Hello from Siberia!
Ok, so I'm not really in Siberia, its more Arctic than that. We're experiencing our first negative tempature days of the year up here at Luther, and let me tell you, it is not a fun walk from Olson (my residence hall), to the Union (source of life on campus), to the music building (center of all life on campus...sort of), and back. I kind of forgot that I'm still going to college in Iowa, and hats and gloves are pretty much winter prerequisites to living here. Note to self: beg parents for a parka and mucklucks.
So, I decided that the most effective use of my last two blogs (not that I can't write more) before Christmas break would be to fill everyone in on what exactly goes down during college final preparation here at Luther.
Disclaimer: I am not an average Luther college student.
Saturday (aka "reading day" [see below for explanation])
Sleep
Juries! (see explanation 2)
Subway
Juries!
Dinner
Facebook
Study
Study/Facebook
Study/Facebook
Facebook
Facebook
Facebook
Sleep
Sunday (aka cram everything before tomorrow day)
Sleep
McDonalds
Study
Study
coffee break
Study
Study/Facebook (not again....)
Study!
Dinner
Freeze my butt off
Study
Study/Facebook
Study/Facebook
Facebook
Shower
Facebook
Blog
Facebook
Sleep
Monday (finals for most everyone else....not for me-day!)
Now, reading that, you are probably wondering how in the world I got anything done with all that facebook time. Well, you're right, I didn't get a lot of things done while I was on facebook. Thats the problem with wireless internet, you just can't avoid your social networking sites. However, I did get a lot of studying done when I wasn't reading about who just tagged 16 of their friends in a note, or who has the angstiest status.
I have 4 finals. On Tuesday, I have my music theory, ear training, and developmental psychology finals. What a day, eh? And then on Wednesday, all the first year students have their Paideia final at the same time. I honestly think its scheduled that way so that there is a vibe of mutual suffering from all the first years ringing throughout the campus for a solid 2 hours. Honestly, the Paideia final is painless if you're prepared. At least thats what I think the Ghost of Christmas Future was trying to tell me last night.
So, as we draw to the end of this blog, as in classic "formal" writing form, I told you what I was going to tell you, then I told you , now I'm going to remind you what I told you. (If you've no idea about what that means, ask your English teacher.)
Basically, finals are only stressful if you let them stress you out. I feel that I, for once, was responsible about starting my studying before the night before my exams, and I think that that has significantly affected my view on finals. However, if you find yourself studying and tempted to check facebook every 10 minutes, I'll save you the trouble: Nothing happened.
Now, as promised, I will explain the two earlier mentioned "college terms."
Reading day isn't all that exciting. It's just basically the title that Luther gives to a specific day preceding the start of finals in which 24 hour "quiet" hours are enforced. This really helps a lot of students get motivated to start studying early because of lack of excessive noise in the dorms and around campus.
I can't remember if I already mentioned juries, but I'm too lazy to go back and check my previous blogs, so I'll explain it for the first time/again. You recieve credit-hours for taking any lessons during a semester. However, each class you get credit-hours for requires a grade, and juries are like a final exam for private lessons.
Ach!
I kind of covered a lot in this blog, so if any of you have questions about some of the things I mentioned (except for what I ate at McDonalds) I will be happy to answer them or direct you to someone who can. You can contact me through my e-mail:
watsja02@luther.edu
Well, I'm going to go catch some zzz's before another day of studying!
Wish me Luck!
Jake
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Black Friday
Happy National-Credit-Card-Debt-Exponentially-Increases-on-This-Day Day!
After 8 hours of shopping, I feel it is my solemn duty to update you on how my break is going. Actually, after 8 hours, I'm at another family thanksgiving BORED OUT OF MY MIND. So, I figured that I'd write an update and post it when I actually return to civilization from this middle of nowhere place in Western Iowa!
Regardless, I spent most of my hard earned work-study and accompaniment money today. Not smart choice # 1 of the day. Then, I proceeded to have not one, not two, but 3 Venti Caramel Macchiatos AND a Grande Mocha, which came at a close # 2 not smart choice. And, on a lighter note, my #3 was eating 12 pieces of pie...among other things. That binge is by no means reflectant of how the food at Luther is, but, nothing EVER beats a home cooked meal.
(Tangent)
If you don't appreciate them now, start appreciating them. Once you start up next year, its hello 2 meals a day of salad bar, potatoes and chicken. Ok, so that's an exaggeration, but if you get the chance ever, actually come up and eat in the Luther Caf. or any of the other fine dining services we have on campus. My personal favorite: Cream-Cheese Cinnamon Rolls from Sunnyside Cafe.
Anyways, the big thing I learned from break is that I was not near enough prepared to see all of my family. I don't mean emotionally, but mentally. I had, at minimum, 50 people ask how school was going, and I couldn't seem to break from the strict regiment of "Good, thanks" 's. Next year, stock up on any stories that you can share with your family. Whether it's the time you hit your head on the ceiling of your room, or the 210th time you hit your head on the ceiling, it doesn't matter. All they want to hear is something besides "Good, thanks."
You've been warned.
Well, I hope you all have a great remainder of whatever Thanksgiving Break is left for you.
Later!
Jake
After 8 hours of shopping, I feel it is my solemn duty to update you on how my break is going. Actually, after 8 hours, I'm at another family thanksgiving BORED OUT OF MY MIND. So, I figured that I'd write an update and post it when I actually return to civilization from this middle of nowhere place in Western Iowa!
Regardless, I spent most of my hard earned work-study and accompaniment money today. Not smart choice # 1 of the day. Then, I proceeded to have not one, not two, but 3 Venti Caramel Macchiatos AND a Grande Mocha, which came at a close # 2 not smart choice. And, on a lighter note, my #3 was eating 12 pieces of pie...among other things. That binge is by no means reflectant of how the food at Luther is, but, nothing EVER beats a home cooked meal.
(Tangent)
If you don't appreciate them now, start appreciating them. Once you start up next year, its hello 2 meals a day of salad bar, potatoes and chicken. Ok, so that's an exaggeration, but if you get the chance ever, actually come up and eat in the Luther Caf. or any of the other fine dining services we have on campus. My personal favorite: Cream-Cheese Cinnamon Rolls from Sunnyside Cafe.
Anyways, the big thing I learned from break is that I was not near enough prepared to see all of my family. I don't mean emotionally, but mentally. I had, at minimum, 50 people ask how school was going, and I couldn't seem to break from the strict regiment of "Good, thanks" 's. Next year, stock up on any stories that you can share with your family. Whether it's the time you hit your head on the ceiling of your room, or the 210th time you hit your head on the ceiling, it doesn't matter. All they want to hear is something besides "Good, thanks."
You've been warned.
Well, I hope you all have a great remainder of whatever Thanksgiving Break is left for you.
Later!
Jake
Monday, November 24, 2008
Yes...I did fall off the earth
Hello readers!
Thanksgiving break starts this Wednesday! Naturally, that means that already, 50% of campus has left. Thats one of the great things about having this "every-other day" schedule of classes. A lot of the time, you can swing it where you don't have any classes on Tuesdays or Thursdays. However, I was not so lucky. I have an 8:30 am class every Tuesday to Thursday. Woo hoo...
Apart from being stranded on campus here with a few upper classmen and the faculty, I'm doing great. I recently registered for my J-term and Spring classes. I'm pretty much taking all the same classes; Paideia, Music Theory, Ear Training, and my Ensembles. But I added a religion course. I'm not registered for this "Intro to the New Testament" class. I also changed my mind on my J-Term class. Instead of taking a 6 hour course that satisfied none of my graduation requirements, I'm taking a 2 hour course (average) that satisfies 3 of my graduation requirements. Its called "The Rise and Development of Black Nationalism." We'll see how it goes.
As far as now goes, all I can say is Christmas at Luther. I'm pretty sure that this upcoming event owns 99.9% of my life.
Actually, that would be untrue, the real percentage should be 100%.
We now have mandatory Sunday night rehearsals for 2 hours. Next Sunday when we get back from Break, we have a 6 hour rehersal. I. Love. Christmas. Sometimes.
Now that we're having these mass choir rehearsals though, I can hear what the music actually sounds like, so its "sort of" a motivation to keep working on my part in the music. I think that we get to practice with the full symphony on this coming Sunday. That should be pretty cool.
I also cashed my first check today, and it feels like a million dollars. You know when they say that college students are usually broke. Well...I was. And let me tell you, going 2 months without anything but your mooching abilities and dining dollars SUCKS. Either way, cashing that check (work study) was like a breath of financial freedom again. We'll see how long it lasts :)
Well, I hope all is going well for everyone!
Later
Jake
Thanksgiving break starts this Wednesday! Naturally, that means that already, 50% of campus has left. Thats one of the great things about having this "every-other day" schedule of classes. A lot of the time, you can swing it where you don't have any classes on Tuesdays or Thursdays. However, I was not so lucky. I have an 8:30 am class every Tuesday to Thursday. Woo hoo...
Apart from being stranded on campus here with a few upper classmen and the faculty, I'm doing great. I recently registered for my J-term and Spring classes. I'm pretty much taking all the same classes; Paideia, Music Theory, Ear Training, and my Ensembles. But I added a religion course. I'm not registered for this "Intro to the New Testament" class. I also changed my mind on my J-Term class. Instead of taking a 6 hour course that satisfied none of my graduation requirements, I'm taking a 2 hour course (average) that satisfies 3 of my graduation requirements. Its called "The Rise and Development of Black Nationalism." We'll see how it goes.
As far as now goes, all I can say is Christmas at Luther. I'm pretty sure that this upcoming event owns 99.9% of my life.
Actually, that would be untrue, the real percentage should be 100%.
We now have mandatory Sunday night rehearsals for 2 hours. Next Sunday when we get back from Break, we have a 6 hour rehersal. I. Love. Christmas. Sometimes.
Now that we're having these mass choir rehearsals though, I can hear what the music actually sounds like, so its "sort of" a motivation to keep working on my part in the music. I think that we get to practice with the full symphony on this coming Sunday. That should be pretty cool.
I also cashed my first check today, and it feels like a million dollars. You know when they say that college students are usually broke. Well...I was. And let me tell you, going 2 months without anything but your mooching abilities and dining dollars SUCKS. Either way, cashing that check (work study) was like a breath of financial freedom again. We'll see how long it lasts :)
Well, I hope all is going well for everyone!
Later
Jake
Sunday, November 9, 2008
We've got trouble, folks, with a capital 'T' and that rhymes with 'P' and that stands for.....Student Academic Support Center
Hola!
It"s been one cold week, and I still can't figure out how to work the heater in my dorm room. I figure by mid-January either my roommates and I will have it figured out or turn into little freshman ice-cubes. Speaking of January, it's registration time for all spring and J-term (1 class for 1 month=1 semester) classes. I was pretty excited, but then I looked at the list of all the possible first year classes for J-term. It was intense. I mean, they had everything from Chinese film studies to "The Big Question" philosophy courses. As of right now, I'm on one of the last days available to schedule classes. At first I was upset about it, but then I realized that it would give me more time to think about what I actually wanted to take for the entire month of January.
But, back to why a capital T rhymes with P and stands for SASC. First and foremost, SASC stands for the Student Academic Support Center ( I think....). It is a entity of Luther College that helps students with anything academic: from study techniques to getting back on their feet after failing a test. I decided to turn myself in last week and finally break down and get an appointment with one of the counselors. I am a horrible studier. I always have been and hope to change that soon. In high school, I unfortunately found it very easy to not study and still get by. I've found that that is next to impossible, especially with upper level courses, here. I also have found that I find it very easy to spread myself thin because I am so busy. In SASC, they also help with time management. Mary, my counselor, and I worked though the schedule that I have on my computer and talked about ways that I can try to study, different things to try, and times to do them. It's only been three days, but I can already see improvement in the quality of what I do. It's odd that I needed someone to tell me how and what to do....but it seems to be working out so I won't complain at all.
Today I had the opportunity to play in a masterclass with some other Luther pianists for a phenomenal concert pianist, James Tocco. Skeptical? Check You-Tube. Lordy, can that man play. I heard that after his recital, our in-resident piano tuner, Conrad, said that he'd have to touch up the piano after that performance. I've done a few masterclasses back in my former piano studio, but we each had 30 minute time slots, and I actually took quite a bit from him in the small time. That's another great thing about music at Luther. We have recitals all the time, but we also have frequent guest musicians. It's really cool to see what is possible in the professional realm of music performance.
So, I guess not all of that had to do with any sort of trouble, or pool....but I had the music man stuck in my head today. I hope the college search is going well!
Later
Jake
It"s been one cold week, and I still can't figure out how to work the heater in my dorm room. I figure by mid-January either my roommates and I will have it figured out or turn into little freshman ice-cubes. Speaking of January, it's registration time for all spring and J-term (1 class for 1 month=1 semester) classes. I was pretty excited, but then I looked at the list of all the possible first year classes for J-term. It was intense. I mean, they had everything from Chinese film studies to "The Big Question" philosophy courses. As of right now, I'm on one of the last days available to schedule classes. At first I was upset about it, but then I realized that it would give me more time to think about what I actually wanted to take for the entire month of January.
But, back to why a capital T rhymes with P and stands for SASC. First and foremost, SASC stands for the Student Academic Support Center ( I think....). It is a entity of Luther College that helps students with anything academic: from study techniques to getting back on their feet after failing a test. I decided to turn myself in last week and finally break down and get an appointment with one of the counselors. I am a horrible studier. I always have been and hope to change that soon. In high school, I unfortunately found it very easy to not study and still get by. I've found that that is next to impossible, especially with upper level courses, here. I also have found that I find it very easy to spread myself thin because I am so busy. In SASC, they also help with time management. Mary, my counselor, and I worked though the schedule that I have on my computer and talked about ways that I can try to study, different things to try, and times to do them. It's only been three days, but I can already see improvement in the quality of what I do. It's odd that I needed someone to tell me how and what to do....but it seems to be working out so I won't complain at all.
Today I had the opportunity to play in a masterclass with some other Luther pianists for a phenomenal concert pianist, James Tocco. Skeptical? Check You-Tube. Lordy, can that man play. I heard that after his recital, our in-resident piano tuner, Conrad, said that he'd have to touch up the piano after that performance. I've done a few masterclasses back in my former piano studio, but we each had 30 minute time slots, and I actually took quite a bit from him in the small time. That's another great thing about music at Luther. We have recitals all the time, but we also have frequent guest musicians. It's really cool to see what is possible in the professional realm of music performance.
So, I guess not all of that had to do with any sort of trouble, or pool....but I had the music man stuck in my head today. I hope the college search is going well!
Later
Jake
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Holy Music Competition Batman
Hello again!
I'm writing to you coming out of what could be the two most stressful days of the fall for vocal music majors and their accompanists. I like to call it "the purgatory of contests," but you'll probably hear everyone else refer to it as NATS. NATS, or the National Association of Teachers of Singing, hosts an annual "audition" in which college and high school singers have the opportunity to sing for two or three accomplished music educators for comments and possibility of cash prizes. This year, I went to sing in the Freshmen Men's division and also accompany several of my regular vocalists. All in all, I took part in 7 auditions...when the average is 1.
Now you're wondering "what does this have to do with me?"
Never EVER overbook in college...especially in your first year. As an accompanist, singer, or instrumentalist, a lot of preparation goes into any performance opportunity. Multiply that by any number and you have a lot more preparation. I think 7 "portions" of preparation was too much, and I had more stress than Monk (USA). You get the idea.
There are 3 rounds, and two of my people made it all the way to the finals, which take place the next day in a four hour recital. Luther brought more than 50% of the people participating (that's a guesstimate), and took home at least 50% of the top 3 rankings. That's pretty good considering that most all of Iowa's colleges participate in this competition.
So, this has been yet another short addition to my Luther life blog....but now that NATS is over I can go on living life, and experiencing even more to tell you about soon!
Later
Jake
I'm writing to you coming out of what could be the two most stressful days of the fall for vocal music majors and their accompanists. I like to call it "the purgatory of contests," but you'll probably hear everyone else refer to it as NATS. NATS, or the National Association of Teachers of Singing, hosts an annual "audition" in which college and high school singers have the opportunity to sing for two or three accomplished music educators for comments and possibility of cash prizes. This year, I went to sing in the Freshmen Men's division and also accompany several of my regular vocalists. All in all, I took part in 7 auditions...when the average is 1.
Now you're wondering "what does this have to do with me?"
Never EVER overbook in college...especially in your first year. As an accompanist, singer, or instrumentalist, a lot of preparation goes into any performance opportunity. Multiply that by any number and you have a lot more preparation. I think 7 "portions" of preparation was too much, and I had more stress than Monk (USA). You get the idea.
There are 3 rounds, and two of my people made it all the way to the finals, which take place the next day in a four hour recital. Luther brought more than 50% of the people participating (that's a guesstimate), and took home at least 50% of the top 3 rankings. That's pretty good considering that most all of Iowa's colleges participate in this competition.
So, this has been yet another short addition to my Luther life blog....but now that NATS is over I can go on living life, and experiencing even more to tell you about soon!
Later
Jake
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Fall Break....WHAT?
Hey everybody!
I'd like to start by reminding all readers how wonderful of a school Luther College is. Where else do you get a week-long Fall break? Now, thats not to say that I'm not enjoying my college experience, but who doesn't appreciate a chance in mid-October to go home, stay in the dorms with no classes, or in my case, take a trip. Its such a freeing experience when you're able to suggest to a couple of friends that you should go on a trip to Chicago. I don't know how many other people out there experienced this in high school and younger, but all of my big vacation-like trips involved my family. Its quite a different feeling to be much more independent and decisive about what you want to do and where you want to go.
After break, I was back at school for a total of one and a half days, because now I'm at home for my brother's confirmation. Before, I've said it's weird to be home. I'd like to rephrase that. It's weird NOT to be at Luther. I miss all of my friends, staying up late, and having a Nutty Irishman at Marty's, among other things.
As far as school goes, I experienced something new this past week (before break). First, here's some background information. When I would imagine what it would be like in college (before I decided on Luther), I would always think of classes being large lectures where the professor didn't know you, or care if you took the time to study or even come to class. Even though it isn't the “large lecture” setting at Luther, I still figured the professors could care less if I came to class or studied. After all, I'm paying tuition. Now, my grades are fine, but I missed my Paideia class 4 times because I was either sick, sick, sick, or sick. A few days later, I get an e-mail from my Paideia professor, my advisor, and the SASC office. (SASC is the Student Academic Support Center...I think). The two e-mails from my advisor and professor were full of concern, and asked if I needed to talk about anything. When you get an e-mail from SASC, it is usually because a professor forwards your name to them, so then I figured my professor was double concerned. It was kind of an awakening of sorts, because those events totally shifted my views of the compassion of professors at small (or perhaps any) colleges.
I hope the college search is going well for everyone. If you are still undecided, I found a great resource that helped me make my choice. Hope it helps you as well !
collegesearch.collegeboard.com
Later!
Jake
I'd like to start by reminding all readers how wonderful of a school Luther College is. Where else do you get a week-long Fall break? Now, thats not to say that I'm not enjoying my college experience, but who doesn't appreciate a chance in mid-October to go home, stay in the dorms with no classes, or in my case, take a trip. Its such a freeing experience when you're able to suggest to a couple of friends that you should go on a trip to Chicago. I don't know how many other people out there experienced this in high school and younger, but all of my big vacation-like trips involved my family. Its quite a different feeling to be much more independent and decisive about what you want to do and where you want to go.
After break, I was back at school for a total of one and a half days, because now I'm at home for my brother's confirmation. Before, I've said it's weird to be home. I'd like to rephrase that. It's weird NOT to be at Luther. I miss all of my friends, staying up late, and having a Nutty Irishman at Marty's, among other things.
As far as school goes, I experienced something new this past week (before break). First, here's some background information. When I would imagine what it would be like in college (before I decided on Luther), I would always think of classes being large lectures where the professor didn't know you, or care if you took the time to study or even come to class. Even though it isn't the “large lecture” setting at Luther, I still figured the professors could care less if I came to class or studied. After all, I'm paying tuition. Now, my grades are fine, but I missed my Paideia class 4 times because I was either sick, sick, sick, or sick. A few days later, I get an e-mail from my Paideia professor, my advisor, and the SASC office. (SASC is the Student Academic Support Center...I think). The two e-mails from my advisor and professor were full of concern, and asked if I needed to talk about anything. When you get an e-mail from SASC, it is usually because a professor forwards your name to them, so then I figured my professor was double concerned. It was kind of an awakening of sorts, because those events totally shifted my views of the compassion of professors at small (or perhaps any) colleges.
I hope the college search is going well for everyone. If you are still undecided, I found a great resource that helped me make my choice. Hope it helps you as well !
collegesearch.collegeboard.com
Later!
Jake
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Norsemen...at Luther....really?
Hello all,
This past week the Norsemen began working on our Christmas at Luther music. I never thought I'd say that it's too early for Christmas music, but I'm going to. It's too early for Christmas music. I'm a firm believer in waiting to bring out the Christmas cheer until after Thanksgiving. Wait for the big sales, that's my motto. Granted, my motto in no way seems to reflect Luther College's view on when Christmas starts: October first. That aside, the music itself is pretty cool. We're singing some pretty traditional pieces, but they are really cool arrangements. I also think most of the guys in choir with me share my sentiment on when the Christmas music needs to be pulled out.
Now, with the way Christmas at Luther works, I understand the necessity of preparing. Our first concert is Dec. 4th, and that's a little over a month from now. All of the choirs (7 of them), bands, and orchestras take part in this gargantuan event. This year, it's going to be nationally televised, so you can imagine the excitement...or stress levels that are already floating around with the professors and students.
I think there is a visit day that's in direct relation to Christmas at Luther. If any of you are interested in coming, its a PERFECT opportunity to get some free tickets for you and your family. When you come, you not only get to see the concert, but you also get to audition for any music scholarships that you are thinking about and get to see Luther at its busiest.
Later!
Jake
This past week the Norsemen began working on our Christmas at Luther music. I never thought I'd say that it's too early for Christmas music, but I'm going to. It's too early for Christmas music. I'm a firm believer in waiting to bring out the Christmas cheer until after Thanksgiving. Wait for the big sales, that's my motto. Granted, my motto in no way seems to reflect Luther College's view on when Christmas starts: October first. That aside, the music itself is pretty cool. We're singing some pretty traditional pieces, but they are really cool arrangements. I also think most of the guys in choir with me share my sentiment on when the Christmas music needs to be pulled out.
Now, with the way Christmas at Luther works, I understand the necessity of preparing. Our first concert is Dec. 4th, and that's a little over a month from now. All of the choirs (7 of them), bands, and orchestras take part in this gargantuan event. This year, it's going to be nationally televised, so you can imagine the excitement...or stress levels that are already floating around with the professors and students.
I think there is a visit day that's in direct relation to Christmas at Luther. If any of you are interested in coming, its a PERFECT opportunity to get some free tickets for you and your family. When you come, you not only get to see the concert, but you also get to audition for any music scholarships that you are thinking about and get to see Luther at its busiest.
Later!
Jake
Monday, September 29, 2008
Home again, Home again...or however it goes
Hello all,
I can't believe it has already been almost a month since I've moved in. As a matter of fact, it has been a month exactly! As kind of a weird anniversary of that occasion, I went home this weekend. It was honestly a weird feeling. I mean, I missed my family a lot, but it was almost like my body had adapted to Luther being my "home." I can't exactly describe what I was feeling, except that it was similar to a "oh yes...." feeling. It was weird to see my puppies (5 and 10 year old dogs) again, weird to see the cows, and pretty much the same for all the other parts of the farm. Now, I would like to reiterate again, it wasn't a bad weird, it was a different feeling than what I expected. So, I spent some time with the family, went out to Hu Hot (an amazing mongolian grill chain in Iowa), and sang at a wedding. It made for a pretty random weekend, but towards the end I was slightly tempted not to come back to Luther (only about one percent....and that was only because my mom made pancakes before I left.)
I do think that while it was good to see my family, I don't think I could handle more than the once or twice a month seeing them, because then it would be really hard for me to come back to school. I've already kind of planned out my next visits home, so that shouldn't be a problem.
OTHER than that, the past week has been fairly uneventful, I got horribly sick and really didn't do much for the entire week. I'm still getting over it, but I think I may have gotten my two roommates sick...so sorry guys!
Well, I have to go practice some before my seminar!
Later,
Jake
I can't believe it has already been almost a month since I've moved in. As a matter of fact, it has been a month exactly! As kind of a weird anniversary of that occasion, I went home this weekend. It was honestly a weird feeling. I mean, I missed my family a lot, but it was almost like my body had adapted to Luther being my "home." I can't exactly describe what I was feeling, except that it was similar to a "oh yes...." feeling. It was weird to see my puppies (5 and 10 year old dogs) again, weird to see the cows, and pretty much the same for all the other parts of the farm. Now, I would like to reiterate again, it wasn't a bad weird, it was a different feeling than what I expected. So, I spent some time with the family, went out to Hu Hot (an amazing mongolian grill chain in Iowa), and sang at a wedding. It made for a pretty random weekend, but towards the end I was slightly tempted not to come back to Luther (only about one percent....and that was only because my mom made pancakes before I left.)
I do think that while it was good to see my family, I don't think I could handle more than the once or twice a month seeing them, because then it would be really hard for me to come back to school. I've already kind of planned out my next visits home, so that shouldn't be a problem.
OTHER than that, the past week has been fairly uneventful, I got horribly sick and really didn't do much for the entire week. I'm still getting over it, but I think I may have gotten my two roommates sick...so sorry guys!
Well, I have to go practice some before my seminar!
Later,
Jake
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Family Weekend
Hello....again! It's been a trying week, I went from having minimal amounts of homework to having two papers to write, 300 pages to read, and five pages of my theory homework to do. Talk about passive aggressive assignment...ing! But that's what I originally expected from college, so I think I'll adjust just fine to the work load, just not this weekend.
I can mostly attribute my lack of motivation due to the fact that this weekend was “Family Weekend” here at Luther. This basically means that 99% of the students here had their parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles...and second cousins. Anyway, I was part of that 99%. A lot of people's families come up on Friday night for some events the college has then, but most people come up Saturday for the football game and choir and band concert, like my mom and brother. I hadn't seen my brother since I moved in a month ago, and he grew about another inch (he's now a 6'4'' [ish] 15 year old). It was fun to show them around campus and share everything I had taken in over the last month in about 2 hours.
Later in the day, I had my first Norsemen concert, along with Aurora, Cathedral, Cantorei, and Collegiate choirs, and the Varsity and Wind and Percussion bands. Looking at that list, it looks like it would make a long concert, but it was only about an hour and 15 min. Shortly after the concert, I had to make the short jog from the CFL (Center for Faith and Life), to the cafeteria in the Dahl Centennial Union for the Jazz band concert. It was a “soda shoppe” event hosted by the SAC (Student Activities Committee), which basically means people ate ice cream and listened to... slash danced to... the music of the Jazz Band and Jazz Orchestra (Jazz II and I respectively). As boring as my day sounded, I really enjoyed spending time with a portion of my family again. I was a classic case of not missing them until I was gone. Well, that's all I have for this week!
Later!
Jake
I can mostly attribute my lack of motivation due to the fact that this weekend was “Family Weekend” here at Luther. This basically means that 99% of the students here had their parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles...and second cousins. Anyway, I was part of that 99%. A lot of people's families come up on Friday night for some events the college has then, but most people come up Saturday for the football game and choir and band concert, like my mom and brother. I hadn't seen my brother since I moved in a month ago, and he grew about another inch (he's now a 6'4'' [ish] 15 year old). It was fun to show them around campus and share everything I had taken in over the last month in about 2 hours.
Later in the day, I had my first Norsemen concert, along with Aurora, Cathedral, Cantorei, and Collegiate choirs, and the Varsity and Wind and Percussion bands. Looking at that list, it looks like it would make a long concert, but it was only about an hour and 15 min. Shortly after the concert, I had to make the short jog from the CFL (Center for Faith and Life), to the cafeteria in the Dahl Centennial Union for the Jazz band concert. It was a “soda shoppe” event hosted by the SAC (Student Activities Committee), which basically means people ate ice cream and listened to... slash danced to... the music of the Jazz Band and Jazz Orchestra (Jazz II and I respectively). As boring as my day sounded, I really enjoyed spending time with a portion of my family again. I was a classic case of not missing them until I was gone. Well, that's all I have for this week!
Later!
Jake
Monday, September 15, 2008
One week down...
Now with the first "official" week of classes under my belt, I think I'm finally settling into a groove. it didn't take me long to realize that 18 credit hours makes for, well, four too many credit hours. For those of you who don't know, Luther bases it's course credit on "credit hours." From what I understand, the title really doesn't change the fact that they just add up to the amount you need to graduate. Speaking of which, I'm not sure off the top of my head how many you do need, so I'll get back to you guys on that. Each class on average is about 4, and some are 0, and some are more...I think. But anyways, 18 credit hours is a lot, most people max out at 16, and with all the things I'm doing, I doubt I could even handle that.
So, now I'm down to my theory and ear training classes, my sophomore psychology class, and of course, Paideia (which isn't as bad as you hear about ;). I also recently made the Jazz Band (in essence, Jazz Two) on piano. We rehearse every Tuesday and Thursday for an hour and a half. I'm also in Norsemen, the freshman men's chorus. Its a pretty sweet experience, I've never been in a strictly TTBB (Tenor 1 Tenor 2 Bass 1 Bass 2) choir, and I've got to admit, it's awesome! On top of those, I'm also taking private Voice and Piano lessons. Because of that, I accompany for 8 other music major's lessons, and accompany my voice studio's seminar once every week. Oh, and I also tutor down at the elementary schools every Tuesday and Thursday.
Honestly, I haven't had much homework yet. Apart from the frequent worksheets from my music classes, I know I haven't hit the "motherload" of college work yet. Luckily, I'm pretty interested in all of the classes I'm taking. More than likely, my next post will find me SWAMPED in homework. Wait for it.
Apart from the busy schedule, I still am having a phenomenal (word of the day) time here on campus. I may or may not be eating too much at the cafeteria. I may or may not be studying as much as I should. But I certainly am getting a LOT out of my experience thus far.
Later!
Jake
So, now I'm down to my theory and ear training classes, my sophomore psychology class, and of course, Paideia (which isn't as bad as you hear about ;). I also recently made the Jazz Band (in essence, Jazz Two) on piano. We rehearse every Tuesday and Thursday for an hour and a half. I'm also in Norsemen, the freshman men's chorus. Its a pretty sweet experience, I've never been in a strictly TTBB (Tenor 1 Tenor 2 Bass 1 Bass 2) choir, and I've got to admit, it's awesome! On top of those, I'm also taking private Voice and Piano lessons. Because of that, I accompany for 8 other music major's lessons, and accompany my voice studio's seminar once every week. Oh, and I also tutor down at the elementary schools every Tuesday and Thursday.
Honestly, I haven't had much homework yet. Apart from the frequent worksheets from my music classes, I know I haven't hit the "motherload" of college work yet. Luckily, I'm pretty interested in all of the classes I'm taking. More than likely, my next post will find me SWAMPED in homework. Wait for it.
Apart from the busy schedule, I still am having a phenomenal (word of the day) time here on campus. I may or may not be eating too much at the cafeteria. I may or may not be studying as much as I should. But I certainly am getting a LOT out of my experience thus far.
Later!
Jake
Thursday, September 4, 2008
First Things First
Hey! I'm Jake, and if you didn't read my info, I'm a music and psychology major at Luther, and enjoy candlelight, coffee, and poetry readings. I'm originally from Cedar Falls, Iowa, which is a whopping hour and a half away. However, I've never gone to school in Cedar Falls, but instead up the road to a smaller town of Waverly. But, that's just some boring education background stuff.
I came to Luther for several reasons, the top two being their impressive music program and the financial aid I received. All in all, I applied to 15 different schools: private, out of state, state schools, and big universities. Regardless of where I got accepted, I wasn't ever treated the same as I was when I visited and applied to Luther College. And wherever you visit and go, you'll find that every campus has a different attitude - Luther's just happens to be nice. But I digress, I came to Luther because I liked it, and when you visit, you'll probably find some things you like too.
Anyway, enough about me, I want to tell all of you what an AMAZING experience I had moving in. So, I spent most of the last few weeks of summer actually preparing to move in. I was even able to move in one day early on Friday the 29th. When we got into Decorah, I just got this overwhelming feeling, and I actually missed my parents...who were still in the car with me. One good thing about living in Olson is the fact that there is a parking lot right behind the building. You don't get that anywhere else as a freshman! We pulled up to the door, and brought my 14 boxes, mattress pad, futon, rug, fridge, and everything else in in about 5 minutes. I figured if college doesn't work out for me, I definitely have a career in moving. However, it took us about 4 hours to arrange the three lofts into the best arrangement on my floor. So, when I finally got everything moved in, arranged, and unpacked, I sent my parents home. It was a weird feeling, but I felt that I had just jumped the first and biggest hurdle of college: being ok with not being at home. The next few days were spent going to meetings, meeting people, and just spending time in my AIR CONDITIONED dorm room being cool...literally.
Now I have the first few classes under my belt, and feel ready to conquer the world. Which would be interesting to see, I may add...but that's for another day.
Hope this finds you well.
Later!
Jake
I came to Luther for several reasons, the top two being their impressive music program and the financial aid I received. All in all, I applied to 15 different schools: private, out of state, state schools, and big universities. Regardless of where I got accepted, I wasn't ever treated the same as I was when I visited and applied to Luther College. And wherever you visit and go, you'll find that every campus has a different attitude - Luther's just happens to be nice. But I digress, I came to Luther because I liked it, and when you visit, you'll probably find some things you like too.
Anyway, enough about me, I want to tell all of you what an AMAZING experience I had moving in. So, I spent most of the last few weeks of summer actually preparing to move in. I was even able to move in one day early on Friday the 29th. When we got into Decorah, I just got this overwhelming feeling, and I actually missed my parents...who were still in the car with me. One good thing about living in Olson is the fact that there is a parking lot right behind the building. You don't get that anywhere else as a freshman! We pulled up to the door, and brought my 14 boxes, mattress pad, futon, rug, fridge, and everything else in in about 5 minutes. I figured if college doesn't work out for me, I definitely have a career in moving. However, it took us about 4 hours to arrange the three lofts into the best arrangement on my floor. So, when I finally got everything moved in, arranged, and unpacked, I sent my parents home. It was a weird feeling, but I felt that I had just jumped the first and biggest hurdle of college: being ok with not being at home. The next few days were spent going to meetings, meeting people, and just spending time in my AIR CONDITIONED dorm room being cool...literally.
Now I have the first few classes under my belt, and feel ready to conquer the world. Which would be interesting to see, I may add...but that's for another day.
Hope this finds you well.
Later!
Jake
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