Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Changing Colors.....

As we are entering our second week in Chicago, I feel as though we are much like the changing leaves outside.What I mean by that is; the experiences and opportunities we are encountering are truly changing the people we are. And when I use the word change; its not it a critical way, I use the word change for the growing and learning characteristcs it encompases.

A prime example this week being, our internships. This week I have had the opportunity to interview with three very different organizations in Chicago. Surprisingly enough, each interview has taught me a more and more about myself. If there was one thing they all had in common it was passion. These people are passionate about their passion because, its going to change and better the world in which we live in.

So, this week we have been partaking in our internships, but i want to also briefly talk about a life changing experience from last week. Last Friday the Urban Studies group attended a gathering at the University Church on UCI Campus. This was a gathering of men of whom had been tortured by police officers in the South Side. These innocent men were tortured into sighing confessions of crimes in which they didn’t commit! When I thought of acts of racism, this never would have crossed my mind-But it is! These innocent individuals fought while in jail and were eventually released- No questions asked......

Witnessing these stories made revaluate what i consider a bad day. Because, in the eyes of these men and their families they understand whats truly a bad day.


Monday, September 6, 2010

Bye bye summer..... The Fall 2010 Urban Studies class arrived to Hyde Park on Monday September 6 (Labor Day). We couldnt have asked for a more perfect day to move inn on-70 and sunny! Everyone seemed to get settled into their apartments and rooms rather quickly and after having a breif orientation, we headed down to check out Lake Michigan. What a view! After, we ate at a great little Italian place, where we all consumed WAY too much! Yet somehow managed to make room for tres leches cake!