Halloween is almost here. It seems like each holiday is just a constant reminder of how things used to be so different. Growing older certainly makes the holidays seem so different than the innocence they were surrounded with when we were younger. We didn't have to worry about the state of the economy, whether or not rights would or could be taken away from us, or if the next President would or would not be more of the same ideologies -- we just worried about how much candy we would be getting and how much of it we would be allowed to consume. Sometimes it's harder to know the difference as to whether it would have been better to be kept in the dark about these things or to have full (or as full as our own knowledge permits us to grasp) knowledge. I suppose at least now we have a more perception, the knowledge that, if we could, we could make things better ourselves instead of letting others take the reigns.

"Father asked us what was God's noblest work. Anna said men, but I said babies. Men are often bad, but babies never are.

- Louisa May Alcott -

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I'm babysitting my sister's kid today, the poor kid is sick so he couldn't go to his day care and neither my sister nor my brother-in-law can take off work, so he goes to his uncle today. I must say, it's not always an easy task to take care of another person's kid, you always have to be constantly watching what you do and say, not that you don't that with your own, but it's just different, you can probably gauge your own kids capabilities and retention when you have your own. It just makes me examine myself though, how ready I am to have my own.

Things have changed and it becomes harder to imagine how things used to be. As society settles more and more into comfortable status-quo, we start forgetting that things didn't used to be as they are now. Women could not vote until the 1920's, African-Americans were seperate but considered "equal" up until the 1950's. It's so easy to settle into the whole mentality that life is good because it is good for me. And it's hard to impress to people who are no longer part of the "underserved" to become part of system that helps to serve. While it is true that there is still sexism, that there is still racism, how is it so hard to make a jump when someone else is being subjugated to what was once part of your own past struggles and lend a helping hand.

It's both a blessing and a curse that the weather has been so weird lately. Personally, I am not a big fan of cold weather (I hate hot weather as well, really, but I hate being freezing more) but this weird heat during Fall/Winter season is just odd. I love having the balmy weather and not having to carry around a thick jacket wherever I go. However, as much as I love the weather, I think it's also weird to have a summer day in the middle of winter.

I think that it's a little amusing how some things never seem to change. I've been on facebook for a while now, it's just recently that my high school "friends" have started to add me to their lists. I suppose, in high school I might have been known as the "gay" guy (but no one ever really knew for sure), they all kind of knew it but would not acknowledge it. It seems like the social pecking order still hasn't changed much, I didn't start getting added until some people higher up on the social pecking order (back in high school) added me, now the others follow suit. What they don't realize, I think, is that it's the ones higher up on the pecking order that added me, and not the other way around. Or maybe, I've given myself too much credit and them too little.

Nowadays I feel like there's a distinct disconnect between myself and life. I think it might be because my life has been pretty static of late, everything's the same from one day to the next. There's a sense of comfortable-ness that is hard to let go of. It should be easier, to go for what you want instead of just satisfying what it is that you need.

I've been hearing some news about people ripping up "Yes on Prop 8" signs. This proposition is supposed to be really controversial, but really it shouldn't be. I personally don't agree with ripping up "Yes on 8" signs, even though (honestly) I have very strong urges to do so. However, I do see where people who do so are coming from. Bigotry, in this day and age has become so discreet, it's become almost accepted and honestly, even ignored. If those had been signs that promoted racial segregation, people would be up in arms, as they should be. People say that homosexuality is about morals, but wasn't slavery once condoned by churches as well? I am so confused how gays and lesbians being married are a threat to marriage between opposite sex couples. It boggles my mind.

If you've got one drink, and one friend, and 45 minutes, smooth rides make for boring stories. A little calamity, that's worth talking about.

- Grey's Anatomy -

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Inspiration comes to us from many things, from a good talk with a friend, a beautiful sunset, wise words read from a book. They can come after many days of thought or gradually like a flower suddenly blooming into spring or out of the blue in the shower that makes you want to rush to your journal and write it down before it fades away, like the gloom of night from the rising sun. Inspiration, determination, drive, motivation, whatever you want to call it, is just a nudge, it's up to us how we use it to fuel ourselves up or simply to acknowledge it and let it pass from memory.

What's inspired me recently? Watching James Franco's interview behind the scenes on SNL and his talk about going back to Columbia University (although it also spawned a thought in me to go to Columbia University to study and stalk him, but that's a different story). Another one is Ronald's interview on Downe4U with Krys Freeman on downelink, but the reason behind that is more personal.

We came back from watching "Max Payne" tonight. I was excited to see it, at first, because I like Mark Wahlberg, he's a good actor and he doesn't really pick any stupid movies. My cousin, however, informed me that it got bad reviews. I don't place a lot of faith in reviews, at least only if they're mediocre, it could go 50/50. Although, "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" got good reviews and that was the only I've ever walked out on voluntarily (well, "Blair Witch" but that was because I was getting nauseous and at least I eventually went back in). I went in to watch it with a little apprehension, I had never played the game on the PS2, so I didn't come in with too many preconceived notions. All in all, it was OK, it wasn't bad, it wasn't great, it was OK. The plot took a bit of getting used to, I feel that they rushed the first part, the most important, the plot set up. You didn't feel a very good connection with the main character, I mean you don't always, but whether the main character is good or bad, you have to understand where they're coming from, I didn't feel that from the beginning. It wasn't until about the middle that the plot actually started getting involved, so by that time, a lot of people had already zoned out and it was hard to get their attention back.

I just wanted to say that DVRs are one of the most wonderful things in the world. Not only do they record the shows you want to watch but you can also tune out and watch other shows. It's hard to imagine that with all this great technology in this day and age, just 20 years ago or so, computers were about just as elusive as unicorns and typewriters were the shiznit. Kids these days have it so much easier than I ever did... although that just makes me sound like my parents.

Hello, you, how was the rest?

You made it through, but nevertheless

I got you out on a wire

You be love and I'll be a liar.

- Yellowcard -

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Part V: Where to next?

After patiently waiting for your acceptance (or rejection) letters, it's finally come to this. If you've gotten into the school you wanted, then awesome. If not, there are always the backup schools that you applied to. If all else fails, remember that there are other options, there are ALWAYS options. One being you could choose to go/stay at the junior college and bring up your grades and participate more in campus activities (or less if your grades are being affected). If you're going the grad school route, review more in order to bring up your GRE scores, if your GPA is low, make sure that your GRE scores are higher and vice versa.

Some people will say that college is for everyone, this is not always true. There are other alternatives to a four/five year colleges (i.e. vocational schools, trade schools, etc. etc.), don't limit yourself.

Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.

- John Quincy Adams -

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Part IV: Keeping on top

It is crucial, in this in-between period, the limbo after application and before acceptance that you keep up the efforts. It can often seem tedious and fruitless, but things will pay off in the end. You're almost done, just keep at it. You want to make sure that your grades stay up to par and that you don't slack off. Many people think that once the applications are out that they can simply just kick back. Schools are always trying to see if you keep true to your word. In this interim period, you would do well to review your backup plans. Be optimistic enough that you keep your spirits up and pessimistic enough that you don't put all your eggs in one basket.

Homophobia is like racism and anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry in that it seeks to dehumanize a large group of people, to deny their humanity, their dignity and personhood.
- Coretta Scott King -
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Part III: Ready to apply

This is the easiest step (although to some, this can be the hardest step). Once you've taken your tests and researched your schools, it's time to apply. You must always be mindful of application deadlines, certain schools process applications at differing dates, although, like high school, most college applications are due at the end of November. Although keep in mind, especially if you're in junior college, that you can sometimes choose the semester or quarter of your entry. What can sometimes be construed as the hardest part... the entry essay, this is what can set you apart from your peers. It is also in your essay that you can explain any anomalies in your grades / performance. When sending in your applications, check and then double check that all the paperwork the college has asked from you is in order, the more comprehensive and complete it is, the less troubles you will have in the process. It would be a good idea when you head to the post office to have delivery confirmation of your application, it might give you some peace of mind to know that your application has been well received. This would also be a good time to check up on any financial aids the government can offer you.

Pete Hornberger: You know, you actually did a good job on this.

Liz Lemon: Why do you sound so surprised? I love America. Just because I think gay dudes should be allowed to adopt kids and we should all have hybrid cars doesn't mean I don't love America.

- 30 Rock -

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Part II: Choosing the right school

Choosing the right school is almost as important as choosing the right program. A school's atmosphere, environment, social settings, and locations play a great part in your mental and physical health and ultimately your success.

First of all, identify all the schools that you'd even be remotely interested in that offer the program that you want to be in. If you're interested in going beyond a Bachelor's education, you might also want to research schools that offer a follow up Masters/PhD program. A lot of people often think that all schools are the same, but that's not always the case, certain schools offer different "concentrations" or "focus." Try to limit your choices to the top 3, but it's always nice to have backups, look into at least 5, if you have the resources to do so.

Next, do some campus hunting. Visit the campus and look at the diversity, safety, parking spaces, and the surroundings. Look how easy (or hard) it is to get on campus. On-campus housing is more convenient but usually more pricy. Off-campus housing is often cheaper but you have to figure out transportation, utilities, etc. It's a give and take. If your prospective campus is out of state, it is almost imperative that you visit it if you have no idea at all about the area, also keep in mind that a college campus in the summer will not have the same weather in the winter, contrary to popular belief of Californians, there actually ARE four seasons... at least in other states.

Then, look into the "offers" of schools. Some schools offer free rides, scholarships, or stipends. If you have a special ability, disability, skill, or depending on your gender, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, schools might offer you different advantages. Schools typically want a more diverse campus, diversity means different input, more points of view, and this tends to attract more students. Don't be afraid to exploit your specialness.

Also, as a last note to your uber extroverted people, try to do additional research into the surrounding areas, night life, shopping areas, restaurants are all also part of a good education. Being a party animal stuck in the boondocks where the nearest club is five hours away will not be conducive to a happy college life. Find out all the campus clubs and organizations on campus as those will also act to enrich your college experience. And even though you might be stuck on a mountainside for a school in Antartica, even there (I'll say this about college students' resilience) you will ALWAYS find a way to have fun.

And as usual, don't forget to see your college counselor for additional information.

An excerpt from someone's online questionnaire, number 9 made me chortle.:

[06] Do you wish marijuana would be legalized already?
Yes, and then Slap a Tax on that shiet so our fckng school systems can get more crap.

[07] Are you for or against premarital sex?
To each their own.

[08] Do you believe in god?
When I need to.

[09] Do you think same sex marriage should be legalized?
Yes. How does it even come across sounding "normal" when you say "I can't get married because it's illegal."

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Part I: Preparation

Preparation for a transfer is not an easy thing. Whether you're straight out of high school or in a junior college, being put on the spot to decide your future career is a BIG thing. Notice, I said career, not job. Jobs are merely something you do, careers as something that you love to do (it doesn't always work out that way, but you want to get as close to it as possible). Keep in mind as well, most people don't always start out with their planned career, a lot of people get jobs, like it and decide to stick with it. Some people will never get to their career, ultimately, it's up to you.

First off, SEE YOUR COLLEGE COUNSELOR! This will make sure that you have all your bases covered.

A big advantage of going to a junior college is that it provides you with a chance to explore your options. Perhaps you just LOVE math but you also express a great interest in Japanese, here's a tip, take both classes! Explore as many different things as you want. Keep this in mind. If you're already sure of what you want to do, take some out-of-the-blue classes anyway, step out of you comfort zone (something that you will at least like i.e. don't take rockclimbing if you have acrophobia). This may seem like "wasting" time, but let's put it into perspective, now that you actually HAVE the chance to take the classes that you are curious about, you should do it instead of spending more money while you're in a four year university, unless you REALLY like taking 20-24 units each quarter/semester like I did (I don't suggest it). I also suggest that, if you can, do some background research in what you're interested in certain schools and try to get some preprequisites out of the way.

Secondly, research on whether or not you need to take the SAT's / SAT II's or both. I suggest taking it as soon as possible, if you're as bad at math as I am, having that fresh on your mind is a big help on the test. If you're as bad as I am, I suggest taking a refresher course.

Hopefully, throughout this time you've kept your eye on the ball, taken your tests, taken a few exploratory classes, and maybe more or less solidified your planned career. Once you have a basic idea of what you want to spend a lot of your life (hopefully) doing, it's time to choose your school.

The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.

- Alvin Toffler -

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In my journey to get into graduate school, I see that there is a sort of parallel that could be gleaned from my hardships to that of another person. From high school I went directly into university, although my journey to get my undergraduate diploma is not the same there will be many similarities. I will, in the next few entries, attempt to give the "common" person's possible actions that should help in preparing them to transfer to a university. This is in no way to be a substitute for a college counselor's more informed decisions that have been updated and backed up by colleges, this is meant only to supplement that.

What could possibly qualify me to give information in this realm?

I was in college (UC Irvine) an active participant of the high school outreach programs that were provided for students both in clubs and by the college institution itself. I was the Director of the High School Outreach Program through the University and helped develop a working program (and training) for the school and the students from scratch. Through my program we were able to host more than 300 students on campus and educate them in how to successfully (or at least with more ease) apply and hopefully get into a college of their choice. In the course of the passing years however, this information has changed, but the process and the protocols should still remain inherently similar.

This is what will be covered in the next few entries.

Getting into higher education:
Part I: Preparation
Part II: Choosing the right school
Part III: Ready to apply
Part IV: Keeping on top
Part V: Where to next?

Until next time.

I'm taking a break from campaigning for the proper Presidential candidate and getting back to what's REALLY important, entertainment.

Rejoice fans of Bleach and Naruto, a new anime has risen from the ranks of the mundane, the poorly drawn, and the badly scripted. Soul Eater, which has been out for a couple of months has hit the downloaded circles. I'm a little behind my anime as I haven't attended any Anime Expos recently. Watching the first episode of Soul Eater was a joy. The characters seem to have depth, the rendering and the setting are wonderfully done, and the plot seems to be developing fairly well... and of course the fighting scenes are awesome. The setting reminds me of a cross between Mega Man and Darkstalkers and so do the sprites. I highly recommend this anime.

I've been reading Stephenie Meyers' series. I was oddly surprised at how mature it is. I was expecting it to be somewhat teeny bopper-y but it is quite mature in tone and subject matter, although sometimes I think that it is too mature for the age that it is addressed to, but then again, I thought, I think I was somewhat around that age when my own journies into adulthood began. Sometimes I tend to be condescending to my younger cousins when I speak to them, they're not kids anymore, even though I used to change their diapers when they were younger. Time is passing too quickly.

ACBTF:

AT: i've been watching a lot of her [Palin] interviews online, man it's crazy the things people put up with just because they're "republican." they're so gungho about being "republican" ... just as i am about being "liberal"

JA: yeah...alot are a bit ignorant but not everyone is. well democrats get blamed for bein too liberal but not everyone is either =P here i am talkin about politics and im not even political. ha.

AT: yeah i know, i hate people

JA: haha yes boris

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It's been so long since I've been out partying that I feel like I'm growing cobwebs between my toes. Is it natural for a person to just lose interest in the things that used to make our hearts pound out of their skeletal cages? Of course, I'm overly generalizing, but then again, when I look at some of my peers they are still out partying at the same clubs, hanging out with the same people while the other half are off happily (or unhappily) breeding like rabbits. I suppose it also comes down to effort, how much effort am I actually willing to put out to get dressed on a Friday night. Let's see, gas for spending two hours in a car (back and forth) $15, cover charge and drinks $40, comfort food after watching people dancing $20, severe blow to self-image PRICELESS. I'll just stay home and watch videos on Netflix.

Things are about to get a tad political in the next few weeks as Elections '08 comes around the corner...

There has been a lot of flack on Sarah Palin (and yes, of course my opinion of her should already be evident here, if not scroll down) in the media recently. Should you be surprised? No, not really. Why is she being put on the spotlight? Because of her seeming ignorance. Is she really or is it only "seemingly" so? I think she really is. Now, now, I'm not saying that she stupid, I'm sure that she's a fairly educated woman, but I also think that a well-versed political science college student would probably out-talk her any day of the week in terms of politics and policy. What's so bad about having a "Joe Six-Pack" like her in office? Well, considering all our problems with the economy, gay rights, women rights, international flare ups, don't you think it would just be better to have someone with more knowledge than that? Put it this way, if your car broke, would you rather have a mechanic fix it or some "Joe Six-Pack" from the street? If your partner had a heart attack, would you want a Biology major working on them or a cardiologist? I don't understand why she is so surprised that she is being given all this flack, DUH, the people don't want ANOTHER dumbass in office.