Workshop Week

    

     Without a set prompt of what to write about in the blog for this week, I took time to reflect on my transition into this semester. Surprisingly the ease into the semester was better than I expected, and I am excited to start fresh! This past week of card 101, we had required workshops to attend. If I'm going to be honest, I did not know what to expect and initially thought these workshops would be a little tedious. However, looking back on it I think it was really nice how they were inclusive and got us to engage and learn about the concepts in a way that was enjoyable! 

 Other than the card workshops and attending my other classes, I found myself spending a lot of time in the library. It's the best study spot on campus in my opinion. I'm a little biased because I usually spend time on the library/goldsphon side of campus, but Oesterle is the place to be. Every time I walk in, I feel motivated to get my work done and be productive in some way shape or form. So, all in all I feel grateful for the library and having a space to focus on knowledge getting! Tried to connect chapter 1 a little there.. Being a commuter student especially, I like being able to study and complete work in other campus locations, instead of rushing home straightaway after my classes. 

The month is wrapping up but the semester's only starting which is an odd dialectic of nerves and excitement. I am looking forward to all the "new" this spring has to offer as much as it seems overwhelming in the moment. After reading the introduction chapters this week as well, I definitely think I need to be aware of how I learn and what changes if any I should make going into this new semester. 

Who Am I Talking To?

     

    This week in card 101, we focused on design layout for our blogs as well as making the appearance neat and concise for our audience. After reading and discussing the "Clean Up Your Mess" article, I've learned that the deign style does not need to be complicated or pretty to draw in a reader. Appearance should draw in the intended audience, but the content is what gets them to stay! It was mentioned that practicality and purpose are the number one key to design. So, in this blog as much as I'll try to be creative and unique to bring attention to this blog, I hope the content itself is what lasts and makes people interested to keep reading about my updates for the semester. 

What is a virtuous cycle? When Dr.Kyburz and Dr.Smith mentioned this term, I honestly assumed we were talking about ancient philosophy. My classes can feel like they're overlapping when terms like this exist... However, in writing this means to establish criteria for a good piece, evaluate, suggest improvements. On Friday, we practiced this skill by sharing our blogs with peers around us. We took time to look at each blog carefully and offer feedback and constructive criticism. 

 In my time at North Central so far, I have noticed community plays a large in defining the classroom and the college. In my classes, we have done a lot of mini group work to get to know each other and we are encouraged to collaborate when allowed. Being in college and as adults, students come in with their own unique major / collegiate goals, so it can be hard to meet new people. I am grateful that during the first few weeks of this semester I have had opportunities (to feel acclimated to the school as well as had time to introduce myself to new peers and professors.)

Welcome to the Blog!

 

Hi! My name is Josie Dichoso. 

The photo above is me snorkeling this Thanksgiving. I chose the photo because I love everything revolving aquatics. I also think the sea can symbolize openness and peace, so in terms of characteristics, I’d connect that to saying I think I'm a pretty open person. I have always enjoyed participating in aquatic activities recreationally, but I’d have to say my grandparents and my mom played a large role in growing my
spark and curiosity. 

My grandparents used to own a sailboat and participate in the Chicago to Mackinac Island race annually. (I thought they were the coolest, still do!) Being surrounded by the lake, their boat, and the crew growing up inspired me to join my neighborhood swim team and eventually find community within sports like they did. I started taking the sport more seriously over the years and ended up playing water polo in competitive clubs and school teams. 

 Besides that, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and babysitting. Having a good circle is something I find so important and I try to surround myself with loved ones as much as possible. I also like to go out with my friends on the weekends and explore different towns around Illinois. It’s exciting being spontaneous and going along with their ideas. The trips usually result in us going to a new coffee shop, pottery place, or thrift store. I was a nanny this past summer and it was definitely a fun but interesting experience. I think babysitting is a rewarding job and although I was in position to teach and guide them, they taught me a lot in return!

This week in CARD 101, I enjoyed diving into the "Portrait de Famille" this morning in class. Although I had so many ideas and questions about the art myself, I enjoyed hearing some peers' point of view as well. I think the activity was a great way to convey writing and art both have limitless possibilities- it is all up to the audience's interpretation and dialectics within the piece.