Some Things Happening in the World of the Brain

This is a new research project recently launched at one of the colleges that I'm applying to. It's called the "Human Connectome Project". Think Human Genome Project, except in the brain. Scientists are mapping the brain and trying to find out what all the different connections mean and do. Very Interesting!

WUSTL Human Connectome Project

I've also become very interested in bipolar disorder, and I think that this image is a good descriptor of the illness.

What's New...

Since my last post, I have started working with my mentor at Laurelwood, and I have loved every minute of it. But I'm not sure love is exactly the right word to use to describe it. Seeing these patients are definitely those experiences that makes you realize how much you really do take for granted. I'm now incredibly grateful that I wake up every morning and have the motivation to get out of bed because some people simply don't. I'm grateful that my mind works correctly and I'm not dependent on others to do the simple things for me. But I think the one thing that my mentorship has done for me so far is just to encourage me that this is what I really want to do. I think I have found my niche in the world, and my mentorship has just solidified that. Prior to starting at Laurelwood, there was definitely fear that I would be so completely overwhelmed and realize that this was not at all anything for me. I'm so glad that's not the case.

On a lighter note, homecoming is quickly approaching here at North Hall, and as Student Council President the stress is getting a little more intense with each passing day. But I'm so grateful that I have an amazing council working with me to make this homecoming awesome. It's definitely going to be a night to remember.

Just last week, I finished all of my applications and submitted them: a HUGE relief. Now all I can do is wait to hear if I'm accepted or not, but at least my part is over. I still don't know where I want to go, but I do know that wherever I go will be a place that challenges me to step out of my comfort zone, and I eagerly anticipate leaving next fall.

So far, that's what's new in my life. Until next time...

My Mission Statement

My mission is to continually grow intellectually, physically, spiritually, and emotionally, and to encourage others to do the same. I aim to try my hardest at everything I do, and persevere until I have achieved far beyond the goals I set for myself.

Talk 20%. Listen 80%.

The "Getting to Know Your Mentor" sheet was very informative. Once again, it reiterated that I leave my cell phone off, and preferably in my car. I think this is an important tip to remember because I know that my mom has interviewed people for jobs, and they have looked at their phones during the interview! That was a huge turn off to her, and needless to say, they weren't hired. 
I was also reminded in the document to keep the focus on me, not on my friends and family. I know my mentor personally, so it will be hard to do this, but now that I am aware of this, I will try.
The podcast was also very informative. The part that stuck out to me was about not getting attached to the office gossip or slacker. TALK 20%, and LISTEN 80%. I also liked the part where it talked about dressing professionally, even if it is a casual day in the office because you never know when you might meet the CEO. 
There were plenty of other good points from the document and podcast, but these were the points that stuck out to me.
I'm looking forward to beginning my mentorship and implementing these new things I have learned!