What I get out of what I had.

The highlights:


1. Sigma Psi Zeta
- Realized that I could really push my limits if I really wanted to
- Pros and cons list didn't work very well --> sometime it doesn't hurt to just do things without really knowing exactly what I get myself into. Taking a risk is a part of learning.
- I do need the company of people, almost all the time now and my sisters are really always there for me through good times and hard times.


2. Yola
- Working with the people who had inspired my study abroad dream was the best experience in my life
- My students were adorable and they reminded me of how I was few years ago. Helping them reminded me of why I am where I am right now.
- Work hard, play hard, never fail.


3. Summer in Vietnam
- People change, you do too, face with it, cuz it's a good thing.
- Nothing feels better than to enjoy life using what I've worked hard for (including spa, manicures, coffee shops, restaurants, beaches, gifts, …) --> should do the same thing in the future
- Nothing is better than home.


4. My lab job and independent study
- Gave me the feeling of being involved in some real research for the first time
- One step closer to my {dream} career


5. My guys
- Talented, smart, hard-working guys that keep me motivated (and proud)
- Nevertheless, they are chilled, relax, know how to have fun, very caring and considerate to girls, loyal to their friends --> being "the guy" of the group and having their company when I need them is the best I could get out of Rochester
- Never judge the book by its cover. These intimidating, gangster looking guys are sweethearts.


6. Shave my head
- New experiences are always worth it cuz you'll never know what you'll get.


The worst:


1. Flings are not very fun in the end
- Well, they would be fun if I can be even more cold-hearted than I am now, but that's not going to happen. Consequence is a bitch.
- Such a waste of my Christmas, and the entire summer
- 1 one super good friend --> that was a major mistake
- I get too carried on and can't get back on track --> need to learn how to work hard before play hard


2. I'm really not a genius, hard work is required
- I completely failed in Organic Chem
- Staying up all nights do not correlate with better results --> need to get back to my normal studying habit
- I don't have to be good at everything, but I can try hard in everything.


3. Social life is not everything, well at least when you're not a PR major
- It was fun, and I needed the company, but not everyone needs mine like I thought
- Try not to overestimate the importance of my existence towards some people, many of them don't give a damn
- Don't give a damn about others' business unless it's absolute necessary (like to my really good friends)
- Do not get too carried away with having fun and being comfortable and relaxed.


4. Family
- Partially the reason for all of these above to be able to happen was because I did not have enough communication with my parents this year --> parents always give good advice and keep us on track, LISTEN or not, at least TELL




Things that I've been doing and should keep doing


- Be determined that I can do things. Don't give up just because it seems like I can't do it.
- Be social. I can be a nerd and a social butterfly at the same time, no worries.
- Be creative. Art is a good way to relieve stress.
- Be healthy. Vegetarian diet was a good decision. Keep it up.
- Be positive. It's ok if I fail at something, but remember to learn from it, don't just laugh it off and forget about it.
- Post its of what to do on walls; add in post its of things that I've done.


Things that I've been doing and should STOP


- Being everywhere and doing everything at the same time; I'm not a super human, can't handle every club positions and keep a 4.0 GPA at the same time.
- Taking on too much work and overestimate my ability - doesn't prove that I'm smart, but on the other hand, kind of stupid - take things slowly, focus on one thing a time and do an amazing job at it.
- Flings - 3 or 4 guys at the same time takes time and effort (and money), try to cut some back, bad for my health mentally and physically
- Quit going to the gym cuz I'm afraid that my thighs will look big -; ugh, as much as I hate my thighs looking big, I didn't get sick as often and my abs is better looking with muscle than flat but with no muscle.
- Quit breaking down into panic attacks before exams - get the confidence together and get over it.


New Year Resolutions:


1. Keep my GPA above 3.8
2. Summer Internship
3. Study abroad
4. Go to the gym at least twice a week
5. A steady work + school + sleep schedule
6. Call home at least once a week
7. Be an active member of both Sigma and CSA
8. Keep a journal
9. No drinking 3 weeks in a row
10. 1 new and bizarre but meaningful experience.