Playing God.

In FIG class we had the chance to "play God," for lack of a better term. We were required, as a class to eliminate nine people and save six. Each persons scenario seemed as though they had a fault. We are required to answer some questions. Let us, how you say, get started:

1. The discussion made me feel very opinionated and careful of who we were going to save to re-build civilization. The discussion did not make me feel uncomfortable and I was angry with the fact that we eliminated Pope Benedict XVI.

2. In this discussion I learned that our class is very opinionated and they will stand behind what they say, no matter what.

3. I did not agree with the fact that we eliminated the Pope, solely because he's the Pope. I understand that he's old, but you have to have a foundation of faith. It does make sense to me that the class chose to eliminate him because there were better options.

4. Ethics, simply ethics.

J-School Banquet.

When I went to the J-School Banquet yesterday, I went to James Balog's seminar. He was rather interesting and a learned so much. I am a HUGE fan of photography, (sadly, I wish I was a photographer), and when he showed his portfolio, I was blown away. James Balog is an American photographer whose work revolves around the relationships between humans and nature.

At his seminar, he spoke highly about his work with glaciers. He seems to be the epitome of an "environmentalist," without all of the extremes. I think that I really enjoyed his seminar because of how passionate he was about his career and the natures that surround him. He really does want to make the world a better place to live, one snap at a time.

James Balog is a very prestigious award winner. His awards include: Lecia Medal of Excellence, First Prize for Nature Photography in the World Press Photo Contest, First Prize for Science Photography in the World Press Photo Contest, 2007 Rowell Award for the Art of Adventure, NANPA Outstanding Photographer of the Year (2008), and the 16th Annual Heinz Award (with special focus on global change).

J-School.

As a journalism major, (so far), the main source that I plan on using in the journalism school would have to be the broadcasting room. I would use it for the equipment, the resources, and for the aspect of knowledge and how to better myself and my career in the art of broadcasting journalism. I can only remember one thing from the tour and that is this: the auditorium on the first floor is 840, but on your schedule, if you have a class there, or if you have to go and listen to a speaker, the flyer and schedule will say 841. Don't worry, they are the same place.

M-I-Z

Hey there world. We haven't talked in a while. A lot, and I mean a shit ton of shit has happened. But, we'll save that for another entry. Now, I'm on a mission. A mission to share with the world and my FIG leader my thoughts on my first week of Mizzou and all of the fall welcome events. Let me start by saying...Holy crow. College is amazing. There is something so breathtaking, so exhilarating knowing that I am up here alone. No rules. No parents. No drama. Just me. Just me and my decisions. Some good, some bad. Some "what the hell was I thinking," but, each of them are so beautiful.

I have met so many wonderful people that mean the world and more to me. It's crazy to think that I have only known these people for a week and I already never want to lose them. Now, to get to the real point of this "madness." Mizzou. One word, like Madonna. Mizzou. It rolls off your tongue. There are so many words that could describe the days that I have spent here but, to sum it all up, I can pick three simple words. Heart-warming. Stomach hurting laughter. Unforgettable.

Little Things

Nothing in my life right now screams "exciting." The little things are what always make me happiest. That's all I have for today...lame, I know.

Bottomless Pit

Lyric of the Day is awarded to Tom Felton, yes, the Tom Felton. The pale haired boy with the nasty snarl who plays Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter installments. Today, the lyric reads: "I will kiss you on the lips, but only if that's alright with you." As I was listening to a mix on my way to work at 5:30 this morning, this song played and as I sang these lyrics at the top of my lungs as a form of a wake-up call, I thought about this particular set of words.

These remind me of a simpler time, a time that I, nor any of us may be familiar with. The time of chivalry and passion. A time when a boy gave you his class ring or his letterman's jacket meant you were "going steady." A time when kids our age felt invincible. Nowadays, it seems as though we all share fear; whether it be a fear knowing that it's wrong or the fear of getting caught. I would love to whisk away to the "simpler" times to where you were asked permission for the smallest things..."I'll kiss you on the lips, but only if that's alright with you.

Happy dreams.

Hello world. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Elyse. Simple as that. I am a recent graduate of the Class of 2010 and an incoming member to the Mizzou Class of 2014. There are many things that come to mind when I think of the word "blog." But right now, I'm feeling the word "inspired" is the correct adjective for this evening. I am just a girl with hopes and dreams as high as the next person. I long to get out of this small town and fufill my wildest imagination. For the last years of my teenage wonder, I was on a strict mental and social schedule at both home and school. Now, as I journey out to the big pond, I find myself asking the same questions over and over again: "What do I want my schedule to be," "How on earth am I going to do my laundry," and "Who the hell do I want to be?"

As of right now, I am Elyse. The girl who was involved in everything that came shooting down the pike, the girl who would do anything to make you smile, and the girl who would do anything for a laugh :D. As I sit here, I remember the times I had in high school...some happy, some sad, some I never want to forget, and some I wish I could. But, I realize that every single one of these moments, whether they be embarrassing or one of the happiest minutes of my life (so far), they have made me into the person that writes this blog.

Everyday, to make this blog more interesting, there will be an inspiring song lyric or title. Today you will witness a piece written by a man who finds lyrics so pure, I wish I could use them in conversation...the lead singer of "Dashboard Confessional..." Chris Carrabba. The lyrics are as follows: If you're running from your secrets, I will make you take them with you. I am ready, I can take it, you don't have to carry them alone.

We all have secrets. We are just looking for the right person to share them with.