting people and information via technology.
The Convocation confirmed - once again - that UMSI is an incredibly special place. It's a growing school, Information is an expanding field, and this work can, does and will improve the lives of people. Convocation spoke to me about what is important in my new position -- being part of this team and celebrating the work we do, and looking forward. And that meant that the email left in the office was put off for a couple of hours, but reminded me that if students, faculty and staff come together to learn about our collective work we can only do it better --- for the good of others. Cheers to UMSI and all that comes next!
I'd almost never been so proud to be a part of this School. The theme of Convocation, "i Will Change the World," perfectly explained where UMSI has been and where it's going. We heard from the Dean, Jeff Mackie-Mason, associate deans, faculty new and old, and a student. We learned about the work of MSI's and doctoral students, professors, and school initiatives. We heard exciting news about projects that literally are changing the world through connecting people and information via technology.
The Convocation confirmed - once again - that UMSI is an incredibly special place. It's a growing school, Information is an expanding field, and this work can, does and will improve the lives of people. Convocation spoke to me about what is important in my new position -- being part of this team and celebrating the work we do, and looking forward. And that meant that the email left in the office was put off for a couple of hours, but reminded me that if students, faculty and staff come together to learn about our collective work we can only do it better --- for the good of others. Cheers to UMSI and all that comes next!
Friday, August 17, 2012
The calm before the beautiful storm
For now, this is my last regular reference desk shift at the Hatcher Graduate Library. I expected a flood of new students asking questions, incoming faculty wandering around, a bustle of folks figuring things out... instead, it is quiet. It feels like the calm before the storm, but its the storm that is needed to re-energize us and propel us forward into the new year.
That's one thing I love about being involved in higher education as both a student and an employee. I love that the school year is so busy you don't have time to think but yet everything is productive and meaningful. I love that when summer comes, ambitions to do the projects that get put on the back-burner are high, but that the summer is too short to possibly complete all of them... and we need a small break in the action that is academia.
I love that when August hits, email ramps up, orientation tours start, and planning for fall accelerates. I love that come late August, the temperatures start to cool down (or heat up) and you can begin to see the hint of color in the leaves. By the time September 1 hits, the streets are closed for student move-in (and you can't drive anywhere) and the summertime freedom of taking our town back from the students is no longer a reality.
But what I love most is that the seasons change, they happen, and they're all wonderful. As much as I look forward to summer, I look forward to fall. And I'm lucky to have this time to appreciate and reflect on this transition, because the closer we get to the Tuesday after Labor Day, the busier I'll get. And I love that.
That's one thing I love about being involved in higher education as both a student and an employee. I love that the school year is so busy you don't have time to think but yet everything is productive and meaningful. I love that when summer comes, ambitions to do the projects that get put on the back-burner are high, but that the summer is too short to possibly complete all of them... and we need a small break in the action that is academia.
I love that when August hits, email ramps up, orientation tours start, and planning for fall accelerates. I love that come late August, the temperatures start to cool down (or heat up) and you can begin to see the hint of color in the leaves. By the time September 1 hits, the streets are closed for student move-in (and you can't drive anywhere) and the summertime freedom of taking our town back from the students is no longer a reality.
But what I love most is that the seasons change, they happen, and they're all wonderful. As much as I look forward to summer, I look forward to fall. And I'm lucky to have this time to appreciate and reflect on this transition, because the closer we get to the Tuesday after Labor Day, the busier I'll get. And I love that.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Final Workshop
Today I will co-instruct my last workshop at the UM Library. It's hard to believe that just over a year ago today was my first Word for Dissertation session. I wrote about that experience on August 5, 2011 and here it is August 10, 2012; boy does time fly!
When I first started teaching, I was much less confident than I am now. Now, I'm ready to go in and show graduate students the best ways to format their dissertations, in a way that will make the process easier for them. I'm comfortable working with another co-instructor and watching her teach the workshop in a different way than I did. It's great to know that there is someone else stepping in who can help mentor the person who may become their co-instructor.
I'll take my instructing technology experiences, and try to use the skills I've learned in a transferable way. I'll know that staying excited and upbeat during sessions or presentations is critical; that making the participants feel comfortable asking questions and following along; that everyone learns and processes information differently. It will be valuable to have experience instructing on a variety of things from technology, to databases, to freshmen orientation. And, it is wonderful knowing that I can always re-connect with co-instructors for tips and feedback.
Instruction has been a very interesting and fun part of my appointment at the library. It's something I've truly enjoyed and hope to do more of in different ways in my next position. And it's something that I've been fortunate enough to have time to reflect upon with mentors and colleagues who are constructive and encouraging. So for now, here's the last library instruction post... thanks for following this piece of the blog!
When I first started teaching, I was much less confident than I am now. Now, I'm ready to go in and show graduate students the best ways to format their dissertations, in a way that will make the process easier for them. I'm comfortable working with another co-instructor and watching her teach the workshop in a different way than I did. It's great to know that there is someone else stepping in who can help mentor the person who may become their co-instructor.
I'll take my instructing technology experiences, and try to use the skills I've learned in a transferable way. I'll know that staying excited and upbeat during sessions or presentations is critical; that making the participants feel comfortable asking questions and following along; that everyone learns and processes information differently. It will be valuable to have experience instructing on a variety of things from technology, to databases, to freshmen orientation. And, it is wonderful knowing that I can always re-connect with co-instructors for tips and feedback.
Instruction has been a very interesting and fun part of my appointment at the library. It's something I've truly enjoyed and hope to do more of in different ways in my next position. And it's something that I've been fortunate enough to have time to reflect upon with mentors and colleagues who are constructive and encouraging. So for now, here's the last library instruction post... thanks for following this piece of the blog!
Friday, August 3, 2012
Everything I want to write, I can't
I'll use the rain analogy again for this week, even though we've had another dry spell. When it rains, it pours. And unfortunately, at this time, I can't share any details about the weather.
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Ok.. enough of the vague comparisons to precipitation. But seriously, when life happens, it happens. It's weird that way. And right now, it is happening. Like, everything. Personal, professional, future... lots of it is on the move right now. And I can't say a word about it.
It's weird how life happens. Everything I want to write about, I can't. Until probably next week. Maybe.
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All I really know is that I am cleaning out my office of two years today. One more step in this crazy transition. Question is... what to keep and what to throw away (recycle)? What notes do I need from the last 24 months? What will be useful in the future? More inquisitions lead to fewer answers.
And that's ok. That's my my life right now, as it's happening - and it certainty is...
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P.S. I promise in a few weeks this blog will become more substantive again :)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Ok.. enough of the vague comparisons to precipitation. But seriously, when life happens, it happens. It's weird that way. And right now, it is happening. Like, everything. Personal, professional, future... lots of it is on the move right now. And I can't say a word about it.
It's weird how life happens. Everything I want to write about, I can't. Until probably next week. Maybe.
---------------------------------------------------------------
All I really know is that I am cleaning out my office of two years today. One more step in this crazy transition. Question is... what to keep and what to throw away (recycle)? What notes do I need from the last 24 months? What will be useful in the future? More inquisitions lead to fewer answers.
And that's ok. That's my my life right now, as it's happening - and it certainty is...
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P.S. I promise in a few weeks this blog will become more substantive again :)
Friday, July 20, 2012
raining and relief
It finally rained yesterday. Any readers in the Midwest (and so it seems based on articles like these about the drought from the Weather Channel, other readers too) will understand the gravity of that statement. It finally rained! We've experienced incredibly hot, dry weather so far this summer and so rain yesterday was a huge deal.
And, as they say, when it rains it pours. That it did. It also brought some much needed relief to some of our smaller plants. And to me.
Now you're saying, "this isn't a blog about the weather..." however rain and relief very much relate to my post on the Unknown last week. It seemed that pressure was mounting on many levels - environmentally and mentally. After the rain yesterday - while nothing in my future is figured out for sure - I actually feel better. I woke up this morning to bright, clear blue skies, crispy cooler air. Life is kind of "pouring" right now, but with the cooler weather, it's literally easier to breathe.
This week, I'm thankful for the opportunities coming my way, and grateful for the relief surrounding my life. I'll take a break next week and be back in August. Until then, wishing you relief in yours.
And, as they say, when it rains it pours. That it did. It also brought some much needed relief to some of our smaller plants. And to me.
Now you're saying, "this isn't a blog about the weather..." however rain and relief very much relate to my post on the Unknown last week. It seemed that pressure was mounting on many levels - environmentally and mentally. After the rain yesterday - while nothing in my future is figured out for sure - I actually feel better. I woke up this morning to bright, clear blue skies, crispy cooler air. Life is kind of "pouring" right now, but with the cooler weather, it's literally easier to breathe.
This week, I'm thankful for the opportunities coming my way, and grateful for the relief surrounding my life. I'll take a break next week and be back in August. Until then, wishing you relief in yours.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Unknown
When the end of a journey is near, various feelings move fluidly day by day and week by week.
My position ends August 31, and I'm moving into the unknown. All I know about Sept. 1 is that I will be starting my final semester of school (ever) on Tuesday, September 4 and will complete my Master of Arts in Higher Education in December. And that's it.
The librarian in me is a planner and organizer. I like to know what's going on, when it's happening, and the extent to which I'm involved (anyone who has seen my calendar can attest to this). But that isn't always realistic and I'm realizing that I can't always be in control. And it's stressing me out.
However, this is a great learning and growing experience for professionalism and life in general. In the past I've been able to control things; I controlled my schedule, the amount of time I put into work and projects, and upcoming life stuff seemed to be in place. Now, my fall and beyond are up in the air and I'm struggling to relax, even though I know that most likely, everything will turn out just fine.
This is a great learning experience because there will be many times in my future where things are out of my control. I won't be able to control my schedule, my work, and life stuff that happens. And I need to still be able to be productive, deal with it, and have a good, positive (and less anxious) attitude.
I've been incredibly lucky in life so far, and this experience (as mere and slight as it is) helps put things into perspective - whatever my situation, I've got it good. The "issues" which I'm experiencing are minor in terms of the world and what others go through every day. So while I don't know where I'll be Sept. 1, I can trust that it will be fine. And I keep telling myself that, and where I will be will probably be better than fine - because it will be a learning experience from which I can grow professionally and personally. So that's my new attitude and I'm sticking to it. :)
My position ends August 31, and I'm moving into the unknown. All I know about Sept. 1 is that I will be starting my final semester of school (ever) on Tuesday, September 4 and will complete my Master of Arts in Higher Education in December. And that's it.
The librarian in me is a planner and organizer. I like to know what's going on, when it's happening, and the extent to which I'm involved (anyone who has seen my calendar can attest to this). But that isn't always realistic and I'm realizing that I can't always be in control. And it's stressing me out.
However, this is a great learning and growing experience for professionalism and life in general. In the past I've been able to control things; I controlled my schedule, the amount of time I put into work and projects, and upcoming life stuff seemed to be in place. Now, my fall and beyond are up in the air and I'm struggling to relax, even though I know that most likely, everything will turn out just fine.
This is a great learning experience because there will be many times in my future where things are out of my control. I won't be able to control my schedule, my work, and life stuff that happens. And I need to still be able to be productive, deal with it, and have a good, positive (and less anxious) attitude.
I've been incredibly lucky in life so far, and this experience (as mere and slight as it is) helps put things into perspective - whatever my situation, I've got it good. The "issues" which I'm experiencing are minor in terms of the world and what others go through every day. So while I don't know where I'll be Sept. 1, I can trust that it will be fine. And I keep telling myself that, and where I will be will probably be better than fine - because it will be a learning experience from which I can grow professionally and personally. So that's my new attitude and I'm sticking to it. :)
Friday, July 6, 2012
Instructional Transition
Back from a break... relaxed and ready for what's next... when I figure that out :)
As for now, since instruction is one of my few duties left at the library this summer, it's something I may write about more often than not.
As I'm sure I've said before, I've learned that instruction is a continual learning process and there is always something new to take away from the experience at any stage. And now I am in a different phase. Because I am transitioning out of my two-year term-limited position in August, there is a gap to fill in what I teach at the library. An incoming second-year School of Information student showed interest in teaching, so she will be helping to instruct some of the Word for Dissertation workshops that I taught over the past 12 or so months.
This puts me in a different position; having been in the same situation as she just over a year ago, I am now observing her and providing advice and encouragement before her first workshop next week. This experience reminds me about the importance of observation (as noted in previous posts) and the need for constant reflection.
I learned a lot from observing my new co-instructor's teaching style. Having never instructed the class, I was struck by her calmness, her straight-forwardness, and her no-frills approach to teaching dissertation formatting. Her style made me consider something new: formatting dissertations really is a no-frills thing. It is an important, yet not fun part of the dissertation process; why try to make it more than it is? Of course there is an argument for trying to make it fun too, but seeing this teaching style was a good reminder that there are indeed many approaches to instruction.
As for now, since instruction is one of my few duties left at the library this summer, it's something I may write about more often than not.
As I'm sure I've said before, I've learned that instruction is a continual learning process and there is always something new to take away from the experience at any stage. And now I am in a different phase. Because I am transitioning out of my two-year term-limited position in August, there is a gap to fill in what I teach at the library. An incoming second-year School of Information student showed interest in teaching, so she will be helping to instruct some of the Word for Dissertation workshops that I taught over the past 12 or so months.
This puts me in a different position; having been in the same situation as she just over a year ago, I am now observing her and providing advice and encouragement before her first workshop next week. This experience reminds me about the importance of observation (as noted in previous posts) and the need for constant reflection.
I learned a lot from observing my new co-instructor's teaching style. Having never instructed the class, I was struck by her calmness, her straight-forwardness, and her no-frills approach to teaching dissertation formatting. Her style made me consider something new: formatting dissertations really is a no-frills thing. It is an important, yet not fun part of the dissertation process; why try to make it more than it is? Of course there is an argument for trying to make it fun too, but seeing this teaching style was a good reminder that there are indeed many approaches to instruction.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Settling into the second half of summer
We never know what comes next, but time off can help bring peace and renewed enthusiasm for the future. Here's to hoping the second half of summer is as exciting and invigorating as the first.
That said, I'm off blogging again this week until July. Wishing you all a restful, relaxing week and Independence Day.
That said, I'm off blogging again this week until July. Wishing you all a restful, relaxing week and Independence Day.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Instruction: Back to the beginning
It's been a while since I wrote about instruction, which was one of my first major blog topics (you can see some of my older posts on my first instruction experience, the value of observation, some overall reflections and and my most recent instructional post).
And the one thing I've really learned about instruction is that there is always more to learn. Just yesterday I had yet another new experience... developing a workshop outline from the ground-up by myself and teaching it. (Well, I didn't develop the outline just yesterday, but the instructional session was yesterday.)
The University of Michigan has recently begun officially using Google Apps, which includes Google Docs. I've not written much about Google, but if you know me personally, you know that I am kind of obsessed with Google for work and personal productivity. I make spreadsheets and docs for *everything* (even my book club) and have started a Google Calendar with my girlfriends for easier scheduling purposes. That said, when I was asked to develop and teach this workshop, it was exciting.
Then I sat down to do it. I know Google Docs pretty well, simply because I use them. So I decided to "go with what I know" and not make the workshop too structured, because the best way to learn to use Google Docs is to do it. I wanted to teach the various features and options within Docs while allowing the workshop participants to play. I had feedback from my supervisors, and a friend who had taken a Docs workshop a couple of weeks back. So I felt fairly confident that the workshop I planned was on track.
But now here's the thing. I think it went well. It was so difficult to tell. When teaching Word for Dissertation - a workshop with a specific purpose where you can tell if people are following along - it's a bit easier. I never expect workshop participants to walk away remembering everything but it's good to know they learned something. In the Google Docs workshop yesterday, people were asking questions, playing around with Docs while I was talking (which was great!), and some stayed after to ask questions. So I think it went well.
But how to tell? Just another challenge in instruction. :)
And the one thing I've really learned about instruction is that there is always more to learn. Just yesterday I had yet another new experience... developing a workshop outline from the ground-up by myself and teaching it. (Well, I didn't develop the outline just yesterday, but the instructional session was yesterday.)
The University of Michigan has recently begun officially using Google Apps, which includes Google Docs. I've not written much about Google, but if you know me personally, you know that I am kind of obsessed with Google for work and personal productivity. I make spreadsheets and docs for *everything* (even my book club) and have started a Google Calendar with my girlfriends for easier scheduling purposes. That said, when I was asked to develop and teach this workshop, it was exciting.
Then I sat down to do it. I know Google Docs pretty well, simply because I use them. So I decided to "go with what I know" and not make the workshop too structured, because the best way to learn to use Google Docs is to do it. I wanted to teach the various features and options within Docs while allowing the workshop participants to play. I had feedback from my supervisors, and a friend who had taken a Docs workshop a couple of weeks back. So I felt fairly confident that the workshop I planned was on track.
But now here's the thing. I think it went well. It was so difficult to tell. When teaching Word for Dissertation - a workshop with a specific purpose where you can tell if people are following along - it's a bit easier. I never expect workshop participants to walk away remembering everything but it's good to know they learned something. In the Google Docs workshop yesterday, people were asking questions, playing around with Docs while I was talking (which was great!), and some stayed after to ask questions. So I think it went well.
But how to tell? Just another challenge in instruction. :)
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Time off...
One of the things about working hard is that it's hard to find time for a break. Momentum builds, projects beat on, and the world still turns. But that's why summer (particularly in Michigan, when our warm months are so few) is a good time to simply s-t-o-p.
June is my vacation month this year so I'll be gone a few different times and will not allow myself to check email (as often), worry about what's ahead, or even write this blog. I'm going to unplug as much as possible, and relish in the beauty of the Midwest and U.P.
I'll enjoy my break, ready to come back and commit to the rest of my work this summer and prepare for the fall. Wishing all of my readers some relaxation during this beautiful as well.
June is my vacation month this year so I'll be gone a few different times and will not allow myself to check email (as often), worry about what's ahead, or even write this blog. I'm going to unplug as much as possible, and relish in the beauty of the Midwest and U.P.
I'll enjoy my break, ready to come back and commit to the rest of my work this summer and prepare for the fall. Wishing all of my readers some relaxation during this beautiful as well.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
What kind of blog is this?
Blogs are everywhere. Blogs with images, blogs with news commentary, blogs about research...
Today, I received an inadvertent email (not directly questioning my blog) that did make me question my blog. What is the goal? Why did I create it? What kind of blog is it?
When I started blogging, I blogged for a class which required me to reflect on readings from the course and the activities in which we participated during the sessions. When I started blogging on my own, I didn't really think about what type of blog this would be except that I knew I wanted to document my journey of completing my master's degrees and my experiences at my job. I never considered anything else.
Today's email made me realize that frequent consideration about what I do - and do publicly - is important. I'm still fine with blogging my experiences - because I am still making my way through school and figuring out my professional life - but the email made me think about how this blog can change and evolve. When I do become a professional, I don't just have to blog about what I am doing, and hope that others find it interesting - I can blog about what I see on the outside, and tie my experiences in with that. I can review articles and research and discuss how I'm doing, or not doing, what the research suggests. So maybe I will.
But today's email really just gave me a chance to reflect on the purpose of this blog. I know what it is now, but the email reminded me that growth is important and that it doesn't have to be this way forever.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Enriching Scholarship: A Transformative Week for Instruction and Reflection
Before I started writing this, I reviewed my post about last year's Enriching Scholarship session. Just a quick review, Enriching Scholarship is a, "week of free workshops, discussions, and seminars has become an annual
event each May for instructional faculty and staff, and showcases over
120 sessions that address the role technology plays in fostering
engaging and effective teaching, learning, and research"(http://www.teachtech.umich.edu).
Last year, I considered teaching The New Basics: Computing 101 to be my first official instructional experience. I wrote that after the session, we realized we needed to tweak the workshop because there was too much content for too little time. So in between last year and this year, my co-instructor and I taught a Web Basics class, which went pretty well. This year for Enriching Scholarship, however, we decided to not only teach The New Computer Basics: Understanding the Web but also The New Computer Basics: PC Desktop Computing. The Understanding the Web session had several participants, many of whom seemed to appreciate the information we provided about clearing your "cache" and downloading images. And the few participants in the PC Computing class appeared to enjoy learning about how right-clicking can make moving around the computer easier and more efficient.
In my post from May 2011, I wrote about practicing instruction prior to actually instructing. Many of my other posts over the last year have covered this as well. So now might be the proper time to reflect. To start, I'm more comfortable teaching - especially something I've already taught. Secondly, I've become better at being patient while instructing - I've learned the goal is not to get everything done (especially in computer basics workshops!) but to teach at a pace that is both effective and appropriate for the group's learning processes. Participant's learning is the goal!
A third "lesson learned" is that I still get nervous teaching something I've never taught before, but that I've learned how to combat this. Prior to the PC Basics workshop, I spent hours preparing and getting materials ready and arrived much too early the day-of to make sure the computers were loaded with the proper documents and that the handouts were printed and correct. But through this I also learned that that helped me to feel more comfortable with the instruction. Instead of stressing, I built that time into my work schedule and was feeling prepared to teach when the time came.
Most of all, instruction is a process. Having taught the Web Basics three times now, we're still finding things to change and pieces of the workshop to adapt, and that is OK. In fact, it makes instruction fun because I've realized that nothing is perfect and that we can always do better for our participants and ourselves. The process of instructing is part of the learning process for us all (I always learn something new while teaching) - and having the opportunity to do both at the same time is something for which I'm grateful.
Last year, I considered teaching The New Basics: Computing 101 to be my first official instructional experience. I wrote that after the session, we realized we needed to tweak the workshop because there was too much content for too little time. So in between last year and this year, my co-instructor and I taught a Web Basics class, which went pretty well. This year for Enriching Scholarship, however, we decided to not only teach The New Computer Basics: Understanding the Web but also The New Computer Basics: PC Desktop Computing. The Understanding the Web session had several participants, many of whom seemed to appreciate the information we provided about clearing your "cache" and downloading images. And the few participants in the PC Computing class appeared to enjoy learning about how right-clicking can make moving around the computer easier and more efficient.
In my post from May 2011, I wrote about practicing instruction prior to actually instructing. Many of my other posts over the last year have covered this as well. So now might be the proper time to reflect. To start, I'm more comfortable teaching - especially something I've already taught. Secondly, I've become better at being patient while instructing - I've learned the goal is not to get everything done (especially in computer basics workshops!) but to teach at a pace that is both effective and appropriate for the group's learning processes. Participant's learning is the goal!
A third "lesson learned" is that I still get nervous teaching something I've never taught before, but that I've learned how to combat this. Prior to the PC Basics workshop, I spent hours preparing and getting materials ready and arrived much too early the day-of to make sure the computers were loaded with the proper documents and that the handouts were printed and correct. But through this I also learned that that helped me to feel more comfortable with the instruction. Instead of stressing, I built that time into my work schedule and was feeling prepared to teach when the time came.
Most of all, instruction is a process. Having taught the Web Basics three times now, we're still finding things to change and pieces of the workshop to adapt, and that is OK. In fact, it makes instruction fun because I've realized that nothing is perfect and that we can always do better for our participants and ourselves. The process of instructing is part of the learning process for us all (I always learn something new while teaching) - and having the opportunity to do both at the same time is something for which I'm grateful.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Transition and Time Management
The transition from school-to-work full time happened. Quickly. Suddenly, all the "school stuff" was over, and the "work stuff" became priority. Which is good.
I started this week thinking that there would be so much time to prepare for my practice presentation about the Detroit Center this week, before teaching two sessions at Enriching Scholarship next week, before my real presentation the following week (oh, and the other presentation at MLA Technology and Trends that week, too). Somehow, 40 hours at work doesn't seem to be enough. In fact, I did "home work" this week - practicing and adjusting presentations.
So my thoughts today revolve around those very ideas... transitioning from being busy all the time, to being busy at work, while trying to manage life and work. Now, I don't need to be busy working all the time - and don't think I should be. But I do need to transition to making the most of the time I am working, and learning to know what to prioritize over these next few weeks.
I imagine this issue will arise again in December when I graduate from the School of Education and (hopefully) transition into a full-time job. Managing 12+ hours of classes, 20+ hours of work, homework, and life stuff is quite different than managing 40 hours of work and life stuff. I've done it before, but I realized this morning that it's a different way of thinking and prioritizing. I think part of it is that when there is far too much to do, I just do it. When I have time to do other things (relax a bit?), I need to focus more on the time management part of my life.
So, here's to working through that the next couple of weeks - practically and mentally. I need to realize that I shouldn't work all the time (as happened January-April), but I do need to consider how much I need to work on the important upcoming instruction sessions and presentations and how to manage that time. Any tips are welcome :)
I started this week thinking that there would be so much time to prepare for my practice presentation about the Detroit Center this week, before teaching two sessions at Enriching Scholarship next week, before my real presentation the following week (oh, and the other presentation at MLA Technology and Trends that week, too). Somehow, 40 hours at work doesn't seem to be enough. In fact, I did "home work" this week - practicing and adjusting presentations.
So my thoughts today revolve around those very ideas... transitioning from being busy all the time, to being busy at work, while trying to manage life and work. Now, I don't need to be busy working all the time - and don't think I should be. But I do need to transition to making the most of the time I am working, and learning to know what to prioritize over these next few weeks.
I imagine this issue will arise again in December when I graduate from the School of Education and (hopefully) transition into a full-time job. Managing 12+ hours of classes, 20+ hours of work, homework, and life stuff is quite different than managing 40 hours of work and life stuff. I've done it before, but I realized this morning that it's a different way of thinking and prioritizing. I think part of it is that when there is far too much to do, I just do it. When I have time to do other things (relax a bit?), I need to focus more on the time management part of my life.
So, here's to working through that the next couple of weeks - practically and mentally. I need to realize that I shouldn't work all the time (as happened January-April), but I do need to consider how much I need to work on the important upcoming instruction sessions and presentations and how to manage that time. Any tips are welcome :)
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