With a new quarter comes new challenges. One specific challenge for me was learning how to balance all of my responsibilities with the additional pressures of working. This quarter I was hired to work at the front desk of Angwin Hall. The extra money in my pocket is a blessing; the unique hours, however, are a different story. My first week on the job, there was a night when I was only able to sleep three hours. I was always told that college would leave me heavily sleep deprived; however, I had been able to maintain my regular sleep schedule until this quarter. I spoiled myself with at least eight hours of sleep a night. Sadly, that is no longer the case.
Another challenge I had to face was scheduling conflicts. As a result, I am taking Religious Understandings with the Sophomore class this quarter. At first, I was hesitant to be separated from my class since I would not be able to foster the connections that were made in the first quarter as easily. Luckily, three of my classmates joined Religious Understandings with me. The class was not what I anticipated. Rather than simply understanding the history of various religions, we are digging into the intentions and significance of various sacred objects and practices. We also are lucky to make several field trips to various temples. Additionally, this class has given me an opportunity to get to know the sophomore honors students better. I have more connections within the Honors Program now and am grateful for it.
I have had friends outside of the Honors program comment on how closely knit the honors kids are. At first, this fact was daunting to me as I was entering into an already well-established family. However, as time has passed and I have attended more events, I continue to be integrated into the Honors family. It is great to know people who understand the difficulties I am experiencing. I feel comfortable walking into South Hall knowing that I will find familiar faces. If someone were to ask me why I value being in the Honors Program I would tell them that it is a community that encourages growth in a fun way. I have enjoyed many laughs during vespers and game nights, but within the classroom as well. I also am inspired to work hard by the students within Honors. I am excited to see how the rest of the quarter offers me more opportunities and a chance to make more connections.