Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Positives Journal

Thanksgiving is a good time to start a "positives journal". Try each day to write down several things that are good--little reasons to be thankful.

This morning I noticed the beginning of some blossoms on a little plant that I nearly threw away a year ago. Last year we were gifted with an azalea plant which was gloriously in full bloom. It became a premature dry twig because we had forgotten to water it for several days. My inclination was to toss it in the garbage can. Fortunately, I didn't.

Faithfully, we have watered it and placed it in a sunny window. Slowly, it began to sprout some green leaves so I gave it a little plant food. I was happy that it was green, but never imagined that it would ever bloom again.

How good I felt this morning when I noticed three tiny pink buds beginning to form. Is this something to get excited about? Yes, it was for me. It was one more reminder of the power of nurturing and the wonder of life.

Be thankful for the little things you experience and be grateful to be alive.

Monday, November 24, 2008

To My Students

Tomorrow we will have a guest speaker who is a psychologist. I have asked him (Dr. Basil Augustine) to talk about "The Psychology of Winning Scholarships". We will meet in the classroom.

After tomorrow there are only four class sessions left. Please make your appointments to have your portfolio checked. Unless it is complete and in PERFECT order, I don't want to look at it. Your final grade is weighed heavily on the portfolio.

In addition to the portfolio, there will be two more exams and your class presentation.

Accepting an Award

More than likely, you will be invited to a luncheon or dinner as the recipient of a scholarship. The interview committe has selected you as the winner and they want to show you off.

Now is the time to start thinking about what you will wear and how you will present yourself. The way you look is important, but it doesn't mean that you have to spend a lot of money.

If you have ever ventured into a consignment shop or even a thrift store, you will know that there are some very nice clothes and accessories available for affordable prices.

Dress appropriately for the occasion. Now is not the time for jeans or anything provocative. It is better to err on the side of dressing conservatively--remember the key word is "appropriately". If in doubt check with a counselor or a friend whose judgment you trust.

You will be expected to say a few words. It doesn't have to be long. Please acknowledge the organization and anyone in the audience who has helped you with your application. Speak from the heart and be real.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Appearance of Success

"Nothing succeeds like the appearance of success."

Christopher Lasch
(American Social Critic)

Interviews & the Image You Project

Soon you will be receiving responses from your scholarship applications. If you are a finalist, many organizations will invite you to an interview. Not only is it critical to remember what you wrote on your personal statement, but you should do some research on the group that is offering the scholarship. Know their purpose and philosophy. Why was their organization created?

The way you dress and the image that you project is very important. Dress as though you are being interviewed for a professional job. Put away the jeans and skimpy spaghetti strap tops. It is best to lean toward the conservative side. Cover any tattoos; remove obvious piercings; and minimize unusual hair coloring.

Body language is very telling. Walk in with a smile; give a strong handshake; make eye contact; and express enthusiasm. You must be yourself, but be your best and positive self.

Remember, you want to be selected for their award. They are looking for a good investment for their money and someone who will be a future leader in the community. Like it or not, people do judge you by the way you look and act.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

To My Students

Today is a lab day in the Career Center. See you there.

Eve-Marie

Are You Motivated?

Be sure that you are enrolling in college for the right reasons. Unless you are motivated, the most prestigious school with the highest tuition will not provide the education that you are seeking.

If you are pursuing your passion, and not just hoping for a high paying career, nothing can stop you from being successful. You must be following your dream and not what others tell you that you should do. You are the only one who can prioritize your interests.