SMU Hilltop Ambassadors

By Elizabeth Bandera
ebandera@smu.edu

Returning to SMU for my sophomore year was a little more relaxing than last year - there are familiar faces everywhere I look, which makes the whole returning-to-school phase easier. Freshman year was amazing, but it certainly is nice coming back to SMU knowing you have good friends waiting for you. I actually returned to campus two weeks early for SMU Mustang Band camp, learning how to march and play our latest tunes. We started our day at 8:00 a.m. and continued all the way to 11:00 p.m. (with a few breaks) for a week straight. I'm not going to lie, it was tiring, but it's always a LOT of fun and our new freshmen class is great!

I also finally bought a much-needed planner for this year...fall semester is going to be a doozie. I've signed up for Biology, Physics 2, Calculus 3, North American Archaeology, and Triathlon, which have been going well so far. Triathlon is my Wellness 2 class (or P.E. credit in other words) and it is intense. We've been swimming, running, and biking all week and my legs feel like jello. Just the other day my good friend in the class was biking and ran straight into a pole! She was perfectly fine, but our abs hurt from laughing.

What I'm really excited for is our Mock Trial team for this coming year! Our information session had a strong number of people and all of them seemed very enthusiastic about joining. We're planning to travel to St. Louis, MO and Atlanta, GA for a few tournaments this year, which will be great experiences. A few more tournaments are in the works right now, so we'll just have to wait and see!

It looks like it is going to be an incredible year!

By Lizzie Brubaker
ebrubake@smu.edu

I love this line. It's from a Jimmy Buffett song in case you didn't know but I love it because it reminds me that I'm still in college. While I'm already a senior, I do still have time to learn and grow. I can't believe how fast the years have gone. It's week two of senior year and it's already in full swing. Since I got back to Dallas Friday the 21st, I had two meetings, an orientation, lots of unpacking and lots of laundry, all before classes even began! I am super lucky this year to be living in an apartment right off campus with my best friend. She spent her spring semester studying in Copenhagen so it's definitely nice to have her back! I'll be sure to tell you more later about all your housing opportunities on and off campus. The Daily Update, SMU's own TV station, is back in full swing producing shows Monday through Friday. To view the shows you can go to www.smudailymustang.com. While the first few weeks of the show are a learning experience for all, getting back into the swing and learning new positions, it's starting to come together. If you're even remotely interested in journalism or television I highly encourage you to contact Tommy Newton in the Meadows recruiting office to schedule your visit to the Daily Update! Since school began I've produced three shows (not all planned!) and today I got on set and told the SMU community how they really don't need to worry about the H1N1 virus-simply practice good hygiene! I think I'm due for a nap since I've been up since 5:15.

I hope you're school year is off to a great start! Be sure to visit us on campus soon.

By Courtney Steele
csteele@smu.edu

The first full week of classes is under way! Campus is bustling with first years finding their way around, upperclassmen getting back in the routine and thankfully there's plenty of sunshine (tanning pool anyone?)! Everyone is busy with work already but happy to be reunited with old friends and excited to meet new ones too! Campus looks gorgeous as usual, my Shakespeare professor wore a full white suit, pink shirt and black bow tie on the first day of class (that's pretty legit y'all) and we're all amped for this weekend's "white out" football home opener! (Operation Sellout has begun!) Boulevarding umbrellas are going up and prep is underway. Our "All grit. No quit." team is ready for the win! Pony Up y'all!

By Derek Hubbard
dhubbard@smu.edu

It seems like only yesterday I was preparing for my college journey with my parents. Now I am two weeks into my sophomore year here at SMU, Wow! Time sure does fly when you're having fun. My freshman year was everything that everyone told me it would be. However, I did have a few surprises along the way. I learned how to do my own laundry and how to survive without mom's home cooking. Nonetheless, this second year at SMU is going to be somewhat different. Why, you might ask. Well, the theme for my year is FOCUS. Simple put, I am placing all of my energy toward the things that are important to me for the year. In this case, school work, extra-curriculars, and having fun are at the top of the list. In order for me to stay focused, I must remember why I am here.
1. To get an education.
2. To develop life long friendships.
3. To receive an experience that you cannot receive anywhere else.

I am eager to begin this FOCUS campaign. It is sure to keep me busy and of course focused.

Until next time....Pony Up!

By Liz Dominguez
adominguez@smu.edu

It's Friday! I'm so happy the weekend is finally here. The weekend is going to be a great jumping off point to get all of my assignments for next week out of the way. It's about that time for professors to schedule their tests, papers, projects, etc. I'll be able to give an update as to my performance next blog. Until then...I can say so many things about this WEATHER! It has been raining on and off ALL week long. I'll get up in the morning, check the weather, and see that the forecast has clear skies all day, go to class in flip flops - all to walk out of my first class to pouring showers! And it's been like this for quite a while. I think a total of 20 rain drops fell all day, so I hope it doesn't pick up later on. Until then, I'll keep my rain boots in standby mode - you can't come to college without a pair. =)

By Natalie Sharp
nsharp@smu.edu

One of the many great things about Dallas is our wonderful weather! Our weather has something to offer for every person, whether you come from the North, East, South or West. Our summers are scorching hot, our falls are gorgeous, our springs are fantastic and our winter's cold. Dallas, Texas gives SMU students a taste of everything, which is great! It's also a lot of fun to be able to shop for all seasons as well. One day you might purchase some fabulous new sandals while the next day you might find yourself purchasing some trendy UGG boots. (SMU students also sport rain boots, which are totally cute, on those seldom rainy days. Actually, for the past two weeks Dallas has seen nothing BUT RAIN! I love the storms though, not going to lie!) Anyway, today in Dallas the weather feels great and is sunny with a cool breeze. Can anyone say..."perfect?" If you are around SMU this week, you might be lucky enough to see students biking and rollerblading!

By Natalie Sharp
nsharp@smu.edu

Fall Break for me officially starts Friday at ten in the morning. Hallelujah! It seems like this semester has been dragging on forever but at the same time it has flown by. Is that even possible? I have been so busy with school and work lately that I have had little time for my social life so I am looking forward to a much needed break. I am also looking forward to catching up with friends and celebrating my best friend's birthday! The weather is also perfect in Dallas, besides the rain. Hope everyone is having a great week and Happy Fall!

By Derek Hubbard
dhubbard@smu.edu

Today is Thursday, October 8! That might not be of significance to anyone, but for SMU students, it means FALL BREAK!!! WOO HOO!!! Fall break is an opportunity for us to have a 4 day weekend essentially. There will be no classes on Monday or Tuesday. That also means that next week will be a relatively short week. Fall break could not have come at a better time. It always hits right after teachers have belabored us with midterms, essays, and group projects. By this time every year, we are walking zombies!

Some people have grandiose plans for their fall break. Some folks are headed to Cabo and others are going to the Midwest. However, I am going to the COUNTRY. Yes, I said the country. I am from Hooks, Texas, and in case you have no idea where that is (which no one does) let me explain for you. Hooks is 2 and 1/2 hours northeast of Dallas and 15 minutes from Texarkana. I am anxiously awaiting my arrival in the town of 2,000 people where I will be greeted by my parents and other family members. Going home means being able to sleep all day, eat mom's awesome food, and enjoy the peace and serenity that comes from living in the woods.

Fall break is going to be the perfect vacation that I have been waiting for all semester. Although I love SMU with all of my heart and soul, it is still comforting to know that I can always go home.

Until next time...Pony UP!

By Greg Nelson
rgnelson@smu.edu

It was great to have some time away from classes for fall break, even if it only was two extra days. Over the break, the SMU Mustang football team played another game, its first home game since the beginning of the season. We played East Carolina University, a good Conference-USA foe. Although there were only 13,000 people there to see it, those 13,000 got their money's worth. SMU blocked a kick and returned it for a touchdown, an interception for a touchdown and a 97 yard touchdown pass. It was an exciting game and an exciting win that makes us 3-2 on the season.

Though the weather wasn't great, (50's and raining) my roommates and I decided to go golfing and just enjoy the days of freedom from classes and homework. Hopefully the weather will get better in the few weeks we have before thanksgiving break and ultimately the end of the semester.

By Derek Hubbard
dhubbard@smu.edu

Those words above come from one of my favorite musical duos Chester French. The duo sings about the importance of rest and sleeping. This concept is ever important in this fast, crazy world we live in. Furthermore, sleep is one of the things you need most of while in college, yet most students will agree that sleep is a foreign friend that only comes once in a blue moon. With that being said, I would like to introduce the Top 5 Reasons to get Sleep in College!

5. Reduces the need for Botox
4. To make it out to the Boulevard during football season
3. So you don't fall asleep in your 8 am
2. To fight off H1N1
1. Because Red Bull will only get you so far

And there you have it folks! Remember, do your best to achieve at least 8 hours of sleep while in college. Trust me, you will be more successful, have more energy, and you will be happier if you do. Plus, your body will thank you.

Sweet dreams, and until next time...Pony UP!

Derek

P.S. "Sleep is amazing."-Courtney Steele
P.P.S in case you couldn't tell-i'm sarcastic!

By Cameron Smith
camsmith@smu.edu

When first arriving at college, I came the rude awakening that things cost money, and often times too much. Once at college many of the financial burdens of eating and spending on entertainment were on me. In high school, I found it easy to ask my parents for money for the occasional movie ticket. In college I soon realized how quickly by bank balance was evaporating. Being in college, I have learned how to be a more efficient spender. The first rule is, avoid buying name brand toiletries because they cost more. When eating out, get a water cup to avoid the expensive soft drinks. Take advantage of the meal plan. With the meal plan available to students, one is able to eat on campus whenever needed. If you have already paid for it, use it! Avoid being an impulsive buyer; having the discipline to not buy things you don't need is the first step towards financial happiness in college. But most importantly, GET AN ON CAMPUS JOB!!! Last year I had a job working at the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports. It was a great job, and it allowed me to work on homework occasionally while getting paid. It gave me the chance to meet a lot of people as well as have some extra spending cash for the weekends. If you follow these simple steps, you will be on the right track towards being a more efficient spender!

By Nicholas Cains
Ncains@smu.edu

I have had a revelation.

When assignments become difficult, you don't have to give up. When you have tried your best and still don't make the grade you want, that doesn't mean it's time to quit. That's when it's time to do the most important thing in your college career-- motivate yourself to keep pushing!

Approach the professor...

The first thing on my list is to go ahead and speak to my professor. As you know, this story must be about me, huh? I mean, don't worry, it wasn't a terrible grade-- just a big surprise to me =D. I definitely feel as if I just didn't understand exactly what to put in the essay and I will talk to my professor about it later next week to make sure I have that clarity, ya know.? How embarassing to put this in my blog, but I figured it's ok to not only tell you all the PERFECT things that happen to college students, but also fill you in on the struggles you may run into as well. Don't worry, you're never alone with these problems and the professors I have spoken to have always been wonderful about helping stduents that are engaged with doing better in thier clases. I'm excited to do this.

Don't Get Stuck In That Rut!

It's SO easy to get lost in the fact that something didn't turn out the way I wanted to, but that doesn't help. It's never too late to change my study habits, to work harder, to ask better questions, and keep progressing in this college environment. I'm definitely my biggest critic. It's refreshing to give myself a break every now and again =D.

HOMECOMING WEEKEND

How exciting! I'm gonna be in the Homecoming Parade with Meadows School of the Arts, which will be incredible. Dean Bowen will ride in a convertible and all the students will dress up in Meadows clothing (Shirts, socks, hats, everything) and march in the parade. Sometimes we have little tambourines to pass out along with candy, necklaces, and anything else we have that could be exciting for kids to get. I have a blast in the parade every year and I cannot wait to jump around with all my friends in the street again.

Have a wonderful day everyone and take it easy this weekend.

Sincerely,
Nick Cains

By Courtney Steele
csteele@smu.edu

Hi all! I hope you're having a great week! It was an exciting weekend on campus! There were families visiting, students rushing the field after our win over UTEP (great game boys! Let's go to a bowl!) and the weather was a perfect high of 75 with a light breeze!

As early action admittance decisions are looming, regular decision app deadlines are approaching and final choices are being made, I wanted to share some words of "wisdom" to help you learn more about SMU.
First, visit, visit, visit campus! I don't think any of us can stress this enough! Come out and see what a day in the life of a Mustang is like!
Second, ask us questions! We write these blogs for you to have an insider look into what our lives are like, our routines and show our love for SMU. Our email addresses are listed with each blog, if you have a question, email us! That's what we're here for! Lastly, participate in our online chats. We have a few of these open chat-rooms throughout the semester - this is a time that ambassadors and admission counselors are on hand to answer anything and everything! It's a great way to get your questions answered, but also see what questions other seniors around the country and world have for us! We have one tonight starting at 7:30 Central Time!! Come chat with us!

Have a fun weekend y'all! Pony Up!

By Natalie Sharp
nsharp@smu.edu

Now that Halloween has passed and November has crept upon us, Thanksgiving will be approaching soon. This means a five day weekend for SMU students! I know that I am already ready for this break to start and I am positive that other students would agree. As the end of the semester is nearing, students definitely feel the pressure to finish strong. During the Thanksgiving break I look forward to spending quality time with my family and friends and, of course, remind myself of all that I am thankful for! Often, I believe that many people are so preoccupied with their daily lives and struggles, that we are quick to overlook or possibly forget momentarily what is so great in our lives. Everyone certainly has their own opinion on what is important and meaningful in their lives but it is so important to remember to see the silver lining in everything and try to seek "good" out of everything and everyone. One of the many things that I am thankful for this season is that I am an SMU Mustang! I hope everyone has a great Holiday.

By Cam Smith
camsmith@smu.edu

When heading off to college, one can become so wrapped up in student life, meeting new people, and the pressures of academic success that you lose sight of whats important in life. In college, life moves at a fast pace, and the days fly by. Occassionally one can become so wrapped up in things that they have little time to think of whats most important in life. This upcoming week is Thanksgiving break. I am welcoming the chance to go home and spend time with those I love most. It will give me a chance to reflect on the great things I have been given in my life and focus on what I will do in the future. This nice break will be a great way for me to put things in perspective. To put aside the stress and worries for a week and just realax.

Happy Thanksgiving!

By Cam Smith
camsmith@smu.edu

Part of being in college away from home, is the sometimes uncomforting fact that you will be away from your parents and family for several months at a time. It is natural for first year students to feel some amount of being "homesick." Being away from your close high school friends and in a brand new environment can be challenging. However, most everyone is able to get over these emotions once they have settled into their daily lives in college. When I came to college, I realized that everyone including me was in the same boat in terms of being away from home. After a few months, these feelings went away and I found that SMU had become my new home. Some of my best friends are the ones that I have met here.

This past weekend I went home for the Thanksgiving Holiday. One thing I have learned is that in being away from my parents is that I have a greater love and respect for them. In being home, I appreciate all the time that we get to spend together because it is more limited. I look forward to these breaks when I have a chance to see my parents and my two brothers. It is a great change of pace from the hectic college schedule and a free meal here and there never hurt anyone! I have three weeks left in the semester to work my tail off and get my grades up, then I will be back for winter break. I find that whenever I go home, I feel reenergized and ready to tackle the tasks ahead. It was a very pleasant thanksgiving, and now I am placing my focus upon these next few weeks and studying and working hard.

By Greg Nelson
rgnelson@smu.edu

Getting involved on campus in many different activities is a great way to meet new people and give you new experiences. I am involved with Habitat for Humanity on campus. It is very rewarding and has opened my eyes to new experiences and views on life in general. Throughout the course of the semester, we have done about a build a week on house in north Dallas. We have done everything from setting the roof to the landscaping, which will be done this weekend. Even though most of Habitat for Humanity is building the houses and creating new relationships, there is also the financial part. We have sold koosies, t-shirts and have held a fundraiser, and as a part of the organization, these things mean something to you. They help finance what help you are trying to give. You take a different view of these events however, when you organize and plan them. This coming Tuesday (12/8) is a fundraiser at California Pizza Kitchen in Preston Plaza, which is close to campus. 20% of the check will go to Habitat for Humanity if you present a flyer with the check. It will be a small amount per person in donations. Though we might not make a lot from this, every little bit helps toward the goal of helping people obtain shelter and a place to call home.

GO MUSTANGS!

Greg Nelson
rgnelson@smu.edu

Happy New Year. Hope everyone is getting back into the swing of things and getting used to that school schedule again. It is a little different for me this semester than my previous three because I am taking 18 hours or 6 classes this semester. Usually the norm is 5 classes or 15 hours. There are many other changes for me this semester; such as taking sports management, which is a new course and field of study offered at SMU. This will also be my first semester as an official member of the Cox School of Business, which is very exciting. I am enrolled in three business classes this semester and excited about all of them. Though class and schedules have changed this semester, it's the things that have remained constant that make everything less stressful and comfortable; things like the familiar sight of campus and seeing friends you have been away from for about a month. I know with all of this coming together it is going to be a great semester and I am trying not to think about how after I finish this semester, I will have completed half of my college education. Time flies so enjoy the time you have and do what you love to do!
Go Mustangs!

By Lauren Cook
lwcook@smu.edu

So I need to tell you about this game that I heard about from my friends over Christmas break. It is a scavenger hunt game that exists all over the world. It's called Geocaching. Basically, you become members of geocaching.com, look up your city, and there are TONS of locations in your city that have little treasures hidden somewhere. This game has existed for at least 5 years, so you probably have driven by plenty of treasures! How weird, right? The website provides you ONLY with the GPS coordinates for each location and occasionally gives you a hint. This is what makes it challenging. At each location, there are treasures hidden in either tiny film roll containers or amo boxes--typically hidden under a skirt on a light pole outside or under leaves on the ground. Inside those various containers are trinkets that fellow seekers have left and/or a little scroll of paper where you can sign and see when and who else has been to that spot! It is so exciting! You must be sneaky though, so people don't look at you funny and wonder what you're doing...

Included below is a picture of me at a location called Elks Lodge in Lakeland, FL, where I am from. Sadly, we did not find the prize! We thought it was on the Elk, so I just had to climb up and check....Little did I know that a week or so later another group of friends and I would find a prize at that same spot! We also found one under a light skirt in the McDonald's parking lot that night too :)

I am making myself sound really nerdy right now, but I promise--this game is such a thrill, and people all over the world are doing it! Just go to geocaching.com and start your adventure. From looking at the website, it appears that Dallas has TONS of prizes hidden everywhere. I am so excited to grab some SMU friends and start hunting.

Until next time!

By Lauren Cook
lwcook@smu.edu

I found out this past week that I got accepted into the SMU-in-London program this summer! Words cannot express my excitement! We leave May 28th and come back July 3rd. We get to visit different countries like Scotland, Paris, Italy, etc. on the weekends. Basically, we can go wherever we want as long as it is with one other person and if the distance is reasonable. The first two weekends will be dedicated to touring around London with the group and to places like Stonehenge. How cool?! What's even better is that my CCPA professors are teaching my classes and we only have to be in class the first half of the day. The second half is for field trips and exploring the city. I have been to London before with my family, but never in an academic context. I am interested to see how different it is. Lastly, a really exciting part about the trip is that my best friend from home is also going to be in London with her college from Alabama and my boyfriend will be in Germany with SMU. Everyone's doing it! (Going abroad, that is!)

Included below is a picture of the college that our group will be staying at. It is called Regents College and it is specifically for SMU use during these programs.

By Cameron Smith
camsmith@smu.edu

Now is just about the time where school work really starts to sink in. These next two weeks are often the time of the year known as "Midterms." Every class seems to have some sort of project/test that lies within these two hallowed weeks. However, thankfully for me, there appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel.....Spring Break!!!

This year I am happy to report that I will being going to Mexico! One of my good friends has been gracious enough this year to invite me to go to Playa Del Carmen. Last year I went as well, but I am even more excited to go this year. The group i'm going with includes six of my fraternity brothers, and it promises to be a great time. I look foward to a week of lying on the beach, taking in some rays, and enjoying some quality time with some of my best friends. Considering the amount of work to complete in the next two weeks, Spring Break this year happens to be a little bit of a godsend.

One exciting thing about being in college is the freedom to pick where you will go over spring break. SMU offers a lot of programs that students can take advantage of. SMU offers a program called "Alternative Spring Break." ASB as it is commonly referred to is a chance for students to take a break from classes, yet also do something to help others. In some of the programs offered, you can work with underpriveliged childeren in Mississippi, or even build houses in Costa Rica. To go along with ASB, many student organizations plan trips like skiing in Colorado. These programs offer students a wide variety of choices. I, along with the majority of college students, am looking forward to a little break from homework.

Until Next Time!

This is a picture of me and some of my friends on SB in Mexico last year!

By Liz Dominguez
adominguez@smu.edu

It's been a super crazy weekend! This past weekend was the Big XII Conference on Black Student Government - an annual conference held at a different university every spring. Both Big XII and non-Big XII schools are invited to participate in the conference. This year, the conference was held at the University of Texas at Austin and it was definitely a perfect location. During the conference, young African American, college-aged students learn about the inner working of student government. This conference is meant to highlight the needs for young, African American students in the realm of student government. Many college campuses are implementing programs that assist college-aged minority students with leadership skills and essential resources that allow for their success in the workplace. The Big XII Conference on Black Student Government is one such opportunity that allows students to express new ideas, share with other student leaders and interact with Black professionals.

SMU provides so many opportunities for students to learn and grow. Tradtionally, the Big XII Conference is meant for "Big XII" schools - the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A & M University, the University of Kansas, Oklahoma, etc., but SMU is offered a certain number of registration entries and many SMU students attend. It's a great networking tool and a great resource for college-aged students.

Participation in the conference is a great experience and a building block toward the learning and acquistion of leaderships skills and essential tools needed to successfully run student organizations on college campuses. I can honestly say that I don't think I would have been offered this opportunity if I attended another university. I have definitely met some great people and come in contact with amazing resources. I will suggest to anyone , if given the opportunity, they should attend the Big XII Conference on Black Student Government.

By Lauren Cook
lwcook@smu.edu

I am so busy that I forgot to count down the days till Spring Break...it's 4 days away! I am so stressed out with this research project I've had to do, but I'm finishing it today and turning it into Kinkos to be printed and bound into a portfolio.

For Spring Break, I am taking one of my best friends home with me to Lakeland, FL. We will also be going to the beach, Disney World or Islands of Adventure, and meeting up with some of my friends in Sarasota who also go to SMU! It should be wonderful and relaxing. I'm praying that I won't have too much homework over the break...after all, I really want to have a break, so it would be nice to not have to worry about all this stuff to do.

Today I'm going to keep it short, so I can get back to working here in the SMU office, but I hope that Spring Break is awesome for everyone! Hopefully, this means that high school students will come visit SMU during their time off :)

Until next time, here is a picture of what I will be experiencing in four very long-awaited days.....

By Courtney Steele
csteele@smu.edu

Hey y'all! I hope everyone's semester is going well! Campus is bustling with students talking about their spring break plans and ready for a break! 48 hours away! Spring break also means the time is drawing near for all the seniors, college and high school alike, to choose where they'll be in the fall!

I went to a tiny little high school in Boulder, Colorado. My graduating class only had 42 students! I was the first student from my high school to attend SMU, but this fall, another Dawson Mustang will be joining me on campus! It's really exciting to watch how excited she is to attend SMU and remember how excited I was at that point too! I remember talking incessantly about SMU my senior year after my decision was made and word started to get around. I remember talking to this sophomore girl about how excited I was about SMU and she started to take interest in the school. Spring of my freshman year, I got to see her when she came on her campus visit. Then this spring I saw her name on our admitted students list and sent out her congratulatory email! We've talked and she's made her final decision to become a mustang! She'll be visiting again in a few weeks and I'll be able to show her more of her new home away from home!

We're all really excited to see all of you that come to visit this spring! If you come on a daily visit, you'll see some of us. If you come to Mustang Days, we'll all be there! Stop us and say hi! We're amped to show all y'all what SMU has to offer, what it has done for us and start to see who will be in the Southern Methodist University Class of 2014! Have a great few weeks y'all! We'll be back after spring break! Until then, pony up!