It's All Starting to Come Together

Until now I had not known how much walking from M Street to DuPont Circle had worn me out. My muscles are still soar even after my hour nap. At least I had solved micro homework problems 1 through 4 (Well, there are bits and pieces that need to be finished which I will do at 8pm because I need to score a check plus on this assignment. Never again will I skip another micro class and assignment!). I am only having problems with number 5 which I will email him at 9pm. He will probably answer tomorrow morning; meaning, that I will get it during lunch time (At least I have solved the majority of the assignment!).

This third assignment has been a journey of self-discovery. Friday I admitted that I did not know certain concepts and immediately started working on them by reading chapter 10. Saturday I made major headway by finishing chapter 10 and solving problem 4. Sunday I reread chapter 8, solved problems 2 and 3, and learned not to fear my Ti Voyage 200 calculator just because I forgot how to solve LaGrange multipliers. While rereading chapter 8 for a second time, I laughed at how I had to do the same thing when at Cleveland State. There was no harm in rereading all of the chapters if that meant that I totally understood everything and aced the midterm. Honestly I thought that this was what it took in order to do well because microeconomics was my hardest class!

Tonight I will reread a portion of chapter 10 and try to solve problem 5 then start reading ECON 505 because homework is due Tuesday and I want to submit it after meeting with th TA for my tutoring session. I know that there is a lot of pressure on me, however, I know that I can do all of it including econometrics. Right after tomorrow's class I will return to my office to register my name and log onto blackboard to print all of the material. Since I am in training the entire week, my days are essentially off limits. However, my nights are not so I will cram as much as I can into them. I am thankful that I do not have to commute to Virginia this week saving me in between thirty and sixty minutes valuable sleeping time. This week I can roll out of bed at 8am instead of 7am. And I will use every opportunity afforded to me to get all of my work done.

With the upcoming microeconomics midterm, I will skip ALDP training and return to the professor's office to review anything that I do not understand. I just do not want to freeze up like I constantly do during the homework assignments. I feel that with the review session, the TA session, Friday's appointment and my rereading all of the chapters, there is no reason why an A impossible. Ever since dropping microeconomics in 2006, I promise that this time will be different! Earning an A in this class (because I know that I will earn an A in mathematical methods), will give me my first 4.0 grade point average at the graduate level. This will help me during the comprehensive exam and provide a cushion for my master's thesis.

This week I will email my advisor my idea to examine the Academic Competitiveness Grant's impact on encouraging more native-born American citizens to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Education is so vital towards my success that this has to be my topic. I will fight tooth and nail to defend it next year. It is important to start now instead of waiting for my Education Department contact to deliver the end-of-the-year report because there are so many hurdles to clear such as assembling a three professor panel and getting my idea cleared. The more I contemplate my topic, the more it makes sense to buy the STATA econometrics software to run regression analysis on it. Learning another statistical software language gives me more credibility. In addition, I will put eViews on my computer. Heck, I have paid for it so why not? This gives me another language. I will shoe my advisor that I am so serious that there is no way of denying my topic!

A Day in the Life

I started my day bright and early 9am in my microeconomics teacher's office reviewing problem 4. This session helped me so much because I went about it the wrong the way. He helped me go from the profit function to setting quantity demand equal to quantity and solving the equation. During this time I admitted that expenditure minimization was my problem; and, starting my ALDP assignment was the reason behind missing September 22nd class. The stress of being founded out was released from my body because I did not feel dumb after all. All I had to do was reread the chapters to better understand the material.

Upon returning home, I began outlining chapter 10. Then I traveled to Morton's for my 12:45pm lunch. That was the plan until the fire alarm rang forcing an evacuation. After walking across the street as a precaution (the man who sold me a charity basketball ticket then mentioned that his Cleveland friend got shot was once again hawking them this year in the very same spot!). Returning across the street, I thought that Washington Square would let people back in but was wrong so I walked to the Palm praying that there was not a huge lunch line.

Thank goodness for a recession because there was hardly anyone there! I got a table for one immediately. Once seated the first things I thought were that it was neither raining nor snowing; I changed into something comfortable to be able to walk; and, I had the money to afford either steakhouse. The live House on the bailout glared across the bar's TV screen (It passed then both the House leaders and President Bush spoke. My own waiter was distracted by the vote. Hey to all of you fat cats: Eat Ramen noodles!). I ordered the chopped steak with a half order of three cheese potatoes and a regular Coke for $21.18 plus $5 tip for exemplary service!

Departing the restaurant I walked to the Farragut West 18th street entrance to hop the orange train to Ballston to withdraw Keep the Faith by Faith Evans from the Arlington Central Library. Even before Biggie Smalls, Faith had an interesting life especially how she was classmates with the three black men who made a pact to support each other and become doctors (The Pact a movie based on their lives was shown at the Cleveland Film Festival). This resonated with me when I saw my friend two weeks ago at the NBMBAA annual conference. I was happy that someone from the old neighborhood made it!

Although I did not let a measly fire alarm deter me, it along with two public transportation trips drained me of my energy. Yet I continued outlining chapter 10 which I will complete tomorrow along with solving problems 4 and 5. In addition, the microeconomics teaching assistant replied that Tuesday at 5:30pm was okay but to forward her the homework problems which I had problems. Saturday after solving my homework, I will make a list of any problems that I still have (expenditure minimization will and Lagrange multipliers will be on the list because I am hazy on these two.). It is important to make a concerted effort into solving my homework instead of allowing someone else to do the work for me.

Finally the woman from the company which the USDA Graduate School contracted for its GRE class forwarded me the name of another instructor who essential gave me the GR92-2 sections 2 and 4 letter answers; but, I wanted them worked-out because that was what the substitute math tutor promised. I communicated to him and provided a succinct example. They will give me my just desserts!

This entire day was filled with the predictable and unpredictable yet one thing remained constant: my ability to get it done regardless of circumstance.

Flustered

This is my reaction to receiving a lower quantitative score than expected (Actually it was lower than last June's score)

All of the strength that I have mustered
Only to become flustered
By a sub-par score
Yet I return for more
How bad do I want it you say?
No amount of money can sway
Me from upward mobility
No exercise in futility
See my humility
Coupled with agility
Tempered by reality
Therefore now I am flustered

How Bad Do I Want It? Update # 2

Yippee! I have scored a 26/30 on GR90-16 section 3. Multiplying this by two equals 52/60 which is 700! This is a breakthrough motivating me to push harder. Two or my four wrong answers are preventable. These correct answers would have yielded a 28/30. Multiplying this by two equals 56/60 or a 760. This is Brown University's GRE minimum score which serves as my benchmark. Monday morning I will solve the Princeton Review easy math and verbal problems (I am doing this to readjust me eyes since I am awaking at 6am in the morning). Later this afternoon, I will do the electronic math drill to gage my computer performance. Though math is my primary focus, I need to present a well-round GRE exam which includes high verbal and writing scores. That's why I am studying the verbal section.

Tomorrow I will read chapters 4 and half of 5. By Friday, September 12th , I will finish reading the Princeton Review and have scored a 760 on the quantitative section by correcting my mistake and being patient. By September 19th the online tests will be completed and I will have earned my 760 on the quantitative. My ALDP mentor, Jed, says that he has practiced every day to boost his score; and, I will do the same because I am thisclose towards clearing the quantitative hurdle.

Examining Barack Obama's Presidential Acceptance Speech on the 45th Anniversary of the March on Washington

Two days ago Barack Obama accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for the President of the United States. It was also the 45th anniversary of the March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his historical I Have a Dream. At the foot of the Abraham Lincoln Memorial he expounded why blacks should receive full franchise as their white brethren. Much had changed during the past 45 years and Obama was proof of that. Though people had a right to say that Senator Obama giving the acceptance speech on the anniversary was providential, we must put each man in proper context. First, Dr. King was never a politician which was very important since he did not have to win public affection to advance his civil rights agenda. Obama would have to be elected. Second, though both men worked in community service, King founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) and his executive board of lieutenants drafted the Civil Rights and Voting Rights Act and the 24th Constitutional Amendment banning poll taxes at all voting booths to be ratified bu the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. Senator Obama's senatorial record was an as illustrious. Furthermore, it was very rare for any sitting president to ratify a constitutional amendment. These two monumental differences were indispensable in understanding the key differences between King and Obama; and, how Barack should pave his own path instead of worrying about attempting to become the second coming of Dr. King.

Opportunity Journal Entry #25: Credit By Examination

Today I travel to the UDC bookstore to write down the book titles for all classes corresponding to certain CLEP and DSST exams. The book store worker seems enthusiastic when I tell him that I do not need any assistance because I have brought my list with the appropriate section numbers (Hey, I am on a mission!). Immediately I jot down every single book title from personal finance to business mathematics to management information systems. Cumulatively, I can test out of seven CLEP and DSST exams supplying the sound foundation to build my business economics portfolio to submit to an Ivy League doctoral program. The creation of this portfolio comes from a way to differentiate myself from other candidates. Although I am an economist with an MBA and have won numerous scholarships, I need to do more. Testing out of more business and statistical courses boost my career and academic profiles. I am only six statistics credits away from becoming a statistician and these tests present a viable alternative toward accomplishing it. Finally, they are cheaper at $90 a class than UDC resident tuition.

Afterward I walk to the Math Department to retrieve the business mathematic syllabi. I ask the secretary if Dean Steadman is here. She points to her office. Initially, I cannot see the dean but then I see her in the dark. I ask her about the department's credit by exam procedure. Also, I inform her about needing the statistics credit hours to become a statistician. Then she gives it to me along with a time frame (this week and next week are horrible but any other time will be okay).

Finally I have a timetable for taking the credit by examination tests because it has been four months in the making. I want to test out of elementary statistics I and II, business mathematics II, linear algebra, differential equations, and now, discrete mathematics since it is in my graduate micro text. Dean Steadman's remark about being able to take it throughout the semester comforts me because right now I am financially stretched even though I qualify for residency (At least, I can pay out of pocket).

Elitism Gone Awry

This is my response to William Deresiewicz's Exhortation: The Disadvantages of an Elite Education found here: http://www.theamericanscholar.org/su08/elite-deresiewicz.html

The author characterizes Cleveland State as a place with a lack of nurturers in the form of advisors, tutors, etc. which unfounded because the MBA program offers finance tutoring which helps me immensely. However, comparing a public versus a private one is unfair simply because they are not going after the same student. Having earned my undergraduate degree from a private liberal arts institution, not only did I see my advisor but we have eaten dinner over her house (many resided in the college town). There is more intimacy which shows in the price tag. Public schools function to accommodate those who cannot afford private school tuition but exhibit the same fire, drive and ambition.

Receiving my MBA from Cleveland State, I currently work as a GS-11 economist at the Bureau of Economic Analysis, a premier economic agency producing the gross domestic product. Economics is one the most popular majors. Many Ivy Leaguers would die to have my prestigious job because this number is recited by the president, Treasury secretary and Fed chairman, all fellow Ivy Leaguers. I have never felt that my instruction was either substandard or preparing me to be a clog in the machine. In addition, NASA Glenn and several Fortune 500 companies such as Keybank, National City, Progressive Insurance and Sherwin-Williams actively recruit from Cleveland State as well as its wealthier neighbor, Case. These corporations know the value of Cleveland State University graduates.

Currently, I am a master's of economics candidate enrolled at American University and have financed all of math classes at the Northern Virginia Community College, USDA Graduate School, and the University of the District of Columbia, all state-sponsored schools. Their instruction have enhanced my professional work because now I can solve higher-order math problems. This in return benefits the entire American economy, Ivy league of not.

My Yahoo Finance Response to Laura Rowley's Article

Here is my response to today's Laura Rowley's It's Time to Rethink College Debt found here:

http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/moneyhappy/100520.

I attended and graduated with a BA in economics from a Midwest liberal arts college and currently am an economist at a major statistical agency in Washington, DC. The only loans that I have ever used are federally subsidized because banks pay colleges to push private loans. Upon graduation, I earned my MBA from a state university to eliminate costs. During my graduate studies I financed my math classes at the local community college because it was cheaper than the state university two blocks down the street (As you could see, I am economical!). Furthermore, after relocating to the DC metro area, I took precalculus, calculus I through III at state and community colleges. Paying for them myself instilled pride that I could take care of myself.

Though I am currently a master's of economics candidate enrolled at a private university, I have won two scholarships to reduce costs. Moreover, my employer pays for one class which further eliminating my financial burden. I would recommend any college student to look for employers offering tuition assistance. In addition, some federal agencies provided debt forgiveness of up to $60,000. If Emily works for the Smithsonian, her debt would have probably been forgiven. Her MA in Arts is not a waste and she can still make a decent living. Furthermore, please inquire at your college's career services about cooperative education programs which enable students to work in their majors while earning college credit. These programs are available regardless of major. Finally, these abundant amount of opportunities are not advertised because the banks and credit card companies would lose money.

Focusing on the Positive, Confronting the Negative

The http://www.readeexpress.com/ horoscope has been on point especially this morning with its reminder to Don’t allow yourself become upset about those things that are completely out of your control. Realize your limitations. Yes, Tropic Thunder is racist and BET has co-signed and okayed its proliferation of white men in blackface by allowing Robert Downey, Jr. to appear yesterday on 106 and Park; however, the best way to defeat racism are through intelligence and action. Look at Barack Obama and the newly appointed UDC President Allan Lee Sessoms. This is one of the schools I have attended while residing here in the capital city. He had earned a doctorate from Yale, taught at Harvard and as a senior member in the State University before heading Delaware State, another historically black college and university. Therefore, I refuse to see anything that detrimental to me and my race of people.

My 31st Birthday

I have had an eventful 31st birthday today. I ate lunch at Smith & Wollensky's and the restaurant gave me a birthday card and triple chocolate cake to commemorate the event. Though I mistakenly ordered the creamed spinach for an extra $10, the fact that I could afford it, with more money to splurge on myself. Furthermore, by my 32nd birthday I will be a GS-12 economist.

Securing this promotion is a quite achievable feat given my ALDP slot, developmental assignment and four new components. These accomplishments showcase my research ability and depth. Also, I am not above transferring out if I feel that my career is stagnating. The developmental assignment provides a great opportunity to acquire new skills and cultivate my relationships. Come March if I believe that my current employer will not review my promotional request, then I am posting out to another agency. I do not work for free! Besides, next May I will have earned my MA in Economics degree with Omicron Delta Epsilon honors from American University and will embark on my doctoral journey to a top-tier program; therefore, there is little time for pettiness. I do not know how much time I have on earth, and I refuse to waste any on something totally unproductive. Why go through life bitter and frustrated.

The Winning Just Keeps On Coming

The DCBMBAA president called to congratulate me on winning the $2500 graduate scholarship! Combining the $1100 CBC Spouses General Education scholarship and the $3278 agency training assistance, leaves me $36 outstanding. Winning these scholarships motivate me to apply for more aid and that people are genuinely interested in my personal growth. Furthermore, it motivates me to push on and study for the GRE. I need to score at least a 760 on the quantitative for the top-tier doctoral programs to consider me. Though that is 100 points away, taking two free practice GRE exams present wonderful opportunities to achieve this objective.

My Response to Today's USATODAY Community College Article

Though I have attended both four-year colleges and community colleges, I will neither go as far to say that four-year colleges are rip-offs nor go as far to say that two-year colleges prepare astronauts especially in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) community. There is more college aid in these disciplines. The federal government offers the American Competitiveness and National SMART grants in addition to the Pell Grant to lessen the burden for Americans wanting to major in these fields. In addition, several Fortune 500 firms, knowing that the US is producing one million less scientists and computer programmers than China and India, offer scholarships. Furthermore, as a native Clevelander with NASA Glenn in my backyard, it has not partnered with Cuyahoga Community College for any specialized training because to become an astronaut, physicist, etc, require a minimum of a BA. Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Mae Jemison have never started at a community college and it is by design.

The tier level exists because they serve different functions within society. If you do neither have the grades, the focus, nor the money then community college is for you. It is a cheaper alternative for people to find their footing and save money. Community colleges train blue collar workers. Four-year train white collar professionals. Though I have enrolled at community colleges to take mathematic classes, as an economist working in the STEM community, I value receiving my BA because it has more value. An Associates degree does not have the same value. None of America’s billionaires from Oprah to Bill Gates have ever attended community college. That is a fact. Therefore, the rant that four-year colleges are a rip-off is nonsense because they serve a very really function of training of best and brightest who are ready and prepared to learn now; and, being ready to learn upon graduating from high school is essential towards the United States retaining global competitiveness advantage.

Even though I love the function of a community college, I feel compelled to write this because a four-year college degree is not a waste. The people badmouthing four-year colleges do not possess the aptitude to win a scholarship to attend them. Furthermore, it is important to get as many children proficient in math and science in order to effectively compete with China and India. These two countries are producing one million more scientists and computer programmers than we are. Therefore, this nation can ill-afford the “college is not for everybody” and “four-year colleges are a rip-off” mentalities because stake as the world’s innovative leader is at stake.

Opportunity Journal Entry #24: Career Expansion

The HR specialist assigned the Census’ Statistician announcement, says that the OPM accepts USDA Graduate School credits. This enables me to take both statistics I and II to qualify for this position. Since they cost less than both UDC and AU, I will pay out of pocket. This career expansion comes at a great time because I will need to earn more money to finance my graduate education. The announcement gives me nine months to fulfill the requirements allowing me time to gather the money and use my developmental assignment as a stepping stone towards obtaining experience.

Becoming a statistician puts me deeper into the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) community; and, that is my career objective. I want to learn as much math as possible so that I fully understand the doctoral program information. Furthermore, I want to finish within four years not five. Mastering the math is key towards achieving my goal.

Opportunity Journal Entry #23: Ode to Financial Empowerment

Just when I think that there is no way I can afford my education, I put together a plan. Subtracting the agency’s tuition assistance and my scholarship leaves an outstanding balance; however, with money in my coffers, only a small difference remains. That’s why I really do not need a loan and to take a day to mull over whether or not to pay out of pocket.

It has taken nearly five months to accumulate this kind of money in my other account. Therefore, winning one more scholarship and diligently saving, technically I can pay for my education out of pocket come spring without any loan money. Furthermore, I can always return the additional money. The bank will approve or disprove of my loan within sixty minutes and it will disburse it to the school within two weeks pending no additional documentation. However, getting an updated billing is my job, therefore, Thursday morning, I will review my student account then apply for the loan.

Socking away money for a rainy day has its benefits because honestly I would have never known that this would be the emergency; yet, it is I can deal with it immediately without straining myself. Now I can stroll over and eat $5 entrees during Happy Hour and attend the PINK PASS party at K Street Lounge.

Lending a Helping Hand

Right upon exiting Wachovia, a lady stopped me to ask where was the Citibank on 15th Street? Her question confused me because I exited a retail bank and it did not register that she meant a credit bank. I pointed out Wachovia, Washington Bank, Adams Bank and implied that she was thinking about Chevy Chase Bank. This exchange prevented me from directly crossing the street forcing me to walk across two intersections to return to work. This diversion helped me immensely because I saw the Citibank branch. Feeling bad that I gave the lady the wrong directions, I ran across three intersections to tell me. Luckily, she was on her cell phone asking for directions when I apologized for my error. Afterward, she thanked me for telling her. Actually, that made me feel better than the 73 degree sunshine.

The Truth Behind the Obama-Jackson Rift

The black family war of words surrounding Barack Obama and Jesse Jackson are heating up with some misquoting being done on both sides. Yesterday Senator Obama countered Reverend Jesse Jackson’s remarks saying that fatherlessness is a particular problem within the African-American community because more than fifty percent of households have no father. Reality check: the American divorce rate is fifty percent so that is not just for black families but for all families. It is a shame that Senator Barack Obama has decided to speak from his Audacity of Hope pulpit instead of his Dreams of my Father one where he, too, grew up fatherless. Mr. Obama should preach how he managed to convert pain and self-destruction of cocaine drug usage into becoming an Ivy League graduate and more responsible father.

I pride myself on having the same background as Senator Obama: both of our grandfathers fought in World War II and he graduated from Harvard and Columbia and within one year I will be on my way. We are beneficiaries of the World War II Pell Grant because our ancestors had it when it covered 100% of state tuition. Currently, the Pell Grant covers less than 50% of state tuition and student loans have taken grant aids’ place. That is why we have spent our entire lives above the poverty line. Also, both Senator Obama and I are conceived in wedlock. These commonalites allow me to see the okie-doke whenever it rears its ugly head. In addition, I have pointed out the problems with defending his former pastor Jeremiah Wright before the preacher turned his remarks into a three-ring circus. Furthermore, I take particular issue with Obama’s welfare remark because he knows that there are more white people on welfare than black people. Now instead of inspiring young black men to become better individuals and, hence, better fathers, he gives fire and brimstone speeches admonishing them. His sermons give no solutions which is deplorable. Finally, Senator Obama admires President Abraham Lincoln and I, too, have a quotation for him: You can fool all of the people some of the time, you can fool some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.

How Bad Do I Want It? Update

I scored 660 instead of 700 on my quantitative section, therefore, I will retake the test. However, buying the Math Word Problems for Dummies book was the best investment ever made because it dissected all of the GRE problems. Though I wished that I had purchased it prior to the test, I was at least happy about the fact that I would score way beyond 700.

Independence from Bitterness

Immediately after hearing a Mexican-American woman's story about how her guidance counselor tried to discourage her from taking French because she was Hispanic at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival's NASA Pioneers seminar, I realized that I was not the only one because my mother and guidance counselor railed against me for taking chemistry. Instead I had to take botany and anatomy and physiology. After eleventh, I decided to take physics yet earned a D because I had no chemistry background.

That pain and anger stayed with me until that moment when I realized that I
can overcome this by reading Chemistry for Dummies and taking a class at UDC. In addition Dummies publishes Chemistry, Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry for Dummies along with Physics and Anatomy and Physiology for Dummies. Of course being the Type A personality that I am, I have researched state and community colleges near Harvard, Yale and Columbia to earn my science degree (it can be either biology, chemistry, or physics). Since I will have 44 math credits, all I will have to do is take the science and capstone courses. My dissertation phase allows me to be outside of school, thereby, giving me the opportunity to take classes at resident tuition rates.

How Bad Do I Want It?

Tomorrow is my GRE test and scoring 700 on the quantitative exam because I want to get into an Ivy League doctoral program. Though I possess significant economist experience, am an ALDP program participant, and in the honor society, but acing the GRE exam increases the probability of being accepted. I want this so bad that I have solved every problem in the official GRE book and have completed both PowerPrep practice exams.

Static on TV during the 2008 NBA Draft

I totally disagree with Dick Vitale's opinion that certain players should be able to bypass college and enter the NBA draft because they must look at their contracts as lump sums that must be astutely managed throughout their lives. Obtaining a colleges; and, look no education has its benefit than college football which requires three years. Furthermore, look at the quality of endorsements and its impact upon lifetime income. Even in the age of LeBron James it is no coincidence that no NBA players has received an American Express endorsement. Why? Because the majority of its clientele is college educated. Mr Vitale should have just stuck to the 2008 draft!

Barack Obama's the Presumptive Democratic Nominee and Why Hillary Should Not Vice-President

After winning the Montana and capturing 2132 delegates, Barack Obama is the presumptive Democratic nominee. He is the first black person to receive a major party nomination. Furthermore, Hillary Clinton has announced via email that she will end her campaign Saturday in Washington, DC (Though there is no word yet as to if she would release her delegates). Though there are many petitions circulating to have Clinton as the vice-presidential nominee, Hillary would not be a good fit for Obama’s campaign for several reasons:

1) She is polarizing and has too much negative history: See Watergate, Monica Lewinsky and the failed healthcare bill

2) She is a sore loser who cannot admit defeat: the votes have already been counted Tuesday night but Clinton refuses to concede until Saturday, four days later. If someone cannot admit defeat then surely she cannot say that she is wrong which will hamper Obama’s presidential bid.

3) John Edwards’ endorsement put Barack Obama over the top after Hillary regained momentum with wins in Ohio, Texas and Pennsylvania. Moreover, Hillary cannot win the South, something that this primary has shown. Edwards, a North Carolinian, would be a better guarantee to secure votes in that region and Appalachia.

4) She cannot muscle Barack into receiving the VP slot: You only have pull when you win and already many voters are comfortable voting for Barack over John McCain. This whole “I’m holding onto my marbles” is very childish and will return to haunt her as a Senator and if she decides to run for the presidency in 2012.

Many reporters posit that Barack’s three-person VP panel does not have her on the short-list anyway. For instance, Caroline Kennedy along with her uncle, Senator Ted Kennedy, are early Obama endorsers. I totally agree with them because Hillary should not expect to receive a seat at the table just because she has come in second. You do not see Mike Huckabee openly campaigning for McCain's VP slot!

Opportunity Journal Entry #22: Climbing the Corporate Ladder

My boss has just told me that my promotional paperwork has been approved, and that it will show in check during this period! Nuff said!

The Weird and Unfortunate ramblings of Jason Whitlock

Jason Whitlock is once again calling braids and other untraditional hairstyles worn by NBA players as prison look. That’s bad and he needs to just chill and stop saying stupid stuff. The reason why NBA ratings are soaring are this season has been exciting to watch. The resurgent Celtics, LeBron, a rejuvenated Kobe. These are wonderful reasons to watch. When Larry Bird decided to grow facial hair, no one accused him of looking rebellious so why unevenly apply this to black players. Roger Clemens, with no facial hair is a bigger misfit by sleeping with fifteen years (the FBI is investigating Mindy McCready about this) and taking steroids. So looks can be deceiving! It is sad and unfortunate that I must hold my breath whenever I click on www.msn.com because www.foxsports.com is totally unprofessional and completely biased.

Why the BA stampede is necessary

It is high time to address this whole pseudo-BA degree glut market because all of this misinformation is extremely detrimental. Once again, I disagree with the assertion that a so-called stampede to a four-year degree does not make sense especially when China and India are producing one million more engineering annually than the US. It is stupid to advocate vocational and community colleges over four-year institutions when this country is losing the talent war. I would rather have a plumber with a BA and the intelligence to build a better mouse trap (in this case an eco-friendly toilet flush system) than one who just fixes existing technology. Furthermore, the four-year institutions possess better research laboratories to create the new technology. Neither a high school vocational graduate nor a community college certified vocational graduate possess the math and science aptitude to effectively compete in the global economy in the industrial market. Supply chain management requires advanced statistical knowledge acquired only at a four-year institution because community colleges do not teach the calculus-based statistics necessary to operate the machinery. Having taken calculus III, I am quite qualified to discuss why the BA stampede must continue in order to meet and exceed the global intellectual demands.

My Second Anniversary

Today marks my second anniversary on my job and the official date of becoming a ZP-III Economist. It amazes me how much I have grown since my first day on the job. I was so wide eye, I could not even find the Friendship Heights metro station. Then I pushed the wrong elevator button. Now I walk to work. Financially, I was broke with two checking accounts in ChexSystems. I could not even open a checking account. My bad credit forced me to live in Arlington Virginia because no one would rent to me. Now I am possess good credit residing two blocks from my employer.

Now here are some new objectives to accomplish during the next two years:
Complete my MA in Economics degree and graduate with Omicron Delta Epsilon honors
Pay off all CCCS debt
Become a GS-12 economist and apply and get accepted into the Executive Leaders Development Program
Finish my first year of doctoral school at an Ivy League school

Undoubtedly Redoubtable

redoubtable (adj.): 1) formidable. 2) worthy of respect.

In the face of adversity, I remain redoubtable and steadfast that I will perform well at AU, be inducted into the honors society, graduate on time and receive acceptance into an Ivy League doctoral school!

Mentoring from All Angles

The agency mentoring meeting is wonderful and upon learning that the organization will discuss publishing, am all the more amped to attend! Publishing a paper provides another opportunity to write and research my master’s thesis. Instead of depending upon other AU professors, bring a couple of my own people. Hey, professionals are professionals! Once the lady has gotten over my initial ambiguity (I did not know if the agency’s mentoring would collide with the department's, but since it did not I came!), I enjoy it. During the session, I mention that within one year I will be a GS-12 economist. My mentor, says that there are certain things, such as budget and vacancies, which are beyond your control. Well, I beg to differ because I am in ALDP; therefore, operating two levels above everyone else. Therefore, within one year, I will not just receive my GS-12 economist but also my MA in economics degree! Remember you don’t get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate!

Mixed Signals

The final is over. It has taken me nearly the entire semester for me to understand what the professor means when she says show your work. I am thinking that she means calculator commands but she really means theory. If I have known this before, I would have performed better on the test. It amazes me that I am the first one finish (although I have forgotten some stuff.). Finishing in the allotted time empowers me. After submitting my final, she returns my first lab so that I can score higher. Friday I will do this along with studying for my second lab. I feel great that she is really trying to help me, but, I feel that I might still need to retake calculus III. My gut feeling is that my overall course grade will be C- and since I am a graduate student, I base success on a B scale. By principle, I cannot accept this grade. So Monday, I will ask for other options. Mastering calculus III is essential towards graduate work therefore it is important that I fully understand it!

DL Hughley's Hypocrisy and Self-Hatred

Hypocrite comedian DL Hughley proclaims during the whole Rutgers debacle with Don Imus that anyone saying anything against black people is free speech but hate speech for everyone else. Furthermore, today on the Tom Joyner Morning Show he mentions that he has had a meeting with John Zogby regarding how people in Pennsylvania will vote and points out the racial composition of America. This is coming from the man who says that Barack Obama will not even win the Democratic nomination, but Obama has more pledged delegates than Hilary Clinton. Moreover, what about the white, conservative Republicans who affirm never to cast a vote for McCain at not only the primary but the general election? If DL Hughley looks at poll numbers, he will see that Barack versus McCain is even, but Clinton versus McCain, favors McCain. In addition, in this morning's New York Times, Jon Andrew, former DNC chairman and Indianan publicly supports Barack and tells former president Bill Clinton to have his wife drop out of the race and throw their support behind Obama. I do not understand why he talks because he is a hypocrite; and, the worse part is that he hails from the same city that I do: Cleveland. The Cleveland Cavaliers lose to the Washington Wizards now this! Rats!

Something Rivals.com Would Not Dare Publish Regarding Its Proposed College Football Playoff Proposal

Rivals always want to propose a division I playoff but the problem with this is that we first must have uniform schedule meaning the eliminating the conference championship games in the ACC and SEC because the NFL AFC and NFC do not have them. The problem is greed, of course, because these games generate a lot of money. That is something that Rivals would not dare to print because then the site will appear hypocritical which, of course, it is. It is not-so-secret that many of the conferences' coaches dread these games, but the board of directors receive a lot of money from them. This is why the ACC championship is moving from Jacksonville to Charlotte. In addition, having a playoff would make college football center around money instead of academics. Look no further than college basketball which requires one year of college versus three years for college football. Furthermore, why should the US government get involved in college athletics? That is ridiculous! Finally, I do not hear any other publication outside of Yahoo and Rivals (no ESPN, Sportingnews, Sports Illustrated, or any legitimate publication) proclaiming that there is this universal push so please get over your large, inflated egos!

I Know that the Atlanta Falcons are Desperate But Matt Ryan

Okay so I am one of the few who believe that the Michael Vick era is not over until the Falcons start winning just like the wise old sage from ESPN News said yesterday. Even with Matt Ryan’s selection because Matt Ryan has never won a BCS bowl game or broken any NCAA records except for choking in the ACC Title game against Virginia Tech allowing the Hokies to play in the Orange Bowl. Ryan is not even the best quarterback in the 2008 draft. I know that the Atlanta Falcons are desperate but really, Ryan is inaccurate, too skinny, and has a pathetic offensive line. Even with Sam Baker from USC, he will still get hit!

Everything is right with the world when...

My calculus III professor loads part 2 of the chapter 14 notes, I correctly answer three homework problems, and Darren McFadden is the #4 pick in the NFL draft going to the Oakland Raiders.

WSJ Interviews OSU Vernon Gholston and Razorback Darren McFadden

This link is the WSJ Interview of Vernon Gholston and Darren McFadden. Though the interviewer asks Darren about his run-ins, I am glad that he handles it with ease because they are harping over stuff that has happened two years ago! He admits that he has made mistakes but his overall track record is one of integrity.

Here is the link. Please enjoy!

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid86195573/bclid132209461/bctid1519670804

Budgetary Matters: Timing is Everything

Yesterday I ate at $15 chopped steak smothered with bleu cheese a steak and $8.50 sorbet dessert at a reputable steakhouse only to receive my $20 gift certificate from earning bonus points. Yikes! However, I will not use until my next off-day because it is essential not to waste my tax refund money eating out. Essentially although there is still a surplus, reining in spending at eating at home more often are still practical ways of staying above the fray.

Academically speaking I am happy to continue applying for scholarships prior to budget cuts. AU's tuition will be over $1080 and that's steep. These cuts may reduce or even disqualify me from receiving agency aid. My goal is to submit 20-25 applications. My recommender included these two obstacles in my letter. While creating a timetable to efficiently and effectively apply to all of these scholarships, I realize the importance of ensuring that everything is submitted on schedule. Remember, timing is everything!

Opportunity Journal #21: The Value of Foresight and Hindsight

My boss' boss asked me of my whereabouts to which I responded that I was attending a conference. Then he relayed the division’s budget cuts. Sitting there I was glad that I applied for scholarships to offset my AU tuition.

My agency recommender has given me a very exemplary recommendation letter. Furthermore, she has told me a story about a former employee who when applying to Columbia the first time received a marginal recommendation letter thus costing her admission. However, since she knew the program’s admission director and learned that was the reason behind her denial, she secured a stellar recommendation the second time, got accepted and graduated (She currently works at an investment back. She says that the woman exclaims that the Columbia program is very hard but she has gotten through it.). Unbeknownst to Ann, her story motivates me to soar higher because I, too, want to attend Columbia, though because I will graduate in four years because I possess the requisite advanced math courses.

The Problem with Edin08's Stagnant Nation Report: It is the Quality not Quantity

A not-profit Education in 08 has authored a report entitled A Stagnant Nation providing recommendations regarding elongating of the school year. The problem with this is that it is the quality of the instruction not the quantity of time being devoted to any particular subject. Currently enrolled in calculus III, I am qualified to speak about this because increasing my class time from 70 minutes to 90 minutes will not enhance my learning if the overall quality is still superb. Oftentimes we make rules that hinder our children’s ability to learn. We need more qualified teachers certified in math and science then and only then will the American public and private educational school systems generate children who can compete with the rest of the world.

Sean Bell's Killers Are Acquitted

OMG! The three NYC policemen who fatally shot Sean Bell 50 times (one even reloaded) were acquitted earlier this morning. That’s unbelievable. Even though the federal government will investigate, it is the fact that someone who is shot should need federal intervention. Those police should have been convicted! That’s blatant inequality like my life is worth less. I refuse to pay first-class taxes but receive second-class citizenship!

April Showers Bring May Flowers Part II

One of my scholarship recommender says that she might not write me a letter for the May 1st deadline because she is busy (Nevermind the fact that I gave her 2 1/2-3 weeks to have it ready!). Normally I would be infuriated (make no mistake, I am perturbed), but I am lucky to have a back-up. However, this is the last time I ask her for anything!

Miss a Day, Miss a Lot

This slogan comes from my hometown newspaper, the Plain Dealer; and, boy has a lot of things transpire since deciding not to purchase a new journal Monday. The crazy lady in my apartment strikes up an incoherent conversation about being fat and Spanish (Hey, I too eat beans and rice but like I have told her, I walk it off!), the homeless man in his leather begs me for change, my calculus III professor springs a test on us in two days, and the bugs reemerge from their hiding place (I guess it is because I am cooking real food now instead of TV dinners). However, a lot of good things have happened such as my receiving a recommender for my scholarship, having my official transcripts mailed to me to complete my application, fully analyzing my decision to sit for the CPA exam, and I have managed to outline over half of my second calculus III test. Furthermore, since tomorrow is Emancipation Day, a Washington, DC holiday and the university I will make a concerted effort to buy a journal. You just cannot make this up!

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Assassination: 40 Years Later

Tomorrow marks the fortieth anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination meaning that he has been dead longer he was alive yet his influence is far-reaching. Many people quote him for personal gain but I will devote this blog entry towards how his life has positively impacted me. As a black woman, I am able to work at my current employer (Well, I would but as a cleaning lady), attend American University, a majority white university, live off of DuPont Circle and try on clothes at the department stores. That's why I take advantage of every available opportunity because one generation ago neither my mother nor my father had the same opportunities.

You Get What You Pay For

The club luncheon brought the okie-doke! I sat next to an annoyingly hypocritical person. He asked me if I was an economist and he pulled out a previous slide and expounded upon me that the ocean should be non-excludable because it resulted in over-fishing. We should issue fishing permits and that penalty against abuses would be so great that no one would do it! Yikes! And all I wanted to do was eat lunch! However, he was elusive with his answers so no sideline hating! Then during the presentation from the executive of the hedge fund group gave use a 50-minute infomercial on why private equity group should buy banks because, even though another company ditched them this past Tuesday, regarding the subprime lending crisis, the federal government was inefficient. Furthermore, he proclaimed the Federal Reserve Bank districts such as Cleveland and Richmond were dubious. Well, as a lifelong Clevelander I would dispute this because Cincinnati had a stock exchange and the brokers would send their business to Cleveland to save their clients and themselves state taxes on their capital gains. Sending them to either Chicago or Saint Louis would result in paying out-of-state and federal taxes. However, the real kicker was that this man was nothing more than a mouthpiece because when he was in government he spoke good about it, but once in the private sector he railed against it! After five minutes I fazed out because I knew the okie-doke when I heard it.

This trait is something that I have fine tuned upon arriving here in Washington, DC because everyone is trying to capitalize on something. Also unlike Cleveland, I really don’t know anyone so keeping my guard up is mandatory! Yet regardless of what happens, the truth never changes.

The Law of Averages

Acing my music midterm has given me a much welcomed respite from receiving my calculus midterm (I know that I failed because I forgot vector direction. It was just time to get over it!). However, I am happy to say that partial derivatives will save my life and my grade because they are far easier than vector-valued functions!

It's Mathematically Possible

I have shared my college prep research experience regarding Bill Gates’ with a friend. The thing that still stumps me even after all of these weeks, is how I hadn’t known that I could be an engineer while sitting in calculus III! Well, I still can and I would study either chemistry, physics (I studied this in high school but did not have the math background. Now that I do I feel more comfortable with the formulas) or biology, for biostatistics. Mastering math opens a wider window of opportunities available to me right now or after receiving my doctorate. That's why passing the credit by examination proctored tests are so essential towards expanding my professional capabilities.

No longer will I depend upon someone else for advancement. Earning the nine statistics allows me to venture into other fields within my own department. I can also become a statistician, mathematical statistician and biostatistician. Now that’s recession-proofing my career because this year I will garner the credits necessary either through class or credit by examination to accrue 29 math credits to vie for these other jobs! Immediately I print all of the statistician jobs to review the requirements. My economics background supplies stellar transferable skills. Also it is a big plus that one of the largest government agencies hiring statisticians is under the same department as my employer. This distinction further would boost my candidacy.

This Is Not What I Want

Lord Have Mercy! Both ZP-III economist interviews were busts! During my morning interview, the interviewer gave me a wink-wink, nudge-nudge that I would be promoted without competition this May; however, I still felt that I wanted to vie for this position because it offered no competition for ZP-IV promotion. Becoming a Senior Executive Service Economist required ZP-V so every promotion was important towards realizing my career goal and I defended my decision to seek out other opportunities before my two-year anniversary. The interview was quite challenging especially there was not an abundance of information available; however, I was able to be honest in telling him what I did and did not know about the position since there was no information on the intranet. The afternoon one horrible because instead of a pure economist job, they were trying to sell me the okie-doke: an admin. support post with economist only in title! Yikes! What were they thinking? Luckily I had the phone interview tomorrow else I'd be depressed. Oh well, back to the drawing board!

The Economists Have Finally Reached a Consenus That We Are in a Recession But I Know That Already!

Finally! The WSJ has coped to a recession (It’s about time the paper gets its nose out of the sky! I regularly shop at Saks, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales and the week before Christmas I was the only one in Jimmy Choo store (The author is also an economist!)). And like I have said even before Bernanke’s hire, I have openly questioned why an academic without any real-world job experience would be appointed to the Fed Chief position given that his predecessor held jobs outside of the Ivory Tower? The main problem is that the current subprime lending crisis did not follow the economic models and he is slow to respond. Bernanke cut interest rates but they have very little impact upon stimulating because unemployment is still higher and people are losing their house, their primary financial asset. Personally, I am purchasing savings bond to protect my assets from inflation. The remaining 2006 ARM will reset throughout this year but the real financial recovery will take at least another year given that America will have to adapt to another administration.

Opportunity Journal Entry #20: Killing Two Birds with One Stone

Another division has scheduled me for a ZP-III Economist interview! Yippee because that’s two ZP-III interviews in one day. However, still apply for the three outside GS-11 Economist jobs as backup. Furthermore, I will remember to mention at both interviews that I am an ALDP Finalist and this is a departmental plan. In addition, I am sticking to my price tag because I am currently making the minimum; plus I am on the tech committee and am a department-wide finalist and this alone speaks volumes about my proficiency (Personally, I believe that the other division will give me the better deal because they don’t know me, therefore, will pay me more money. Be prepared to move on and up to earn my worth.).

Opportunity Journal Entry #19: Reaping the Harvests of Mentoring

Until I researched material for my beautician’s son, the idea that sitting in a calculus III was somehow a great feat that most people did not accomplish. This week while reading the 2006-2008 catalog, I realized how close I was towards obtaining a BS in Mathematics. However, these epiphanies helped me unearth an abundance of available opportunities to recession-proof my current career. Attaining my math degree qualified me for the mathematician, statistician and mathematical statistician positions. Mathematicians required 24 math credits while statistician and mathematical statistician jobs required fifteen math credits and nine statistics. Presently, I had twenty credit hours but no statistics courses, that’s why the university’s credit by examination option presents the chance to earn them. For only tuition plus a $50 fee, I can test out of a class. Of course, I will schedule these exams upon achieving residency in July to save time and money. Testing out of all of my statistics classes would allow me to focus on differential equations, mathematical statistics I and II; thereby, allowing me to simultaneously graduate with both a BS in Mathematics and an MA in Economics.

Although this past Saturday I wrote in my journal that after taking one year off from American to improve my math skills, I should find a way to graduate because of all of the time invested in this endeavor. In addition, possessing a BS in Mathematics enables me to recession-proof my career (You have noticed that no one lay off the engineers?!). Furthermore, I can get almost any technological job that I want. Having always loved tinkering with electronics (I took PASCAL in high school), so math is natural. Having emailed the departmental chair, I will keep asking her until I receive a straight answer about the exams. If she decides no then file a grievance because the university says that I have a right to take it. Yet always have a backup plan. I am contacting the other university to see if it would schedule its statistics equivalency exam this summer so that I can test into the graduate statistics courses; thereby, enabling me to take higher-level stats classes which will resonate on my transcript. There are so many different avenues to venture and without mentoring my beautician’s son, I would had never known how wide open my future was!

Coming Full Circle

Tonight I returned to Shirlington to celebrate with my fellow Urban League Young Professionals at the conclusion of the legislative conference held here in Washington, DC. Though I was in familiar surroundings, my life was a complete 180 degrees from when I lived in Virginia. My bad credit was the reason behind my move (really, it was a force-out) from DC and anger and disappointment consumed me for the better half of that year. Determined to return to DC, I diligently paid off nearly all of my creditors and returned to the city. While on the 25A returning to Pentagon, I realized that it was me not the city that was the problem and the solution. Furthermore, returning to Virginia allowed me to reconcile all of my feelings and let go of all of the animosity.

Succeeding at Every Level Against All Odds

The alumni office has sent notify that a fellow alum has made the Cleveland Crain’s Business Edition Forty Under 40. But to my surprise my old high school alum has made the list. This makes me feel that I am not isolated in my success; and, that others from my same background can be successful! However, I am quite dismayed about his remark that something has told him that he is not smart enough to be a doctor so he should work in patient care. What a cop-out! I have never placed limits on my capabilities which is why I now understand why I have never really spoken to him. All of my friends regardless of job and location are high achieving.

Opportunity Journal Entry #18: It's All Starting to Make Sense

Thirteen is a lucky number (at least for me) because I have learned from my boss’ boss that not only am I an Aspiring Leader Development Program finalist but he will sign off on the paperwork! Furthermore, a consulting company wants to conduct another phone interview because the company is interested in me for the vacancy! I am so happy that my career is in full blossom. Nothing is totally sealed yet so I will keep all of my options open.

This is a better turn of events versus the debacle at my bank. I am glad that I listen to my intuition and walk into a branch rather than open the Way2Save account online because the financial specialist informs me that this savings account constricts me to only depositing $100 per month. Even with the $50 accumulated interest, it is still half of the $300 I save every month. (Secretly during this nearly 45-minute ordeal, I thought about not getting an updated DC state identification card which resulted in the online bank denying my online savings account because it could not verify my address.). However, the better bet currently will be to write the $315 check to my other bank, and purchase either the $25 savings bonds or the automatic saver CD for $50 without a maximum savings limit.

Keep Emitting Positive Energy

I returned to Hook restaurant to take advantage of its prolonged Restaurant Week menu. No sooner did I enter the eatery did one of the waiters graciously met me. Though he was not my original waiter, he immediately recognized (Maybe it was my $4 tip on the $20.08 prix fixed menu.) which was comforting. I took it as a sign that emitting positive energy was important towards having people treat me favorably.

An Economist's Take on Current Recessionary Pressures

I have started today off with a boom by opining about an Los Angeles Times’ article about why some people do not think that a recession will occur. When food and gas prices exceed the CPI inflationary targets then we will have a recession. Period. Regardless of where you are in the economic strata, if you cannot afford food and clothing then we will have a recession. These things are not luxuries just the basics; and when the essentials outpace inflation then America has a problem! Even though I am unaffected by the sub-prime lending crisis and my income outpaces inflation, you do not need to be a genius to understand that the domino effect is coming.

During the last week of Christmas I walked into the Jimmy Choo store at 6:30pm and no one was there. Though I knew that the store closed at 7pm, the fact that no one was in there did not resonate until earlier this year when the dismal retail numbers were reported. When the upper middle class cannot afford to spend their discretionary income because of higher consumer prices then why denounce a recession? That’s ridiculous!

Finally, I have a problem when all of these analysts, idolizing the rich, make these outlandish statements about a self-contained or regional slowdown. The majority of these reporters cannot afford to buy items out of Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus on sale, let alone at regular price! As an economist, I know a domino effect when I see one because though I can afford these high-end items, I cannot be the only one in the store.

Reapplying to American

I have just applied to readmittance into American University and will ask my boss for a recommendation. Setting the wheels in motion boosts my confidence especially since by the end of the year, I will be finished. That’s what motivates me to awake and keep going every morning. Just knowing that every day puts me closer towards achieving my MA in Economics degree pushes me to do my best by overcoming my fear about the comprehensive exam.

Darren McFadden Has Entered the 2008 NFL Draft

Darren McFadden has entered the 2008 NFL Draft and all that I have to say is “It is about time! All of these other no-names entering the draft. Why not the blue chips prospects?” Of course, ESPN’s Len Pasquarelli proclaims that the league is not ready for Darren but incorrectly compares him to Adrian Peterson. Run DMC is way better than Adrian because McFadden is more patience, trusts his blockers and can line up in the Wild Hog formation, an asset to deceive any defensive line. Darren’s ability to play both quarterback and running back will push him over the top. Furthermore, Darren is a team player who is not selfish and is okay with sharing the backfield with fellow running backs Felix Jones and Peyton Hillis. This transferable skill will bode well for whichever team drafts him. Congratulations, Darren!

College Football Warts and All

Dan Wetzel’s blind advocacy for a playoff without conducting due diligence is unfounded for this reason:

All conferences should either have or disband a championship game. The Bowl Championship Series does not mandate this because currently neither the PAC-10, Big East, nor Big Ten have them. Eliminating the championship game removes the corporate interests currently involved in college sports. You must sell advertising, accommodations essentially everything but the game which is ludicrous because it is the reason behind the playoffs. Some conferences such as the ACC openly admit that if not for the corporate interests, it would not have created a championship game. The conference plans to move its championship game from Jacksonville, Florida to Charlotte because of decreased revenue. Furthermore, no coach would want to play one more game thereby increasing injury to his players.

He should conduct more due diligence before merely speculating that it is the BCS is the Big Ten’s doing especially since there are other conference participants like the SEC, ACC, Big XII, Big East and the PAC-10 that benefit from this system. Mr. Wetzel’s sticks it to the Big Ten rather than the PAC-10 because of the pull of Hollywood. It is easier to battle Midwesterners than powerful entertainment people and if Mr. Wetzel wants to keep his sports entertainment job with Yahoo then he knows who not to upset. In order to have a playoff system all of the big leagues must decide on a uniform code but none would do that proclaiming competitive advantage or rather that’s what make our conference unique. Finally, they would point to the fact that pre-BCS, college football awarded #1 without a playoff system. Though I understand why Mr. Wetzel feels this way especially during this topsy-turvy season without unbiased due diligence, this wayward cry is baseless.

Resolved in 2008: No More Drama

Resolved in 2008: No More Drama! No more waiting for blowback and any other bad emotions pent up inside of me allowing them to fester. It is imperative to immediately address any and all issues that I have either with someone of myself because life is too short to carry grudges. Furthermore, I will diffuse all erroneous and blatant libel and defamation swift and immediately so that they too will not linger. I will be total peace with myself physically, emotionally and spiritually this coming year!

Conversations with my mother and other enlightened discussions

Last night I have told my mother that I have earned a 3.25 grade point average in my initial semester at UDC and she was very pleased. Then I divulged that maybe I was a nerd for carrying three different kinds of calculators to which she said that I was not and recommended that I purchase a leather organizer to store all of them. Afterward, Mom notified me that one of my maternal cousins was expecting in the summer (Hopefully, it would be August because we need more Leos :)). Upon learning that she worked at a restaurant, immediately I cringed remembering the woman at the Wendy’s drive-in who returned to work one month after giving birth. I did not want her to end up like that. My mother then says that another cousin was stressed over her supervisory job at MBNA to which I responded she was probably working with seasonal people who would not return after January. Finally, I confessed that I bought a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes in addition to the laptop as personal Christmas presents. Her reply “Get out!” When I explained to her that how I miscalculated how I would walk in these shoes because they were four-inch heels instead of the one and one-half inch heels of my gold shoes, mommy asserted that I would not be working in them merely attending parties. Furthermore, I should buy a shoe travel bag (She’s very big on bags this Christmas season!). All in all it was great speaking to her because I can tell her anything!

This conversation also crystallizes my 2008 goals because now my math grade goal will be a B+ and I will focus more on my music which are very important to me. In the beginning of 2007, with precalculus being the most advanced math class I’ve ever taken, I could never have imagined that I would earn a B in calculus I and calculus II! This is big for me. However, during our talk, she’s also mentioned the need for balance; and with two USDA distance learning classes outstanding which must be finished, I should heed this clarion call. Taking out more time for me is one of my 2008 resolutions!

Sean Taylor Posthumously Selected to His Second Pro Bowl

Sean Taylor was posthumously selected to start in what would have been his second Pro Bowl. The fans admired his work and even in death recognized his contributions not just to the Washington Redskins but to the National Football League. Taylor will be sorely missed.

A Haute Couture Christmas

Christmas present to myself: I have bought the Jimmy Choo shoes that I have always wanted (the red ones fit better than the black ones plus it’s my favorite color). However, they are four inches (I thought that since my 1 1/2 inch heels have a thinner heel, that the four inches' thicker heel would cancel out any uncomfortable feelings). Though I am 5’ 11” never in my wildest dreams have I ever thought that I would have to transform into Giselle, Tyra or Naomi (Secretly, I wonder how they do it especially when they have to break in new pairs of five inch heels minutes before embarking on the runway). They are so high that my right foot ALMOST cramped and these shoes work my calf muscles (I am used to flats but the ones at the store fit too snug and I worry about them rubbing against my toes). Furthermore, the carpet in my room and apartment are harder than the store’s compounding the problem. Oh well, I have four weeks to break them in so I will be okay! At least I have stayed within my budget!

Opportunity Journal #17: Push, Persistence and Perseverance Pay Dividends

Yesterday my professor returned my take-home exam and on its front sheet had my score and overall course grade which astounded me because I did not think that I earned a B. This pleasantly surprised me and immediately I thought about taking calculus III and not fighting over finishing the lab assignment's last problem because there was enough cushion to sustain myself. Also I learned that I was the only student who completely solved all of the problems (because well, that was what was required of me so I did it!). During the beginning of the review session, another student talked about one who departed early. I told him that he resided far away and since it was an evening class, the trains and buses took longer. However, I secretly did not condone him leaving early because last year when I lived in Arlington, VA and had AU night classes (sometimes the class concluded at 10:40pm), I had to take two rail lines and bus to arrive home at midnight sometimes 1m and had to awake at 7am to take a bus then transfer to rail to get to work. Furthermore, (I know that I am a Type A but still) as an immigrant, he should had some grit in him because his family came to the US to seek better opportunity.

Oftentimes I am confounded by my drive to be the best that I can be. As soon as I received this job, I finished school transferred to AU, and continued my education even when I moved to Arlington. Now after improving my math skills at UDC, I am reapplying to AU to complete my MA in Economics degree. Sometimes, my type A personality puts me into overdrive but I still
manage to get at least six hours of sleep and reclaim my weekends. It's all about balance and striking that has enabled me to enhance both my personal and professional lives!

Today my boss informed me via email that the agency has approved my calculus III tuition request! Immediately I search for the training form on the Intranet but could not find it; so, I ask the secretary who then ask my boss to locate it. During this time, I find a paper version, complete and copy it then return it to the secretary to process. I want my form processed by Thursday (which with the antsy HR man that I have will happen!) because UDC's returning student registration deadline is December 21.

Calculus III is very important to me and upon learning that integration will not be mentioned, further motivates me to enroll. In addition, my first choice for doctoral school has told me that calculus III along with regression is its requirements; meaning, that this will be the first time since my undergraduate years at Hiram, that I have entered school with all of the required math courses. Furthermore, with my MBA I can finish the program within 4 1/2 years instead of the standard 5 years which makes me extremely happy! It is about push, persistence and perseverance!

Darren McFadden Got the Heisman Shaft

I totally disagree with awarding the Heisman trophy to Tim Tebow over Darren McFadden because his own conference, the SEC, gives Darren Offensive Player of the Year honors. If the Georgia Bulldogs cannot play for the BCS national championship because it hasn’t won the SEC conference championship, then why should Tim Tebow when his won conference hasn’t voted him the best offensive player? Furthermore, Tim hasn’t defeated the #1 team, the LSU Tigers, but the Razorbacks have. In addition, half of this decade’s winners are unemployed (Eric Crouch, Chris Weinke and Jason White). Everyone agrees that Darren is the better overall player meaning that Tim will the fourth winner not playing in the NFL while McFadden will garner Pro Bowl selections and Super Bowl championships! What a shaft!

My Take On the BCS

Honestly, I feel that Ohio State should have played Hawaii since it is the sole undefeated team in the top 25 myself. That’s what I hate about the BCS. Ohio State deserves to be number 1 but should not Hawaii at least be number 2? Both teams win their respective conferences. Though many people proclaim that capitalism is the undercurrent for selecting LSU, remember Baton Rouge is 55 miles away from New Orleans so many of the hotels will go unfilled. If Hawaii is selected there will be virtually no vacancies since they will have to seek shelter on the mainland. Furthermore, how can the committee pick Kansas over Missouri when the Tigers not the Jayhawks make it to the Big XII championship? . The Jayhawks play only one top 25 opponent (Kansas State) so the BCS is bogus. Moreover, the Rose Bowl committee chooses traditional over reality by selecting Illinois over Georgia to play USC. I would prefer to see Georgia play USC However, the one decision I respect is to place LSU, the SEC conference champion, over Georgia who was ranked #4 in the BCS. If you cannot win your own division, you should not play in the championship period (Please take note Georgia football coach Mark Richt!)

Jason Whitlock is a Butthole who Should Be Fired for Misreporting the Facts

Jason Whitlock deserves to be fired for writing such an incompetent piece on Sean Taylor admitting in his article" Taylor's Death a Grim Reminder for Us All" that he does not know all of the facts (He calls it "aggressive speculation". Immediately I have posted my response that both the Washington Redskins and Sean Taylor’s family will sue him for libel and defamation of character plus forwarded my complaint to Kansas City Star’s Reader’s Representative because this is against journalistic ethics. You cannot report on anything without knowing all of the facts. This is a case of racism because if Jason Whitlock was a white man misreporting the fact, he would have been fired!

I have contacted both FoxSports.com and the Washington Redskins because this is the ultimate form of libel and defamation of character. Mr. Whitlock has no right to speculate when the police has not conducted a proper investigation. What every by now knows is that a burglar entered his house eight days before the murder, left a knife on his bed then returned during the middle of the night to kill him in front of his girlfriend and 18-month old daughter. This is not random but a planned, cold, calculated murder and the guilty parties must be convicted to the fullest of the law!

Olin Buchanan is a Jerk!

Rivals.com writer Olin Buchanan is an immature jerk who labels people whenever he cannot win an argument. Yesterday he called me a "Tebow hater" after I have told him the truth that Darren McFadden not Tim Tebow defeated the #1 LSU Tigers. Initially, I thought that this would blow over and since turning thirty, wanted to not get emotionally involved with pettiness; but, name calling is something totally different.

For the record, I do not hate Tim Tebow but let's be clear: his jinx is the fact that during his freshman year he won the national championship but this year hasn't positioned the Gators to win the SEC championship let alone the national one. Furthermore, his focus is winning repeat national championships not the Heisman which is true and Timothy has professed this in interviews earlier this season. Therefore, I am not lying by proclaiming that Tim would not be upset if he does not win the Heisman because this is not his primary focus. Moreover, his individual production of 20 rushing and 20 throwing touchdowns have not translated into wins because the Gators have three losses. Mr. Buchanan obviously cannot see that lack of ineffectiveness. For example, look at Chase Daniel, Missouri's quarterback. His numbers are not even in the same category as Tebow's but he has positioned his team to be #1 in the polls. The Heisman winner usually plays for the championship or is somewhere close to it. Therefore, that is my reasons why after careful analysis, Tim Tebow may not win the Heisman.

This year the fans have been treated to the most surprises. Anyone can get beaten on any given Saturday and that's the beauty of college football. If Tim Tebow does win, I have no problem with it but I know that he'll rather hoist the BCS national championship than the Heisman any day of the week!

Rest in peace, Sean Taylor (1983-2007)

Sean Taylor’s death has really broken me up because it was only late last night that the news reported him responsive. Here he was 24 years old with an 18-month daughter, who was in the house when the allegedly botched robbery occurred, murdered. The bullet hit a major artery in his leg and he bled out. His death forces me to reevaluate my priorities because I haven’t been putting things into perspective. This whole calculus II thing does not matter remotely as much because if I fail (which I will not), I can simply retake it. Sean Taylor is dead. There are no retakes!

Memo from the Upper Crust

Attending the Cleveland Club of Washington was an eye-opening experience because I wasn’t the only person who did not know about it. This group, founded in 1957, celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. The Cleveland Plus presentation has made me feel much better about my beloved Cleveland area because there was much growth. The presenter correctly informed us that though we were hearing doom and gloom stories about Cleveland, no one resided in Cleveland proper which was true. All attendees were suburbanites. But still, we identified ourselves as Clevelanders! Cleveland Plus created a statistical area containing sixteen counties including Akron, Youngstown and Toledo in its demographic. However, it was important to ensure that native Clevelanders could fully participate in this job market. The reason why most of the attendees left was job opportunities. There were more entry-level economist job here than in Cleveland. The dearth of entry-level and middle-level opportunities really hit the area hard because there was no bridge between the two. It was just all upper-level management jobs. Honestly if the National City job reopened, I’d seriously reconsider it because I knew that I had the experience plus the bank would pay me adequate compensation.

Yet most people weren’t as gung ho because they felt returning to Cleveland was professional suicide because Washington was on a higher plateau (Well, DC was neither NY nor LA and people did fine!). This one lady said that she had been here 2 ½ years and that everyone including family dissuaded her from returning to Cleveland proclaiming that she’d outgrown the place. I didn’t feel that way because many of my Cleveland colleagues worked as vice-presidents and held upper management positions so I would fit right in. This experience helped me realize that it was people not places that were the great equalizer because if you knew the right people you could always get another job. I could unequivocally say that even if I do not return professionally, I could see myself staying there during retirement because Cleveland was not a rat race place.

You Don't Get What You Deserve, You Get What You Negotiate II

Today the student loan agency has agreed to align one of my loan forbearance with the other due date. This is a major coup because this is the first time I have ever negotiated this with any type of financial concern. Also dissatisfied with my current career trajectory, I use my Linkedin and MySpace connections to search for a professional resume reviewer. I have received two good emails which is better than not asking. Remember, you don't get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate!

Quit Hating on Ohio State and the Big Ten

The Ohio State Buckeyes are the number 1 college football team. Unlike then #3 Oklahoma who lost to unranked Colorado, former #1 USC lost to unranked Stanford, and former #2 Boston College losing to unranked Florida State, Ohio State just keeps winning which is more than what everyone else can say. Furthermore, I disagree that the Big Ten is weak especially when six teams (Wisconsin, Penn State, Illinois, Purdue, Ohio State, and Michigan) have been in the top 25 at one point during this season which is more than what the Pac-10, Big Sky, ACC, and Big Twelve can say!

You Don’t Get What You Want, You Get What You Negotiate

Today I call the student loan agency to confirm my ninety-day forbearance which will save me over $500 in the next two months because I’m only taking four credits at UDC. This is a perfect example of you don’t get what you want, you get what you negotiate.

Opportunity Journal #16: Reading is Fundamental

During yesterday's math class I realized how dedicated and disciplined I was because in the beginning, I taught myself integration by reading and outlining chapter 5 to arrive at this point. That was remarkable because it is a testament to the importance of literacy. Reading is truly fundamental.

This three-day weekend I will apply this skill to ensure that I secure the promotion. When I inquire about why the divisional information is not the agency's Intranet, the branch chief has given me the binder holding with all of the confidential information! Now that's what I call insider information. My ability to read and comprehend this manual all but ensures my promotion.

During lunch I devised a timeline to gauge when I should receive notification of my first economist interview. Since my interview is Monday, October 22, 2007, Sharon should have an answer by Monday, November 5th. My second interview is Wednesday, October 24, 2007, and I should receive an answer by Wednesday, November 7th. During this process, I will still continue monitoring my data sources, revising my flowcharts, work on my Aspiring Leaders Development Program application because regardless of what transpires, I can control my performance.

This is mine and no one will ever claim it!

Opportunity Journal Entry #15: Taking Charge

Yippee! The division program manager emails me for my agency's ZP-III Economist interview. This is important because now I have two opportunities to remain here while securing the promotion. Initially, I was happy but afterward a little afraid about my newfound fortune because I really did not want to work for her but still wanted to remain on the eighth floor (Okay so I am picky but have just realized that since I work within the division neither my boss nor his supervisor can interview me).

Never back down from opportunities! Embrace it especially since my boss’ boss has told me that I had to become a subject expert and wait until the end of the county cycle. Already I am thinking of ways to successfully convert my skills into the ZP-III promotion. Having just revised my flowcharts, I can take all of my experience of using different data to complete my state components as a sign that I am a flexible problem-solver (Who can argue with that?). Furthermore, during my seventeen-month tenure, I have completed two state cycles and one county cycle, received pay-for-performance. Moreover, I am the youngest Data Review Tool (DRT) member who is selected because I have taken both SAS A/F classes and am responsible for maintaining the frame. Capitalizing upon all of these opportunities enable me to take charge of my career.

I Think I Have Gotten It!

Though the ladies at the local ladies chapter was nice, professional and sophisticated, I felt that I could reach the next level by becoming a Link. And for the first time, I did not feel guilty for my ambition. I am a Leo and a Type-A personality who come here to DC to conquer the world and I refuse to defer my dreams to accommodate others’ expectations! It’s my decision to fulfill all of my potential especially on the heels of interviewing for the ZP-III Economist. I already have the qualifications: an MBA, community service record and a high-profile job. Furthermore, since properly managing time, I can now devote my attention to becoming an Alpha Kappa Alpha. I’ve always loved education because that’s the reason why I am an economist and believe that I can contribute on the scholarship committee. However, I cannot foresee myself moving from this chapter to Washington, DC one because the ladies are so hospitable (I don’t know the DC ladies but I don’t want to lose that homey feeling). Also I have some Links in my other online profile but I cannot see myself telling them that I want to become a member because that’s opportunism; and, I avoid that at all costs because I possess the qualifications therefore I’ll be okay.

Lately I have been thinking about returning to Akron to see my maternal family, attend civic events and the uproar of wearing high fashion. Living in Washington, DC, wearing Armani Exchange and Stuart Weitzman shoes are seem as normal but returning to Akron would cause a stir. How many people have purchased $135 sandals (not shoes, but sandals?) and wear $250 Limited suits? However, every time I travel a learning experience ensues, therefore, I expect no less from fellow Akroners.

My dreams have been providing the road map to navigate around obstacles to become a Link. It is becoming clearer that God has been transmitted messages using my dreams as conduits informing me that I can be whomever I want, just do not lose yourself in the process! A Ha! I finally get why all of my dreams revolve around family because I hold them dear (even though they get on my nerves at times!).

Bill Cosby is an Adulterer and a Hypocrite!

My take on Bill Cosby, a serial adulterer writing family books: He is a hypocrite! Everyone in black America knows this about him. Furthermore, his ability to write books on black Americans is a testament to race because if former Reverend James Baker were to publish the same stuff, no publisher would risk his/her livelihood on releasing it.

Book Review: The Vixen Diaries by Karrine Steffans

The Vixen Diaries is a testament of maturity and accountability that the author has accepted during the aftermath of Confessions of a Video Vixen. Karrine recounts the positive and negative reactions from fellow celebrities; newfound financial stability; hypocrisy of Tyra Banks and Donnie Deutsch (both people passively question Hugh Hefner although he has three girlfriends) and the sympathy Oprah shows regarding her story; how speaking to students at historically black college Philander Smith in Arkansas boosts her self-esteem; and regaining custody of her son after having a nervous breakdown; her personal relationships with Bill Maher, Antonio Tarver, Bobby Brown and Ray-J; and the passing of R&B legend Gerald Levert. These experiences helped her overcome her demons.

Karrine reconciles her past and by the end of the novel practices forgiveness for herself and her mother. During her relationship with Antonio Tarver she lets go over her torrid past in Tampa, deciding to blaze a new trail. Furthermore, Ms. Steffans is neither having continual nervous breakdowns after the failure of a relationship nor pulling the covers over her head like the boogeyman is coming to snatch everything away; she possesses solid self-worth thereby no longer defines herself by the man in her life. Most importantly, even with incessant name dropping of past beaus (she reveals Papa as rapper Method Man of the Wu-Tang Clan), Karrine has realized to keep her current love interest secret because sometimes it is best to keep what is private, private. The Vixen Diaries is a complete 180 degree turn from its predecessor, Confessions of a Video Vixen;but in order for Karrine Steffans to survive let alone thrive, she has had to put the mirror to her face and change.

Notes from the Republican All-American Presidential Forum (Why I Will Vote Democratic in 2008!)

I must respond to the Republican accusations that all black people are welfare recipients. Here’s is my summary:

The problems I have with the Republican Party during yesterday's All-American Presidential Forum viewing black people as welfare recipients even though 65% of welfare rolls comprise of white people) and the ardent advocacy for states’ rights in the midst of Jena and the unfair application of the death penalty persists after the conclusion of All-American Presidential Forum at Morgan State University in Baltimore. Moreover, in the prologue of Dr. Martin Luther King’s Why We Can’t Wait he details a married couple, the wife who works as a live-in maid for a family and her husband who is unemployed yet this union possesses two characteristics not present in the Republican nominees’ answers :1) does not result in divorce and 2) result in welfare roll dependency. It amazes me that Duncan Hunter is against DC statehood because the district disallows guns in homes. Further it blows me away that Tom Tancredo asserts that if DC wants to achieve statehood then the part ceded to Virginia should returned and the part ceded to Maryland should be returned. However, West Virginia was a part of, you guessed it, Virginia but it achieved statehood. Then this morning again Tavis Smiley says that we should not have been surprised with the answers we’ve received given whom we are talking. However, this just serves as one more reminder of why I will vote Democratic in 2008!

Progressive

At this stage of my life, I only entertain progressive ideas because my life is about truth and growth. Though I’ve never been childish, turning thirty has accelerated my maturity and significantly reduced my tolerance for ignorance. My time on earth is too precious for any craziness that zaps my joy! I have designated this week as financial advising week because I want to invest and have my money work for me. Well, no sooner did I write that did MSN have an article about women investing. Hmmm, this is affirming! My lifelong goal is to become the first black female Fortune 500 CEO, therefore, I declare war on anything regressive! I am too focused on being progressive!

Opportunity Journal Entry #14: Don't Hate Participate!

The woman on the board of my local economics club asked me if I would volunteer for the annual dinner and council of economic advisors debate! Would I ever? I would be honored because that exposure would help me in so many ways. Although I had missed this Tuesday's class beacuse of my meeting, I will not hesitate to attend the annual luncheon next Tuesday.

At least the debate is Friday morning meaning that I'll get paid because it was career-related! I could incorporate my Toastmasters public speaking skills, treasury management techniques and hobnob with the most prominent people in my field. Viewing this debate would also let me observe how executive economic policy is made. I am humbled by her decision to ask me first because that means that I am emanating positive energy!

Opportunity Journal Entry #13: Aspiring to Be Better

The Department has notified everyone that the Aspiring Leaders Development Program (ALDP) vacancy will open next Friday, September 28, 2007. This time with 16 months under my belt, I know feel confident that I will be chosen for this position! Furthermore, as Treasurer of my Toastmasters, I possess true leadership experience to improve not only my agency but the entire department. Moreover, the ALDP will supply transferable skills to help me handle three other associations' 2008 annual conferences. This presents another opportunity to learn more skills while boosting my pay! I will become a ZP-III economist! :)

Introspection

After viewing singers who’d I grew up listening to MySpace profiles and learned that they had married and moved on I reexamined my personal evolution. I was not 18 but 30, had my own apartment, worked in my major, lived in DC and possessed two degrees. Analyzing my personal and professional progress made me happy and appreciative because many friends and family hadn’t had the same opportunities and sometimes drive that I had. Those artists inspired and motivated me with their songs and I could honesty had said my life would not had as full as it would had been without these songs.

My Kind of Sunshine

Earlier this morning I discussed an apartment problem that I had had ever since moving here calmly with my landlady and it was quietly resolved. She put my name on the maintenance list ensuring that it would rectified. This exchange pinpointed the importance of being cordial when addressing a problem because it yields better results than hollering. People just shut down and problem still persisted. As I mature I realized that life was too hectic to be aggravated over minor mishaps.

A Peek Behind the Curtain

I remembered the stories that my father and his sister would tell me around shooting his bb gun at the residential naked-man who flash them in the projects. Never in a million years would I had thought that the same thing would had happened to me; but, it did and on Massachusetts Avenue of all places. In Washington, DC Mass. Ave. was known as Embassy Row an upscale avenue of embassies. My apartment building sits across the street from the Embassy of Tunisia. On Sunday, I opened my window to take in the view that I paid an extra $15 a month to partake and boy did I get more than what I bargained for because the naked man (actually he was along with a naked woman) were making out in plain view across the street at the Courtyard Marriott. I was in complete disbelief. The naked man got an upgrade and was right across from me. And on Sundays of all days. Since these two love birds did not know that they are publicly displaying their affection for each other in such an urbane environment and numerous residential calls flooded the hotel desk, they quickly pulled the curtains. Sheesh! Have some respect why don’t you?!

Book Review: Giving by Bill Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton’s newest book, Giving, highlights people rich and not-so-rich, who have made a difference in the lives of marginalized communities. Mr. Clinton has a special affinity for the black community and mentions Osceola McCarthy, the elderly woman who after dropping out of high school to care for an aunt, spent the next 57 years washing clothes. During this time she saved over $150,000 which she donated to the University of Southern Mississippi as an endowed scholarship; John Hope Bryant who started the Silver Rights Movement proclaiming the financial empowerment will be the civil rights battle of the 21st Century; and Tavis Smiley, PBS correspondent, author of both The Covenant with Black America and the Covenant in Action, and moderator of the Democratic and Republican All-American Presidential Forums. On pages 130-131 Clinton asserts that the Covenant is “the most comprehensive American model for citizen service I’ve come across also centers on African Americans, but can be adopted by others…I cannot begin to do justice to The Covenant movement, to the power of its inspiration, instruction, and examples.” The former president makes a calculated attempt to round up the black vote for Hillary’s 2008 presidential campaign especially since Barack Obama is the most viable black candidate in ages.

Giving also features philanthropic luminaries such as Bill and Melinda Gates, Bono of U2, William Buffett, who have donated billions of dollars to AIDS victims and undeserved communities. However, with Time magazine’s criticism that Clinton lets the government off easy since his spouse is vying for the presidency because throughout chapter 12 he highlights numerous non-governmental organizations which fill in for government’s absence. He never specifically pinpoints how the federal government, Democratic or Republican, can effectively deliver AIDS medication, reduce climate change and improve education. Even with this daring oversight, Giving, still achieves its feel-good mission to encourage every American to give what he ort she can to improve the betterment of his fellow man.

Opportunity Journal Entry #12: Clarity

Even though my leg muscles are weak and I really do not feel like reviewing math right now, I will still make a concerted effort; the concerted effort paid off because solving four of the Bernoulli problems (two of them on my own) boost my confidence! Now I feel that I can ace this quiz however I will still review this equation and both the general and particular solutions. Starting today whenever I have a problem or want to expand my learning, I will travel to the UDC MAC to work with tutors. Finally, I no longer fear integration. I just have to work on it!

My boss' boss mistakenly sent an invitation to meet regarding promotions and other personnel matters. My ZP-III promotional meeting really shook him enough (He admitted that the current system was unclear!) to schedule one with the program managers. Clear, concise rules would benefit everyone in the division. Furthermore, my speaking out further helped the entire workplace because with the pay-for-performance deadline six weeks away, clarity is important (Although he already acknowledged that I would be getting one!).

Opportunity Journal Entry #11: Speaking the Honest Truth

While giving my seventh speech in the Toastmaster competent communication manual, I have learned that the advanced manuals only have five speeches instead of ten. Therefore, after completing my competent communication manual, I will start an advanced one. Since the 2007-2008 Toastmasters year ends on June 30, 2008, I know that I can deliver eight speeches in eight months! Developing my public speaking skills have helped me during my ZP-III promotion meeting with my immediate supervisor and his boss.

Though I do like the time lag between the GS and pay band schedules, at least he has given me some great feedback(Although I honestly feel that if another GS-11 opportunity comes along then I will take it because my personal timetable does not match my boss' boss.). ZP-III is a subject matter position so I must become well-versed in all of my components especially the laarge government programs. I will request information from these federal agencies to learn more about it. Also, after I return to my room, I will relearn SAS. He has also mentioned that I am doing well enough to receive another pay increase and also acknowledges that the pay band system is not as clear as the GS. However, I have pried a timetable out of him. He reviews ZP-III promotions after 20 months of service so I will excel on my county estimate cycle and prepare to become a subject matter expect so that I can petition for my ZP-III increase. Whether or not I am here at the BEA, becoming a subject matter expert is a helpful career move regardless of the position. I like research so this will be easy. Speaking of subjects I will research the Pell Grant for my research report. Honestly I like researching higher education because I place such a high value on it so I will take to my boss about how to go about it.

Clearing the air and knowing what is expected of me presents an abundance of opportunities to excel on the job and in the game of life.

Guardian of Truth

Okay. Black culture has hit a new low when Tom Joyner endorses the playing of a BET cartoon that curses at children. We should never compromise our integrity especially regarding our children! That’s ridiculous! We as adults should never bow down to lowest common denominator just to get something across to our youth. As a member of Generation Y, I am particularly concerned with the negative images being fed to my generation and I aim to stop this cartoon before it airs.

Yesterday I posted my discontentment with the Russ Parr Morning Show and now I am displaying my disapproval to acquiescing to crude behavior of the Tom Joyner Morning Show. This ordeal has made realize that regardless of format, I must decipher all messages and remain vigilant in promoting positive images inside and outside the black community.

Maturity at Age 30

Okay this is another sign of maturity. I’ve changed the channel from the Tom Joyner Morning Show to listen the Russ Parr Morning Show and instead of uplifting the people they are talking of Keke Wyatt’s Essence magazine comments about her proclaiming that although she’s 25% black with long hair and a pointy nose, that she fights on behalf of black people with dark skin and big noses. I guess my whole aggravation comes from B plus’ comment that it is to claim many different things (I am not against biracial people but Barack Obama calls himself black.) Most of the callers know the singer and says that she’s come from the project (which is funny because it’s always someone who wants to deny where he/she comes from). With all of this nonsense, I’ve missed the new Sounds of Blackness song Kings and Queens. Well, that’s a sign that as I turn 30, I am focusing on what is important. For the record, black people should create a classification system defining who is black. Why worry about someone else’s self-definition when there are real battles to fight. I wish all of those people the best, but when the police pull them over and throw them in jail, don’t call the NAACP to bail you out and fight on your behalf because remember you are not black in the first place.