Dear friends--
Not ONLY is it my favorite time of year-- Hello Fall, my dearest love-- BUT my Fall travel tour has been named. Wait for it... wait for it... this year's title has been named by Benjamin Witte of Chicago, Illinois. Ben is a Senior at Univ. Chicago Lab Schools and plans to study Art: Ceramics and Education. His amazing title.... wait for it.... has earned him a superb Valpo gift. Thanks so much BEN! And the title is.... Megan's Mega Midwest Montage **don't worry East coasters, when I visit you in the spring there will be a new title**
This week has been fabulous-- I met so many amazing students at the Brother Rice/Mother McAuley fair on Monday night and at the Maine South fair last night. Mad props to the students I met at Highland Park and Evanston Township High School... you guys rock and had amazing questions-- I look forward to seeing you on campus soon! Chicago's Northshore is absolutely beautiful-- venturing around Evanston's downtown area, Winnetka, and the entire north shore during this time of the year has fast become one of my favorite things to do. All of the people are great, beautiful weather-- and of course-- the amazing shopping!
Make sure to check out our website for new happenings on campus and to schedule a visit!
And as always... be legendary in your own way!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
It really is good guys, and gals!
Like I said, I am new to this blogging thing. The expected regularity of it will be a challenge if I plan on pleasing my large base of readers.
I do not know how I was able to be out of the office for six straight weeks last year. Two weeks alone in St. Louis has left me with much to catch up on, but I had some great visits. All schools I visited were well worth it, but Lutheran North took the cake with 19 students stopping be to hear about Valpo! It was great to be back out there, but I really look forward to a little homecoming at Lutheran South when I visit on October 20th!
I would have to say, though, that my conversation at MICDS had to be the most diverse in topics during my St. Louis tour. Things started off well with some serious talk about our International Economics and Cultural Affairs degree and other related issues, but soon was diverted to a variety of other topics including food (which for all intensive purposes is a serious matter when it comes to the college search). I can't quite recall what else went on, but I do appreciate you keeping us on task, P!
Next up on the admission rounds brings me not too far from campus...I will be at the Portage High School College Night tommorrow evening from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Hopefully I will see any of you in the area there!
I leave you with this thought...If a turtle loses it's shell, is it homeless or naked...
Ryan
I do not know how I was able to be out of the office for six straight weeks last year. Two weeks alone in St. Louis has left me with much to catch up on, but I had some great visits. All schools I visited were well worth it, but Lutheran North took the cake with 19 students stopping be to hear about Valpo! It was great to be back out there, but I really look forward to a little homecoming at Lutheran South when I visit on October 20th!
I would have to say, though, that my conversation at MICDS had to be the most diverse in topics during my St. Louis tour. Things started off well with some serious talk about our International Economics and Cultural Affairs degree and other related issues, but soon was diverted to a variety of other topics including food (which for all intensive purposes is a serious matter when it comes to the college search). I can't quite recall what else went on, but I do appreciate you keeping us on task, P!
Next up on the admission rounds brings me not too far from campus...I will be at the Portage High School College Night tommorrow evening from 6:30 - 8:00 PM. Hopefully I will see any of you in the area there!
I leave you with this thought...If a turtle loses it's shell, is it homeless or naked...
Ryan
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Where's Nicole??
Every fall I travel to several high schools in the Indianapolis area and west side of Michigan. Will I be visiting YOUR high school or attending a college fair in your area? I don't know...check out my fall travel schedule below:
Sept 22:
Sept 22:
- Branch County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM
- St. Joseph County Transfer Fair (MI) 10 AM - 12:30 PM
- New Buffalo High School (MI)
- St. Joseph County College Fair 6:30-8 PM
- SW Michigan College Transfer Day 10 AM - 1 PM
- SW Michigan College Fair 6:30-8 PM
- St. Joseph High School (MI)
- Michigan Lutheran High School
- Northwood University College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM
- Forest Hills Central High School
- E. Grand Rapids High School
- Forest Hills Eastern High School
- Rockford High School
- Grand Rapids Christian High School
- West MI Lutheran High School
- Grand Rapids College Night @ Aquinas College 6:30-8 PM
- West Ottawa High School
- Forest Hills Northern High School
- Holland Area College Fair 6:30-8 PM
- Centergrove High School
- Franklin Central High School
- Madison County College Fair 6:30-8 PM
- Brebeuf Prep. High School
- Pike High School
- Bishop Chatard (dropping off materials)
- Greater Indianapolis South side College Fair 6-8 PM
- Greenwood High School
- Roncalli High School
- Indy West side College Fair @ Ben Davis H.S. 7-8:30 PM
- Allegan County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM
- Barry County College Fair (MI) 6:30-8 PM
- Holt Lutheran High School
- Kellogg Community College Fair (MI) 10 AM-1 PM/ 6:30-8 PM
- Indianapolis NACAC College Fair 9 AM-1 PM/ 6-8 PM
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Friday, September 12, 2008
Liberal Arts night at Jones College Prep!
Dear friends,
My fall travel is off to an amazing start! First up was the Liberal Arts Fair at Jones College Prep.
For those of you unfamiliar with Jones, it is an amazing school, like many others in the City of Chicago. This fall we have 6-- yes SIX-- Freshman on campus from Jones. Two of those students accompanied me on this adventure and did an amazing job describing their love of Valpo to their former classmates. Needless to say, we had an awesome turn out at our table. When we first arrived we were greeted by high energy, warm smiles and a reserved parking space. Those of you familiar with parking downtown can appreciate the excitement we had with not having to stress about finding a close spot. Sam and Jeremie were asked to be "surprise" guests for the beginning panel and were very well received by everyone. There was even live music performed by members of the Jones College Prep band and a very nice meal.
All of the students I met were very prepared for the fair and had lots of great questions to ask. I couldn't have hoped for a better turn out. I look forward to seeing all of you Jones students again soon at both a high school visit and when you come visit campus! Let me know how I can help!
Big fall travel starts in a week-- I look forward to the many amazing experiences I will encounter while meeting you!
Don't forget to submit your suggestion for my fall travel tour name-- I have an amazing gift for the winner! (submit by midnight cst Sept 22nd)
And as always, Be legendary in your own way...
My fall travel is off to an amazing start! First up was the Liberal Arts Fair at Jones College Prep.
For those of you unfamiliar with Jones, it is an amazing school, like many others in the City of Chicago. This fall we have 6-- yes SIX-- Freshman on campus from Jones. Two of those students accompanied me on this adventure and did an amazing job describing their love of Valpo to their former classmates. Needless to say, we had an awesome turn out at our table. When we first arrived we were greeted by high energy, warm smiles and a reserved parking space. Those of you familiar with parking downtown can appreciate the excitement we had with not having to stress about finding a close spot. Sam and Jeremie were asked to be "surprise" guests for the beginning panel and were very well received by everyone. There was even live music performed by members of the Jones College Prep band and a very nice meal.
All of the students I met were very prepared for the fair and had lots of great questions to ask. I couldn't have hoped for a better turn out. I look forward to seeing all of you Jones students again soon at both a high school visit and when you come visit campus! Let me know how I can help!
Big fall travel starts in a week-- I look forward to the many amazing experiences I will encounter while meeting you!
Don't forget to submit your suggestion for my fall travel tour name-- I have an amazing gift for the winner! (submit by midnight cst Sept 22nd)
And as always, Be legendary in your own way...
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Guest of the week: Zanele
In my efforts to showcase Valpo to you, I have decided to ask current international and transfer students to "guest" on my blog. My hope is that their stories and experiences will help you decide if Valpo is the fit for you!
My first guest blogger is Zanele who is our full tuition transfer scholarship awardee for Fall 2008. Zanele is an impressive student and I am sure if you get to know Zanele, you will quickly see why she was given this tremendous award! And now, I offer you Zanele:
About Me
I am originally from Johannesburg, South Africa. I have been in the United States for a little over five years, and lived in Indiana the whole time. I just graduated from Ivy Tech Community College this past May with an Associate degree in Computer Information System-Database Administration, and now my major is Computer Science and Mathematics. I enjoy volunteering, helping others especially those who are less fortunate. I am very excited and looking forward to my years at Valpo!
I am originally from Johannesburg, South Africa. I have been in the United States for a little over five years, and lived in Indiana the whole time. I just graduated from Ivy Tech Community College this past May with an Associate degree in Computer Information System-Database Administration, and now my major is Computer Science and Mathematics. I enjoy volunteering, helping others especially those who are less fortunate. I am very excited and looking forward to my years at Valpo!
My first two weeks at Valparaiso University have been overwhelming with enthusiastic students and helpful faculty. Ever since I got here, I have never felt out of place or as if I did not belong.
I love all my classes because I have a good communication link with my professors. They take time to help and to get to know me. The professors’ also have after-hours sessions and assistant teachers for us to ask questions or furthermore explain what they taught.
There are a variety of student organizations to get engaged and to be connected with, in the university. I would like to admit that I have a few in my list and some of them include the international student organization, the student senator, Ballroom dance and the worship team. At the moment I have not joined any of them because I am still becoming acquainted with the campus buildings and the locations of everything. I have met new friends from Macedonia, China, Mexico, Liberia, Ukraine, Chicago, and many more from other countries.
There is always something for everyone to do such as volunteering, sports, special lectures, panels, speeches, plays and/or concerts, bible classes, and also ballroom dancing which is one of my favoriteJ
I am very proud to be a Valparaiso University Student!
I love all my classes because I have a good communication link with my professors. They take time to help and to get to know me. The professors’ also have after-hours sessions and assistant teachers for us to ask questions or furthermore explain what they taught.
There are a variety of student organizations to get engaged and to be connected with, in the university. I would like to admit that I have a few in my list and some of them include the international student organization, the student senator, Ballroom dance and the worship team. At the moment I have not joined any of them because I am still becoming acquainted with the campus buildings and the locations of everything. I have met new friends from Macedonia, China, Mexico, Liberia, Ukraine, Chicago, and many more from other countries.
There is always something for everyone to do such as volunteering, sports, special lectures, panels, speeches, plays and/or concerts, bible classes, and also ballroom dancing which is one of my favoriteJ
I am very proud to be a Valparaiso University Student!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Colleges & Universities.....coming soon to a town near you.
Many of you, high school students, have noticed that college admission counselors have started to trickle into your high school for college visits. Now is the time to get as much information about the schools that you are interested in while they are coming to you. Like me, I am currently traveling to high schools for college visits in Indy and western Michigan. Let me tell you from an admission counselor's perspective....we really do enjoy meeting with students at high schools. So, stop into your guidance office and sign up for the schools you are interested in learning more about. Then you can decide which onces you'd like to apply to and visit.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Are you on facebook?
Did you have trouble waking up this morning? I sure did; the change in the weather really makes me want to curl up in front of a fire and just relax! I think I am getting my first cold of the season (yah!)...I can't seem to get warm...
I want to hear from you - what is the first thing you did this morning at school to get ready for the week? I will share with you what I did - walked around the office asking all the staff what they did this weekend :) I got to witness the creativity of our counselors as a couple of them turned the furniture around in Nikki's office - watch out, I am sure she will get you back! :)
Now that I am caught up on everyone's social life, I am making some headway on a list of perspective international student names...and getting ready to start a facebook group for those of you who are interested - it is Wanted: more international students at Valpo!
For those of you that are transfer students - don't worry - I have not forgotten about you - your new group is I am transferring to Valpo! I look forward to hearing from you all anytime!
Later....
I want to hear from you - what is the first thing you did this morning at school to get ready for the week? I will share with you what I did - walked around the office asking all the staff what they did this weekend :) I got to witness the creativity of our counselors as a couple of them turned the furniture around in Nikki's office - watch out, I am sure she will get you back! :)
Now that I am caught up on everyone's social life, I am making some headway on a list of perspective international student names...and getting ready to start a facebook group for those of you who are interested - it is Wanted: more international students at Valpo!
For those of you that are transfer students - don't worry - I have not forgotten about you - your new group is I am transferring to Valpo! I look forward to hearing from you all anytime!
Later....
Friday, September 5, 2008
Indy...my second home...
I visited high schools last week down in Indianapolis, IN (my second home). Overall, it was a good trip. I always enjoy meeting students at their high schools and spreading the word about Valpo. It was interesting - travel always is - everything from showing up at the old location of a high school to getting completely lost trying to find a school you've never been to before.
I am looking forward to another week in Indy - I will be on the north side next week. I hope to see many more new faces at my high school visits. If I don't see you at your high school though, you may spot me hanging out at a Starbucks or Panera Bread (my two favorite places).
I am looking forward to another week in Indy - I will be on the north side next week. I hope to see many more new faces at my high school visits. If I don't see you at your high school though, you may spot me hanging out at a Starbucks or Panera Bread (my two favorite places).
Thursday, September 4, 2008
And so ends any hope of my tennis match today. This summer's weather has been absolutely amazing, so I suppose a rainy day is in order. I just wonder how I am going to get home on my bike...
Regardless, I am looking forward to my travels starting next week. My schedule is as follows:
Monday Sept. 8:
-College Night at Northfield Mall in Kankakee 5 - 8 PM
Wednesday Sept. 10:
-9 AM at John Burroughs High School
-11:45 AM at Whitfield School
-12:45 PM at Kirkwood High School
-2:45 - 5:00 PM Fair at DeSmet High School
-7:00 - 8:30 PM College fair at CBC
Thursday Sept. 11:
-8:15 AM at Rosati Kain
-9:40 AM at SLUH
-11:30 AM at Incarnate Word
-2:15 PM at Lutheran South
-6:30 - 8:00 PM College Fair, St. Joe's at Chaminade
Regardless, I am looking forward to my travels starting next week. My schedule is as follows:
Monday Sept. 8:
-College Night at Northfield Mall in Kankakee 5 - 8 PM
Wednesday Sept. 10:
-9 AM at John Burroughs High School
-11:45 AM at Whitfield School
-12:45 PM at Kirkwood High School
-2:45 - 5:00 PM Fair at DeSmet High School
-7:00 - 8:30 PM College fair at CBC
Thursday Sept. 11:
-8:15 AM at Rosati Kain
-9:40 AM at SLUH
-11:30 AM at Incarnate Word
-2:15 PM at Lutheran South
-6:30 - 8:00 PM College Fair, St. Joe's at Chaminade
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Check, Check 1, Check. Is this thing on? There we go.
Thus begins another exciting school year and the beginning of my blogging life. Today, Dan, Seth and I made a trip around the Valpo area to visit a few high schools and met some great students at Chesterton and Boone Grove. And now that I have this up and running, look out St. Louis, you are next! That is all for now, until...
The same blog time, the same blog place...
Thus begins another exciting school year and the beginning of my blogging life. Today, Dan, Seth and I made a trip around the Valpo area to visit a few high schools and met some great students at Chesterton and Boone Grove. And now that I have this up and running, look out St. Louis, you are next! That is all for now, until...
The same blog time, the same blog place...
In the beginning...
Hello from Valpo!
My name is Jennifer Smolnicky and I work with all of the transfer and international students here in Admissions. One of our counselors (okay, her name is Megan and she always has great, new ideas) suggested that we try this blogging concept as another way to stay in touch with you all. This has the potential to be great but only if you read it and comment!
Here's my promise to you - I will write at least once a week and give you an idea of what is going on here in the office, where I am traveling (mostly local, but a trip to China is planned for October) and more importantly, give you further reasons to consider attending Valpo.
So, stay tuned as I learn to do this (you should probably know that I am a bit challenged with new technologies, I just got a cell phone 2 years ago :) and I hope to hear from you or meet you soon on campus!
Until then...
Jennifer
My name is Jennifer Smolnicky and I work with all of the transfer and international students here in Admissions. One of our counselors (okay, her name is Megan and she always has great, new ideas) suggested that we try this blogging concept as another way to stay in touch with you all. This has the potential to be great but only if you read it and comment!
Here's my promise to you - I will write at least once a week and give you an idea of what is going on here in the office, where I am traveling (mostly local, but a trip to China is planned for October) and more importantly, give you further reasons to consider attending Valpo.
So, stay tuned as I learn to do this (you should probably know that I am a bit challenged with new technologies, I just got a cell phone 2 years ago :) and I hope to hear from you or meet you soon on campus!
Until then...
Jennifer
Coming to a high school near you..
Dear friends--
As promised, the highly anticipated return of your admission counselor's travel season is about to begin. Please check out the following dates to see if you will be able to stop by to get some Valpo info and say "HI" to me. My tour of Chicago will be somewhat epic as I plan to visit 50 high schools within 6 weeks plus many in the Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio areas. Do not fear, my East Coasters, I will be coming to you in the Spring months, but you can come visit me on campus, drop me an email or give me a call for some information in the meantime.
Let's get interactive-- Whomever submits the most creative and clean tour title for my fall travel schedule will win a fabulous Valpo gift. All submissions must be received by September 22nd, 2008 12AM CST. Please email me at: Megan.Marrs@valpo.edu
And now, the grand unveiling of the "to be named later" tour:
Wednesday September 10th, 2008
DeLasalle (fair)
Jones College Prep (fair)
*disclaimer, dates may change, and if they do, there will be a post about it*
Now, you may be thinking to yourself, "Wow, Megan, how do you stay so energetic and inspired while out on the road?" I will tell you-- it's because of Starbucks. I'm joking, partially, in reality it's because of the relationships developed during this time of the year. You also might be wondering what exactly I take with me while out on the road-- OK, ok, ok twist my arm, I will tell you. In my travel (non-valpo material, non-clothing suitcase) bag I will always have the following:
I look forward to seeing you all very soon!
And remember-- be legendary in your own way!
As promised, the highly anticipated return of your admission counselor's travel season is about to begin. Please check out the following dates to see if you will be able to stop by to get some Valpo info and say "HI" to me. My tour of Chicago will be somewhat epic as I plan to visit 50 high schools within 6 weeks plus many in the Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio areas. Do not fear, my East Coasters, I will be coming to you in the Spring months, but you can come visit me on campus, drop me an email or give me a call for some information in the meantime.
Let's get interactive-- Whomever submits the most creative and clean tour title for my fall travel schedule will win a fabulous Valpo gift. All submissions must be received by September 22nd, 2008 12AM CST. Please email me at: Megan.Marrs@valpo.edu
And now, the grand unveiling of the "to be named later" tour:
Wednesday September 10th, 2008
DeLasalle (fair)
Jones College Prep (fair)
Monday September 22nd, 2008
Brother Rice (Fair)
Tuesday September 23rd, 2008
Maine South (fair)
New
Wednesday September 24th, 2008
Thursday September 25, 2008
Maria (fair)
Marist (fair)
Wednesday October 1st, 2008
Thursday October 2nd, 2008
Francis W Parker
Luther North
Sunday October 5th, 2008
Monday October 6th, 2008
High school visits TBD
Tuesday October 7th, 2008
Univ.
High school visits TBD during the day
Wednesday October 8th, 2008
High School visits TBD
Thursday October 9th, 2008
High School visits TBD
Friday October 10th, 2008
High School visits TBD
Sunday October 12th, 2008
**Back to
Monday October 20th, 2008
Flossmoore (fair)
Gwendolyn Brooks
Tuesday October 21st, 2008
Wednesday October 22nd, 2008
Walter Payton
Whitney Young Magnet
Thursday October 23rd, 2008 (Happy birthday to my brother!!)
Noble Street
Friday October 25th, 2008
DeSales (fair)
Saturday October 25th, 2008
Wednesday October 29th, 2008
National Hispanic Fair
Thursday October 30th
William Taft (fair)
Saturday November 1st, 2008
*disclaimer, dates may change, and if they do, there will be a post about it*
Now, you may be thinking to yourself, "Wow, Megan, how do you stay so energetic and inspired while out on the road?" I will tell you-- it's because of Starbucks. I'm joking, partially, in reality it's because of the relationships developed during this time of the year. You also might be wondering what exactly I take with me while out on the road-- OK, ok, ok twist my arm, I will tell you. In my travel (non-valpo material, non-clothing suitcase) bag I will always have the following:
- Bottled water (preferable vitamin water)
- one regular can of Coke
- Powerbars
- trailmix
- First-aid kit (trust me)
- Extra socks
- Flip-flops (I could live in flip flops)
- Raincoat
- Umbrella
- cell phones, wall and car charger
- Laptop
- homework-- yes, my day time outfit is the Admission Counselor, while at night I am an MBA student here at Valpo.
- iPod, charger
- digital camera
- Ethernet cable (just in case)
- A wide selection of batteries
- flashlight
- Plastic bags (both of the sandwich and garbage varieties)
- Tissues and napkins
- Two hats
- Spare toilet paper (I traveled to China this summer-- it's become 2nd nature)
- tape, assorted rubber bands and paperclips (just in case I need to MacGyver (1) something together)
- Pens
- A towel
- Tylenol, Advil, Motrin and aspirin
- A lifetime supply of Tums
(1) for those of you too young to know who MacGuyver is-- take a look
I look forward to seeing you all very soon!
And remember-- be legendary in your own way!
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