Thanksgiving Break Goals

I would like to set some goals on this Thanksgiving break: (UPDATED. If crossed out, DONE.)

•  Catch up in Biochem. That means study the class notes. Do the reading. Answer the hw problems I had. Correct my test. Study for upcoming test. 7 hours. (Update: 2.5/7 hrs)
•  Catch up in Physics. Do the HW. Do the reading. I'd say about 5 hours. (4.3/5 hours)
•  Nutritional Biochem. Catch up on reading. Prep for quizzes. Look over class notes. 4 hours. (2.75/4). Still have some catching up to do. 
•  Philosophy. Catch up on reading. Send Dallin notes. 3 hours. (1.5/3). Only have half a chapter left. 
•  Run everyday for an hour and text Jordan.  
•  Finish my U of U application (and possibly WSU). 2 hours. Only needed one. 
•  Have a great time in SLC with Chantelle on Thurs!
•  Work. 14 hours. (13.25/14).  :) Rounding up. 
•  Chores at home. Laundry & clean room & clean dishes & get groceries. 3 hours. (2/3)
•  Write in blog. This totally counts. 
•  Write my two best friends: Helena and Eleise.
•  Watch a movie.
• Plan out gifts! 

Goals for this week:

• Biochem. Answer the HW problems I had. Correct test. Study for upcoming test. Group study. (10 hours)
• Nutritional Biochem. Prep for quizzes (finish reading). Look over class notes. Talk to Dr. Parker. (4 hours)
• Philosophy. Finish reading. (1 hour)
• Community Nutrition. Email about not being in class on Thurs. Analyze the survey data. Do a demonstration. Finish write-up. (6 hours)
• Physics. Talk to professor about missing class. Talk to TA to get class notes. Study with Steph. Study for test. (10 hours)
• Visit sisters! 
• Write two best friends. 

Working through College

Walking down the stairs out of church today, I had a lot on my mind. There were people I needed to talk to, assignments to complete, and finances to sort out.

While I was filling out my tithing slip, I stopped to listen to what was happening. All around me there were people standing around chatting and laughing with each other. It was one of those moments were I just wanted to pause time and enjoy their happiness. I felt like I was part of something that truly makes me happy, because I am surrounded by people with the inclination of natural affection. 

Moments like this happen everyday and I have been meaning to pour my words and thoughts onto this blog. Many little distractions have gotten in my way, but alas, I found the time. 

I have spent much time reflecting on my experiences these last three years in Provo. Tonight I want to focus on the unique job opportunities that have come my way. 

First, student caller and leadership member at the Telefund. 

This is a picture of my friend Collin and I during a photoshoot at the Telefund. This place was a miracle of a job! I learned so much about myself here. I learned how to connect with people from all different backgrounds--on the phones and also on the calling floor. This job strengthened my testimony of charity and Jesus Christ. I love this place still! 

Second job, prostate cancer research assistant. 

This job has been extremely difficult, yet rewarding. I have learned problem solving skills and leadership ability. My research professor has been a great example of mercy and wisdom. Who ever thought that I would be researching cancer as an undergraduate student?

Third job, river rafting guide. 

Thanks to my friend Dani Brading, I met the Hazard family. They are amazing! I worked for them on the Provo river and got my captain's license. The second picture is the Westwater trip we did in September on the Colorado. I got to meet people that love the outdoors as much as I do, and they taught me to continue this passion throughout my life. And to be proactive about it. 

Now, I have been offered a job at Sundance, a local ski resort as a retail specialist!

When I interviewed for this job, it was awesome! I felt like I wasn't trying to fit the job, I was seeing if the job fit me. The people were so sweet. It was really a miracle! How I will focus on my school work next semester, well...that's another issue. But, I feel extremely lucky to have this resort so close to my apartment. 

If you would have told me 3 years ago, as a senior in high school that I would be a student leadership member at a call center, a cancer research assistant, a rafting guide, and a ski resort worker, I would have laughed in your face and called you crazy. It's really funny how life turns out like that. Especially because these places have offered me happiness I never imagined for myself. God works in mysterious ways.