Super Human Moments: Peace Corps
Everyone has had them: moments when things have gone wrong partly because of our own lack of experience or perspective.  In this new series of posts, I'm asking members of the UMBC community to reflect on their own 'super human moments.'

Name: Delana Gregg

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars Assistant Director, Co-instructor of Civic Imagination and Social Entrepreneurship

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus?

A: Hopefully nurturing in students a sense of public service and leadership

Q: What title would you give your Super Human Moment?

A: How I grew in the Peace Corps

Q: What happened?

A: Six months after graduating from college, I left my little midwestern town for 2 years of service in the Peace Corps in Lithuania.  Having never traveled abroad, I had little idea what to expect, but knew that I would work with English teachers to help them improve (read: westernize) their Soviet-style teaching methods, and I would also teach English conversation in a high school.  The Peace Corps lives up to its slogan...it really is the toughest job you'll ever love, though the love part took a while to discover.  Sure I was charmed by the country, people, culture, and new experiences, and after three months of training and language immersion, I and my rucksack headed to my new home, the town of Telsiai.  I had an office at the local County Department of Education, lovely co-workers who only spoke Lithuanian (you can pick up a language quickly this way) and I headed off on bus and foot to my new school.  I met my teacher-mentor, an older woman who had lived in the US, Ponia (Mrs.) Zardeckiene.  She was a chain-smoking tornado, given much leave by the principal to basically do whatever she liked, and her age granted her the freedom to schluff of restrictive Lithuanian norms of how a woman is "supposed" to act.  We routinely smoked in the dark school basement with the custodians, her translating my broken Lithuanian to their delight.  I would teach 2 sections of her classes, helping prepare the juniors and seniors for the all important state exams. 

Our honeymoon soon came to a screeching halt when Ponia Zarkeckiene's irrepressible personality got too big to handle.  She dressed me down forcefully for some forgotten cultural faux pax and the months of homesickness, culture shock and a frustration (I WAS HERE TO HELP!) started the waterworks...I began to cry.  She continued to scream at me, telling me I needed to go to a psychiatrist because I was obviously unstable.  I walked back to my second job at the Department of Education in a black mood.  Here I was, on the other side of the world, trying to serve others and I get the brunt of this woman's temper...I never ever wanted to see her again, and asked to be assigned to another teacher.  I did not come to the school on days that she was there, and our planned friendship (two American-type outsiders together, swapping stories) disappeared.  I continued teaching, though my heart was never in that school, and created new relationships with other teachers and co-workers (I even continued to visit the janitors in the basement), but I never got over this initial broken trust.

A few months later, Ponia Zardeckiene passed away.  I did not attend her funeral, though one of my favorite students who was close to her told me all about it.  I could have buried the hatchet, and grown to understand and perhaps cherish this woman for her life of experiences and her gateway into Lithuanian culture, but I just couldn't get past my own hurt feelings.  To this day when I think of Lithuania, I regret this incident, but I know I had to find more productive and nurturing relationships if I was going to survive two years in a different country.  Your mentor-teacher/co-worker in the Peace Corps is supposed to be your cultural guide, your life line in a sea of new and hard to navigate cultural waters.  But I gave up on mine and worked hard to create new and more helpful relationships on my own. 

Q: How have you applied what you learned?

A: I struggle with having to let negative or hurtful people go.  I realize this may be cold, to judge a person as a positive influence or not, and then cutting them out of your life, and I always feel a tug to go back and repair the broken trust, but I do not.  This is a lesson my father taught me and one that is still with me today.  Keep your friends close, nurture those relationships to keep them vital, helping others and asking for help when you need it.  But once someone becomes a detriment to my goals and self-worth, I have to let them go.  Perhaps as I grow older and wiser I'll find a middle ground, a bag of second chances, because I do believe that everyone has good aspects to their soul, but I'm scared of getting burned two times right now.  I see myself less as a tornado, and more of a cool calm sea, and I like that.

Q: Do you have any advice you can pass along to others?

A: You can't change other people, you can't make them like you or be good to you or to themselves.  Everyone is on their own path; sometimes you walk together, and sometimes you have to keep going your own way.
]]> Everyone has had them: moments when things have gone wrong partly because of our own lack of experience or perspective.  In this new series of posts, I'm asking members of the UMBC community to... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/super-human-moments-peace-corps.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5690/guest@my.umbc.edu/3371b8c9dbbc07051a598faadd113d0b/api/pixel super-human-moments Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 25 4 true Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:13:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Mallorie Ortega
I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Mallorie Ortega

Hometown: Oceanside, CA

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: I am finishing my second year at UMBC!

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: I am President of UMBCtv, Media Artist for the Theatre Department's Student Publicity Committee, and Production Staff Member of Musical Theatre Club

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: I help those who don't know where to go when they are in need.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I enjoy collaborating with different people. Everyone has their own talent and passion that when everything comes together, it feels amazing. And watching the final product is such a great reward, not only for me, but for those who have worked on it too. We did that, not anyone else.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: The most important thing I've realized while being at UMBC is to do whatever makes you happy even if it's not a part of your major. May it be an extracurricular or a hobby, don't stop! I am who I am, and even though it's not likely I will continue it after college, it's an outlet. It makes you a more well-rounded person; makes you connect with many different people. And that happiness travels to those people, and that's where you find your core. I may act professionally here and there, but you may catch me acting crazy like a little kid who found out they're going to Disney World! Weird yes, but balanced and happy. So don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Go out and have an adventure!

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Food. I love food. Please don't ever take that away from me. <3 But seriously, it's the professors, student leaders, UMBC staff and everyone who works here and keeps this place running. You do great work and are greatly appreciated! You inspire me!

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: My favorite spot on campus is the Quad. The Commons is such a beautiful building, the grassy steps are so comfortable to sleep on, and when the sun sets and reflects off the windows and it's a nice breeze; mm beautiful. I love filming there. It's a great place to relax, think, watch the clouds and hang out... this is starting to sound like a dating service haha I LOVE LONG WALKS ON THE BEACH! =)
]]> I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-people-profiles-mallorie-ortega.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5677/guest@my.umbc.edu/93936d5449fe6af1f8b3111ddf85bbcc/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 32 6 true Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:48:00 -0500 Help Test the SGA Election on MyUMBC This year's SGA election is likely to take place through MyUMBC, a first that we hope will make the voting process more accessible.  But first, we need to test the system.  I'm hoping you'll help by attempting to vote in a trail run of the election.

To get started, follow this link:

Vote in the Trial Run of the SGA Election on MyUMBC

There's an opportunity to leave comments on the voting process after the 3rd (of 3) test questions.  Please do; it will help us evaluate this experiment.  Also, please let me know (by email to dhoffman@umbc.edu) if one of these things happens when you follow the link:

--You are a UMBC undergraduate but find that you are NOT able to reach the ballot and cast a vote; OR

--You are NOT a UMBC undergraduate but find that you ARE able to reach the ballot and cast a vote.

The trial election is running only from Tuesday, March 8th at 8:00 a.m. through Thursday, March 10th at 6:00 p.m., after which it should become impossible for anyone to cast additional votes.

Thanks for your help!

NOTE: We’re already hearing about an error message ("You selected too many choices for your vote") in response to Test Question #1.  It’s an issue we'll have to work out.  I appreciate the feedback; that's why we're running the test.  Let me know of other issues.  Thank you!
]]> This year's SGA election is likely to take place through MyUMBC, a first that we hope will make the voting process more accessible.  But first, we need to test the system.  I'm hoping you'll help... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/help-test-sga-election-on-myumbc_08.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5674/guest@my.umbc.edu/a927f8d46f5a68dd986fb741abb19f87/api/pixel sga-election Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 14 0 true Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:06:00 -0500 Real People Profiles Mashup
As of last week, there had been 100 Real People Profiles published on Co-Create UMBC (congrats Cara Jurney, #100).  To celebrate the milestone, I present the second Real People Profile Mashup.

Like the first Mashup (posted after profile #60), this one uses Microsoft Word's "Autosummarize" feature, a not-very-useful tool which assigns a score to each sentence in a document (based on whether it contains words used frequently in the document), then uses the scores to produce a summary.  As summaries, "Autosummarize" results tend to be awful.  But as poetry . . .

This Mashup "Autosummarizes" the first 100 profiles' responses to the question, "Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?" 

-----

Pig Pen Pond: Between UMBC and the Tech Center.  Behind the Fine Arts building.  Bio-Building Terrace. A friend introduced me to an acquaintance (another UMBC student and Information Systems major) who he thought could help me. I've rolled down a hill at UMBC for the first time in my life. 

My colleague, Paula Ashby, has been working at UMBC for 30 years!

As of December 7th, there are 238 recognized student organizations on campus. The Student Organizations Committee recognizes nearly 35 new student organizations each year. The benches by the UMBC Library Pond. The Physics Building Terrace. I find myself spending a lot of time lately in the student lounge and atrium of the AOK Library on campus. Go to a show at the UMBC theater.  There's usually some great food and its really interesting to learn about the cultures of other UMBC students. 

I luv that about UMBC.

For most of my time at UMBC and for years before, the first floor of the UC was locked and inaccessible to students.

When I first started at UMBC, I was kinda miserable. By the end, UMBC had become a home for me. The UMBC campus contains four branches of the Herbert Run stream which connect near the southern border of campus. There are over 200 different student organizations here on campus and if there’s not a student organization here for you then it’s really easy to start one up.  Getting involved in student life has made my college experience complete. Take advantage of everything that UMBC has to offer.  Finally, be proud that you are a UMBC Retriever.  UMBC has an underground tunnel system. Otis Redding performed on campus in 1967 during the 1st Spring Week, UMBC’s early version of Quadmania. My favorite spot on campus as a student was the huge porch at Patapsco. Wow, great question. My favorite place on campus is in any of the study rooms in the library. I enjoy playing basketball at the RAC with students. The Commons. The Library. The library is an incredibly inspirational place to study.

I was shocked to learn he was the President of UMBC.  It’s definitely a great place to check out.   

Favorite spots? The library. Definitely my favorite place on campus.  Also, the Women's Center is my home away from home on campus, a relaxing place to have lunch, meet friends, get help and support (Commons, bottom floor).  The study rooms in the library are a great place to study with friends.

I love the first floor of the Fine Arts building. Just visit the Student Government Office, the Student Events Board, or the Student Involvement Center. One of my favorite moments at UMBC happened during my freshman year. We went sledding on every hill on campus before the rest of campus woke up. I have lots of UMBC stories, but I think my favorite memory from my time at UMBC was the 40th Anniversary fireworks, which I watched from the roof of the Commons.  I think UMBC is one year older than I am.

My favorite spot on campus is the Harbor Hall desk.  Honestly, I could probably write a book about my life at UMBC. A place not many people remember (or were at UMBC for) was the Hillcrest building. All in all, my experience at UMBC has been an adventure! One fine morning, we came to UMBC, and the moment we stepped onto campus, I knew it was the college for me. During my first few weeks at UMBC, I fell in love with the Women's Center: the comfy couches, delicious teas, fascinating books, exciting events, great company... It is a sign that student life at UMBC is expanding and everyone wants to get involved.

UMBC is always full of people. My favorite spot on campus is continually changing.
]]> As of last week, there had been 100 Real People Profiles published on Co-Create UMBC (congrats Cara Jurney, #100).  To celebrate the milestone, I present the second Real People Profile Mashup.... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-people-profiles-mashup.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5664/guest@my.umbc.edu/77068e6448cf7c28163178033fee238e/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 15 4 true Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:11:00 -0500 Info Sessions for Potential SGA Candidates


20 opportunities to make a difference are now available: elected officer positions in the 2011-2012 SGA.  If you're curious about what these positions involve or how the election process works, stop by one of these two information sessions this week:

Wednesday, March 9th, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m., in Commons 328

Thursday, March 10th, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., in Commons 329.

I'll be there, along with SGA Election Board Chair Jake Borr and SGA Executive Vice President Richard Blissett.  Bring your questions!

The application for these positions is due next Friday, March 18th at 5:00 p.m.  You can read more about the positions available by following the links below.

President, Executive Vice President, Vice President for Student Organizations, Treasurer
Senator
Finance Board Representative

Can't make the sessions?  Don't let that stop you from asking your questions.  Email them to me at dhoffman@umbc.edu.
]]> 20 opportunities to make a difference are now available: elected officer positions in the 2011-2012 SGA.  If you're curious about what these positions involve or how the election process works,... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/info-sessions-for-potential-sga.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5646/guest@my.umbc.edu/fff3567bcc0058c02ce64ed4e168b3d1/api/pixel opportunities sga-election Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 16 0 true Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:57:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Nate Kim
I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Nate Kim

Hometown: Bowie, MD

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: This is my 4th and last year here! I'm a senior citizen.

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Director of Academic Affairs for SGA, Desk Staffer at Susquehanna Hall, Tutor in the Chemistry Tutorial Center

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: I better students' academic experiences and make sure people have a good time! And then I sleep, sometimes.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I enjoy talking to so many different people. Every year, you meet new people in your major, in your graduating year, freshmen who live in residence halls, administrators, people from different races and cultures and beliefs. I'm friends with people who I never thought I would've when I first came to UMBC. That in itself is pretty great. 

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: Take some time to appreciate the people around you, your family, your friends, and even the moment itself. It's so easy to get bogged down and stressed out about exams and assignments. It's easy to linger on the hard times. But appreciate them too. Struggles happen but you fight through them. Have fun in everything you do. When you enjoy the journey you take, the end goal becomes that much sweeter.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: ...the AMAZING RACE!!! Anyone who knows me knows how obsessed I am. The number one thing on my bucket list is to be on the Amazing Race. I get excited every time just thinking about it.

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: 1. Late night food runs are awesome. I highly recommend it for any day. Bad for your weight, bad for your studying, but good for your soul. 2. The SGA office is pretty awesome. It becomes a dance club once in a while.
]]> I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-people-profiles-nate-kim.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5639/guest@my.umbc.edu/5223430d2c0baa4399159a18eed40676/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 38 17 true Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:34:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Caroline (Cara) Jurney
I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Caroline (Cara) Jurney.

Hometown: College Park, MD

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: Just one semester.

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: At the moment I am just a plain old member a few groups like The Stilettos and the Health and Wellness sect of the SGA.  I am also a Labbie for some math classes and if all goes well, I will have one more title soon!

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: My work ethic, character, and smile allow me to lead by example.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I honestly enjoy every bit of my life at UMBC.  If I had to pick a favorite, it would probably be learning, as strange as that sounds.  I really like my major, though, so I’m genuinely interested in the subject matter of all of my classes.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: I have learned two things at UMBC that have completely changed the way I approach life.  Firstly, I learned who I am.  It seems cliché and impossible for someone to “find themselves” in one semester at college, but it’s exactly what happened. Throughout the past couple of years, I’ve been undergoing a massive personal transformation, and gaining independence in college gave me the opportunity to figure out who the “new me” is and what that really means.   The second most important thing I’ve learned is that people at their core are really decent.  No one wakes up and thinks, “Today, I’m going to ruin someone’s life.”  People just aren’t that malicious- at worst, people are careless and they just don’t think about the effect they are having on others. 

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A:  Openness.  It really makes my day when someone is open to try something new with me, or if they open up and tell me something important, or if someone is open to becoming my friend. 

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: My favorite spot on campus is continually changing.  In the non-wintry months, I love the stairways on either side of the Math/Psych building.  One of them has ivy and the other has honeysuckle, and it reminds me so much of my original home!  In the morning, my favorite spot is the seventh floor of the library.  It is so open (which I’m a fan of) and peaceful!  Even the bathrooms are nicer up there!  We have a really nice campus, guys, so explore! 
]]> I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-people-profiles-caroline-cara.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5568/guest@my.umbc.edu/84c5d6970ddd51ff517ce2e7e5b949c0/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 30 16 true Thu, 03 Mar 2011 09:41:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Bob Somers
I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Bob Somers

Hometown: Ripon, Wisconsin.

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: 21 years.  (Time flies when you are having fun!)

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Director of the Bookstore.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: Direct employees in offering classroom and other needs through excellent customer service.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: Working with all aspects of the UMBC Community.  I have been employed at approximately a dozen institutions of higher learning, and in my opinion the cooperation at UMBC is unsurpassed.  That teamwork makes everyone’s job a wee bit easier!  My ultimate favorite time is when the students arrive on campus for Fall classes after the long hot summer of minimal traffic.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: We are defined not by the challenges that come our way, but rather by our responses to said challenges.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: The New York Jets, John Lennon, Robyn Hitchcock, Juliana Hatfield, literature and computer games in a fantasy (sword and sorcery) setting, building and upgrading computers, and most of all, my three kids.

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: Every day has the potential for the unexpected in the Bookstore.  Way back in 1990, a high level administrator approached me within a few weeks of my arrival at UMBC.  The individual wished to return a UMBC winter coat which had been recently purchased in the Bookstore.  I was informed that the coat had NEVER been worn, and that the individual had opted to purchase a more traditional, non-emblematic winter coat.  After allowing the refund, the coat was put back out for sale.  It was at this point that we discovered the dog bones (treats) in the pocket.  WOOF!
]]> I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/real-people-profiles-bob-somers.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5543/guest@my.umbc.edu/6aee881724cd2eb39904eab893dd2331/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 30 8 true Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:51:00 -0500 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:51:00 -0500 Super Human Moments: What Did I Get Myself Into?
Everyone has had them: moments when things have gone wrong partly because of our own lack of experience or perspective.  In this new series of posts, I'm asking members of the UMBC community to reflect on their own 'super human moments.'

Name: Mitch Case

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Director of Communications for College Democrats, USDemocrazy blogger, Creative Services intern, and Assistant Director of Public Relations for SGA

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus?

A: I blog, post, plan, and organize for SGA, College Democrats, and USDemocrazy.net

Q: What title would you give your Super Human Moment?

A: "What did I get myself into?"

Q: What happened?

A: Last year I transfered to UMBC, and in hopes to be more involved I joined the Student Government Association.  I started off as a blogger but towards the end of the semester I was asked to take on some additional responsibility, specifically being the lead on Project Black and Gold.  At the time, I was a little unsure of the requirements of the project...I agreed nonetheless.  In the coming weeks I found out exactly what I signed up for and asked "what did I get myself into?"

The end goal of the project was to install black and gold colored banners around campus to inspire school spirit.  It turned out that Project Black and Gold was the latest incarnation of a project which had been years in the making and had failed at least two times before.  Now it was up to me to make sure it didn't go down hill yet again.  I found myself working with other students, administrators, an outside company, and facilities' staff to guarantee the success of the project.

To me, the hardest part of the process was the interaction with so many new people.  I find myself to be a quiet person and enjoy working behind the scenes.  In this case, standing on the sidelines wasn't an option so I had to embrace my role.  I learned that if needed, I could take the lead and reach out to necessary people.  After some nervousness, frustration, and a whole lot of new faces the banners were installed prior to Fall 2010.

Q: How have you applied what you learned?

A: This experience opened me up to a lot of new opportunities and just as many new faces.  I'm less hesitant to reach out to the necessary people in dealing with projects and other tasks.  It is experience I can use almost anywhere in my life whether inside or outside of the classroom.

Q: Do you have any advice you can pass along to others?

A: I'd encourage others who are introverted to reach out when it is necessary.  There are times when you won't be able to get things done if you don't speak up.
]]> Everyone has had them: moments when things have gone wrong partly because of our own lack of experience or perspective.  In this new series of posts, I'm asking members of the UMBC community to... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/03/super-human-moments-what-did-i-get.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5530/guest@my.umbc.edu/0de5e3f563b9e71c22ac4dc332aecabc/api/pixel super-human-moments Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 19 5 true Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:42:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Shin-Yee Yu
I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.

Name: Shin-Yee Yu

Hometown: Taipei, Taiwan

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: 4 semesters

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar, SGA Judge Advocate, Vice-Delegation Chairperson for Maryland Student Legislature, Tutor for the Learning Resource Center, OXFAM, Woolie

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: I am involved in different organizations to learn more about myself and others.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I enjoy all of them! I really love all the organizations I am involved in. But most of all I like meeting interesting and intelligent people through these organizations. 

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: I have learned opportunities are always available for you at UMBC. You just have to have the courage to attempt it. In high school, talking to people I didn’t know or being involved in different activities terrified me. I definitely wanted college to be a different experience. I came into UMBC with an open attitude, wanting to meet people and be involved in everything. And because of the organizations and activities I have been involved in I have had so many meaningful experiences and met so many wonderful people. UMBC is a great place for stretching your limits and finding yourself.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Hello Kitty. When I was little, my dad stood in a long line to buy me limited editions of Hello Kitty dolls for my birthday. It was one of the best gifts I have every gotten. I also had a Hello Kitty watch and alarm clock which I loved. Basically, I am a Hello Kitty fanatic. But I don’t like cats that much.

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: UMBC is always full of people. It is very difficult to have alone time, especially if you live in a dormitory. Whenever I need some alone time, I like to escape to the library. On the third floor of the library, there is a little corner with a comfy couch. I like to sit there and do my homework or just relax with my music. It’s a nice place to hear my own thoughts.
]]> I’m asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2011/02/real-people-profiles-shin-yee-yu.html https://my3.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/5514/guest@my.umbc.edu/b2f999c65d1ff9c54603b083a085c8ef/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 32 13 true Mon, 28 Feb 2011 21:22:00 -0500