Erin's Adventures

FRIENDSSSS

2010-11-14T12:53:00.000-08:00

November 13: AMAZING! Went to brunch with my two oldest friends. One goes to Point Loma basically down the street and the other came to visit! Then I watched a movie with my friend Emily who works all the time for work study at school. THENNNN I cleared out my schedule so a couple of friends could come over and bbq and just hang out. It was an amazing time. I couldn't ask for better people in my life :)

After an amazing brunch at Point Loma with my two oldest and dearest friends, Emily and Camille... :)

In my dining room with my sister and friend Beau before he did an incognito performance for us...he is the BEST

Goofing off with my Carly friend after burgers and funfetti cookies!

November 14: I woke up with one of my best friends who spent the night and it was fabulous! And then I had an hour and a half skype date with my roommate from last year, Stesha! She is currently studying abroad in Italy through USD and is having a blast, but of course she wants me there! HAHAHA

EVERY day is the best day

2010-11-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

November 10...no pictures...I have failed.

November 11:
Meredith holding a light above a photo shoot for her internship...it was hilarious

This guy had been walking on the tree in Balboa Park...right before I took the picture he fell...BAHAHAHAHA

A no skateboarding sign where we had the photo shoot by escondido

Went to a Mexican restaurant in Escondido with the "best chicken soup ever". It was pretty good...

I LOVE THIS TRUCK

November 12:

Our American Music Awards tickets came in the mail today...YAY

it's been a long time coming...

2010-11-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a minute...sorry guys! I have just been running all over the place, from Northern California to have a blast with my oldest friend, back to San Diego!

October 14 was the Apple Festival here at USD! There was apple pie, apple cider, apple tea, apple bars, apple push pops, fresh apples, dried apples, barbecued chicken (yeah, idk)...it was GREAT! And FREE! I have pictures, but they won't upload from my email unfortunately :( No one wants to see me eating anyways...hahaha

October 15We filmed the promotional video for our Sorority's First Annual Philanthropy 5k!

October 16 At Buca de Beppos in dowtown San Diego for my sorority sister's birthday :)

October 19 The author of this book came into Holocaust class to talk about his role in the Nuremburg Trials. He is the only remaining person who was present

October 19 Yes that is a hamburger in my sisters book bag...

October 22 My oldest friend, Allison, and I at Apple Hill in Northern California. I hadn't been here for 13 years! If I didn't go to school in San Diego, this would not be possible :)

October 23 With my Granny in Northern California at a childhood favorite ice cream place of mine: Leatherby's in Sacramento :)

October 29 The pumpkins across the street

October 29th Sunset in front of my house

October 30 Cookie Monster with Winnie the Pooh, a nerd, and Katy Perry

October 30 Here I am as Cookie Monster with my friend Slim Shady

November 3 Mini cupcakes that my big sister in my sorority brought to Children and Media class to share with me

November 2 A temporary tattoo of Hello Kitty with a leopard print monkey suit that my roommate gave me...it lasted for over a week...couldn't get it off!

November 1 In N Out after class...I know that many people don't have this...come to SD and you will

November 3 Picked up my brother and my little in my sorority and went on a sonic adventure!

November 3 At the airport, picking up my little brother, I saw this on the window of a car...reminds me of home :)

November 4 My brother BEING the surfboard after tiring himself out learning how to surf (my front yard)

November 4 Rented a surfboard through our Adventure Center at school for the weekend

November 5 Took family pictures at sunset before grilling burgers and watching movies :)

November 5 Siblings in front of my house on the tandem bike we rented

November 6 After filling ourselves up at the fish market, sunset over Coronado Island

November 6 Siblings at the Fish Market on the water...right before my brother tried shark, crab, and sushi for the first time...gotta love San Diego

November 7 Participants in the 5k :)

November 7 7 am set up for the 5k

November 7 My sorority little, Kristi, and I at our First Annual Kappa Alpha Theta Rock the CASA 5k Fun Run/Walk
November 8 My big work project of the week: decorating the Communication Studies Department Board in the office...come by and check it out

November 9 Morning walk on the beach, happened upon the life guard towers by the jetty. 13 and 23 are my dad's and brother's lucky numbers, respectively. It's a sign that I should be here in San Diego! bahahahaha

I will make sure to update as much as possible. This is as much for me as it is for you, as I should be taking at least one picture a day of my life here. I have been pondering the idea of graduation a lot recently (since I have 6 weeks left) and it is starting to make me nervous! Part of me wishes that I hated either home or here, but I can't hate either...I love them both for many different reasons. Sigh. At least I'm enjoying it!

Any questions, feel free to email or comment on my posts! I love hearing from you all!

Midterms...what midterms?

2010-10-13T22:07:00.000-07:00

I have not updated the past couple days...but it's ok! You wouldn't want to hear it anyways because I let myself be in a bad mood! BUT...I am happy to say midterms are FINISHED and life is golden again :)

Here is my life TODAY

AC unit caught fire in Camino Hall the other day while I was at work...didn't have to go back to work. SCORE! Everything is A OK!

In the Emerging Leaders class I teach we had a contest between 3 teams who could make the highest tower out of 3 pieces of paper and 2 straws...my team won :)

Do you see the man's face in my sister's boot? WEIRD

Activity in Emerging Leaders class...yeah, we love each other

More invading of the personal space in Emerging Leaders

LAZY SUNDAY

2010-10-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

Mad flip flop tan line...

Studying on the beach :)
Ok, or not so lazy sunday. Today's to-do list goes on for ages: bag up all food and pack to leave for half the week (so they can tent and de-termite the house), study for 2 midterms this week, work on a video project, homework, and clean.

But I got in some beach time :)

SATURDAY

2010-10-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Went to the mall after the Homecoming game...this is what we saw. When I Have kids, I will leave them in the water hamster balls at the mall and shop for hours...

The Homecoming Candidates hugging the winners...Jeremy Dey (I LOVE THIS KID) and Stephanie Wood (reppin KC,MO!)

Our fans, cheering after a touchdownnnnnn

DIEGOOOOO

Our Theta booth at the Homecoming tailgate...it was BEAUTIFUL

FRIDAY

2010-10-10T13:44:00.001-07:00

The sunset through Tecolote Canyon at the base of the valley housing...superb

The lights set up for the friday night homecoming concert (Hellogoodbye) on campus :)

I love: obstacle courses, photo booths, free food, free concerts, friends, and stars. And this is all what I got friday night because it's HOMECOMING WEEKENDDDDDD.

This school amazes me sometimes :)

10/6, 10/7

2010-10-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

Me and my friend Bryan after he rescued my sister and I from our unfortunate car troubles...10/7

MY POOR CAR. Power steering went out on the highway. I got a nice arm workout turning the wheel to get to a safer place haha. This was a fun night...1/2 from home...basically sitting on the wheel to make it move...fun conversation with a drunk homeless man until rescued by Meredith's boss...power steering fluid didn't work, because it's electric...driving 20 minutes in the other direction to drop it off at a car place...getting rescued again, but this time by one of my best friends that I met on one of the first days here freshman year. I love my life and the people in it :)

Grabbed coffee at a local coffee shop then walked the boardwalk by my house in South Mission Thursday morning :)

The awkwardly placed "time out" chair in the Comm office. Just a randomly placed desk that I dubbed my teacher's timeout chair...and he dubbed it my desk...let's see where this goes...10/6

Lou

2010-10-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is Lou. Lou is 84 years old, and is a survivor of the Holocaust. He lived through years of ghettos and several camps, including Auschwitz. He was put into a gas chamber, only to be released, and on liberation day, he could not walk, and his skin was nearly transparent. Lou has come a long way since the Holocaust, and is now living in San Diego. Lou is adorable, and can tell his story like none other.

"I have nightmares every night about it. In my nightmares, everything is as it was. I wake up wet and sweaty, but I'm glad that I wake up!"--Lou Dunst

He came to speak to my Holocaust Religion class tonight. This is something I will never forget.

FAIL

2010-10-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

I am failing miserably at this "picture a day" blog that i promised myself I would do. Blah. However, I can provide a picture for nearly every day of the last week! So let's go for it!
Mood today: amazing. it's drizzling outside. it feels like a midwest october, which is nice every once in awhile!

Smores at my house after a night of bbqing following our beach day! (Saturday, Sept 25)

We have fun pulling things out of the ocean! (Saturday, Sept 25)

Slack lining in Belmont Park just north of my house on Mission Beach (Saturday, Sept 25)

Surf boards at Kappa Alpha Theta/Sig Ep's first Endless Summer! (Saturday, Sept 25)

Walking at Belmont Park (Sunday, Sept 26)

Diner on Coronado with my friend from KC (Thursday, Sept 23)

My lovely students from Emerging Leaders! (Wednesday, Sept 28)

The little model from the photo shoot I helped with! (Saturday, Oct 2)

The recording studio that my sister interns at/I help with! (Friday, Oct 1)

lazy days

2010-09-23T12:51:00.000-07:00

My friend from home got in today :) It has been laid back, we walked along the beach and ate mac n cheese in the front yard. I love lazy days! Off to work in a bit in the Communication Studies department!

The cute little signs on the alleys by my house :)

USD = one big PASSION PIT

2010-09-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

Passion Pit at USD? Yes, that's what happened last night! After they opened for Muse, the drummer came on over to play an hour long set for us. It was INSANE.

2010-09-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

EVERYONE...don't panic! The decapitated statue below has been re-headed thanks to the lovely maintenance people in Camino/Founders! This decapitation happened about 2 weeks ago, and yesterday, the head magically reappeared. Not the greatest thing to do to a religious statue, but whoever did it had SKILL.

Finally organizing my school life into a binder. I am now in charge of putting together a recruitment video for my sorority, I am doing a video blog for a final project, filming some of my life here in my last semester, and I have my student film project to complete. Boy, am I going to get use out of my camera! I might wear it out!

Today was my first day where I didn't have to be on campus until 2 for work. It was glorious because I got to celebrate my friend's birthday last night AND sleep in AND get some work done this morning.

Now I am here, always running into people I know and love. And the department I work in (Communication Studies) is fabulous! I am solidifying some plans for Sundance Film Festival, and things just continue to get better!

Sideways

2010-09-19T21:41:00.000-07:00

Sooooo

Yesterday (Saturday) was another amazing day. Let's just face it, life where I'm at right now is like cloud 9. I, of course, am loving every second of it, but I know there is a cloud 10, cloud 11, etc. etc.

A few people crashed at the beach house Friday night, and after my sister and I took them back to their prospective homes, we went to the store. WHOOT gotta love the store! Then, we got to lay out for awhile, watch a surf competition at the beach, the usual...

Made our way to the football game for a bit (we ended up losing :( ). But we only stayed for a bit because our boy band weekend 2.0 (it happened freshman year as well) had yet to be completed!

That's right, Hanson was in town last night! Hanson concert #7 was attended last night! It was just as magical as every one before...oooooo

The following are some pics from the life and times of Erin Schneider on Saturday Sept 18 :)

Isaac's head...their tour banner
Zac (center) and Taylor (right)
sideways football field...sorry guys, it wouldn't turn! grrrrr

As always, please send me any questions you may have!

Pleasant

2010-09-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Forecast today: 68ish and pleasantly overcast

I love having a class schedule Monday-Wednesday! And I work half day on Thursday, then 3 1/2 days FREEEEEEE to live spontaneously and at the BEACH. I had a Sundance Film Festival class meeting today, as USD is the ONLY school that offers a class there! I cannot wait, and it is in JANUARY.

JoBros tonight at Cricket Wireless! Love all the venues nearby!

99 days til CHRISTMAS

Today, I am sharing with you the "Hot or Not" section of today's USD Vista Newspaper. I love when home (KC) gets mixed in! It's a small world after all!
Here is a still of the Drake performance at the VMAs. The circled person is the back of my head. Isn't it ridiculous? Lol

MTV VMAS

2010-09-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

It took me a couple days to recover, but. . .I was at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards! I got to stand in the pit next to all the action with two of my guy friends and a ton of my favorite celebrities! Unfortunately, no cell phones or cameras were allowed (boo) but I did get a picture of my bracelet :)

If only I was 21, this wrist band would have gotten me into the afterparties...sigh

Today

2010-09-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

New year, an even better me (well, at least from my perspective)! This summer was great because it was busy busy busy, but also very self-fulfilling and life-changing (as every day is!) I can't believe it, but this is my LAST SEMESTER OF COLLEGE! I'm hoping that throughout the year I can not only provide you with the best of college, but also tips for surviving college years, graduation, and job hunts! I would like to do a picture-a-day blog, a bit different than before! I want to have this as not only something you can check out, but something to help me remember some of the best times of my life thus far!

This semester, I only have class Monday-Wednesday! I LOVE my scheduling abilities! If anyone ever wants help figuring out their schedule, come to me! Today, I am updating from work in the Communication Studies office, Camino 126! Come visit me!

Sometimes, I will post more pictures, but mainly it's a goal of mine to take a picture-a-day in the life of me :)

Today's picture comes straight from the beach at about 4 pm yesterday. I am living down on Mission Beach this semester, and wanted to capture the Belmont Park area from the perspective of the ocean. I plan on going to the beach after work today as well. And on days I haven't been able to make it to the beach, I can always see it from campus. If you attend USD, you will be able to appreciate this gift every day. Enjoy :)

I'm like the Energizer Bunny...I just keep going and going and going...

2010-03-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

My sister was threatened by the Joker on Hollywood Blvd...no where else would this occur
spring break...with my best friend's baby! Introducing her to her inevitable sweet tooth!
my brother playing video games...he is scared of baby
Hollywood...I will dominate you one day SOON
looking out of Los Angeles from the Observatory
Yes, we had tea with the Mad Hatter
the I got a hair cut from Edward Scissorhands
candid shot of me watching the helicopter on Coronado
Hotel Del Coronado with my friend from home :)
a shot of one of my guy friends...I inspired the picture, Meredith took it
Myself, my big (on the right) and my little (on the left)
my roommate laying next 2 two pizza boxes (=her body size)
picnic in the woods of the Hollywood Hills
beach at Hotel Del
There are so many tests and papers ALL THE TIME!

Haha, it's that time of year again. I'm the silly person who is taking a communication major and dislikes writing papers. Then again, I dislike math and science even more, so this seems like the most practical way out of schooling.

We had spring break a couple of weeks ago...and I went home! It was an epic trip filled with...sleep and family and friends! This may seem lame coming from a college kid so close to the border (and Cabo), but relaxation is great! Maybe I'm just an old woman trapped in a teenager's body, but boy was I happy to see rain and mom's cooking! I have said this before and I will say it again: I never thought I could miss weather so much. But, after a week of straight rain, it was back to San Diego. This time, the weather was in the 80s! Which turned out to be great since we brought a friend from KC back with us!

I'm not sure how I managed to have a blast with her AND go to every class...but it happened! My sister and I even took her up to LA for a day trip last Thursday! We went to Coronado with her, Old Town, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Los Angeles, and GROCERY SHOPPING! Haha, she loved the campus--who wouldn't--and laid out by the pool with my roommate for a few hours even! The weather was so beautiful that for every test we had to study for, we studied outside and got TAN! My skin is so happy with me!!

My friend left on Friday morning (at 4 am) but mind you, the fun didn't stop there! Heck, the fun never stops! Man, do I sound cheesy! But seriously, for every crappy paper or test, there is something relaxing and/or fun to balance it out. Friday I got to NAP, and then the comedian Daniel Tosh played a show on campus! I ran to McDonalds with my sister for filet o fish (of course i go for the crappiest seafood in California, but it was fish friday and I overslept :)) then drove up to campus for the show. We got there REALLY early, but unfortunately I managed to lose my ticket IN THE CAR between the entrance to school and my perfect parking spot. I spent almost half an hour looking for it. The entire time it was wedged underneath a car mat between my seat and the middle console...but at least I found it! Afterwards, it was late enough that I went back to my room and watched American History X with my roommate (which I had never seen before). WATCH IT! It is AMAZING!

Saturday was nice. We had a sophomore pool party at the pool (duh) with music and pizza galore (the pizzas were GIANT). I spent half the day outside, and half the day inside doing homework WISHING I was outside. Good thing most of my homework consisted of critiquing movies otherwise I don't know how I would have survived.

Sunday was initiation for my sorority almost all day...which was actually kind of cool. I've only seen it from the point of view of being initiated, so it was nice to see it from the planning side. That night, we had BIG/LITTLE reveal! All last week, I gave presents to my little and she had to guess who I was basically with the clues that I gave her every day. She did not even read my last clue, she just walked up to me! I was so excited because I gave her the best present on that day: an apron I made myself with lace and a heart pocket! She loves to bake, and so do I, so I can't wait to bake with her! And my big splurged and got Juicy Couture initial necklaces for all three of us! So thoughtful! And of course, what day would be complete without a little frozen yogurt? I had some yummy sorbet with fruit...it was PERFECT!

This week is Greek Week. Every sorority and fraternity pairs up and at the end of the week we have skits (short dance routines) in a competition against each other! Last year, my sorority won, and we are ready for total domination again this year! I can only make it to a few practices, but I am PUMPED! I'm especially excited because my mom will be here to see me! It's mom's weekend this weekend for my sorority! So, yes, I have a ton of homework. But, no, I'm not paying attention to it quite yet. Like I said before...I'm happy with the major I've chosen!

Sooooooo

If you all have any questions or concerns, let me know! I am here to assist you in any way! I check my email about 289738957839647829 times a day!

Thanks!

Cest la vie!

2010-03-04T14:44:00.000-08:00

Naptime in Camino/Founders front lawn!
goofin off before going out...then coming back...in my rain boots!
my roommates, sister and I before Cowtown Throwdown!
Hi Guys!

Sooooo, SPRING BREAK is right around the corner! Like, literally! I have 2 classes tomorrow then I'm headin' home! A lot of people are going to Cabo and such, but I miss home enough to go back for a week! I already have interviews set up, and I will be turning in applications for every job I can. And of course enjoying the snow and family and friends.

A lot has gone on lately, as usual. I went to a fundraiser for Haiti that a fraternity and sorority put on. It was called "Cowtown Throwdown" and it was a farm themed dance/carnival. It was quite a bit of fun! I, of course, have pictures! I went with my twin sister and 2 of my roommates! I also went to a party the other night at my friend's house at the beach. We literally got there and turned back around because it was raining so much! I wore my rain boots and shorts, hahahaha.

The stress in the past 24 hours has been due to HOUSE HUNTING. Apparently, we have the OK from my parents to move into a house on the beach, but we (my sister and I) are trying to decide between a 2 person underneath a 6 person house OR a 3 bedroom house that we could have 4 people in. Our dilemma is if anyone else would be interested in the house, and if anyone would fill in after my sister and I move out first semester (just one semester left and I'm FINISHED!)

So, with that stress, and my packing and cleaning tonight (for RA check-in) I'm delighted to head home! I will be doing tons of sorority and schoolwork, but it will be a nice change of pace! Feel free to get a hold of me and ask questions whenever you'd like! I've been corresponding with a few of you, and I can't wait to see you in the fall!

La La Land

2010-02-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

driving to LA and eating my bagel
we thought we were going East...
The view from Hollywood and Highland shopping
the view from Mack's apartment window
the dressing room at Hot Topic
goofy roommates at a basketball game (we made sure to get on the big screen quite a bit AND my parents saw us on ESPN2...in MISSOURI
MIDTERM TIME! I have had a few projects that have started to take over my life AND midterms...so I got away to Hollywood for the weekend! As I may have mentioned before, one of my good friends is attending music school on Hollywood Blvd after graduating from USD last year. I'm hoping to get into her school for film next spring/summer, but until then, I have her to visit.

Might I say...the drive up there is usually only 2 hours long. And I got out of SD early friday so as not to hit too much traffic. My sister and I took our friend Becca home to see her family, so we met her mom right outside of downtown LA. After that, we had a few hours to kill waiting for our friend to get home. We drove down Santa Monica...ended up at BEVERLY HILLS (pretty sure I almost blacked out at the wheel I was so excited), drove through UCLA's campus, around all over the place, and ended up getting filet-o-fish at McDonalds. Parking everywhere else was OUTRAGEOUS. Took a nap in the car, then our friend called and told us she was almost home, so we could head over. Well, we started heading down Santa Monica, towards where we thought was Hollywood...but ended up at the beach. We ended up being in the car from 2-9!!! So intense, but overall, a good little trip. I know my way around LA now, so that makes me happy!

The rest of the weekend was pretty laid back. Tried my first deep-fried twinkie (a delicacy I won't be having often), went to see Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief (not too shabby), and kinda just hung around.

The one thing that got me out of this whole experience (besides the weirdos that hang out around Hollywood...I love people watching there) is that Johnny Depp was FEET away from me and I didn't know it! This is the third time in the last 7 months that has happened! The first time was in London, and the second was in Anaheim. GRRRRR. O well, I got a Johnny Depp Alice in Wonderland poster and that is enough for me...for now.

My roommate and I have a list of people we want to find (/stalk) around the Hollywood area. I'm hoping that if I go to film school there next summer after graduation, she might move there for the summer with me and we can go on adventures.

It was an amazing weekend, and it has really lifted my spirits for this week. The weather is beautiful and I have only one test. My RHA council just has a "Naptime in the Courtyard" event in front of Camino/Founders dorm where anyone could stop by and nap with us, or just grab some cookies that we provided. Tonight I have Sorority new member induction, thursday my sorority is having sushi with one of the fraternities, and then RHA is having broomball Thursday night. Saturday is a beach cleanup and sorority sports day. And sunday I have planned for my friend to come help us/teach us to make Filipino food. We are EXCITED.

Life here never has a dull moment...Public Safety just sped by with their lights and sirens!

I'm goign to go check out what's up! I will update later!!

Erin

Blast from the past!

2010-02-10T18:52:00.001-08:00

My best guy friend here at school, my date to Theta Love!
The Valentine I made for mom! Shhh don't tell her!
A bunch of my friends before my sorority dance!
The birthday cake I made for my best friend from kindergarten!
Best friends since 5 years old, together at college!
a KC BBQ place in downtown San Diego! Taste of home!
A girl playing violin at Sonic...so weird
the way I asked Bryan to the dance!
So, my roommates and I were watching Say Yes to the Dress the other night...and this is what happened...I found the dress I like
a rugby ref...too many things are running through my mind right now
myself and a new sorority sister at SONICE

The past week and a half has been such a rush! I finally have my schedule for the ENTIRE semester worked out! Almost every weekend is filled with something fun at school and people visiting me! There are a ton of application due dates coming up and homework is rearing it's ugly head at me, but I'm determined to be a little more on top of things this semester so that I can do the fun things and everything that I have on my schedule (I will just tell you that iCal on the Mac is my lifesaver).

Besides my weeks with 4 communication classes, one ethics class, sorority meeting, multiple RHA meetings, a couple of shifts at work, and drop in gym times, my weekends are hectic but a blast!

This past weekend was especially great because my best friend from kindergarten came down to SD to visit my sister and I and be my sister's date to a sorority dance (I took my downstairs neighbor Bryan). Introducing her to everyone really made me realize the home I have developed here at school!

O, and last weekend, I went on a Sonic adventure with a couple of my sorority sisters...but did I mention that already? THAT was fun...we definitely went on an adventure, and then came back to my apartment for old movies!

Coming up? Well, this week has in store for me:

Thirsty Thursdays (root beer floats served by some of the students for FREE)

Dance Thursdays (dance party for students on Thursday night with pizza and drinks FREE)

Breakfast with my RA (FREE)

A date with one of my new sorority sisters to Fiji yogurt down the hill (FREE--I earned coupons :))

Zumba workout class on campus with my roommates (FREE)

Trying out a NEW kind of dance downtown! (not free, but sounds o so fun and NEW)

Basketball game Saturday (FREE to students)

Volleyball tournament at UCSD Sunday (maybe a couple bucks, but fun with my roommates!)

And I'm still trying to decide if I am getting another piercing tonight. And maybe roommate dinner on Sunday? We are single and excited to watch action movies/comedies and the NBA All Star weekend!

Well guys, this is my cue to sign off, as I seem to have quite a bit of reading to do before some fun at big group meeting for RHA tonight! Please do not hesitate to get ahold of my with any questions or comments! I am here for you!

Ek is lief virjou,

Erin Schneider!!!

The tides are turning

2010-01-26T15:09:00.001-08:00

Thetas outside on campus
Trying to pick up our Theta sign
The new Student Life Pavilion!
Holding up signs for the new pledges!
Our sorority bid day activity: Sunset harbor cruise
Coronado bridge!
caught me laughing
The sun setting over Coronado Island
part of downtown San Diego at sunset
Our Kappa Alpha Theta chapter!
The sunset from my on-campus apartment window
Hola!

Here I am, sitting at work at the UC Front Desk, and I am happy as can be! It's not a facade...though it may look like one with a few things that have been going on in my life. Break was wonderful by the way. I love Christmas. I love how it is an excuse for families to be together and for people to be happy and for love to seep out of the dark crevices of life. Every Christmas just keeps getting better, as I find it a treat to spend time with my family, not a chore. I received some amazing gifts, but my favorite part is giving gifts. I love knowing what to get someone for a gift...it's always great to realize just how much I know a person, and then to see the smile on their face reach their eye balls. I love that it snowed at home (back in ole KC, MO) and that I spent all day in my brand new footie pjs (that's right. Light pinky, bunny pjs with bunny-faced footies, "Christmas Story" stylel).

New Year's was a blast as well. I tend to keep it toned-down on that night every year. Spending time with good friends is a must, and making sure to call friends from school is a double must! This year was a little different because 2 of my best friends--also my neighbors--actually came out to San Diego for vacation over New Years. Of course, I wasn't here, so I was a little home sick even while I was at home! It was great, however, facebook stalking them to see that they have been to all the places that I frequent while here: Balboa Park, Mission Beach, Coronado Island, etc. While they were out here in the balmy San Diego sun, I was at home in 3 feet of snow. I did get to try skiing out for the first time, and went sledding with my brother multiple times, having a blast! But, at the same time, when I found myself snowed-in, not allowed to drive on the icy streets, my mind would wander to San Diego. Yes, I have my fair share of complaints about school while I am here, but I am more than elated with my decision to attend school at USD.

After my month of philandering around Kansas City, Missouri, I came back to Cali for Sorority Recruitment. We had a spirit week of preparation for formal recruitment, followed by recruitment week, so I have been here for a week and a half prior to classes beginning yesterday. It has been wonderful to settle back into my room, and even spend some time in a room by myself! When I am at home, I tend to stick around my family and friends, but a little alone time never hurt anyone! Especially after long days of dancing and singing and joyous sorority activity in heels!

Unfortunately, this past friday, I had something unfortunate happen in my family. Of course, I cried a little, as almost anyone would do in my situation. And, being so far away from home kills me in tough situations. But my sorority sisters, roommates, and good friends I have made at the university have all opened their arms to me. It's great that I can see someone and automatically get a hug without expecting it. People really feel for me and my family, and I can read it in their faces and hear it in their: "If you ever need to talk"s and "Everything happens for a reason"s. It's comforting to know that people are praying for me, and that people can flat out cry with me, for they know what has happened in my life is unfortunate and unjust. They can do all of this with the true thought that I would do the same for them in any unfortunate situation that may come their way. These people are who I live with. They are who I share my ups and downs with. They are my home away from home.

After last year's bout with homesickness, I never thought that I would feel comfortable here. No matter the weather, the water, the proximity to amazing things, I never thought I could call it home. But home is where your heart is, and with so many people on my side here at school, it would be a lie to say that I don't leave part of my heart with the people in San Diego when I go back to my family in Kansas City.

Ladies and gents: If you are on the fence about coming to the University of San Diego based on proximity to your family, go for it. Your family will always be there and visits will be even greater. I must admit, I have a very close family, and we even fought quite a bit before I headed to college. But, since coming here, we don't fight. I believe it has everything to do with our proximity and a much needed break. You could come out here and love it or you could come out here and hate it. Either way, you need to do it to say you've done it. You can always go home, but if you don't try it out, you could regret it in your future.

So, as classes start for me and the college decision looms near in your future, just know that once here, life is what you make it. I have started a semester of classes that I already absolutely adore (and myself having early on-set senioritis, this is amazing that I like anything about school!) and am spending quality time with people I have really grown to care for in the past year and a half. No matter where you end up, you can do this too. College and life in general is what you make it. If you need any help decision-wise, please feel free to contact me.

Thanks guys!!

Erin

Give Thanks!

2009-11-29T19:43:00.000-08:00

SOOOOO much happens all the time I just can't even update on it all constantly!

Of course, I should have updated already in the past couple weeks, but it completely slipped my mind! I just got home from thanksgiving at my house and 2 weeks before that dad was here for my sorority's dad's weekend, and 2 weeks before that I was homeeeee! And, of course, our apartment here on campus is going to smart smelling and looking like Christmas! Right now, we still have Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations, but I have some lights to put up AND I bought candles that smell like pine trees :)

The location here is SUPERB. By that, I mean school of course. It was amazing--though traffic was annoying--to drive up the coast to LA last weekend on the 5, watching the sunset, then dancing to loud music with my sister so I wouldn't fall asleep at the wheel in stand-still traffic. We went up to stay with my friend who just moved up off of Hollywood Boulevard after graduating here. I am really excited because she is going to a music college that I am going to go to for film production next year after graduation :) Anywaysssss, we hung out with her friday night and had some odd experiences, but it was totally worth it and I want to go up to Los Angeles more! The next day I got to see my granny for lunch before heading to LAX to go home! Stayed for a week, and just got back today! Next weekend, I have formal on Friday, DISNEYLAND on Saturday (to see Christmas decorations) and training on Sunday for Recruitment for next semester! I'm actually really looking forward to everything!

O, and this is something that I wrote for Thanksgiving, since it's that time of year :)

I am thankful for every decision I have ever made. I am thankful for every decision you have ever made. I have decided to open up to you and let my guard down, while you have decided to accept me as a friend and open your arms for me. I love the course my life has taken thus far, and that you are part of it. Even with all of the mistakes I have made, and all of the pitfalls I have lived through, the disappointment and discouragement, I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world. I love that you have been here through some part of this journey, and I hope you continue through the rest of it.

Anyways, PICTURE TIME! More questions please, I love questions and answer them all!!!

Dad's Weekend Harbor Brunch Cruise!

All 3 of us

Torero Football game with dad!

Running from a ZOMBIE! (my friend Mitchell...he's seen Zombieland a few too many times)

Pretending to paint a house in Old Town on Halloween night...I'm a painter, get it now?

Biting my roommate on Halloween Night...Yeah, I have a problem

One side of my pumpkin :)

I made a candy skull for Day of the Dead in the SLP!

The sign my family made for me for winning Homecoming Princess :)

London Calling!

2009-11-09T21:51:00.000-08:00

SOOOOO

I went to London this summer. How does this have anything to do with the here and now? Well, USD is ranked 6th in the nation for sending students abroad! I am only in my second year at school here and have already traveled and studied abroad! It is one of the most thrilling experiences I have ever had, and I hope that I can do this more than once more in my life! In fact, I am now looking into being an au pair while working in film in London for a while! The possibilities are endless, and it's all because of one 3 week experience overseas.

I took the class "British Media Systems". We had class for about 2 hours a day Monday-Thursday with field trips in the afternoon. We had 3 day weekends, chances to travel to even more countries, and experiences that will last a lifetime. I sound so cheesy, it's insane, but it makes me so happy to think about! I did not have one bad experience, and it included schooling! Believe you me, class is not my favorite thing in the world, but our teacher made this trip amazing. We toured film studios, the BBC, the Guardian newspaper, a film museum, and more! My weekend trips included Oxford, Wimbledon, and SCOTLAND. I saw Jenna Fischer from the Office (RIGHT before she got engaged!), saw Andy Murray play at Wimbledon, saw the castle from the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and stood front row at the red carpet premiere of the new Harry Potter!!!!!! It was overwhelmingly BEAUTIFUL!

If anyone ever has questions about the International Abroad programs, I can help you! Also, make sure to visit that portion of the site, and ask about it on your tour here on campus! You never know what could come of it...the possibilities are endless!

the classic pose in front of Big Ben!

The Beatles' drum set at the Movieum Museum!

My sister next to...the GOBLET OF FIRE from the fourth Harry Potter! (Movieum)

Pub time! A complementary drink from the security guard!

lovely view of the Thames river!

Our USD London group! try to find me!

Camden Market

I have more pictures on Facebook! Look me up and make sure you message me that you are looking at USD so I will accept! I tend to befriend people I know, haha.

If you have any questions or comments at all, let me know! I love feedback!

And boy do I love life and USD

Erin

It's a brand new day!

2009-10-29T09:23:00.001-07:00

Hey guys!

Yes, it's another year. Actually, it's over halfway through the first semester of my sophomore/junior year! Odd? Yes. I am graduating a full year early (May 2011) and will be finished with classes a semester before graduating! (January 2011) As you can imagine, I am anxious, and I already have senioritis (a year and a half removed from high school!).

Anyways, I apologize, that is what has been on my mind as I plan my schedule for Spring semester. Right this very moment I am working at the UC Front Desk, and directly after this I work for the school newspaper, The Vista, followed by a sorority Panhellenic meeting and Leadership class! Tonight, I have stretch class and BROOMBALL! As you can tell, life is busy busy busy, and I'm soaking it all in! Have I gotten much sleep? No! But what college student does? I live for the small cat naps I can find between all the fun I'm having!

This semester has been a rush. I hold 2 leadership positions in my sorority, another in Residential Hall Association, Student Ambassadors, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, National Society of Leadership and Success, Lambda Pi Eta (Communication Honor Society), work, work, and more work. O, and did I mention classes? And my classes this year have been great! If you ever need assistance choosing classes or professors, I am here for you! I have been really lucky with it all! In fact, for my fall semester, I planned my schedule in a very unconventional way! I looked up the finals schedule and am only taking classes that have early finals so I can leave 4 days before everyone else! MUHAHAHHAHA.

I thought it was pretty genius.

Now, I will offer you a montage of pictures from this fall of all the amazing things I have done! I have been so scatter-brained up to this point (especially in this post), but I would love for you to see some more highlights! It's difficult to fit so much of a year into one post!

View of Tecolote Canyon

Yes, I got an action shot of my friend, Mark, from Las Vegas, playing beach volleyball (Vegas is a 5 hours drive)

My friend, Dani's reaction to my roommate, Brittany, getting her ear pierced :)

Late night burritos by the beach!

Surprised my sister and took her to the Disney Expo in Anaheim (40 minutes from school)...and this is one of the Disney stars, Sterling Knight!

Eagen Plaza by the Jenny Craig Pavilion! (phone picture, still amazing!)

Mom drove to school with us (the full 25 hours) and we took her to La Jolla Coves (10 minutes from school)

The view from my Vista apartment window. We get to watch the fire works from Sea World over the school horizon in the Fall and Spring! (Sea World=5 minutes from school!)

Feel free to ask questions, I will be answering some in the next couple of blog spots! I will also be sharing my study abroad experience in Europe, homecoming activities, Halloween things, and many more!

Thanks!

GO TOREROS!

It's the Final Countdown!

2009-05-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MAY!

Yes, I began this post on April 30th, but I got distracted (ahhh arguments about the Kansas City Chiefs being better than the 49ers via facebook). The last couple of days have been really nice! I am now officially the Scholarship Chair of my sorority next semester AND am co-chair of dad's weekend! I am going to have SO much fun with that one! Yesterday I met with my advisor. It was a nice little meeting, considering I have already signed up for all of my classes! I am pumped for classes net semester! I am still loving the fact that I'm still on track to graduate early! (considering I have only been offered 1 scholarship from the school for the coming year instead of 2. I will be appealing for financial aid! haha). I had a little down time (imagine that!) and got to play Wii Fit for about an hour! It was amazing, and I am pumped to do that instead of studying for finals! Whoo hoo!

Today, I ran around like a chicken with my head cut off. I had meeting after meeting. I had my pre-departure London meeting, and can not wait to book my flight! There is going to be so much going on in the 3 week period that I am there to study abroad this summer! It's going to be an experience like none other! I also met as a representative of RHA with a consultant today to improve student government and relations here at USD. It went very smoothly, and I think that next year is going to be a big improvement that will only lead to a better student community! I cannot encourage everyone enough to get involved and do something cool on campus! I even did something cool on campus tonight and I went to see the spring play, Anonymous! It was so abstract, and I loved it! Especially watching 5 of my close friends perform! I almost teared up at one point, and I don't even remember why!

I love it here. But I also love summer. 3 weeks to go!

Toodles!!

Erin

Hit the Ground RUNNINGGGGG

2009-04-26T01:25:00.000-07:00

My lovely dates and I before STOPLIGHT
Opening number at Mr. U
Mr. RA, winner of Mr. U 2009 (Tom Gallagher)
that, right here, is talent!
Sister and I in front of our lovely backdrop!
the time-consuming balloon arch...complete!
It IS a Small World After All!
On Roger Rabbit!
Ran into a parade of characters on our way in...
The most adorable picture I think I have ever taken...and I don't even know the kids!
Opening presents in the hotel the night before our birthday and Disneyland! She wanted a sweater with her initials like Mrs. Weasley would make in Harry Potter...so I sewed initials on a sweater for her!
At beautiful Meredith;s photo shoot for Greek Yearbook! Theta Most likely to be Rich and Famous! DUH
Hello All!

Boy, do I just continue to get busier and busier! What have I been up to lately? Well, for a quick overview...

I WENT HOME for Easter! It was so much fun! My little brother was in a play and my sister and I surprised him by going home! I love all of my family and friends there, but I love how I am establishing an independent life here! And, like I said, a busy one at that! When I got back, I hit the ground running.

Right before Easter I interviewed for an RHA Executive position and GOT IT! I am now the Director of Communications. This means that I get to keep in contact with schools on a national level! I'm so excited to start! I have already began transitioning with my predecessor and attending meetings and such. One of the perks of earning such a position is that I got to be one of the first people to choose my room for next year!

I will be in a wonderful room in the Vistas with an amazing view! Boy, and I pumped! I will finally have a kitchen! I signed up with a roommate that I know from my hallway (and my RHA board this year) and we signed to have 2 random people live with us. And, what do you know, one of our friends took the other spot! Now I am even more excited, because I know that we will all be able to chip in and decorate however we want! I already have this vision of framing magazine pictures of our favorite actors and comedians to look like art! We have so many ideas, and the anxiety is taking over!

This past week, in addition to the celebration of my 19th birthday at Disneyland, my sorority held our annual Mr. University man pageant! It was a fundraiser for our philanthropy, C.A.S.A., and we raised more money than EVER before...$21,000+!!! For a week, it was hard work being on the decorations committee! A couple of us got together and cranked out a FREE-HANDED backdrop in 2 loooong nights, and then, on the day of the pageant, I worked with a couple other ladies from 2:30 until showtime (at 8) on the decorations in the venue (which mainly consisted of balloons...hundreds of balloons. I made my first balloon arch, and by the beginning of the show, my fingers were swollen and bleeding from tying so many of them, o the things I do for my ladies...). Like I said, it was a success, and it was so much fun!

Ending the rough-n-tough week was a dance Friday night called stoplight (so much fun!). I got to take 2 of my best friends and we danced the night away! So far, I think it was the best DJ yet, which added to my happiness! And tonight, after visiting with my uncle from out of town today and taking a nap with some of my friends on the lawn, I watched the Office with my sister and then a few of us went on an adventure to the new Sonic about 20 minutes away. What a way to end a hectic week! A laid back night is just what I needed!

This next month is not going to slow down...but I'm ready! I will keep you posted!

All my love!

Erin

Topsy Turvy!!

2009-03-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

S'mores on the cliffs at Point Loma
A couple of the guys re-enacting our Greek Skit on the cliffs
the boys look like they are on a date!
At my friend's house with my best friend and twin!
INFLATABLES
So...life is back on track! This past week has been even more hectic than the week before! Why? It was my very first Greek Week! I had different activities going on every single day AND normal classes, AND Greek Skit practice for at least 3 hours every evening! Oh, that plus a sinus infection equals a recipe for disaster. I took as much medication that I could to tolerate my schedule, and I didn't miss out on one thing!

Friday was the most exciting part of my academic week: Greek Skits! Each sorority was matched up with a fraternity to devise and spend hours practicing a dance routine. This year's theme was video games, so the boys seemed to get pretty into them! My sorority won first place in skits and second place in all of Greek Week (this means that we had high participation in the weekly events and collected the most canned goods). Here--> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcDaa8fpJ1E is the link to the video of our dance!!

Friday and Saturday were interesting to say the least. Some friends visited and a group of us went to a friend's house on friday night. Saturday we went to the beach all day, then we had a cookout at the cliffs at Point Loma that night. Sunday, my sister and I went to a concert at the House of Blues with a couple of friends. It wasn't all necessarily "my kind" of music, but live bass gives me the BEST feeling in the world! I also took care of one of my younger brother's birthday presents when I bought him a concert shirt!

This week is full of application, scholarships, and meetings galore, on top of it, it is RHA (Residents Hall Association) and LIFE week!

RHA Week Monday--Inflatables day

Tuesday--Tie Dye day

Wednesday--Softball game with prizes

Friday--Battle of the Bands (winner gets to record in a studio!)

Life Week is bringing multiple speakers and movies to campus (including "Slumdog Millionaire"). And, of course, I can't forget that I am hosting incoming freshman overnighters on Thursday night as well as attending a scholarship luncheon. Think you will run out of things to do here? Think again...

A (wo)man's gotta do what a (wo)man's gotta do...

ERIN!

Berkeley Much Anyone?

2009-03-25T01:30:00.000-07:00

Gonzaga game...we lost, but all's fair in love and war!
Before our "Shamrock your Socks Off!" dance!
work those suspenders!!!
Activism.

That is the story of my life at the moment. I have been working on a couple of on-campus issues recently, and then there is a BIG event I will be partaking in. On April 25th, I will be "kidnapping" myself, along with thousands of other people (and my sorority). We will spend about 24 hours in Balboa Park waiting to be "rescued". This is all being organized through the student-led organization "Invisible Children". Students all across the world are in this club, and as such will hold events nearly identical to the one at Balboa. The purpose of this "kidnapping" is to raise awareness of the kidnappings of children in Africa and their being forced to become child soldiers. Over 32,000 have been recorded missing over the last 10 years...and that's only the ones that have been recorded! We will also be writing our government and the United Nations so that they may arrest/support the arrest of the rebel leader in Africa. This is a big deal. This has become a great interest of mine that I plan on turning into a passion. I believe that each person should fight for what they believe in, even if it's risky. I have especially found that supporting the people you care about the most is something that everyone should make a priority. Everyone.

Another big move I will be making soon...my transition back into the Music Group's main gang. I've been on sort of a hiatus (not of my own choosing), so it will be great to be working alongside the music again, especially when we have DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL headlining our Alcala Music Festival this spring! As always, the dates are TBA/TBD and so are the remaining bands...surprise!

This week is Greek week. We have had so many events! Next week is RHA week and it is the same way! jfidls;jk; I need to get some shut-eye!

Please shoot me a line with any questions, comments, or concerns, my ears are always open!

Go out to eat, then do it again! Man I love college!

Erin

The Good Life

2009-02-27T10:19:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies and Gents!

Busy, busy, busy month!

This past week has been Midterms galore! But, it's completely OK! Yes, I've been studying a lot, but there is room for fun! I had my first sorority dance a couple of weeks ago, and it was a blast! Wow, I write with so many EXCLAMATION points! It was really exciting to get all dolled up and go out though; that is definitely something I miss about high school. I have also been getting to know the ladies, and ladies from other sororities. It is a very nice break from school.

This past weekend, I was invited to a Greek leadership retreat as the "Rising Star" of my 2009 pledge class. A number of fraternity and sorority members were taken up into the mountains to a camp (and there was snow! I haven't seen that since I left home in January!) where we spent the weekend addressing our issues and strengths as groups. It was a ton of fun! I got to meet some of the fraternity men that I haven't had the privilege to meet yet. On Sunday, I got to come back to my dorm room and watch the Oscars with my roommates and sister. It was so much better this year (especially with a cameo by Robert Pattinson!). Haha, but let's not get into the Oscars...

Like I mentioned before, this week has been busy. I interviewed my little brother and my dad over video chat and wrote a paper on the interview for my Introduction to Media class. It was a fun concept: interview people of different generations about the toys they played with as children. The paper has been looming over me for a couple of weeks and I refused to write it until the night before...of course. I have also been reading the play "As You Like It" in my Shakespeare class, and we are even talking about Kansas City, Missouri (my hometown!) in my Introduction to American Popular Music class.

Yesterday, we held our very first SPRING Alcala Bazaar. Usually we only have one every fall semester. Just to fill you in, the Alcala Bazaar is a time slot when all of the student organizations set up informational tables (along with free STUFF) in the middle of campus. This is a great way to learn about different things you want to jump into, especially as a freshman. In the fall, the Bazaar also includes outside businesses and organizations with free items as well! Yesterday, there was a blood drive sponsored by one of our Fraternities: Beta Theta Pi. I was able to give blood for the first time in a couple of months (which is EXTREMELY exciting, because my iron has been too low the past couple of times). It was a beautiful day, and it was wonderful to walk around to each booth and recognize people.

That's one thing that I really enjoy about USD: you will always run into someone you know. I have true conversations with people multiple times a day. I love the smiles, the waves, and yelling peoples' names across campus as I spot them. The sense of familiarity is a great comfort.

This weekend, hopefully, will be a little more laid back than the past couple of weeks. Tonight, I am going to volunteer at a special needs prom, and then headed back to campus for ?? Tomorrow I have RA group interviews in the morning and the mens' basketball game against GONZAGA tomorrow afternoon! It is the only sold out game of the year, and it will be one of the best games!

Everyone! Do NOT hesitate to contact me! I will never lead you astray!

Truth be told I miss you...

Erin

We're BAaACK

2009-02-02T21:56:00.001-08:00

Hey guys!

So, here it is, round two: and by that I mean second semester! I have been here for almost 2 weeks! Bizarre! I went through Sorority Recruitment for about a week. That was quite the experience! The week was overwhelming, but I met so many new girls! It may seem like H-E-double hockey sticks for someone to be around mainly girls for a week, but believe me, it IS attainable! I pledged Kappa Alpha Theta, and have been quite the busy-body! I have added this to my already busy schedule. I have spent my time running from meeting to meeting, but I still get my cat-naps in-between J !

My class schedule is quite intriguing this semester. I have a class on Shakespeare. Right now, we are reading Romeo and Juliet (for like the billionth time), only we are delving into the language and looking at the romance as merely a lustful teenage couple. It is quite a way to look at something that I once thought to be one of the greatest love stories of all time! Another class I’m taking is entitled “Introduction to American Popular Music”. Yes, it IS as awesome as it sounds! We are REQUIRED to attend popular music concerts and write at least one review. Can you say Heaven? My Introduction to Media class makes me wake up on the correct side of the bed every Tuesday and Thursday morning, even though the class is at 7:45. Right now, we are studying Barbies! One other class that I absolutely ADORE is my fitness class called: Abs and Toning! It makes me feel every muscle in my body, and I just feel rejuvenated!

Wow, I completely sound like the worst advertisement in the history of ads! But I’m completely serious! Though I’m running in a million different directions, I love my life! In my free time I go to a piano room in Camino and play Disney songs and songs from “Sound of Music”. Right now, I am learning “Bella’s Lullaby” from the movie Twilight. Also, in what little free-time I have, I lay out on the lawn, take walks, and write. I have found inspirations for writing in my every-day life!

Ok, that is all the time I have for now. Let me know if you saw the local USD commercial during the Superbowl! That was probably the best part of the game—well, that and a couple Doritos commercials—and I could hear the whole campus applauding that we got a Superbowl spot!

You can continue to contact me as often as you wish! I’m an open pool of information, I PINKY SWEAR!

Live Your Life!

Erin

2009-01-09T14:42:00.001-08:00

It’s that time of the year. Application upon application sent out, floods of college mail coming in. For me, it was an exhilarating time, really. Acceptance letters coming from schools such as NYU, Gonzaga, and Loyola Marymount and Chicago (just to name a few). Oh yes, I’ve been in your position, and boy was I scared. But then, my letter from the University of San Diego. The “white fortress on the hill”, as my fellow Missourians often referred to it. I would like to think that it was an easy decision, to pick up my things and move 1,500 miles away from my family, friends, and everything I have ever made for myself here in Kansas City. I was torn between two schools, but I knew that this is where I was supposed to be…my dream to move back to California was going to be a reality.

Here I am, one year later. The question now isn’t “Where are you going to college?”, it’s “Are you going to stay there?” And, as you decide which university you would like to attend, I’m going to share with you why I am choosing to stick with my decision and continue my schooling at the University of San Diego.

1. I have made a second home here. The first few weeks were difficult. I left my family, friends, a steady couple of jobs, and an internship behind. I cried a couple of times, but I realized I would have done that anywhere. I knew I needed to start completely fresh in an unfamiliar place, so I could have a better sense of myself in a wide range of environments. My roomies and I bonded instantly, and I put up pictures to remind me of home. I jumped right into my schooling, and, most importantly, I began to take part in school activities.

2. I have made wonderful friends that will last a lifetime. Cheesy, huh? But, as soon as I joined some clubs and talked to a few classmates, I started to build some really unique relationships. Even the RAs in my building are some of my best friends at school! I cannot stress enough how important it is to dive in head-first and just talk to everyone! Smile, wave, look people in the eye…so many people are new, so everyone is in the same position trying to make friends!

3. The University of San Diego has taken all of my dual credit transfer credits from high school! For those of you who don’t know, dual credit hours consist of college classes taken during high school that count towards both college and high school graduation. So, even though I am registered as a freshman, I am almost at junior status! USD also takes most ACCP credits! It is so exciting because many people didn’t accept them! Of course, this is not solely why I chose to come here, but it’s a nice perk!

4. Location, location, location! I love where my second home is! Not only because the school is on a cliff overlooking the ocean, or because it is sunny nearly all the time, but also because of the opportunities surrounding me! I am so close to a Disney hub, to Los Angeles, to record labels and production companies! I have a wide variety of careers that I can look into and consider! There are also a million things to do in San Diego and on campus! I have been to concerts both on and off campus, as well as tried many new things and celebrated in many fun areas! Exploring the small areas around school and the different beaches, as well as Balboa Park and the city are just so much fun!

5. I’m having fun. I love life. I thank God every day for who I have become and the opportunities I have been presented with!

So, if you haven’t decided yet, maybe you are going through a tough time with everything, just consider what I am saying, a year replaced from where you are at now. If you need any other help, feel free to email me!

MmBop!

Erin