It really is the little things…

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I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again: Life is all about the little things. The little things that make you happy, that bring joy to your life. It’s so incredibly important to stop and to recognize them when they come our way…especially during finals.

Finals are a time of darkness, of pure misery.

Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a little but seriously it’s a bleak and horrible time. It’s so easy to get lost in all the work, all the studying (or to just get lost in the library because that happened to me today too). Thus, when there is a ray of hope – even when it’s just a dull glimmer – it needs to be acknowledged.

One of the things I love most about Albion is that there is always a glimmer. Whether is a free smoothie from the sweet guy at the Eat Shop, a massage during Stress Free Zone, or the smell of trees in bloom when you’re walking through the Quad. All of these things should be appreciated. We (literally) should stop and smell the flowers.

Tonight, this message was reinforced. Another random act of kindness reinforced my faith in humanity and reconfirmed my decision to come to Albion. In my mailbox I got an anonymous letter that not only made me smile but also made me remember how phenomenal my friends here are and how lucky I am to be in such a positive place.

Above is a picture of the note. The front is Bill Murray telling me I’m awesome. The back says “Hi! Remember that you are a beautiful human being and you can achieve anything you want! Don’t stress too much about finals and have a great day!” Also, there is a drawing of a rainbow.

I’m BulletProof

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I’m BulletProof. What does that mean? I’m a fan of the band who’s looking forward to their future successes. Having already been played on the WLBN (Albion College Radio) show that I co-host, as well as on my personal iPod, it’s no surprise that I wanted to hear the band live (again). So, through the Student Senate Pet Project program, I found a way for all of the students on campus to hear this band’s talent.

BulletProof’s logo on my car.

“BulletProof” was formed on January 16, 2012 as a hard rock band from the metro-Detroit area. Guitarist Ryan Ryngaert and drummer Joe Rubino played in other bands together before starting BulletProof. After a few months in progress, Vince Rubino (Josh’s brother) joined the band as the bassist. Their search for a frontman proved successful by landing Josh Coates’ vocal style. How many other rock bands can say that their frontman is a classically trained opera singer?

Vince Rubino (L), bassist. Joe Rubino, drummer. Josh Coates, frontman. Ryan Ryngaert (R), lead guitar.

On Thursday April 11, 2013, BulletProof made their way to Albion, MI for a concert that would draw more attention than ever imagined. The weather was rainy, but that didn’t stop the band. Playing in the Kellogg Center Stack, they drew the crowd in from outside, as passersby walking through the Quad could hear the concert.

As the night went on, the concert even drew the attention of a Campus Safety officer who initially was checking out the sheer volume of sound coming from the Kellogg Center but then stayed and listened to the remainder of the concert.

Josh Coates, frontman, and Joe Rubino, drummer, during a particularly powerful song.

The band played some of their original music, songs like “Walk Away” and “Until We Break” but they also played covers of genre-similar music, such as Semisonic’s “Closing Time” and Ed Sheeran’s “A-Team”. After the nearly two hour concert ended, the band graciously packed up their equipment (which took nearly two hours to set up and sound check), thanking Senate for the opportunity to play on campus, and headed on their way back home.

Friday was just another normal day for the band, as after an all-night concert and hour-plus drive home, the band members had classes and jobs to go to as part of their education at Wayne State University. I’m certainly looking forward to the next time they’re able to make it to campus!

Elkin Isaac

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As students all over campus are running around preparing for their Elkin Isaac presentations tomorrow, I’m sitting here, writing to you and chuckling.

What is Elkin Isaac? It’s a research symposium that honors “excellent student research, scholarship, and creative activity.” It’s in its 24th year this year. The participants are nominated by their faculty sponsors (or advisers) after having participated in independent research (through FURSCA, a thesis project, or departmental research) that results in the significant synthesis of new knowledge. The research must have been performed under the direct supervision of an Albion College faculty member, or in a College-approved off-campus program to qualify.

I’m sure you’re wondering if I’m presenting or not — and the answer is yes, I am. However, unlike my traditional last-minute tendencies, I’m actually ready already. If you’re on campus, I’m presenting at 9:45am tomorrow in Norris 101, and I’m really excited to be participating.

Beyond Elkin Isaac, there’s much more going on this week at Albion that contributes to the experience that is a research symposium. There are speakers, both tonight and tomorrow. Tomorrow is the day of Honors Convocation as well, honoring seniors prior to graduation, new Omicron Delta Kappa initiates, Students’ Choice professors of the year, and other awards.

Albion College: The Vagina Monologues

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March is the national month for women awareness. Here at Albion College, POWER, a feminist group on our campus, decided to celebrate an important part of womanhood: the vagina. The vagina symbolizes female empowerment. It’s a paradox because it can mean pain and/or pleasure. 

So we as a student body presented The Vagina Monologues — expressing diverse perspectives on how the vagina is viewed and, ultimately, respected. This event was successful and the rest of our student body was comfortable enough to enjoy themselves completely.

My KC Box

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Snail-mail.

Sounds dull, doesn’t it? Papers coming to a metal box every day (well, except Saturdays and Sundays) that you have to retrieve on a semi-regular basis. Sometimes bills. Occasionally a greeting card or two. The rare package. Mostly junk, right?

Wrong. For me, my KC box is one of the best parts of being an Albion student. Every student here on campus receives a “PO box” for purposes of receiving mail. They keep the same box throughout their time at Albion and it provides a sense of familiarity.

Being the fashion-forward woman that I am, I have subscriptions to five different fashion magazines (Allure, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, and ELLE). As an academic, I also maintain a subscription to Time for purposes of keeping somewhat current on the news. I don’t even pay for the subscriptions either, as they were all either gifts or contest winnings. These magazines provide small joys for me throughout the month, as they rarely arrive in my KC box all on the same day.

While I do still receive credit card bills, bank statements, accrued loan interest statements, and all of the other documents that the typical college student receives in the mail, I still love my KC box. My grandma usually sends me a random card or postcard every once in awhile, my sister sends me silly “thinking of you cards”, and my friends send ridiculously long letters. I’ve even received letters from friends at basic training or deployed abroad during my time at Albion.

It’s safe to say that my KC box is cultured and even well versed in world matters – is yours?

What Albion Can Do For You – Part II

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A couple weeks ago, I told you about the interview process I was going through for a position with Huron Technologies, a company in Leslie, MI. As you may remember, I landed the initial interview during my experience at Job Pursuit in February and have been going through the company’s external hire process ever since.

Well, last Thursday I visited Huron Technologies on-site. I arrived early in the morning and spent my day taking assessments, going through interviews, and meeting with HT’s human resources representative to hear about benefits if hired.  Around lunchtime, the company’s president and I went out to lunch and talked about our shared interests – flying airplanes, the ocean, and furthering his company. I found out that he’s a sailor and that he’s built his own sailboat. He knew a little bit of information about my hometown, as did a couple of the other employees. A couple of the employees are also Albion alumni!

When we returned from lunch, I had an opportunity to review (once again) the job description for the position I had applied for and as I was reading he offered me the job. I accepted on the spot, and as of last Thursday at 2pm, I became Huron Technologies’ newest Marketing Associate (contingent on drug testing and the like).

All of this stemmed from one experience that Albion College offered me, as a junior, in preparation for my career search next year. When I came to Albion as a freshman, I had no idea that Albion prepared its students so well for the job search that they could land a full-time, salaried with benefits, position as a 19-year-old junior.

Thanks Albion!

Albion College Alumna: Hannah Mills ’12

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Ms. Mills on graduation day, May 2012.

Hannah Mills is a recent graduate of Albion College. She doubled majored in Ethnic Studies and Spanish. This wonderful young lady helped me with my transition from high school to college, and is one of my best mentors.

So when asked to do a blog on life after college, she had this to say…

Life after graduation is awesome! I am working at Bethany Christian Services as case manager for refugee transitional foster care (bet you don’t really know what that is, because I didn’t when I started). I work with Hispanic kids that have recently crossed the border (Mex/US) and I reunite then with their biological families in the U.S.  It is pretty awesome.

I speak Spanish all day everyday, so I’m pretty thankful I minored in Spanish at Albion. We are based out of Grand Rapids so I live downtown GR. There are a bunch of job openings for Spanish speaking workers so if you know of anyone, send them my way!

We here at Albion College wish you nothing but the best Hannah, and continue to follow your dreams!

Student Spotlight: Alex Bowman

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Alex Bowman is a junior majoring in Economics & Management from Jackson, Michigan.

Why did you pick Albion?

I picked Albion because it has an excellent academic reputation. Several of my high school classmates had connections with the campus. I also did not want to pick a large university and just be a small fish in a big pond.

What do you love about Albion?

Meeting one on one with my professors is one thing I truly love about Albion. As a freshman, I enjoyed having class at Wes Dick’s home where he treated us like family. I doubt that many students at other universities have had the same experience. You develop very close relationships with your respected professors and administrators at Albion College.

What are you involved in outside of the classroom?

Outside of the classroom I am the President of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, Alpha Tau Chapter. Greek life has opened many doors with all of the networking that encompasses Greek life. I also regularly volunteer at the American Legion Post #29 in my hometown of Jackson, MI. Everyone on this campus is involved in extracurricular activities from sports, Greek life, and other clubs.

Anchor SplashWhat do you want to do when you graduate?

I am not one hundred percent sure what I want to do when I graduate, however I am keeping my options open. With a double major in Economics & Management and History I have several routes I can choose. However, this summer I am interning at Automated Logistics Systems in Jackson, MI. Assuming that goes well, I may pursue a career in logistics and/or go to graduate school for Logistics or Supply Chain Management.  Albion College really prepares its students for graduate level schooling if one wants to go that route. I have also seriously considered joining the Air Force or Navy Officer Candidate School. Public service and civil duty runs in my family, and I want to give back to others as opposed to filling my bank accounts. Overall, the main goal is to be happy and have a successful work life balance.

Why should someone pick Albion over another school?

A young man or woman should choose Albion over another school because Albion provides opportunities that are at the forefront of their fields. Without a doubt, some of my peers from this college will become doctors, lawyers, businessmen, or successful chemists. Albion College provides its students with a well-rounded and adaptable education that will ensure success in a continually progressing world.

Relay For Life

 

-Kevin Markey ’13

Student Spotlight: Brian Weiss

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Brian, from Livonia, MI, is a force on campus. He is known for his quirky sense of humor, funky bow-ties, and for being very involved. He studies Psychology and Philosophy while also having a concentration in the Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service. He is a senior and will truly be missed after he graduates in May.

Really, there is no one quite like Brian Weiss. Many have said that his life should be a reality TV show…I know I would watch it!

Why did you pick Albion?

Well, I am a transfer student and I was at a big state school. I didn’t like the size of that institution. I wanted a more intimate setting for my education. I chose Albion because of my interview with Al Pheley, the Director of the Ford Institute. I knew I would get such incredible opportunities through the Ford Institute, and the college as a whole. Plus, the small atmosphere here is free of distractions, which I appreciate.

What do you love about Albion?

I love that Albion really is its own school. It’s not like any other school and it doesn’t try to be. It’s unique, like its students, and we like it that way. A good example is the Greek life. Here it is totally different then it is at other schools. Also, Albion’s not just a smaller campus, it’s a community. I have been to other small schools and they don’t have the same vibe and connection as we do. We attract and retain a certain personality type, both in faculty and students,  in the fact that we are such a close community. The truth of the matter is that if being a part of an active community is not for you, then Albion really isn’t for you. That’s not to say that we only attract one personality type, it’s just that we are all open to contributing and we want students who are open to that too. One thing is for sure, four years here will make you more comfortable being exactly who you are.

Any one who knows you knows that you have a very distinct and exciting personality. You’re known as at true character on campus. How do you think that Albion has shaped that in you?

Oh man. Probably by pushing me to be an active part of my community.  Albion’s unique environment encourages individuals to explore themselves and makes them comfortable pushing themselves, in order to best develop into themselves.

You have have been involved with a lot on campus. What is your favorite thing that you have been involved in?

My fraternity, Tau Kappa Epsilon, attracts some of the most religiously affiliated and traditionally-minded individuals, as well as the most liberal and secular members of campus. Yet, somehow, we all find a way to live together — and even further, call each other best friends. It’s a bond that is stronger then anything else that you  could find, even though you might not expect it.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

Currently I’m looking at community service programs in Detroit. I have made connections with City Year Detroit, Focus Hope, Cass Community Social Services, and Greening of Detroit – all great organizations that contribute to the growth and development of the city. I made these connections through ties at Albion, and my whole passion for working in the inner city came from my involvement in a program at Albion called the Sleight Leadership Fellows Program.

Finish this sentence: My dreams for the future…

…incorporate the passion that was instilled in me by the inspirational people who I learn from and work with Albion College. (Yeah, stick that on a hallmark card!)

If someone was considering Albion, why would you tell them to pick Albion instead of somewhere else?

I encourage people to choose Albion because the experience does not encourage you to sit latently in your dorm. You get soaked into a social atmosphere. It encourages you to take hold of you academic experience and to build it in very individual ways. You construct yourself around that experience and it makes you a more mature and well rounded person. Io Triumphe!

To see more of Brian check out Albion’s Gangnam Style Parody: YouTube Preview Image

Student Spotlight: Daniel Warshauer

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Dan Warshauer is a Geology major from Indianapolis, Indiana. He is also pursuing a minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with an Environmental Science concentration. Dan is a senior, to graduate this May, and he loves all things that are totally dangerous. Whether racing cars or climbing glaciers, he is as unique as he is daring.

Why did you pick Albion?

I wanted to go to a small school, out of state, and I wanted to go some place that would have snow; I love snow and ice. I knew Michigan would be good and the first time I stepped foot on Albion’s campus it just kind of felt like a home.

What do you love about Albion?

I love that I have gotten the opportunities to do some amazing things. I have had the most incredible experiences. I got the chance to do research on a glacier in Alaska and have been involved heavily with the theatre department where I stage managed and designed lighting for shows. I have also gotten to work with the interfaith movement at the college and threw that I have created a very strong group of friends.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I want to combine my education as a geologist with my experience as an outdoor mountaineer guide to do work in managing and writing science expositions through the wilderness.

That sounds pretty cool but why?

I love mountaineering. Climbing a mountain is such a thrill. You go to the top of mountains covered in snow and they are the most uninhabited and dangerous places in the world. Being out in the snow and elements, on a mountain, you know you are in a place where few people go. But there is so much potential for science there – there’s so much to understand – and I just love exploring that. I guess you can say I am kind of a daredevil, who loves the adventure of it, paired with a scientist who wants to understand how our earth works.

I love being outdoors and being outside.

If someone was considering Albion, why would you tell them to pick Albion instead of somewhere else?

Because they will get the chance to work with professors in a very close manner and learn from actually doing the thing that they are studying. It’s not just sitting in the classroom, it’s totally hands on, out in the field, experiencing their education.

So how exactly does Albion Student Senate work?

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As I spend more time on campus in general and on Student Senate, I learn more about the opportunities I’m presented with as a member of Senate. I’ve been able to learn about the three key areas in which benefits are offered – what Senate does, how senators benefit, and how the student body benefits.

What Senate Does

  • Governing unit of the Albion College Student Body
  • Distributor of the Student Activity Fund each semester
  • Platform for student-centered issues on campus
  • Voice of the student body to the Administration/Board of Trustees
  • Agent for change in student affairs issues on campus
How Senators Benefit

  • Direct contact and opportunities to interact with Administration/Board of Trustees
  • Chance to advocate for key issues on campus. Senators have brought forth proposals on issues such as
    • gender-neutral housing
    • twice-monthly payperiods for students
    • changes to the student handbook
  • Experience in basic campaign and public speaking skills
  • Proposal writing experience
  • Leadership opportunities
How the Student Body Benefits 

  • Opportunity to influence change on campus
  • Experience in writing a budget proposal
  • Handling basic accounting and managing funds provided by the SAF
  • Experience in cooperational leadership

Senate has a direct impact on every single student on campus, regardless of how involved they are, what their class standing is, or how long they’ve been at Albion. In my opinion, that is a very powerful level of impact!

Going home…

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Spring break. The words probably make you think of beaches, drunken college students, and lots of reckless decisions. Personally, that’s not my style. Of course, my Facebook feed has been blowing up all week with pictures of my classmates, old high school acquaintances, and some random people I met at a conference at some point on cruise ships, tropical islands, and basically anywhere that isn’t Michigan. However, that isn’t what I chose to do with my break.

Now of course, you are asking “Why?” Why would I forgo all of that? What would make me pass up that typical college experience? I’ll give you two reasons – but you will have to wait for them. Be patient. I will get there. First you must know exactly what going home means when you are an upperclassman in college, so that you know exactly how important these reasons are.

Going home isn’t always easy. In fact, for me it rarely is. As much as I love my family, I also love my independence. I love being at school, not having to answer to any one but my self, knowing that I am growing into the person I yearn to be. Often, going home feels like taking a step back. It feels like reverting back into the person I used to be, the person I am so desperately trying to outgrow.

Plus, there is little there for me any more. Like many college students, my room at home was given up when I moved away. My things are all packed in boxes in the basement and the comfort of my own bed is no longer an option. I sleep on a temporary mattress in my Dad’s study while I am home. A room with glass doors, little privacy, and none of the amenities of a bedroom (like a dresser). Yet, I don’t complain. There are eleven people who currently call my house home and I was more then willing to give up my space to make someone else more comfortable.

So, what makes me choose a spring break like this? On a wood floor with no sea or sand in sight? What makes it all worth it? My two reasons are my two nephews, Bradley Michael and Aizik Tomas. Right now, my sisters and my nephews are all living at home so going back means spending time them. Yes, it also means a lot of free babysitting, a few tantrums, and a dirty dipper or two (really it’s way more then that) but at the end of the day it’s worth it. I miss a lot of them growing up from being away at school and every moment I can get with them is something to savor.

So here they are:

Aizik is 6 months old and a total sweetheart. He is the calmest and sweetest baby I have ever held. Twice since I have been home he has fallen asleep in my arms and there is nothing better then that. Bradley recently turned 3 and is growing up so fast. He was born my senior year of high school and was spoiled rotten as my parents first grandchild. Now, he is a total goof-ball, seen above with spaghetti all over his face because he knew I was taking pictures. He and I play every version of Angry Birds, Blast Monkeys, and who knows what else on his little red iPad. I practice counting with him and chase him around the living room while he giggles and screeches. They are so adorable and innocent. I just can’t wait to watch them grow up, and maybe even become Brits one day. (A girl can dream, right?)

What Albion Can Do For You – Job Pursuit

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Job Pursuit is one of the greatest opportunities that Albion College offers its students. The event is a career fair, but it is also an incredibly rewarding experience. It offers:

  • One-on-one contact with potential employers and important contacts
  • Engage a variety of employers and share your resume/experiences in the morning
  • 20-minute interviews (if selected) with employers in the afternoon
  • Interaction with over 250 students from Michigan’s top private colleges

Going into Job Pursuit 2013, I wasn’t expecting much. I am currently a junior and wouldn’t be able to accept any immediate employment opportunities (or so I thought). I went through the morning networking rounds and spoke to 8 employers – including the US State Department, Speedway, Target, and Brotherhood Mutual. I also spoke to a midsize manufacturing company located in Leslie, MI.

After lunch, I came back to the Job Pursuit location to find that I’d been offered two 20-minute interviews. Me! A junior! Someone who (I thought) couldn’t be hired outright. My first interview (with Speedway) went well and I was provided with internship information and contacts for a followup discussion. My second interview went well as well, with that manufacturing company, Huron Technologies. I had the opportunity to discuss different marketing tactics with the company’s president, right there in my interview.

As I left Job Pursuit that day, all I could think was “thank you Albion!” However, the fun didn’t end there. Four days later, I received a phone call from Target for an interview! After two interviews and a series of assessments from Target, I didn’t get offered a position, but the following day, I heard back from Huron Technologies – they wanted a second interview! I’m still currently interviewing and going through the hire-assessment process with HuronTech and I’ll know what the end result will be soon!

All this and I’m just a junior. Welcome to the Albion Advantage!

For an update on the interview process that I went through, read Part II.

Student Spotlight: Leah Saurman

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Leah is a junior at Albion from Caledonia, Michigan. An English major, with an Elementary Education concentration, she loves dancing like a fool, hanging out with friends, taking goofy pictures, and playing tennis. She is incredibly sarcastic and  the most outgoing person I have ever met.

Why did you pick Albion?

For a few reasons. First, I really liked the education program. I liked the faculty that I met when I visited and I liked that it was such a highly respected program. I also liked the small class sizes. I know I would get a really personalized education and that I would be a face and not a number. I also really liked the fact that I would be able to be on the tennis team but still be able to focus on my academics.

What are you involved in on campus?

I am a member of Kappa Alpha Theta which I love. I can’t really explain it but it’s so great to have so many people on my side, always. My sisters support me so much and I have such an incredible relationships with them. I am on the women’s tennis team, too, and I enjoy the fact that I get to pursue a passion that I have had my whole life while being at college. The tennis team is like my family away from home. Oh, I am in the Student Alumni Association, too, which connects students with alumni and keep the alumni updated and involved with campus. Our goal is to promote school spirit and keep strong ties with people who have already graduated.

What do you love about Albion?

I love the experiences that I have had since I came here but the best part is the friendships that I have made.  I feel like I came here freshman year and instantly bonded with the people who are my best friends now. Not only that, but I made friendships with all types of people. I have friends in so many different clubs, sports, and majors across campus –  I really like getting to know such a diverse range of students. Also, I love the professors that I have had and the classes that I’m taking.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I want to be a teacher. I want to be a teacher for little kids and I literally cannot wait until that day comes. It’s all I can think about every day of every week. I have such a passion and fire for teaching young children and I want to help them find their own passion in life. I really like kindergarten through second grade because that is the essential age to get kids engaged in school. If they don’t get a good experience there they are going to hate school, and I want to start them off right in their education.

If someone was considering Albion, why would you tell them to pick Albion instead of somewhere else?

I think the class size is a big thing. Student life is also great. All the clubs, organizations, and events make it impossible to be bored. The academics are rigorous but you know that when you graduate you will be fully prepared. You don’t get a fluff education here. You get something real, that you worked hard for, and that you can do something with. It’s a really good degree that you can be proud of.

Student Spotlight: Isaac Veysey-White

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Isaac is a Biology and Spanish double major from Quincy, Michigan. He is a senior who does all kinds of really awesome things on campus – he is pretty much saving the world, but that’s kind of typical for Albion’s students.

Why did you pick Albion?

I picked Albion because I was really impressed by the science departments. I came here twice for visits and thought that the facilities were really nice. For such a small school it’s really well equipped. I also thought that everyone was really nice. People made me feel welcome and I could tell that the professors genuinely cared about the students. I liked that it was a small school and I liked the feel of the campus and the community.

What do you love about Albion now that you’re here?

My professors are always available when I need help, they know me by name. Even professors who I had three years ago still know who I am. Also, it’s a pretty close-nit community and I really enjoy that. And because it is aliberal arts college, I get to do things outside of my majors, like ceramics. I have taken 6 ceramics classes. They are so fun and different and they relax me. I make functional things like bowls, mugs, and vases. I like making stuff that I can use and I like using stuff that I have made.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I am going on to get a masters degree in biology. I’ll probably be at Western Michigan University but I haven’t committed yet. My end goal is to be a research scientist.

Are you writing a thesis?

Yeah. I am studying a bacteria that causes the disease River Blindness in humans. It infects a tropical parasite that gets into the body. Then, when the parasite dies, the bacteria is released and causes tissue damage. Right now, I am studying it in fruit flies because they are a good model for human genetics, and they reproduce quickly. Also, they are cheap. I want to continue studying these parasites because the more we understand the bacteria and the disease, the better chance we have to treat it.

So your basically your curing diseases and saving lives?

* Shrugs * Probably not me, but I like that it has such a broad reach and has the potential to help people. It effects 66% of all insects in the world and we study it in these organisms to better understand its effects on a global scale.

What are you involved in on campus (when you’re not saving people from disease ridden parasites)?

I’m an RA (Resident Assistant) and I run cross country and track. Also, I am in The Global Medical Brigades Organization which is an international service group for undergrad and graduate students to help bring resources to villages in developing countries – such as health care, clean water, etc.

So where did you go for Global Medical Brigades?

When I went on the trip we went to Coyolito, Honduras to set up a clinic. We hired doctors and helped with translating and triage stuff. We ran the clinic while the doctors saw and treated patients. It was very rewarding and it was an chance for me to use my Spanish outside of the classroom. The people were so grateful and so happy that we were there. They all lived in mud huts but they would put on there Sunday best because they were so excited that we came to their village. We also went to an orphanage and got to play with the kids which was fun.

How is it being an RA?

It’s good. It helps pay the bills but it also builds really strong leadership skills. Plus, I like being in the position to help build communities. I have some really funny stories too from being an RA.

You also said that you were an athlete here at Albion. What’s that like? 

For me it has been really good. I run but on our team you don’t really have to be good in order to matter. As long as you put in the work you can be a part of the team and the coaches understand that academics come first – I really appreciated that.

 

If someone was considering Albion, why would you tell them to pick Albion instead of somewhere else?

Because it really is a great community.

Student Spotlight: Lesley Lloyd

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If you have to know anything about Lesley you have to know that she is hilarious. She is loud, she is crazy, and she is awesome. She comes from Imlay City, Michigan, and is a junior. She is a double major in communication studies and religious studies. She is a huge social media junkie and can be followed / will follow you on anything and everything.

Why did you pick Albion?

Haha. Well, I picked Albion because when I was a child my brother went here, and so I was always here visiting him. One time, Dr. Mitchell, the former president of Albion, was talking to my parents (I was probably like 6 at the time) and he kneeled down, looked at me, and asked if I was going to come to Albion. At the time I kind of just nodded my head and smiled – having no idea that 14 years later it would really come true! Really though, Albion is home. There isn’t anywhere else I could picture myself. There isn’t anywhere else I would want to be.

What do you love about Albion? 

I love that Albion is personal – that’s really the basis of it. Its small and intimate. I always feel engaged here. I love that the professors know what they are talking about and they love what they are talking about. It makes you love it – even if it’s not what you want to do with your life – it makes you want to learn.

What’s your favorite thing to do on campus?

Sleep. Seriously. College students never sleep. Mostly though, I just love being random and spontaneous because that’s what college is all about. I love causing ruckus with my house mates! We go to Union Board events and just run around town at 2 am. We sit in our living room and read tarot cards, throw trees around, catch bats, and just do silly things in general. Really we are all just really big children. We scream about Harry Potter and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches just for the heck of it. Any night of the week you have no idea what’s going to happen in our house and I love it. Often, I just perch at the top of the stairs and watch things unfold.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

Here we go. Okay. I want to be a social media marketing professional. I had this epiphany at the beginning of this semester and it just clicked. I’m so excited about it. Oh my gosh, I can’t even explain how passionate I am when it comes to that kind of stuff. Basically, I love the dreams, visions, and passions of other people. I love to help others and support them in all of their ambitions. I just want to be a supporter and promoter of people and their goals. I want to help people achieve in their lives and use communication to do it.

If someone was considering Albion, why would you tell them to pick Albion instead of somewhere else?

I think that Albion gives you a chance to be undecided – about life, about education, about everything. Then, even when you do decide, you can change your mind. It gives you a chance to grow and you make relationships with the faculty and staff who love what they do. They inspire you so much to just find what you love to do and to go after it. Oh, and we have a great mentor program! When you’re a new student here there are upperclassmen who take you under their wing to transition you in. I think that the program really makes first-year students feel welcome and accepted.

Umbrella: Bringing people together

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Umbrella eboard outing #friends4ever — with Rhiki Swinton, Kameron Sibert, Kayla Kanigit, Alexis Tillery, Hannah Allgaier, Darrian Elise, Rainbow Weldon, Rainbow L Weldon, Lindsay Thompson, Jacqueline Chung, Cheyenne Dannette and Wynter Jay Pitts.

Umbrella eboard outing #friends4ever — with Erika Buckley, Sandra Myint, Rhiki Swinton, Kameron Sibert, Kayla Kanigit, Alexis Tillery, Hannah Allgaier, Darrian Elise, Rainbow Weldon, Rainbow L Weldon, Lindsay Thompson, Jacqueline Chung, Cheyenne Dannette and Wynter Jay Pitts.

All of the amazing people presented in this picture are under the Umbrella organization here on Albion College’s campus. This organization is composed of many different perspectives, backgrounds, and personalities.

The purpose of this particular body is to create a “safe place” where each under-represented student population is supported, to provide an environment in which students can voice concerns, struggles, and accomplishments, and to educate the Albion community about the diversity of cultures and customs. And to do so, we as an organization must first build a cohesiveness within our unit. Then we can educate others on our mission statement as a whole.

So as a family, we all attended Old China Buffet, located in Battle Creek, Michigan. The food there was amazing and it was free, thanks to Intercultural Affairs. And just like our newly elected 2013-2014 president Sandra Myint said, “Food is the best way to bring people together.”

A smoothie and a smile…

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Tonight I experienced a new level of annoyance. I had a meeting for a class that had been my job to schedule. Last week I did everything I could to make sure that the meeting was at a time that was good for everyone and after multiple attempts I finally got people to settle on a time. Then, right before the meeting, someone else decided to cancel it. Of course though, I was at another meeting and I didn’t have time to see that it was cancelled so I ended up sitting there for 20 minutes wondering where the heck everyone was. After an extremely long weekend, I was beyond agitated.

(In hindsight I realize that this wasn’t really a big deal at all – that these kinds of things happen – but in the moment I was far from such clarity.)

Since I had yet to eat dinner, and was already in the KC, I went upstairs to our little diner – The Eat Shop. I placed my order and sat down at a table to wait. After a few minutes one of the employees, I think his name is Troy, tried to get my attention. I walked over to where he was expecting him to tell me that something was wrong with my order but, instead, he offered me a smoothie….a free smoothie. Apparently, they had made too much for the girl before me and had enough left over for an entire additional smoothie.

Why Troy chose to give it to me I have absolutely no clue. The Eat Shop was pretty busy and there were plenty of other people to give it to; or he could have just kept it for himself. For some reason though, he did give it to me and that simple act of kindness completely turned my night around. Not a day goes by at Albion in which I am not inspired by someone or something to do more and to be better.

Tonight, I was inspired by nothing more than a smoothie and a smile…

Student Spotlight: John Fleming, ’14

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John Fleming, ’14, is a political science and communication studies double major involved in just about everything on campus here at Albion.

Fall 2012 semester was no piece of political cake for John Fleming. From June 1st to November 12th, he was running State Representative Patrick Somerville’s campaign. Living back on the island of Grosse Ile, he ran a staff of more than 10 people, fundraising, attending events, and completing other necessary campaign-related tasks. At the start of the campaign, he was sleeping four hours a night and by campaign’s end, that number was down to 1-2 hours per night. After Representative Somerville won and was sworn in to office, John looked forward to returning to campus, getting eight hours of sleep a night, resting, and enjoying a social life. In all reality, John doesn’t handle not being busy well and he delved back into his more-than-busy Albion College life this semester. I was lucky enough to catch him while he was working at the Kellogg Center front desk to talk about what life is like as an Albion student on and off campus. This is what he said:

Why did you pick Albion?

I picked Albion because I wanted a small, liberal arts experience and a school that valued personal contact/interaction with its student.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I want to go on to get my Masters in Public Policy from the Ford School at the University of Michigan and then return to my home state house district (District 23) and run for office in 2016.

What are you involved in?

I am involved in (and treasurer of) all three
theatre organizations on campus (Albion
College Players, Dead Pinocchio Theatre, Theta Alpha Phi), I served as President of the Beta Iota chapter of Phi Mu Alpha (PMA) Sinfonia this past year, and will be serving as Collegiate Province Representative (the highest position in the Fraternity in the State of Michigan) for the 2013-2014 school year. I am actively involved in Michigan Republican Party politics, through my experience as campaign manager last fall and my work in the legislature the last three years. (When John isn’t plugging away at his TI-84, he’s also working over 40 hours a week, both on campus and at Best Buy in Jackson, MI. He also serves as a mentor to Gerald R. Ford Institute freshman students and his two PMA “littles.”  The Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service is one of John’s greatest passions at Albion College, where he serves on the Ford Council, is a Ford Institute office worker, and helps plan the Sleight Leadership Fellows program. He attended the Sleight program in 2012 as a participant, again in 2013 as a mentor, and is already helping to plan the 2014 program.)

What are you up to this summer? 

Since managing a winning campaign last fall, I have had three full-time job offers and four internship offers, all in Lansing, MI or Washington, D.C. I plan to spend my summer in D.C. as an intern on the Hill as I prepare for graduate school applications in the fall.

What do you think prospective students need to know about Albion?

At Albion, you will receive personal attention from faculty and staff that will allow you to do and accomplish things over your four years here that you would not be able to at other schools.  While Albion may be expensive on paper, the opportunities and experiences it will afford you simply cannot be beat by any other school.  If you are looking for a personalized, liberal arts collegiate experience, look no further than Albion.

Photos:
1: John Fleming at a Phi Mu Alpha event
2: Zach Kribs, John Fleming, and Peter Verhaeghe (John’s PMA littles)

State Convention Experience

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This past weekend, a few Albion College students got the opportunity to attend the Republican State Convention, myself included. Students in attendance included Theodore Woodcock, Austin Moccia, Eric Alamat, Mark Zeigler, Billy Hunter, Anna Bickerstaff, and Morgan Davis. Our main purpose for being at the event was to volunteer for a couple campaigns: Ted, Austin, Eric, Mark, Billy, and I were all volunteering for Matt Jones while Anna and Morgan were volunteering for Blake Edmonds. Both gentlemen were candidates for Youth Chair of the Michigan Republican Party.

Jones for Youth Chair Volunteers - I'm in the front righthand corner

When not doing campaign work, we got the opportunity to attend the convention itself. I had the opportunity to be on stage as Matt Jones gave his speech before the vote and I also had the opportunity to hear Bobby Schostack speak before he was reelected as Michigan Republican Party Chair.

Matt Jones watching his nomination for Youth Chair

I’d never been to an event this exciting before and it’s certainly because of Albion College that I was able to attend and have such an exciting experience.

The State Convention floor

My "campaign volunteer" credentials that got me on the convention floor.