The Reality of a Tough Life

Whoever said college was easy definitely didn't go to college. It's been a little over a month since my last blog post (and the beginning of the semester) and I've been hard at work. My classes are a lot more challenging and the work that is assigned for me to do outside of them is very time demanding. Being a psych major I realize the amount of schooling that it takes beyond a 4 year undergraduate degree to become successful. I'm willing to put in my 110% to succeed.

fun fact: i don't usually get this surprised at the library.

thumbs up: i love the library and studying.

Recently I began a tutoring position at PCAT (Parents and Children Advance Together). This organization is one that focuses on helping young children, who come from underprivileged backgrounds, to read. Its mission is one of great importance to me. I love working with kids and have always enjoyed reading from a young age so I knew this would be the perfect job. Being able to strengthen a young child's reading level helps me realize the importance of education at such a young age. It makes me wonder the numbers of those children in the world who are never taught how to read beyond a first or second grade level. Being able to be a positive influence/role model for these children makes me feel great inside. When I finish tutoring I say my goodbyes yet also feel a tinge of sadness inside. These kids come from areas with a heavy levels of poverty and high crime rates. If you were to ask one of these kids what they wanted to be when the grow up they might tell you they don't know. For children who come very little it's hard to see a future. They are in school from 7 a.m. up until 6 in the evening. They lead a life that I have never experienced. Through all of the hardship they endure they still manage to remain excited about learning and come to tutoring with a smile on their face. And for that, I admire them.

On another note I have begun to pursue interest in the search for my birth mother. Throughout my life I have never really thought about the prospect of meeting her until now. It wasn't until the middle of January when I realized that it was something I needed to do, not only for me, but for her. For 19 years I have gone knowing very little about my familial background. I realize the many outcomes of this search. With such little information to go on I might not find her at all, she could be dead, or she won't want to meet with me (it isn't uncommon for birth mother's to hide the fact that they gave up their baby in order to protect themselves if they now have a husband/family). Then again in birth mother searches you should also expect the unexpected. I'm hoping for only the best and that there is some kind of closure that I can come to.

With spring break on the horizon (5 days) I am super excited to venture to New York City! I have family and friends that reside in the city. In all honesty I am more than ready to leave Tampa for a much needed break!! My next blog will revolve around my adventure to the big apple and all of the shenanigans that I get myself into. Stay tuned!

Finally, I wanted to finish off this post with some pictures (mostly so my parents know I'm still alive/doing well). If you know me, you know I love to take pictures, and have plenty to show off of my college career so far. Enjoy!

fun fact: we're all basically making the same face.

fun fact: i love these kids.

fun fact: i never make this pose in pictures... ever.

fun fact: i'm friends with Lauren Conrad.

fun fact: we're all from Minnesota.