tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28024371879752351182024-03-13T14:20:03.221-07:0012 ILC at PENNMadeline Kronenberghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00809038721402994691noreply@blogger.comBlogger298125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-12252583598409273712012-08-27T20:52:00.001-07:002012-08-27T20:53:01.288-07:00From the Parents of Alysa Butler<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LX0hFekZdb4/UDxAUmG8ihI/AAAAAAAADGE/kcbUaZP0Kxs/s1600/Alysa+Butler+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LX0hFekZdb4/UDxAUmG8ihI/AAAAAAAADGE/kcbUaZP0Kxs/s320/Alysa+Butler+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We would classify the entire process as SIMPLY AMAZING.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am the Father of Alysa Butler and I was reflecting on
how this amazing opportunity began. I believe it was in the month of December,
2011 as we were all beginning our day. Alysa, mentioned that she would be
attending an informational assembly to be held on campus given by the ILC
Alysa, always has been very active on campus participating in different clubs
and study groups—many of which I was familiar with but I had not heard of the
Ivy League Connection. I asked, “What is the Ivy League Connection?” She said, “I
will tell you later.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When she returned home that evening. She was excited
and told us that the Ivy League Connection is a group formed by the WCCUSD that
selects students to tour some of the colleges on the East Coast and participate
in a Summer Educational Program. The ILC is planning to send two people and depart
on June 25<sup>th</sup>, 2012 and return on July 28<sup>th</sup>, 2012. I
thought, WOW!, it must be expensive. Some of the colleges that they were planning
to visit were Yale, Washington University (in St. Louis), Cornell, UPENN and
others. The lucky few would get to experience living in a dorm room.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We encouraged her to submit an application and
participate in the process. Part of the process was a meet and greet between
the ILC and Parents. We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Charles Ramsey, Mrs.
Madeline Kronenberg and Mr. Don Gosney at the meeting. Each ILC staff person
gave an overview of their role in the program and assured each parent that
their child would be safe. The dorms were staffed with security 24 hrs a day
whose responsibility was to monitor the premises for the safety or the
residents. All ILC participants would receive three meals per day and have
supervision by a chaperone. This information eased the apprehension and eased
the stress. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There had been a series of interviews of Alysa's
instructors at school and recommendations and finally through the process of
elimination there were eight students selected as finalists. However, only two
lucky people would be able to represent the school at the Academy of Physics at
UPENN. Alysa came home one day and said, we have to be at El Cerrito High
School at 5 PM. She announced that she had made it to the final
interview. She seemed very calm but I was nervous enough for both of us.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYZNQDh-GMY/UDxATOsr-5I/AAAAAAAADF8/sTAGaCIMMOw/s1600/%252712+Physics+Interview-128-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OYZNQDh-GMY/UDxATOsr-5I/AAAAAAAADF8/sTAGaCIMMOw/s400/%252712+Physics+Interview-128-DG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We ate a little dinner and hurried off to the final
interview. Upon our arrival as we searched for the room we were becoming
anxious because we did not want to be late for the interview but some of the
doors were locked. Finally we located the room. We were not the last to arrive.
Then a familiar face, Don Gosney, he was brought refreshments and let us know
that the interviewing staff was running a few minutes late. Don informed us of
the process to be followed. He informed us that we would draw numbers from a
cup to establish a numerical order for interviews.</span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Alysa drew number five. The interviews began number
one, two, three, with each interview lasting longer than the first. Then number
four which I though would never end. Finally, number five. I offered a few
words of encouragement to Alysa and told her how much I love her and to do her
best. I was a nervous wreck. Alysa, though, seemed very calm throughout the
entire process. I began to realize that she was confident, that she would do
well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She returned after what seemed like an eternity. I asked
how did you do? She said OK but did not want to talk about the process because
there were still three prospective people to interview in the room. After all
interviews were complete we all took a 10 minute break. After the break all
participants and their parents were asked to go across the hall to the interview
room We all met the interviewers which consisted of some professors, community
business people and teachers<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After all the introductions were complete they
announced the two final people to become part of the Ivy League Connection.
SIMPLY AMAZING! Alysa Butler was named as one of the two people selected. I was
overjoyed for her. As we drove home I became more and more excited for her.
Slowly I began to realize she had never been gone from home for such a long
period of time nor had she been so far away.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The next meeting was with Don Gosney. There were
consent forms to sign and packets of information that needed to be faxed to
UPENN (that was the school Alysa was selected to attend). She would become part
of the advanced Physics Academy. WOW! SIMPLY AMAZING. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We managed to get all the paperwork done and returned
in a timely manner. We had a final meeting and met the Chaperone Mr. Ian
Lawrence. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Ramsey, Mrs.
Kronenberg, Mr. Gosney and Mr. Lawrence for the care and concern given to my
daughter throughout the entire process, THANK YOU<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On the Morning of 06/25/12 at approx 3:30 AM they were
off to catch their flight at San Francisco Airport to Philadelphia, PA. Throughout
the next month I was in contact with my daughter regularly. I was never concerned
about her safety and welfare because I was confident that the Ivy League Connection
would watch over her. She met many diverse groups of people and got the
opportunity to interact with them academically and socially. She experienced
riding the trains of New York City and has been to some places that will enrich
her personally.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">THANK YOU,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Denise & Kerry Butler</span></span><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: Times; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-27632770889730149172012-08-22T17:43:00.000-07:002012-08-24T09:32:05.555-07:00From Cameron Fulton's Aunt<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">The
Ivy League Connection was very valuable for Cameron in so many ways. It has
taught him that perseverance pays off with a feeling of great accomplishment.
His uncle and I believe that he now realizes that it is so easy to give up on a
goal or a dream. There are no regrets however, when you know that you have done
all you know to do to reach your destination and it comes to reality. It has
given Cameron a sense of pride and growth in so many areas. He is learning
accountability and responsibility to a higher level. Being involved with the ILC
has stirred some self motivation in him to manage his time more effectively,
developing skills needed to succeed in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-EQIsG9qmE/UDesUbZV2MI/AAAAAAAADCo/jHRkwAzzuwY/s1600/Cameron+Fulton+for+the+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-EQIsG9qmE/UDesUbZV2MI/AAAAAAAADCo/jHRkwAzzuwY/s400/Cameron+Fulton+for+the+Blog.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Before
the ILC, Cameron had expressed that he did not want to leave California for
college. Now he is very open to venture out. He enjoyed meeting students from
other countries as well as other states. He learned time management with
getting to class on time, understanding that the ritual he goes through with
getting dressed for the day does not need to take so long. I laughed at his
blog where he said, “I learned how to get to class from my bed in 30 minutes.”</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">His
experiences with the different outings were unforgettable. The restaurants, the
different types of food he was exposed to and the willingness to try them shows
growth. Cameron, like myself, had issues with trying anything new, especially
if it looks different from what we are used to (e.g. pig face). Now he is more
adventuresome in that area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">His
dorm life, and meeting new people was such a great experience for him that he
now is willing to go out of state to school. He is very interested in Northwestern
University, as it has everything that interests him. They have mechanical
engineering, D1 sports as he plays baseball, and they have a great music
department. He plays saxophone and loves jazz. He will be applying to UPenn,
and NYU as well just to name a few of his choices.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">We
would like to sincerely thank Charles Ramsey, Madeline Kronenberg, and Don
Gosney for this great opportunity for Cameron. It has given him the belief that
he too can succeed in the environment of an Ivy League University, and this
experience will last him a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">Thank
you again, ILC<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Karen
Bolden</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Cameron Fultonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06640467772102196929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-88521490910207884032012-08-22T10:41:00.004-07:002012-08-22T10:49:42.261-07:00From the Mother of David Barba<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hU3vQI7vBQA/UDUZq9iCYKI/AAAAAAAAC-c/6YOgHaNXTQM/s1600/David+Barba+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hU3vQI7vBQA/UDUZq9iCYKI/AAAAAAAAC-c/6YOgHaNXTQM/s320/David+Barba+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I first heard about the Ivy League
Connection when David came home one day from school and just started talking
about it. I was amazed that there was a program like the Ivy League Connection
right in our school district, helping our students go beyond their full
capabilities. I had my doubts of the program being a full scholarship because
it was an Ivy League program, but David took me straight to the ILC website to
prove. I have always wanted my children to have a better life than me: to
explore the world, to have no worries, and be happy. The only way for them to
reach this was by education, so I pushed David to go for the program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After our conversation about the
ILC, I knew it in my heart he would get accepted because he stopped doing his
regular activities during the winter break and was focused on the program. His
face was so focused on getting in, that when I finally heard that he had made
the interview, I was glad to see him smiling again. The interview process was
really nerve racking having to wait for everyone to go up, and then an extra
hour for the final decisions. While we waited, I can remember him being ready
to jump out of his chair, thinking that he was not going to be accepted. I
remained hopeful and told him that he still had a chance because he gives
himself high standards, and from personal experience as being his mother, he
almost always does very well. As the results were being announced, he was
surprised to have been accepted. The night ended with excitement for the whole
family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ojr0dyYWik/UDUZp0guQaI/AAAAAAAAC-U/E34mfJWEtfI/s1600/%252712+Physics+Interview-124A-DG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ojr0dyYWik/UDUZp0guQaI/AAAAAAAAC-U/E34mfJWEtfI/s640/%252712+Physics+Interview-124A-DG.jpg" width="640" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the months passed, along with each
of the events, I could see David’s excitement towards the program. I was a bit
nervous myself as a mother, because he has never been away from home for more
than a one or two days. The physics program was a month, which made me worry
once he was there. After talking with him for the first week, his voice sounded
very excited and I could tell by the blogs that he was having lots of fun,
which helped take away my worries. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The ILC has opened the world to
David, which he was able to do because he always worked hard in school. My
family would like to thank Mr. Ramsey, Don Gosney, and Ms. Kronenberg for
giving David this wonderful opportunity and for their dedication to help the
students of our community to go beyond California. I would also like to thank Ian
Lawrence, his chaperone, for the excellent care of the students. David seems
more ambitious than ever now, because the Ivy League Connection has shown him
hard work does pay off. Once again, thank you to everyone from the Ivy League
Connection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Silvia Barba</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-27146771088011637622012-08-22T10:16:00.000-07:002012-08-22T10:16:01.638-07:00From the Mother of Mariko Whitenack
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VirLiEelGbA/UDUTtRoZItI/AAAAAAAAC84/Mf_x3CFHRU8/s1600/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VirLiEelGbA/UDUTtRoZItI/AAAAAAAAC84/Mf_x3CFHRU8/s320/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I would first like to express
appreciation for the extraordinary opportunities the ILC program provides
WCCUSD students. When Mariko first
heard of the ILC program two years ago, I was impressed that a program of such vision
and scope existed in the WCCUSD. As
a graduate of El Cerrito High School many years ago, I was one of many
classmates who applied only to the University of California Berkeley and did
not even consider applying to any universities outside of California. The entire ILC process requires that
students demonstrate maturity and personal responsibility, including time
management and interpersonal skills.
The ILC application requires that applicants develop thoughtful written
and verbal responses to challenging questions. The ILC dinners expose students
to alumni from select schools who describe their experiences of undergraduate,
postgraduate, and career choices. Through helping to develop the U Penn group
blog site and arrange for college tour dinners, Mariko was required to deal
with the challenging responsibility of meeting deadlines and arranging
logistics. The college tours and
the mentorship programs allow the students to interact with admissions officers,
current students, and alumni; to become familiar with expectations of the
application and selection process; and to hear individual insights into the
academic, cultural, and social environments of specific colleges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tsIfeolrs9w/UDUTuRw5kaI/AAAAAAAAC9A/IfVtcF27LhQ/s1600/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tsIfeolrs9w/UDUTuRw5kaI/AAAAAAAAC9A/IfVtcF27LhQ/s320/Mariko+Whitenack+Headshot-2C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was excited when Mariko applied
to and was accepted to the ILC program in experimental physics at the
University of Pennsylvania.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Experimental physics seemed like an ideal subject for Mariko to apply
the enthusiasm for math that she had gained from many exceptional math classes
at ECHS to a field with so many real life applications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mariko’s experience attending the
4-week experimental physics course was phenomenal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The curriculum, faculty, and lab facility were exceptional.
The course enabled her to get a sense of the level of academic preparation and
dedication experienced at selective universities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rigorous course provided Mariko an opportunity to
process the strengths and challenges of her WCCUSD education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She also experienced the gender
composition of her class, which reflected that of a field marked by one of the
lowest representations of women in the sciences. While she reported initial
challenges, she emerged with an increased sense of confidence as well as
perspective as to which sorts of colleges might provide the academic, physical,
and social environment with the best fit. The visits to Washington University
in St. Louis, the University of Chicago, and Northwestern University enabled
Mariko to consider opportunities in regions of the country she had never
experienced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I appreciate the dedication and
efforts of Charles, Don, and Madeline in developing, coordinating, and
sustaining the ILC program for WCCUSD.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many thanks also to Ian for taking excellent care of the U Penn group of
students.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope that the
returning ILC students take the opportunity to share with their fellow students
their experiences of the opportunities that selective colleges offer, the
academic rigor required, and intellectual rewards gained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mariko is extremely fortunate to have
benefited from the life-changing experience the ILC has afforded her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The WCCUSD ILC program serves as a
model that many other school districts could seek to emulate to provide such
invaluable experiences to their students.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Catherine Chin</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-24823938887807778012012-08-19T12:39:00.001-07:002012-08-19T12:39:14.104-07:00From the Father of Clara Lengacher
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xfluzeGbslA/UDFAxd59yuI/AAAAAAAAC6U/UBXIyS8r-vw/s1600/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-4C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xfluzeGbslA/UDFAxd59yuI/AAAAAAAAC6U/UBXIyS8r-vw/s320/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-4C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I wanted to share my perspectives about my
daughter, Clara Lengacher’s experience at the ILC Experimental Physics
Discovery at UPenn this summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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To start, I feel that this program is creative,
forward thinking and exactly the type of program that we should be seeing more
of in the educational community. Partnerships with institutions of higher
learning are vital to the articulation, matriculation and improved success of
our students. The combination of social skills, networking, and the high
quality of the educational experiences should be accessible to all and I feel
this program opens doors for our young people to make connections, experience
social interaction in a way that they might not be accustomed to, and pursue a specific
subject of interest to them.</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">From my experience at the kick off dinner and
discussions with various alumni of UPenn and major donors to ILC, I was
encouraged about the state of education in our community and heartened to know
that it extends across the country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzDAPUyhXHU/UDFAwcHRX-I/AAAAAAAAC6M/V9oaGeC6Plk/s1600/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-3C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzDAPUyhXHU/UDFAwcHRX-I/AAAAAAAAC6M/V9oaGeC6Plk/s320/Clara+Lengacher+Headshot-3C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">I Skyped with my daughter every week and was
updated on the amazing things they were doing in class, the people she met
within the program and during visits to the other schools besides UPenn, and
about the new folks she met in her Physics program, not just from all over the
United States, but the World. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">My only constructive criticism of the entire
process is that perhaps the interactions between the ILC staff and the
students, in public forums, could be administered in a more respectful fashion.
I witnessed an interaction at the dinner at La Folie that I felt was somewhat
degrading and embarrassing to the individual. I realize the importance of
developing their social skills in a short amount of time, but wonder if this could
be done in a more mindful and respectful manner. I don’t think there is any
benefit in dressing down a young person if front of their peers or adults that
they may or may not know. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Thank you for your vision, time and energy in
thinking outside the box, creating valuable opportunities for the students of
this district, and for changing the lives of those individuals fortunate enough
to participate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Bruce Lengacher</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-51817186203256156192012-08-18T08:59:00.001-07:002012-08-18T08:59:33.721-07:00From the Mother of Chloe Alston<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C57hE4yjhAA/UCNoDUqWc3I/AAAAAAAACwk/8OCvfPYxrHs/s1600/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-1C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C57hE4yjhAA/UCNoDUqWc3I/AAAAAAAACwk/8OCvfPYxrHs/s320/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-1C.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In Chloe’s sophomore year, I had heard about a program called the Ivy League Connection (ILC) and thought that Chloe should definitely be a part of it during her Junior year (I didn’t know it was offered to Sophomores). In the Winter Semester of her Junior year, Chloe came home one day and told me she had missed out on her opportunity to apply to the ILC program because she had not been invited to the informational meeting. Our hearts sank, as it was something she was really looking forward to. She tried gracefully and yet unsuccessfully to let it go, but then a new opportunity arose. I had spoken to Chloe’s 8th grade math teacher, Ms. Nakahara, who was one of the ILC interviewers about Chloe’s disappointment, she got in touch with Don Gosney and mentioned Chloe’s situation, and we learned that a new program – the Social Justice Program at the University of Pennsylvania – was being offered and that she could still apply. It was a stroke of luck!!! Chloe got right on it, wrote her essays, was interviewed and got in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It sounds easy, but it wasn’t. There are some who believe that the students who apply and go through this process are subject to criticisms and held to expectations that are too high, however, I believe the strenuousness actually helped Chloe understand the brevity of this academic opportunity and what would be expected of her in a college-level atmosphere. She began to scrutinize her actions knowing that depending on them, doors to her future dreams could either open or close. The leaders of the ILC enabled Chloe to be exposed to and embrace possibilities for her future that she had not yet fully considered herself to be a part of. She realized she needed to work hard, stay focused, and be determined to be chosen and maintain her position. It is a program that opens the eyes of our students here in the WCCUSD beyond their everyday reality. It inspires kids to reach beyond their comfort zone and strive for something higher. The continued expectation by the ILC of the students to communicate the experience through blogging and to be representatives for the district also pushes our students to publically share and keep up the momentum of all that they have learned and gained from their experiences—to become a voice for opportunity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uINNtEwERgk/UCNoE7i6IHI/AAAAAAAACws/5vCM80qO5bI/s1600/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-2C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uINNtEwERgk/UCNoE7i6IHI/AAAAAAAACws/5vCM80qO5bI/s320/Chloe+Alston+Headshot-2C.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chloe’s experience in Professor Lamas’ Social Justice Program has expanded her way of thinking. It has furthered her ability to think critically about the world around her and to take an active role in changing herself and her environment for the better. She was in a class with 30 international students, studying under the guidance of teachers from all over the world. She was exposed to world-wide issues of poverty, racism, sexism, capitalism, amongst others and taught strategies by which to analyze these issues locally and communicate solutions. The strategies provided also encouraged her to question her own thinking and how she has viewed and now views herself and her place in the world. The Social Justice Program is an invaluable addition to the ILC as it enables our students to actively find their voice and learn to interact in the communities in which they and their families live.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I know a lot of hard work goes into the ILC, and I am so grateful to all those who participate in creating and maintaining this incredible opportunity for our students in the WCCUSD. Don, Charles, and Madeline for spearheading the program, all of the interviewers for taking the time out to care about our kids, Ian for being a fantastic chaperone, the University of Pennsylvania and donors for sponsoring Chloe, and Professor Lamas and Michael for providing incredible guidance and opening up your hearts! Thank you all!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sincerely,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Kai Weber (Chloe’s mom)</span></div>
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Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-34383938584337362602012-08-05T10:25:00.001-07:002012-08-05T10:25:01.121-07:00The PENNCAP Pre-Freshman Program (Part 1)<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; line-height: 13px;"><i><b>Note:</b> I am currently an incoming freshman to the class of 2016 in the University of Pennsylvania. I've had the honor of representing Pinole Valley High School as a participant of the Ivy League Connection in both my sophomore year ("Freedom and Justice" at Cornell University, 2010) and my junior year ("Studies in Grand Strategy" at Yale University, 2011). This summer, I am taking part in Penn's Pre-Freshmen Program, <a href="http://www.vpul.upenn.edu/aap/penncap/">PENNCAP</a> (Pennsylvania College Achievement Program) One of it's many purposes includes preparing incoming students from low-income or first-generation backgrounds for their college years ahead - much like the ILC in it's continued mission of providing WCCUSD high school students with the opportunity to experience out-of state college life by studying at such institutions during a summer.</i></span></div>
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While it isn't always sunny in Philly during the summer seasons, one can often spot a rainbow shortly after the rain, and the view from the Harrison Residential Rooftop Lounge is one of the best spot to be for it.</div>
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Looking down at a part of Penn's campus from the Harrison High Rise.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">A lesser-known side to the thrill of college acceptance is the summer incoming-freshmen spend getting ready for college. After all the “congratulations” and warm wishes, it’s almost as if the party’s finally died down, the guests have all left, and the celebrated host of the party is left awkwardly surveying the aftermath of what appears to be a pretty daunting task ahead.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 13px;">Starting the year off on a good note can make all the difference in your first year – perhaps even your entire time – at college. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 13px;">The better prepared and more informed you are of what is to come not only saves a tremendous amount of time in trial-and-error lessons, but also serves as a great advantage. Like preparing notes the night before class or packing a day before travel, the more thought you put into ensuring your first few days in college runs as smoothly as possible, the less likely you will find yourself scrambling to get settled in and balancing your demanding schedule at the same time.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">Throughout this stressful season, many students turn to their supportive parents or older college friends for advice, asking anything from, “How do I go about setting up my own bank account?” to “what do I need to buy for my dorm?” In time, things will start to come together and once you’ve made it on campus, you’re largely set.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">But what of those first-generation students? What of those students who have parents who are just as confused – if not more so – than they are? What of those incredibly busy student athletes who have to balance both their athletic and academic expectations throughout their four years?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 13px;">At the University of Pennsylvania, a Pre-Freshman Program known as PENNCAP offers similar type students an opportunity to transition as smoothly as possible to the college lifestyle. Participants are selected by the staff in May to essentially start college about four weeks in advance. While there is an academic component at the center of it – every student will be taking three college-level introductory courses with actual Penn faculty – this program includes social events to help students familiarize themselves with West Philadelphia, and it also exposes them to some of the most beneficial resources around campus. Students ultimately develop their own schedules according to the dining plan, course schedules, and planned social events already set by </span><span style="line-height: 13px;">PENNCAP, and it is in their best interest to explore which studying style fits best along the way.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">As an upcoming freshman that’s currently finishing up my first week with PENNCAP, it didn’t take long for me to immediately see some of the lasting benefits this opportunity has already given me. Though they may not be very obvious at first, I know they will be become the rare gift I’ll treasure throughout my next four years at Penn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">When school begins this September 5<sup>th</sup>, Nursing students and Division I Athletes will suddenly become rare species on campus, but I will have already made connections with some of them prior to the beginning of class. The much-anticipated Move-in Day for all freshmen will definitely be less stressful and confusing for me, thanks to the prior exposure I’ve had of both the campus and the surrounding areas. Having the chance to meet faculty members at mixers, sit in on classes taught by Penn professors, and chat with current Penn students, has definitely made me more comfortable in a new envir</span><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 13px;">onment that I sometimes still feel is almost too intimidating to fully absorb.</span></div>
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Fellow PENNCAP students prepare for one of our first events: a trolley tour of the surrounding Penn area.</div>
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Independence Hall</div>
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Philadelphia Chinatown</div>
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One of the many beautiful murals in Philadelphia.</div>
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I love that there are so many museums and exhibits around me. The best part? Penn students get discounts!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But as I found myself getting through PENNCAP day by day with the same optimism and determination to do better than yesterday, I could feel my own rhythm connecting to that of Penn. I could feel myself becoming more confident by the sheer knowledge that I was now familiar with my surroundings and thus, gravitated myself to the next level of making my presence known. “This is your one shot,” Professor Robert Ghrist (he will be one of my professors this upcoming Fall) reminded all of us at the Plenary Session, “Academic Finesse”, and I find myself repeating it in my head everyday like a mantra because it’s truly how I see my next four years.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">PENNCAP is giving me a preview of academic life at Penn and so far, I find all of them incredibly helpful. Because I am in the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), I was enrolled in a class schedule that included Math, Writing, and Psychology courses (students of the College were also given the option to take Biology instead of Psychology if they had an interest to pursue a Pre-Health plan at Penn). Wharton students were enrolled in Math, Management &amp; Communication, Writing, and Economics courses, and Nursing students were enrolled in Writing, Nursing Science, and Clinical Experience courses. Though the courses are challenging (every class will be graded though not transferred into our actual transcripts) the main objective is to prepare us for what is to come in our respective colleges within Penn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">Additionally, these classes mean so much more beyond their academic benefits. Thanks to PENNCAP, we are able to familiarize ourselves to the college classroom environment as well as practice approaching our Professors correctly – a very important, but tough, skill to master – all before school’s officially begun. We’re learning how to manage our time well, learning to make sacrifices where we see fit and learning that there truly is no one there to shadow you anymore with reminders and deadlines. Subconsciously, we’re learning to become adults but all while defining what it personally means for us along the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">College is not high school, and one advice incoming-freshmen and freshmen should know and accept immediately is that, even though everything seems a lot harder than high school, you were admitted into your college because you possess the ability to excel there. This might mean you have to work harder than others, or it might mean you have to replace a lot of bad habits with new ones, but the point is, college is supposed to be challenging and being knocked down more times than you’re used to will only better you if you choose to learn from them every time it happens. Never doubt that you were somehow misplaced into the institution you worked so hard to get yourself in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">I admit that my first two days of PENNCAP classes was quite intimidating. I was still getting used to my environment, still double-checking my directions, and still solidifying my growing friendships. The uncertainty of what was to come and my tendency to put pressure on myself invited doubt. But thanks to the advice and support I’ve received from the PENNCAP staff – who always have their arms stretched out to us and our interests in mind – I was able to turn this natural discomfort into a source of personal strength.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">One of my favorite aspects of PENNCAP thus far is being able to come so close to observe the true nature of Penn people. In addition to the warm and friendly PENNCAP staff, I’ve had the chance to meet librarians, advisors, professors, and more – all without the pressure typically embedded in the stressful Fall season. In the summer, there are less people and this offers a golden opportunity to get a head-start in networking. It helps too that Penn people, in general, care. Nearly every Penn faculty I’ve met so far has their heart already reserved for the interest of others and such support, I’ve realized, makes all the difference in one’s college experience. As Ms. Doris Cochran-Fikes, who helped welcome us on the first day with such memorable advice as to simply smile as often as possible, puts it: “Feel the love.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 13px;">There’s still about three more weeks left of PENNCAP, so there’s still so much more to learn. Despite the pressure that will definitely kick in nearing my exams and papers, I’m taking each day with 100% effort.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: small; line-height: 13px;">On the first day of PENNCAP, someone by the name of Reverend William Gibson came before all of us – and some of our parents who were invited to join in on opening session – to introduce the sort of adventure we are to embark on in the next four years. As a first-generation, incoming freshman (c/o 2016) from the small town of Pinole, CA, I am absolutely thrilled to begin my “great…grand…good….and grace-filled” adventure that is the University of Pennsylvania.</span></div>
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Greetings from the Philadelphia Museum of Art!</div>
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</div>Don Gosneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17110247579694408858noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-28770192564625312242012-08-01T12:54:00.001-07:002012-08-01T12:54:16.808-07:00I Will Never Forget This Summer<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">To have
this journey come to an end is a bit strange for me. I remember hearing about the ILC from my
friend Ava Burnell during our Sophomore year, and I knew that this was a program
I wanted to be a part of at the end of my Junior year. Well, things did not turn out as planned when
this opportunity presented itself, and I almost missed out on one of the
greatest experiences in my life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I can
recall sitting in Calculus one morning, when suddenly an office T.A comes into
the room and hands out call slips to a number of students. All of those students were asked to leave for
the theater immediately for some presentation, so they all filed out of the
classroom. When I realized that
literally all of the Juniors in the classroom, besides Ava Burnell and I had
left, I was extremely confused; especially after I learning, much later, that
the assembly was for an ILC presentation.
Missing this event almost caused me to entirely miss out on the program,
but thanks to my former math teacher from Portola, Ms. Nakahara, I was
introduced to Don Gosney and learned that there was one more summer class
available at the University of Pennsylvania: The Social Justice Research
Academy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">I must say that I was a little nervous during the application process, primarily because of the interview. Don sent out a set of sample questions beforehand, which helped me out immensely. I had mock interviews with my mom and aunt using those questions as well as some additional ones they came up with; these prepared me for the real interview more than I imagined at first. When the day came to actually be interviewed, I was still extremely nervous, but I put on my best outfit, calmed myself down, and headed into the third floor classroom at El Cerrito High School, which was to be the waiting room. Already, I felt just a bit less nervous when I saw how they laid out all of these snacks for us, and even less when Don came in and I was able to meet him in person for the first time. He was very kind to us and told us not to worry because everyone in that other room was on our side. After a little while, most of my nerves had calmed, and I felt excited to get in there for the interview. I ended up being the first one to be interviewed, which made my nerves rise again, but I tried to walk into the room with confidence. The interview was very professional, but I still could tell that the 10 or so people in the room asking me questions were in fact on my side; they were just trying to get a sense of who I really was, and what I would be able to give back to the program. Once those 17 minutes were over, I felt a bit relieved, but I was anxious to hear what they thought of me. By the time every applicant had gone, I already felt more comfortable because everyone was so nice, despite the competition. When we were finally called into the other room to hear the results, I almost screamed out of joy because my name was the first one they announced! I remember how incredibly excited I was to hear that I had gotten this scholarship and it still makes me smile. Cameron Fulton and Ivette Alejandre were the other two students who had received a scholarship for the Social Justice class, and we were all smiling while Don went over the rules of the program. What made me super excited at the end of the night was when Ivette was getting ready to leave and then she said that we were going to be best friends. I am so happy to say that she ended up being right, because I have become incredibly close to her and Cameron, as well as the physics students: Clara, David, Alysa, and Mariko. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">This
program was absolutely perfect for me because I already focus on issues of
Social Justice with my dance company, Destiny Arts, and I was interested in
gaining a deeper understanding of the world around me. Although I was nervous to begin the class when
we first arrived in Philadelphia, I soon felt extremely comfortable because
Prof. Lamas is such an incredible teacher.
He and Michael truly widened my view of the world and got me thinking
much more critically about events occurring all over the globe. Our field trips provided amazing insight into
the local neighborhoods of Philadelphia. I began to understand how deeply
rooted the problems of these areas are, and how they are connected to the
larger issues people face all around the world today. This class has given me time to grow into
myself in such unbelievable ways, and I cannot thank Prof. Lamas and our other
teachers enough for that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">However,
I would not even have had this opportunity if it had not been for the
incredible hard work of Don Gosney, Madeline Kronenberg, and Charles
Ramsey. Together they truly create life
changing opportunities for us young students, and I am forever grateful. They set up a trip where not only do we
students get to take amazing classes at Ivy League universities, but we have an
entire week prior to those classes, during which we have very memorable dinners
with current members of three other universities. On my trip, I was able to have one-on-one
conversations with students and admissions officers from Washington University
in St. Louis, the University of Chicago, and Northwestern University. All of the people I met were kind and helped
me understand why they love the school they attend. After that one week, I had a much more
complete idea of what school I want to attend, which will definitely be one on
the East Coast. I cannot thank Don,
Madeline, and Charles enough for this life changing opportunity, and it is
because of the Ivy League Connection that I now know exactly how to reach my
college goals and, in turn, create a life for myself that will allow me to make
a difference in this world. Thank you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Chloe Alstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15491385213357510420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-6323477269666380552012-08-01T10:05:00.001-07:002012-08-06T10:47:05.591-07:00Vicariousness<div style="text-align: justify;">
I remember hearing about the ILC years ago when I was a freshman in high school. I was too young to actually join the ILC , but my parents started to prep me for it in advance.By my association with Andrew Gonzales, who attended the ILC two years before me, prepared me as well. Andrew didn't know much about the program until my uncle(Ronald Bolden) brought it to his attention. Andrew took the opportunity and was selected for the program. The next thing that I experienced through Andrew was that there were essays to be written followed by interviews if selected. I wasn't surprised that Andrew was selected tome very excited because that could be me my sophomore year , which was approaching.</div>
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When Andrew returned from Cornell, I saw a lot of pictures, while he shared his experience with me. I became very excited at the possible opportunity to be a participant of this program , as I to wanted to have that same experience.</div>
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As the time came around my sophomore year, I wasn't selected . I was disappointed , however, I knew that I had one more year to apply. In preparation for this year, I knew that my grades had to be maintained so I would be selected. Andrew's second year he attended Brown University , going through the same process ,of essay's followed by interviews. I noticed that more students that I knew were being accepted.It was very ironic that , the people being accepted from my school , were all on the Speech and debate team, which I am also apart of.</div>
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When Andrew came back from Brown , I received a lot of information of how Brown was , along with a comparison of the two campuses . I was really appreciative to have been able to be in the ILC vicariously through Andrew. Now that his time was done with the ILC , it was time for me to join.</div>
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When my Junior year started I was well prepared for the ILC. When it came time to apply , I was one of the ones selected! This was a big confidence booster and made me very happy. The meeting with Don Gosney was very intriguing , and was similar to the things that Andrew told me about.</div>
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The next thing I knew, I was in my room writing my and then ripping up papers. I was going to try Physics and biotechnology. When I got my final copies , I submitted them and waited anxiously.</div>
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Soon after , I received an email of the students who were going to be interviewed. I was on the list! I was very happy once again. A few days later , I found myself in a suit heading to El Cerrito high school for my interview. The process was tedious as it was a long process waiting for your turn. There were 8 students in a room shaking while they waited for their turn. Each of them came back with a frown saying they did bad. While waiting your turn you automatically think your going to do bad, because of the reactions of your peers.</div>
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When it was my turn to interview, the questions other than physics were easily answered. That is the main reason I think I was not accepted into the Physics and Biotechnology program. </div>
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I decided that I was going to persevere even though I was not accepted into the programs that I really wanted. With the help of Don Gosney , I decided to write an essay for Presidential Powers. I was accepted , and my confidence was boosted, because I knew what to expect from the interviews. Sad to say, I didn't make it, but I was glad that my close friends did. When you think you want to give up, that's when you need to persevere. I learned this when I decided to apply for the last possible program , which was Social Justice. I was accepted to go to the next level which was the interview. I thought my interview went well , and I was right. I was so elated to hear my name come out as one of the selected students. This was the start to a long journey.</div>
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A lot of papers were signed, introductions to city counsel members, and attending school board meetings , were all apart of the process. </div>
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I was so glad that I was able to be one of blessed recipients of this lovely program. I experienced a lot of things that I would not have otherwise been exposed to. I want to thank everyone that is apart of this wonderful program.Thank you Don Gosney for providing all the things that we needed,such as valuable information, as well as the equipment for a month long stay. Also being so dedicated to the program and most of all, our futures. Also thank you Mr. Charles Ramsey for staying on me when I became a little lazy, and also wanting what is best for me and my future. I can not thank everyone individually , but everyone that has contributed towards the ILC, thank you because you have played a big part in my life recently and has been a huge eye opener to what I want for my future. I know now what to expect at a higher level of education and what it takes to succeed. Discipline , focus, determination , and perseverance are all keys to be successful in any en-devour I embark upon. Thank you ILC.</div>Cameron Fultonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06640467772102196929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-32059145452672153282012-08-01T01:25:00.001-07:002012-08-01T01:25:50.255-07:00An Unforgettable Summer<br />
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I remember sitting quietly during Mr. Gosney's presentation of the Ivy League Connection at my high school. It feels as though it was just yesterday when I first heard about this program. I was amazed that there was a program like this available for my school district, and that I qualified! </div>
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The application process seemed quite simple. You wrote an essay for the program you wanted following the essay prompt for that specific program that was sent out by Mr. Gosney. If your essay was chosen, you'd then go through an interview. If you made it past the interview, well then you made it.</div>
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I was so surprised when I got the email telling me I had made it to the interview for social justice at Penn. I had already gone through two interviews for two other programs. There was a huge difference between the Penn interview and the interviews for the other two programs. That difference being my confidence level. For the first two interviews I was extremely nervous, and I went in there already believing I would not get the spot. I don't know what made me change my state of mind for the third interview, but I'm so glad it did! I could tell the difference in the way I answered the questions, the way I positioned my body, and I had a huge smile across my face for the majority of my interview. I walked out of the interview room with my head held high. When it was time to announce which three out of the seven applicants were chosen, I still felt quite confident. During the past two times that I had gone through that part, I was sure I wasn't going to get it. I just couldn't imagine it, I was sure that there was no way that I would ever win something like that. That is why I found it so strange that I wasn't nervous that third time around. When my name was called, I didn't know how to react. Of course I was happy, but I wasn't sure what other feelings were there, shock maybe a bit of disbelief.</div>
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Three and a half months later we embarked on our journey together. Mariko, Clara, Chloe, Cameron, Alysa, David, and Mr. Lawrence, these were the people I'd be spending the next thirty-five days with. That first week together was one of the best weeks I've ever had. Every dinner, every campus tour, every plane ride, and every minute just brought the Penn team closer together. I had no idea how close we'd all be by the end of the trip, we became a family. Every dinner was an experience, and I mean that in the best way possible. Dinning with the college students and college administrators was very helpful. I am a rising junior, so before this trip I really hadn't given much thought to which college I'd like to attend. Thanks to that first week, not only am I really serious about college now, but I now know where I'd like to apply!</div>
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When the second week came around I was both sad and excited. The second week meant moving into our dorms and beginning our classes at Penn, but it also meant that we would no longer be spending as much time together.</div>
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The next four weeks cannot be described in just one word. My social justice class was mind blowing. There could not have been a more perfect class out there for me. I was so drawn in during every class session, every discussion, every field trip, and every presentation. We covered such a wide range of topics in the class, so no two days were ever the same. I think the reason why the class was so great was because of the people who were teaching it, Prof Lamas and Michael. This was the first year this class was offered at Penn, and I think Prof. Lamas did an amazing job when putting it together. He and Michael made sure that we, the students, were always involved. They created such a special classroom environment where it felt like there was no higher authority, we were all equal. From day one we were encouraged to speak up. We tried to create judgement-free environment where nobody was afraid to say what they thought. </div>
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There were so many things to do outside of the classroom. Summer Discovery, the program that provided the classes, made sure there was always some fun activity going on. Every single day there was something different. Along with the activities available, every Friday was movie night, and every Saturday we went on a day trip. Those day trips include a visit to New York and Time's Square, Georgetown, and Ocean City, New Jersey. If you didn't want to participate in their daily activities, their five story gym was a two minute walk away and Center City (shopping) was also available.</div>
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The whole journey was incredible. Now that I'm home it feels as though it was all one amazing dream. The diverse group of people I met, perfect class, delicious food, and beautiful campus, it is all a part of an unforgettable experience. I learned so much in such little time. There is a whole world out there outside of my community, and I can be a part of it. It's possible for me to do whatever I want in life, to reach every goal , and accomplish every dream. I just have to keep working hard, to never feel like what I'm doing won't pay off in the future because it will.</div>
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I know this is the first year that the social justice program was offered by the ILC, and that they aren't sure yet if they should offer it again next year, so to all of those wondering whether to continue it or not, I say YES. A million times yes! The class really is life changing, and I'd hate for my group to be the only group of students to experience it. It is worth it.</div>
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I want to take time now to say thank you to everybody who made this summer possible. Thank you to Don Gosney, Charles Ramsey, and Madeline Kronenberg for such an amazing organization. The Ivy League Connection has really changed my life! The donors who made it all possible! Your money is doing something incredible for the lives of so many teenagers! You aren't just giving us a fun summer, you are opening doors for us. Prof. Lamas, Michael, and Nantina, you put together a great class! Thank you for treating me as an equal instead of a student, and thank you for providing the class that you did! Summer Discovery, Ed Healy, thank you for making my four weeks at Penn so much fun! And to everybody else who was involved in making it all possible, thank you so much! I would have never had the chance to do what I did this summer if it weren't for you all!</div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Ivette Alejandrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12381095467259451779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-41438166320284047912012-07-31T21:23:00.002-07:002012-07-31T21:34:14.784-07:00A Summer Well SpentTo this day I remember speaking with Don Gosney on the phone and listening to him describe all of the wonderful programs the ILC had to offer. When I heard about the physics program, I knew I had to apply. What Don described to me sounded rigorous and intense but by no means did that stop me. Even though my last physics class had been almost two years prior, I walked into the interview confident and hoped that my knowledge would shine through. Evidently it did, or I wouldn't be writing this blog today.<br />
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The first week of our trip was one of my favorites, definitely. It was filled with lots of fancy dinners and spending time getting to know seven other unique individuals with whom I'd be spending five weeks with. Washington University and University of Chicago were on my lists of interests before this trip so it was great to get to talk to admissions officers and students from both of these schools. The websites do a good job of portraying the school but nothing beats getting to visit the school and hear first hand from people who eat, breathe, and sleep the air of the university.<br />
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I was sad and excited once July rolled around because it meant a change of pace. No more moseying around site seeing, we would be fully engorged in our studies in our various programs for the next four weeks. The first week was hard because everyone seemed to be on different levels of physics so we had to play catch up. The weeks after didn't necessarily decrease in difficulty but my level of understanding increased tremendously. At the beginning of the program if you would have asked me how to measure the speed of light, I'd be just as lost as you were. But now I can explain to you how to find the speed of light using your very own device.<br />
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Of course I didn't come so far in the field of physics by myself, a big thanks to Bill, Ryan, Craig, Brian, Penny, and everyone else who helped out sometime during the course of that class. It was such a joy to work with such an amazing teacher like Bill. I looked forward to class everyday just to see what crazy, whacky, and sometimes dangerous demo Bill would use to give his lecture that day. I must say, I also looked forward to seeing his t-shirts everyday because they almost always foreshadowed the events of that day. Seeing someone do their job with that much excitement is inspiration and motivation for me to go after what I want. No one should settle for just anything. Do what you love and love what you do, otherwise there is no point in doing it.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, it wasn't always class and hard work. The people at Summer Discovery did a great job of providing lots of fun activities for students during the week and also on the weekend. The staff at Summer Discovery was amazing as well. When the Penn Team first stepped on campus a man at the registration table asked us what we had for dinner the previous night. At first we were all confused and asked him what he meant, he repeated his question and then told us that we ate at Chilli's in the airport. That made it all clear. This man read our blogs every night before bed. It was Eli reading our blog and Ed knowing who we were without us having to introduce ourselves that made the faculty and staff at this program unique.<br />
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Though I chose to study physics this summer, that's not all I learned about. I learned a lot about myself and the world around me. I've mentioned this before, but a major theme this summer was the idea that you can do anything you set your mind to. Now that I look back, the theme to my hall in Lippincott was "the sky is the limit". The guest speakers we had in class, the lectures given by program administrators, and even the talk my RC Naya Wilson gave to us on our first night all helped to remind me that with determination I can do anything. I can see how much I've grown as a person and I couldn't be any more grateful for being able to experience such a wonderful experience.<br />
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This summer I am glad I made the choice to spend my summer studying physics at an Ivy league school rather than stay at home. Over the past five weeks I had the chance to live in a college environment and get the feel for a new city. The people I got to spend my time with were amazing individuals and I hope that our friendships will last long after our time with the ILC is over. I continually give thanks to the Ivy League Connection and all of those who made this summer possible for me.Alysa Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03176730772136310345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-67878557448983775682012-07-31T20:51:00.003-07:002012-07-31T20:51:35.925-07:00Decision Mean Everything<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All it takes to change your life forever is one decision. I made that decision at the end of last year, to compete for a position as a 2012 ILCers. When I first heard Don talking about the ILC, I thought it was a one of the best opportunities I would get in a long time. I had just finished taking Physics and knew that I wanted to dive deeper into it. I saw the Physics Academy at Penn on the list and just knew it was destined to be. I had to go for it. Then I became one of the lucky ones to get accepted. I was shocked. Every other interviewee, appeared more qualified than me, but somehow, I was picked. Excitement rushed through me as I realized that I would be going from coast to coast. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the time, I did not stop and think about what I did. I just went with the flow, trying to get to summer as fast as possible. I enjoyed the mandatory events because they gave me a chance to met the faces behind the program. I will have to say that everyone: Don, Charles Ramsey, and Madeline Kronenberg each talked with great passion towards the ILC, which made everyone more excited about the summer. I felt that the dinner at La Folie, was the best one because it gave me a chance to met my cohort, the sponsors, and eat some of the best food ever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first week of touring colleges and dinning with admissions officers left me speechless. I have never in my life looked at colleges and I didn’t even know what I should be looking at aside from if they had the class I needed. The information sessions and dinners gave me a sense of what makes a colleges perfect for the student. At that moment, I started my list of colleges, some made the cut, others didn’t. While we weren’t touring or dining with admissions officers, I had a grew friendships with some of the best people in the world. Yes, I am talking about the Penn cohort: Alyssa, Cameron, Clara, Chloe, Ivette, Mariko, and who can forget our chaperone Ian. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Physics Academy at Penn was more than I could have ever expected. We dove really deep into physics really fast. I had to push myself to understand to extras, which were essential in doing the labs. I can still remember our first lab, second, third, etc.. but the first ones were warm-ups for the hard stuff. The harder labs were left me in utter confusion. But to get out of my confusion, was the Physics Team, which was made up of Bill, Ryan, Craig, Brian, and Penny. I owe each one of them endless amounts of gratitude because they made my summer at Penn, the best summer ever, and will most likely remain the best one. Bill was a true example of doing what you love. For 15 years, he has done the Physics Academy, and it appears as if he has never lost his passion or excitement for the program. I want to be just like him, love my career with all my heart, never losing my passion or enthusiasm. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After taking the Physics Academy at Penn, I have come to realize that there are two things that are immeasurable: how awesome summer at Penn is and the amount of gratitude I have towards Charles Ramsey, Madeline Kronenberg, and Don. My summer at Penn was beyond any level fun. I had a chance to make friends with people from every continent, except Antarctica…but I am working on that. Everyone who tries to describe how great summer at Penn is, is underselling it because summer at Penn is, as I mentioned before, indescribable. I can say thank you to Don, Charles Ramsey, and Madeline Kronenberg over a million times a day, for the rest of my life, yet I still will not be able to express my gratitude. They gave me the chance to experience college life before I even started thinking about colleges. On top of that, they gave me a chance to sit and eat dinner with college admissions officers, where I was able to talk with the same people who will be judging my application. This was all possible because I was given the opportunity, I decided to take it, instead of ignoring it. My whole future depends on the decisions I make today. The ILC has opened my eyes, now its my turn to keep them open and use them.</span></div>
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<br /></div>David Barbahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04796855715298744564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-34782561743828135872012-07-31T20:39:00.001-07:002012-07-31T20:40:45.896-07:00The Best of Two Worlds<style>
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I’ve been home since Saturday, but it feels like forever ago
that I was at UPenn. It’s a whole new world over on the East Coast, and being
there changed me even more than I was anticipating. The college tours were so
helpful what with college apps coming up, the classroom experience was
invaluable, and the people were incredible. </div>
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Even though it costs a lot more money than to simply send us
straight to UPenn, I believe that the college touring portion of the trip is an
indispensable part of the experience. The university that we study at over the
summer, in my case UPenn, isn’t guaranteed to be the best college for all of us.
Therefore, the opportunity to view more schools and get a better feel for what
I was looking for was invaluable. During the college tour, I realized that U of
Chicago is one of my top schools, which is something I never could have
anticipated just by looking at the school on paper. I would never have toured
all of these prestigious universities without the Ivy League Connection, and
I’m truly thankful that I had that chance.</div>
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Being in the classroom was especially valuable to me because
it was different from anything else I’ve ever experienced. At ECHS, I’m able to
do well without studying until 2 AM or anything like that. I knew going into the program
that physics at UPenn would be very different from any prior experiences, but I
had no way of knowing just how difficult it would be for me. It took me about a
week to adjust to more rigorous classwork and lecture-based teaching, but once
I did, it was amazing. Having class for three hours straight with only a few
breaks was excellent practice for college, and afternoon lab was always really
fun and challenging. Bill, Ryan, Craig, Penny, and Brian all worked tirelessly
to ensure that we had the best possible experience with PSSA. Their love of
physics was inspiring, and the hands-on approach made modern physics feel accessible.</div>
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Quite possibly the best thing about this experience was the
many different people that I met. Getting to know my roommate, Christine, was
one of my favorite parts of the summer, and I hope we stay friends for a very
long time. My classmates inspired and challenged me to do even better, and I
have the deepest respect for all of them. I met people outside of physics
through pick-up soccer, and it was great to meet people from all over the world
who shared the same passion for the game that I have. </div>
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Most of my fellow students at UPenn came from
privilege–their families and schools have more money, so they have
opportunities that aren’t available to most of us in the WCCUSD. However, I
realized that going to ECHS has given me a unique perspective on life and learning
that I wouldn’t have if I went to some rich private school, and I actually
wouldn’t give up my high school experience for anything else. Of course, there
were six other people at UPenn who come from the same school district that I do.
Clara, David, Ivette, Chloe, Cameron, and Alysa are all fantastic people, and
they became my closest friends at UPenn. I am so glad that these friends, at
least, I’ll be able to see again and again throughout the school year.</div>
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I’m especially lucky to have been to both Brown and UPenn
for two different programs. Last summer, the Ivy League Connection sent me to
Brown to take Women and Leadership. This summer, I took physics at UPenn
through the ILC. I feel so thankful that I was able to take two amazing
programs at two world-class universities, and I know that I’ve grown as a
person and as a scholar because of the two incredible experiences that I had. Women
and Leadership involved more activism and social issues, while physics was
obviously more of a hardcore science class. Each class had something wonderful
and unique to offer, and I loved them both. </div>
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The combination of the two experiences has convinced me that
while I am happy in both areas of study, the best place for me is somewhere in
between. I still don’t know exactly where I fit in, but at least now I have a
better understanding of myself. Without the Ivy League Connection, I would have
no idea whatsoever, and I can never thank them enough for the opportunities
they have given me these past two summers. My time with the ILC has been life changing,
and I have enjoyed every moment I’ve spent on the East Coast.</div>Mariko Whitenackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14308042183506880734noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-83999318892306054902012-07-31T15:59:00.001-07:002012-07-31T22:13:11.003-07:00It's Over, But Not Really<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been home for three days now, and I still haven't adjusted to the colder weather. However, all this time spent walking around in winter coats and hunkering down under blankets has given me the opportunity to reflect on the journey I just returned from. Going to Penn was the most amazing thing I could have possible done with my summer. It changed me as a person and a student and taught me more than I had ever hoped to learn about Physics and myself. </div>
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When I went to the first ILC presentation at my school, I automatically knew that this was the program I would apply to. Julia and Brian, close friends of mine and two thirds of last year's Penn cohort, spoke so highly of it, I knew I couldn't let this opportunity pass me by. Every day, I am glad I stuck with it, even when I didn't get the first interview and even when I was so sure I had made a fool of myself in front of the panel.</div>
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The first week, when we toured colleges and met admissions officers, ranks pretty highly on the scale of awesomeness. It gave me a clear sense of what I want in a college and introduced me to one of my new top choices- The University of Chicago. Sometimes it seems that when I send of my college apps they will be thrown in the air, and the lucky few that land in a certain spot will get acceptance letters. However, meeting admissions officers, the people who will read my essays and applications, helped ground my worries and give the process a much more personable spin. During that week, I sparked friendships with David, Alysa, Cameron, Chloe, Ivette, and Mariko that grew tenfold over the following month. I loved seeing parts of the country that were unfamiliar, and, of course, the food we ate was an experience in itself. </div>
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Once we started class, things shifted. To be honest, that first week was incredibly challenging. I soon realized how smart the people in my class were, and how much I had to focus in order to understand science, something that usually comes naturally to me. The period of adjusting was tough, but after a while, I realized that we were all in the same boat, and maybe the people who initially surprised me were just smart in different ways. "Smart" is a funny word, and this trip changed my personal definition of it. </div>
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Every day of class was amazing, and I am very thankful to Bill, Ryan, Craig, Penny, Brian, and Joe for making it that way. I'm not a person who will just accept things as they're told to me, so I appreciated the hands-on and visual aspects of our class. Seeing Bill dash around the room, doing the same things he's done for the past 15 years with mountains of enthusiasm, showed me how important it is to find something in the world that I love to do and just do it. I grew to love Philadelphia, heat and humidity included, and met people from all around the world. I realized that there is so much out there, a concept I though I understood, but never really proved to myself before this trip. </div>
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Having returned, my life has settled pretty much back into its old rhythm, but I do feel like a different person. Studying at Penn instilled a new sense of confidence in me. Even in a room with 35 other students, top of their class, straight A's, future rulers of the world, I could hold my own. As I begin my college applications to schools both in and out of California, I see the long road a head of me, littered with essay drafts and stress-filled nights. The next couple months will be by no means easy, and they may shape my entire future. However, if I play my cards right, it just might be a little fun.</div>Clara Lengacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09874813527519181449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-16537573349353668192012-07-30T16:21:00.002-07:002012-07-30T16:21:17.580-07:00Leaving Penn?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Its crazy to be reunited with my parents , after a month of being away. On the drive back home ,I felt as if I were hallucinating. I just felt different, the car , and even the house. The time seemed to go by so fast, and the thought of me being in Philadelphia just that same day was crazy.</div>
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The morning I returned home, I woke up at about 5:30 because my roommate was leaving. We said our goodbye's , and I watched as the door closed all the way , and I knew that I would not be seeing him ever again in my life. It was sad but I will always have the memory of him being my very first roommate, Fred. I then knocked out for a few more hours , so I would be well prepared for the trip to the liberty bell.</div>
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Around 7am was when I woke up again , promptly getting dressed so that I could finish up packing. After I was finished packing , I was pretty sure that my bag was under 50 pounds(it was 42.5) I brought my stuff down to Ivette's room , then headed back up to my room so that I could say the last goodbye's to what once was my cave. After about 30 minutes Mr Lawrence was there waiting for us , and we checked out and returned our keys. If we were to had lost the keys , it would cost over 100 dollars. Luckily none of did. Now it was time to head to the liberty bell , so we dropped our bags off at the hotel and got on the SEPTA. Once we got to the liberty bell sight , the sun decided to torture us with heat and humidity. We were relieved once we got inside the building. After we took a few pictures and read a few articles we had lunch and back we were to the hotel to catch our shuttle to the airport.</div>
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There , a 5 hour plane ride awaited us. On the plane I did about to things, slept or listened to music. When the plane arrived , I started to get butterflies because I knew that I was finally in the same proximity as all my close friends and my parents. After getting my luggage , I said goodbye to the gang which had truly formed into a family , and there I was riding home in the car thinking about how I felt and thinking about the past month </div>Cameron Fultonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06640467772102196929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-61864684297752114592012-07-29T16:37:00.001-07:002012-07-31T21:04:58.464-07:00Penn There, Done That<div style="text-align: justify;">
It feels so weird to be home! As soon as I got off the plane it really sank in that I won't be seeing Ivette, Alysa, Cameron, David, Mariko, and Clara on a daily basis anymore. We began this trip as acquaintances but now I feel so close to all of them and I hope we maintain that friendship now that we're back in our own lives again. </div>
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On the other hand, I loved seeing my mom and brother at the airport! I missed them so much and it was so wonderful to go back home with them. The only thing that was super weird about seeing my brother was finding out that he outgrew me in the one month I was gone! My little 15 year old brother is now taller than me; very strange. We also hung out with some close family friends last night so there were a lot of hugs, smiles, and conversations among us. I was able to finally tell them, in person, how the program was for me, and I went on and on about how amazing it was. Seriously though, the Social Justice class with Prof. Lamas and Michael was incredible and I was thrilled to share my experiences with everyone last night. </div>
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I think that it is going to feel strange for a little while living back home without my cohort, but I life will return to "normal" in a couple weeks. I put quotations around normal because I don't think that I will be able to go through my days without critically thinking about what is going on around me. Although I believe that I was quite thoughtful and aware of my surroundings before the program, this class has widened my perspectives and taught me how to think even deeper about my actions and the actions of others. Already, I have noticed a change in how I take in what other people say to me, and I try to respond in a more thoughtful way. I am not saying that I am a totally different person, because I am most definitely not; but I do think that I have changed in some ways that I believe will allow me to move through life with more critical analysis and understanding.</div>
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I am excited to share the hundreds of pictures I took with family and friends, and I hope that I am able to hold on to my identity this next school year while I continue through my personal transformation (we discussed this with Arnold Farr).</div>Chloe Alstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15491385213357510420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-76375332944545738652012-07-29T02:10:00.002-07:002012-07-29T02:10:24.316-07:002,875.6 Miles Later<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's crazy to think that just this morning I was across the country. I woke up in my dorm room for the last time. I made sure everything was packed, because the last thing I wanted was to forget something. I then made my way outside to meet the rest of my cohort and chaperone, and get the signing out process over with. My roommate helped me with my bags, an stayed with me for a bit. I didn't know how to say goodbye to her! I felt like no matter how we said goodbye to each other, it wouldn't come close to capturing our true emotions. Anika was the best roommate ever, and I feel lucky to have met her. </div>
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We weren't going to head out to the airport until one, so we had about three hours for historical site seeing. We had decided a couple of days before that we wanted to go see the liberty bell, and that's exactly what we did. We dropped our bags off at the Sheraton Hotel, that's where Mr. Lawrence stayed during the trip, then began our trip. There was a line to see the liberty bell, and lucky for us we had to wait in the 95+ degree for about twenty minutes. I was a bit uncomfortable, but I tried to enjoy it because that was the last time I was going to be in the hot Philadelphia sun. We took a few pictures with the liberty bell, and read about its history. The air conditioning inside the building felt great, but not good enough to satisfy our hunger. We headed across the street to a food court for brunch. We ordered Mexican food and cheesesteaks. After finishing, our chaperone asked if we wanted to do a bit more walking around since we had some time left before the shuttle would pick us up at the hotel. We all said no, I don't know why everybody else said no, but I can tell you why I did. I wanted to spend more time with cohort, and every time we're together it's just nonstop laughs and great conversation. Today was no exception. </div>
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As we headed to the airport in the shuttle all I could think about was how in a matter of hours I'd be back in California. We checked our bags in, went through security, and bought an early dinner before we were able to sit down. We boarded the plane shortly after that. The plane ride was about six hours, but it went by so fast. I think it went by fast for me because I wanted to spend more time with my cohort! We talked and laughed so much during our final hours together, and it just made it that much harder to accept the fact that our trip was coming to an end.<br />
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I was so overwhelmed when I saw my mom and sisters,and they were holding a welcome back poster. My mom was clearly overwhelmed as well, because she began to cry almost immediately after she saw me. I was welcomed back with tons of hugs and kisses. Now that I am laying in my own bed I can finally say it,I'm home.</div>
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<br /></div>Ivette Alejandrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12381095467259451779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-82799306367350551582012-07-28T23:52:00.000-07:002012-07-28T23:52:04.538-07:00Home At Last<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, started off early, as if it was a normal Saturday. But instead of a trip to a major city on the East Coast, our destination was home, back on the West Coast. I managed to get ready early enough to see most of my friends leave. By the time the Penn cohort was leaving, the quad, a once lively place, seemed very sad and lonely. I felt sad leaving Penn after experiencing many great memorable moment. </div>
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Once the Penn team officially signed out, we had three hours to pack with one final memory. Ian Lawrence said that he had lived in Philly for two years and never has seen the Liberty Bell. He suggested that we all go, which we did. As we waited in line to see the bell, we had our usual talks and sharing of memories. After playing a game of hide-n-seek with the clouds, trying to avoid the sun, we made it inside the museum. I feel that after seeing the Liberty Bell, that I could leaving Philly, feeling like I did it all. We then went to grab our final lunch together, half got cheese steaks and the other half got Mexican food. Although, this was not most high quality food in the world, the moment in itself was high quality. We reflected on our journey and how it has only been over a month that we were all strangers packed in van. Yet now we see each other, not as strangers, but as some of the best friends one could wish for.</div>
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I think that TSA was a whole lot nicer here in Philly, in comparison with other airports. They helped us quickly get through, and be off with our day. We each grabbed a small bite for the 6-hour flight. I loved the flight. It was a very calm flight overall, but I found it a great time to reflect on my journey as an ILCer. I give many thanks to the ILC, and with everything they have done and asked of us, I still feel as that I owe them a ton. </div>
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We arrived at San Francisco Airport at 7:05PM, which lead to the final moments of us being together. While I was packing, I didn't notice that I place my Penn sweater in with the big 50 pound suitcase, so I was unable to wear it for our last group picture. After baggage claim, we were all started to dissipate with each of our families. Then, POOF, the team that went through life at Penn was split up for the first time. I know that I will miss everyone from this marvelous journey, but I also know that we will meet again but until then, I have some catching up to do with my bed.</div>David Barbahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04796855715298744564noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-88494850348714335912012-07-28T23:48:00.003-07:002012-07-28T23:48:38.124-07:00BittersweetI woke up. Class didnt start untill 10 today. That means that I was well rested and prepared for what was to be the last day of class which is exciting but also means that the family that grew during these past month would be broken up. Bittersweet memories and pictures would be all that would be left.<br />
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Today , we were learning about currency in other cities in the Us and how they are trying to stray away from the U.S dollar. To further elaborate on this topic , Professor Lamas played a video that one of his former students made.It was a very interesting video that had interesting facts regarding inflation and the different problems alternative currency faces against the U.S dollar. An example of alternative currency is the Ithaca hour. Now obviously , the Ithaca dollar can only be used in Ithaca New York, but the Ironic thing about it , is that one hour is 10 U.S dollars.<br />
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After lunch , We all came in for what was our last afternoon session , a somewhat emotional session. It was setup in as a Socratic seminar. We were all in a circle and what we talked about was all up to us. Many people had many interesting question. After about an hour , we were let out to go pack and finish up any necessities. I said goodbye to a lot of friends that were becoming close friends and couldn't seem to let a hug go. I ended up hugging Alana Rebbeck for over a minute long.<br />
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This was the hardest part of the day , so after I finished packing I ended up coming back for more hugs! After everything was over I felt bittersweet , but there were still more festivities to come. Summer discovery was throwing something that was similar to a drive-in movie. This was the last chance to bond with every one before we all headed our separate ways.<br />
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<br />Cameron Fultonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06640467772102196929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-45137873113076434442012-07-28T23:13:00.000-07:002012-07-28T23:18:31.491-07:00Home Is Where My Bed IsThis morning I woke up to an unusually quiet dorm room. If it were any other day I'd be able to hear the hustle and bustle of people scurrying to the bathrooms before class. Not today though, today was departure day. I packed the last of my stuff and then went outside to take pictures with all of the new friends I made. Ian came to get us at about 9AM and we were off. It was actually kind of sad leaving the Penn campus once and for all. We left our luggage at Ian's hotel and went to do some last minute site-seeing. After being in Philadelphia for a month we decided we should probably see the Liberty Bell. We waited in a long line to see the magnificent bell and went to grab our last meal in Pennsylvania. We all sat around two small tables and shared many laughs and made more memories together before going to the airport.<br />
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The shuttle ride was rather quiet. I think everyone was trying to digest the fact that we were actually leaving. The plane ride home was a long six hours but I spent my time reading <u>Freakanomics</u>, a book lent to me by Ian, and watching the scenery slowly change from clouds to mountains to cities. We took one last group photo in our Penn sweatshirts before going to baggage claim. Once we reached baggage claim it was time to say "see ya later" rather than "goodbye". We all hugged and promised to stay in touch then we all went our separate ways.<br />
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There is no doubt in my mind that one day soon we'll all see each other again, but after spending more than a month together it is kind of hard to just walk away and return to "normal" life. I will miss Philadelphia and all of the people I met while there. While dorm living and university life were quite the experience, the moment I've been waiting for has finally approached, time to hop in the full-sized bed awaiting me just a few feet from where I sit.<br />
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<br />Alysa Butlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03176730772136310345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-75327220151938581382012-07-28T22:36:00.000-07:002012-07-28T22:36:03.586-07:00Home Again, Home Again<style>
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Twelve hours ago, Christine and I were struggling to carry
my two suitcases down the stairs so that I could check out of the dorms. Ten
hours ago, I was at the Liberty Bell on a last-minute sightseeing mission. Eight
hours ago, I was buying food with the rest of the Penn cohort at the Philadelphia
airport. Now I have no roommate, no Philly, and no cohort, but I know that the
memories of this experience will stay with me for a very long time.</div>
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After a lot of tearful goodbyes, we left the Fisher-Hassenfeld
quad for the last time. Mr. Lawrence sweet-talked the front desk people at the
Sheraton into watching our luggage for us while we took a quick trip downtown
to see the Liberty Bell. There were a bunch of exhibits before the bell itself,
discussing its forging and past uses. I was surprised that the exhibits
mentioned the contrast between the declaration of liberty that the bell
represented and the reality of oppression that women, African slaves, and other
minority groups were facing at the time. It wasn’t something that I had
expected to see at such a patriotic museum, and I appreciated the honesty.</div>
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Once we took pictures by the historic landmark, we bought
lunch at a nearby food court. I got a Philly cheesesteak, my first ever. It
wasn’t amazing, but I think that’s because it came from a food court instead of
one of the famous restaurants. I’m just glad that I got a chance to try one
before leaving Philadelphia.</div>
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Our plane ride was pretty uneventful. I spent most of the
time reading <u>Fast Food Nation</u>, my summer reading assignment for AP Lang.
Although I don’t usually read nonfiction, the subject matter is fascinating and
I’m looking forward to class discussions about the book. We walked off of the
plane to greet our parents, each of us proudly wearing UPenn sweatshirts. I’m
going to miss being so close with everyone in the cohort, and even though we’ll
hang out, it won’t be the same. I was really happy to see my family again, but I'm going to miss the independence that I had at UPenn and the friends that I made there. I'm so thankful that I had this opportunity to branch out and experience college life before beginning college apps, and words cannot express my gratitude to the ILC for making this possible.</div>Mariko Whitenackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14308042183506880734noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-55909304550509712932012-07-28T22:19:00.001-07:002012-07-28T22:19:39.921-07:0030 Degrees Colder<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't believe I was in Philadelphia this morning. I woke up a little after 7 and jammed the remainder of my stuff into my suitcase. Once I had packed up my room, I said good-bye to my roommate, Temi, who left on an early shuttle. The following hour consisted of hugs and good-byes. A couple people left as early as four in the morning, and sadly, I didn't get to say god-bye to everyone I wanted to. </div>
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Ian came to get us around 9, and we went to see the Liberty Bell. Seeing as we spent a month in Philadelphia, we thought it was about time to visit the historical sites. I learned that the Bell, although having no legitimate account of it being rung on Independence Day, became a symbol for freedom in many aspects of American life. The exhibits preceding the bell held many accounts of the suffrage and abolitionist movements use of the symbol. After seeing the bell and snapping a few pictures, we got our last lunch in Philly and spent almost an hour laughing and talking, taking advantage of our last opportunity to bond before heading home. </div>
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Our flight was pretty uneventful, although moderately turbulent. I spent most of the six hours reading my summer assignment book for AP Language, a significant reminder of heading back to reality. Once we arrived, things got a little sadder. Although we promise to see each other again (a lot), our trip is over. We all rolled out, in our Penn sweatshirts, to our awaiting parents. It was amazing to see my parents again, and after pulling my suitcase off the carousel, I said my good-byes and left. </div>
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We stopped at Gordo's Burritos on the way home to get real Mexican food for the first time in a month. I definitely missed that place while at Penn. The Liberty Bell was great, traveling was fine, but I think the most amazing thing today was getting in my own bed. In some ways, this trip felt like a lifetime, but in others, it feels like I never left. I have more than a month's worth of experiences to remember, and I can't believe it's over all ready. I guess Einstein was right; time really is relative.</div>Clara Lengacherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09874813527519181449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-8853354991608587412012-07-28T00:28:00.000-07:002012-07-28T00:28:32.605-07:00Expectations Were Exceeded!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't believe that tonight will be my last night in this room. I will never again sit in the chair in which I'm sitting right now, sleep in this room, look up at these walls, walk with Chloe to class, have dinner with Clara and Mariko at Houston Market, have late night talks with Anika (my roommate), but the most saddening part is that I probably won't see any of the people I met here ever again.</div>
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I thought class was going to be extremely sad, and that many tears would be shed. I wouldn't say it was like that at all. Well, okay, it was a bit sad but I felt lucky. Lucky to have met all these wonderful people, take this amazing class with Prof. Lamas, and had the opportunity to be a part of a program like this. We took pictures in the morning to be able to look back at this experience in the future, and remember who was there with us through the journey. </div>
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Prof. Lamas did lecture for a small portion of the class. He played a video about currency in different places. The video was made by a former student of his, and it was very interesting. I thought it was going to be boring, because money is what everybody talks about, and I'm tired of hearing about it. The video wasn't about U.S. dollars, it was about how cities have developed their own unique currency systems. An example would be in Ithaca, New York, where they use hours. I'm not referring to just an hour a concept of time, it is a paper just like our money is. One hour would be the equivalent of $10, and half an hour would be $5. It was so fascinating to learn about how all of these different communities came together to organize a whole new currency system that they would all benefit from. </div>
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The afternoon part of the class was set in a socratic seminar style. We all sat in a big circle so nobody had to look at the back of some one's head, we were all facing each other. We reflected on yesterday's visit to Juntos, and our overall day. Prof. Lamas wanted to know what we were thinking, how we were feeling, and if we had any questions about anything at all. At about 3, he allowed anybody who wanted to leave to do so at that time. I really had to go because I had not even started packing, and everybody was supposed to be packed by 5 today. I just couldn't say goodbye, so I left until the end of class which was at 5. It was sad saying goodbye to Professor Lamas and Michael. They have made such an impact on my life! </div>
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I wasn't expecting this trip to be as wonderful as it was. It has been an unforgettable experience, but it is time for me to go home. It's hard to imagine that by this time tomorrow I will be sleeping in my bed!</div>Ivette Alejandrehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12381095467259451779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-50290475240175951722012-07-27T23:56:00.001-07:002012-07-27T23:56:17.543-07:00Bittersweet<div style="text-align: justify;">
If I had to compare today to the last day of regular school, I would have to say that it was harder to part with this program; mainly due to the fact that many of my classmates live in entirely different countries and I most likely will not be seeing the majority of my new friends after tomorrow morning. Although we spent some time, near the end of class, reflecting on the last four weeks and saying our goodbyes, Prof. Lamas spent a large portion of the time teaching us about alternative currencies.</div>
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One way that many communities throughout the U.S. and cities in other countries are building their communities is by straying away from dollar bills and circulating new currency that is specific to their area. Cities like Ithaca, NY, Berkshares, Massachusetts, Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo, Japan have all adopted this method of alternative currency as a way to bring prosperity to their communities. People feel extremely comfortable with this because this way they know where the money is going and, in turn, they are able to create closer relationships with people in their communities. The less economic stress that people feel, the more they are able to focus on helping others, and having alternative currencies relieves that pressure. In a film that we watched on this topic, the alternative currency is still paper money but the images printed on them are of local significance, giving the users of this currency a stronger sense of community. Many local markets, restaurants, and other businesses in these cities accept about 10-100% of the alternative currency. The banks within these areas have generously printed these notes and supported this method as well. This idea relates back to the days of barter, but is more modernly adapted of course; however, the system in Greater Buenos Aires is more closely related to the past trade system. When inflation rises too high, bartering takes over the community to bring it back up to speed. In the film many people in that area talked about the great variety of goods provided at the station, and I thought that it was amazing how smoothly the process worked, and works, for them. Maybe I could start some sort of alternative currency within my own community, although I am not sure exactly how well it would work out. I do support this idea though, despite its cracks and complications, and I am so glad that Prof. Lamas used part of the last day of class to provide us with more interesting information and develop deep discussion. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KmvLLDT9oi4/UBOMwc1o6fI/AAAAAAAAARE/1U6mSYI5RQM/s1600/DSCN1309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KmvLLDT9oi4/UBOMwc1o6fI/AAAAAAAAARE/1U6mSYI5RQM/s400/DSCN1309.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iris and I being silly</td></tr>
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I cannot believe the day has come that we have to go back home! I am very excited to see my family again and sleep in my own bed, but I will dearly miss my Social Justice class here at the University of Pennsylvania. Today in class, I was imagining how I would feel after a week back at home, and I knew that not long after I got back, I would wish I was back East again. This thought made me appreciate and love every minute of class today, even more than I normally do. I have absolutely LOVED taking this course and meeting Andrew Lamas, Michael, and Nantina who is one of our T.As. I cried a little when we were saying goodbye because, even though I have most of my classmates on Facebook, I don't know when I will ever see any of them again, and that is the saddest thought going through my mind right now. I will make sure to keep in touch with everyone though, and I wish I lived in Philadelphia so I could take classes with Prof. Lamas in the Fall! I am very jealous of the residential students right now, but I can always email Andy whenever I have any questions or anything. I cannot believe how wonderful our teachers and guest speakers were in this class! They are all truly incredible people and I hope that I can effectively use my widened perspective to create change in my own community back in California. Goodnight Philadelphia, I will miss you so much. </div>Chloe Alstonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15491385213357510420noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2802437187975235118.post-32603441539705605632012-07-27T22:22:00.000-07:002012-07-27T22:22:38.869-07:00Sappy, (Sad + Happy)<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today, everybody was excited for the day to end, so that they can go home. Or this is what they thought before that day had a chance to progress. We began class with our Hershey Park presentations. I loved how everybody integrated a video of their ride, which made me feel as if I rode. I am definitely coming back to Pennsylvania to ride all the rides at Hershey because they made them look like so much fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">After that, things became emotional. Eli kick started the emotions by talking our future, Penn, and the number one determining factor of everything we ever attempt to do in life: determination. He included an example of Ben Franklin with his speech, which is customary whenever he talks about Penn. Then he put us on the spotlight by talking about our blogs, which made me feel a rush of joy. He then went on to talk about one of my previous blogs, Swimming With Dolphins, and what a coincidence it was that it was nearly identical to the Penn Summer Motto, Swim With Dolphins. I then was given a post of the Penn Summer program, which I now regret placing at the bottom of my suitcase because I forgot to take a picture. I almost forgot, I need to give a shout-out to Alec because he asked for it and he reads my blogs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Emotions hit everyone when Bill nearly cried while he was talking about the fun we had. Then thanks to Penny, we watched a slideshow of the whole summer. This was a very heart warming slideshow because it added on to memories of all fun we shared. I have to thank Brian for giving us a CD with everything we did over the course of the program. We then got a chance to know Bill from a powerpoint that showed the evolution of Bill, from prom to present. So as usual, we tried things up with a laugh. After class, everybody stayed to take a picture with the best physics professor ever, Bill. I even got him to sign my poster of Penn. Boy am I going to miss him.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tshjHiuoVQE/UBN2yOtrrZI/AAAAAAAAATA/mQT2SDSpDvM/s1600/DB.27.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tshjHiuoVQE/UBN2yOtrrZI/AAAAAAAAATA/mQT2SDSpDvM/s320/DB.27.1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill, The Best Physics Teacher Ever</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">After class, I went to my room to finish up packing. Once done, I had my final moments with some of the best people I have ever met. We spent our time talking about the great memories we shared along with a game of pool. Later that evening, we attended a special talent show and then watched our finally movie together<em>, 21 Jumpstreet. </em>Once the movie ended, we went back to the lounge and continued remenicing about how much fun we had together. Then the sad part came, floor time, where everybody said their final good-byes and hoped that we will meet again. It was a roomful of hugs and sadness. But apart from being sad, I am thankful for having the opportunity to have such a marvelous summer here at Penn. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Until then, let destiny bring those who were close, together in the future.</span></div>David Barbahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04796855715298744564noreply@blogger.com0