tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19477166350811067352024-03-08T06:19:19.100-08:00Bad Hall DirectorI'm a hall director. I'm a full-time babysitter, referee, and counselor for hundreds of students. Did I mention that I live with them all?BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-74117476613416587062013-02-05T17:00:00.000-08:002013-02-05T17:00:08.615-08:00Pinterest: It’s in My Job Description (Apparently)<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Who
knew you could spend 7 hours on Pinterest and collect a paycheck? That’s not
why I took this job years ago; however, judging from how I have spent the past
few weeks, you'd think it was. Thanks to a relevantly slow period (is there such
a thing in ResLife) and my monster of a boss, Irene, most of my duties have
vanished. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Before
Irene arrived, I was plenty busy; my supervisor delegated a portion of his
workload to me. I didn’t mind it—I earned great experience and it helped pass
the day faster. Not anymore! Irene has taken offense to my frank nature and
efficient way of doing my job, so she feels I have “not earned the right” to
work beyond my job description. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">She
actually had the nerve to say, at a staff meeting, that I had not grown enough
as a hall director and needed to understand “what we do in this office”. She
threatened me with “special projects” to help me be a better team player (aka
bullshit that bosses say). </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">This
resulted in an over the top tantrum behind my closed office door, complete with
thrown pens, crumbled post-it notes, and suggestions for what Irene could do
with a goat. Let’s just say I was none too pleased with the sudden decrease in
responsibilities. Unfortunately, it has also meant I have less to do since I
know what needs to happen over the next few months and have everything set until
next August with paperwork. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">So,
while Irene attempts to assert her perceived power over the hall directors and
give extra work to her new favorites, I’ll continue to surf HigherEdJobs.com
and Pinterest to find a better job and another 50 uses for modge podge and
cereal boxes. </span></span></div>
BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-40158925191063988122013-01-24T20:33:00.001-08:002013-01-25T20:13:20.697-08:00Hall Directors Are Human Too<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thi<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">s
week, I am prostaff on-duty. Not my favorite part of the job, but hell, we all
have to do it right? Last semester, I was fairly lucky. I only had one drunken
student to confront and one false fire alarm. However, tonight, I made up for all the good duty karma I collected. Tonight, I spent two hours with a domestic abuse victim who
ended up pressing charges on her boyfriend. </span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">When I
arrived on the scene, Kayla, the young lady pressing charges, was trying hard to be calm even though her
tear-stained face told me she was one question away from breaking down. While
sitting on her roommates’ bed and clutching a tattered teddy bear, Kayla told
me about her boyfriend, Harry, and the fight they had just finished. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">The
Cliffnotes version of the event: Harry had a history of emotionally and mentally
abusing Kayla since they started dating in high school. He continuously accused
Kayla of being stupid, ugly, and too flirty with his friends. Whenever he was
in a particularly foul mood, he demeaned her by saying that Kayla was lucky to
have him since no one else would love her like he did. Despite her friends’
pleas to leave him, Kayla was unable to say goodbye, until tonight.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">When
Kayla told Harry, over Skype, that they were through, Harry rushed over to her
room and demanded they talk about it. She refused to let him in out of fear
that Harry would convince her to stay with him; however, Harry sounded
devastated, and he promised he would change. Kayla slowly opened the door and
peered at what she expected would be a remorseful Harry. Instead, a furious,
red-faced Harry pushed his way into the room and roughly grabbed Kayla by the
arms, shaking her violently. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">By the
grace of some almighty dude in the sky, Kayla’s roommate, Sasha, returned with
her friend Brian—he immediately pulled Harry off of Kayla. Harry fled the room,
but was promptly caught by University Police. Kayla agreed to file charges and she is considering an order of protection. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">When I
was no older than Kayla, I was in a long-term and abusive relationship. I began
dating Ethan in the 10<sup>th</sup> grade. He never hit me. Although there were
times when I wished he would just so I could show people the bruises as proof that I needed help. It would have been easier than
trying to describe how nasty he got when he thought I was being too flirty with
one of my guy friends or explain why he called me a “cunt” for accidentally closing his
car door too hard.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Or when
he nagged me for weeks to sleep with him and his two friends only to call me a slut when I agreed just to shut him up. Just
like Harry, Ethan told me how no one would ever love me like he did and when I
tried breaking up with him, he attempted to drive my car into a telephone
pole. As he aimed, he said dramatically, “if I can’t have you, no one can”. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">In my mind, it was my fault; Ethan always blamed me for his outbursts.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Ethan
may not have left physical scars, but like the lasting marks left by Harry’s
harsh words, I carry these emotional bruises with me every day. Every time I confront
an accused abuser, I have to ignore the anger boiling up in me as I envision
Ethan standing in front of me. Every time I comfort a domestic abuse victim, I
have to remember that it is not me sitting across the desk. I have to remember
what the survivor needs—they need support, a sympathetic ear, and the resources
to get out of the relationship. Sadly, all things I never had. As awful as my
past is, it has made me a stronger and better hall director. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">As professional staff, we are all trained (hopefully anyway) to handle myriad of
situations, including rape, violence, and domestic abuse. No matter how
prepared we think we are for these incidents, it can sometimes hit us unexpectedly
hard, especially if we have personal experiences that mirror what we are
presently facing. There are times when I wish hall directors received mandatory
counseling just like firefighters or police officers after they are involved in
a serious matter. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Instead,
we are expected to be there for everyone else without falling victim to the
intense emotions that can resurface in the heat of the incident. Hall directors
are real people with real pasts and real mental anguish. As stated in my post awhile
ago, please remember that hall directors need to take care of themselves or
else we will be rubbish in incidents that call for us to care for others.We must identify our triggers, embrace our difficult past, and learn to live with them without it taking over our lives.</span></span></div>
BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-695650361616635902013-01-15T17:51:00.000-08:002013-01-24T20:36:43.468-08:00...In With the New<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11.0pt;">Over
the past few weeks, my old boss has been shifted to another complex and a new
Area Coordinator has been hired in his place. At first, I was excited about a
change in leadership, especially since I think a bag of cat treats can
supervise better than my boss of 4 years. However, my elation quickly
disappeared and was replaced with dread and anger.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11.0pt;">The new
boss, a rather nasty, older woman with apparent confidence issues, has already
told each of the hall directors under her that she is looking to “shake things
up”. This past Friday, Irene demanded we each write a two-page summary
justifying why we deserve to stay in our current assignment and why we are
suited for the RHD position. I have been in Residence Life for longer than she
has and this is the welcome we get.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11.0pt;">Plus,
it is painfully obvious that the only other female hall director in my complex
(Emily) and I have large Target-inspired bull’s-eyes on our backs. Despite our
open arms approach when welcoming her to our campus, Irene scrutinized every
document, every incident report, and every RA request Emily and I have
completed for the last semester. But, the two guys on the staff are allowed to
do whatever they want without so much as a sideways glance from Irene; they
have been told to “do whatever is necessary to run a smooth staff and hall”. </span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11.0pt;">I can
already sense a battle brewing. Why can’t women get along in the workplace? Why
is that some women feel threatened by other females who have no ill-intention
and simply want to learn from their experience? Irene could have learned a lot
from us, and we could have learned a lot from Irene. It’s about to get real
ugly up in here.</span></span></div>
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<![endif]-->BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-67053143674988388042012-10-27T18:56:00.001-07:002012-10-27T18:56:45.016-07:00Its Okay to Help YourselfFirst of all, I apologize to my readers for being away for a few months. Things in life got a little heavy for my liking, and writing took a back seat. Things are finally settling, and it seemed like a good time for me to return for a bit.<br />
<br />
The job market has been tough. I know you're thinking, "no shit Sherlock". Sorry, I had to state the obvious. After spending too many hours to properly count on applying for jobs, I have nothing to show for it. I interviewed for a few Area Director positions at ACPA. However, nothing happened.<br />
<br />
I have been in the same hall director position for five to seven years. I have stretched myself beyond my professional limits. I have taken on new responsibilities beyond my job description to gain unique experience. Yet, nothing I have done has led to the next step in the residence life field.<br />
<br />
As summer wound down, I started the slow decent into depression as I realized I was once again beginning a new academic year as hall director of Xavier Hall (pseudonym) instead of settling into a new, higher position. Like many of my colleagues out there in higher education land, I felt frustrated, cheated, and angry. Had I not done everything "they" suggested to further my ResLife career? Had I not sat on lots of committees, volunteered my time with other departments, and apprenticed with the Operations office for a semester? How could all these years of self sacrifice and constant professional development fail me?<br />
<br />
Needless to say, after a solid month of intense misery and self-loathing, it was suggested that I see a therapist to deal with these feelings. I found out just how much anxiety can accumulate by living for years in a toxic fish bowl. Although I am still disillusioned with my career and wish I could live/work somewhere else, I am learning to better handle the stress of my disappointment.<br />
<br />
For all you readers who are struggling to find purpose in your career, take solace in that you are not alone. If there are bigger issues and you still have anxiety about your job, your living space, or your future, please don't be afraid to reach out. We all are trained to take care of others, yet a lot of the time, we forget to help ourselves.BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-60082437745955962112012-07-01T19:55:00.000-07:002012-07-02T20:10:05.209-07:00Fifty Shades of Shit<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before
I launch into my usual rant, I need to be very clear, I have NEVER read <i>Fifty Shades of Grey</i>, nor will I ever.
However, I know enough to make my stomach turn whenever the book is mentioned.
A colleague of mine told me the basis of the plot and it by no means encouraged
me to experience the series.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a
world where 80% of women under 30 have been sexually assaulted and every 2
minutes someone is raped in our country, why on Earth is a book that promotes
sexual abuse such a big hit? Of course, I have been told this series is about a
woman who willingly gets involved with a man who is into S&M and grows to
love the spankings and abuse. However, even after he beats the shit out of her
in the “Red Room of Pain” and it appears that she leaves him, she returns only after
a short period of time. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This
series is more dangerous than <i>Twilight</i>.
It sends a chilling message that women need to be dominated, abused, and
manipulated. I don’t buy the bull shit excuse that women are tired of being in
control of their work and personal lives, and this book allows them to slip
into a fantasy world devoted to pain and sexual dominance. When did our society
fall into this pathetic realm of abuse and sadism? When did women become
powerless minions of abusive men? When did women become the weaker sex—for real
this time?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As a
survivor of a sexual assault and several abusive relationships, I weep for the
young women who read this abhorrent series and believe they must surrender
their rights, their personalities, and their independence to keep a man. I weep
for survivors of rape and abuse, because this series glorifies sexual assault
as “romantic” and evidence of love. It is obvious the author has never been
raped, never been hit, and never been in fear of her life from an abusive
lover. Or if she has, she is too fucked up for words. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As a
Residential Life professional, I am overwhelmed with anger, grief, and despair
over how this book has been received. This past year, I counseled three
rape victims—there is no way I would describe their experiences as romantic.
Their rapists were not misunderstood men (like Grey) who were simply confused
about how to express love. Abuse is not sexy. Abuse is not erotic. Abuse is a
horrific blight on our culture, and it sickens me to my core that a WOMAN is
profiting off the glorification of it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I will
be pushing for this book to be featured in our RA training—not for its literary
merit, but for the appalling message it sends both men and women. Maybe we can
bring a silver lining to the Fifty Shades of Grey clouds hanging over our
society. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-25797484171213313162012-06-18T20:03:00.000-07:002012-06-18T20:20:29.004-07:00Game Over. Or is it?<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">While
playing Donkey Kong for the Wii with a few of my Conference Hosts tonight, they
asked me why the game would even count down your lives since it saves
periodically throughout game play. Even if you run out of all your red balloons,
you can simply start from your last completed level and resume the game.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">It was
at this point, that I realized how I old I am compared to these young ones. When
I first started playing video games, Mario Brothers (the original) was the most
popular game and the only console available was the Nintendo. There were no
memory cards or save options. You had a certain number of guys with whom to
play, and if you ran out, you were forced to restart the entire game from the
very beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Plus,
this meant that how long you could play in one sitting determined how far you
could advance in the game. For example, I have many clear memories of being
pulled away from Mario by my mom, because dinner was ready. I had to pause the
game, turn off the television, and tip toe away from the console (for those who
don’t remember, if the console was bumped, it would sometimes reset). After
dinner, I waited with baited breath as the TV was turned on, hoping it was
still in pause mode.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Eventually,
the game industry understood not everyone could play all eight worlds at one
time and started handing out save codes. Ask anyone 28 or older about their strips
of scrap paper with long strings of letters and numbers used to return to the game
after the console was shut down. Thankfully, these ridiculously complicated codes
were replaced with memory cards and then direct saves to the hard drive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now,
players can restart their games at different levels or checkpoints within levels.
They can die repeatedly without fear of redoing the whole stage with a limited
number of lives. Thank goodness, because no one wants to complete Skryim in one
sitting. Either way, those darn conference hosts made me feel old tonight.
Whatever—back to Frogger on my Coleco. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-76992937656522862612012-06-12T18:35:00.000-07:002012-06-18T20:20:49.619-07:00Little Diddy & His ScholarshipJustin Combs, son of P. Diddy/Puff Daddy/Sean Combs, has
received a UCLA football scholarship offer. Even though his dad is reportedly
worth $500 million (according to the Huffington Post article available <a href="http://tinyurl.com/733xl93" target="_blank">here</a>),
Justin plans on accepting the money. When the controversy first began, Justin
responded via Twitter, “Regardless
what circumstances are, I put that work in!!!! PERIOD."<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I
don’t disagree that Justin Combs is a smart man. The same article said he is
graduating from Iona Prep in New Rochelle with a 3.75 GPA. I don’t disagree
that Justin Combs is a great athlete since he earned a scholarship to UCLA. What
I find issue with is that P. Diddy has WAY more money than most parents of
first semester students and can afford to send his son to UCLA, Harvard, and
Yale (all at the same time) without taking out a Parent PLUS loan. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As
much as it pains me to agree with Bill O’Reilly, it is not fair for money
earmarked for athletic scholarships to go to the son of an extremely wealthy
family. Yes, I understand that the money is collected from ticket sales and
corporate donations. Yes, I understand the scholarships are not based on
need, rather based on athletic abilities. However, this does not mean that
Justin has to accept the scholarship. How many students will be forced to
decline an offer to UCLA, because there is no more funding left? How many
students will delay or abandon their dream of attending UCLA, because the son
of a music mogul accepted a scholarship he does not need? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And
for those who are upset that I am harping on a hardworking student for earning
a great opportunity, remember this. Our nation’s education system is already skewed
towards those who can afford to be prepared for college and against those who
barely make it to graduation. Despite our core belief that everyone is entitled
to a quality education, that is not always true. For example, what if I am a
poor kid growing up in a moderately-sized city and my parents cannot afford to
move into a better school district? Rather than attending a suburban school
with other students who have the resources to start college preparation early,
I attend the city school that is plagued with overcrowded classrooms and
overworked guidance counselors. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Plus,
if my parents have never attended college, they may not know how to apply to
college, how to file for financial aid, or how to find scholarships. I may not
have access to Advanced Placement tests, specialty classes beyond the basic
curriculum, or internships. So, even if I am motivated to attend college, my school’s
reputation and my grades may not be enough to get into a school like UCLA (or any college). The cycle continues until I am competing for the same
job with college graduates, like Justin Combs, who went to UCLA or an Ivy
League college. Guess which one is more likely to get hired?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I
would have a tremendous amount of respect for P. Diddy and Justin Combs if he
refused the money. Not accepting the scholarship will not tarnish his future
football career or his academic successes. In fact, it would make him appear to
be more grateful for the opportunities he has thanks to his father’s talents.
And, he could say that he made it possible for a few more students to attend
UCLA. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Justin,
don’t let pride get in the way of doing the right thing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
PS: The article also
mentions Trey Griffey, son of baseball’s Ken Griffey, Jr., is receiving a free
ride to Arizona. I am just as annoyed by this story as I am about Justin Combs. <o:p></o:p></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-63356099611688263882012-06-08T17:35:00.001-07:002012-06-18T20:21:06.866-07:00Liberal Arts v. Trade Schools<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">No job
offers yet. I guess there’s still time. In the meantime, I question if I made a
mistake with my liberal arts degree. Would I have been better off getting a specialized or vocational degree? Would I look good in plumber overalls? Hell
yea! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Liberal
Arts degrees provide students with an overall education. It prepares them not
just for their career, but for the world. No one likes being forced to take
Intermediate Statistics or Child Psychology if they are a biology major;
however, by knowing more than their core subject, they are better equipped to
be a well-rounded citizen.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Trade
schools or universities with no general education component prepare students
for a specific career track. Examples
are art schools, air conditioner repair certificates, and vocational programs
at community colleges. Rather than expend energy on classes that have nothing to
do with their future, students enroll in courses with a stronger focus on their
major.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When families
and students are questioning the high cost of college, it is no wonder they may
gravitate to a program they think will guarantee them a job upon graduation. As
an advisor on the side (my school lets us dabble in a variety of other
departments for additional experience), several parents have asked me “which
program will guarantee my son a job?” My answer is a variation of, “I have no
idea”. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I chose
to be a teacher, a purveyor of knowledge, a holder of an education diploma.
Why? In part, because I was told there would be a HUGE number of teachers
retiring by the time I was ready to enter the work force and the anticipated need
was overwhelming. Obviously, thanks to budget cuts, the strains on our economy,
and veteran teachers who cannot afford to retire, the demand for teachers has
dried up. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Frustratingly
for some, our nation’s higher education system is based on a liberal arts
curriculum. However, as some schools are finding out, students would rather
earn a degree they will use and will garner them employment, and they are flocking
to those programs instead of the traditional ones. I am a supporter of liberal
arts, but, I also understand students need to work. They need to cover rent,
save for the future, and pay back student loans.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So,
what is the answer? Do we forgo the liberal arts program in exchange for a more
specific curriculum designed only to provide a vocational education? Will this
give our students a fighting chance at landing a job after crossing the
graduation stage? Or will it lead us to be a nation filled with trained people,
but an uneducated citizenry? </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-25437081871170320512012-06-06T18:28:00.002-07:002012-06-18T20:21:24.111-07:00RA Training: What's on your "Hell No" List?<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" id="yui_3_2_0_1_1339031404154148" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After several meetings, our committee is only slightly closer to a concise training plan. The last time we met, we engaged in the usual ResLife brainstorming sessions where one person stands at the front of the room jotting down every inane idea we feel comfortable shouting out. As with every other meeting before, the suggestions start serious and quickly devolve into outlandish and immature.</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What did we accomplish? Not much. A few stellar ideas were recorded, while others were immediately shot down. Most of my recommendations were put on the “no way in hell” list while a couple made it to the “we'll consider this” column. And, because I love my loyal audience, I am pleased to give you a peak at the suggestions that did not make it:</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Require RAs to hunt for squirrel and pigeon for lunch.</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>RA training will include hand-to-hand combat and outdoor survival skills [knot-tying is a maybe].</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Along with markers, glue-stix, and firewatch vests, RAs will be issued weapons (bow & arrows, throwing knives, etc.) for emergency response training.</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Yellow jackets and bees used in place of tracker jackers for tournament play.</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Model Behind Closed Doors to look like the arena, complete with a maniacal gamemaster (ahem: me) controlling the action. </span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Promise the best room and hall assignment to the last RA alive as a form of motivation.</span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Provide meals only if the Hall Directors and Area Directors feel entertained enough to sponsor food deliveries of Pizza Hut, Jimmy Johns, and China Wok take-out. </span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.5in; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">8.</span><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">At
the end of each training day, b</span></span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">last the sound of a
cannon and project the pictures of all RAs who fell asleep during
presentations.</span></span></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv1668499644MsoNoSpacing" style="color: #454545; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For a department concerned about motivating their staff, I can think of nothing that would encourage the RAs faster than a fight to the death Battle Royale-style in the football stadium, while being chased by Ferrell cats and raccoons (Sadly, we don't have any muttations). Last one to the dining hall wins!</span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-25975302932182747682012-05-23T17:55:00.001-07:002012-05-23T17:55:26.201-07:00Training Theme Announced: Hunger Games<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Sorry
readers for the extended absence. I wish I could say I was busy tutoring under-privileged
youth in the inner city or that I volunteered to rebuild houses in the South
with Habitat for Humanity. Nope. I was just hung over from indulging in too
many laps around my empty hall while screaming, “I’m FREE!!” Now it is back to
the grind of preparing for RA training, which commences in less than three
months.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Today,
I received the training theme. Since we usually follow the pop culture trends
of the year, I was not surprised to see Hunger Games. Hopefully, Lionsgate will
not hunt down the department and sue the pants off of it for copyright infringement.
Oh who am I kidding, I really want that to happen—a lawsuit would be
entertaining. However, Warner Brothers never showed up when we used Harry
Potter three years ago, so my hopes are not high. Anyway, I digress. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Luckily,
I am on the training committee so I can geek out with my Hunger Games knowledge
which has grown exponentially since I discovered how hot Gale and Peeta are.
For the summer, I will be updating you all on how we are incorporating our
favorite book/movie about vicious children murdering their peers into our training schedule. I have plenty
of ideas and cannot wait to share them. I may even reveal a few door decs for
your viewing pleasure. Check back often, and may the odds be ever in your
favor!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-83624284289388951092012-05-02T20:49:00.001-07:002012-06-18T20:21:58.153-07:00Participation Badge Generation<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">As my residents move out this week, the more I hear from their parents. Today, I had
to endure a one-sided conversation from a father whose daughter was leaving
after having a less than stellar semester. He told me that his daughter, Laura,
is so confident in her abilities that she is actually surprised she is not
the top of her class or best friends with everyone on her floor. According to her
father, Laura has never failed at anything.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After
listening to Laura’s father rant about her terrible roommate and horrible
professors, I walked away thinking about today’s generation. I realized that
Laura is not accustomed to hearing “no” or failing at anything, because she
is of the Participation Badge Generation. This is a group of students who, in
Little League, received a trophy just for playing. They were told by their parents they could be anything they wanted to be when they grew
up. This generation was always protected by mothers who overly praised their
mediocre children and fathers who argued with anyone who disagreed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For
anyone following my blog, you will know that I have been called negative and
jaded by my peers. However, being from the generation prior to the students
residing in our halls, I believe I have a realistic view of the world. I am
under no illusion that at 5’2” I will be a basketball star or, with my poor
eyesight, I will be a fighter pilot. I do not care how many times I am told that
my future possibilities are endless, I know I will never be the next Michael Jordan.
And I am okay with that. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There
is nothing wrong with a healthy dose of reality, especially for the current
generation who has rarely faced disappointment. What will they do when they do
not land a high-paying job right after graduation? What will they do when their
boss critiques them on their average performance? Will they call mommy and daddy,
asking them to correct their evaluation since it must be wrong? At some point,
our students need to feel the sting of failure and stare down the reality. No matter how confident you are that you will be the next
Zuckerberg, if it is not meant to be, it will not happen. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s
called life.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-75254682947108642632012-04-22T18:33:00.000-07:002012-04-22T18:33:38.293-07:00RA Banquet: It’s that Time of the Year!<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Okay,
yes, I have been a little cranky lately and my posts have reflected that. I blame
the Mayans. In honor of a positive day, here is my blog post:</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tonight,
I got dressed up in my Saturday best and headed out for the end-of-the-year
banquet held at the campus’ special event building—nothing but class for my
department! I was pleasantly surprised to find that all fourteen of my RAs had
arrived before I did, which meant they were on time. They looked very snazzy in
spring dresses and freshly pressed suits. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We took
up two tables near the back. We enjoyed the modest dinner and sweet desserts.
We laughed at various duty stories told by the three most animated RAs. And we
discussed, with melancholy, how different things will be for next year. Several
of my favorite RAs are graduating and a new batch of students will have to fill
their shoes. It brought a few tears to my eyes, but that’s the life of a hall
director.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally,
the awards were announced and my staff won the Most Beer Pong Games Ruined and the Most Likely to Investigate a Phantom Pooper awards. Ironically, I won Most Likely to
Create a Snarky Twitter Account—if only they knew the whole truth. To end the
evening, all graduating seniors were honored for their time of service and more
tears were shed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As
critical I am of our department and some of the stupid things my staff has done
over the past eight months, I cannot ignore the prideful swelling of my heart
when I see how far they have grown as students and as leaders. As much as I
complain about the RAs, I know that most are doing the best they can in a
position that has many challenges. Congratulations RA staff 2011-2012! May next
year’s staff be just as motivated, creative, and funny—although I could do
without the bubble-wrap bandit. You know who you are! </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-3709500457567996172012-04-21T07:19:00.003-07:002012-04-21T07:26:20.982-07:00"Shackled by Debt"<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">My blog
title comes from the first picture in the Huffington Post article, “Obama
Administration, House Dems Push to Prevent Student Loan Rate Hike”. The picture
embodies what many students already feel—that they are unable to envision a
positive and prosperous future thanks to the overwhelming student debt they
have. This article (found <a href="http://tinyurl.com/7a6r5zh" target="_blank">here</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">),
reports that Rep. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) are
working to prevent the doubling of the Federal Direct Stafford Loan rate from 3.4% to
6.8% come July 1, 2012.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Opponents
to the rate freeze argue that by not raising the student loan interest rate, it
would cost tax payers close to $6 billion. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sadly,
I am a card-carrying member of the “Shackled by Debt” Club—a dubious honor I
wish I never had; hence why this topic makes me so angry and disillusioned.
When I was a junior in high school, my mom took me to every college fair in our
area. She pushed me to pick the college that had the perfect fit for my social
and academic needs, rather than on the price tag. Like all parents in the late
1990s, she assured me that a quality college education would be worth it in the
long run. So what did I do? I got a Masters in Education—at times like these, I
wish I had been an accountant instead.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Now, in
a position to counsel students on which career path they should take, it is
hard for me not to tell them to choose the major with the most earning potential.
It pains me to ignore my liberal arts education background or the passion I have
for developing well-rounded students, and push for a job that will make rent, a
family, and a new car possible.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
What happened to our country? What happened to the generation that was told to
do “what makes you happy and the rest will fall into place”? What happened to the
prosperous United States that had a highly educated work force? I’ll tell you
what happened to it—greed became more important than providing a future for the
next generation. Who cares about the hundreds of thousands of college graduates
who cannot afford to move out of their parents’ house because their student
loan bill is more than their car payment! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even
with rent and utilities paid for, I can barely make my $500 a month student
loan payment along with my other expenses, which do not include the occasional contribution to a pathetically
small savings account. Thanks America for forcing the mantra “education is the
key to a bright future” and then abandoning us when we graduate.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-49604660042059665982012-04-17T17:40:00.000-07:002012-04-17T17:47:42.128-07:00Memo: My Boss is a Chump<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Today,
I came to the conclusion that good bosses and a positive work environment
belong in the same category as unicorns and calorie-free ice cream—things that
don’t exist.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Even
since I admitted that I was ready to move to another institution for a different
experience, those around me have taken pleasure in polluting my work space. They
revel in telling my boss the fictional rumors they create—they lie about me
leaving work early, yet forget to tell him how I attended a program with a 101
fever. They also neglect to mention how they spend their entire day playing
Words with Friends or posting pictures to Instagram, all while I am busting my
hump to get my work done so I can go home at a decent hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">It
would be too easy to remind my supervisor which employees arrive to work
dressed in sloppy jeans and dingy sneakers instead of a professional outfit, or
those who take 2-hour lunches. But, I refuse to defend myself by pointing out
the failures of others, because I know it would do no good. Unlike my
co-workers, I am not a petty bitch. I try to believe that eventually their
laziness will be their downfall; however, until then, I have to work extra hard
just to avoid being yelled at by the spineless jellyfish that is my boss.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">To top
it off, this afternoon he sent us a passive-aggressive memo listing, in detail,
our responsibilities as well as when we need to report to work, just in case I
had forgotten. For your reading enjoyment, I have included a few gems: “You are
expected to report to your assigned desk chair at your prearranged time and
leave at the prearranged time. Leaving early is not permitted unless permission
is given for a request made at least 72 hours in advance” and “You are
permitted to request release from office/desk duties when time is slow, but
only if all employees vote in the affirmative”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As soon
as he hit the SEND button, the little coward slinked out the back office door
and headed home with barely a wave. So much for the maturity of grown men in
professional positions. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-25111137074678698932012-04-16T11:24:00.000-07:002012-04-16T11:24:35.103-07:00In Honor of the 32 Victims: 32 Words of RemembranceFive years ago, Virginia Tech showed the nation how their strong community would carry them through the tragedy of April 16—they would not allow hate to define them. Live on Hokies!<br />
<br />
<br />BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-4168607078983936922012-04-06T17:59:00.003-07:002012-04-06T18:10:37.728-07:00Quarter-Life Crisis<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Earlier
today, as I stared at myself in the mirror, I realized that I am in the middle
of a genuine quarter-life crisis. Even though I have been peering into the same
mirror everyday for the past few years or more, this morning was different. What
am I doing still living in a residence hall…at my age? Why am I still working a
job that has not made me feel completely fulfilled for some time? Did I waste
my potential by taking the hall director position? Did I make a mistake
choosing Education rather than Accounting?</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Today,
I spent hours poring over every major decision I have made in my life and critically
questioned each of them. I have tried to be a person who lives without regret—everything
happens for a reason is my motto. But, at times like these, I wonder if I
should have taken college more seriously. I goofed off and skipped too many
classes, which made my trip to graduation a longer one. What if I had taken the
typical four years to get my Bachelors? Would I be the same person typing this
blog post?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And,
what if I chose Accounting or Computer Science as my major, which I had wanted
to do when I was younger, rather than Education. Would I be a more successful person?
Would I have my own home and a corner office with a view of the city? Would I
be happier? Would I have more money? Does more money equal happiness? I love
what I do—sometimes—but, there are days when I wish I had taken a more
conventional path. Who grows up wanting to be a hall director anyway?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As I
impatiently wait for the phone to ring with a job offer, or at least an
invitation for an on-campus visit, I sadly wonder if I made the right decision.
To assuage the stress and doubt, I try to remind myself that who I am today
would never be if it was not for the mistakes, the challenges, the risks, and
the crazy decision to postpone paying rent. To quote Batman, I guess I am the
person I deserve, not the person I need or want to be. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-84328041385542892912012-03-26T18:55:00.001-07:002012-04-06T18:11:59.129-07:00RA Group Process = The Hunger Games<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">A few
of my hall director friends and I just saw Hunger Games. Despite what I
originally thought it would be like, I loved it! It left me unsettled, uncomfortable,
and unsure if I liked the future—it’s always so mean. It also inspired me to
look at Residential Life as the Capital and the RA Selection as the Hunger
Games.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What if
we replaced group process with a battle to the death? The one left standing
wins the position. I think this would solve a few issues with our selection
process, one being a lack of motivated candidates. If you want to be an RA, you
better want it bad; otherwise you will die at the stinger of a tracker jacker. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But, honestly,
how different is our group process compared to the whole Hunger Games process
anyway? First, we choose a select few students who may or may not turn out to
be superb candidates, or tributes. With the quality of candidate I see, sometimes
I really think we simply pick names from a jar. Secondly, we sit around as
judgmental spectators as they flaunt their abilities, trying to get noticed and
make an impression. After all, when we are evaluating 20-24 students, it is
hard to remember the average candidates. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly,
they must beat out their competition, especially during Carousel when there can be only one winner—the candidate who earns the job. They may not stab a sword
into their opponents’ hearts; however, they have to be cunning, ruthless, and
likeable all while being observed by us. To all the future RA candidates: May
the odds be ever in your favor.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-83264920625252787142012-03-22T19:22:00.004-07:002012-04-06T18:10:00.988-07:00There Are No Sick Days in Residential Life<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pardon
the brevity of my post; I’m pretty sure I have walking pneumonia or at least
one of the worst colds I have had in a while. As I lay on my couch, waiting for
the wonderful effects of </span><span style="font-size: 15px;">NyQuil</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> to take hold, I’m left wondering if hall
directors can ever take a real sick day. Can I truly “call in sick” if work is
mere feet away from where I am now? Can it be considered a day off for rest if
no one in the building knows or honors it, and insists on knocking on my door?</span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Today,
maintenance decided, without providing any notice, they needed to inspect the
vent duct that runs through my apartment. So, at 7:30am, they pounded on my
front door and demanded entrance. Even as I stood there with a red nose,
bloodshot eyes, and a fistful of used tissues, they showed no sympathy for my
state of health. I told them they could wait until next week; however, they
argued with me until I gave up in frustration and allowed them to traipse
through my den of sick. A part of me
hopes they get a cold too—at least their sick day would be uninterrupted by
work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When
they call in sick, do I drive to their house and push my way through their
front door? I understand a free apartment in only free on paper, but there
needs to be a point when human decency trumps a work order. Sadly, whenever a
hall director takes a sick day, they are still expected to entertain their constituents.
As my title aptly describes my week, there are no sick days in Residential Life. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-7895453644664565902012-03-16T16:35:00.000-07:002012-03-16T16:41:54.954-07:00Still Feeling the Effects of Virginia Tech<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Yesterday, the courts determined that Virginia Tech
officials did not act fast enough or provide enough information on April 16, 2007
to prevent the deaths of 33 people (the entire article can be viewed <a href="http://chronicle.com/article/Verdict-Sends-a-Strong-Message/131176/?sid=at&utm_source=at&utm_medium=en" target="_blank">here</a>). Next
month will commemorate the fifth anniversary of the largest massacre on a
college campus in our nation’s history, and this has other colleges wondering
how this will affect their emergency response. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I have mixed feelings about the ruling. It is easy to ‘Monday
morning quarterback’ any situation and criticize how poorly it was handled once
you are removed from the immediate stress of the moment. I have confronted
enough incidents, granted none as severe as Virginia Tech, to know that you do
what you think is needed as it happens and then debrief what could be done
differently after the crisis is resolved. No matter how much training responders
have, nothing compares to the actual incident; sometimes things go wrong.
Unfortunately, when things went wrong the morning of April 16, people died.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A year ago, when my institution had an alleged gunman on
our campus, the college immediately sent out email and text messages alerting
everyone to stay away from our academic quad. Within a few hours, the video
that prompted the lock-down was released to the media and questioned whether
there was even a gun to begin with—the object under the person’s arm looked more
like a lacrosse stick. However, university officials, aware of what can occur
if timely notifications are not sent, erred on the side of caution. However, to
this day, people still argue the alert was sent prematurely. Damned if you do,
damned if you don’t.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Jury verdict or not, nothing will change the events of
April 16 or the incredible sadness I feel for the Virginia Tech community. I
was relatively new to Residential Life when the world learned of this tragedy,
and the terror I felt at the prospect of confronting and surviving this type of
violence was very real for the first few years. Sadly, for our generation,
Virginia Tech will be synonymous with mass destruction and loss of life, just
like Oklahoma City and Columbine. My thoughts and sympathies go out to all the
families who lost someone on that fateful day. Hopefully, this verdict will
ensure this never happens again. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
(PS: After
writing this post, I found this <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57398703-504083/umbrella-caused-rochester-institute-of-technogy-campus-lockdown-says-sheriff/" target="_blank">article</a> about Rochester Institute for
Technology's lock-down after a student was seen carrying what appeared to be a
rifle. In the end, police discovered it was the handle of an umbrella. Although
students and staff have already created t-shirts and Facebook groups teasing how seriously it was taken, university officials responded in a way that is now expected of college campuses.)</div>
<br />BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-60366316479430372492012-03-15T19:28:00.003-07:002012-03-15T19:45:37.908-07:00Gender-Neutral Housing, Wave of the FutureA quick glance at my iPad calendar shows me that the year is still 2012, and yet we insist on debating the issue of equality for same-sex
couples and members of the LGBT Community. Seriously? One of the GOP
presidential candidates, Rick Santorum, compares homosexuality to deviant sex,
like bestiality and pedophilia. Unfortunately, ignorant and bigoted morons like
Santorum are not the only examples of the intense homophobia sweeping the
nation. For the most part, Residential Life still restricts housing based on one’s
sex (what mother nature gave us), rather than gender (socially constructed).<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
However, according to the <i>Oklahoma</i> <i>Daily</i>, the
newspaper for the University of Oklahoma (<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/the-oklahoma-daily/gender-neutral-housing_b_1348219.html?ref=college" target="_blank">for article click here</a>), the campus is fighting
for gender-neutral housing in the hope they can change the Conservative bent of
their state and provide "a little step" in the right direction. For those unfamiliar with why gender-neutral housing is so important
for the LGBT Community, here you go: it provides students who may possess one
set of sex organs, but identify as a different gender, with a safe environment
in which to live. Usually, gender-neutral residence halls permit anyone to live
with each other regardless of gender—so men can live with women and vice versa.
It also eliminates gender-separate bathrooms, which avoids the uncomfortable
and intimidating choice as to which bathroom to use.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
As common sense as this type of housing is, many colleges
are still uncomfortable offering this as an option. At a conference presentation I attended
on this issue, the presenters cited the following reasons: colleges are nervous
that alumni will object to this new style of housing and may stop donating; they
are worried conservative parents will oppose unmarried men and women living
together; and they are fearful of becoming a lightning rod for special interests
who may target them for having this new form of housing.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Side note: it amazes me how the biggest issue with some parents is the possibility of unmarried men and women living together, yet they have not noticed that traditional housing permits same-sex couples to live together--unmarried.</i><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Listen, first, just because a man and woman live together
does not mean they are having wild orgies and key parties. And second, just
because a man who identifies as a woman wants to use the restroom in a
comfortable and dignified way does not mean they are indoctrinating other
students into the “gay lifestyle”. Although I was not around when this happened, I am sure when residence halls went co-ed, there were lots of opposition out of concern
that there would be a whole lotta sex going on. Hazarding a guess,
there was probably plenty of sex happening before men and women lived in the
same building. Humans are resourceful when it comes to hooking up. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
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Gender-neutral housing is the next best thing coming to residence halls across the nation, so we might as well accept it. Members of the LGBT
Community have the right to live in a comfortable and nonthreatening
environment where they can experience college without fear of being attacked or harassed.
As the <i>Oklahoma Daily</i> states, LGBT Rights is the Civil Rights of our
generation, and just like our parents (or grandparents), we need to encourage
(or force) our campuses to make daring decisions that may make the Extreme
Right unhappy. Permitting blacks and whites to study together in the same
school and same classroom was once considered radical, but it happened. Why? Because a few
stood up for the rights of the many and brought down segregation. Now it’s our
turn. </div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-66889094821211919602012-03-12T16:04:00.000-07:002012-03-12T16:04:57.800-07:00Mr. Longbottom Must Have Been an RAAfter years of subjecting myself to RA training, I know
the topics and lessons by heart. We have on-duty procedures, role modeling,
administrative responsibilities, fire safety, and door tags & bulletin
boards. Of course, my favorite is assertiveness training, mostly because no
matter how many times I experience the presentation, I tick off in my head the names of
professional staff that should learn from it.<br />
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This morning, I awoke to find Lana, a fellow hall director, had defriended me on Facebook. Normally, I would have never noticed since
I just do not care enough to pay attention to my friends number. However, this
time I saw it, because we had just completed a heated, yet intelligent and
mature conversation about a comment I made on my wall and a passive-aggressive
response she made on her wall, and I wanted to make sure I edited her out of a post I was writing in case it angered her. </div>
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What started this whole hub-bub? Let's rewind. Last night, after her veiled, yet obvious post directed at my wall comment, I made the effort to confront Lana. I am tired of people passively complaining about me when they know I will read it. (Side note: I am
very aware of how hypocritical this comment is since I anonymously post snarky
ResLife comments on a Twitter account.). I
wanted to be assertive and reasonable with my conversation; I did not want to
jump to conclusions, and I wanted an opportunity for us to air our grievances
so we could be closer friends.</div>
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When we ended our hour-long conversation, I was pleased.
I truly felt that we had said our peace and got to know how the other person felt
without resorting to name-calling or abusive language. For once, I was thrilled
that my assertiveness had a positive result. Obviously, the exchange we had
last night did not go as well as I thought it did.<br />
<br />
And people wonder why I post
anonymously as @BadHallDirector.</div>
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My frustrations extend beyond last night’s incident and
this morning’s revelation. It encompasses the consistent pattern of me
confronting behavior that is bothersome, me feeling relieved that I took the
uncomfortable step to maturely discuss, and me getting burned after the fact.
We tell our RAs, “don’t be afraid to be assertive and express your opinions. It’s
tough, but it’s how adults handle problems”. Yet, how many hall directors, et
al. actually follow this advice? Even my own boss who is 7 years older than me
cannot confront me—he has to post his displeasure on his
Facebook page! </div>
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Maybe, I took too seriously what Dumbledore told
Neville at the end of <i>Harry Potter and
the Philosopher’s Stone</i>: “It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to
our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends” (Rowling, 1998, p.306).
If only every time I stood up to my friends, I received 10 points for
Gryffindor. Of course, I’m really a Hufflepuff, but that’s for another post. </div>
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(This is a great summary of how I’m feeling: <a href="http://www.quotes-clothing.com/takes-bravery-stand-up-enemies-friends-albus-dumbledore/" target="_blank">Dumbledore's poignant words</a>)</div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-45058521564781008052012-03-09T12:04:00.001-08:002012-03-11T08:01:32.432-07:00Die at My DeskIt’s the American Way: work and sacrifice so many hours
until you eventually die at your desk, with the gold appreciation pen you got
instead of a raise still in your cold, dead hand. <br />
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How many of us, on our death bed, will wish we had
finished that last report or spent a few additional hours at the office? I am willing
to venture a guess and say none. We will probably lament about the lost opportunities
to spend more time with our partners, children, or family; but, I doubt we will be
devastated we never took on the responsibility of an extra committee
assignment. <br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<a name='more'></a>I just get back from TPE, I am exhausted, and I am owed a
few hours of comp time. Instead of coming in today at 8:30, I relaxed, got my
life together, and arrived at the office around 10:30am. My boss and the rest
of the crew knew I was out, they knew I had planned to be a few hours late, and
they know I am not a slacker who takes advantage of flex time. However, upon entering the office, I could feel the anger, judgment, and hatred radiating off everyone who had already arrived for the day<br />
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The office manager ignored my “good morning” and the
others just looked at me as if I had committed a felony. Since when did taking a few
hours off constitute a crime? Since when did I have to inform my boss exactly where I am
at all times? Since when was I 14 years old? I was hired as a professional; I
was told I was allowed some flexibility with my hours; and I am not about to work
myself into a stress coma. Returning from lunch, the mood continued to be tense
and icy--it stayed that way all day. I’m sure Monday, will be joyful. What a
bunch of bulls**t!</div>
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Two years ago, I made a vow that I would no longer work
so hard that I was a bundle of anxiety or that my personal life would suffer. I
have not been told outright that what I am doing is not allowed. In fact, I have been given the green light on several occasions. Why are Americans obsessed with killing themselves for their work? One of my
co-workers does nothing but sit in her office checking Facebook, yet everyone fawns over her as “a dedicated employee”. Why? Because she pretends she’s working just enough to make her appear busy. I’d rather be
efficient, get my work done early, and be judged, rather than be a labor faker.</div>
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I’m sorry, but there is no life-award for having no life
and dying of a heart attack in the middle of a staff meeting. Death by deadline
does not give you bragging rights; rather it gives you angina, high blood
pressure, and the greater chance of keeling over before your time. Enjoy life—do your job well,
but NEVER put it before your happiness. No matter how many late nights and
early mornings you put in, your gravestone will never say “devoted employee”. </div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-53182596209822796522012-03-04T16:49:00.000-08:002012-03-06T05:48:28.988-08:00Dear Resident: You Wasted My Time, I’m SuingScore one for the whiny, helpless Millennials that
populate our residence halls. Lindsay Blankmeyer, formerly a student at
Stonehill College in Massachusetts is suing the school, because her roommate
had lots of sex while she was in the room. Okay, yes, that is gross and in
really poor taste. But, worthy of a lawsuit? Hardly.<br />
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According to the ABC News article found here (<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><a href="http://tinyurl.com/87njrht">http://tinyurl.com/87njrht</a>), Blankmeyer’s
roommate engaged in sexual intercourse with her boyfriend while Blankmeyer
tried to sleep on her side of the room. In addition, the roommate had erotic
webcam sessions—again, while Blankmeyer was present. Before I go any further, I
need to note that Blankmeyer was a SENIOR at this point, which means at least
20 or 21 years old. Rather than confront her roommate, she did what most of my
residents do (they are much younger though) and ran to the hall director.
Mediation was held, Blankmeyer was offered a new room or a single, and she was
even allowed to finish her degree at home instead of staying on-campus.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"></span><br />
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Anyone hazard a guess as to how the little brat decided? To whine about
it some more, complain that she had to move into a residence hall with a party
reputation (which halls don’t have this?) or into a <i>teeny-tiny space </i>that was once a lounge. All this stress caused her
to fall into a deep depression, although she had a history of it prior to
attending college. Her parents said her hall director did nothing to help her—of
course they did. Parents do not believe the hall personnel do anything unless
they bow to their children’s feet and build them their own deluxe room with a
private bathroom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">In the end, Blankmeyer left Stonehill and completed her degree at home. I
bet the hall director breathed a sigh of relief when she moved out. I am sorry
Blankmeyer, the supposed stress you endured at the hand of the evil hall
director (note: sarcasm) does not entitle you to $150,000 in damages. The only
reason you are suing is because your parents are too dumb to realize that this
is what college entails—you will like some of the people you interact with and
others you will grow to hate. Plus, your family must have money to burn if they
bothered to hire an attorney to sue for your roommate having sex.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style=>Poor taste and inconsiderate actions is what this case boils down to. Was
Blankmeyer’s roommate nasty? Absolutely! Should she have been kicked out of the
hall for this behavior? No. I am sure the hall director dictated a compromise
and maybe even recompleted a roommate agreement detailing that no one has sex
in the room while the other roommate is there. Common sense? Yes, but not all
residents have the mental wherewithal to understand common decency. However,
hall directors are not the moral police. They cannot prevent every
uncomfortable situation from happening. Residents: start learning to be
assertive and stop expecting professional staff, mommy and daddy, and the
courts to solve your problems.</span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">Grow up!</span></div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-75976260247271701402012-03-02T16:22:00.001-08:002012-03-11T08:05:00.095-07:00Rush Limbaugh: Greatest Reason for Birth ControlWell, the overinflated windbag sure has stepped in it
this time. Thanks to his insensitive and sexist comments, his advertisers are
fleeing like freshmen from a Frat party. Just when I thought the birth control
debate could not get any more insulting, Rush has exceeded my expectations of
douche-baggery; he called the young lady, who wanted to testify as to why women should have affordable access to birth control, a “slut”.<br />
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My heart goes out to you, Stacy Fluke. I also want to say
thank you! Thank you for standing up for the rights of all women. Having “too
much sex”, as Rush cited as the reason for the high cost of birth control, is
hardly why women want insurance companies to cover it. Besides providing a
woman with the right to choose when or if she has a baby, there are far more uses for the Pill. For instance, my sister was prescribed the Pill
starting when she was a junior in high school; NOT because she was whoring
around, but because she had extremely low levels of iron in her blood—she was
anemic—and the Pill helped regulate that. I also have a friend who is on the
Pill, because she suffers from ovarian cysts. She may never have children
thanks to this disease. Trust me, she is not whoring around either. </div>
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I am SO sick and tired of conservative Neanderthals dictating
what women can do with their bodies. Until one of them pops out a baby or bleeds
once a month, they have no say in what happens to their wife’s, girlfriend’s,
daughter’s, or co-workers’ vaginas. They do not have one; therefore, they do
not stipulate what goes on in there. Plus, I wonder how other conservatives, like Rick
Santorum, even have kids. I am pretty sure he is scared of sex and sees it only
as a way to continue the human race. If he was not a stain on our society and a
crazed danger to our freedoms, I might have pity for him. </div>
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Have we forgotten that if heterosexual men want sex, they
need a woman willing to give it to them? Unless they’re rapists, and even then,
I think Rush would be more supportive of forced sex than women having the right
to be covered for birth control—but, I digress. Maybe I should send a care
package to all the Republican men (and Rush) who call women who want access to
contraception sluts: blow-up dolls. It’s the perfect solution! They don’t talk
back. They’ll happily agree missionary is the only acceptable position. And
they won’t ask for the Pill. The ideal Republican woman—Blow-up Wanda. </div>
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One last thing: if insurance companies refuse to cover
birth control and the conservative zealots claim it mars our society’s morals,
then I say take away Viagra. I find all those bathtub commercials offensive and
amoral anyway. </div>BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1947716635081106735.post-4619859451581553542012-02-29T18:09:00.001-08:002012-02-29T18:09:49.449-08:00Thank You!Normally I am snarky as hell. However, given the rarity
of Leap Year, I thought it appropriate for me to show my rare mushy side—just this
once! Thank you to all my followers, my commentators, and my readers. Without
you, the BadHallDirector blog would just be a neat format to hold my ramblings.
Knowing that I have a loyal base keeps me motivated to write relevant posts and
be as honest as I can. Residential Life is a crazy profession and without a
laugh or two, none of us will survive. Thank you again, and keep reading!BadHallDirectorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04991415358312871879noreply@blogger.com3