Wednesday, December 31, 2008

2009

It's very odd to think that tommorw will start my year of graduation! May will be here before you know it. I think I'm spoiling a surprise here but I really don't care: I found out about 2 weeks ago that after the Senior Class Council and I put some hard work into a proposal, the President and Administration have agreed to hold Commencement at the Times Union Center in Albany! I'm so excited to be part of the first class to do this! If I'm lucky, I'm hoping to perhaps be selected as the Senior to give a speech to the class.

I hope everyone had a great holidy. As you have clearly all read, Finals were crazy up at school. I'm still waiting on one more grade to be finalized, but I'm pretty confident in the class, so it looks like the semester went great!

A couple quick notifications about my life: I was cast in Siena's Stage III (the drama club) production of Doubt to be performed in March. I was cast as the only male in the play, and you may have seen commercials since it was just released in theaters with Meryl Streep and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. I'm excited to see how that goes.

And finally, (I'm not sure if I've blogged about this yet, but...) in 2 and a half weeks, I will traveling to Washington DC to attend 4 days worth of Inauguration ceremonies. I will see Barack Obama sworn in, attend some conferences and panels with reporters and White House officials, witness the parade, as well as attend the Presedential Inaugural black tie Gala the night of the 2oth. I am SOOO excited to have this opportunity. Best of all, Siena sponosored almost the entire cost of the program. I promise I will be blogging about this experience while I am there and posting them when I have a chance.

Anyways that's all for now! Happy New Year and I hope things go well with your acceptance letters. Go Saints (they beat Holy Cross last night!)!!

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

VACATION!!

Hey everyone!,

Hope you'll all in good spirits for the holidays. Christmas is just a few days away of course, hope all the shopping is done, god knows mine has yet to start. I have one more day though eh? I haven't been on in a while and a lot has happened since. As most of my fellow bloggers may have already told you, our final exams were CANCELLED! YAY!...well more like postponed, but it was exciting at the time. The only thing that was sort of dissappointing was that I studied for days to take my bio test and when the day came, we were out of power, the campus was in shambles and people were being evacuated from the campus. All of my classes with the exception of my foundations class are holding optional examinations. I'm pleased at the way I ended my first semester at college, especially with all the traveling we did for hockey, getting orientated to the college atmosphere, etc... I plan to take only my bio when I get back to school in hopes of raising my grade. Aside from school vacation is going well. How about yours? I'm kind of bored though. I miss my friends at school, even though I'm hanging out with my friends from home almost everyday. I wish I back, but lets not wish our life away eh? Have a good holiday and a Happy New Year!

Peace, Josh

Friday, December 19, 2008

Minor Change of Plans

As my colleague Greg informed you all, final exams have been 'postponed' instead of 'canceled.' I guess getting out of taking my final exams was too good to be true after all. Fortunately though, I only have to take one final exam upon my return to Siena. Leaving for vacation two days earlier than planned also means I was not able to attend dinner at my professor's house like I had told you about earlier. Sure, that was disappointing, but given the fact that I am on break early, and given that fact that some of my professors chose not to administer a final, I'm not about to complain.

Have a great Holiday everybody!

--Mike DiSiena

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Finals Cancelled?!

Well it has been quite an interesting week! A major snow and ice storm hit upstate/capital region and Siena lost power. Without power, heat, or hot water, administration had no choice but to send us all home….which meant FINALS GOT CANCELLED! That’s like something out of a movie, right?! Anyway, the academic deans did finally make the decision to give professors the option to either waive the final or provide an alternate assignment, however if a student wanted the opportunity to take the final, they created an exam week in January before Spring semester classes start. Its still so weird.
So I’m back home in Westchester now until January 14th and then I leave for the semester in Siena, Italy. I am so excited and I know its going to be an amazing experience.
Definitely stay tuned to my blog!!

Time for bed…back to work tomorrow haha

-Greg

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

So my first final is in an hour, but I had to share the good news: SIENA BEAT MARIST BY 17!!! Just thought you might like to know! :)

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Finally Finals

Hey guys!

So finals start TOMORROW!! Actually that's kind of a lie. I have 2 finals that are take home that I've already looked at. You would think that would be cool, but the professors make those ones a bit harder because you have more time to complete them. I have my Logic final (great class with Josh Alexander!) and my Business to Business Marketing final to do over the next couple days. Here's a sample question from my Logic class final: "What does it mean to say that the validity of an argument does not depend on the actual truth values of the component statements?" Of course, I love this kind of stuff (remember: Philosophy minor, here) but I understand if it looks a bit crazy to you guys. I just started looking at this exam today. It's "Reading Day" which is the day before finals when there are no classes so students can study. Of course, I have yet to study a word and its 3:30. My only sit down final is tomorrow night, though so PLENTY of time (eek!).

Tonight, my Dad is coming up from Hartford, CT to go to the Siena vs. Marist game with me, then I have an indoor soccer game off campus at 10...looks like I'll start studying tomorrow!!

I'm sad to see half of my Senior year come to an end, but I'm excited for the home stretch over the next couple months! This past week I stepped down as President of Student Senate and handed the job over to the newly elected Steve Hannigan, a good friend of mine. I'm excited to see how he does over the next year. I will miss being involved in Student Government, but my time is up. I auditioned for a play here on campus and was cast as the only male in a 4 person show called Doubt (it's a movie coming out next week in theaters). I don't want to watch the movie until after the play next semester. But rehearsals will start in January so I'm excited for that.

Anyways that's my update. Hit me up with any questions! See ya over break!

Dunzoooo!

Hey guys!! Sorry you haven’t heard from me in a while…I have been insanely busy.
(You’re probably reading this saying…Greg says that when he begins every blog post) Haha
Anyways, yesterday was the last day of classes and I feel SO liberated. I had 2 projects that got finalized and handed in, as well as a presentation for another class that went great. Its so unbelievable the semester is over already…it went SOO fast.
Anyways, I had an amazing weekend. On Saturday night was the Albany vs. SUNY Albany men’s basketball game. SUNY is our cross-town rival and Siena students look forward to this exciting game. We play our basketball games in downtown Albany at the Times-Union Arena and it was PACKED. We ended up winning the game…sweeetttt!

Today is reading day and then I have my first 2 finals on Friday…and then 2 on Monday and 1 on Tuesday. I trying to tell myself not to stress about finals and just do the best I can.

I hope everyone’s college search is going well. Hopefully by this time you have all of your applications submitted and are just sitting back and waiting (or waiting by your mailboxes?). If you haven’t already done so, I strongly encourage you to come up and visit Siena when you have some free time!!!

OK….back to studying!
Greg

Friday, December 5, 2008

Now I know many of us have said that the semester has been busy for us in the past, but I have to say, this was the busiest week that I've experienced so far. The semester begins with excitement over returning back to your "Siena home" and the semester ends with excitement over returning to home sweet home.

I still have a few things to square away before my semester will be complete. Aside from finishing papers and taking exams I will have the opportunity to have dinner at one my professor's homes. As I mentioned a while back, I took a class on U.S. National Security post-9/11. The class was considered an "honors class," which means that you need to have a particularly strong academic record in order to be eligible to take the class. Classes like this are often close-knit and relationships develop between students and faculty that might not in a class of greater size (for instance, I usually don't even speak to the people next to me in my economics class). Well, this past class our professor said he would be delighted if everybody could join him for dinner. Needless to say, I'm wondering what kind of cook he is...in any case, I'll let you know.

Take Care,
Mike DiSiena

"There are two ways of getting home; and one of them is to stay there."~G.K. Chesterton

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Home Sweet Home

Hi Everyone,

I have not blogged in a little while. I hope everything is going well with you! I hope you had an excellent thanksgiving.

For me, it was amazing being home with my family and friends. The food was outstanding and it absolutely beat the cafeteria food. I enjoyed all the little luxuries of life. For example, showering with no sandals, a really clean private bathroom, and of course great food. It's the little things in life.

Today is thursday, December 4. I have officially finished my Finance class, Accounting Class and Management. I do not have any more work for those classes until the final! The work is finally complete now it is just time to focus and study so I can do well on my final exams! I go home for Christmas break on December 12! Another semester at Siena is practically complete, I really have no idea where the time goes.

Once I finish my Spring 2009 semester, I am already half way through my career here! That's really depressing haha, I do not know where the time goes but I wish I could slow it down some.

Next semester I am registered for five classes instead of taking six this semester. I am taking Managerial Accounting, Managerial Finance, Astronomy, Philosophy, and Business Stats. My schedule is awesome and I have amazing professors. I have no classes on Friday's and my earliest class starts at 11:30 am. It's funny, I am already excited for next semester and I have not even finished this current semester nor have I even enjoyed my Christmas break. 

Let me know how the end of second quarter is going guys! Any new college information?
Anyone commit to Siena? Fill me in!

Love,

Patrick Creegan

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Turkey Day Break

At last, Sunday has come and Thanksgiving Break has come to an end. I went home last Tuesday afternoon and came back today in the afternoon. Break came just in time, last week, I was sooo ready to go home! I was pretty burnt out from the entire semester and needed a break before I go hardcore for finals!

Being at home was great! I had a lot of fun with family. On Thanksgiving, I had dinner with my immediate family. It was only the four of us, but it was fantastic. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays where everyone makes it a point to be home. Every year it gets increasingly difficult to get the entire family in one place.

I also did a bit of studying while I was at home, but saved all of Friday to hang out with my friends. I got to see one of my good friends from back home, Jen. She goes to the University of Connecticut. I almost went to UConn, but instead decided to go to Siena. It was the best choice I've ever made, and if I could go back in time, I'd make the same choice. However, I still ask about UConn a lot and wonder what it would be like if I went to school there. She's actually a CA at UConn which is a Community Assistant. It's the same as my RA job, so I talk to her a lot about her job and how UConn's Res Life is set up. Below is a picture of a couple of the friends I hung out with on Friday. We went to Gillette's Castle in CT and saw a vegetable cellar, so naturally, we took a picture in front of it.


Now I'm back at school and I've already started doing homework. I'm on duty later tonight, so I wanted to get the bulk of my work done before then. This week is going to be pretty busy for me. I've got a Sociology group project with a 10 page paper, a Histology group presentation on Tuesday, a Spanish group presentation due next monday which needs a full written script and videotaped, and... i have to read a full spanish play by the end of the week. Not to mention my Hisotlogy lab practical is this upcoming Wednesday. Oh! and a Religion paper I have to revise and submit.

Yeah, its a lot of work to get done in a week, but its certainly doable. I just have to crack down and make sure I'm efficient with my time. Finals start Wed the 10th and my two big finals are on that day, so as long as I can make it through the next 10 days, I'll be fine.

:o) I'll keep you folks posted on how all my projects, presentations, and papers go.

until next time,

Indira

Thankful for Thanksgiving Break

It is 10:30 A.M and I, as I have been for the last fours days, am in my pajamas. It's a beautiful thing! Thanksgiving break is great not only for well, Thanksgiving, but also for catching up on all of that neglected schoolwork that has accumulated over the past few hectic weeks of the semester. I am pleased to report that over break I finished a seven page paper on what makes congressmen vote the way they do, and a ten page paper on the connection between love and death in the opera Tristan und Isolde (talk about different topics!). This comes as a relief seeing how both papers are due the week I get back from break and that I hadn't even started working on them before break. There is no way I would have had time to work on these papers if I had gone to class all of last week. So you'll understand why I say I am thankful for Thanksgiving break!

Hope you are all doing well,
Mike DiSiena

Sunday, November 23, 2008

2 Days!

Hey all-

Apologies for my absence this last week or so. Things have been crazy recently! I realized that I never properly introduced myself last blog. My name is Conor Geary. I'm a Senior Marketing and Management major with a Philosophy minor. I'm from East Hartford, CT. I love playing soccer, sleeping late, and of course- long walks on the beach. Now for some updates: I just finished shooting a commercial for one of my classes and I will be spending the rest of today editing it for my project. It looks great! Campus-wide elections were also held over the last couple of days and today we will find out who will be taking over the Class Councils, Senate Executive Board, and the Student Events Board offices. It's a bit bittersweet for me because I've had a great time as Senate President and I'm ready to hand the job over but I will certainly miss it.
Classes are going well. I just found out one of my finals is take home to that made my life. In another class (called QBUS 300- business operations management) we have to meet with a manager from a local company or organization. My group was allowed to study the Albany Medical Center which is awesome. No one in the professor's history has studied the operations of a hospital, so hopefully that goes well.
And then of course there's Thanksgiving. I can't wait to have 5 or 6 days with my friends and family- good food- good drinks- good times. I hope your holiday season goes well.
Men's Basketball is 2-0 with big win over Boise St. and Cornell. Thousands of people head to the Times Union Center which is such a fun time. If you get a chance, I highly recommend checking out a game to see what Siena spirit is all about!!
OK, I'll check back in soon. Time to edit some video and count some votes. GO SAINTS!

Friday, November 21, 2008

The Spring Schedule

Hey everyone...

Hope you are all getting ready for turkey day. I know I'm counting down the days. The semester is coming to an end fast. It's about time to start thinking about finals and getting into classes for next semester. Although it's tempting to relax and have a good time over break, a lot of my time is going to spent with a book cracked open studying. I have three exams the week I come back and finals the week after that. Talk about being burnt out. But first things first, Monday is going to be a big day. I have to sign up for my classes next semester. After taking Biology, Chemistry, Calculus, and Foundations, I've realized how much of a work load the science field requires to be successful and how much harder you have to work compared to high school. I've come to the conclusion that I dislike Biology with a passion, therefore, instead of being a Biochem major I'm looking at majoring in Chemistry. NO BIO!! YAY...I can't wait to get a new schedule although I'm worried that it's going to be pretty awful times for classes since I'm second to last in the sign up order. Schools been hard trying to manage my work load, doing work study, playing hockey, and trying to keep up some type of social life. A good schedule and a good work study job will be key to a successful semester. I want all my same professors again, but I know it probably won't happen. I've grown attached, though I'm sure there are others that are just as good. I hope all goes well. I'll fill you all in as soon as the deed is done...(I'm sure your all on the edge of your seats just as I am. =])

Take it easy....

Josh B

Thankful.

Hi Everyone!

I am very sorry that I have no blogged in these past two weeks. I have just been so busy with paper after paper and presentation after presentation.

This past Wednesday I was the student speaker at an admissions program called Long Island Student Reception. My speech came out quite well and everything went perfect. However more importantly, I had the opportunity of meeting so many great prospective students and family. As I moved from table to table introducing myself, I really felt a sense of community which is so evident here at Siena. I even met three families who read my blogs! (If you guys are reading now, I would really appreciate you leaving a comment with some contact information with your email so we can speak further about Siena!)

The speech went fabulous and the admissions team that went with me were incredible. We all worked the room and heard so many great stories. Your lives are full of excitement and it was a privilege meeting you all. As your high school story comes to an end, you are beginning a new, more exciting chapter in your life. College! And to quote my speech, "It's about a new beginning, a fresh start! It's about advancing education, having fun with new friends and embracing whats different while simultaneously appreciating what you have. It's about finding out who you are and what you really believe in. It's about getting involved and making the most of each new day. As Bob Marley sings, "Rise up this morning. And smile with the rising sun." Welcome to College! The best four years of your life."
I really do hope you call Siena home for the next four years of your life. It has been the best decision of my life, no question.

We are now only 6 days from Thanksgiving! I cannot wait to go home and see my family. We have no class on Wednesday, therefore most of the students are leaving Tuesday afternoon. Not only do I love to eat the amazing home cooked meals (which now come not so frequently anymore) but I love sitting around the table and discussing life with my mom, dad, older brother John and my twin sister, Lindsey. I come from a very small family. Each Thanksgiving, I grow older and more mature and this year I finally understand its true meaning. Of course, Thanksgiving has a different meaning for all of us, but for me its having the chance to be around family that I often take for granted. Home really is where my heart is. I'm thankful for coming home to a warm house full of love and memories and of course with the sweet aroma of fresh cooked foods. I have matured into a fine young man throughout my year and a half here. Siena has instilled so many new values and morals within me and everyday, I live my life by putting what I learned into action.

I am so happy to be home with my immediate family, but I am going to miss my Siena family. For me, that is my roommates and friends, Brian, Greg, David and Chris. My future best men at my wedding. We are our own family and I am so thankful to have them in my life. You guys support me on my good days and bad days, and sometimes my bad days outnumber my good days but you all are always there for me.

So now as I close out my blog,

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! I hope your college home is just as good as mine and I am most certain that you will find success in wherever your life brings you. I also, hope your road leads you to Siena College's Class of 2013.

Love,

Patrick Creegan

As time goes by...

Well, its about time to start gearing up for Thanksgiving break. Come next Tuesday, I'll be home for nearly a week. This year, at Padua Hall, Thanksgiving came a little bit early. Our Hall President decided to hold a dinner for the whole building in the lobby area. There was all the food you would expect for a Thanksgiving dinner (at first mashed potatoes were not included on the menu but public outrage from us students changed that). The food was great and it was nice to spend some time with people who, although they live in the same building as you, you never get much time to talk with.

After Thanksgiving break there are only six more days of classes and then finals (I can't believe it!). This semester, just like every other semester flew by. I remember thinking that High School went by fast, and, it definitely does. But I have to say College goes by just as fast, if not faster. So enjoy the time you have and enjoy your Thanksgiving break!

Until next time,
Mike DiSiena

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Eat your frogs !

So, another busy week here at Siena College. I am leaving Monday afternoon to head home for Thanksgiving break…I can’t wait to see my family and my friends! I haven’t been home in a long time. Siena has such a strong sense of community and my group of friends here are like my family.
It always gets very stressful towards the end of the semester…I feel like I have a project for every class coming due and it takes a lot of planning and level-headedness to not let things hinder your performance or prevent you from getting things done. Time management is a critical skill that is important to focus on developing because without it you will struggle to accomplish tasks and goals and stay ahead. I would like to share with you a few excerpts from an article someone sent me called “Eat That Frog” about time management and procrastination (something we are all guilty of). Here are a few of the main points I found to be very meaningful:

-Frogs are important tasks that we put off for whatever reason…we all have them!

-Action is the key to accomplishment

- If you eat a live frog each morning you will know that you have already experienced the worst thing that will happen to you that day.

-Frogs are the tasks that you know are priorities but that you’ve put on the back burner

-Select your most important challenge-that big old frog-and address it effectively

-Time management is really just taking control of the sequence of events that effect your life.

Siena recognizes that students need to know how to effectively manage their time in order to be successful. Since my freshmen year I have learned a significant amount about prioritizing and organizing my tasks. Professors, peers, career center, student organizations, academic support center, alumni, and a plethora of other resources exist here for you to learn from.

Until next time,
Greg

Monday, November 17, 2008

Fall Fusion 2008: Welcome to the Jungle!

Fall Fusion, its the multicultural show that Siena's Asian Students Association and Black and Latino Student Union put on every Fall. I am usually in at least one or two acts for the show. Typically I dance, either hip-hop or some form of modern Indian dance. I've never formally taken dance lessons before, but it's a lot of fun to put something together with friends.

This year, the theme for the show was Welcome to the Jungle. It took days of prep to decorate the room. We painted animals, made pillars into trees, and made the Maloney Great Room into a full out jungle. The decorations looked amazing.

I was only in one act this year with the Siena College Bhangra team, but it was so much fun! The show was awesome! It took months to prepare, but in the end, it was all completely worth it. Below is a picture of our final pose from the Bhangra Team. I'm all the way on the left. Unfortunately, I'm slightly covered by one of our adoring fans.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Thanksgiving break!!!

How is everyone doing?.....I am soooo stoked for Thanksgiving I can almost taste the tender turkey, the moist stuffing and the sweet apple pie upon my taste buds. Yum! Any home cooked meal at this point will be much appreciated. Don't get me wrong the food at Siena is pretty good. The wrap shop and Sub shop always have some delicious food, but nothing compares to mom's shepards pie or dad's corn chowder. On top of the food I'm ready to go back to be with the family for a week. My dad and I love to hunt so I know for at least two days we will be up to camp with my uncles, trekking the mountain and maybe getting a deer. It will be nice to be able to catch up with old friends as well. I haven't been home in two months with hockey and work and all, so a change of pace should be good for me. As we speak college life is hectic. Finals are approaching. Not a lot of sleep is to be had. With my schedule its been hard to keep up as I've mentioned before, so you can image how much this break is welcomed to me. Today, I actually went to my chemistry professor looking for help. My grades are starting to slide the closer to the end of the semester we get. I was really discouraged that my hard work wasn't paying off, but she managed to raise my spirits, pointed me in a direction for better studying habits and ultimately gave me the boost I needed to get through. If for any reason you have questions or are seeking advise, the professors are awesome at Siena. Even if they don't have office hours that fit your schedule they are willing to meet upon appointment or even sometimes if you simply walk into their office. Most professors are extremely flexible with their hours and are willing to help any time. Hopefully, my professor's boost will get me through till Thanksgiving and finish out strong for the first semester of my freshman year, but lets take things one step at a time eh?

Take it easy,

Josh Baillargeon

Monday, November 10, 2008

Hey everyone!

Sorry I’ve been so busy. Last week was crazy!
Delta Sigma Pi, my business fraternity, co-sponsored the annual Networking and Mentoring night last week. Over 100 alumni and professionals from corporate America were in attendance talking about their professions and giving students information about internship and job opportunities that are available. Siena has an excellent reputation for preparing students to be successful in their future professional endeavors after graduation. A tremendous emphasis is placed on career counseling and preparation: from resume critiquing, industry advice, career fairs, etc. Most students have jobs before they even graduate and basically all students are employed full time within like 6 months of actually graduating. Career placement information is something that is so important to consider when looking at colleges…even though you may think its not important to consider right now because it is too early (FALSE)!

Anyways, anyone out there from Westchester County?!? If so, be sure to attend the student reception this Thursday evening at the Westchester Marriott! Its an excellent opportunity to learn more about Siena, talk to current students, as well as discuss the college search process with other prospective students as well. Oh yea…and yours truly will be the featured speaker ;-) so get excited! You will get to hear from me, first hand, why I chose Siena and why you should too! (PS- if you do attend, don’t be shy! be sure to come talk to me and tell me you read my blog! I will be so excited!)

Hope to see you there,
Greg Papa

Friday, November 7, 2008

Planning Ahead

As I recall, the process for signing up for courses in high school was fairly straightforward. You didn't have too many options (or at least that was my experience). Well, here at Siena it seems like there is an endless list of courses that you can take...anything from a course on the Symphonies of Beethoven, to Greek and Roman Philosophy, to Chemistry in the News. We're at the point in the semester when we start selecting what courses we will take next semester. There are numerous required courses you must take here at Siena, but at the same time, your options can be overwhelming at times.

Don't worry though, Siena assigns you to a faculty member, known as your advisor, who will help you along the way. In fact, Siena requires that you meet with your advisor so that your academic experience goes smoothly. It's hard to say how valuable your advisor can be. I don't know if I told you but I am a political science major and a philosophy major. That means I have to take required courses to earn a major in both categories. Needless to say it can get difficult keeping of track of what you need to take.

In any case, I have met with my advisor and in less than 15 minutes we were able to figure out what I should take for next semester. What a relief!

Until next time,
Mike DiSiena

"An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered; an adventure is an inconvenience rightly considered."~G.K. Chesterton

Thursday, November 6, 2008

SLI Conference

November 7th 2008... yupp, thats the big day!

Its the day of the annual SLI Conference... which stands for the Siena Leadership Institute. Yeah, its kind of a big deal.

I'm actually an SLI Fellow, which means I was nominated for the position, then had to apply for it and be selected. I'm one out of about 12 other fellows who have come together for this one year commitment. We meet once a week for an hour and work on our leadership skills. In the Spring of '08, we went on a weekend retreat where we got to know each other a little better and did teambuilding excersizes. Our big project in the spring was to plan a service project. We went to the Ronald McDonald house and cooked dinner for them. Now, in the Fall of '08, our big project is the conference, which is this Friday!

All of the fellows had to come together to plan this huge event. We were each put in charge of sub-categories and for the past few months, we've been pulling it all together. In order to attend the conference, students must be nominated by Faculty and Staff. This year we had more than 450 student nominees. Of those students, almost 200 of them are planning to attend the conference.

At the conference, there will be a keynote speaker, teambuilding excercises, two sessions (of which there are multiple workshops to choose from) and a closing address given by Fr. Kevin Mullen, the president of Siena College. You also get a certificate of completion for attending the conference. I attended as both a Freshman and a Sophomore, and now I'm hosting it!

Typically, the keynote speaker is at the conference, but this year, our speaker is leaving the day of our conference because he is recieving another award. Therefore, he will be giving his keynote address the night before, Thursday. As a result, the SLI fellows and nominees are invited to hear him speak on Thursday, and then the SLI fellows, both past and present, are invited to breakfast with him on Friday morning, 7:00 am. (yeah, its pretty early) This year, our keynote speaker is Dr. Chris Howard, Vice President for Strategic and leadership Initiatives at the University of Oklahoma. If you've got a spare moment, you should look him up!

But for now, its crunch time! There's plenty to do in order to get ready for the conference! With that being said, I should probably get some work done. I've got to get work done so I can go to bed early tomorrow night, or else getting up early enough to be in business attire for 7:00 am is not going to be an easy task!

Until next time, Indira

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

No Halloween for me!! :(

Hey everyone hows it going?,

I got to tell ya'll, I'm not one that gets into the spirit of Halloween, but in college it is a whole different story. This was the first year since I was about 7 when I was actually counting down the days for the fun holiday. Two weeks ago I was planing on going to get a costume with my buddies, dressing up as one of the six Village People, and having a good time on the town with them. However, as usual, my plans got messed up once again. The weekend before the big holiday, coach tells us that we are going to spend our Halloween weekend on the road in NY and in NJ. I was devastated to say the least! Me and about 25 other guys saw our fun weekend fly out the window. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love the game of hockey, but Halloween in college is a holiday that you never want to miss. Dorm hallways are decorated, candy is being passed out everywhere you go, and some of the the costumes that people are decked out in are AMAZING! :) For the past month its been the only day that the kids on campus have been talking about. It's been on everyones mind since the beginning of school. AND I MISSED IT. I wished I could have given you the details on how great it was, but I guess I'm going to have to wait until next year. We won our games by the way 7 2 and 17 1. Yeah, we kick butt eh?? I played well in the game I was in net for, so that was always good, although I'm still bumbed about what I missed. I hope your Halloween went well. I got to stop thinking about it! :) See yah later....

Peace,

Josh Baillargeon.............

Friday, October 31, 2008

Trick-or-Treat

It was a beautiful day here at Siena. So beautiful that one of my professors let us out of class after about five minutes. The good weather could not have come at a better time for the trick-or-treaters that come to Siena on Halloween. You see, every Halloween that I've been here, Siena has hosted kids around the Albany area for trick-or-treating. Students here at Siena are asked to give some of their time and candy in order to make Halloween a memorable experience for these kids (many of whom, do not live in communities that are safe enough top just go and knock on people's doors). Its great to see all of the costumes, many of which are of characters I don't even recognize any more. In any case, its always a blast!

Stress

Hey ya'll...haven't talked in a while, hope everyhting is going well at home and in school. College has been crazy for me for the past three weeks, its been a struggle to get everything straight, but I've finally caught up on homework, appointments and errands. The past two weekends we were on the road for hockey going to Michigan and then to Pennsylvania. It was a great time, hanging with the guys and of course watching and playing good hockey. The only problem is, it was hard to get my homework done on the road. Now that I finally feel like I'm caught up, I got three exams next week in Calculus, Chemistry and Biology. I thought I would have time to relax this weekend, dress up for Halloween, go out, and have some fun with the friends, you know blow off some steam; however, i just found out a few days ago that we have two games this weekend. One game is in NJ and the other is in NYC. We are going to be gone all weekend again. I'm kind of sad I have to miss such an awesome holiday as well as worried about getting my studying done. Although I'm a little stressed, my weekend could turn for the best. God forbid our starting goalie is out with an injury, I wish him well, but this allows an oppertunity for me to play. I'm excited for todays game and I hope it brightens up my weekend. Only time will tell eh?

See ya next time,

Josh B

Long Island In The House?

Hi Everyone!

Happy Halloween! I've had such a busy week that I don't even have a costume for tonight! Does anyone have any ideas? HaHa, I was thinking about being Dr. Derek Shephard from Grey's Anatomy. Either that or Michael Phelps! HaHa. But I'll take any suggestions that you guys are offering.

So what's new with you? Hows the college search coming along? No one is filling me in yet! What other schools are you looking at? Anything new and exciting in your life? I tell you guys my story so it's only fair that you tell me at least something in return.

I have a question for you guys...Is anyone from Long Island, NY? Siena has a student reception on Long Island where Siena comes to you! It is on November 19 at the Long Island Marriott in Uniondale! You should absolutely register and hear Siena out. Oh and the reason why I mentioned this specific date for Long Islanders is because I am the guest speaker! So come here what Siena is really like from a involved Siena student and meet awesome people along the way.

There is also one in Syracuse, Westchester, Park Ridge New Jersey, and NYC!

Even if you have visited Siena before, come to a reception near you. You can meet all the fabulous admissions representatives and current students who discuss Siena one on one with you!

If your interested in attending, go to http://www.siena.edu/ and click on prospective students and then click on Visit Siena! Scroll down and register! It's really a awesome way to see if Siena is right for you. Whether you've already applied, been accepted or are just considering us, come to the reception.

I really hope to see my fellow Long Islanders on the 19th! Let me know if your attending!!!!

Talk to you guys soon!

Love,

Patrick Creegan

WANTED ASAP: Halloween Costume Idea

So tomorrow is Halloween and I don’t have a costume yet!! Anyone have ideas?!! Every year local families bring their children on campus for trick-or-treating. Its so cute to see them around campus in costumes! A lot of upperclassmen will go into downtown Albany for various Halloween events or haunted houses. Lots of things are going on on-campus also, as always. Siena students love Halloween!

Anyways so I mentioned in a previous post about how I was going to Manhattan last week for my 2nd interview with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). I went last Friday and it went amazing! I had 3 separate interviews with different executives and 45 minutes after I left the office, they
called to make me an offer…SO EXCITING!! For those that are not familiar, PricewaterhouseCoopers is the #1 accounting firm in the world (crazy right!?). The position I got is with the Audit/Assurance division for a summer internship with the potential to continue as a full-time associate after graduation. It is so exciting and comforting to know that I have a job waiting for me =). Siena was instrumental in getting me this position. My first point of contact with PricewaterhouseCoopers was at the career fair last month. I learned that the PwC recruiters come directly to Siena because of our outstanding reputation and excellent accounting program, whereas students at other schools don’t get that advantage and have to apply with the masses.

Have an awesome weekend!
-
Greg

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Histology... ugh.

The last few weeks have been insanely busy for me. I've been studying for my histology exam which is split up into a lab practical and a lecture exam over two days. Tomorrow I take the lab portion of it, and the following day the lecture exam. I didn't do as well as I had hoped for on my first exam, so I've been studying extra hard for this upcoming exam. On the last test, I knew all the material, but I had minor points taken off for not writing down specifically what the professor was looking for. Now that I have a better idea of how she grades her tests, I think this upcoming exam will be easier. I've already met with her and spoken to her about my grades. If I work hard, I can still pull off an A in this course.

That's part of the reason why I love Siena. The professors here are so understanding and are always willing to work with you. I love telling the story about my philosophy class my freshman year. I decided to take honors philosophy with Dr. Santilli. He's a great professor, but being my first real honors class, I had some difficulty with it. By mid-semester, I was averaging a C, and I'm typically an A student. I sat down with my professor and we talked it over. He worked with me on my final paper and gave me suggestions. He told me what books I should be looking into and what direction I should take my paper in. I re-wrote my paper so many times, and each time, my professor gave me great feedback. I ended up getting an A on my final paper which gave me a B+ as an overall course grade. To this day, that B+ is the lowest grade on my transcript, but I could not be prouder of it. I worked so hard to achieve that grade. It comes to show how willing professors are to work with you. The professors here at Siena genuinely care about the students and are willing to do whatever it takes to help a student pass a course.

Its times like these when I look back at my decision to come to Siena and realize that it was the best decision I ever made.

-Until next time,

Indira

Sunday, October 26, 2008

LSAT Spells Your Future!

For starters, my apologies for not posting sooner, I've been having some computer trouble. Fortunately, I have several friends who are computer whizzes and, if they fail to fix my computer disasters, I can always take my computer to IT&S, which is a technology support center located here on campus.

In any case my computer is now up and running again.

Back to the LSAT. I think I've mentioned this before, but the LSAT stands for the "Law School Admissions Test." If you do well on the LSAT and you will go to law school. If you don't do well on the LSAT then you will not go to law school (even if your GPA is 4.0). It is as simple as that. It's difficult to overstate just how important the test is to your chances of going to law school.

Seeing how attending law school is my goal after graduation, it is important that I start preparing for the LSAT. This past Saturday I was able to take a practice LSAT right here on campus. Getting a preview of what the test will look like should be very beneficial as I start to study for the test.

As a Siena student, there are several resources available to help me weave the not so simple path to law school. Dr. Cutler, for instance, is one of our political science professors here on campus. The man is a walking encyclopedia and makes it his job to do everything he can to help you along the process. Judge King, Siena's "Jurist-in-Residence" is always willing to answer your questions. The pre-law society can be of help too. The society plans programs throughout the year aimed at familiarizing students with the work they should be doing in order to be ready for the LSAT and for law school in general. For instance, this past week the Dean of Buffalo University Law School came on campus to speak with students.

As a junior, I'm looking to take the LSAT this coming June. Hopefully, with enough dedication on my part, as well as the ample resources available to me here on campus, I will do alright.

Until next time,
Mike DiSiena

"Law is order, and good law is good order." ~Aristotle

Saturday, October 25, 2008

What's New in your life?

Hey everyone,

How is your week going? I hope this blog finds you all in high spirits.

So it's October 25, have you heard back from any schools? Have you applied to any schools? Early Action, Early Decision, Regular Decision? Have you just recently re-taken your SAT'S?

I honestly cannot believe that I am a college sophomore. I graduated in 2007! I mean, I know I'm only 19 but I don't know, I don't feel 19. As Ferris Bueller states, (Ferris Bueller's Day Off, my favorite movie) Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. I am really different from freshman year, I guess you could say. I'm still doing all my work and of course, I am doing quite well. But I guess, I really am living in the moment. My semester is already more than half over, it really is flying by. Siena just keeps getting better with time for me; each and every new day, brings new challenges and most importantly more fun.

So now as I move back to you guys...How is your senior year? Show some school spirit, go to your homecoming, pep rally, and senior breakfast. Don't slack off in classes and enjoy your last year. Because as Ferris Bueller would say, It moves pretty fast, and if you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. It's going to come to an end very soon and then you start a whole new chapter in your life.

If your reading this blog, then you really have your college priorities in order. Apply to schools early and often. You only have one chance, and you must be certain that the school you attend, is perfect for you. For me, it was Siena. I immediately embraced the sense of community on this campus. How the students are just like one another and we all are in this together. We all do so much for each other, ranging from small things like simply holding the door for each other, or big things like always being there for each other. If you haven't visited Siena yet, you absolutely should and I promise you that you will feel like you'll belong. It doesn't matter if your a freshman or senior, we are a family.
To me, that's what college is about. Aside from advancing education, but making lifelong friendships. Meeting the men in my wedding party, and who knows maybe a future wife. There is so much more to college than paper after paper. And if people tell you that it's just strictly about that, and not about joining one of Siena's 75 clubs and organizations, in my opinion they are totally mistaken. College is what you make of it!

Good luck to all!
And remember, take one step at a time, there's no need to rush...

Let me know how your college search is going! Tell me about senior year!

I am here at your disposal, take advantage of it.

Until next week...

Love,

Patrick Creegan

Friday, October 24, 2008

Back!

Hey guys! Sorry I've been away for so long. I told Admissions I'd blog this semester and then I kinda forgot that I wasn't blogging. Oops! But some updates for you all. Over the Summer, I was selected as a McGuire Society Student to work with the Admissions staff @ Siena to conduct interviews, attend programs, and help with the application review process. It's been going great so far! I'm pleased with how involved I am as a Senior. Student Senate has been going well. We just got the ATM installed in the Townhouses, we would have the legal music downloading agreement before Thanksgiving, I am working to get other Albany area Student Governments together to share ideas and build networking, I'm hoping to change the campus computer homepages to the new Senate page (www.siena.edu/senate), and much more stuff is going on. I'll try to blog once a week or so to give you more specifics, but I just wanted to drop in and let everyone know I'm alive. Classes are going well, best midterm grades I've ever gotten in college came this semester! Woohoo! Ok people, contact me if you have questions, but I'll be back soon!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Cherry O!

Hello all! Today i received some WONDERFUL NEWS! I have been approved by Siena to go abroad!! Holy moly cannoli! Can you believe it?! I start my application to Birkbeck which is part of the University of London over the course of the next two weeks! IM SO EXCITED! :-)

Anyway, I hope everyones fall season is going well! I've been outrageously busy, but everything is going pretty well. Mid-semester grades also came out today, and the grades which are posted are pretty much all A's and A-'s, except for my Micro Economics grade, which is currently a C. Boo! But honestly, I'll take it, because it is so hard! And I'm really really trying. So, as long as I know I'm really trying my hardest, its all I can ask of myself.

On another note, Halloween is even closer! I actually just got an email from the St. Baldrick's foundation, which is a children's cancer foundation. I really want to try to organize an event on campus, where anyone who wants to donate/shave their head for kids cancer will come! I feel like Siena is such a giving, caring community that it can happen! So there's a bunch of exciting things going on in my life.

Anyway, gotta run, time to go do some work!

Lauren*

PS- How are all the applications coming?! Early decision and early action are coming soon! Id like to hear your stories! SHARE WITH ME! :o)

Monday, October 20, 2008

Halloween Extravaganza!

Every year, Siena's Black and Latino Student Union puts on an event called Halloween Extravaganza. Siena students volunteer to help out with certain tables at which local kids from the community can come and participate in activities. For instance, there will be face painting, pie-eating contests, pumpkin painting, and a mini haunted house!

This year I'll be helping out with the donut eating table. Kids have to eat a donut off of a piece of string without using their hands. They'll be racing against other kids for a prize. I'll be at the table representing the Asian Students Association, but also with my residents (because I'm an RA and using it as a service program)


The Halloween Extravaganza is this coming Saturday and I'm pumped to see all the kids from the community. Some of their costumes are so cute! Below is a picture from last year's halloween extravaganza. I'm somewhere in the crowd of kids explaining the rules.


- Until next time, Indira

Friday, October 17, 2008

Get Your Popcorn Ready...

Okay Okay, I know I'm late again...
I swear I didn't mean it, your boy over here sometimes gets busy haha.
But I have so much to blog about tonight, it really is going to be well worth your wait. I promise.

Chapter One: Haha I'm just kidding, but not really.

Currently, I am at my home on Long Island for the weekend. I know, I know, I'm a sophomore and I am home. Let's be honest, I still do get homesick. I drove home from campus today and I probably listened to Home by Daughtry about 85 times. Haha and yes I am one of those drivers who sings while he drives. I have no shame.

Anyway, I had such a busy week at Siena so far. It flew by and I cannot wait to go back to school on Sunday.

For starters, I got a 104 on my accounting exam (It was out of 100 points haha)! So that was an absolute great way to begin my week. My professor even approached me after class and congratulated me on a job well done. All my studying was well worth the 104 %. I did get a 75 on a business law test haha but we won't be discussing that in this blog.

Anyway, thats neither here nor there. As you may or may not know, Siena is a small, private liberal arts college. So what is a Business Finance major like myself doing at Siena. Well aside from our amazing AACSB business accreditation, I want to be fully educated. Siena educates the Cura Personalis, the whole person. The liberal arts have totally changed my life for the better.

Allow me to give you an example of what I am trying to say.

Through my freshman foundations class, we had to attend a lecture by a gentleman named Jim Keady and it was called, Sweatshops and Social Justice. It may not seem exciting. but it's just one part of the liberal arts that has changed my life. Jim Keady was a division one soccer coach at St. John's university and he was fired because he refused to wear Nike products. Nike uses sweatshops in Indonesia and pays their workers $ 1.25 a day. Jim moved to Indonesia for one month and lived the life of a sweatshop worker. How amazing is that? Nike outsources American jobs and puts their workers in hazardous conditions for little to no pay, just to make a quick buck. Well needless to say, Keady's presentation changed my life. As a freshman, I wrote a ten page paper about his topic. The theme of my paper was, do banks who lend funds to socially irresponsible companies, like Nike, have an obligation to make sure the money they lend is used for responsible purposes. Look at today's credit crisis and subprime housing market. Banks are just lending out money and not looking into socially responsible investments. We have a duty to all members of the human race and sweatshops are unacceptable.

So, Keady's presentation was so good last year, Siena has brought him back again this year! My professor knows how much it has infulenced my life and guess who is having dinner with Jim Keady this monday night. Thats right, I am! How awesome is that? One of my role-models who helped shaped who I am as a person is going to have dinner with me! Also, how awesome is my professor for looking out for me like that?

My education here at Siena thus far has been so much more than strictly business and finance. It is through my Siena College liberal arts education that will shape this future investment banker, venture capitalist and politican.

I'm still looking for my first comment still!

I can't wait to post back next week!

Love,

Patrick Creegan

We're half way there!

So it did not take that long for the Dodgers to lose since my last post. While I am disappointed that my favorite team won't be making an appearance in the World Series I'm glad I can spend some more time on my schoolwork rather than watching baseball. After all, it is midterm season (I can't believe half of the semester is over and done with already). Midterms in college are actually very similar to those in high school. They count for a large portion of your final grade and they cover everything you have done in the course. I'm feeling pretty good about the one's I have taken so far. Two midterms down and three to go. Wish me luck...please!

As for the goings on here at Siena I can report that last week Gideon Yago, of MTV fame visited the campus to discuss the power and influence of Generation X, which includes anyone from age 17-27. I went reluctantly to see him speak, at the request of one of my friends in charge of the event. In retrospect I'm glad I did because the statistics Yago recited were very interesting. What was most striking was the way MTV determines what programs it will produce. Yago said MTV hires anthropologists and ethnographers (basically people that study human behavior) to observe the average teenage life in America. They report back to MTV and MTV then makes its programs based directly on their reporting. Think about that the next time you're watching The Hills!

Alright, well, back to studying for me. Take care.
Mike DiSiena

Thursday, October 16, 2008

and so passes another week..

Hello hello hello!  Wow has it been hectic here at Siena!  I've been giving tours out the wazoo, and midterms midterms midterms!  I cant believe how fast this semester is flying by.  Its crazy!

So lets recap from the last time I wrote...

First off, parents weekend was awesome!  (It feels like wicked long ago..) but it was amazing.  We had so much fun, and seriously it was just nice to chill and relax with my family.  Speaking of which, I went home this past weekend.  It was yet again just a weekend of relaxation, which is so incredibly appreciated when your life is a whirlwind.  Your family is so much more appreciated when they aren't around every second. Ha ha :-)

I got my first midterm grade back today, and guess what?  I got an A!  I was so happy :-)  I mean it was Religion, but he's not exactly the easiest grader, so I'm happy.  And I actually didn't do as bad on my Economics midterm as I thought I did.  Still didn't do well, but hey, I passed, ha ha.

Halloween is approaching!  What is everyone being?!  I love Halloween so so SO much.  Me and my boyfriend are actually being Pebbles and Bambam from The Flintstones!  How funny is that?  I thought it was pretty cute :-P  Before I know it, it will be Thanksgiving, and Christmas, and then Spring semester.  AHHH!

OH! And i have some VERY exciting news!  I've been really thinking about studying abroad, so I went to this dinner that our school was sponsoring for the class of 2011, which was all about studying abroad.  All I have to say is, it fully confirms the fact that I want to go.  I have absolutely no doubts what so ever.  I really want to go to London, 1) because I've never been there, and 2) my cousin and her hubby live there!  So this way if I ever get homesick, they are there in case I need!  My meeting with Fr. Brian is on October 23rd, so hopefully all will go well!  I think I've mentioned this before, but two of my best friends are overseas right now, one in London, and one in Dublin.  They are really having the time of their lives!  

I also did yet another big thing today!  I DECLARED MY MAJOR! I am now an English Major, with a Business Minor, and a Theater Certificate.  I'm really happy I FINALLY declared!  Its just like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.  But honestly, I wouldn't have done it any other way besides coming in undeclared.  It gave me the opportunity to poke around a little bit, and dab in different things.

So, school is pretty awesome right now, and I just am going with the flow!  Hopefully, I can bring my grades up, just a bit, to reassure I'm okay with going abroad.  I'm so excited!!!! <--did i mention that already?!

And PS, I know I promised I was going to be consistent, and I'm sorry I didn't write (again) last week.  I promise I'm not usually this bad of a blogger, but life has just been super hectic.  I pinkie pinkie swear that I will be writing every week from now on!  I mean come on, who doesn't want to hear ALL ABOUT ME?! :-)  jk jk.

Alrighty!  Till next time folks!,
Laur

Where does the time go?!

Hey everyone, hope all is well.

As of late I haven't been able to figure out where the time has gone. I'm always so busy between hockey, school, and friends that I haven't been able to sit back and take it all in. I just realized the other day, we are already half way through our first semester this week. I couldn't believe it! Only a month and a half into school and the semester is almost gone. Soon Thanksgiving (aka my favorite holiday) will be here. Once we come back from that little vacation we have two maybe two and a half weeks before the semester closes and winter break begins. I remember during orientation professors, counselors, and advisers stressing to the student body that there is no time to waste. If your a student that is slow to get started in school, you're going to have a tough time, because before you know it, the marking period will fly by. The best advise to give is to jump right into your work. If you don't, the work will definitely catch up to yah if your not careful, especially if your a student who plans to be active in sports or clubs around campus. Most teachers have limited grades. Some give little to no homework and base their grading around tests and quizzes. Learning to study is a tough thing. There are a lot activities going on around campus, but its up to you as to whether or not you take part or study. I learned this idea quickly after I got back my first bio exam. I ended up saving my studying for the last minute and the grade reflected. Currently, I'm trying to dig myself out of a hole by doing the best I can on the few assignments our teacher gives us. Not good!... There's a time to study and a time to play, its just realizing when its appropriate for which.

Take it easy ya'll,

Josh Baillargeon

Week #42

So its been another crazy-busy week for me. We had a long weekend-which was great-but it was such a tease…I could really use like 2 weeks off about now.
I am going this weekend with the business fraternity I am involved with, Delta Sigma Pi, to a business leadership conference in Boston, MA. All of the collegiate and alumni chapters in the northeast will be represented so I am very excited for lots of fun and excellent networking.

Attention all potential accounting majors (aka number-crunching nerds….jk!) tonight I am going to an information session about the new Masters of Science in Accountancy program that Siena is starting up. As you know Siena is an only undergraduate institution. However, in response to New York State changing the requirements for accountants to sit for the uniform certified public accountancy (CPA) exam, Siena has followed suit with other colleges in implementing a Masters degree program that will fulfill the educational requirements. The program is a one-year accelerated M.S. degree. I am looking forward to hearing what they have to say about the program because I would LOVE to stay at Siena an extra year for my Masters rather than go elsewhere!

Anyways I am signing-off here…I have philosophy in an hour and want to re-read the assignment so I’m not lost (it can get pretty complex!).

Until next time,
Greg


If there were ever a time to dare,
to make a difference,
to embark on something worth doing,
it is now.
Not for any grand cause, necessarily—
but for something that tugs at your heart,
something that’s your aspiration,
something that’s your dream.

You owe it to yourself to make your days here count.
Have fun.
Dig deep.
Stretch.
Dream big.

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Re-cap!

Whoa, talk about busy! These last few weeks have been absolutely crazy! Here's a recap of what's been going on in my life:

I had multiple exams over the past few weeks. From Spanish to histology and a religion paper as well, I've been busy studying. I usually go down to the library to study, but sometimes I'll go over to Roger Bacon, the science building to study. Science majors have 24-hour access to the building.

I've also been busy with Read for the Stars, a new club on campus. I'm actually vice president so it has been kind of crazy lately. The club goes into Albany's inner city schools and promotes literacy and education. Last week the students made their first visit into the school, so I have been busy coordinating the activities.

Also, we had our first practice for the Bhangra Team! This is a north Indian dance team and I just tried out this semester, so I need to learn the whole 7 minute dance! The first practice went very well. It's a lot of fun, but I also need to practice in my own time. We're performing at Siena's Fall Fusion, a multicultural talent show on November 15th.

Well, thats about all I have time for now, but I promise I'll update more often!

-Indira

A long week

Although this week was a shortened one for Siena, it was certainly long enough for me. It was pretty "rough" to put it short. Homework, homework, homework, that's all it consisted of. I've come to find out quickly that college is a big step compared to high school. For me high school was far from a walk in the park, there were a lot of late nights and early mornings doing homework, but college seems like the homework just keeps coming. Now I don't want to scare you because there is certainly time for fun in college as well as the ability pass with good grades; however, you have got to be very disciplined with your time. The most difficult aspect of homework in college is that the courses and curriculum are much more strict. It's tough on me when i spend 4 or 5 hours on homework at night, pass in my paper and receive a "B" or a "C", especially when in high school I received all "A's". Although I haven't got the grades I've wanted on all my papers and labs, there have been helpful resources for me to go to in order to do better. Each department has tutoring sessions for free, teachers have office hours, and peers and classmates are always willing to help. One the greatest perks of Siena is their ability to help you succeed in college. Nobody wants to see you fail. If a student does fail its because they just don't care or aren't willing to put in the time to understand the material. Professors want to help you, which, in my eyes, is awesome. I had a problem with my labs this week and couldn't understand what I was doing wrong. I made the initiative to go see my professor and we sat down for an hour, chatted about the rubric and grading system and I could finally see where I was going wrong. Our little talk will save me time in the future doing labs and allow me the chance of attaining a better grade. Never be afraid to ask a question your unsure about today, cause it could save you big time tomorrow!!!

Keep it real...

Josh Baillargeon

Friday, October 10, 2008

Sportsfans!

The beginning of Fall means the baseball playoffs are right around the corner. I don't know if that means anything to you but it means I get to root for my Los Angeles Dodgers. This year it also meant my Economics professor could root for his Chicago Cubs, my Basic Logic professor could root for the Milwaukee Brewers, and my Philosophies of Love professor could root for the Boston Red Sox.

I particularly like to watch the games with my friends in my residence hall. As soon as game time begins everybody is watching and reacting to what is going on all simultaneously in different rooms. It might sound strange but it can become hilarious at times with people shouting across the hall. Looking toward the World Series I'm hoping for Dodgers v. Red Sox. My roommate is a die hard Red Sox fan and, as I said, I love the Dodgers. On top of that he thinks my mere presence in the room is bad luck for the Red Sox. That should make for some real fun, stay tuned for further developments!

My Long Weekend

Hi everyone,

How's it going? I hope all is well.

So, Siena has no classes today (Friday, 10/10/08) for President's holiday. I remember this time last year when I was a freshman, I was so excited to go home for the first time and be with my family. This year, my family is coming to visit me (so as you can imagine, I am quite excited). Campus is very quiet due to the fact that most students are home. I'm happy for the freshman that they are mostly all home with their families. 

So believe it or not, I actually have some pretty exciting stuff planned for next week. HaHa, its the truth, I swear. This tuesday, I am going to a Study Abroad Dinner on campus. If you want to study abroad, it has to be planned very far in advance. I am looking to go junior year (next year) spring semester. The dinner seems awesome! First, we all have all this international food and then past students who have studied abroad tell us about their travels and their internships. 

Also, I have set up an appointment with the Study Abroad Office here at school for the following day to discuss my future plans. I would absolutely love to go to England. 

So I will keep everyone posted next week on how my interview went and how the dinner was!

Keep reading guys! And can someone please leave me a comment and show me some love!

Love,

Patrick Creegan

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Real World?!

So the last 2 weeks have been insanity. I feel like I am so immersed in studying, group projects, and homework…it is crazy! I have two major group presentations in the works: Operations Management and Taxation. Siena is big on group projects and class presentations. While they may seem annoying, they are excellent preparation for what you will encounter in the business world presenting to colleagues, clients, and so on.
Speaking of the business world…I mentioned last time I wrote that I was applying for a summer accounting internship at Pricewaterhouse Coopers, one of the “big four” firms. My resume was selected for an interview, which I had last week and it went great! They did the interviews right here on campus at the career center. I was so nervous! I got an email yesterday though that they were very impressed, and want to have me to their New York City office for another interview and to meet one of the partners of the firm. They are paying for me to come down to the city and for a hotel!! So exciting!

I’ll keep you posted!

.: | Greg

Friday, October 3, 2008

My First Case!

Hi everyone!

How are you doing? I hope that everything is going well for you.

As stated in some of my previous blogs, I am a member of the Student Conduct Review Board here at Siena. I sit on this committee with eight other students ( 1 more fellow sophomore, 4 juniors and 3 seniors) and six faculty members. Our job is to interpret Siena life and protect the rights and responsibilities of every member of the college community. We face really tough cases as a board but its amazing how we all work together and formulate an exceptional opinion that benefits both the college and the student. As a review board member, I try to get the best facts possible and get as many answers as I possibly can. We do not look look to harm the student. To be honest, I am a student so I give them the benefit of the doubt. I am involved in so many clubs here but the Review Board is something that I am most proud of. It's kind of funny because people always say as a board member, you should be careful because you are prosecuting fellow students on a small campus. I feel like a powerful judge when people say that. It's actually pretty sick.

So, today your favorite rookie had his first case. There were so many witnesses and it went over 3 and a half hours. The whole board was so focused and I was so proud to take part in such an awesome experience. My goal as a board member is to make sure that with every sanction (punishment) that I help assign, I want it to be a learning experience for all parties involved. I do not just say, okay well, you had a violation, we should expel you. That isn't my job. It's our job to find the facts and to help all students learn and make the most informed decision to benefit Siena and the student.

I heard we have had plenty of readers, thats awesome guys! And to my fellow bloggers, let's keep up the good work baby!

Yours truly,

Patrick Creegan

Transitus

In my now three years at Siena I had yet to attend the Transitus. "The what?" you might be asking. Well, as you may or may not know, Siena bills itself as a Catholic, particularly Franciscan college. That means the college is inspired by, and models itself in many ways after the example of St. Francis of Assisi. Every year, a short prayer service is celebrated "commemorating the passing of St Francis' soul into eternal life." This is the Transistus.

As I said, this was the first time I had attended and I have to say it was rather moving. Every Franciscan friar on the Siena campus came to the event, solemnly proceeding into the chapel here on campus. Among other attendees were various professors and administrators, not to mention students and their families.

During the service I was struck by, among other things, the strong sense of community that Siena has the fortune of fostering. It is easy to overlook this treasure but events such as the Transistus serve as little reminders that the "Siena community" is more than just words.

Enjoy,
Michael DiSiena

"Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance." ~St. Francis

The first game!

After weeks of practicing and hardcore dry land training the hockey team finally had their first game. All of our hard work and extra efforts paid off as we gave Oswego State a thumping, 8-2. The first five minutes turned out to be a little scary as our captain got a minor concussion driving to the net, but that only fueled the flames for our success. Coach kicked us in the rear after seeing our sluggish start and we rallied to a 4 goal first period. The second proved to be even better as we pounded in 4 more goals and added to their misery. When the third period rolled around coach tapped me on the shoulder. He told me "Get ready, your going in." Being that I'm a freshmen i didn't expect to get too much playing time. I was surprised to see that I was the back-up goaltender for our opening game, but i hadn't expected to play. I was so nervous it was ridiculous. The last thing I wanted to do was blow a 7 goal lead in twenty minutes of hockey! Low and behold my anxiety only made me play that much better. I only let in one goal on the power play off a rebound, no biggy. My teammates were awesome, so supportive. They could tell I was nervous and made every effort to relax me. They really came through for me. They've made me feel more a part of the team and taken me under their wing. We all hang out both on and off the ice. The team has, in a way, become my family. We in fact have two games this weekend and hope to pull out some wins. I hope ya'll attend the home game against Robert Morris! Keep it real.

Peace, Josh Baillargeon