The Office of Admissions will be closed on Thursday, November 19, from 12-1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Food for thought
Hey student we are finally here!!! This week and that’s it...well for some. I know some classes still run into next week, but this is my last week. I am so relieved! I have been on the edge because this semester has been tough. I am actually taking a May mini, so I’m hoping it won’t be too bad. Plus I am taking classes this summer, so I do not think I will be going anywhere for summer vacation. I hope some of ya’ll get to do something fun! I wish I could go to Schlitterbahn in San Marcus. I hear it is huge and a lot of fun, but oh well, it will have to be for some other time. I was online and I came across this article that will be very useful for students. I am not a coffee drinker or energy drink aficionado; I think all that caffeine is not good for you in the long run. I try to eat healthy which I do about eighty percent of the time. The last time I ate junk food was about 3 weeks ago. I don’t know if any of ya’ll have gone through this where you don’t eat junk food for a while and when it makes you feel sick. I hate that feeling. Okay back to this article on Yahoo!. It’s a collection of brain foods that are healthy and boost you memory, give you energy, or make you wind down. For long term memory, blueberries are the best; it helps reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. For concentration, peppermint tea will help, but did you know the smell of peppermint makes you focus? If you would like to see the rest, go to Yahoo! and search “Best and Worst Brain Foods.”
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Hard Case of the "Stress"
Hello students,
It has been a hectic month for all of us. For some reason this semester has been more work than all the others. It is almost over though, I have already signed up for my summer classes. I hope they’re not as stressful as this semester has been. By now most of ya’ll have heard of the swine flu and what is happening in Mexico. I talked to my aunt a couple of days ago; she lives in San Luis Potosi. My aunt said that people should stay away from public areas. Teachers in Mexico cannot go back to work until the eighth of May. Most of the flu medicine has run out in the pharmacies. People are walking around with those little white masks that go over the nose and mouth. My family has stayed away from public places as much as possible, but it is hard when you have to go to the grocery store for food or other supplies. Hopefully the situation will improve; I would like to return to Mexico by the end of the year. This new strain of flu is treatable. I pulled up some information on the swine flu from MercuryNews.com and here is what they say:
Swine influenza or swine flu is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by an influenza virus.
Symptoms are similar to the flu symptoms such as coughing, chills, fever, etc…
It is spread by person to person, similar to the flu.
Try to stay healthy by washing your hands.
Swine flu can be treated by two types of medication; some people in the United States have recovered without any medication.
Try to stay healthy everyone!!!!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
The Hard Case of the "Stress"
Hello again students;
It has started— the stress that is. I finally went to sleep around one or two in the morning finishing up a paper. Today, I still have to find my way back to the university to turn in some other assignments. This semester has been one of the most stressful semesters I have ever undergone. I am guessing most of you are at the same level of stress as I. The semester is almost over, but you should try not to stress over it too much. It is bad for your health. I found these good pointers online on ehow.com. You might feel some of these symptoms when you have constant worries (school work): moodiness, memory problems, etc…
These are some ways to kick stress in the butt:
Set boundaries and don't let people move them, do not procrastinate on homework. Because once you reach the due date, pressure increases for the material to get done.
Do activities you love. Drawing, dancing, singing, gardening, cooking, even cleaning (if you enjoy it) or playing with your children
Banish those self-inflicted, inner "rules" that demand you be the perfect husband, the best mother, the most productive employee or the first in your class to ace a test. Life alone brings enough stress to your doorstep. Why create more?
Stop putting things off and get rid of the clutter in your house and in your office. These things alone will help you feel more in control of your life and when you feel you're in the driver's seat, you're less likely to get tripped up by stress.
Massage, acupuncture, which I personally her helps tremendously. Massage increases serotonin, the chemical that helps with sleep, anxiety and depression and increases dopamine, which provides the body with pleasurable sensations, smoothing stress away before it can build up.
Drink water and green tea; no cokes or fruit juices. No high calorie meals and snacks throughout the day to keep anxiety at bay. Vitamin B helps smooth out your mood and you can find it in foods like low fat beef, low fat milk, cottage cheese, fruit, almonds, blueberries, tuna and cornflakes.
Good Luck everyone on their assignments!!!!!!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Grad School
As graduation come to a close my worries about school choices for grad school increase. I am also looking at a number of schools. The only thing I regret is not having time to volunteer and join more clubs which is something I highly suggest to do for those who want to get into really good schools. UHCL does offer various clubs to join and always needs volunteers for events. If you are looking, visit the Student Life in the SSCB. There are a lot of flyers with information on how and when you can volunteer. Also, if you have not signed up for summer and fall classes, they are already available online. Some are currently full; that is why you need to register early. All I have this week are papers and presentations that are due. “Finals” fast approaches in the weeks ahead; I hope everyone has a good week and gets to catch up on their school assignments.
"Motivation is everything. You can do the work of two people, but you can't be two people. Instead, you have to inspire the next guy down the line and get him to inspire his people. " -Lee Iacocca
"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, "I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along." . . . You must do the thing you think you cannot do." -Eleanor Roosevelt
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Childcare in Univesity's
Hey students! The schedule for the summer sessions and the May mini-mester is out already. It is another race to see who makes it in class, because they fill up quick. I signed up for one class; hopefully it won’t be that bad. If you haven’t been to the second floor of the Bayou building, there are some really nice works of art from high school student on display. I finally began painting again. Yesterday I began painting a mural on our courtyard outside of the house; I’ll finish it one of these days.
On a different note, I have noticed parent-students sometimes bring their children to class. I have yet to see a university with childcare. I think many students are willing to pay for childcare at the university. This will allow having the child close to pick up and drop of when you have class. I do think they are a necessity; it will attract more perspective students and student retention will probably increase. It’s just an idea…
“Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands.” -Anne Frank
“All men and women are born, live suffer and die; what distinguishes us one from another is our dreams, whether they be dreams about worldly or unworldly things, and what we do to make them come about... We do not choose to be born. We do not choose our parents. We do not choose our historical epoch, the country of our birth, or the immediate circumstances of our upbringing. We do not, most of us, choose to die; nor do we choose the time and conditions of our death. But within this realm of choicelessness, we do choose how we live.” -Joseph Epstein
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Too Much School...
Hey students! We have five more weeks to go!!! I’m kind of excited. I am attending the summer session so as soon as I am finished with my class work, I will be getting ready for more class work. This year the university is offering a May mini-mester, which I first heard of at Lee College where they offered them a lot. I was able to finish my associates in a year and a half thanks to theses mini-mesters. The thing is that they only offered two classes for the May mini-mester which is rather limited. Hopefully UHCL would add more in the future. I think these summer classes are good because they gives you credit for a month or two of school compared to the fall or spring semester.
I am not sure if all of ya’ll know about the web site ratemyprofessor.com, but it’s a website where students rate their professors (thus the name). The web site is helpful when deciding what type of professor you are looking for. I am taking a couple of electives and I really don’t want or need a class that feels like a core class. Somehow it seems that all of my elective classes seem to be the hardest. If you know of a good, but fair professor let me know. I can also suggest some to all of you.
"People take different roads seeking fulfillment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost." -H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
"To live a pure unselfish life, one must count nothing as one's own in the midst of abundance." -Buddha
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Flat Tummies
Hey everyone! Five more weeks to go! This is the time we have the most work on our plate. I have an unbelievable amount of papers due and oddly, they are all due around the same time. I bet most of ya’ll are dealing with the same thing. Okay, for the past month I have been trying to lose weight. I am staying away from fast food and eating less. I found this great article that gives some good advice, especially for the tummy area which is the toughest part of the body to trim.
High vitamin C food such as grapefruit, oranges, and cantaloupes helps reduce fat absorption.
Teas such as green tea or white tea also carry a lot of antioxidants. I have actually seen results with teas. I mostly drink chamomile which help a lot with cramps and bloating (especially bloating).
Foods with high fructose corn syrup carry extra calories that turn right into fat.
All these ideas are specifically target your tummy area. I know it can be difficult to eat healthy when you get out late from school. Many of us rush home to make dinner and have homework, and the quickest thing is fast food. And unfortunately, eating healthy and organic is somewhat expensive. But preparing your own meals can be a great way to save money and eat healthier.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Back to School
Welcome back from spring break. I hope everyone had a good vacation. Mine was okay; I went camping for about three days. Let me just leave it at that okay! I was able to get some school work done, and I hope I wasn’t the only one. As of this week I have so much stuff to do for school— papers, papers, and more papers. I know some of you have a hobby or something you do to get your mind off of school— for me it is gardening. I planted some tomatoes, jalapenos, zucchinis, and onions. They are growing perfectly! Gardening is my stress reliever. Let me know what yours is. Some people watch TV while others take walks to relax themselves from work or school. I think it is important to wind down. Since school started, I have not have time to paint which I miss so much. If you were not able to escape the Houston area for spring break, here are some ideas that are close to home.
Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St. Houston, Texas 77004-6804
Children's Museum of Houston 1500 Binz Houston, TX 77004
And of course my favorite: The Houston Zoo 1513 N Macgregor Dr Houston, TX 77030
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Mexico
Hey students! Classes have been going okay for me, we are almost done. I wanted to talk about all those warnings from the police at UHCL and the school newspaper is talking about. Right know the situation in Mexico is kind of difficult. Since we have a big Hispanic population here in Texas many of us still visit Mexico because we have family there. I went this past Christmas even though gang related violence was going on. In remember driving back, about an hour away from the border (still in Mexico) there was a sign saying that Mexico should bring back the death penalty. Mexico has not executed anyone since 1937. With the increase in gangs and drug trafficking, Mexican citizens have had enough. The crime has affected citizens and business owners alike. Violence has also spilled into U.S. border towns. If any student is thinking of going to Mexico this spring break be careful and try to drive in the daytime as much as possible.
“Spaghetti can be eaten most successfully if you inhale it like a vacuum cleaner.” -Sophia Loren
“To the outside world we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other's hearts. We share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time.” -Clara Ortega
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Walking Buddy
Let me start of by saying that it is a shame that someone was assaulted on campus this week. I hope the UHCL employee is okay. I think about that a lot, especially when I leave class around 10pm. I always try to walk with someone to the parking lot, because you never know what is going to happen. Especially now since the economy has gone down the drain. It seems that a lot more violent acts like this are happening everywhere. Students, if you can, try to walk with a classmate to your car—especially at night. There aren’t a lot of people out there and those emergency things where you can call for help are very far. You need to be a marathon runner to reach one of those (lol). By the time you make it to one you might as well have run into the building. I’m not trying to insult the police; they are very good at their job. I see them patrolling around campus and they do a good job for the most part, except when they give me tickets for my parking pass. I plan to get a handgun license and I am a big supporter of my first amendment rights. To each his own preferred method of safety. There are actually many a few alternatives to guns, such as a tasers, pepper spray (which I see many girls carry on their key chain), and stun guns. Every time I think of a stun gun I get flashbacks of, To Catch a Predator, where predators who solicit underage kids online are set up in a sting operation and then tasered by the police when they would try to flee. Alright students stay safe and find a walking buddy.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Here comes Spring Break!
Hey students! Two more weeks till spring break; I’m definitely looking forward to that. There are many things one can do while on spring break. Hopefully I get a chance to go somewhere. Kids will be out of school too, so if you can, plan a small and close trip (anywhere in Texas). There is a web site I’m posting to give you some ideas on what to do for spring break. Unfortunately some of us will be doing homework. Homework is also killing me; hopefully some of you are having more luck. I encourage you to check out this web site. Spring or summer is the best time to travel and there are so many things to do such as: fairs, parades and cook outs (which are my favorite). I love food and I’m never too scared to try something new. I am also a big antique person, so I like to see what’s out there in different places. Well if you can’t make it out of town here are some upcoming events here at the university:
Saturday, March 28 Cultural Extravaganza 7:00 - 10:00 pm, Bayou Theater Open to all. Free. Register your performance - cultural dancing, singing, poetry or traditional costume walk- by Fri, Mar 6. Celebrate cultures of the world through music, dance and food. Sponsor: Intercultural and International Student Services Contact: IISS@uhcl.edu, 281 283 2575
Tuesday, March 31 Texas Job Fair 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Texas Southern University - Health & PE Building Open to all UHCL Students. Job fair details are available at www.haccc.org/TexasJobFair.htm. Please check back to see about limited shuttle availability from UHCL. Sponsor: HACCC, Houston Area Consortium of Career Centers Contact: Career Services
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Countdown
We are in week 5 of the semester, once you are close to graduation it becomes a countdown. School work has been crazy but it’s going well. Well scholarships are now available and should be up until the end of this month. I had been having trouble with Stars program that is used for the scholarships. There are thousands and maybe millions of dollars unclaimed for scholarships every year. A lot of students don’t know where to find them, but the best and easiest way is online. Most of them require you to have a good GPA and some also entail writing an essay on what you plan to do in life once you finish graduation. It’s not that bad, we should be use to ten-page papers. Okay I have a test in a couple of hours and have not had a chance to study. I still have to make dinner in a little while. Hopefully this test won’t be bad. Lately, the weather has been ugly; it has been raining almost all week. It has stopped all my outdoor activities; I have not been able to garden. Spring break is in three weeks…yes! I’m definitely doing something and going somewhere. Laters! Keep up the hard work!!!!!!!!!!
All I can say about life is, Oh God, enjoy it! Bob Newhart (1929 - ) The pursuit of happiness is a most ridiculous phrase; if you pursue happiness you'll never find it. C. P. Snow (1905 - 1980)
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Castle in the Jungle
On my vacation back home in Mexico we got the chance to go to the Castle of Edward James in Xilitla. The place was like no other I have ever seen. The “house” was built by an English poet Edward James who was born in 1906. After a number of jobs, including poetry; Edward went to Mexico to build his Garden of Eden. He arrived in Xilitla, Mexico in 1945, which is located in la huasteca not to far from my birth place in San Luis. The castle included thirty-six concrete temples and pagodas, including the House. There were also tropical plants; including orchids were 29,000 in total. The castle also included a variety of small homes and pens that held exotic birds and wild animals from all over the world. Massive sculptures and many trails that go throughout the garden still thrive there. As we were going thru the paths there was a small structure that had only windows and stairs to go on top of the roof with a big opening on top. Deer where held there as well as many parrots. The castle was one of the most beautiful structures I have ever seen, I took various photos so you can also see the castle. It was scary once it got dark because it is in the middle of the jungle. I plan to return (maybe next Christmas). Well I hope ya’ll have enjoyed this…..until next time.
“I have seen such beauty as one man has seldom seen; therefore will I be grateful to die in this little room, surrounded by the forests, the great green gloom of trees my only gloom - and the sound, the sound of green. Here amid the warmth of the rain, what might have been is resolved into the tenderness of a tall doom who says: 'You did your best, rest - and after you the bloom of what you loved and planted still will whisper what you mean. And the ghosts of the birds I loved, will attend me each a friend; like them shall I have flown beyond the realm of words. You, through the trees, shall hear them, long after the end calling me beyond the river. For the cries of birds continue, as - defended by the coretege of their wings - my soul among strange silences yet sings.” -Edward James, Poet 1907 - 1984
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
School at Night
This semester half of my classes are at night from 7pm to 10pm. This is the first semester I have had classes this late and it is like a different university. It pretty hard to explain but there are more people and the parking is crazy. The first day I had my late class, I parked close to the street. That really sucked, especially in the cold. Then I couldn’t find my car but I’m kind of use to that, because it happens to me every time I go to Wal-Mart. Parking is the worst, and I think most of you will agree with me. Even though it’s a big parking lot, students don’t fit. I doubt I’m the only one…lol. But other than the parking I’m bummed because the café and bookstore are closed. So there is no decent food at night (until I get home and cook). Ladies it’s tough going to school making dinner (before or after) in a hurry while taking care of the family. Some of the events happening around the university are movie screenings. One of them is The Great Debaters with Denzel Washington. Here are the details and location:
The Great Debaters Film Screening Feb. 7, 7 p.m., Student Services Building Lecture Hall University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058
I have not seen the movie myself so I wouldn’t be able to tell you how it is, but it does look good. Here are some reviews from yahoo.com: Both critics and yahoo users give it a B and some an A. So it won’t hurt to check it out.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Welcome Back
Hey students! Welcome back. Aren’t ya’ll excited to be back to school! The winter break was fun. I went to Mexico with my family, and we went out a lot; I think I gained four or five pounds from eating so much. The places we visited were beautiful; hopefully I’ll get a chance to return this December. School (so far) has been going okay. If everything goes as planned, I should be graduating this December. I really want to finish my Bachelors and go to graduate school somewhere outside of Houston. I am also considering joining some clubs or student organizations; I think it could be beneficial to my career and graduate application. I already have tons of homework and it’s the third week of school. I am looking forward to the spring and summer (not much of a winter person). In March, UHCL is having a chili cook off— I love chili so I will probably be there. Speaking of chili, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo should be starting up soon, they have excellent food. I encourage anyone to go.
“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” - Abraham Lincoln(1809 - 1865) “All the things I really like are either immoral, illegal or fattening.” - Alexander Woollcott
Monday, December 8, 2008
Last Week
Hey students this is the last week—what a relief. I know many of ya’ll (like I) have been staying up really late to finish papers and study for finals. I am done with my classes, and I’m very happy. Today the bookstore started buying back textbooks. I sold mine in and got a lot of money back. I highly suggest selling your textbooks as soon as possible. Some textbooks can’t be sold back because they have either been discontinued or the university has upgraded to a newer edition. I think the bookstore was also giving out free popcorn. Today the scholastic books are on sale. You will see them as soon as you walk into the Bayou Building. They have a lot of children books, teen books and cooking books. A few of the crafting books are pretty interesting. For the winter break, I will be going to Mexico to see my family. I like going; I especially like going because of the food. Every time I go I gain like five pounds in two weeks. We usually go see multiple cities and swim in the rivers, and of course take part in the Christmas celebrations. I will post some pictures of my trip when I come back. I hope to see all of ya’ll around.
"I once wanted to become an atheist, but I gave up -- they have no holidays". -Henny Youngman
Have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
One More Week!
Hey students! One more week!!! I’m excited too, but under a lot of pressure from homework and studying. All this week I will be getting my stuff together. I know school right now can be tough on everyone. It can seem like way too much work, but don’t lose hope. If you haven’t noticed yet, there is an art sale in the Bayou Building. They have a lot of cool stuff hand-made by students (mainly pottery pieces and a few illustrations). I really liked this yellow painting, it was quite interesting. Registration is still open until January sixteenth, and there is still time for you to register for classes. However, I’m not sure how many of them will still be open to register for. If you have not noticed by now, there are a lot of art exhibits around the Bayou Building (on all floors of the building). I think most of you agree with me that we need more options for food at the university. I’m tired of Quizno’s, and I don’t want to go off campus to eat somewhere when I have to go to class right after.
There are still some things going on at the university. Here is a brief update of what’s happening:
Career Exploration Workshop Dec. 5, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and Dec. 12, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Bayou Building
Seminar for Educators of Gifted Students Dec. 6, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Arbor Building, Room 176
Hey students, Thanksgiving week was crazy. It was impossible to get any work done with all the grocery shopping, cooking and shopping. I went shopping on Black Friday, it was wild. I got up at 3 a.m. to go to Kohl’s because there was a vacuum cleaner that was on sale as well as some other things that were pretty cheap. Then at 6 a.m., I headed to the outlets. It was a long drive, and in the end, I really don’t think it was worth it. I did buy a few things but nothing too cheap. As you can tell, I did not have much time to study. I hope some of you got good deals on Black Friday. It was very packed everywhere we went and some things where not worth the wait in line or getting up in the morning that early. School is almost over, I’m very excited about that, but also means a whole lot of school work. Well I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. I am still trying to get back to normal.
"If you have only two pennies left in the world, with the first penny, you should buy rice to feed your family. With the second penny, say the wise Japanese, you should buy a lily. The Japanese understand the importance of dreaming..." -Japanese Proverb, from "Lilies" Words and Music: Annie Walker, October, 1999
"Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us." -Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Thanksgiving
Hey everyone, I have been running around getting ready for the holidays. With all the grocery and Christmas shopping, the only thing that is kind of in the way is school. Three more weeks to go!!! I know it is tough trying to do a million and one things in a short amount of time. I have to write so many papers next week when I should be celebrating thanksgiving. It looks like I’m going to need a vacation after my week off (lol). I heard about the university election and the possibility of tuition fees rising. I hope a lot of students voted against the measure. Like university and life expenses aren’t already expensive enough. With the economy like it is, I just don’t know who would want to support such a move (among students). Early registration has begun, I hope you register early; it is first come first serve. Last semester I was unable to register for a couple of classes because I waited too long. Well, I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving, and eats a lot. “Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence.” -Erma Bombeck
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Veterans Day Ceremony and Shopping
Hey students it has been an eventful week, it was Veterans Day on the eleventh. That get-together in the Garden Room was the Veterans Day Remembrance ceremony. They had free hot dogs and popcorn (sorry for you who missed it). As you may have noticed, in front of the bookstore was the “fall sale” (mainly for women). They have a lot of nice jewelry, purses, candles and snacks. I noticed a lot of holiday ornaments for Christmas and Thanksgiving. I think it’s pretty cool they have stuff like this for those who like to shop for Christmas presents early. I try to do my shopping early too; I don’t like the lines at the department stores when the holidays are near. If I wait too long, I can’t find it in a size or color I like and shopping early avoids all that. Early registration started already; I actually still need to register for my classes because they go quick.
These are the next two events happening at UHCL: Lucia y Valdemar Gitanerias Flamenco Concert Nov. 14, 8 p.m., Bayou Theater University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058 Lucia Rodriguez-Sanchez and Valdemar Phoenix have been performing together with their group Gitanerías Flamenco since 1983. For this performance, the group will feature the world renowned flamenco performer, choreographer, and teacher, Teo Morca. For more information, call the Office of Student Life, 281-283-2560.
Film and Speaker Series Event Nov. 15, 7 p.m., Student Services and Classroom Building, Lecture Hall University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058 UH-Clear Lake Professor of Literature Craig White will speak following a screening of “The Dark Knight.” Admission is $3.75. For more information, contact the Office of Student Life, 281-283-2560, or e-mail studentlife@uhcl.edu.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Veterans Day
Hello again, Halloween is over it is time for my favorite holiday “THANKGIVING”. We also made history by voting for our first African American president. I am very proud of this (and him); I was a little teary eye when he was giving his acceptance speech. I think there will be change with him. Today has been a mixed feelings day for some. I realize everyone voted for their preferred candidate. I however respect people’s choices and of course everyone has their own voice. I however, don’t think it is appropriate for people to say negative and inappropriate things about the country we live in and our soon-to-be president. I think those thoughts need to be kept to one’s self. I hope everyone will be able to respect our country’s choice. Okay let’s get away from politics. School is almost over; I am really looking forward that week off. Veteran’s Day is on the 11th of this month, it’s an important holyday for me and my love. That is when we think about our past and hope all my friends who are in Iraq or on post are doing okay. For the one’s we never got a chance to meet but are gone now, I salute you. Happy Veterans Day!!!
“I dream of giving birth to a child who will ask, ‘Mother, what was war?’ “ -Eve Merriam “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” -Maya Angelou
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Happy Halloween!
Hey readers! Halloween is coming up soon; everyone be safe and take care of the “trick-‘o -treaters”. According to Gaelic culture, Halloween is when the dead cause mischief to the living by spreading sickness and killing crops. Many countries celebrate Halloween or something similar to that, and each have their own way of celebrating it. Mexico has its own type of “Halloween”. It celebrated as a remembrance for dead loved ones. It is called “dia de los muertos” or day of the dead. The tradition involves visiting the tombs of deceased friends and relatives and bringing them their favorite item or food. It is celebrated on the first and second of November. The tradition dates back thousands of years, when the festival was dedicated to Mictecacihuatl— the “queen of the dead” in Aztec mythology. I just thought to give you a little background information you may not know. A lot of stuff has been going on in the news lately, and pretty much all of it seems bad. I hope thing get better for us. We only have three more weeks before Thanksgiving break. I am ready to eat some turkey. School has been getting tough for me; it has probably been the same for you too. Well I counted and there are only six more weeks until school is out. Good luck on your mid terms.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Open House
Hello again students of UHCL, this is a reminder that next weekend is open house. I mentioned it in my previous entry. At Open House the university will have admissions counseling, program advisors, and everything you need to get you enrolled for next semester. Advisors will also be available to answer questions for international students. It is all in one place, so you can get everything done. Starting next Tuesday, books will be for sale at the Bayou Building. Last time they had a very good selection, for children and teens. They also had a nice selection of books for adults, and some great cookbooks for all you chefs out there. The prices were not that bad, they were actually quite affordable. I’m pretty sure the sale will run for the rest of that week. Spirit week is October 24-30. On the 27th, you can get a free shirt when you wear green and blue. On the 29th, it is competition day against the faculty. Nintendo Wii tournaments and miniature golf will be the battlefield. On October 30th, bring canned goods and get a go green grocery bag. I hope everyone has a good weekend. School is almost over, especially when you consider we have most of the thanksgiving week off.
“At the age of six I wanted to be a cook. At seven I wanted to be Napoleon. And my ambition has been growing steadily ever since.” -Salvador Dali
"You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." -Henry Ford
My baby fishy
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Random Thoughts
Today I passed by the gas station and gas prices are going down, it was 2.84. I was very surprised, I’m glad that at least gas prices are going down. I am waiting for grocery prices to do the same. For those of you who lost their homes or lost furniture, I know some great places where you can get stuff cheap. My parents own a resale shop in Baytown, and sell a lot of furniture in good condition. Resale shops are good places to look since you are able to get more for your money. I am still doing homework, seems like every day there is homework. I hope those that have papers to write and have problems are going to the writing center. They really help you out. I am ready to graduate; I assume most of you are too. We will get there, sooner or later. The university will hold an open house on Saturday the 25th of this month. The hours will be from 9am to 1pm. I hope a lot of you will show up. I will be there with the international advisers. Another thing —the last day to drop is October 27th. So if you need to drop your class you need to do it soon. Well, until next time… "A great marriage is not when the 'perfect couple' comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences." -Dave Meurer, "Daze of Our Wives"
"Always get married early in the morning. That way, if it doesn't work out, you haven't wasted a whole day." -Mickey Rooney (1920 - )
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Holidays
Hello students, how have class been going? Classes for me have been difficult due to everything that has happened, and I’m sure I’m not the only one. Catching up with all the days missed has been terrible. Homework seems to be piling up with no end. So yes, I am ready for the semester to be over. I am glad the holidays are coming soon. Especially thanksgiving, the food is very good. For this year’s Halloween, I am giving out candy to the kids in my neighborhood. I went to Michaels for decoctions and found some neat stuff. A lot of the stuff they sell you can make at home yourself. Go to some web sites like Martha Stewart’s and you’ll be able to find good ideas. The picture below is a good example for some decorations. What I am doing this year is buying a couple of pumpkins and the seasonal orange flowers. I hope everyone has a good Halloween and gets good grades in school. I have been getting a lot of work these couple of weeks. I process the mail for the international section and it has been overwhelming. It covers my entire desk to the point where I cannot see the other side. It has been getting better though.
"Most people would rather be certain they're miserable, than risk being happy." -Robert Anthony
“Never allow anyone to rain on your parade and thus cast a pall of gloom and defeat on the entire day. Remember that no talent, no self-denial, no brains, no character, are required to set up in the fault-finding business. Nothing external can have any power over you unless you permit it. Your time is too precious to be sacrificed in wasted days combating the menial forces of hate, jealously, and envy. Guard your fragile life carefully. Only God can shape a flower, but any foolish child can pull it to pieces. ” -Og Mandino
Monday, September 29, 2008
Voice your Opinion
I know many of ya’ll are going to vote in November, it can be difficult to understand what each senator’s promises are. Some do change their mind often about certain things. Do some research; watch the debates and I’m sure you will make a good decision on your vote. This year will be my first time voting. Once you grow up and realize how the economic and government effect you greatly; this is why I am voting this year. I hope things do get better for us. I recently started volunteering in spring 2008 due to a requirement for my course. I do miss it now since my course has finished, but I will begin to volunteer again soon. It is a fulfilling accomplishment that I get nowhere else. If you have thought of volunteering I highly recommend it. You can volunteer pretty much anywhere. Places like the homeless shelter, the United Way and anywhere where help is needed (especially now because of the hurricane). There are a lot of people that need help. You don’t have to give money just your time. There are a few things that are happening at the university. There is open mic poetry on October first. Anyone that wants to say a few of words can.
“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” - Abraham Lincoln (1809 - 1865)
“One's first love is always perfect until one meets one's second love.” - Elizabeth Aston, The Exploits & Adventures of Miss Alethea Darcy, 2005
Wednesday,September 17, 2008
Post-Ike Return
Hey everyone, it has been quite a month. I hope everyone is safe from the hurricane. I have no fence in the back yard and got the usual limbs and trees down. It was really a sight to see, I have never seen anything like this before. I am very sorry for those who have lost their homes and their belongings. I have seen on the news that there were still people missing, I hope everyone is found in good health. I personally believe that it was a little too soon to come back to school; some of my instructors where considerate while others were not. A lot of us still did not have power or access to the internet, making it hard to continue with homework and getting back to a regular schedule. Once everything got back to normal at home then school should have opened up. Worrying about home, children and school is a lot to bear. That is the reason that a lot of students did not show up for class at the start of the week. Home is important; especially for those who lost everything and are beginning to rebuild their lives. Okay enough of that, before I get in trouble. School has been going okay, just a lot of school work. I hope everyone will be able to return to their regular schedule and life.
“Don't waste your life in doubts and fears: spend yourself on the work before you, well assured that the right performance of this hour's duties will be the best preparation for the hours or ages that follow it.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Life is like a library owned by the author. In it are a few books which he wrote himself, but most of them were written for him.” -Harry Emerson Fosdick
Wednesday,September 3, 2008
Career Services
Hey students, today in class we had a speaker that works for Counseling Services here at UHCL. They offer a lot of services, ranging from personal counseling to career workshops. The part that I found very interesting is that they offer personal counseling for students. They have therapy groups for problems such as anxiety, self esteem, depression, parenting and academic-related issues. You can check out their outreach program and find dates for their events here. Career Services can help you build a resume and find a job. This is especially good for graduating students that are ready to enter the workplace but do not know where to begin. Here are the career workshops and job fairs they are offering this semester:
Gulf Coast Job Fair
Fall Teacher Job Fair
Wed, September 24, 2008
11:00am-4pm
Thursday November 6, 2008
12:30pm-2:30pm
I think it is a great service for all students. It can be difficult to find that dream job you desire; especially after all the years you put in school. For more info about Career Services go to: www.uhcl.edu/careerservices. They are located on the third floor of the student services building. Counseling Services is also a good resource for students that are juggling a lot. It can become stressful and unfortunately it is sometimes the reason why people don’t continue their education. I personally feel burnt out; I have not stopped school since 2006. I have taken classes every semester including summer (as well as May minis and holiday classes). So I feel ya and hang in there, you’ll survive.
"I decided that it was not wisdom that enabled [poets] to write their poetry, but a kind of instinct or inspiration, such as you find in seers and prophets who deliver all their sublime messages without knowing in the least what they mean." -Socrates (469 BC - 399 BC), In "Apology," sct. 21, by Plato.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Text Books
Well hello again, it’s a new semester now. Today I called about three or four places because I was looking for a textbook. The bookstore ran out and is not going to have it within the next two days so that sucks. Luckily a co-worker of mine suggested looking online. I did and found this web site called Questia, it has the whole book online. You can see it for free and they have tons of other textbooks for you to view. It is kind of ridiculous how expensive these books are. Like students don’t have plenty of expenses as it is. What I do suggest the university do is have a website for textbooks on sale. Students that want to sell their textbooks could post them on a website, kind of like craigslist. Plus with easy access it would help students save money because they would buy books at a lower price. Yeah there are websites like Amazon, but it takes forever to get them through the mail. Especially when you need them by the next day ; ) (yeah like me). That also reminds me I need to get my parking permit. If you don’t have it, you need to get it because the police are quick to give you a ticket. They’re pretty cool though, I’ve met some of them.
"Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory." -Albert Schweitzer (1875 - 1965) "Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why." -Eddie Cantor (1892 - 1964) "Happiness: a good bank account, a good cook and a good digestion." -Jean Jacques Rousseau (1712 - 1778)
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Work
Well I am writing from bed right know, I have not been feeling well. I even missed a week of work; luckily it is during the week before school. The people that I work for are great and understanding. This week has been good; I was able to unwind and rest a lot. Starting Monday, it’s going to be a different story. I am taking four classes; one of them is photography. I think, and hope, it will be a fun class. I have had some surprises in the past, so hopefully this will turn out okay. Students if you are looking for a part time job UHCL has posting of open positions. Even if you are on financial aid, the work study program is available. Work study allows you to work twenty hours per week. I know it can get tough to have a job while attending school. Think of it like this: right know you are going to suffer, but after all the sacrifice and the struggle, better things lie ahead to look forward to. If you give up in school right know, you will be in the same place ten years from now. I would love to have a big house, a black range rover and an English bulldog; but those things don’t come cheap. I know I will have them later on (and more). I will also make a better life for my children — which is the most important thing to me (and I hope also for you). DO NOT GIVE UP!!! YOU ARE ALMOST THERE.
"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." -Thomas A. Edison
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
For the Ladies...
Hello readers, summer classes are over this week (for some it was last week). Yep I am glad that they are over. Hopefully everyone made good grades. Fall classes begin on the 25th of this month. Last week I received an email telling me that one of the classes I had signed up for was cancelled. Now I have to choose another class to replace that one. Moms I know ya’ll are excited, kids are going back to school and so are you. My plan to get ready for this long school semester is to go shopping, get my nails done, and maybe get a massage and facial. I know once school starts I won’t have time to do any of this stuff. Here are some time saving tips for women to get by during the long schooldays.
Personalize a palette. Have the colors you love and colors that would almost go with anything.
Get a good hair cut where not too much upkeep is needed. Especially for busy men and women.
Focus on accessories (like earrings)
Use mascara— if you have only time to do one thing to pretty yourself up, this is it.
Sorry men I will write some ideas for you next week, but yes ladies those where just some tips on how to stay looking nice even if you are running around doing chores and duties.
"I would rather spend an hour among the notorious than two minutes with the dull." -Stephanie Barron, Jane and the Unpleasantness at Scargrave Manor, 1996
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Some Advice
Hey students of UHCL, I hope everyone is enjoying their summer vacation or summer classes. I am ready for fall to get here. Summer has been pretty crazy and fast. A lot of stuff has been going on at school. For international students check-in has begun. The place to check in is at the Bayou Building in the Garden Room, Monday to Wednesday from 10am through 2pm. The Garden Room is located on the first floor of the Bayou Building. Also it is time to sign up for classes if you haven’t done so already. UHCL does offer some clubs and extra curriculum activities for students and the beginning of the fall semester is the best time to sign up for them. Some of these clubs are open to all students, while others are major-specific. I will keep you updated when signups will occur. Here are some of the organizations available for students:
Business Organizations
Education Organizations
Honor Societies Organizations
Human Science & Humanities Organizations
Intercultural and International Organizations
Religious Organizations
Science and Computer Engineering Organizations
Special Interest Organizations
You can go online to UHCL website and go to quick link on the main page and then student organizations. The page has changed (I think it looks better and less confusing). Well I have to go and finish some homework (wooho!!!). I’ll talk to ya’ll later.
"Do what you feel in your heart to be right - for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't." -Eleanor Roosevelt (1884 - 1962)
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
A Little Tip
Hey students of UHCL, how was everyone’s weekend? Nothing fun happened for me, I had homework — so that was my weekend. Next weekend the movie Step Brothers comes out, so I will go watch that. Summer two sessions have been going good, better than summer one. If you ever have any questions or problems with anything dealing with school, I recommend talking to the Dean of Students. The office is located in the SS building on the first floor. On a side note, since the weather has been pretty ugly, you may want to find out if the university is still open. You can go online and on the main page there will be a notice on the left hand side. Also, online there is an event calendar that lets you know what is going on in or around school. There are going to be art shows, kid’s activities and much more. In case you haven’t noticed UHCL offers student and faculty the Fitness Zone (at no charge for students). As I have mentioned before the writing center and math center offers help to students. I haven’t been in the math center due to my major. I practically live in the writing center and they’re great. They really have helped me with my essays. You have to call and make an appointment, but you can also ask if they have any tutors available on the spot.
Be careful during hurricane season, especially students driving into town.
“I think education is power. I think that being able to communicate with people is power. One of my main goals on the planet is to encourage people to empower themselves.” - Oprah Winfrey (American actress and television talk show host)
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Weekend, Work, and Some Advice
Hello again, I hope everyone that took summer 1 made good grades. It has really been an interesting summer. I finally got to get away for only a day. It’s okay because I had fun. My family and I ended up going to six flags Over Texas. I really recommend riding Mr. Freeze, it’s very fast, and most of the ride your not touching the seat.
Yesterday if you where on campus around lunch time, you might have notice that the power went out. While I was at work, everyone was waiting for the power to shut down. It took more then expected so I decided to go to the vending machine. Right as I was about to put my last quarter the lights went out. Yeah!! That sucked. I never got my strawberry drink.
I do have to write some school material so here it goes. If you have not yet registered for the fall semester, you really need to because those classes are going quick. Hopefully all of you have. Another thing it’s never too late to write those essays for a scholarship. The scholarship applications usually open up in February. There are numerous online websites that you can apply for scholarships. If you go to the UHCL web site and click the financial aid link, there is some more scholarship information. Hey it’s free money! Additionally, if you are not to sure about your major anymore, stop by the admissions office or the offices of your prospective major and ask for more information (Recently I have noticed some new majors come up that I had not seen before). These offices are usually located at every end of the bayou building. Until next time, this is Karla signing out.
Here is my favorite quote since I can remember:
“If you have made mistakes, even serious ones, there is always another chance for you. What you call failure is not the falling down, but the staying down.” - Mary Pickford 1893-1979 American Actress
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Hello students of UHCL!
I would like to welcome you to my UHCL blog. As a student, I would like to express my thoughts and feelings towards certain aspects of what the university has to offer. As well as what students go through every day. For those who are taking summer classes— like me, I would like to say good luck on your classes because I know it is a lot of hard work. I am enrolled in summer classes and (sure enough) they are kicking my butt. It really does not give me as much time to spend with my family and take those summer vacations we all (especially with children) like to take during summer break.
Today is another day of class and I still have not finished reading my assignment for the class that begins — oh, in a couple of hours. I also have a paper that I need to work on in order to have a mini-vacation out of town this weekend. I will finish the paper by Friday and submit it that same day. Unfortunately the writing center is not open on Friday or Saturday. They are thankfully open on Sunday from 12 to 4pm for those last minute people like me. I also have midterms today and I am certainly not the only one. I hope all goes well for everyone on their test because one day (soon) we would like to graduate or move on.
I will let you know a little about myself, I am majoring in social work and planning to get my masters. Hopefully one day I would like to work for the government, specifically the U.S. Army. I am also considering working internationally as a social worker. I have very liberal views, but pretty much go with the flow. I will continue to express what is going on around student life. We often take on many roles and become overwhelmed with so much that it can eventually make us lose track of what we are. Good luck to everyone on their tests and papers. See you later.
“Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” - Harriet Beecher Stowe, writer
Hello students,
Hello again students;
Hey everyone! Five more weeks to go! This is the time we have the most work on our plate. I have an unbelievable amount of papers due and oddly, they are all due around the same time. I bet most of ya’ll are dealing with the same thing. Okay, for the past month I have been trying to lose weight. I am staying away from fast food and eating less. I found this 
Welcome back from spring break. I hope everyone had a good vacation. Mine was okay; I went camping for about three days. Let me just leave it at that okay! I was able to get some school work done, and I hope I wasn’t the only one. As of this week I have so much stuff to do for school— papers, papers, and more papers. I know some of you have a hobby or something you do to get your mind off of school— for me it is gardening. I planted some tomatoes, jalapenos, zucchinis, and onions. They are growing perfectly! Gardening is my stress reliever. Let me know what yours is. Some people watch TV while others take walks to relax themselves from work or school. I think it is important to wind down. Since school started, I have not have time to paint which I miss so much. If you were not able to escape the Houston area for spring break, here are some ideas that are close to home.
Hey students! Classes have been going okay for me, we are almost done. I wanted to talk about all those warnings from the police at UHCL and the school newspaper is talking about. Right know the situation in Mexico is kind of difficult. Since we have a big Hispanic population here in Texas many of us still visit Mexico because we have family there. I went this past Christmas even though gang related violence was going on. In remember driving back, about an hour away from the border (still in Mexico) there was a sign saying that Mexico should bring back the death penalty. Mexico has not executed anyone since 1937. With the increase in gangs and drug trafficking, Mexican citizens have had enough. The crime has affected citizens and business owners alike. Violence has also spilled into U.S. border towns. If any student is thinking of going to Mexico this spring break be careful and try to drive in the daytime as much as possible. 
Let me start of by saying that it is a shame that someone was assaulted on campus this week. I hope the UHCL employee is okay. I think about that a lot, especially when I leave class around 10pm. I always try to walk with someone to the parking lot, because you never know what is going to happen. Especially now since the economy has gone down the drain. It seems that a lot more violent acts like this are happening everywhere. Students, if you can, try to walk with a classmate to your car—especially at night. There aren’t a lot of people out there and those emergency things where you can call for help are very far. You need to be a marathon runner to reach one of those (lol). By the time you make it to one you might as well have run into the building. I’m not trying to insult the police; they are very good at their job. I see them patrolling around campus and they do a good job for the most part, except when they give me tickets for my parking pass. I plan to get a handgun license and I am a big supporter of my first amendment rights. To each his own preferred method of safety. There are actually many a few alternatives to guns, such as a tasers, pepper spray (which I see many girls carry on their key chain), and stun guns. Every time I think of a stun gun I get flashbacks of, To Catch a Predator, where predators who solicit underage kids online are set up in a sting operation and then tasered by the police when they would try to flee. Alright students stay safe and find a walking buddy.
Hey students! Two more weeks till spring break; I’m definitely looking forward to that. There are many things one can do while on spring break. Hopefully I get a chance to go somewhere. Kids will be out of school too, so if you can, plan a small and close trip (anywhere in Texas). There is a 
We are in week 5 of the semester, once you are close to graduation it becomes a countdown. School work has been crazy but it’s going well. Well scholarships are now available and should be up until the end of this month. I had been having trouble with Stars program that is used for the scholarships. There are thousands and maybe millions of dollars unclaimed for scholarships every year. A lot of students don’t know where to find them, but the best and easiest way is online. Most of them require you to have a good GPA and some also entail writing an essay on what you plan to do in life once you finish graduation. It’s not that bad, we should be use to ten-page papers. Okay I have a test in a couple of hours and have not had a chance to study. I still have to make dinner in a little while. Hopefully this test won’t be bad. Lately, the weather has been ugly; it has been raining almost all week. It has stopped all my outdoor activities; I have not been able to garden. Spring break is in three weeks…yes! I’m definitely doing something and going somewhere. Laters! Keep up the hard work!!!!!!!!!!
Hey students! Welcome back. Aren’t ya’ll excited to be back to school! The winter break was fun. I went to Mexico with my family, and we went out a lot; I think I gained four or five pounds from eating so much. The places we visited were beautiful; hopefully I’ll get a chance to return this December. School (so far) has been going okay. If everything goes as planned, I should be graduating this December. I really want to finish my Bachelors and go to graduate school somewhere outside of Houston. I am also considering joining some clubs or student organizations; I think it could be beneficial to my career and graduate application. I already have tons of homework and it’s the third week of school. I am looking forward to the spring and summer (not much of a winter person). In March, UHCL is having a chili cook off— I love chili so I will probably be there. Speaking of chili, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo should be starting up soon, they have excellent food. I encourage anyone to go.
Hey everyone, I have been running around getting ready for the holidays. With all the grocery and Christmas shopping, the only thing that is kind of in the way is school. Three more weeks to go!!! I know it is tough trying to do a million and one things in a short amount of time. I have to write so many papers next week when I should be celebrating thanksgiving. It looks like I’m going to need a vacation after my week off (lol). I heard about the university election and the possibility of tuition fees rising. I hope a lot of students voted against the measure. Like university and life expenses aren’t already expensive enough. With the economy like it is, I just don’t know who would want to support such a move (among students). Early registration has begun, I hope you register early; it is first come first serve. Last semester I was unable to register for a couple of classes because I waited too long. Well, I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving, and eats a lot.
Hello again, Halloween is over it is time for my favorite holiday “THANKGIVING”. We also made history by voting for our first African American president. I am very proud of this (and him); I was a little teary eye when he was giving his acceptance speech. I think there will be change with him. Today has been a mixed feelings day for some. I realize everyone voted for their preferred candidate. I however respect people’s choices and of course everyone has their own voice. I however, don’t think it is appropriate for people to say negative and inappropriate things about the country we live in and our soon-to-be president. I think those thoughts need to be kept to one’s self. I hope everyone will be able to respect our country’s choice. Okay let’s get away from politics. School is almost over; I am really looking forward that week off. Veteran’s Day is on the 11th of this month, it’s an important holyday for me and my love. That is when we think about our past and hope all my friends who are in Iraq or on post are doing okay. For the one’s we never got a chance to meet but are gone now, I salute you. Happy Veterans Day!!! 
Hey readers! Halloween is coming up soon; everyone be safe and take care of the “trick-‘o -treaters”. According to Gaelic culture, Halloween is when the dead cause mischief to the living by spreading sickness and killing crops. Many countries celebrate Halloween or something similar to that, and each have their own way of celebrating it. Mexico has its own type of “Halloween”. It celebrated as a remembrance for dead loved ones. It is called “dia de los muertos” or day of the dead. The tradition involves visiting the tombs of deceased friends and relatives and bringing them their favorite item or food. It is celebrated on the first and second of November. The tradition dates back thousands of years, when the festival was dedicated to Mictecacihuatl— the “queen of the dead” in Aztec mythology. I just thought to give you a little background information you may not know. 
I know many of ya’ll are going to vote in November, it can be difficult to understand what each senator’s promises are. Some do change their mind often about certain things. Do some research; watch the debates and I’m sure you will make a good decision on your vote. This year will be my first time voting. Once you grow up and realize how the economic and government effect you greatly; this is why I am voting this year. I hope things do get better for us. I recently started volunteering in spring 2008 due to a requirement for my course. I do miss it now since my course has finished, but I will begin to volunteer again soon. It is a fulfilling accomplishment that I get nowhere else. If you have thought of volunteering I highly recommend it. You can volunteer pretty much anywhere. Places like the homeless shelter, the United Way and anywhere where help is needed (especially now because of the hurricane). There are a lot of people that need help. You don’t have to give money just your time. There are a few things that are happening at the university. There is open mic poetry on October first. Anyone that wants to say a few of words can.
Hey everyone, it has been quite a month. I hope everyone is safe from the hurricane. I have no fence in the back yard and got the usual limbs and trees down. It was really a sight to see, I have never seen anything like this before. I am very sorry for those who have lost their homes and their belongings. I have seen on the news that there were still people missing, I hope everyone is found in good health. I personally believe that it was a little too soon to come back to school; some of my instructors where considerate while others were not. A lot of us still did not have power or access to the internet, making it hard to continue with homework and getting back to a regular schedule. Once everything got back to normal at home then school should have opened up. Worrying about home, children and school is a lot to bear. That is the reason that a lot of students did not show up for class at the start of the week. Home is important; especially for those who lost everything and are beginning to rebuild their lives. Okay enough of that, before I get in trouble. School has been going okay, just a lot of school work. I hope everyone will be able to return to their regular schedule and life. 
Hey students, today in class we had a speaker that works for Counseling Services here at UHCL. They offer a lot of services, ranging from personal counseling to career workshops. The part that I found very interesting is that they offer personal counseling for students. They have therapy groups for problems such as anxiety, self esteem, depression, parenting and academic-related issues. You can check out their outreach program and find dates for their events 
Well hello again, it’s a new semester now. Today I called about three or four places because I was looking for a textbook. The bookstore ran out and is not going to have it within the next two days so that sucks. Luckily a co-worker of mine suggested looking online. I did and found this web site called 
Well I am writing from bed right know, I have not been feeling well. I even missed a week of work; luckily it is during the week before school. The people that I work for are great and understanding. This week has been good; I was able to unwind and rest a lot. Starting Monday, it’s going to be a different story. I am taking four classes; one of them is photography. I think, and hope, it will be a fun class. I have had some surprises in the past, so hopefully this will turn out okay.
Hey students of UHCL, I hope everyone is enjoying their summer vacation or summer classes. I am ready for fall to get here. Summer has been pretty crazy and fast. A lot of stuff has been going on at school. For international students check-in has begun. The place to check in is at the Bayou Building in the Garden Room, Monday to Wednesday from 10am through 2pm. The Garden Room is located on the first floor of the Bayou Building. Also it is time to sign up for classes if you haven’t done so already. UHCL does offer some clubs and extra curriculum activities for students and the beginning of the fall semester is the best time to sign up for them. Some of these clubs are open to all students, while others are major-specific. I will keep you updated when signups will occur. Here are some of the organizations available for students:
Hello again, I hope everyone that took summer 1 made good grades. It has really been an interesting summer. I finally got to get away for only a day. It’s okay because I had fun. My family and I ended up going to six flags Over Texas. I really recommend riding Mr. Freeze, it’s very fast, and most of the ride your not touching the seat.
I would like to welcome you to my UHCL blog. As a student, I would like to express my thoughts and feelings towards certain aspects of what the university has to offer. As well as what students go through every day. For those who are taking summer classes— like me, I would like to say good luck on your classes because I know it is a lot of hard work. I am enrolled in summer classes and (sure enough) they are kicking my butt. It really does not give me as much time to spend with my family and take those summer vacations we all (especially with children) like to take during summer break. 
