My mission is to create a positive, professional, lasting impression with others in my personal and professional life. My diligent work-ethic positively affects and influences my surrounding environments. My devotion to perfection results in high-quality, long-lasting results; my optimistic outlook leads me in my daily approach, while my perseverance allows me to accomplish my goals. These values contribute to creating my interconnected personal and professional environments.
I have the ability to pay close attention to detail pertaining to writing and the editing process, demonstrate my effective speaking skills and apply my fine-tuned eye to graphic design.
I have the ability to problem solve efficiently and effectively by quickly distinguishing different circumstances and identifying and utilizing resources that are needed to resolve any situation. When analyzing, I apply a clear, moral judgment to each situation I encounter. My values of integrity, diligence, perfectionism, optimism and perseverance guide me in my decision- making. My strengths in these abilities allow me to communicate my ideas in a professional and respectful way.
I have a continual responsibility to example these abilities and persistently develop them in a professional setting; only then will I be able to maximize my potential. As I near an end to my educational career, my short term goals are to achieve additional independence, career success in a field that allows me to model my intelligence and the confidence to strive for constant improvement. In addition, my long term goal includes finding my niche, personally and professionally; in my future, I will be a flawless, witty, thoughtful, honest professional woman, mother, friend and colleague.
I vow to continue to strive in exampling myself as a part of the professional world in a way that benefits the people in and around my life as well as myself.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Proposal: For colleges in the US to re-evaluate their current curriculum and attend one of Alverno College’s Workshops.
For: Deans from other colleges
By: Ericka Seftar
Abstract
Alverno College is a four-year, liberal arts school that has been changing the lives of countless women since 1887. Their curriculum is different from that of other colleges, avoiding standardized tests and exams. The ability-based curriculum focuses on “obtaining measurable results through a unique way of learning and evaluation. The program is designed to accommodate the many different tools each student needs for effectiveness in the worlds of work, family, and civic community.” (www.alverno.edu) Alverno has been nationally accredited for their program proving that their approach is effective. It guides the personal and professional lives of their students. If all colleges in Wisconsin were to consider converting to an ability-based curriculum, more adults would be better prepared and equipped to apply the knowledge and skills they gain from the curriculum into their everyday lives.
Scope & Sequence
The proposal will provide the necessary information for colleges to preview in making an informed decision and to reevaluate the current programs being used and what the benefits an ability-based curriculum provides. Furthermore, deans from other colleges will be invited to attend a summer workshop that is designed to define the curriculum and answer any questions. These workshops are interactive and designed to provide you with a thorough outline of the ability-based process. The background will provide information about the ability-based program. The statement of the problem will address how the program is more effective than standardized testing. The benefits will cover how an ability-based curriculum has a positive effect on students and data that supports Alverno’s combines ages of students both weeday and weekend programs, retention rate and job placement percentage. An action plan will be implemented by requesting deans from other schools to attend the summer workshop at Alverno.
Background
Alverno’s curriculum is based on eight abilities that prepare students with the knowledge and capabilities that are later applied into their professional and personal environments. Students learn to display these capabilities through their work, providing evidence-based inferences. Furthermore, these abilities are evaluated through personal, peer and instructor assessments or feedback. Feedback allows students to recognize their strengths and weaknesses which provide insight to students and their instructors, allowing them to provide an analysis of their performance. This type of assessing allows students to gain a deeper insight of themselves and those around them, at the same time, developing life-long skills.
Statement of the Problem
Students begin to experience standardized testing from an early age. These tests are used to evaluate the knowledge students have gained and are often given feedback through grades; when strengths and weaknesses are not identified through peer, self and instructor evaluation, students are not given the necessary tools for life-long improvements. According to, “Is Our Students Learning,” by Kevin Carey, “Instead of testing discrete pieces of knowledge, test the higher-order critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills that all college students should learn (and which employers value most)…Instead of filling in bubbles with a No. 2 pencil, CLA test-takers write lengthy essays, analyzing documents and critiquing arguments.” Because many colleges feel little pressure in changing the current curriculum, the efforts to put forth better ways of interactive teaching and learning have been ignored. Ultimately, the students are the ones suffering. The quality of education has the potential to change but only when ability-based curriculums are implemented.
Proposed Action
I propose that each college in the United States re-evaluate the current teaching methods based on the information that was in the statement of the problem presented about standardized testing and curriculums versus an ability-based curriculum. Furthermore, after evaluating the benefits and data of an ability-based curriculum, deans from other colleges will be requested to attend one of Alverno’s workshops.
Benefits
The benefits of an ability-based curriculum have been under research for years. The dynamics and complexity of the program has been studied and tested and proven that this type of learning is learning that lasts. Alverno’s website states, “The integrated analysis of these data combined with collaborative studies in the curriculum and interpreted by educators across the college provided the basis for an educational theory of the person.” After extensive research that is still continuing, it has shown the effectiveness of the ability-based curriculum. Alverno’s website states that “educators are redefining educational frameworks, assumptions, principles, and practices.”
The result of the program is reflected through data that was collected from Marlene Neises, the Executive Director, Academic Services and Assistant to the President for Special Projects at Alverno. The following data includes the ages of students continuing onto college after high school in the semester of fall 2008. Traditional age is assumed to be 17-21. The results are higher because the numbers reflect both weekday and weekend students. In addition, provided is Alverno’s retention rate when compared to other colleges across the United States. This information includes students who start full-time their first semester of college and first-time students who have never been to college; the information pertains to the semester starting in fall 2007 and continues to fall 2008. Based on research and data it can be inferred that those who go to Alverno have to work and balance other life activities, are likely the first one to attend college in their family and aren’t transfer students. The weekday and weekend programs allow students to have flexible schedules while attending college. The career office provides information that shows the percentage of graduates that have a job six months after graduation in their chosen field of study, either their major and/or minor.
Data:
Combined ages of Alverno
Ages 17-21 (traditional age), 962 students, 42%
Ages 22 or older, 1341 students, 58%
Average weekday college student age, 23 years old
Average weekend college student age, 33 years old
Retention Rate:
72-74%
Job Placement:
309 students responded to the survey
264 students responded “YES” they had a job
=85%
This data reflects the strength Alverno has based on its high retention rate and job placement six months after graduation. The ages reflect the wide range of adults attending the college. Alverno attracts students with many different backgrounds. It’s academic curriculum supports working adults by providing a flexible, weekend college program that meets only eight times, every semester, every-other-weekend.
For: Deans from other colleges
By: Ericka Seftar
Abstract
Alverno College is a four-year, liberal arts school that has been changing the lives of countless women since 1887. Their curriculum is different from that of other colleges, avoiding standardized tests and exams. The ability-based curriculum focuses on “obtaining measurable results through a unique way of learning and evaluation. The program is designed to accommodate the many different tools each student needs for effectiveness in the worlds of work, family, and civic community.” (www.alverno.edu) Alverno has been nationally accredited for their program proving that their approach is effective. It guides the personal and professional lives of their students. If all colleges in Wisconsin were to consider converting to an ability-based curriculum, more adults would be better prepared and equipped to apply the knowledge and skills they gain from the curriculum into their everyday lives.
Scope & Sequence
The proposal will provide the necessary information for colleges to preview in making an informed decision and to reevaluate the current programs being used and what the benefits an ability-based curriculum provides. Furthermore, deans from other colleges will be invited to attend a summer workshop that is designed to define the curriculum and answer any questions. These workshops are interactive and designed to provide you with a thorough outline of the ability-based process. The background will provide information about the ability-based program. The statement of the problem will address how the program is more effective than standardized testing. The benefits will cover how an ability-based curriculum has a positive effect on students and data that supports Alverno’s combines ages of students both weeday and weekend programs, retention rate and job placement percentage. An action plan will be implemented by requesting deans from other schools to attend the summer workshop at Alverno.
Background
Alverno’s curriculum is based on eight abilities that prepare students with the knowledge and capabilities that are later applied into their professional and personal environments. Students learn to display these capabilities through their work, providing evidence-based inferences. Furthermore, these abilities are evaluated through personal, peer and instructor assessments or feedback. Feedback allows students to recognize their strengths and weaknesses which provide insight to students and their instructors, allowing them to provide an analysis of their performance. This type of assessing allows students to gain a deeper insight of themselves and those around them, at the same time, developing life-long skills.
Statement of the Problem
Students begin to experience standardized testing from an early age. These tests are used to evaluate the knowledge students have gained and are often given feedback through grades; when strengths and weaknesses are not identified through peer, self and instructor evaluation, students are not given the necessary tools for life-long improvements. According to, “Is Our Students Learning,” by Kevin Carey, “Instead of testing discrete pieces of knowledge, test the higher-order critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills that all college students should learn (and which employers value most)…Instead of filling in bubbles with a No. 2 pencil, CLA test-takers write lengthy essays, analyzing documents and critiquing arguments.” Because many colleges feel little pressure in changing the current curriculum, the efforts to put forth better ways of interactive teaching and learning have been ignored. Ultimately, the students are the ones suffering. The quality of education has the potential to change but only when ability-based curriculums are implemented.
Proposed Action
I propose that each college in the United States re-evaluate the current teaching methods based on the information that was in the statement of the problem presented about standardized testing and curriculums versus an ability-based curriculum. Furthermore, after evaluating the benefits and data of an ability-based curriculum, deans from other colleges will be requested to attend one of Alverno’s workshops.
Benefits
The benefits of an ability-based curriculum have been under research for years. The dynamics and complexity of the program has been studied and tested and proven that this type of learning is learning that lasts. Alverno’s website states, “The integrated analysis of these data combined with collaborative studies in the curriculum and interpreted by educators across the college provided the basis for an educational theory of the person.” After extensive research that is still continuing, it has shown the effectiveness of the ability-based curriculum. Alverno’s website states that “educators are redefining educational frameworks, assumptions, principles, and practices.”
The result of the program is reflected through data that was collected from Marlene Neises, the Executive Director, Academic Services and Assistant to the President for Special Projects at Alverno. The following data includes the ages of students continuing onto college after high school in the semester of fall 2008. Traditional age is assumed to be 17-21. The results are higher because the numbers reflect both weekday and weekend students. In addition, provided is Alverno’s retention rate when compared to other colleges across the United States. This information includes students who start full-time their first semester of college and first-time students who have never been to college; the information pertains to the semester starting in fall 2007 and continues to fall 2008. Based on research and data it can be inferred that those who go to Alverno have to work and balance other life activities, are likely the first one to attend college in their family and aren’t transfer students. The weekday and weekend programs allow students to have flexible schedules while attending college. The career office provides information that shows the percentage of graduates that have a job six months after graduation in their chosen field of study, either their major and/or minor.
Data:
Combined ages of Alverno
Ages 17-21 (traditional age), 962 students, 42%
Ages 22 or older, 1341 students, 58%
Average weekday college student age, 23 years old
Average weekend college student age, 33 years old
Retention Rate:
72-74%
Job Placement:
309 students responded to the survey
264 students responded “YES” they had a job
=85%
This data reflects the strength Alverno has based on its high retention rate and job placement six months after graduation. The ages reflect the wide range of adults attending the college. Alverno attracts students with many different backgrounds. It’s academic curriculum supports working adults by providing a flexible, weekend college program that meets only eight times, every semester, every-other-weekend.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Feature News Story
Even YOU Can Help Find for a Cure for Breast Cancer, by Ericka Seftar, Alverno College
Each year, more and more women are being diagnosed with the life-threatening disease of breast cancer. The Women’s Breast Center of Waukesha, located in Waukesha Memorial Hospital, has hosted an annual RiverWalk since 1997 at Frame Park, to help raise money; this year’s event is hosted on May 2, at 10am. From their website they explain, “This year’s proceeds will make it possible to advance clinical research, support high risk/genetic services, increase awareness of early detection and provide supportive care to breast cancer patients. The RiverWalk will also support the addition of leading-edge technology aimed at ever-improving early detection and treatment of breast cancer.”
Breast Cancer remains one of the top ten reasons women die each year. According to www.cdc.gov, “In 2005, 186,467 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 41,116 women died from breast cancer.” As the numbers stay steady, the need for research, development and funds intensify. The Center provides support services, additional patient programs, trials, leading-edge technology and results that exceed the national norms; these services aide in medical advancements, prevention and detection of breast cancer. When interviewed, Sarah Zubrik, a traditional RiverWalk participant, told reporters when asked how she felt that events like this affect those with breast cancer, she replied, “Overall, they are able to actually see the support provided by the community, friends and family who are all standing behind them. This gives them a positive outlook on the situation.”
So far, the RiverWalk has become a growing success. Last year, among three walks the Center for Breast Care reports, “they attracted over 8,300 participants who helped raise over $450,000 to benefit cancer research, education, supportive services and more, available right here in Waukesha County.” Reporters asked Sarah what motivates her to walk each year, she replied, “I get involved because the statistics are growing and there is no real known cause as to why some people get breast cancer; it is not only caused by genetics.” Zubrik’s life was affected by the disease when her aunt died when she was five. She recalls that time in her life and how she was affected by the disease, “Every time I saw or heard of a woman dying, I automatically assumed it was because of breast cancer.” Sadly, these situations are not only stories but reality, that’s why it is so important to join the RiverWalk this year, to help raise money to prevent other women from being affected by breast cancer like Sarah’s aunt was.
Anyone is able to join; contributors can consist of teams, individuals or families. Teams are organized with any number of participants and one team leader. The team leader is able to register their team and communicate with other team member about event details. From now until April 30, online registration is available and the fee for each individual is $18. After this time, online registration will no longer be available but people are still able to register on-site, the day of, for $20. This fee does not contribute to donations, rather, additional pledges and contributions made by people are considered donations. Also, examples like Pink Ribbon and the local Freeman also help sponsor the event. The distance once around Frame Park is 1.7 miles but this year an additional 1.1 miles have been added to the route as an option. Keeping the respect of other participants, the Park and City Ordinances, dogs are not allowed to attend. There is limited parking available with additional parking nearby at the Waukesha Courthouse. A shuttle will be provided, free of charge, from the Courthouse to the park for those who wish to use it. Participants are encouraged to sell raffle tickets to increase the income for the RiverWalk ; the purchase of these tickets is one for $1., or six for $5. There are prizes available for the teams that raise the most money for example, a Brewer’s Luxury Box.
Zubrik states the impact the RiverWalk has had on her life, “It has given me a positive impact. When I see women who are walking with pink, fluorescent hats on I know that they have dealt with breast cancer personally. When I see six women walking in a group, it is extremely motivating. Seeing all of the people who attend really shows that people are there to help find a cure.” The need for people to join is crucial. Without dedication and involvement, this event would not be possible.
For more information about the Center for Breast Cancer of Waukehsa and their annual RiverWalk, visit their website at www.waukeshariverwalk.org.
Each year, more and more women are being diagnosed with the life-threatening disease of breast cancer. The Women’s Breast Center of Waukesha, located in Waukesha Memorial Hospital, has hosted an annual RiverWalk since 1997 at Frame Park, to help raise money; this year’s event is hosted on May 2, at 10am. From their website they explain, “This year’s proceeds will make it possible to advance clinical research, support high risk/genetic services, increase awareness of early detection and provide supportive care to breast cancer patients. The RiverWalk will also support the addition of leading-edge technology aimed at ever-improving early detection and treatment of breast cancer.”
Breast Cancer remains one of the top ten reasons women die each year. According to www.cdc.gov, “In 2005, 186,467 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 41,116 women died from breast cancer.” As the numbers stay steady, the need for research, development and funds intensify. The Center provides support services, additional patient programs, trials, leading-edge technology and results that exceed the national norms; these services aide in medical advancements, prevention and detection of breast cancer. When interviewed, Sarah Zubrik, a traditional RiverWalk participant, told reporters when asked how she felt that events like this affect those with breast cancer, she replied, “Overall, they are able to actually see the support provided by the community, friends and family who are all standing behind them. This gives them a positive outlook on the situation.”
So far, the RiverWalk has become a growing success. Last year, among three walks the Center for Breast Care reports, “they attracted over 8,300 participants who helped raise over $450,000 to benefit cancer research, education, supportive services and more, available right here in Waukesha County.” Reporters asked Sarah what motivates her to walk each year, she replied, “I get involved because the statistics are growing and there is no real known cause as to why some people get breast cancer; it is not only caused by genetics.” Zubrik’s life was affected by the disease when her aunt died when she was five. She recalls that time in her life and how she was affected by the disease, “Every time I saw or heard of a woman dying, I automatically assumed it was because of breast cancer.” Sadly, these situations are not only stories but reality, that’s why it is so important to join the RiverWalk this year, to help raise money to prevent other women from being affected by breast cancer like Sarah’s aunt was.
Anyone is able to join; contributors can consist of teams, individuals or families. Teams are organized with any number of participants and one team leader. The team leader is able to register their team and communicate with other team member about event details. From now until April 30, online registration is available and the fee for each individual is $18. After this time, online registration will no longer be available but people are still able to register on-site, the day of, for $20. This fee does not contribute to donations, rather, additional pledges and contributions made by people are considered donations. Also, examples like Pink Ribbon and the local Freeman also help sponsor the event. The distance once around Frame Park is 1.7 miles but this year an additional 1.1 miles have been added to the route as an option. Keeping the respect of other participants, the Park and City Ordinances, dogs are not allowed to attend. There is limited parking available with additional parking nearby at the Waukesha Courthouse. A shuttle will be provided, free of charge, from the Courthouse to the park for those who wish to use it. Participants are encouraged to sell raffle tickets to increase the income for the RiverWalk ; the purchase of these tickets is one for $1., or six for $5. There are prizes available for the teams that raise the most money for example, a Brewer’s Luxury Box.
Zubrik states the impact the RiverWalk has had on her life, “It has given me a positive impact. When I see women who are walking with pink, fluorescent hats on I know that they have dealt with breast cancer personally. When I see six women walking in a group, it is extremely motivating. Seeing all of the people who attend really shows that people are there to help find a cure.” The need for people to join is crucial. Without dedication and involvement, this event would not be possible.
For more information about the Center for Breast Cancer of Waukehsa and their annual RiverWalk, visit their website at www.waukeshariverwalk.org.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Hard News Story
Hard News Story 2
Waukesha County News
Alcohol Related Accident: Adams Friendship, WI
Successful Chiropractor Bob VanRizzle, of Waukesha, WI, lost control of his 2005 Chevy Suburban, slamming it into a tree, in Adams Friendship, WI, March 6, 2009, at 1:30am.
Friends of VanRizzle stated they had spent hours at Katz Bar on County X. Shortly after they left the bar, he missed a turn into a driveway off of Highway DD, striking a tree. VanRizzle was said to be heading back to a friend’s cabin that he was staying at for the weekend.
In the vehicle, he was carrying one passenger, John Doe. After the truck collided into the tree, VanRizzle backed the vehicle up and proceeded to park, ending in the volleyball court between the house and the garage, ultimately getting the vehicle stuck. Doe was finally able to exit the vehicle, exclaiming in a state of shock, “Get me out of this thing right now!!” Shortly after that, VanRizzle also exited the vehicle. One of the witnesses assisted in getting the vehicle out and to the proper parking location.
A number of witnesses were there to tell their versions of the story. No one was said to be hurt. Also indicated by witnesses, icy conditions and alcohol were said to be factors in the incident. Police were not called to the scene and no formal charges have been brought upon the driver. Both victims in the vehicle are said to be doing fine and have suffered no injuries.
Waukesha County News
Alcohol Related Accident: Adams Friendship, WI
Successful Chiropractor Bob VanRizzle, of Waukesha, WI, lost control of his 2005 Chevy Suburban, slamming it into a tree, in Adams Friendship, WI, March 6, 2009, at 1:30am.
Friends of VanRizzle stated they had spent hours at Katz Bar on County X. Shortly after they left the bar, he missed a turn into a driveway off of Highway DD, striking a tree. VanRizzle was said to be heading back to a friend’s cabin that he was staying at for the weekend.
In the vehicle, he was carrying one passenger, John Doe. After the truck collided into the tree, VanRizzle backed the vehicle up and proceeded to park, ending in the volleyball court between the house and the garage, ultimately getting the vehicle stuck. Doe was finally able to exit the vehicle, exclaiming in a state of shock, “Get me out of this thing right now!!” Shortly after that, VanRizzle also exited the vehicle. One of the witnesses assisted in getting the vehicle out and to the proper parking location.
A number of witnesses were there to tell their versions of the story. No one was said to be hurt. Also indicated by witnesses, icy conditions and alcohol were said to be factors in the incident. Police were not called to the scene and no formal charges have been brought upon the driver. Both victims in the vehicle are said to be doing fine and have suffered no injuries.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Professional Identity Not Found
Lately, I've found myself struggling with the fact that I STILL do not know what I want for a career. When I think about all of the thinks I like to do, none of them strike me in a way where I can picture myself doing that one thing forever. Although, I do have an action plan. That plan, effective this up-coming summer, is to put together a thorough, mind-blowing, professional portfolio and resume. I'm hoping this is the key in my next steps toward a career and a relief from stress.
Right now I feel stuck. I feel like I'm not where I should be in life. I want to be married, have a house, a career, children...much more than I have right now. I guess you could say I'm a little disappointed in myself. One would probably think that those kinds of goals should be incentive enough to hurry up and at least finish school. With me, that's the opposite. I'm getting more and more discouraged and impatient with everything around me BECAUSE I feel trapped. I feel I'm at a standstill and I NEED things to progress in the way I have planned. I guess that sounds kind of selfish in a way but that's not the way I've intended it to be.
I'm pretty sure these feelings of frustration stem from my biological clock. For goodness sakes, I'm not getting any younger!!!!!
Right now I feel stuck. I feel like I'm not where I should be in life. I want to be married, have a house, a career, children...much more than I have right now. I guess you could say I'm a little disappointed in myself. One would probably think that those kinds of goals should be incentive enough to hurry up and at least finish school. With me, that's the opposite. I'm getting more and more discouraged and impatient with everything around me BECAUSE I feel trapped. I feel I'm at a standstill and I NEED things to progress in the way I have planned. I guess that sounds kind of selfish in a way but that's not the way I've intended it to be.
I'm pretty sure these feelings of frustration stem from my biological clock. For goodness sakes, I'm not getting any younger!!!!!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Advertising
Our first assignment, advertising. I've always been on the consumer side of marketing, but now the tables have turned. I will now develope enticing ways for consumers to purchase a product of my choosing through written advertisments for three different companies. Becoming the seller has given me a different perspective about advertising; tone and word choice impact the consumer and could possibly make or break the sale. Taking into consideration the intended audience is crucial. Some products are less expensive than others, for example a professional suit from Sears versus the same item at Nordstrom therefore you can infer that your audiences will vary. This advertising assignment might just be a true test as to what kind of consumer and audience member I am, Sears or Nordstrom.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Professional Communication
I'm a Professional Communication major with a minor in Business Management; at this point in my academic career, I'm unsure which direction I'm headed in specifically, but I have recognized what some of my interests are. I strongly enjoy being exposed to new ideas and concepts regarding Professional Communication both in my personal life as well as my academic and professional lives. More specifically, I've discovered a recent interest in a general sematics course I took at Alverno College which exposed me to the ideas of how people perceive the world around them, how ideas and thoughts are interpreted and how this differentiates from the ideas of others and what we do personally to effectively interpretate the ideas. I find this communication concept very interesting and would like to know anything I can about it; your thoughts are welcome.
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