MBA from ASU

Arizona State University has a fantastic online MBA program that I would LOVE to be a part of. In fact, I would apply tomorrow for the January cohort if I had a willing "sponsor."

So, if you are a millionaire who would love to fund an eager, intelligent young woman in her twenties - please do give me a call.

Or - we can work out a deal. I will work for your company for free if you pay for my graduate school tuition and my membership to the Public Relations Society of America, Greater Tucson Leadership, United Way Young Leaders Society, National Speakers Association AZ, and National Speakers Association. A subscription to the Wall Street Journal would be nice too. Any takers?

Vote on New Blog Topic

Adventures of SS is my general blog - my every-day thoughts on family, faith, politics, education, business, motherhood, fashion, and career.

I am considering starting up a more specific, professional blog in addition to this one. And I'd like your help in determining the topic. What would you like to read about?

Here are a few of my ideas:

All Things Tucson - the people, places, politics, and public happenings in and around the Tucson-metro area
All Things Vail - similar to above, but zeroing in on the Vail/SE Tucson community
Free Money for College - scholarship postings, ways to save, etc.
Career Advice- what to major in, interview tips, advancing in your field, etc.

More to come...let me know if you have other suggestions.

Book Review: The Audacity of Hope

I just finished "The Audacity of Hope" by Barack Obama. Here's what I wrote immediately after I closed the pages:

Well-written and educational, yet also authentic, honest, personal, and moving. Obama presents core issues in a reasonable, balanced way - and he is not so arrogant to pretend to know the answers to all questions or the cures for all of society's failings. He shook my conscience and challenged my beliefs with his postmodern and progressive perspectives. And I actually think I might vote for this guy if he secures the democratic seat. I certainly don't agree with him on everything, but he seems fair-minded, family-oriented, and future-focused. I will watch with eager intent as Obama pursues the 2008 presidential seat.

Here are a few clarifying questions to those who might ask:

1. Isn't his book just popular because he is in a position of power?
Probably, but that makes his journey all the more intriguing to me. I am always fascinated by how successful people start out and what principles guide them as leaders.

2. Do you agree with all of Obama's stances?
Not all, but many. His discussions about foreign policy, faith and politics, and family especially resonated with me. I also enjoyed reading his ideas about reform in the areas of education and the workforce.

3. Aren't all democrats immoral schmucks?
Wow, that's harsh. Read this book. We need to be more focused on our commonalities as humans and less divisive when it comes to political party affiliations. Yes, we should debate and speak our minds (that is the beauty of democracy, after all...), but we should enter into our disagreements as listeners and not only persuaders.

4. Why would you consider voting for Obama?
I appreciate his honesty and authenticity (willing to admit that he doesn't always know the answers), his commitment to his family, and his love for our country. That said, I need to do A LOT more research before I cast my vote. After all, I read his book - so it is, of course, just a bit biased in his favor.

You're a Nerd If...

Write "agree" or "disagree" next to the following statements:

1. I love school and would constantly be pursuing a new degree if I had the money to finance it.
2. A Ph.D. is in my future.
3. Attending conferences is fun.
4. I watch political debates and enjoy them.
5. If a local coffee shop hosted a "Coffee with the Candidate" event, I would attend.
6. I regularly browse the local university's website for the latest news about research projects and new degree programs.
7. The library and the bookstore are two of my favorite places.
8. My idea of an amazing birthday present is a gift certificate for an online bookseller.
9. When I receive my Alma Mater's alumni publication, I read it thoroughly.
10. I have written a letter of compliment or complaint to the President of the United States, my local representatives, and at least five businesses.

If you answered "agree" to all ten, my husband Tim would say that you are most definitely a nerd. I, on the other hand, would simply say that we could be fabulous friends.

Generation X or Y

Online dictionaries say that Generation X consists of people that were born between the early 1960's and the mid 1970's while Generation Y groupies, also known as the Millennials, are people born between 1978-2000. The exact dates fluctuate from site to site, but, in every case, I seem to stand almost right at the intersection of X and Y since my birth date falls in 1982.

It turns out that I am pretty accurately placed in my generation when it comes to my technology use as well. Penelope Trunk has posted a great survey on her blog that allows readers to determine what generation they fall into based on their use of technology. In my case, it was extraordinarily accurate. I scored 11 points, meaning that I use technology like a Generation Xer, but I am on the verge of using technology like a Generation Yer.

Go take it - and tell me where you end up...

Making the Most out of High School, Tip #10

Tip #10 Apply for scholarships and enter contests.

Why? Here's the countdown.

3. Winning scholarships is an incredible thing to put on your resume.
2. Many scholarships and contests offer more than just money. They offer an experience (...like an all-expense-paid trip, an internship, or a laptop computer.)
1. Of course, the biggest benefit of all is a free college education.

Entering and exiting college without debt will put you one big step ahead in the path to success so don't miss your chance. Apply and apply often...

Making the Most out of High School, Tip #9

Tip #9 Get a job (maybe).

Getting a job in high school can be a good thing for many students. It's a great way to learn about responsibility and money management.

That said, if you have implemented all of the other tips (get good grades, play sports, volunteer, join a club or two, etc.), your schedule is probably pretty full. So it might be a good idea to put off the part-time job thing until college. Going overseas during the summer, volunteering at a children's shelter, and shooting for straight A's will benefit you much more than flipping burgers for minimum wage.

Note: if you are in the position where you need to get a job to pay for gas, car insurance, or even food/clothes, do try to get a job in a reputable place. If possible, avoid fast food. Ask your parents or your friend's parents for referrals. Stop in at local offices that interest you and just ask.