An email from Christy Thomas noting my earlier post about the PPIA Junior Summer Institute at Princeton. Especially worth considering given our earlier post about the growing interest in professional degrees--and the costs involved:
It was interesting to see you feature the PPIA program at Princeton because I just finished a proposal to a Carnegie Mellon alum for our program. PPIA is actually affiliated with over 30 universities across the country, including Carnegie Mellon (www.ppiaprogram.org). And as an additional incentive, anyone who completes the PPIA summer institute (at either Carnegie Mellon or another member institution) could qualify for full tuition plus a stipend if they attend Carnegie Mellon for graduate school. So, just a plug for Carnegie Mellon and the opportunity to attend grad school for free! I’d be happy to talk with students about life in Pittsburgh and the Heinz School of Public Policy, where I’m currently completing my Masters in Public Management.
Best,
Christina Thomas
Director, Parents Leadership Program &
Major Gift Officer
Carnegie Mellon University
Monday, September 17, 2007
Jennifer Zinchuk '03 Talk on campus on Peace Corps
Next Wednesday Jennifer (Eidum) Zinchuk '03 will be the featured speaker on campus during the Peace Corps' fall presentation and information session. They will be around much of the day, but make certain to catch Jennifer's talk on her time in Ukraine if you have the chance. Here are the details:
Wednesday, Oct. 17
12 - 1 p.m.
Murray Board Room - Wheelock Student Center
Note: I had this misposted as this week--thanks to Jennifer for catching that.
Wednesday, Oct. 17
12 - 1 p.m.
Murray Board Room - Wheelock Student Center
Note: I had this misposted as this week--thanks to Jennifer for catching that.
Evan Updates
I few posts back I mentioned that I'd heard from Evan Howe '05 as he was finishing up his Peace Corps service in Niger. I asked him for a couple of paragraphs on his time, which was quite unfair as it's hard to sum up a Peace Corps experience in a few sentences. Here are his thoughts, along with one of the few pictures he has of his time there. Thanks to Evan and everyone else who regularly adds to our blog.
I recently completed 26 months as a Community, Youth and Education volunteer in Niger in West Africa. Before I arrived in Niger, I really had no idea what to expect. I had spent a semester in South Africa while at Puget Sound, but I figured that there would be a drastic difference between a large city like Cape Town and rural Niger. When we arrived in country we spent nine weeks in training living with a local host family. While I think we were relatively sheltered from what our real experience would be like, it still gave me glimpses into what everyday life would be like for the next two years.
My village consisted of about 3,500 people, located along a non-paved road that was not too enjoyable to travel upon, but was always interesting. I chose to focus my work on a number of smaller-scale projects with different counterparts as opposed to one "main project." My work focused on a wide variety of subjects dealing with themes ranging from those taken from practical health and hygiene skills to the importance of girls' education. The work I did took direction from what my villagers wanted and what I felt were the most pressing issues that needed to be addressed.
From the very beginning of my first year I jumped right into work, maybe a bit hastily. I spent the first year working with a counterpart who was incredibly overbearing, I felt like I needed to be present for every meeting, training, and anything that resembled work during my first year. Looking back I realize how ridiculous a notion that was. It took me a little while to realize that not every project was going to go according to schedule and that I needed to be a lot more flexible in my approach to work. By the second year I felt I was accomplishing just as much working on my own time and I did not feel stressed at all.
One of the greatest things about my Peace Corps service was my village. I formed incredible friendships and they treated me as one of their own. Like many volunteers, I feel that I'm taking away a lot more from my experience than I gave. I hope to maintain contact with my village and hopefully visit them sometime in the near future.
I recently completed 26 months as a Community, Youth and Education volunteer in Niger in West Africa. Before I arrived in Niger, I really had no idea what to expect. I had spent a semester in South Africa while at Puget Sound, but I figured that there would be a drastic difference between a large city like Cape Town and rural Niger. When we arrived in country we spent nine weeks in training living with a local host family. While I think we were relatively sheltered from what our real experience would be like, it still gave me glimpses into what everyday life would be like for the next two years.
My village consisted of about 3,500 people, located along a non-paved road that was not too enjoyable to travel upon, but was always interesting. I chose to focus my work on a number of smaller-scale projects with different counterparts as opposed to one "main project." My work focused on a wide variety of subjects dealing with themes ranging from those taken from practical health and hygiene skills to the importance of girls' education. The work I did took direction from what my villagers wanted and what I felt were the most pressing issues that needed to be addressed.
From the very beginning of my first year I jumped right into work, maybe a bit hastily. I spent the first year working with a counterpart who was incredibly overbearing, I felt like I needed to be present for every meeting, training, and anything that resembled work during my first year. Looking back I realize how ridiculous a notion that was. It took me a little while to realize that not every project was going to go according to schedule and that I needed to be a lot more flexible in my approach to work. By the second year I felt I was accomplishing just as much working on my own time and I did not feel stressed at all.
One of the greatest things about my Peace Corps service was my village. I formed incredible friendships and they treated me as one of their own. Like many volunteers, I feel that I'm taking away a lot more from my experience than I gave. I hope to maintain contact with my village and hopefully visit them sometime in the near future.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Master's degrees proliferate
Yesterday in class I was talking with our majors about the various kinds of professional degrees out there like MPPs and MPAs. As if on cue, an article in the New York Times on this very topic:
"More students than ever have started master’s programs this fall, and universities are seeing those programs as potentially lucrative sources of revenue. The number of students earning these degrees around the country has nearly doubled since 1980. Since 1970, the growth is 150 percent, more than twice as fast as bachelor and doctorate programs.
“Master’s programs are the most obvious targets of opportunity,” said George L. Mehaffy, a vice president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. “The degrees are in high demand, and this is an optimal time to enter or expand the market.”
For students, the degrees are often expensive; at private universities, many students take out $50,000 in loans for every year of school. And scholarships and fellowships are rare, unlike doctoral programs, which are usually fully financed by universities.
Still, many say the price is worth it..."
Read the whole piece here.
"More students than ever have started master’s programs this fall, and universities are seeing those programs as potentially lucrative sources of revenue. The number of students earning these degrees around the country has nearly doubled since 1980. Since 1970, the growth is 150 percent, more than twice as fast as bachelor and doctorate programs.
“Master’s programs are the most obvious targets of opportunity,” said George L. Mehaffy, a vice president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. “The degrees are in high demand, and this is an optimal time to enter or expand the market.”
For students, the degrees are often expensive; at private universities, many students take out $50,000 in loans for every year of school. And scholarships and fellowships are rare, unlike doctoral programs, which are usually fully financed by universities.
Still, many say the price is worth it..."
Read the whole piece here.
Friday Roundup of Opportunities
Don't forget the White House Internship Program that we posted yesterday as well.
In this post:
WOLA Sally Yudelman Internship, Washington, D.C.
WOLA's internship program is named after Sally Yudelman for her contribution and commitment to WOLA, human rights and democracy in Latin America. Through WOLA's Yudelman Internship Program we hope to provide unique mentoring opportunities to interns thereby encouraging the next generation of young people to become actors in the formation of U.S. foreign policy.
WOLA's Yudelman Internship Program works to give interns a broad exposure to the foreign policy-making process and aims to familiarize its interns with current events in Latin America through regular meetings with our staff and by attending NGO coalition meetings, congressional hearings, and other discussions and events. In addition, throughout the semester, interns will have a series of "brown bag" lunch discussions with representatives from ! different sectors that interact with the NGO world, such as foundation s, governments, and multilateral institutions. Upon arrival each intern is assigned to work with a WOLA Associate on one issue and will produce a detailed research project that meets the intern's interests and the Associate's needs. At the end of the semester, the results of the research project will be presented to WOLA's staff. One project will be selected and the intern will publish an article related to their project in WOLA's newsletter.
Applications to the WOLA's Yudelman Internship are three times each year- summer, fall and spring. WOLA selects seven interns per session. The internship is unpaid. During the fall and spring, interns are expected to work at least 24 hours each week. During the summer, they are expected to work 32 hours each week.
Approximately 65% of the internship is administrative in nature-answering telephones, faxing, copying, or working on a specific task (i.e. fulfilling orders for our many publications, helping to keep our website updated, monitoring the media). The reminder of the time is spent on the intern project or other substantive work.
Interested applicants should have a demonstrated interest in human rights, democracy and economic justice in Latin America; initiative and flexibility; the capability to work in a fast-paced environment; good organizational skills; follow-through and attention to detail. Spanish or Portuguese proficiency is strongly recommended.
Latin American and minority students are encouraged to apply. In general, the Yudelman Internship Program is not open to either graduate students or to students who have already graduated as they are generally looking for something more substantive in nature.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
In order to be considered for an internship, WOLA needs the following materials:
*a cover letter in which you state:
* that you understand the internship is unpaid
* your specific dates of availability
* your willingness to work at least 24 hours each week (32 if you are applying for a summer internship)
* why you want to intern at WOLA, an idea of your specific interests regarding Latin America, and your language abilities.
*a resume
*the names and telephone numbers of at least two references
*a short writing sample (no more than 2-3 pages) on a topic of your choice. It can be a paper you submitted for a class.
DEADLINES:
Spring internship (mid-January through May) November 15
Application materials should be addressed to the Intern Coordinator:
Kristina DeMain
Internship Recruitment Coordinator
1630 Connecticut Avenue, NW Floor 2
Washington, D.C. 20009
InternApp@wola.org
Stimson Center- Communications Associate- Washington, D.C.
The Henry L. Stimson Center, a nonprofit public policy institute committed to finding and promoting practical, innovative solutions to security challenges, seeks a full-time, experienced communications associate will support the planning and implementation of communications and outreach activities at the programmatic and institutional levels.
Major responsibilities
o Assist with the planning, implementation and coordination of communications activities
o Monitor outreach timelines
o Draft written materials including press releases, promotional materials, proposals and policy briefs
o Coordinate media outreach including mass mailings, fax blasts and information requests
o Assist with the maintenance of the website--writing and editing content; preparing reports on defined usage metrics; and coordinating specific website initiatives
o Maintain organizational and media lists--coordinate with research and administration project teams to ensure data integrity
o Review Stimson products against institutional design and editorial standards to ensure consistency and clarity
o Coordinate logistics for meetings, press conferences, seminars and other special events
o Research and assess new communications tools
o Track Stimson's media and other outreach efforts--maintain files and prepare reports on presscoverage, testimony, speeches and presentations
o Coordinate marketing and sale of Stimson books including vendor relations, inventory management, and paid advertising
The above specified tasks may not be the only duties assigned. Employees may be required to carry out other job-related tasks as requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodations.
QUALIFICATIONS
* Required: Bachelors degree and 2-3 years experience or equivalent education.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to email a resume, cover letter, salary requirements and references to resume@stimson.org. Please indicate "Communications Associate" in the subject line of all correspondence.
The Henry L. Stimson Center is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds. The Center provides competitive compensation and an exceptional package of benefits.
UN Foundation- The People Speak Intern- Washington, D.C.
The United Nations Foundation (UNF) and the Better World Fund (BWF) were established in 1998 to administer Ted Turner's unprecedented gift of $1 billion in the service of global causes. UNF exists to promote the well-being of the global population, the responsible stewardship and preservation of the world's climate and essential ecosystems, the protection of human rights, and peaceful coexistence by strengthening the United Nations as a vehicle for promoting international cooperation. To achieve its objectives, UNF provides grants to UN agencies, funds, and programs for work in the areas of population, children's health, the environment, and peace, security, and human rights. BWF complements the work of UNF through support of selected programs designed to strengthen the relationship between the United States and the United Nations.
THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
. To provide a framework by which graduate and post-graduate students from diverse academic backgrounds can utilize their theoretical knowledge in practical work assignments;
. To expose students to the work of the UN and to encourage them to consider careers in the UN or UN related causes, and;
. To aid the UNF in achieving its mission.
OVERALL FORMAT OF THE PROGRAM
. UNF hosts a semester long internship program during the Fall, Spring, and Summer school sessions.
. The UNF offers full and part-time paid and unpaid internships. The number of each kind of internship offered will depend on the needs of the various departments.
. Intern duties and responsibilities will vary according to the assignment.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
This position supports The People Speak (TPS), an educational campaign to inspire young people on the global issues that will shape their future. This year, TPS is organizing a series of grass roots high school activities called the Global Debates and two college mini grant programs called Buzz Cuts and Climate Crews. The position will report to the Director of The People Speak. General Responsibilities include:
. Coordinating Global Debates - This position will support over 2,000 high schools participating in the Global Debates. This includes helping schools document activities to accumulate points, tracking activities by schools, assisting high school students and teachers plan a public debate in their school, and other support as needed.
. Conducting Outreach - Researching youth organizations and providing outreach materials about TPS to interested parties. Outreach will also occur through online platforms, such as Facebook and MySpace, among others.
. Administrative Support - Assists with large mailings and outreach projects and helps with UNF-sponsored special events.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The following criterion is used to determine eligibility for the Internship Program:
. Applicants should be enrolled in a degree-granting program in an undergraduate or graduate school during the internship.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
. Requirements (only completed packages will be considered)
o Current résumé or curriculum vitae; and
o Cover letter addressed to Intern Administrator stating your purpose for obtaining this internship and your skills and experiences related to the general responsiblities.
How to apply
Visit the following site: http://www.unfoundation.org
o Select "Public Affairs" from the Department drop down menu.
o Only electronic applications will be accepted.
MoveOn- Rising Stars Fellow, DC
Salary: Equivalent of $50,000 / year
Description:
MoveOn is starting a fellowship program, to give talented up-and-comers a chance to work on the biggest issues in the progressive movement. Rising stars of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for this 5-month, full-time, paid
position.
Details or to apply: http://www.moveon.org/fellowship
MoveOn Fellows will work alongside our top campaigners to end the war in Iraq, stop the climate crisis, win the '08 election and make their mark on other high-profile issues.
The program will start with a dozen finalists coming together for an intimate, behind-the-scenes crash course in MoveOn's strategies and tactics. After this two-day intensive, up to four Fellows will have the opportunity to remain at MoveOn for
in a five-month, full-time, paid position.
Each Fellow will have a one-on-one mentoring relationship with a senior
MoveOn staffer. Fellows will have opportunities to launch their own projects and work with the team to test new ideas in online and off-line organizing. MoveOn will assist
Fellows in searching for jobs in the progressive movement -- possibly
within MoveOn itself.
We are looking for a diverse group of applicants, united by their passion for
a more progressive America. We don't care if you've spent years working for progressive organizations or if you haven't even finished school. How you got here
isn't important; where you're going is.
The first Fellowship training course will begin Friday, Oct 12. Applications
will be accepted until Sept 21. For more details, go to http://www.moveon.org/fellowship
Visit http://pol.moveon.org/fellowship to apply. No followup calls or email, please!
Tags:
In this post:
- WOLA Sally Yudelman Internship, Washington, D.C.
- Stimson Center- Communications Associate- Washington, D.C.
- UN Foundation- The People Speak Intern- Washington, D.C.
- MoveOn- Rising Stars Fellow, DC
WOLA Sally Yudelman Internship, Washington, D.C.
WOLA's internship program is named after Sally Yudelman for her contribution and commitment to WOLA, human rights and democracy in Latin America. Through WOLA's Yudelman Internship Program we hope to provide unique mentoring opportunities to interns thereby encouraging the next generation of young people to become actors in the formation of U.S. foreign policy.
WOLA's Yudelman Internship Program works to give interns a broad exposure to the foreign policy-making process and aims to familiarize its interns with current events in Latin America through regular meetings with our staff and by attending NGO coalition meetings, congressional hearings, and other discussions and events. In addition, throughout the semester, interns will have a series of "brown bag" lunch discussions with representatives from ! different sectors that interact with the NGO world, such as foundation s, governments, and multilateral institutions. Upon arrival each intern is assigned to work with a WOLA Associate on one issue and will produce a detailed research project that meets the intern's interests and the Associate's needs. At the end of the semester, the results of the research project will be presented to WOLA's staff. One project will be selected and the intern will publish an article related to their project in WOLA's newsletter.
Applications to the WOLA's Yudelman Internship are three times each year- summer, fall and spring. WOLA selects seven interns per session. The internship is unpaid. During the fall and spring, interns are expected to work at least 24 hours each week. During the summer, they are expected to work 32 hours each week.
Approximately 65% of the internship is administrative in nature-answering telephones, faxing, copying, or working on a specific task (i.e. fulfilling orders for our many publications, helping to keep our website updated, monitoring the media). The reminder of the time is spent on the intern project or other substantive work.
Interested applicants should have a demonstrated interest in human rights, democracy and economic justice in Latin America; initiative and flexibility; the capability to work in a fast-paced environment; good organizational skills; follow-through and attention to detail. Spanish or Portuguese proficiency is strongly recommended.
Latin American and minority students are encouraged to apply. In general, the Yudelman Internship Program is not open to either graduate students or to students who have already graduated as they are generally looking for something more substantive in nature.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
In order to be considered for an internship, WOLA needs the following materials:
*a cover letter in which you state:
* that you understand the internship is unpaid
* your specific dates of availability
* your willingness to work at least 24 hours each week (32 if you are applying for a summer internship)
* why you want to intern at WOLA, an idea of your specific interests regarding Latin America, and your language abilities.
*a resume
*the names and telephone numbers of at least two references
*a short writing sample (no more than 2-3 pages) on a topic of your choice. It can be a paper you submitted for a class.
DEADLINES:
Spring internship (mid-January through May) November 15
Application materials should be addressed to the Intern Coordinator:
Kristina DeMain
Internship Recruitment Coordinator
1630 Connecticut Avenue, NW Floor 2
Washington, D.C. 20009
InternApp@wola.org
Stimson Center- Communications Associate- Washington, D.C.
The Henry L. Stimson Center, a nonprofit public policy institute committed to finding and promoting practical, innovative solutions to security challenges, seeks a full-time, experienced communications associate will support the planning and implementation of communications and outreach activities at the programmatic and institutional levels.
Major responsibilities
o Assist with the planning, implementation and coordination of communications activities
o Monitor outreach timelines
o Draft written materials including press releases, promotional materials, proposals and policy briefs
o Coordinate media outreach including mass mailings, fax blasts and information requests
o Assist with the maintenance of the website--writing and editing content; preparing reports on defined usage metrics; and coordinating specific website initiatives
o Maintain organizational and media lists--coordinate with research and administration project teams to ensure data integrity
o Review Stimson products against institutional design and editorial standards to ensure consistency and clarity
o Coordinate logistics for meetings, press conferences, seminars and other special events
o Research and assess new communications tools
o Track Stimson's media and other outreach efforts--maintain files and prepare reports on presscoverage, testimony, speeches and presentations
o Coordinate marketing and sale of Stimson books including vendor relations, inventory management, and paid advertising
The above specified tasks may not be the only duties assigned. Employees may be required to carry out other job-related tasks as requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodations.
QUALIFICATIONS
* Required: Bachelors degree and 2-3 years experience or equivalent education.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to email a resume, cover letter, salary requirements and references to resume@stimson.org. Please indicate "Communications Associate" in the subject line of all correspondence.
The Henry L. Stimson Center is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds. The Center provides competitive compensation and an exceptional package of benefits.
UN Foundation- The People Speak Intern- Washington, D.C.
The United Nations Foundation (UNF) and the Better World Fund (BWF) were established in 1998 to administer Ted Turner's unprecedented gift of $1 billion in the service of global causes. UNF exists to promote the well-being of the global population, the responsible stewardship and preservation of the world's climate and essential ecosystems, the protection of human rights, and peaceful coexistence by strengthening the United Nations as a vehicle for promoting international cooperation. To achieve its objectives, UNF provides grants to UN agencies, funds, and programs for work in the areas of population, children's health, the environment, and peace, security, and human rights. BWF complements the work of UNF through support of selected programs designed to strengthen the relationship between the United States and the United Nations.
THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
. To provide a framework by which graduate and post-graduate students from diverse academic backgrounds can utilize their theoretical knowledge in practical work assignments;
. To expose students to the work of the UN and to encourage them to consider careers in the UN or UN related causes, and;
. To aid the UNF in achieving its mission.
OVERALL FORMAT OF THE PROGRAM
. UNF hosts a semester long internship program during the Fall, Spring, and Summer school sessions.
. The UNF offers full and part-time paid and unpaid internships. The number of each kind of internship offered will depend on the needs of the various departments.
. Intern duties and responsibilities will vary according to the assignment.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
This position supports The People Speak (TPS), an educational campaign to inspire young people on the global issues that will shape their future. This year, TPS is organizing a series of grass roots high school activities called the Global Debates and two college mini grant programs called Buzz Cuts and Climate Crews. The position will report to the Director of The People Speak. General Responsibilities include:
. Coordinating Global Debates - This position will support over 2,000 high schools participating in the Global Debates. This includes helping schools document activities to accumulate points, tracking activities by schools, assisting high school students and teachers plan a public debate in their school, and other support as needed.
. Conducting Outreach - Researching youth organizations and providing outreach materials about TPS to interested parties. Outreach will also occur through online platforms, such as Facebook and MySpace, among others.
. Administrative Support - Assists with large mailings and outreach projects and helps with UNF-sponsored special events.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The following criterion is used to determine eligibility for the Internship Program:
. Applicants should be enrolled in a degree-granting program in an undergraduate or graduate school during the internship.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
. Requirements (only completed packages will be considered)
o Current résumé or curriculum vitae; and
o Cover letter addressed to Intern Administrator stating your purpose for obtaining this internship and your skills and experiences related to the general responsiblities.
How to apply
Visit the following site: http://www.unfoundation.org
o Select "Public Affairs" from the Department drop down menu.
o Only electronic applications will be accepted.
MoveOn- Rising Stars Fellow, DC
Salary: Equivalent of $50,000 / year
Description:
MoveOn is starting a fellowship program, to give talented up-and-comers a chance to work on the biggest issues in the progressive movement. Rising stars of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply for this 5-month, full-time, paid
position.
Details or to apply: http://www.moveon.org/fellowship
MoveOn Fellows will work alongside our top campaigners to end the war in Iraq, stop the climate crisis, win the '08 election and make their mark on other high-profile issues.
The program will start with a dozen finalists coming together for an intimate, behind-the-scenes crash course in MoveOn's strategies and tactics. After this two-day intensive, up to four Fellows will have the opportunity to remain at MoveOn for
in a five-month, full-time, paid position.
Each Fellow will have a one-on-one mentoring relationship with a senior
MoveOn staffer. Fellows will have opportunities to launch their own projects and work with the team to test new ideas in online and off-line organizing. MoveOn will assist
Fellows in searching for jobs in the progressive movement -- possibly
within MoveOn itself.
We are looking for a diverse group of applicants, united by their passion for
a more progressive America. We don't care if you've spent years working for progressive organizations or if you haven't even finished school. How you got here
isn't important; where you're going is.
The first Fellowship training course will begin Friday, Oct 12. Applications
will be accepted until Sept 21. For more details, go to http://www.moveon.org/fellowship
Visit http://pol.moveon.org/fellowship to apply. No followup calls or email, please!
Tags:
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Alums: We need your advice!
I'm currently teaching PG 250, which is the department's course on writing and research. It's also a good place for us to get majors together at an early stage in their degree to talk about maximizing their education and about life after graduation.
To that end, I'm hoping I might call upon our alums to share their wisdom with us about life after UPS. What exact form this might take isn't set in place, but I am thinking about having alums give their advice and thoughts in response to particular issues or questions that the students would provide. So we might generate a range of questions, and alums could give their thoughts to whatever questions and to whatever extent they saw fit.
In the near future I will contact some of you directly to ask for your participation, but I'd like to reach out to all of our alums, many of whom I don't know. If you are willing to help guide our majors, would you be so kind as to drop me an email at poneil@ups.edu?
Thanks in advance for all our alums have done in making our program and university a great place to teach.
To that end, I'm hoping I might call upon our alums to share their wisdom with us about life after UPS. What exact form this might take isn't set in place, but I am thinking about having alums give their advice and thoughts in response to particular issues or questions that the students would provide. So we might generate a range of questions, and alums could give their thoughts to whatever questions and to whatever extent they saw fit.
In the near future I will contact some of you directly to ask for your participation, but I'd like to reach out to all of our alums, many of whom I don't know. If you are willing to help guide our majors, would you be so kind as to drop me an email at poneil@ups.edu?
Thanks in advance for all our alums have done in making our program and university a great place to teach.
White House Internship Program
I just got a reminder from Sam Stookesberry '09 that the deadline for the White House Internship Program is fast approaching. Sam reminded me of it because he did an internship there last summer, so if anyone has any questions about what the program is like Sam is a good resource. Even if you're not interested in doing it in spring, they accept interns for the summer so there's lots of lead time. I asked Sam to write up a short blurb on his experience, and I'll blog that in the near future.
Update Here's Sam's thoughts on the internship:
This summer I was an intern in the White House office of Records Management. As the name implies, our office was responsible for handling all of the administration’s documents. The duties of an intern vary greatly depending on the office within the White House, and I did everything from filing, copying, and data entry to reading and proofing outgoing presidential correspondence. Getting an inside look at how the government runs at the highest level was awesome and a great learning experience. Probably the best part about the internship is the speaker series put on for the interns. We had about 10 speakers over the summer including the Chief of Staff to the President, The Secretary of the Treasury, Karl Rove, and The President, all of whom were amazing. Living in D.C. was exciting, but age (21 or not) will probably have a significant impact on your experience. Overall interning at the White House was a lot of work but a great summer, and I’d be happy to talk with anybody interested in doing it. My email is sstookesberry@ups.edu
Update Here's Sam's thoughts on the internship:
This summer I was an intern in the White House office of Records Management. As the name implies, our office was responsible for handling all of the administration’s documents. The duties of an intern vary greatly depending on the office within the White House, and I did everything from filing, copying, and data entry to reading and proofing outgoing presidential correspondence. Getting an inside look at how the government runs at the highest level was awesome and a great learning experience. Probably the best part about the internship is the speaker series put on for the interns. We had about 10 speakers over the summer including the Chief of Staff to the President, The Secretary of the Treasury, Karl Rove, and The President, all of whom were amazing. Living in D.C. was exciting, but age (21 or not) will probably have a significant impact on your experience. Overall interning at the White House was a lot of work but a great summer, and I’d be happy to talk with anybody interested in doing it. My email is sstookesberry@ups.edu
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
There is Fred Ross '86
A recent email from Fred Ross '86. Alums, especially those who remember Fred, do drop him a line at his blog. Fred's blog is a great read (I can't imagine driving from Portland to Central America) and he's got an excellent Flickr site with pictures as well.
Professor O'Neil,
I have perused a few of the blogs you have sent over the past year. I´m new to the blog world having just started one myself in the last few months. Is there a way for me to place a post on your blog to perhaps make contact with fellow UPS students from the past or students involved in similar endeavors as myself right now?
I recently ended my career of 17 years as a Realtor in Portland, Oregon. It was a good 17 years but I want to do something different. I am currently driving through Central and South America learning Spanish and enjoying myself but ultimately looking to find work with an NGO doing humanitarian aid work.
Presently I am in Leon, Nicaragua in my third week of immersion classes. From here I will be heading to Colombia for another 4 weeks of immersion. Then I´m meeting friends to hike the Inka Trail, camp in Patagonia, enjoy Buenos Aires, etc. etc.
I have a blog for friends to keep track of me at
whereisfred.wordpress.com.
Other than when friends meet me along the way I´m making this journey alone and would love to make contacts with other people associated with the univeristy, past and present. I´m also looking for any contacts with different relief and aid organizations. I´m especially interested in Nicaragua (I studied this country at UPS in the 80´s)and Bolivia.
Best,
Fred Ross ´86
Professor O'Neil,
I have perused a few of the blogs you have sent over the past year. I´m new to the blog world having just started one myself in the last few months. Is there a way for me to place a post on your blog to perhaps make contact with fellow UPS students from the past or students involved in similar endeavors as myself right now?
I recently ended my career of 17 years as a Realtor in Portland, Oregon. It was a good 17 years but I want to do something different. I am currently driving through Central and South America learning Spanish and enjoying myself but ultimately looking to find work with an NGO doing humanitarian aid work.
Presently I am in Leon, Nicaragua in my third week of immersion classes. From here I will be heading to Colombia for another 4 weeks of immersion. Then I´m meeting friends to hike the Inka Trail, camp in Patagonia, enjoy Buenos Aires, etc. etc.
I have a blog for friends to keep track of me at
whereisfred.wordpress.com.
Other than when friends meet me along the way I´m making this journey alone and would love to make contacts with other people associated with the univeristy, past and present. I´m also looking for any contacts with different relief and aid organizations. I´m especially interested in Nicaragua (I studied this country at UPS in the 80´s)and Bolivia.
Best,
Fred Ross ´86
Junior Summer Institute at Princeton
This is a great opportunity for any of our juniors with an interest in public policy and international affairs. Each student enrolled in the Summer Institute is fully funded and receives financial support for the total cost. Deadline is November 1. Come see me if you have any questions.
PPIA Junior Summer Institute at Princeton
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute at Princeton University has been an important part of the fabric of the Woodrow Wilson School for over 20 years. While the program's name and admissions criteria have changed over the years, the School has never wavered in its commitment to prepare a diverse cadre of professionals for careers in public service, particularly in those areas of government related to foreign affairs. Past and future participants, therefore, represent a variety of backgrounds and perspectives similar to the national and international communities in which they hope to serve.
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute at Princeton University has been an important part of the fabric of the Woodrow Wilson School for over 20 years. While the program's name and admissions criteria have changed over the years, the School has never wavered in its commitment to prepare a diverse cadre of professionals for careers in public service, particularly in those areas of government related to foreign affairs. Past and future participants, therefore, represent a variety of backgrounds and perspectives similar to the national and international communities in which they hope to serve.
This goal has given us a clear vision of what students will gain from attending our summer program. First, they will become friends with a group of extremely talented students from colleges and universities all over the country. These colleagues will be impressive academically, and more importantly, they will be culturally aware, socially sensitive, committed to public service, and they will share a common vision about making the world a better place.
Second, students will be exposed to the various tools that they will need to become effective policy practitioners, including critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, memo writing, and oral presentation skills. They will also engage in curricular and extracurricular activities that are designed to teach and strengthen their cross-cultural competence in making and implementing policy--because navigating across cultural boundaries and being sensitive to one's own culture (real and perceived) are key elements of policymaking in our rapidly changing world.
Third, students will explore a broad range of interesting public policy issues and expand their horizons regarding career options. We challenge students by bringing in a range of public policy practitioners and academics to speak about careers in public affairs and cutting-edge research. Throughout the summer, students find themselves sitting around the table with high-level policy professionals discussing the issues of the day, while at the same time building a solid foundation for graduate study.
Ultimately, we offer a program that is challenging to those at all skill levels and that will increase students' interests in pursuing a career in public or international affairs and will prepare them for entrance into graduate school. We believe that our summer institute is a springboard to an exciting future and will give participants an opportunity to fashion a career consistent with their passions.
We hope that you will choose to be a part of the group of successful alumni who have made their start in the PPIA Junior Summer Institute. Thank you for your interest in our program.
Tags:
PPIA Junior Summer Institute at Princeton
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute at Princeton University has been an important part of the fabric of the Woodrow Wilson School for over 20 years. While the program's name and admissions criteria have changed over the years, the School has never wavered in its commitment to prepare a diverse cadre of professionals for careers in public service, particularly in those areas of government related to foreign affairs. Past and future participants, therefore, represent a variety of backgrounds and perspectives similar to the national and international communities in which they hope to serve.
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute at Princeton University has been an important part of the fabric of the Woodrow Wilson School for over 20 years. While the program's name and admissions criteria have changed over the years, the School has never wavered in its commitment to prepare a diverse cadre of professionals for careers in public service, particularly in those areas of government related to foreign affairs. Past and future participants, therefore, represent a variety of backgrounds and perspectives similar to the national and international communities in which they hope to serve.
This goal has given us a clear vision of what students will gain from attending our summer program. First, they will become friends with a group of extremely talented students from colleges and universities all over the country. These colleagues will be impressive academically, and more importantly, they will be culturally aware, socially sensitive, committed to public service, and they will share a common vision about making the world a better place.
Second, students will be exposed to the various tools that they will need to become effective policy practitioners, including critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, memo writing, and oral presentation skills. They will also engage in curricular and extracurricular activities that are designed to teach and strengthen their cross-cultural competence in making and implementing policy--because navigating across cultural boundaries and being sensitive to one's own culture (real and perceived) are key elements of policymaking in our rapidly changing world.
Third, students will explore a broad range of interesting public policy issues and expand their horizons regarding career options. We challenge students by bringing in a range of public policy practitioners and academics to speak about careers in public affairs and cutting-edge research. Throughout the summer, students find themselves sitting around the table with high-level policy professionals discussing the issues of the day, while at the same time building a solid foundation for graduate study.
Ultimately, we offer a program that is challenging to those at all skill levels and that will increase students' interests in pursuing a career in public or international affairs and will prepare them for entrance into graduate school. We believe that our summer institute is a springboard to an exciting future and will give participants an opportunity to fashion a career consistent with their passions.
We hope that you will choose to be a part of the group of successful alumni who have made their start in the PPIA Junior Summer Institute. Thank you for your interest in our program.
Tags:
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Katie Callaghan '03 to AU in DC
We got word from Katie Callaghan '03 the other day. After graduation Katie went on Peace Corps, like so many of our graduates, and was based in a village in Panama (the stories she told were something else). This fall Katie began graduate school at American University in their International Development Program.
She writes: "in addition to classes, I'm working at the Academy on Human Rights at the American University Washington College of Law where my official role is to help coordinate a Human Rights Summer Program that they do each May-June. They offer classes in both Spanish and English on topics related to Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (mainly focusing on Latin America) and bring in professors and speakers from all over the globe who work with or study Human Rights. There are people from different European and Latin American universities as well as directors from programs like the United Nations Development Programme."
Katie says classes are going well and that she likes the program. Another educational option for PG students who might be thinking about graduate school down the road.
Best wishes for grad school, Katie, and we look forward to hearing more about the program.
Tags:
She writes: "in addition to classes, I'm working at the Academy on Human Rights at the American University Washington College of Law where my official role is to help coordinate a Human Rights Summer Program that they do each May-June. They offer classes in both Spanish and English on topics related to Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (mainly focusing on Latin America) and bring in professors and speakers from all over the globe who work with or study Human Rights. There are people from different European and Latin American universities as well as directors from programs like the United Nations Development Programme."
Katie says classes are going well and that she likes the program. Another educational option for PG students who might be thinking about graduate school down the road.
Best wishes for grad school, Katie, and we look forward to hearing more about the program.
Tags:
Evan Howe '05; Peace Corps ends, Latin America Calls
An email from PG alum Evan Howe '05, who is finishing up his Peace Corps work in Niger:
My service has gone by rather quickly but it has certainly been an experience. It was difficult to leave my village, but I also feel that it's time for something new and different. It looks like I'm going to follow through with my plan to travel around South America after my service, so I'll be headed to Brazil and a few other countries until January. I've been attempting to study a little Portuguese and Spanish, but I don't think it's been going that well. Hopefully by the time I get there it will decent enough that i can communicate basic things. I leave next week.
When I return to the U.S. I have been thinking of moving to Washington D.C. to try to get a entry-level job at a law firm, with the hopes of doing that until the summer and applying for inner-city teaching positions in the fall of 2008. Working in the educational system in Niger has given me the motivation to continue to work with youth upon my return. Although I imagine it's going to be a completely different experience. So we will see how that goes.
I hope that all is well in Tacoma and you have a nice semester. I will do my best to send a picture for your blog, I'm trying to catch up with some of the entries over the last few months, sounds like you are all keeping quite busy. Please say hello to all in the P&G department for me.
We are looking forward to hearing more about Evan's time in Niger--and indeed, from any of our alums out there. Send us a note, let us know how you are doing.
My service has gone by rather quickly but it has certainly been an experience. It was difficult to leave my village, but I also feel that it's time for something new and different. It looks like I'm going to follow through with my plan to travel around South America after my service, so I'll be headed to Brazil and a few other countries until January. I've been attempting to study a little Portuguese and Spanish, but I don't think it's been going that well. Hopefully by the time I get there it will decent enough that i can communicate basic things. I leave next week.
When I return to the U.S. I have been thinking of moving to Washington D.C. to try to get a entry-level job at a law firm, with the hopes of doing that until the summer and applying for inner-city teaching positions in the fall of 2008. Working in the educational system in Niger has given me the motivation to continue to work with youth upon my return. Although I imagine it's going to be a completely different experience. So we will see how that goes.
I hope that all is well in Tacoma and you have a nice semester. I will do my best to send a picture for your blog, I'm trying to catch up with some of the entries over the last few months, sounds like you are all keeping quite busy. Please say hello to all in the P&G department for me.
We are looking forward to hearing more about Evan's time in Niger--and indeed, from any of our alums out there. Send us a note, let us know how you are doing.
Monday, September 10, 2007
International Youth Leadership Conference, Prague
Some interesting things on offer, and hey, it's Prague for the holidays--
This email brings you information on an interesting educational opportunity, the 15th International Youth Leadership Conference, which is to be held January 6-11th, 2008 in Prague, the Czech Republic. I am the Conference Director of the 15th International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC) and I would like to make sure that your students are informed about this unique international conference.
The 15th IYLC will be welcoming 130 top university students from around the world. As we are now accepting applications online, we would very much appreciate your help with spreading this information. We will soon send you a package with posters and further details, but for now I am sending you, and your students, the following information.
The theme of the conference is “a cross-cultural exchange of ideas concerning the future of world leadership” and the main objective of the IYLC is to blend educational activities and social interaction using a number of inter-related events:
A United Nations Security Council Crisis simulation
A mock International Criminal Court pre-trial
Model Parliament proceedings
Visits to Foreign Embassies, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Czech Senates Panel Discussion and Presentations led by speakers of the highest caliber in their fields.
To view a draft schedule of events for the winter session please view: http://czechleadership.com/itinerary.php and you are also invited to visit our website at www.czechleadership.com for further details.
To view the Student Invitation Letter, which could potentially be forwarded to your students, please view: http://czechleadership.com/invitation-letter.pdf
For students who apply early, we have a special ‘Early Bird’ discount, worth 100 EUR. For more information please check our website.
Please let me know if you, or your students, have any questions.
I will be looking forward to hearing from you.
With best regards from Prague,
Katarina Olsova
katarina@civicconcepts.org
Conference Director - 15th International Youth Leadership Conference
Civic Concepts International
www.czechleadership.com
tel: +420 272 730 897
This email brings you information on an interesting educational opportunity, the 15th International Youth Leadership Conference, which is to be held January 6-11th, 2008 in Prague, the Czech Republic. I am the Conference Director of the 15th International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC) and I would like to make sure that your students are informed about this unique international conference.
The 15th IYLC will be welcoming 130 top university students from around the world. As we are now accepting applications online, we would very much appreciate your help with spreading this information. We will soon send you a package with posters and further details, but for now I am sending you, and your students, the following information.
The theme of the conference is “a cross-cultural exchange of ideas concerning the future of world leadership” and the main objective of the IYLC is to blend educational activities and social interaction using a number of inter-related events:
A United Nations Security Council Crisis simulation
A mock International Criminal Court pre-trial
Model Parliament proceedings
Visits to Foreign Embassies, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Czech Senates Panel Discussion and Presentations led by speakers of the highest caliber in their fields.
To view a draft schedule of events for the winter session please view: http://czechleadership.com/itinerary.php and you are also invited to visit our website at www.czechleadership.com for further details.
To view the Student Invitation Letter, which could potentially be forwarded to your students, please view: http://czechleadership.com/invitation-letter.pdf
For students who apply early, we have a special ‘Early Bird’ discount, worth 100 EUR. For more information please check our website.
Please let me know if you, or your students, have any questions.
I will be looking forward to hearing from you.
With best regards from Prague,
Katarina Olsova
katarina@civicconcepts.org
Conference Director - 15th International Youth Leadership Conference
Civic Concepts International
www.czechleadership.com
tel: +420 272 730 897
NYT...U?
From Inside Higher Ed:
The New York Times on Thursday announced a major push into higher education — with new efforts to provide distance education, course content and social networking. A number of colleges are already either committed to using the new technologies or are in negotiations to start doing so, evidence of the strong power of the Times brand in academe...
In distance education, the Times will be providing technology and marketing for non-credit courses taught by college and university professors. Funds from tuition revenue will be split (with the precise formula varying) between the colleges and the Times. Among the institutions that are already part of the effort are Mount Holyoke College; New York, Northern Kentucky, Stanford and Towson Universities; and the Society for College and University Planning. Felice Nudelman, director of education for the Times, said that the list would soon grow significantly. She said that the emphasis would be on having a range of institutions and a range of high quality programs. Tuition rates are set by the colleges — in some cases with in-state and out-of-state rates.
Here's the link to the NYT site.
The New York Times on Thursday announced a major push into higher education — with new efforts to provide distance education, course content and social networking. A number of colleges are already either committed to using the new technologies or are in negotiations to start doing so, evidence of the strong power of the Times brand in academe...
In distance education, the Times will be providing technology and marketing for non-credit courses taught by college and university professors. Funds from tuition revenue will be split (with the precise formula varying) between the colleges and the Times. Among the institutions that are already part of the effort are Mount Holyoke College; New York, Northern Kentucky, Stanford and Towson Universities; and the Society for College and University Planning. Felice Nudelman, director of education for the Times, said that the list would soon grow significantly. She said that the emphasis would be on having a range of institutions and a range of high quality programs. Tuition rates are set by the colleges — in some cases with in-state and out-of-state rates.
Here's the link to the NYT site.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Campaign 2008: Issue Tracker
The Washington Post has set up an "Issue Coverage Tracker" for the Presidential campaign:
Washingtonpost.com today announced the release of the "Issue
Coverage Tracker," a new application that compares the volume of press
coverage between candidates and the major issues of the 2008
presidential race. Featured on washingtonpost.com, the application is
being made freely available for distribution to any user's website.
Developed by Daylife, a news distribution platform that analyzes and
organizes news coverage from thousands of sources, the "Issue Coverage
Tracker" has a compelling graphic presentation that is fun and
easy-to-use.
The application, which features an interactive display designed to
encourage participation, provides a unique lens on election news,
allowing users to customize their experience by candidate or topic,
ranging from abortion to health care to the war in Iraq. Drawing
information from thousands of news and opinion sources, the "Issue
Coverage Tracker" provides a quick visual scale of coverage between
candidates and the issues, allowing a user to:
* select a candidate and view the issues related to that candidate
* select an issue and view the candidates who focus on that issue
* expand or limit the coverage timetable
* customize the application to default to a particular candidate
It's has a nice interface from the little that I've played with it. Worth a peruse--
Washingtonpost.com today announced the release of the "Issue
Coverage Tracker," a new application that compares the volume of press
coverage between candidates and the major issues of the 2008
presidential race. Featured on washingtonpost.com, the application is
being made freely available for distribution to any user's website.
Developed by Daylife, a news distribution platform that analyzes and
organizes news coverage from thousands of sources, the "Issue Coverage
Tracker" has a compelling graphic presentation that is fun and
easy-to-use.
The application, which features an interactive display designed to
encourage participation, provides a unique lens on election news,
allowing users to customize their experience by candidate or topic,
ranging from abortion to health care to the war in Iraq. Drawing
information from thousands of news and opinion sources, the "Issue
Coverage Tracker" provides a quick visual scale of coverage between
candidates and the issues, allowing a user to:
* select a candidate and view the issues related to that candidate
* select an issue and view the candidates who focus on that issue
* expand or limit the coverage timetable
* customize the application to default to a particular candidate
It's has a nice interface from the little that I've played with it. Worth a peruse--
Watson Fellowship Workshop
This in from Professor Joshi, our university's faculty Watson coordinator. Last year three UPS students were awarded Watson Fellowships, which is an extraordinarily high number, including PG major Zorba Leslie. Read on:
Please announce in your upper division classes the following two informational meetings for students who are interested in applying for the Watson Fellowship this year:
Wed, Sept 12, 4-5:30 pm in Wyatt 208
or
Thurs, Sept 13, 5:30-7 pm in Wyatt 208
Any interested students are welcome to attend, although given the timeline, this meeting will likely be most pertinent to seniors who are considering applying this year (the deadline is Fri, Oct 5th). For juniors and other lower-division students, I run several additional meetings in the spring.
A Few Words about the Watson Fellowship: The Watson is a highly competitive and prestigious national fellowship that provides students with a $25,000 grant to pursue a year of travel outside the United States. Fellows develop innovative projects that take them to diverse locations to address what are often highly idiosyncratic interests (e.g.: kite building and flying, communities with lake monster myths, retracing Darwin’s Beagle journey). Watson does not support "library" or research projects; instead, the foundation is interested in students who demonstrate curiosity and independent thinking and in projects that develop a young person’s self-reliance and interpersonal skills. Consequently, students who are successful can be but are not necessarily "A students"; they are always bold and original thinkers and very resourceful. The program is highly selective not only in the students it picks, but also in the roughly 50 colleges it invites to participate. Puget Sound has been a "Watson school" since 1992 and we have been extremely successful in those years with one or two winners almost every year since 1994, and three in 2006-7. This is a unique opportunity for our students, one they are fortunate to have available to them because they attend UPS.
Please take a few moments to announce these informational meetings in your classes. And if you or your students have any questions about the program, please do not hesitate to contact me at pjoshi@ups.edu.
Many thanks,
Priti Joshi
Please announce in your upper division classes the following two informational meetings for students who are interested in applying for the Watson Fellowship this year:
Wed, Sept 12, 4-5:30 pm in Wyatt 208
or
Thurs, Sept 13, 5:30-7 pm in Wyatt 208
Any interested students are welcome to attend, although given the timeline, this meeting will likely be most pertinent to seniors who are considering applying this year (the deadline is Fri, Oct 5th). For juniors and other lower-division students, I run several additional meetings in the spring.
A Few Words about the Watson Fellowship: The Watson is a highly competitive and prestigious national fellowship that provides students with a $25,000 grant to pursue a year of travel outside the United States. Fellows develop innovative projects that take them to diverse locations to address what are often highly idiosyncratic interests (e.g.: kite building and flying, communities with lake monster myths, retracing Darwin’s Beagle journey). Watson does not support "library" or research projects; instead, the foundation is interested in students who demonstrate curiosity and independent thinking and in projects that develop a young person’s self-reliance and interpersonal skills. Consequently, students who are successful can be but are not necessarily "A students"; they are always bold and original thinkers and very resourceful. The program is highly selective not only in the students it picks, but also in the roughly 50 colleges it invites to participate. Puget Sound has been a "Watson school" since 1992 and we have been extremely successful in those years with one or two winners almost every year since 1994, and three in 2006-7. This is a unique opportunity for our students, one they are fortunate to have available to them because they attend UPS.
Please take a few moments to announce these informational meetings in your classes. And if you or your students have any questions about the program, please do not hesitate to contact me at pjoshi@ups.edu.
Many thanks,
Priti Joshi
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Davies-Jackson Scholarship: Deadline November 12
If you're interested, contact the fellowships office, Howarth 114:
Davies-Jackson Scholarship
The Davies-Jackson Scholarship presents a unique opportunity for students with exceptional academic records, who are among the first in their families to graduate college, to participate in a course of study at St. John’s College at the University of Cambridge. After two years of study, candidates are awarded a Cambridge B.A. degree, known as the Cantab degree, which is often viewed as the equivalent of a masters degree in the U.S.
Scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich educational environment of St. John’s, which was founded in the 16th century, by reading in one of the following subjects: Archaeology and Anthropology, Classics, Economics, English, Geography, History, History of Art, Modern and Medieval Languages, Music, Philosophy, or Social and Political Sciences.
Applications for the 2008 Davies-Jackson Scholarship will be accepted September 10-November 12, 2007. For information about the scholarship and application process, as well as a list of previous scholarship recipients, go here.
Tags:
Davies-Jackson Scholarship
The Davies-Jackson Scholarship presents a unique opportunity for students with exceptional academic records, who are among the first in their families to graduate college, to participate in a course of study at St. John’s College at the University of Cambridge. After two years of study, candidates are awarded a Cambridge B.A. degree, known as the Cantab degree, which is often viewed as the equivalent of a masters degree in the U.S.
Scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich educational environment of St. John’s, which was founded in the 16th century, by reading in one of the following subjects: Archaeology and Anthropology, Classics, Economics, English, Geography, History, History of Art, Modern and Medieval Languages, Music, Philosophy, or Social and Political Sciences.
Applications for the 2008 Davies-Jackson Scholarship will be accepted September 10-November 12, 2007. For information about the scholarship and application process, as well as a list of previous scholarship recipients, go here.
Tags:
Alum update and more opportunities--
This in from Ryan Dumm '07. Congrats on his new job, and we've had much good feedback from students who have interned in Norm Dicks' office. In fact, Ryan himself did a stint there prior to landing this job. Ryan writes:
So after several months I finally found a job and it has all worked out great. Last week I was going to start working for Mike Weinman and John Winkler on three local campaigns doing field organizing, but then I interviewed for a position with Norm's office to replace Mike English and took that immediately. I started on Monday and it has been great so far...looks like I will mostly be handling Democratic outreach in the 6th District. My new email address is ryan.dumm@mail.house.gov
And this in turn raises some other opportunities:
Mike and John will be looking for someone to work on those campaigns if you have anyone in mind? It would last until November and be for Don Johnson (port commissioner), Mike Weinman (fircrest city council) and Bruce Banfield (Lakewood city council).
And...
Congressman Norm Dicks’ (D) District Office in downtown Tacoma is looking for quality interns for the fall and spring semesters. Intern responsibilities include constituent services, letters of achievement, scheduling, news briefs, legislative research and a host of other office duties. Internships are unpaid but students can receive credit for 120 hours per semester. This is wonderful opportunity for P&G majors to gain experience in a Congressional office and network for post-graduate employment. To apply, send a letter of interest and your resume to LaTasha Wortham.
latasha.wortham@mail.house.gov
1019 Pacific Ave. Suite 806
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 593-6536
So after several months I finally found a job and it has all worked out great. Last week I was going to start working for Mike Weinman and John Winkler on three local campaigns doing field organizing, but then I interviewed for a position with Norm's office to replace Mike English and took that immediately. I started on Monday and it has been great so far...looks like I will mostly be handling Democratic outreach in the 6th District. My new email address is ryan.dumm@mail.house.gov
And this in turn raises some other opportunities:
Mike and John will be looking for someone to work on those campaigns if you have anyone in mind? It would last until November and be for Don Johnson (port commissioner), Mike Weinman (fircrest city council) and Bruce Banfield (Lakewood city council).
And...
Congressman Norm Dicks’ (D) District Office in downtown Tacoma is looking for quality interns for the fall and spring semesters. Intern responsibilities include constituent services, letters of achievement, scheduling, news briefs, legislative research and a host of other office duties. Internships are unpaid but students can receive credit for 120 hours per semester. This is wonderful opportunity for P&G majors to gain experience in a Congressional office and network for post-graduate employment. To apply, send a letter of interest and your resume to LaTasha Wortham.
latasha.wortham@mail.house.gov
1019 Pacific Ave. Suite 806
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 593-6536
Homecoming?
Alums: will you be back on campus for homecoming, October 12-14? If so, please drop me a note, I'd enjoy getting back in touch or meeting for the first time.
Students: There are some really interesting things going on at homecoming, including "speed networking," and panels on non-profits and civic engagement. Go go go.
Students: There are some really interesting things going on at homecoming, including "speed networking," and panels on non-profits and civic engagement. Go go go.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Local internship for Congress...and Obama...right now!
This in from Matt Perry '06. What an incredible opportunity:
Just wanted to give you an update on what I've been up to. I continue to work for Rep. Adam Smith as his Political Director, which involves managing his campaign and being his political eyes and ears back here in the state. Recently I have also taken on in-state fundraising and assisting with the Obama campaign in Washington (Rep. Smith is the Chair for Obama's campaign here).
I am getting a wide variety of experiences that continues to sharpen my understanding of what campaigns are all about. It is especially interesting to contrast my current fundraising experiences with the findings of my senior thesis, which analyzed U.S. campaign finance laws.
I also wanted to let you know about two internships that we will be offering for the fall, in case any students may be interested. I took advantage of internships throughout college and found that they gave me an edge for finding a job after graduation.
Students will get a wide range of experience with exposure to both Rep. Adam Smith's campaign and also Barack Obama's campaign in the Northwest. Interns will learn the nuts and bolts of organizing a grassroots campaign both on a regional and national scale. Duties will include assisting in the planning of events, attending community meetings, maintaining a database, organizing mailings and all of the other tasks that are involved in running successful campaign.
Anyone interested can reach me at 253-572-6125 or mattperry83@gmail.com.
Thanks!
-Matt
Just wanted to give you an update on what I've been up to. I continue to work for Rep. Adam Smith as his Political Director, which involves managing his campaign and being his political eyes and ears back here in the state. Recently I have also taken on in-state fundraising and assisting with the Obama campaign in Washington (Rep. Smith is the Chair for Obama's campaign here).
I am getting a wide variety of experiences that continues to sharpen my understanding of what campaigns are all about. It is especially interesting to contrast my current fundraising experiences with the findings of my senior thesis, which analyzed U.S. campaign finance laws.
I also wanted to let you know about two internships that we will be offering for the fall, in case any students may be interested. I took advantage of internships throughout college and found that they gave me an edge for finding a job after graduation.
Students will get a wide range of experience with exposure to both Rep. Adam Smith's campaign and also Barack Obama's campaign in the Northwest. Interns will learn the nuts and bolts of organizing a grassroots campaign both on a regional and national scale. Duties will include assisting in the planning of events, attending community meetings, maintaining a database, organizing mailings and all of the other tasks that are involved in running successful campaign.
Anyone interested can reach me at 253-572-6125 or mattperry83@gmail.com.
Thanks!
-Matt
Where are we headed?
I mentioned in an earlier post that last week saw the Fall Faculty Conversation, where President Thomas, Dean Bartanen and other members of the administration spoke about where we are now and where we are heading as an institution.
As always, there are good developments and challenges. And these two things are tightly connected. The university is getting better all the time, with a stronger set of applicants and, I think, a greater set of expectations in what we teach and expect our students to learn.
But as a result, it also means we are trying to punch above our weight. Whereas in past our prospective students might have been considering us over local state schools or liberal arts colleges, what the administration is now hearing is that when we lose a prospective to another school, it's a school much higher ranked than ourselves.
And therein lies the problem. If we want to compete against prestigious liberal arts colleges, we are going to need to offer more financial aid. As it stands, we can't offer as much as many of our competitors, a number of whom rely on merit-based aid to grab the strongest applicants (irrespective of their financial need).
So a stronger set of competitors, and tighter competition. The university's challenge in the coming years will be to build that financial base to improve our financial aid to get a strong and diverse incoming class. If you're an alum, no doubt you'll be hearing more about this in coming years. And to that end, I was also happy to hear that the entire alumni relations structure will be dramatically revamped to better tie our alums to our campus and current students. That, I think, is absolutely crucial.
As always, there are good developments and challenges. And these two things are tightly connected. The university is getting better all the time, with a stronger set of applicants and, I think, a greater set of expectations in what we teach and expect our students to learn.
But as a result, it also means we are trying to punch above our weight. Whereas in past our prospective students might have been considering us over local state schools or liberal arts colleges, what the administration is now hearing is that when we lose a prospective to another school, it's a school much higher ranked than ourselves.
And therein lies the problem. If we want to compete against prestigious liberal arts colleges, we are going to need to offer more financial aid. As it stands, we can't offer as much as many of our competitors, a number of whom rely on merit-based aid to grab the strongest applicants (irrespective of their financial need).
So a stronger set of competitors, and tighter competition. The university's challenge in the coming years will be to build that financial base to improve our financial aid to get a strong and diverse incoming class. If you're an alum, no doubt you'll be hearing more about this in coming years. And to that end, I was also happy to hear that the entire alumni relations structure will be dramatically revamped to better tie our alums to our campus and current students. That, I think, is absolutely crucial.
Freshly Scrubbed
I was on campus this weekend and snapped a few pics of the students as they slowly gathered on campus.
The weather is a bit ickier today, but I guess that is appropriate. Storm clouds gather as classes begin...!
Monday, September 03, 2007
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thank you, donor!
We got a note from the library saying that they received a donation to be spent on additional political science books for the collection. I don't know if that donor is a blog reader, but if you are, many thanks--we appreciate the ongoing support that many of you provide to the university, whether through donations, volunteer work, or simply spreading the good name of our school.
That said, yesterday was the Fall Faculty Conversation, where President Thomas and other members of the administration provide a kind of "state of the campus" address. I will blog with some of the main points next week and let you know how we're doing and what challenges lie ahead.
Have a great Labor Day.
That said, yesterday was the Fall Faculty Conversation, where President Thomas and other members of the administration provide a kind of "state of the campus" address. I will blog with some of the main points next week and let you know how we're doing and what challenges lie ahead.
Have a great Labor Day.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Idealism and Grad School
Idealist.org writes about their upcoming grad school fairs, Graduate Degrees for the Public Good. They write:
"These fairs are a resource for all new, aspiring, and mid-career nonprofit and public service professionals who want to learn more about their graduate education options."
You can find all the details at http://www.idealist.org/gradfairs for the dates across the country. Seattle is on October 23, at Seattle University, and there will be over 80 organizations present, including:
American University School of International Service
AustraLearn: Study in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific
Bard Center for Environmental Policy-New York
Carnegie Mellon University H. John Heinz III School of Public Policy and Management
Georgetown University Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service MA Programs
Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government
International Organizations MBA - University of Geneva (Switzerland)
Master of Arts in Policy Studies (UW Bothell)
Masters degree program in Conflict and Dispute Resolution, University of Oregon
Monterey Institute of International Studies
National Urban Fellows, Inc.
New York University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies
Pacific School of Religion
Pepperdine University School of Public Policy
School of Public and Environmental Affairs - Indiana University
Thunderbird School of Global Management
University of Denver Graduate School of International Studies
University of Melbourne - Faculty of Arts
University of Washington Jackson School of International Studies
Willamette University MBA for Business, Government and Not-for-Profit Management
If you plan to go, would you let me know in case you or anyone else needs a ride?
"These fairs are a resource for all new, aspiring, and mid-career nonprofit and public service professionals who want to learn more about their graduate education options."
You can find all the details at http://www.idealist.org/gradfairs for the dates across the country. Seattle is on October 23, at Seattle University, and there will be over 80 organizations present, including:
American University School of International Service
AustraLearn: Study in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific
Bard Center for Environmental Policy-New York
Carnegie Mellon University H. John Heinz III School of Public Policy and Management
Georgetown University Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service MA Programs
Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government
International Organizations MBA - University of Geneva (Switzerland)
Master of Arts in Policy Studies (UW Bothell)
Masters degree program in Conflict and Dispute Resolution, University of Oregon
Monterey Institute of International Studies
National Urban Fellows, Inc.
New York University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies
Pacific School of Religion
Pepperdine University School of Public Policy
School of Public and Environmental Affairs - Indiana University
Thunderbird School of Global Management
University of Denver Graduate School of International Studies
University of Melbourne - Faculty of Arts
University of Washington Jackson School of International Studies
Willamette University MBA for Business, Government and Not-for-Profit Management
If you plan to go, would you let me know in case you or anyone else needs a ride?
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Global Youth Connect
Forwarded by Professor Share. Interesting?
Global Youth Connect
Human Rights Delegations for Young Leaders -- Winter 2007-2008
Program Locations: El Salvador & Rwanda
Application Deadline: September 21, 2007
Global Youth Connect , an international human rights organization, is pleased to announce that we are accepting applications from young leaders (ages 18-25) for our Winter 2007-2008 International Human Rights Delegations. Program locations include: El Salvador and Rwanda.
Human rights delegations are a unique, first-hand opportunity to cross cultural boundaries and learn about the daily reality of human rights as experienced in a complex and increasingly globalized world. Each delegation weaves together three core sets of activities: site visits to local organizations, hands-on fieldwork projects, and a human rights training workshop with local youth activists.
El Salvador (January 1 -- January 13, 2008)
Program Tuition: $1,635
This delegation will explore the roots of El Salvador ’s 12-year civil war, the long-term impact of the war on Salvadoran society, and the continued persistence of long-standing economic and social inequities that have fueled conflict throughout this tiny nation’s history. Delegation participants will come to understand current social, political, and economic problems faced by Salvadoran society within a broader historical context—including the impact of past and present U.S foreign policies on the lives of Salvadorans. Delegation activities will focus in particular on the efforts of human rights activists and youth to recover from a tumultuous and devastating period of violence and repression, and build a more just, equitable, and peaceful society. Spanish proficiency is required.
Rwanda (December 29, 2007 - January 13, 2008)
Program Tuition: $1,795
This delegation will explore the roots of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, how this legacy of violence has impacted the country and its people, particularly Rwandan youth, and also how the country is attempting to rebuild today. We will examine issues of truth, justice and reconciliation in the context of post-conflict Rwanda and what is needed to strengthen local institutions and programs dedicated to promoting a culture of respect for human rights. Participants will connect with young Rwandans and get involved in a variety of collaborative projects aimed at promoting human rights as well as meet with leading human rights defenders, government representatives, international institutions, youth and others from local communities to learn more about the political, economic and social challenges faced by Rwandans today.
Application Deadline: September 21, 2007
How to Apply: We invite interested young leaders to apply. We are looking for participants who are between the ages of 18-25 and who possess U.S. citizenship or residency as well as international students studying full-time at a U.S. college or university. Most importantly, applicants should wish to expand their knowledge and understanding of human rights and social justice. Participants will become part of a growing global movement of youth acting together for compassion, human rights and responsibility.
For detailed information on program activities, costs, fundraising/financial aid, and application information, please visit our website:
www.globalyouthconnect.org/participate
Best wishes,
Jennifer Kloes
Executive Director
Global Youth Connect
www.globalyouthconnect.org
Acting together for compassion, human rights and responsibility
Tags:
Global Youth Connect
Human Rights Delegations for Young Leaders -- Winter 2007-2008
Program Locations: El Salvador & Rwanda
Application Deadline: September 21, 2007
Global Youth Connect , an international human rights organization, is pleased to announce that we are accepting applications from young leaders (ages 18-25) for our Winter 2007-2008 International Human Rights Delegations. Program locations include: El Salvador and Rwanda.
Human rights delegations are a unique, first-hand opportunity to cross cultural boundaries and learn about the daily reality of human rights as experienced in a complex and increasingly globalized world. Each delegation weaves together three core sets of activities: site visits to local organizations, hands-on fieldwork projects, and a human rights training workshop with local youth activists.
El Salvador (January 1 -- January 13, 2008)
Program Tuition: $1,635
This delegation will explore the roots of El Salvador ’s 12-year civil war, the long-term impact of the war on Salvadoran society, and the continued persistence of long-standing economic and social inequities that have fueled conflict throughout this tiny nation’s history. Delegation participants will come to understand current social, political, and economic problems faced by Salvadoran society within a broader historical context—including the impact of past and present U.S foreign policies on the lives of Salvadorans. Delegation activities will focus in particular on the efforts of human rights activists and youth to recover from a tumultuous and devastating period of violence and repression, and build a more just, equitable, and peaceful society. Spanish proficiency is required.
Rwanda (December 29, 2007 - January 13, 2008)
Program Tuition: $1,795
This delegation will explore the roots of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, how this legacy of violence has impacted the country and its people, particularly Rwandan youth, and also how the country is attempting to rebuild today. We will examine issues of truth, justice and reconciliation in the context of post-conflict Rwanda and what is needed to strengthen local institutions and programs dedicated to promoting a culture of respect for human rights. Participants will connect with young Rwandans and get involved in a variety of collaborative projects aimed at promoting human rights as well as meet with leading human rights defenders, government representatives, international institutions, youth and others from local communities to learn more about the political, economic and social challenges faced by Rwandans today.
Application Deadline: September 21, 2007
How to Apply: We invite interested young leaders to apply. We are looking for participants who are between the ages of 18-25 and who possess U.S. citizenship or residency as well as international students studying full-time at a U.S. college or university. Most importantly, applicants should wish to expand their knowledge and understanding of human rights and social justice. Participants will become part of a growing global movement of youth acting together for compassion, human rights and responsibility.
For detailed information on program activities, costs, fundraising/financial aid, and application information, please visit our website:
www.globalyouthconnect.org/participate
Best wishes,
Jennifer Kloes
Executive Director
Global Youth Connect
www.globalyouthconnect.org
Acting together for compassion, human rights and responsibility
Tags:
Q and A: Visiting Professor Eric Williams
This fall we have the pleasure of working with Professor Eric Williams, who is filling in for Professor Haltom while he is on sabbatical. I asked Professor Williams if he'd submit to a few nosy questions:
Where are you from, where did you go to school?
I grew up in Bangor, Maine and did my undergraduate work at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. I did my graduate work at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. If you haven't had the pleasure of visiting New Jersey yet, don't worry. You're not missing much.
What are you writing your dissertation on?
For my dissertation, I'm studying the relationship between prisons and the local government in two rural communities that lobbied for prisons as an economic development strategy. I spent a year and a half living in Beeville, Texas and Florence Colorado interviewing prison officials, governmental officials and community residents. Beeville has three Texas state prisons and Florence has four federal facilities including the federal supermax prison where the federal government holds its most dangerous inmates, including the Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski and the men that carried out the first attack on the World Trade Center in 1993. Richard Reid, the man who tried to light a shoe bomb on a plane in 2001 is also there. All told, I spent time in 19 different prisons in Colorado and Texas, a fact that makes my family very proud.
What are you teaching this semester, and what kind of topics are you going to focus on?
I'm teaching Law and Society, Constitutional Law and Introduction to US Politics. In Constitutional law, we will be looking at the principles, power and politics of Constitutional law with a focus on the relationship between law and politics. In Law and Society, we will begin by looking at historical and international notions of justice and its application and will then focus on law and justice in the United States context. The readings for this course are a mix of novels, memoirs, journalistic accounts, court cases and philosophic works. In Introduction to US Politics, we will study the formal and informal institutions that make up the American political system and then see how these institutions interact by looking at some of the issues that are most important today.
So, is it true that your students will go to prison?
I think everyone should have to go to prison at some point in their college career, so I think this is a good opportunity to do so with the near guarantee of being let out at the end of the day! I'm setting up a tour of the old federal facility and current state facility on McNeil Island which will include a visit to the segregation unit, commonly known as the "hole," meetings with corrections officers and small group meetings with inmates there.
What do you do when you're not working?
My main hobby is hiking and I spend as much time as I can in the mountains.
In sum: students, you'd be crazy not to take a course from Professor Williams while you have the chance. If you have questions or want to know more, you'll find him in Professor Haltom's office, Wyatt 219
Where are you from, where did you go to school?
I grew up in Bangor, Maine and did my undergraduate work at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. I did my graduate work at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. If you haven't had the pleasure of visiting New Jersey yet, don't worry. You're not missing much.
What are you writing your dissertation on?
For my dissertation, I'm studying the relationship between prisons and the local government in two rural communities that lobbied for prisons as an economic development strategy. I spent a year and a half living in Beeville, Texas and Florence Colorado interviewing prison officials, governmental officials and community residents. Beeville has three Texas state prisons and Florence has four federal facilities including the federal supermax prison where the federal government holds its most dangerous inmates, including the Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski and the men that carried out the first attack on the World Trade Center in 1993. Richard Reid, the man who tried to light a shoe bomb on a plane in 2001 is also there. All told, I spent time in 19 different prisons in Colorado and Texas, a fact that makes my family very proud.
What are you teaching this semester, and what kind of topics are you going to focus on?
I'm teaching Law and Society, Constitutional Law and Introduction to US Politics. In Constitutional law, we will be looking at the principles, power and politics of Constitutional law with a focus on the relationship between law and politics. In Law and Society, we will begin by looking at historical and international notions of justice and its application and will then focus on law and justice in the United States context. The readings for this course are a mix of novels, memoirs, journalistic accounts, court cases and philosophic works. In Introduction to US Politics, we will study the formal and informal institutions that make up the American political system and then see how these institutions interact by looking at some of the issues that are most important today.
So, is it true that your students will go to prison?
I think everyone should have to go to prison at some point in their college career, so I think this is a good opportunity to do so with the near guarantee of being let out at the end of the day! I'm setting up a tour of the old federal facility and current state facility on McNeil Island which will include a visit to the segregation unit, commonly known as the "hole," meetings with corrections officers and small group meetings with inmates there.
What do you do when you're not working?
My main hobby is hiking and I spend as much time as I can in the mountains.
In sum: students, you'd be crazy not to take a course from Professor Williams while you have the chance. If you have questions or want to know more, you'll find him in Professor Haltom's office, Wyatt 219
Google is not gospel
From PC World:
"University students may be encouraged to be critical but they don't seem to question Google's ranking system, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication.
The experiment involved 22 undergraduate students (with various majors) from Cornell University in the U.S. It found that overall, the students had an inherent trust in Google's ability to rank results by their true relevance to the query.
"When participants selected a link from Google's result pages, their decisions were strongly biased towards links higher in position, even if that content was less relevant to the search query," states the report. "
Read the news bite here; the whole study can be found here.
Hat tip: Melissa Rohlfs, Office of Communications.
"University students may be encouraged to be critical but they don't seem to question Google's ranking system, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication.
The experiment involved 22 undergraduate students (with various majors) from Cornell University in the U.S. It found that overall, the students had an inherent trust in Google's ability to rank results by their true relevance to the query.
"When participants selected a link from Google's result pages, their decisions were strongly biased towards links higher in position, even if that content was less relevant to the search query," states the report. "
Read the news bite here; the whole study can be found here.
Hat tip: Melissa Rohlfs, Office of Communications.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Cupcakey Goodness
http://www.hello-cupcake.com/
Now, what more a reason do you need to go downtown? (hat tip: Exit 133).
Now, what more a reason do you need to go downtown? (hat tip: Exit 133).
Burst the bubble
Students, now that you're here, it's time to go. Break through the campus/North End bubble.
Get off of campus.
Get an internship, meet some people, develop some contacts, get some experience.
Go downtown, check out the museums, walk the International District on 38th, have dinner in a Korean restaurant in South Tacoma, shop the Russian store on Center Street, take the ferry to Vashon Island.
Find something new and seemingly undiscovered, then act all in the know around your friends.
This is that time--make the most of it.
Get off of campus.
Get an internship, meet some people, develop some contacts, get some experience.
Go downtown, check out the museums, walk the International District on 38th, have dinner in a Korean restaurant in South Tacoma, shop the Russian store on Center Street, take the ferry to Vashon Island.
Find something new and seemingly undiscovered, then act all in the know around your friends.
This is that time--make the most of it.
Monday, August 27, 2007
They're Here...
The freshmen started showing up last week in earnest; Friday I saw several clutches of incomings and their parents unloading their dorm flotsam. Perhaps my favorite sight was a family who had towed everything in a horse trailer--no horse, though, and I assumed they'd cleaned it thoroughly before the trip.
I caught the tail end of President Thomas' convocation speech over Baker Stadium; wonderful weather and a fine way of kicking off one's life in college.
If there are any freshmen reading this post, I wish you all the best in the years to come. And as always, if you have any questions about the major, drop by my office (Wyatt 222). I'd be happy to chat.
I caught the tail end of President Thomas' convocation speech over Baker Stadium; wonderful weather and a fine way of kicking off one's life in college.
If there are any freshmen reading this post, I wish you all the best in the years to come. And as always, if you have any questions about the major, drop by my office (Wyatt 222). I'd be happy to chat.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Intern with Congressman Adam Smith
Stephen Souval '09 writes:
I recently finished my summer internship at Congressman Adam Smith's district office, and thought you may want to tell your blog subscribers that the office is seeking interns for both spring and fall (they said they will be especially in need this fall). The link to the internship is: http://www.house.gov/adamsmith/cs/internship.shtml. The office is very flexible with interns' schedules and would be a perfect position for busy students (and they especially love UPS students).
We've placed many students there, many of whom have gone on to use their experience to open doors to employment here and around the country. A great opportunity that all of our majors should consider.
I recently finished my summer internship at Congressman Adam Smith's district office, and thought you may want to tell your blog subscribers that the office is seeking interns for both spring and fall (they said they will be especially in need this fall). The link to the internship is: http://www.house.gov/adamsmith/cs/internship.shtml. The office is very flexible with interns' schedules and would be a perfect position for busy students (and they especially love UPS students).
We've placed many students there, many of whom have gone on to use their experience to open doors to employment here and around the country. A great opportunity that all of our majors should consider.
Fast Cities 2007
Thanks to Elaine Bolton '64 for this bit of fun from Fast Company:
Fast Cities 2007
Which cities are best for work? Culture? Startups? And which are overheated or dead in the water? And should you disagree, they've got room for you to put in your own two cents (I added a comment on Tacoma).
Fast Cities 2007
Which cities are best for work? Culture? Startups? And which are overheated or dead in the water? And should you disagree, they've got room for you to put in your own two cents (I added a comment on Tacoma).
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Intern in DC--Meet Alum--Monday
Julie Housh, ’06 UPS Politics and Government alum, will be on campus Monday, August 27th. She is currently the staff assistant and intern coordinator for Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02) in Washington, D.C. Julie will be around to talk to anyone interested in interning with Congressman Larsen, her internship experience, working on Capitol Hill, or anything in between. If you’d like to chat with her please e-mail her at Julie.housh@mail.house.gov.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
We're number 122?
In past we've noted that Washington Monthly does a completely different set of rankings for schools, based on categories they title Social Mobility, Research, and Service. UPS comes in at 121 of 201 colleges. While that may sound bad, according to their criteria schools like Reed come in at 106 and Lewis and Clark at 105. Where do we do well? How many of our students go on to get PhDs (we rank 40), and the number of alums in the Peace Corps (they give the rank as 7--what year this data is from I can't tell, though this year our rank was number one). We do less well in having many students on Pell Grants and also spending work-study money on community service. Read it here.
Probably the odder thing about these ratings is the way in which the schools can so radically shift from year to year--last year Reed was ranked 24. I'm not certain how much value one can get out of an evaluation system where many of the schools fluctuate so much from year to year (13 of the top twenty weren't in the top twenty last year, and many of those weren't anywere near it).
Probably the odder thing about these ratings is the way in which the schools can so radically shift from year to year--last year Reed was ranked 24. I'm not certain how much value one can get out of an evaluation system where many of the schools fluctuate so much from year to year (13 of the top twenty weren't in the top twenty last year, and many of those weren't anywere near it).
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Former President Susan Pierce in Newsweek
Former President Susan Pierce has a piece in Newsweek online that describes her husband Ken's long illness and the challenges of dealing with sickness (Ken Pierce died last December). You can find the piece here (Hat tip: Melissa Rohlfs, Office of Communications).
Monday, August 20, 2007
New Alum Blog: Another One L
Morgan O'Neal '06 has not only begun law school (see earlier post) but has gotten into the swing of things with a blog entitled Another One L. As I know that many of our readers either a) want to be lawyers; b) are in law school; or c) are lawyers, you may find that Morgan's ruminations pique your interest, strike fear, engage your morbid curiosity, generate feelings of solidarity or invoke a nostalgia for times past.
Maybe you'd like to leave a comment--bloggers like them.
Maybe you'd like to leave a comment--bloggers like them.
Friday, August 17, 2007
We're Number Eighty!
US News has its college rankings for 2008 out, I see, and UPS comes in 80 among national liberal arts colleges, tied with Lewis and Clark in Oregon. See the list here.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Internship Opportunity
Something extra to keep you busy...
Roads and Transit Proposition 1
Campaign Internship and Volunteer Opportunities for UPS Students
Positions involve field work, voter contact, volunteer coordinating, and fundraising
ROADS & TRANSIT IS A BALANCED AND COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO SOLVING OUR REGION’S TRAFFIC PROBLEMS
A comprehensive transportation system will improve our quality of life
• Addressing major choke-points will reduce congestion.
• Building a fast, safe and reliable light rail system across the region will help lift people out of congestion and make it easier to live and do business here.
More transportation choices means a cleaner environment
• Building an additional 50 miles of light rail to connect Bellevue, Redmond’s Overlake area, Mercer Island, Northgate, Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Alderwood, the 164th Street/Ash Way area, Des Moines, Federal Way and Tacoma will take cars off the road and provide better mobility options.
• Creating nearly 12,000 park and ride slots at bus, commuter rail and light rail stations will help commuters get out of their cars.
Upgrading our infrastructure improves safety
• Replacing and retrofitting overpasses and bridges vulnerable to earthquakes.
• Reducing congestion will allow first responders to move more quickly during an emergency.
Investing in transportation drives our economy
• Building transit and fixing choke-points will help improve traffic and move people and goods more quickly and reliably.
• Improving freight mobility will allow our region to compete in an expanding global economy.
For more information about specific projects in Snohomish, King, or Pierce Counties, go to www.yesonroadsandtransit.org
PLEASE CONTACT:
Shannon Murphy
Pierce County Outreach Coordinator
Shannon@yesonroadsandtransit.org
206-381-1251
Roads and Transit Proposition 1
Campaign Internship and Volunteer Opportunities for UPS Students
Positions involve field work, voter contact, volunteer coordinating, and fundraising
ROADS & TRANSIT IS A BALANCED AND COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO SOLVING OUR REGION’S TRAFFIC PROBLEMS
A comprehensive transportation system will improve our quality of life
• Addressing major choke-points will reduce congestion.
• Building a fast, safe and reliable light rail system across the region will help lift people out of congestion and make it easier to live and do business here.
More transportation choices means a cleaner environment
• Building an additional 50 miles of light rail to connect Bellevue, Redmond’s Overlake area, Mercer Island, Northgate, Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Alderwood, the 164th Street/Ash Way area, Des Moines, Federal Way and Tacoma will take cars off the road and provide better mobility options.
• Creating nearly 12,000 park and ride slots at bus, commuter rail and light rail stations will help commuters get out of their cars.
Upgrading our infrastructure improves safety
• Replacing and retrofitting overpasses and bridges vulnerable to earthquakes.
• Reducing congestion will allow first responders to move more quickly during an emergency.
Investing in transportation drives our economy
• Building transit and fixing choke-points will help improve traffic and move people and goods more quickly and reliably.
• Improving freight mobility will allow our region to compete in an expanding global economy.
For more information about specific projects in Snohomish, King, or Pierce Counties, go to www.yesonroadsandtransit.org
PLEASE CONTACT:
Shannon Murphy
Pierce County Outreach Coordinator
Shannon@yesonroadsandtransit.org
206-381-1251
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Now the truth can be told
Our earlier snapshot of Marx was anonymous; I can now tell all that it was taken by none other than Chris Pohlad '07, who was at Corvinus University in Budapest looking up some old friends of mine in the Political Science Department there. Chris was in Budapest in advance of his new job there, working for PepsiAmericas. Yes, I know Hungary isn't in the Americas, but they also have a presence across Central Europe. Chris will be there for a year or so, and sees it as a good opportunity to get both business and foreign experience. I'm excited for Chris to set up shop in my old stomping ground, and the department wishes him the best of luck.
Tags:
Tags:
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
All not well with study abroad?
In the New York Times, a piece questioning some of the practices surrounding study abroad and the intermediate institutions that often run these programs. Find the piece here.
I don't know these details too well, but I think the author may be overstating the degree to which a university can "make money" or get "perks" on study abroad, especially if a student has university financial aid which is being directed toward the study abroad program and away from campus. The article also suggests that students could easily directly enroll abroad, but that would not necessarily be covered by federal or campus-based financial aid, nor would one necessarily find a program in a non-English speaking country set up for study abroad (though they do exist). I think the author is straining to draw parallels with the recent student loan scandal, but it's not quite so evident--at least to me.
I don't know these details too well, but I think the author may be overstating the degree to which a university can "make money" or get "perks" on study abroad, especially if a student has university financial aid which is being directed toward the study abroad program and away from campus. The article also suggests that students could easily directly enroll abroad, but that would not necessarily be covered by federal or campus-based financial aid, nor would one necessarily find a program in a non-English speaking country set up for study abroad (though they do exist). I think the author is straining to draw parallels with the recent student loan scandal, but it's not quite so evident--at least to me.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Job Opening, DC
Position Available in Smith's DC Office
Congressman Adam Smith seeks experienced legislative assistant to manage portfolio including labor, transportation, financial services, and judiciary issues. This is not an entry level position. Must have ability to work in fast-paced office, possess excellent writing skills, and have a solid understanding of the legislative process. Pacific Northwest ties and sense of humor are a plus. Salary range 35K+ dependent upon experience. Please email resume and cover letter to WA09LegislativeAssistant@mail.house.gov No calls or drop-bys.
The Honorable Adam Smith
2402 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-8901
Congressman Adam Smith seeks experienced legislative assistant to manage portfolio including labor, transportation, financial services, and judiciary issues. This is not an entry level position. Must have ability to work in fast-paced office, possess excellent writing skills, and have a solid understanding of the legislative process. Pacific Northwest ties and sense of humor are a plus. Salary range 35K+ dependent upon experience. Please email resume and cover letter to WA09LegislativeAssistant@mail.house.gov No calls or drop-bys.
The Honorable Adam Smith
2402 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-8901
Not Groucho
This image showed up in my in box a few days back from a recent alum who was in Budapest. The statue is at Corvinus University (where I was affiliated on a research Fulbright 15 years ago), which back in the Bad Old Days was Karl Marx University. The statue, a huge affair, remains, for reasons obscure to me. And what was our intrepid alum doing in Budapest? Details to follow.
Textbooks are Spendy
From the New York Times, an editorial suggesting a whole new model for college textbook sales, or rather an old one with a different application. Should textbooks function akin to software, with site licenses? Would this bring the price down? Interesting idea; the article is here.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Kudos, Torey
Torey Holderith got a nice comment from his superior at the USMMA for his work during the internship. Makes us look good. It's here.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Beltway Strategy
A piece in Inside Higher Ed on specialized programs in DC that focus on strategic/defense studies, including, interestingly, Missouri State (yes, in DC). Some observations on the difficulties (practical and ideological) in setting up these kinds of programs and training students well. The article is here.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Ghost Sign
A few weeks back UW Tacoma took down the "Dawg Shed," a rather sad and nondescript building on Pacific Avenue, to make way for a new assembly hall. The demolition revealed this nice ghost sign, along with a few others, that are now open to the sky until the new building hides them again for another half-century or so.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Big Darlin' Professor Share
Hot off them Internets, Professor Share's bluegrass band wins praise for its recent album, Big Darlin--
The Downtown Mountain Boys are Paul Elliott, Don Share, David Keenan, Terrence Enyeart and Tom Moran, the cream of Seattle-area pickers, top teachers, session musicians, and musicologists . . . so the release of their latest, Big Darlin’ comes with weighty expectations. Happily, they make it sound easy, as great musicians can. Big Darlin’ is a solid slice of real, straight-ahead Bluegrass, with only the faintest hints that the band members do some work outside the genre, too (banjoist Keenan, who made his name in rockabilly and sports Seattle’s most iconic haircut, can’t help singing like Lefty Frizzell.) The disc features a couple numbers by award-winning songwriter and former Seattleite Nancy Riccio, including the scorching opening cut, “Back in the Black,” which is about how payday means not just solvency but a general lifting of spirits. Most of the disc is wisely chosen material from a variety of County and Bluegrass sources, like Jesse Fuller’s “99 Years and One Dark Day” and “Till the End of the World Rolls Around.” The cuts are committed with the drive and verve Bluegrass needs, but just to be different, DTMB does the usually-hyper “Black Eyed Suzie” as a slow country lope. Fiddler Paul Elliott penned the title track, while Keenan contributes a fascinating, hilarious, philosophical piece of cornpone Zen, “Sometimes Dig for Taters.” Big Darlin’ is the big local Bluegrass release of the summer, and should go national. It’s big, darlin’.
–Tom Petersen, Victory Music Review, August 2007.
Tags:
The Downtown Mountain Boys are Paul Elliott, Don Share, David Keenan, Terrence Enyeart and Tom Moran, the cream of Seattle-area pickers, top teachers, session musicians, and musicologists . . . so the release of their latest, Big Darlin’ comes with weighty expectations. Happily, they make it sound easy, as great musicians can. Big Darlin’ is a solid slice of real, straight-ahead Bluegrass, with only the faintest hints that the band members do some work outside the genre, too (banjoist Keenan, who made his name in rockabilly and sports Seattle’s most iconic haircut, can’t help singing like Lefty Frizzell.) The disc features a couple numbers by award-winning songwriter and former Seattleite Nancy Riccio, including the scorching opening cut, “Back in the Black,” which is about how payday means not just solvency but a general lifting of spirits. Most of the disc is wisely chosen material from a variety of County and Bluegrass sources, like Jesse Fuller’s “99 Years and One Dark Day” and “Till the End of the World Rolls Around.” The cuts are committed with the drive and verve Bluegrass needs, but just to be different, DTMB does the usually-hyper “Black Eyed Suzie” as a slow country lope. Fiddler Paul Elliott penned the title track, while Keenan contributes a fascinating, hilarious, philosophical piece of cornpone Zen, “Sometimes Dig for Taters.” Big Darlin’ is the big local Bluegrass release of the summer, and should go national. It’s big, darlin’.
–Tom Petersen, Victory Music Review, August 2007.
Tags:
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Torey Holderith '09: USMMA Internship Update
Torey Holderith '09 checks in as his internship winds down--and he's off to do another at the Center for Advanced Defense Studies.
We hope to offer this internship again next summer, so if what you hear below sounds attractive, drop me a note or come by once the school year begins.
My internship at the United States Merchant Marine Academy is coming to close, and I wanted recap some of the highlights of my several months here. On June 18th 2007 the academy held its annual commencement exercises. This was really the big event of my internship, as I had been helping to assemble guest lists and in preparation of the logistical nightmare which is a graduation ceremony, but which is made even worse by the attendance of Senator John S. McCain, Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, and Maritime Administrator Sean T. Connaughton. My primary task during this time was managing a guest list of about 700 VIPs who were invited to the ceremony and a luncheon following, but as an intern I was also given the opportunity to help with a large amount of random tasks.
The ceremony was a very successful and while there were a few hitches the critiques were overwhelmingly positive. The ceremony was moving, it is hard to go into detail, but Midshipmen wear the uniforms of the service into which they are entering (they have a choice between all services upon graduation) and during the ceremony those going into each service rose to take their respective oaths of service. Senator John McCain delivered an excellent commencement speech and the graduates threw their hats into the air. The only thing missing from the ceremony was the flyover by Navy Jets, which was unfortunately denied due to Navy disciplinary policy (pilot had apparently done an unauthorized flyover of a Mets game). I fear I have not done the ceremony justice in my description, but Midshipmen work with little break from the time they enter the academy to reach graduation, so to say that they were excited to graduate would be a gross understatement.
Following graduation there was a short break, and then on July 5th 2007 the freshmen (Plebe) class arrived. They were met with haircuts and drill instructors. Part of what makes this phase (indoctrination) remarkable is that the drill instructors are comprised entirely of upper-classmen with only limited Marine Corps supervision. Although my role in the indoctrination phase was small, witnessing it was certainly an experience. Parents drop their kids off, listen to a welcoming speech by the Superintendent of the academy and then are promptly escorted off campus. This two and a half week “orientation” phase is meant to instill discipline and etiquette into the plebe candidates and introduce them to the academy. I found myself invited to do PT with them in the mornings, but sadly only participated several times, primarily because waking up at 0530 was not on my schedule. To say the least it was not quite the same as I remember my first week of school at UPS.
My last day here at Kings Point is this Friday, and I will certainly miss this place. UPS has a beautiful campus, but its hard to beat this prime waterfront property here along the Long Island Sound. My final task during my stay here is to develop an intern succession plan, so it is my hope that this may be an annual experience for UPS students so that a closer relationship may be attained between the United States Merchant Marine Academy and the University of Puget Sound. In my short time here I have witnessed the end of one class’s time at Kings Point, and the beginning of another. It has been quite remarkable. That being said, I look forward to returning to UPS and the great Pacific Northwest, following several great months in Kings Point.
Cheers,
Torey Holderith
Class of 2009
We hope to offer this internship again next summer, so if what you hear below sounds attractive, drop me a note or come by once the school year begins.
My internship at the United States Merchant Marine Academy is coming to close, and I wanted recap some of the highlights of my several months here. On June 18th 2007 the academy held its annual commencement exercises. This was really the big event of my internship, as I had been helping to assemble guest lists and in preparation of the logistical nightmare which is a graduation ceremony, but which is made even worse by the attendance of Senator John S. McCain, Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, and Maritime Administrator Sean T. Connaughton. My primary task during this time was managing a guest list of about 700 VIPs who were invited to the ceremony and a luncheon following, but as an intern I was also given the opportunity to help with a large amount of random tasks.
The ceremony was a very successful and while there were a few hitches the critiques were overwhelmingly positive. The ceremony was moving, it is hard to go into detail, but Midshipmen wear the uniforms of the service into which they are entering (they have a choice between all services upon graduation) and during the ceremony those going into each service rose to take their respective oaths of service. Senator John McCain delivered an excellent commencement speech and the graduates threw their hats into the air. The only thing missing from the ceremony was the flyover by Navy Jets, which was unfortunately denied due to Navy disciplinary policy (pilot had apparently done an unauthorized flyover of a Mets game). I fear I have not done the ceremony justice in my description, but Midshipmen work with little break from the time they enter the academy to reach graduation, so to say that they were excited to graduate would be a gross understatement.
Following graduation there was a short break, and then on July 5th 2007 the freshmen (Plebe) class arrived. They were met with haircuts and drill instructors. Part of what makes this phase (indoctrination) remarkable is that the drill instructors are comprised entirely of upper-classmen with only limited Marine Corps supervision. Although my role in the indoctrination phase was small, witnessing it was certainly an experience. Parents drop their kids off, listen to a welcoming speech by the Superintendent of the academy and then are promptly escorted off campus. This two and a half week “orientation” phase is meant to instill discipline and etiquette into the plebe candidates and introduce them to the academy. I found myself invited to do PT with them in the mornings, but sadly only participated several times, primarily because waking up at 0530 was not on my schedule. To say the least it was not quite the same as I remember my first week of school at UPS.
My last day here at Kings Point is this Friday, and I will certainly miss this place. UPS has a beautiful campus, but its hard to beat this prime waterfront property here along the Long Island Sound. My final task during my stay here is to develop an intern succession plan, so it is my hope that this may be an annual experience for UPS students so that a closer relationship may be attained between the United States Merchant Marine Academy and the University of Puget Sound. In my short time here I have witnessed the end of one class’s time at Kings Point, and the beginning of another. It has been quite remarkable. That being said, I look forward to returning to UPS and the great Pacific Northwest, following several great months in Kings Point.
Cheers,
Torey Holderith
Class of 2009
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Hanseatic Haltom
A few days back Bill Haltom travelled to Berlin for the Law and Society Conference, and was joined by Professor Ostrom from the English Department. Professor Haltom's paper, co-authored with Michael McCann (Political Science, University of Washington) was titled "Gunning for Justice and Pressing for Reform: How U. S. Newspapers Report Disputes over Firearms". Professor Ostrom's paper dealt with Langston Hughes' work as it related to issues of race, ethnicity, and rights. Read the abstracts here.
I am going to go out on a limb here and say that I think they had a good time at the conference. And I know that Berlin is not really Hanseatic. A bit of bloggy license for sake of alliteration.
Tags:
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
We Kiva
This summer the Politics and Government Department set up an account with Kiva. Kiva is a microlending organization that allows individuals to make small loans to businesses in less developed parts of the world.
The total amount that people want is rather small--around $1000--and usually toward creating or expanding a small family business, like a restaurant or auto repair shop. numerous individuals make small contributions toward any one loan, which both limits the risk and helps create more of a network of donors.
Politics and Government started our account with $100, and Professor Fields asked his summer students in Introduction to Comparative Politics to choose which country and applicant they wanted to support. You can find out about who they chose here.
What I like about Kiva is that while any interest on the loan goes to cover overhead, the principal itself is paid back to the original lender. So if all goes well, we'll have our hundred bucks back, and can reinvest it. To date, the repayment rate at Kiva is over 99%.
We'll look to grow our account in the near future, and Student Body President Hart Edmonson '08 and I have also talked about expanding this further across the student body. Stay tuned.
The total amount that people want is rather small--around $1000--and usually toward creating or expanding a small family business, like a restaurant or auto repair shop. numerous individuals make small contributions toward any one loan, which both limits the risk and helps create more of a network of donors.
Politics and Government started our account with $100, and Professor Fields asked his summer students in Introduction to Comparative Politics to choose which country and applicant they wanted to support. You can find out about who they chose here.
What I like about Kiva is that while any interest on the loan goes to cover overhead, the principal itself is paid back to the original lender. So if all goes well, we'll have our hundred bucks back, and can reinvest it. To date, the repayment rate at Kiva is over 99%.
We'll look to grow our account in the near future, and Student Body President Hart Edmonson '08 and I have also talked about expanding this further across the student body. Stay tuned.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Constitutions Matter
You certainly wouldn't get any argument from me on that--standard introductory political science. But what's with all the billboards that have sprung up around town with nothing more than these two words?
Blogs at the News Tribune and our own Exit 133 (Derek Young '96) are suggesting that this is a statement by Clear Channel in response to Tacoma's decision to bring all billboards in town in compliance with regulations that limit their size and placement. Is Clear Channel saying that these restrictions are a limitation on free speech? It will be interesting to see how this battle shapes up--Clear Channel has deep pockets.
More on the story here.
Thanks to Exit 133 for the image.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Teach in Chile
CIEE proudly announces the opening of applications for our second Teach in Chile program: http://www.ciee.org/teach/choose_program/teach_chile.aspx.
Teach in Chile begins in late February 2008 for the Chilean academic year; the application deadline is September 1. Application information is available on the CIEE website http://www.ciee.org/teach/teach_chile/placement_chile.aspx.
CIEE is collaborating with several reputable institutions to host Americans as English teachers for the 2008 Chilean academic school year, starting in late February and ending in mid-December. These institutions include local private schools in Santiago, the Universidad de Chile in Santiago, and DuocUC, a non-profit private institution of higher education established in 1968 by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.
An exceptional opportunity for recent graduates, the CIEE Teach Chile program offers native English speakers with strong Spanish skills, who possess, at minimum, a bachelor's degree a unique and affordable opportunity to live and work in this fascinating country and to gain insight into the life and culture in a way no traveler could. Previous teaching experience is not necessary, although it's quite desirable.
CIEE program benefits include orientation by on-site CIEE staff and local experts in Santiago focused on cross-cultural issues and teaching methodologies, insurance coverage, 24 hour in-country emergency support services, pre-departure advice and support, teaching tools, and visa advising.
Please feel free to contact me with questions, or share my details with interested alums.
Kind regards,
Jennifer
Jennifer Atkinson
Manager, Teach Abroad Programs
CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange
7 Custom House Street, 3rd Floor
Portland, ME 04101-4739
T: 207/553-7639
F: 207/253-0639
E: jatkinson@ciee.org
W: www.ciee.org/teach
Tags:
Teach in Chile begins in late February 2008 for the Chilean academic year; the application deadline is September 1. Application information is available on the CIEE website http://www.ciee.org/teach/teach_chile/placement_chile.aspx.
CIEE is collaborating with several reputable institutions to host Americans as English teachers for the 2008 Chilean academic school year, starting in late February and ending in mid-December. These institutions include local private schools in Santiago, the Universidad de Chile in Santiago, and DuocUC, a non-profit private institution of higher education established in 1968 by the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.
An exceptional opportunity for recent graduates, the CIEE Teach Chile program offers native English speakers with strong Spanish skills, who possess, at minimum, a bachelor's degree a unique and affordable opportunity to live and work in this fascinating country and to gain insight into the life and culture in a way no traveler could. Previous teaching experience is not necessary, although it's quite desirable.
CIEE program benefits include orientation by on-site CIEE staff and local experts in Santiago focused on cross-cultural issues and teaching methodologies, insurance coverage, 24 hour in-country emergency support services, pre-departure advice and support, teaching tools, and visa advising.
Please feel free to contact me with questions, or share my details with interested alums.
Kind regards,
Jennifer
Jennifer Atkinson
Manager, Teach Abroad Programs
CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange
7 Custom House Street, 3rd Floor
Portland, ME 04101-4739
T: 207/553-7639
F: 207/253-0639
E: jatkinson@ciee.org
W: www.ciee.org/teach
Tags:
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Fall Internship, World Trade Center Tacoma
From Colleen Gause '06:
I have been keeping busy at the Trade Center since we last saw each other in June. We’ve had several events and trade research projects, and I am developing some new publications for WTC Tacoma.
As summer is drawing to a close (sooner that I would hope!), our summer interns are kindly letting us know that they will be heading back to school and various ventures in the next few weeks. With that said, we would love to have folks apply for fall internships now. Would you mind posting the opening on the blog?
Here’s some verbiage:
The World Trade Center Tacoma is recruiting for fall interns. Interns are asked to work 15-20 hours per week, and are unpaid. We are flexible to work around student class and work schedules. There are positions available in event coordinating, international trade services, and website design. Interested students are asked to submit their resume, cover letter (indicate which intern position you are interested in and your schedule availability), a letter of recommendation, and also a school transcript if you are interested in receiving academic credit for your internship. For more information about intern positions, visit: http://www.wtcta.org/index.php?CURRENT_PAGE_ID=521.
All application materials and questions about internships can be sent to Colleen Gause at cgause@wtcta.org.
Thanks in advance for your assistance. I’d love seeing more Loggers down here at the Trade Center!
I have been keeping busy at the Trade Center since we last saw each other in June. We’ve had several events and trade research projects, and I am developing some new publications for WTC Tacoma.
As summer is drawing to a close (sooner that I would hope!), our summer interns are kindly letting us know that they will be heading back to school and various ventures in the next few weeks. With that said, we would love to have folks apply for fall internships now. Would you mind posting the opening on the blog?
Here’s some verbiage:
The World Trade Center Tacoma is recruiting for fall interns. Interns are asked to work 15-20 hours per week, and are unpaid. We are flexible to work around student class and work schedules. There are positions available in event coordinating, international trade services, and website design. Interested students are asked to submit their resume, cover letter (indicate which intern position you are interested in and your schedule availability), a letter of recommendation, and also a school transcript if you are interested in receiving academic credit for your internship. For more information about intern positions, visit: http://www.wtcta.org/index.php?CURRENT_PAGE_ID=521.
All application materials and questions about internships can be sent to Colleen Gause at cgause@wtcta.org.
Thanks in advance for your assistance. I’d love seeing more Loggers down here at the Trade Center!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Need a Job in NYC? Alum's got one!
Megan Buscho 'o6 writes:
I wanted to see if you would post something about the non-profit I am working at New Visions for Public Schools. We are hiring for a couple of entry-level positions, and I would love to help out any Loggers that are looking for jobs in New York. The website is www.newvisions.org, so if you could post a small blurb, I would really appreciate it.
Check it out, and there's an older post on what Megan's been up to, including a discussion of New Visions, here.
I wanted to see if you would post something about the non-profit I am working at New Visions for Public Schools. We are hiring for a couple of entry-level positions, and I would love to help out any Loggers that are looking for jobs in New York. The website is www.newvisions.org, so if you could post a small blurb, I would really appreciate it.
Check it out, and there's an older post on what Megan's been up to, including a discussion of New Visions, here.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Bet on it
I was thinking about the prediction markets today. I'm not much of a gambler, myself, but I'm interested in the ways in which markets can be used to predict certain outcomes--not just betting on sports, but things like elections. Online betting is illegal in the US, but in Ireland Tradesports and Intrade allow you to bet online on a range of things, including the outcome of the Russian presidential elections or whether there will be an airstrike by the US against Iran by the end of September. Many observers in political science and economics have argued that these kinds of markets, where there is real money involved, have a good track record at guessing future outcomes correctly. That being said, it's interesting to look at the Democratic candidates for president as viewed by the betting community. The number on the right can essentially be viewed as a percentage of likelihood of that person being nominated. You can click on the pictures for a larger size.
Here's the bet on Clinton becoming the presidential nominee:
And here's Obama:
Interesting to look through, even if you're not a gamer at heart.
Here's the bet on Clinton becoming the presidential nominee:
And here's Obama:
Interesting to look through, even if you're not a gamer at heart.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Morgan O'Neal '06 is off to law school
Morgan writes:
I just wanted to give you a quick update on where I'm at and what's going on. I finished my contract at Microsoft in June and have been taking a vacation. I had applied to the Seattle University School of Law in January and found out in April that I was on the waitlist...I finally heard about 3 weeks ago that I've been admitted to the entering class of 2007. My first (full!) day of class is on August 27th...I'm thinking about blogging my experiences as a One L, so I'll let you know if that happens and you can pass the info to anyone you think might be interested.
Best of luck to Morgan and let's hope that for that One L blog to give us the inside scoop on life at law school.
I just wanted to give you a quick update on where I'm at and what's going on. I finished my contract at Microsoft in June and have been taking a vacation. I had applied to the Seattle University School of Law in January and found out in April that I was on the waitlist...I finally heard about 3 weeks ago that I've been admitted to the entering class of 2007. My first (full!) day of class is on August 27th...I'm thinking about blogging my experiences as a One L, so I'll let you know if that happens and you can pass the info to anyone you think might be interested.
Best of luck to Morgan and let's hope that for that One L blog to give us the inside scoop on life at law school.
The First Ninety Days
A short piece in the Wall Street Journal on how recent grads should approach their new job in its first ninety days. The main points:
- Find a mentor
- Get on people's radar
- Play up your tech skills
- Turn on spell check
- Keep your opinions to yourself.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Jennifer DeLury Ciplet '98: Amazon Watch to NISGUA
A ways back we profiled Jennifer DeLury Ciplet '98, who has been managing director of Amazon Watch. But time marches on and Jennifer has taken a new position as Executive Director of The Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala (NISGUA ). Congrats to her for the new job and all the best!
In related news, this leaves a vacancy at Amazon Watch. Interested in filling Jennifer's shoes and becoming their executive director? Deadline for applications is August 1; find the job posting here.
Tags:
In related news, this leaves a vacancy at Amazon Watch. Interested in filling Jennifer's shoes and becoming their executive director? Deadline for applications is August 1; find the job posting here.
Tags:
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Julie Housh '06: DC Job, advice, and internship opportunity
Julie Housh '06 updates us with what she's been doing, her job in DC, weighs in on the value of doing an internship and offers one to boot. Make a note of it!
Hi Professor O'Neil,
Just another P&G alum note. I've been living in D.C. since graduating in May '06 and am presently working in Rep. Rick Larsen's office (WA-02) as a staff assistant. I'm happy to help anyone who is in D.C. - visiting, interning, relocating. - or just curious about working on the Hill, living in D.C., etc.
As staff assistant I am also the intern coordinator and we're currently looking for fall interns. If it's too late for students to commit to the fall, it might be useful to start thinking about spring or summer internships, we're always in need! While the internship is unpaid, we're happy to help with school credit to make coming all the way out to D.C. worthwhile. I've attached the internship information below.
I cannot recommend an internship in politics (or anywhere) enough. I interned in D.C. the summer before my senior year and loved it; I wrote a memo that ended up becoming my senior thesis. After graduating I took another internship and landed my current job. It really is a great way to find out how things really work and decide whether or not politics is the right field for you.
Thanks so much. I really love the department blog, it's great to see what's going on and where people are.
Julie Housh
Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02)
107 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
202.225.2605
The Office of Rep. Rick Larsen (DWA02) is seeking to hire a fall intern in the Washington DC office. Candidates should have an interest in and knowledge of the legislative process, possess excellent writing and communication skills, and have an understanding of the American political system.
Interns will be responsible for projects such as writing congressional correspondence, working with federal agencies, fielding constituent phone calls and other requests. Other duties include leading Capitol building tours and providing staff with general office support. During their term, interns are encouraged to attend briefings and committee hearings of personal interest and complete individual and team goals.
If you would like to be considered for an internship, please fax your resume and cover letter to 202225-4420 or email julie.housh@mail.house.gov. If you have questions about an internship, please contact Julie Housh by email or by phone at 202225-2605.
Tags:
Hi Professor O'Neil,
Just another P&G alum note. I've been living in D.C. since graduating in May '06 and am presently working in Rep. Rick Larsen's office (WA-02) as a staff assistant. I'm happy to help anyone who is in D.C. - visiting, interning, relocating. - or just curious about working on the Hill, living in D.C., etc.
As staff assistant I am also the intern coordinator and we're currently looking for fall interns. If it's too late for students to commit to the fall, it might be useful to start thinking about spring or summer internships, we're always in need! While the internship is unpaid, we're happy to help with school credit to make coming all the way out to D.C. worthwhile. I've attached the internship information below.
I cannot recommend an internship in politics (or anywhere) enough. I interned in D.C. the summer before my senior year and loved it; I wrote a memo that ended up becoming my senior thesis. After graduating I took another internship and landed my current job. It really is a great way to find out how things really work and decide whether or not politics is the right field for you.
Thanks so much. I really love the department blog, it's great to see what's going on and where people are.
Julie Housh
Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02)
107 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
202.225.2605
The Office of Rep. Rick Larsen (DWA02) is seeking to hire a fall intern in the Washington DC office. Candidates should have an interest in and knowledge of the legislative process, possess excellent writing and communication skills, and have an understanding of the American political system.
Interns will be responsible for projects such as writing congressional correspondence, working with federal agencies, fielding constituent phone calls and other requests. Other duties include leading Capitol building tours and providing staff with general office support. During their term, interns are encouraged to attend briefings and committee hearings of personal interest and complete individual and team goals.
If you would like to be considered for an internship, please fax your resume and cover letter to 202225-4420 or email julie.housh@mail.house.gov. If you have questions about an internship, please contact Julie Housh by email or by phone at 202225-2605.
Tags:
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Eunice Lake
Monday I hiked up part of Mt Rainier with a friend who is a professor of political science at Corvinus University in Budapest. He'd just finished his first tour of the US as part of a larger international delegation of academics, journalists and parliamentarians, sponsored by the State Department, and wanted to see some mountains--something they don't really have in Hungary.
Luckily for us, Professor Sherman has been teaching a course on the mountain this summer, complete with regular hikes, and he recommended a trail that was not too strenuous for the non-athletic like myself. We were rewarded with some wonderful views and had the place almost entirely to ourselves (except the mosquitos). If you're in town, student or alum, a quick side trip to Rainier is worth it.
Friday, July 13, 2007
YourSpace in My Face in the Workplace
A piece in the Wall Street Journal on the complexities when your social network includes co-workers, including your boss. Social network software is more difficult to compartmentalize, I think, than, for example, blogs, since you can make them much more private or anonymous and only share with a few. With something like Facebook, there's just one "you" for everyone to see. Maybe we need multiple boundaries within these identities that grant levels of access, rather than the rather blunt option of simply calling everyone a "friend" (which they clearly aren't).
More confusion over the boundaries between public and private. Find the article here.
More confusion over the boundaries between public and private. Find the article here.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Melanie Choy '98 Changes Jobs
I just heard from Melanie Choy '98 that she's just taken a job with the California Endowment, whose mission is to "expand access to affordable, quality health care for underserved individuals and communities, and to promote fundamental improvements in the health status of all Californians." Melanie will be a program associate; Melanie says her job will be to review grant proposals related to "culturally competent health systems," which the Endowment defines as "ones that are engaged with and responsive to diverse individuals and communities." It sounds like a great career move and we wish her the best of luck in her new job. Another example of where a degree in political science can take you. Way to go, Melanie!
Tags:
Tags:
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
What's the Matter with College?
A lot, according to the New York Times. They've got an essay contest going in response to a piece penned with the title above. You can find it here. I think the essay smacks a bit too much of the notion that "college was great when I went in the (insert decade here), but now these new kids have thrown it all away"--which I think maybe every generation has felt. Compare the changes in the essay above to, for example, those that happened when the GI Bill turned colleges from institutions of elaborate rituals (like freshman hazing) into places dominated by war vets who wanted to get a degree and get on with their lives, with little patience for such "rules".
Or maybe I'm wrong. Read the essay and let me know what you think.
On a related note, I'd observe that the NYT essay itself and its connection to MTV is an attempt by the newspaper to capture a younger demographic, one that is turning away from newspaper reading. Maybe they are hoping that by provoking students they'll pique their interest, though that presumes they read about this essay in the NYT in the first place--a bit of a catch-22.
Or maybe I'm wrong. Read the essay and let me know what you think.
On a related note, I'd observe that the NYT essay itself and its connection to MTV is an attempt by the newspaper to capture a younger demographic, one that is turning away from newspaper reading. Maybe they are hoping that by provoking students they'll pique their interest, though that presumes they read about this essay in the NYT in the first place--a bit of a catch-22.
Monday, July 09, 2007
AWACS
The other day I was down on Ruston Way and saw an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) plane fly overhead. This is a Boeing product, and in past I used to watch them fly over Tacoma fairly often, but it's been a while since I'd seen one. If you want to know more about them, Boeing has a good bit of information here.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
The Scoop
This was sent along by Josh Cole '09; rather than try to recap, I'll simply cut and paste. Pretty interesting idea; Josh wants to take a stab at contributing--you might want to, too.
The Scoop '08
Here, in the months to come, young people around the country are banding together to provide in-depth and engaging coverage of the unprecedented 2008 presidential race. Sign-up here.
Our Approach and Mission
Features will come in all styles, as well as in cutting-edge multimedia formats. And in addition to giving students a voice in the 2008 presidential election
and providing the world with impacting coverage of the race, we are also seeking to attempt a truly 'new kind of newspaper,' in which readers matter more than editors, in which stories come from the bottom-up, not the top-down, in which every word furthers our mission of satisfying the curiosity and real needs of our audience,
and in which innovation matters as much as, if not more than, convention.
The Scoop '08
Here, in the months to come, young people around the country are banding together to provide in-depth and engaging coverage of the unprecedented 2008 presidential race. Sign-up here.
Our Approach and Mission
Features will come in all styles, as well as in cutting-edge multimedia formats. And in addition to giving students a voice in the 2008 presidential election
and providing the world with impacting coverage of the race, we are also seeking to attempt a truly 'new kind of newspaper,' in which readers matter more than editors, in which stories come from the bottom-up, not the top-down, in which every word furthers our mission of satisfying the curiosity and real needs of our audience,
and in which innovation matters as much as, if not more than, convention.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Happy Fourth
Happy July 4 to everyone out there in the blogosphere! Be careful with those firecrackers.
Monday, July 02, 2007
EUTube
The European Union has launched its own channel on YouTube, with all sorts of videos. What kinds of things would the EU post on YouTube? Videos on
Global Warming
US-Europe Relations
Naughty Bits
The last one has raised some hackles, not surprisingly.
Global Warming
US-Europe Relations
Naughty Bits
The last one has raised some hackles, not surprisingly.
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