A New Beginning

I can't believe that my last post was my final project from last year. So much has happened since then. Last year was really difficult for me. Moving to college and learning new habits was hard enough but I wasn't able to adjust to a schedule very well since IARC took up so much time and effort. I cannot tell you how many all-nighters I pulled. I became very well acquainted with the cleaning lady who promptly came to the 1st year section at five am sharp. I loved the program and I wanted to get started with my passion right away however, I don't think I as ready for the demands of the program. Many people who had a great passion and talent for design have since left the program. It sadens me to think of all of the talent that has left. But then again, if you are really committed, responsible, and efficient you will be able to achieve your goals in this major. Last year I was so overwhelmed I gave up. I worked so hard all the way up to the end however I had gotten so behind that I don't think I could have saved myself any more than I already did. It's easy to sleep in and not go to class when you have pulled an all-nighter the night before. I was committed to the program but at some points I needed to put that aside and worry about my health. All in all I would have done a few things differently. I would have gone to ALL of my classes every day (even if I was sick) and I would have done the work as early as I could have and used my time a lot more wisely. I was able to succeed in high school with terrible time management and I graduated with a 3.8 gpa. It may not be the best but I never pulled an all nighter and always did my homework the last minute. Needless to say I don't think my high school experience prepared me for college and especially the Iarc program.
Well, I am sure if you are reading this you are wondering if I am still in the program? I am in the Iarc program this year you could say. I am taking the design history course this year and the rest of my classes are general education courses. I needed a year away from all of the stress of the program to settle down and really focus on learning good study habits. I want to be prepared for next year when I enter as a second year. Now I have time to sleep, hang out with friends, DJ for 103.1 WUAG once a week, and do all of the things I love. Its funny how much you take for granted a good night of sleep before you enter Iarc. I'm living off campus and it is SO much easier to live in an apartment. The dorms were awful and between living in the dorms and the studio I felt like I was in prison. I am so happy to have my own room, bathroom, and I can cook now! No more Caf food!
I know I belong in this program and I will fight to be recognized as a talented designer. I have tried to imagine what I would do if I didn't do design and I can't think of anything else that I would want to do with my life. So for now I am taking some time off. If any of the 1st of 2nd years need help I am always here. I have a lot more free time than any of the Iarc students right now and I know what everyone is going through, I would be happy to help. Email: mejacque@uncg.edu