2nd Presentation: BiH's History, Social & Economic Inplications of 90s War, Government, Placement & Highlights from Alumni trips (06)

Bosnia Herzegovina Pp #2

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Last week I presented for the second time. I focused on the history of BiH (including the war in 1992-5), the implications of the Bosnian war and the Omladinsky Centar that was built post-war in an effort to create harmony via the youth. I also included some pictures of Gornji-Vakuf, surrounding cities in BiH & cities in Croatia which Alumni visited on their time off during their placements. Unlike the first presentation, my professor timed us and cut us off at the 10 minute mark. Two years ago when I was in "Speech Communication" I would have panicked when seeing the "2 min" or "20 second" sign; however, surprisingly enough I found myself rolling with the punches, summing up my key points and finish in the nick of time. (Mind you I had practiced my presentation at least 6 times before presenting to the class and had picked up some tricks from Matt's presentation, which I will explain below.)
It was interesting to see how my peers reacted under pressure. Some people where able to adapt to the situation while others struggled. I also loved analyzing my peer's PowerPoint slides and recall my IBT high school years when we learned about creating an effective slide, i.e., it should have X amount of words per slide, you should expand on the points in your verbal presentation and the slides need to be relevant (not common knowledge). However, I learned a new technique from Matt's presentation, which I then emulated in mine.
Since we had time restrictions, he put a little more than the average amount of information on his slides. He gave the audience a disclaimer that he would not have time to go over all the points. Thus, if they felt inclined they could read the slide for more thorough information. If not, they could listen while he verbally communicating the key points. This became increasingly useful when Joanne flashed the "2 minute" sign in front of me. Thanks Matt. :D

~G.

Hosting my 1st Solo Fundraiser: What a Success!

I don't even know where to begin...

After months of preparation, weekly visits home to get donated auction/door prize items and promote my event, the day had finally arrived, and I still had SO much to do! I had to get last minute auction prizes, organize the auction prizes and my presentation, get ready, find out when my friend, Jen, was coming to help out, greet early guests, try to figure out the projector for my presentation and serve customers at the bar. It was a very stressful beginning. I signed with relief when I saw Jen come in the doors. Right away I put her to work (don't worry she was getting a free meal/entertainment/ "life lesson from the regulars" out of it). She did a great job helping set up the auction and sell the products; thanks Jen. She also amused my regular customers. My mom was also a TREMENDOUS help. She blew my expectations out of the park! She did everything from arguing to get a float with a local Superstore manager, to helping manage the auction, from bussing table to helping me in the bar. Us Sesek ladies definitely have hard work ethics! I so proud of you mom!! (Jen and Mom: you two ladies were definitely super stars!)

For me, the night went so quickly. I was all over the place. I was working the bar, serving and bussing the band and their table, presenting, mingling with my formal customers/friends, etc. I definitely kept busy.

Those in my BB class know that I like to be ultra prepared for my presentations. Thus, when I was left "winging it", I was a bit nervous. It went over alright but do to nerves I said "um" quite a bit and left out some interesting facts. What can I say, I'm not the greatest impromptu speaker, however, I think I did alright considering I didn't have a script at all.

After my presentation I go some exciting news! My former customer and friend, John D., who works with the Mayor of Georgetown, presented an award on behalf of the Mayor wishing me all the best on my journey to BiH. Afterwards he added that they have something waiting for me when I return. "Something waiting for me when I return"?? My curiosity is running wild with that comment. What could it be? I guess I'll have to practice being patient.

The rest of the night was a blast. The dinner was done, my grandma and her boyfriend were dancing up a storm while the band was playing. I even danced with some on my old customers and got to converse with my favourite customers and co-worker while cleaning up.

The silent auction went well. I sold almost all of the items. I am SO grateful for the outpour of support I have received from local businesses, and friends. The items were amazing! I made an outstanding amount during my fundraising event, and in the end it was great to see family and friends. All in all it was a huge success. Moreover, I am THRILLED to announce that the fundraiser, along with my uncle's generous contribution, has helped me complete the fundraising portion of my program. All $2000 has been raised!!! :D

Thank you to all who helped make the event successful, and thank you to everyone who came out to support me.

~G.

Ppp For Fundraiser

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The lost document... faith and perseverance

"all the pain and fear... maybe going through that is what keeps us going forward"
- Grey's Anatomy 5.19

Recently I lost something very important to me; a crucial document that could alter my path in life. I was devastated. Since then I have had anxiety on a regular basis, thinking of the "what ifs" and worrying about the effect it would have on my dreams, and future in general.

Looking back I think that it has helped me in many ways. It has helped remind me of its importance and necessity. It has also helped me realise my core group of supporters and rocks. Through this experience I have leaned on a few friends and family members, of whom I thank. I have also gained friendships and respect for others. My professor and Intercordia superiors have been very helpful and reassuring, always telling me to "have faith". Although I was very greatful that they were so supportive, I just couldn't stay positive. That was until I confided in my grandmother, my Baka.

One day I called her fairly upset and she immediately put me at ease. She didn't make excuses for me, but in a non condescending way she reminded me that I needed to be more careful. Then she added that accidents happen and that I NEED to learn from this mistake. She also told me an enlightening story about her grandmother who lost a very important key. Her grandmother was distraught and was panicking. My baka simply told her to pray to St. Anthony and eventually he would help open their eyes within three days. After three days my baka went outside looking for the key and sure enough St. Anthony helped her find it. She also recalled a time when she had lost some important documents. Again she immediately started praying to St. Anthony. Within the day, my uncle found the documents.

At the end of my fundraising event, while embracing me before leaving, my baka whispered, "did you find it?" to which I replied, "no" :( Many would lose faith but not my baka. She said that she would continue to pray.

Today I became anxious and unable to focus like usual. I checked my e-mail; I had received an e-mail I was dreading from my professor regarding my document. Immediately I called my baka and deda. Like always, they remained calm and helped me keep focused. My deda, along with my dear friend Holly an hour before, had convinced me that I would need to take action and speak with my parents. They made me realise that I could not put it off any longer; I would have to confide in them.

The phone call to my parents turned out much better than I anticipated. Like usual, my dad was calm and collected, something he's great at when ever I seem to be nervous or worried about something. He gave me great advice and helped me formulate a game plan.

Consequently, after 2-3 weeks, my anxiety over the whole situation is finally decreasing. I am less worried and more focused.

Looking back, my baka was right. I may not have found my documents within 3-4 days but I my eyes were opened. I was able to get up to courage to speak to all the core people I needed to speak with to get the ball rolling.

One thing is for sure, this process has definitely made me value Beyond Borders significantly more. It has made me appreciate and respect Joanne, Lisa and Mary Bee to a high degree. It has also allowed me to bond with my family and friends, and made me cognitive of my goals in life. I now know for complete certainty that I want to get an internship with a NGO/NPO before attending teacher's college and I need to make sure that I do everything in my power to ensure that that dream is accomplished. I need to care less about frivolous things and more about my goals. This pain and fear of losing another dream has definitely pushed me towards my dreams.

Now I just need to have faith that my dreams are meant to be. Faith and perseverance, those two key words are what I need to have.

Volunteer Award!

Last Monday I had a nice and unexpected surprise waiting for me in the grade 2 portable that the local elementary school I volunteer at biweekly. I had an award and invitation to an event honouring "outstanding volunteers".

It's crazy to think that I received an award for doing something that I LOVE SO much. Mondays and Wednesdays when I am able to volunteer at Keatsway are BY FAR the highlights of my week. A smile always formulates with I go to my placement. I adore the grade 2 students. Aspiring teachers will understand the joy I get out of a child finally understanding a concept or improving in their academic and or behavioural skills. Like my dear friends and soon to be teachers, I also love being called by my last name, "Ms. George".

The other week I was walking to school and I could hear a child tell his mother, "I think I know that girl." The mother replying, "Keep walking!" The child said, "I do know that lady, it's Ms. George, HI MS. GEORGE!!!” To this I responded, "Hi!" while waving from across the street. In the distance I could hear the child saying in a proud voice, "I told you I knew her!" A smile plastered onto my face for the rest of my journey to campus.

I have always wanted to be a teacher. When I was young I used to give my Baka English lessons, and from elementary school to middle school I would always play "teacher" with my best friend, Ashley. Since then I have mentored and tutored numerous children and have been a T.A./ teacher at my uncle's educational camps for 5years. With that said, it is great to be able to volunteering in a classroom all year long.

Moreover, I will forever be grateful that my mentor, Jason, asked me to assist in his class. He is one of the best mentors I have ever worked with (and I've worked with a lot). I learn something new almost every day I volunteer. He has taught me numerous, vital teaching skills such as being completely honest with the students, involving the parents in fun, interactive learning activities, having honest and open communication with the parents, incorporating movies and personal knowledge on topics that the students learn, and to stick up for yourself when it comes to the school politics and your beliefs. Unlike many teachers, from the beginning he has allowed me to take a major role in the classroom. I regularly work one-on-one with the students, facilitating activities that test their cognitive knowledge. I have also been able to write a lesson plan and rubric, and run an art activity that evaluated the students' knowledge on the water cycle. Moreover, he has taught me a huge, valuable lesson.

Since joining BB, I became interested in NGOs/NPOs. For months I have been debating whether to continue taking steps towards applying for teacher's college next fall or do a Masters/work for an NGO beforehand before teaching.

After observing Jason’s lessons and conversing about politics, development issues, and education after class, I have realised that his additional knowledge from person experience, running a company, owning a farm, and a desire to continuously expand his knowledge, has given him a competitive advantage over teachers who directly enter the school board after graduating from post secondary education and teacher's college.

I will never forget when one of the grade 2's fathers expressed his gratitude towards Jason. He said that his children learned more in his class than from any other teacher because he teaches the students more than what is in the textbook. For instance, he uses personal anecdotes, activities, and plays to help engage the kids. That afternoon I decided that I wanted to follow suit. I want to be able to make a large impact on children's lives.

Thus, I believe that the Beyond Borders experience and future internships with NGOs/NPOs will diversify my knowledge and understanding of the multi facet society people live in. I hope my worldly experiences will help enhance my future students' educational experience.

Strength?

Within the past two days, two people have called me strong. This is very ironic to me because I don't feel strong at all. Sure I put on a happy face and try not to wear my heart on my sleeve, but I don't feel like enduring heartache and hardships makes me a strong person. I know that I have grown and have gain self discovery over the past little while, but haven't we all in our own way? I am glad to be able to share my stories, my struggles, and my attempts to overcome my hurdles. But I think that we are all here to become agents to someone or some people. I know that during my darkest moments, I needed the guidance and motivation of others. I feel honored to be able to share my thoughts and experiences with others and to receive such welcoming and positive feedback. However, I don't feel like "strength" can really discribe an emotion person that I am. With that said, I would like to thank Holly, John, Jessica, and Dan. Moreover, I feel like these seminars and the life stories always make me feel closer to the group and are a HUGE asset to the program.

Intercordia Seminar # 3 with King's!!! :D

Today we had our Intercordia Canada seminar in Kitch.. It was bittersweet. I had been excited to see the King's students for weeks. It was definitely nice to see Dan, Brit, and Chelsea again. During the seminar a L'Arche resident, Bill, came in to speak about his life. He made us laugh with his cute jokes, infectious laughter, and great stories. Lisa's husband helped Bill explain his life. We also learned a new, fun spin off version of volleyball game I used to play during lunch in high school. We talked about appropriate times to contact IPP/ICC. Chelsea and I found out from Lisa that we will be getting VERY basic language training when we first arrive in BiH. Specific details about our travel plans and required documentations were also presented to us.

Two people I lived with in first year (Wanda and Kevin) spoke during the seminar about their experiences in BiH and Ukraine in 2007. It was an AMAZING opportunity to pick Wanda's brain (BiH Alumni). For instance, I found out that only 4% of the land in BiH has landmines, which was a tad comforting. I also found out that the Croatian side has received more financial aid to rebuild their side after the war. Wanda also explained the differences between N.American lifestyles and Bosnian/Croatian lifestyles. She explained that people are much more relaxed in BiH. Since a lot of people do not work (the employed work in cafes or in construction) their days are very leisurely. She told us to be prepare to be bored. I have heard this comment a lot from other Alumni and have worried; I have been brought up in a family that thrives on being busy. The funny thing is that last year my second cousins from Croatia came to visit us in Canada. They were foreigners like I will be this summer. Their lifestyle was very similar to what the Alumni had explained; they took their time getting ready, making sure that they look very presentable. They definitely suffered from culture shock when visiting us in Canada. Most of the days they spend here were jammed packed with places to go and people to see. My poor extended family was exhausted half the time and probably needed another holiday once they returned to Croatia. It was interesting to hear that my 2nd cousins aren't the only ones with an opposing lifestyle. It's weird to think that I will have to adjust to their lifestyle like they had to adjust to ours. (I like to plan out my days and make them as eventful as possible, although I also like having my down time. It will be interesting to see how I will react to on-the-fly programming, potentially having numerous uneventful days in a row, and reintegrate back into a time crunching life in Canada.)

It was also interesting to hear that the language barrier in host countries caused people to interact with each other in a more simplistic way. Instead of talking about TV and movies, Alumni would play something with the indigenous people. The bonds were different. I've always wanted to immerse myself head-first into a new culture/foreigh language. To have to learn the basics. I know that it will be extremely frustrating at times because I will feel excluded from a lot of conversations. At the same time I'm excited at the prospect of learning the language and being about to speak to my grandparents when I come back to Canada, even if it's only a few phrases. I know that my Baka and Deda will be thrilled too!

Speaking one-on-one with Wanda and viewing her photos with Chelsea was SO useful. I found out that the U.S. volunteers bring an abundant amount of arts & craft supplies; one picture showed the kids hitting each other (in a playful way) with blow-up bowling pins that were as big as they are. I'm very excited to help facilitate their programs. Since discovering that we will be teaching English I have wondered about the materials I should bring. I had been debating whether to buy English work books (i.e., the ones found in Costco). Wanda gave us some really helpful advice: we should bring phrase books and teach them English phrases because it will be more useful than learning random words. I never thought of that. It was great insight.

Since volunteering at Speak English Cafe, I have wondered if Bosnia will have a similar program (AKA informal programs to improve our comprehension of the Bosnian language by facilitating activities that allow us to practice our Bosnian with patient people in the host country). Wanda explained that some of the permanent staff at the centre would love it if we took the initiative to start a similar program to SEC. This sparked some excitement in me. I would LOVE to start something up. We'll see. *Crossing Fingers!*
Moreover, I found out more about the relationships Bosnians and Croatians have. It was very informative and helped put me at easy. :D

One thing that was difficult was sharing my life story with most of the BB students and the King's students. I showed John my unedited (LONG) version. He definitely put me at ease by thanking me for sharing my story with him and letting me know that it would be a great thing to share with the group to give people more insight on where I come from and give a different perspective on my life. Jessica V. was very sweet by coming over to sit near me afterwards to show her support. Thank you Jess for the thought of a hug: D Dan was also very kind afterwards. Although it was very hard sharing my life story and I felt a bit uncomfortable with people afterwards, it was good to express myself without the worry of being judged. It was nice to finally show that there's more to me than what lies on the surface. I LOVE hearing other people's stories. I felt so privileged to be trusted with their personal struggles and achievements. It helps me understand their character and what got them to the place they are now at in their lives.

Moreover, I appreciated the talk I had with Lisa and MaryB. They helped put me at ease about an issue I was having so thank you to them.
Lastly, it was great hanging out with Chelsea.

Although logistics are putting a lot of stress on me, I am becoming excited at the prospect that in less than 2 months this opportunity of a lifetime will begin! My countdown to the airport party with Chels, Ryan and Jillian will commence very soon! :D

Cloud Nine! I'm in the paper!!!!

After A LOT of work, I got my story into the local paper!! I'm ecstatic!!! I hope that this will create some buzz and more people will buy tickets to my event!

*Crossing Fingers*

Here's the article: http://www.independentfreepress.com/news/article/66657