Petrone's Final Video

NYC Singer

Petrone's Final Assessment

I can remember throughout my senior year, the stress that I felt. The overwhelming fear of “will I get into college?” And, here I am, a freshman at Southern Connecticut State University finishing up my first semester. Entering college, I was of course anxious. I thought would I be able to keep up with the workload, and be able to receive good grades in that respect. I feared would not only transitioning to a new environment, but a completely different state be hard? High school is a completely different from college. In college, you are on your own. You have responsibility unlike ever before. You are suddenly responsible for all your actions, whether it be academically, or personally. Everything is now on you, and up to you. Your grades reflect the amount of effort you put in, and what you’ll get out of the given course. Transitioning from high school to college not only enables one to prioritize and manage their time, but also requires one gain a new set of skills, and know-how. For myself personally, I gained varying college skills. One skill was simply doing the wash. Back at home I would dry, fold, and sometimes iron (if needed) all the clothes but, now I had to learn how to wash them and what to detergent(s) to use! Laundry was certainly not the most important skill I gained though. A vital skill I acquired was learning how to better manage my time in regards to my college work. Based upon my schedule, I could plan when to do what; for example, what time to study, do homework, or do something personal for myself. College also allows one to gain a new set of knowledge in the matter how of one thinks. In high school, teachers would ask you a question, and you’d simply answer back. But, in college, professors challenge you, and your mind. They ask for you to go outside your comfort zone, and think outside the box, a skill that can open your mind to many new ideas, insights, and perspectives.

The transition one experiences from high school into college affects each individual differently. It can change a person. I changed into someone who now is more mature, and organized; One who is able to take both sides of a story, and see both perspectives, analyze them, and formulate my own opinion.  I have changed into someone who use to prefer the simple things in life, to someone who not only prefers them, but values them a lot more. These simple little aspects of life can get lost when one enters into college. But, it is important to never lose sight of what you want for yourself, and who you want to be. I entered college wanting learn more about everything, like my major and my new community here at Southern Connecticut. I wanted to accomplish having a 3.5 or better, and have. I have learned and accomplished my goals. I would advise anyone who is transitioning from high school into college to write down their goals, like I did. Stay true to them, and try to never put them on the back burner. I would advise individuals to not be afraid to be themselves, to not be afraid to put themselves out there, and to always stay true to who they are. It is up to you to bring the success you do so seek.

2 Petrone Posts in 1

"Be not afraid of greatness; some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them."

     As my first semester of college wraps up, I am extremely proud of myself. I can't help but feel like I worked to my full potential. My goal was to maintain a 3.5 or better, and I have. I have all A's in my classes, and one B. And, that's with counting in that I took a full schedule with the maximum amount of credits allowed. I wanted to not only make myself proud, but as well as my family, and I believe I have. I've been able to achieve what I set out to achieve for myself back from day 1. I feel as if I haven't let myself down at all. I've made friends with a variety of different people, and have truly put myself out there. I've learned much about time management, and know that I have used my time sufficiently and successfully. The only weakness I think I've faced was not sticking up for myself in particular situations. However, with each experience that I have encounter this semester, I've learned and have grown from. I've said it once, and I'll say it again. College is a growing experience, and I believe I've grown a great amount. My family has even told me that they see a huge difference in who I am. They say though I'm still the same person, something's different about me; a positive difference. I think they are just seeing a new more mature   me. I could not be more proud of myself. I'm so happy that I am doing so well in all my classes, and I've proven to myself that though I've taken on a full, heavy load, that I am able to endure and come out prevailing, and accomplishing all that it is I want. I can only hope, and believe in myself, that my next semester, and years to come in college will be just as successful and great as my first one has been.

Next semester: personally, socially, and academically. For next semester, I want academically achieve what I have much like this semester. I still want to maintain a GPA of 3.5 of better (this could also be related personally, too, as one of my goals.) I want to also academically be able to make myself and family proud of my grades. I personally want to maintain the happiness I so do have right now. I have never been more happy in my life. Every person in my life that I hold close to me have been so wonderful and supportive this semester, and I would like to have that same factor for next semester, and semesters to come. I also personally want to make sure I do not gain freshmen 15. Silly, I know, but I am so terrified of gaining the dreaded 15. I've actually lost weight as I've been here. I'm at my thinnest! My family jokes with me and says I'm the only in the family that went away to college, and came back thinner. I responded with a "try eating at Conn Hall." Enough said! Socially for next semester, I want to meet more people. I know that people come in and out of our lives for a reason, and I know there are still many, many more people I am to meet my freshmen year. I socially want to be involved in some sort of music ensemble. Even though I have to for my major, I want to regardless. I miss being able to sing in a choir, and would love to be able to join in on one of the university choirs. I miss performing, too. So I would love to be able to be in an ensemble again. I know that will be another thing to add to my already full schedule, and work load, but I know I'll be able to do it, much because I know how to manage my time. I believe I can personally, socially, and academically achieve all I want for next semester if I keep managing my time successfully as I am now. I can't believe I am finishing my first semester already! Time has flown by!

Lurning Groops

         For my inq, I was placed into learning groups, along with the rest of my class. I like everyone in my class, so I really didn't mind being assigned into groups with selected few. The first group I was put in I had really enjoyed, except for one huge detail; they were all commuter students. Because of this, it was very hard to meet up with each other. Also, our schedules differed greatly from one another, too. I eventually got to work with another group who all lived on campus, and actually lived in my dorm! Working them was great. Anytime one of us needed help with something, we all just had to take a quick down the hall or staircase. It was extremely convenient to be able to go to your group and ask their opinions or help with something. When I did my midterm project, I got show my learning group first and get their feedback first. This allowed for me to be able to get their view on my work and enabled me to see if I needed to edit anything. Sometimes having another set of eyes look at your own work allows for one to discover new things about their piece. Maybe a grammatical error, or a new insight. I had this happen with a post I wrote about love for my boyfriend. Unknowingly I wrote a lot of it from a musician's perspective. I didn't mean to, but being a musician, it came like second nature unbeknownst to me. I'll miss having that luxury of having a learning group to view my work first, but because we all lived in the same hall, maybe I'll be able to still go to them to get their feedback first, and get a fresh set of eyes.

Petrone: Past Present & Future

"I Know Where I've Been, And I Know Where I Want To Go"

What do you want ideally for yourself after college? Money, a job, your own place? Of course, everyone wants these things. I mean, when you're young, everyone wants to be rich, but ideally after college these are the real, true things that you desire. And, though I do want these things, they are not what I ideally want. So what do I want? I want the simple things; the things I know I can truly have, is what I want.  I want happiness among myself, family, and friends. I want the people that I hold close to me to be healthy, and safe. And, I still want to be surrounded by the people who I love, and that love me in return; my family, friends, and boyfriend. These are the people that I know will help my on my journey through college, and life. I never want to be without them, but I know that no matter where I go, and arrive at in life, I will carry their hearts. I carry their hearts in mine, and anywhere I go, they will go. This will bring me life's successes. It's knowing where I've been, and knowing where I want to go. Let the past be a reminder of what once was, the present be able to show you what is, and the future guide you to what will be. This is what I ideally want for myself after college. All the money, and sucesss in the world will never be able to buy or compare to the people that I have in my life, and in my heart. They are my past, present, and future.

Petrone Full!

"Life is uncertain.  Eat dessert first".  

-Ernestine Ulmer

So here I sit on a Saturday night, just got back from my boyfriends' house, and I am full to the brim. I don't think I have consumed this much food in months. Since I've gotten to school, my eating habits have changed drastically; I have become much more aware of what I put in my mouth (in fear of gaining freshmen 15) and have found that I eat a lot less. I believe this in turn has made me become fuller faster, and thus has led me to overstuffed. I feel like since Thanksgiving, I have just been nonstop eating...eating turkey and stuffing and Thanksgiving leftovers, along with goodbye dinners, and homemade breakfasts. How I'm going to miss all this food...but I know I will most definitely miss dessert. God how I love sweets! I adore pie and italian cookies fresh from the bakery, coupled with a nice cup of hot brewed coffee. Life doesn't get much better than that. I think that Thanksgiving and Christmas always produce the best desserts. Pies beyond pies beyond pies during Thanksgiving and thousands of cookies in every shape taste way and form during Christmas. I'm maxed-out on dessert. And, as if those aren't enough, my boyfriend and I thought it'd be a wonderful idea to get Coldstone ice cream, too, in between all these sweets. Most kids will arrive back at school with leftovers that are of the likes of turkey, stuffing, potatoes, and what have you, but no me. Me, I'll be arriving back at school with dessert! I'll be having pies and cookies while the others munch on tryptophan. Even though I now eat a lot less than what  I once did prior to coming to school, I know that I'll have my desserts last me, because I'm not plowing it all into my mouth at once. I can't wait to come back home and have Christmas sweets, but for now my pies will do...."Let them eat cake!"

Petrone's Project part. duce

My Project Thus Far

This is only a rough draft, and I realize I have much, much more I still have to do. I am currently in the process of trying to get interviews with my music professors. I am also still working on recording, because my voice is not up to my own standards right now. I have the outline of my project all written and planned out, I mainly just need to assemble it all together. Leave comments of any ideas or thoughts. Thank you! Have a wonderful break!

Follow the Petrone

Two summers ago, I got accepted into a leadership program in New York City for theater arts. I got to spend almost a month in the city with people from all over the United States. It had turned out that most the people I got to meet at the leadership conference we're all not only out of state, but had never been to the city. If you've never been to the city, then you're in for the hustle & bustle, the crowded & loud, and the never seeming to stop for second scene. Being from originally Long Island and now Poughkeepsie, I've always had the connivence of traveling into the city whenever I wanted, so I was use to the New York City scene and chaos, however the girls who were in my group we're not use to it in the slightest. I got to demonstrate my leadership abilities with them while we traveled throughout the city; crossing the streets, haggling with street vendors, and where to eat and not eat. Any true New Yorker knows that you need to walk those streets not only with assertion, but with confidence. The girls that I was with were surprised how I well I took on the city, and affectionately named me Momma Bear. I always made sure that we we're never separated, and that we we're always safe. I've always been one to step up to the plate when needed, and have always been one to take care of others. Most people refer to me as Mom, because I'm always making sure everyone is pleased, happy, and of course above all safe. Towards the end of the leadership conference the girls that I had been with were very appreciative and thankful. I know I always want to be the person who is making sure all is well and everyone is well. I don't mind it at all, and I know that one day when I'm old I'll have someone taking care of me.

Petrone & The Roommate From Hell

Okay, so as many of you know, I hated one of my roommates. That was the most difficult situation I had to deal with this semester. Her blatant rudeness was repulsive and floored me. I still cannot grasp how someone can think it's alright to just take another's stuff without any hesitation or permission. She would take, more so steal, my possessions. She also had gone on to vandalize my personal belongings, and went out of her way to not only treat me with utter disrespect, but as well as my other roommate, and guests we had in the room (which was rare, because she never left the room itself.) But, by far, the most horrid thing she did was use my deodorant. Let's say it together now people, "EW!" Again, repulsive. When I discovered this, I was absolutely revolted and nauseate. I had had multiple meetings with not only my Community Coordinators (CCs or RAs), but as well as my Hall Director. All individuals did nothing to help me. Why? Because, they had developed a friendship with my roommate over the summer when she took classes, and therefore had loyalty to her, and did nothing whats so ever to aid me in my situation. It's safe to say they did not know how to separate their personal relationships from work, and their job. I finally had enough, and eventually got in contact with Angela Todaro, who for those of you who are not aware, is the Director of Residence Life. The day I talked her, she, too, was without question not only repelled, but disgusted, and wondered why I had not been helped yet with my situation. It was Ms. Todaro who got another roommate for me, and all together put my other roommate in an entirely different hall (which I believe was because of the relationships she had had with the CCs and Hall Director in my hall.) How did I handle the most difficult situation of my semester? Communication; if I never made an effort to talk with any of the people I did, I probably would still be stuck with a God awful roommate. 

F.Y.I. my old roommate's new roommates are having the exact same troubles as I was having. I do not understand how one person can get away with all this? There needs to be repercussions for this girl, and some serious punishment.

Petrone Stimluated

“One good thing about music, when it hits- you feel no pain” -Bob Marley

We all have at least one class that we enjoy, that we feel we perform our best in, and that we stimulated in. For me, this class is musicianship. Southern Connecticut describes musicianship as a course where one is "Training in the recognition, singing/playing, and notation of intervals, rhythms, melodic phrases, and triads. Aural recognition of diatonic chord progressions and melodies." I am able to do most of my singing in this class, and because my singing is like my second nature, the class comes very easy to me. However, in the class I am assigned certain melodies to sing. The melodies are made of variations of Solfege. For those who do not know what Solfege is, it is the pattern of Do Re Mi Fa Sol La Ti Do....Solfege! Each name (Do, Re, Mi, etc) represents a certain pitch/sound for a designated note in whatever established key. Musicianship stimulates me, because it requires me to actively engage myself in the music. Thus, leading me to sing new ranges, keys, and intervals that I either have not sung, or not sung easily. Musicianship also stimulates me, because singing is my passion; being able to go to a class where I am not only predominately singing, but receiving credit, too, is awesome. Imagine being able to go to a class where you are able to be doing something you love. Musicianship is my stimulate, it allows me to sing freely....to make music and forget everything, and not feel anything but the music itself.

Petrone & Her Piano

"Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." -Victor Hugo

Touch your fingertips to each key, hear the sound resonate, and sing...Sing always. Only with a piano can you have this experience. This is where I study. I take six classes here at Southern, half of which are all music classes. So when it comes time for me to study for quizzes, tests, or finals, I find myself with Baldwin. It's here where I study for my music, where my music and I become one, and all my worries and troubles are played away. Studying is looked upon as such a mundane boring task, but for me, with my piano, it's different. In Earl Hall, you can find soundproof practice rooms, you can find art of all types, and you can find me with my piano, playing, practicing, singing my life away. Doesn't seem like studying at all, but it is in fact what I am doing. My classes require me to be here, and I don't mind it in the slightest. How could one mind sitting at one of the world's most classic beautiful instruments? I admit, I can't play it well, but what I can't play, I make up for with song. I feel somewhat lucky that I get the privilege to study how I do, and go about studying with a piano. The best part this is that there are pianos secretly dispersed throughout campus. You just need to follow the piano's melody...

 This is where I study.

For Kaitlyn...

"Esse Quam Videri"

Petrone Gets Her Fitness On, And Says "Goodbye Stress"

"Half our life is spent trying to find something to do with the time we have rushed through life trying to save." - Will Rogers, Autobiography, 1949

Got stress? Workout. It's that simple. Every time I'm feeling remotely stressed, I head straight for the gym. Something about working out just eases everything for me, and clears my mind. However much stress I'm usually experiencing factors into how long I workout, too. It helps keep your body healthy, while keeping your mind and spirit healthy as well. College is a time for stress, to say the least. So, head yourself on over to the gym. Go run, go and pump some iron, do whatever suits you, and I promise you that you'll feel much better when you're done. Maybe you'll feel a little sore, but that most the time means that you got a good workout in, so don't fret! Stress is extremely unhealthy for you, and one shouldn't endure it to levels where they are getting sick physically, and emotionally. Working out, I find not only relieves my stress, but also brings me back to down, and clams me. I find peace within myself. I also find that whatever I was once stressed about, seems to be insignificant. And, If I am stressed about a certain assignment, I find that after I'm done with my workout, my stress level goes down, and allows me to do whatever assigned better, and more sufficient. Workout, and say "Goodbye, stress!" Your mind, and body will thank you. Never "stress" the small stuff, Hakuna Matata!

Petrone's Effort....& Yours.

How come students who do not put an effort into their school work feel as if they deserve good grades? I don't understand that concept. I was always taught that the effort you put into something will reflect in your work, especially when it came to your (my) academics. School is very important to me, and so are my grades. I don't want, nor plan on disappointing myself, parents, and family with my grades, thus why I work so hard, and put in 100% effort. I've always found that the students who feel as if they deserve a better grades than the one(s) they are receiving, are the students who rely and depend on other people, for example, the students who are always asking for other peoples' work, help, and overall effort. It is their effort, not yours, that's why you're getting some good grades and some poor ones. The people who you rely on, are the people getting you the good grades in the first place. When you finally decide to maybe do your own work, you put in little effort, get a poor grade, and think & believe you deserve a better one because of previous good grades (good grades gotten from others for you.) If you couldn't tell, this subject really gets under my skin, because it truly does bother me, and it's mostly because I see and witness it on daily basis. I've subjected myself enough to those kinds of people, and I'm over it. Do your own work, get your own grades, because this girl puts in enough effort for herself. I don't mean to come off harsh, and this doesn't mean I won't help, I simply mean I am not going to do anyone else's work any longer. Students who get good grades, put in the effort. And for the students who do not, well, it will show in your grades, so don't be surprised.

Petrone's Performance (academically)

I believe in the power that if one writes down their goals, and views them each day, that they are to be achieved. Coming into college as the youngest in my family, I knew I had big shoes to fill. My brother graduated from SUNY Oneonta with honors, and got to speak on behalf of his graduating class, because of his achievements. My sister just recently graduated from Southern Connecticut and the highly competitive Nursing program here. Both my siblings knew what exactly they wanted for themselves, and accomplished the goals they set. I want to do the same, so in the beginning of the semester, right on my desk where I get ready every morning, I wrote on my white board that I wanted to maintain a G.P.A. of a 3.5 or better. Most every college kid is weary of the work load they'd be receiving, and is apprehensive about keeping up with it. I was/am one of those college kids, so I know that I not only want, but need to work my hardest. Midterms were this week, and I felt as if I studied my life away. But it paid off! I did well on all my midterms, and finally got to see how I'm currently doing. I am beyond happy to say my lowest grade is a B+, and that all the rest of my grades are A's. I feel that because I'm motivated to be successful in college, that I am achieving my own personal goals. However, I also feel that because I wrote down one of my main goals for college, that I am finding success. For the remainder of the semester, and college for this matter, I want to keep on maintaining a G.P.A. of a 3.5+, and keep up on my work load. I feel proud of myself, and highly recommend that everyone should write down their goals, because I believe that by doing so, you, too, will achieve whatever it is that you want!

Stick To Your Roots

"To thine own self be true."

So this weeks blog assignment was to do something out of your comfort zone and blog about it...I would say I'm a pretty spontaneous person, and am always up to doing and trying new things, thus I was somewhat lost as to figuring out what exactly to do. And, then out of no where it sort of just happened for me...I finally held my own ground. What I mean is that I was put in situation (again, unfortunately) where I felt that because I'm easy going, and kind hearted, that I was being taken advantage of. So, being out of my comfort zone for me, was holding my own ground and not being passive with a situation. I'm not one for drama, and truly cannot stand it, therefore I avoid it at all costs, and this can sometimes lead me to just except something that I necessarily don't approve of, and/or doesn't appease  me. I'm very non-confrontational, and at times this can conclude me to be too passive aggressive. However, I finally had enough this week. It came down to me feeling frustrated and upset....but mostly frustrated. I do not understand why people think it's okay to use others. I don't understand the concept of someone only befriending another so that if they need something, they can get it from them, and keep them stringing along in a friendship where the person is only useful to them when convenient. This bothers me more than you know, and I believe it is because I've been put in situations where I've felt exactly that. But, this week I had enough and made a vow to myself that I would not just settle, that I would not keep subjecting myself to people and situations where I'm not happy. I believe that if you, too, are enduring something along the lines of what I had, then you need to reevaluate yourself, and always stay true to who you are, because in the end, life is too short to be miserable and unhappy. It is only your own self that can make the right decisions for you, and a good portion of your own happiness stems from within yourself.



My brother and I always say to each other "stick to your roots."
I'm doing exactly that; I'm staying true to myself and happiness.

Narcissism.

"In order to love someone, you must first  be able to love yourself."

     Should one be characterized as narcissistic if they love them self? I believe this question is like a double edged sword; if one we're to say "Yes, I love myself," would another take that as the person being conceited? Or, if one we're to say "No, I don't," would that lead another to believe that that person has low self esteem? I was taught that one has to love them self in order to love another, but I was also taught to never be full of yourself. Nothing is uglier than one who believe the sunrises, and sets on them self. But, I ask you again, should one be characterized as narcissistic if they love them self? I don't believe that they should. If someone is genuinely kind-hearted, goes out of their way for other people, cares for others, and isn't selfish, then why shouldn't they love them self? A person who has a good character should be able to reflect upon them self with pride and love for who they are. However, that goes said to a certain degree. They shouldn't let that love inflate their ego. If one does not love them self, than they simply are not narcissistic? I think everyone should be able to reflect upon them self with love for who they are, because everyone is unique and special in their own ways. Therefore, I believe just because you love yourself, you should not be characterized as narcissistic.

Petrone's Project

Midterm Project

My midterm project....ahh thank god it's done! I enjoyed discovering what a variety of different people had to say for two of the same question. It's interesting to learn about different perspectives. I also enjoyed that our midterm wasn't a test, but this project. It's somewhat less stressful. However, technology and I don't mix well, so it took some learning on my behalf. I eventually figured out IMovie and found success. Thus, my video above. I hope you enjoy it, and feel free to leave a comment or two on what you believe the most important aspect of college is, and how you'd define it.

Petrone says"hmm?"

   What to write, what to write? This weeks blog entries are free choice. I love free choice...except when I find myself not knowing what to write about. All week I have been pondering about what the subject of my blog should be. I've gotten a few sparks of inspiration here and there, but nothing I've felt worth writing about, because I've either A) written about it previously, or  B) wouldn't know how to elaborate on the subject fully. I've Googled searched subjects, and have come up empty handed. I've looked to Facebook for inspiration, but find that I am more so distracted than inspired. Usually music is my fallback subject to write about, but I think that if I keep writing about it, that everything will seem redundant. So here I am, at work, still  uninspired. Still at a lost of what to write about. Still utterly confused. Again, I really do enjoy free choice, but I feel that writer's block is having the best of me. I sit here and wonder if anyone else is having the same trouble that I am having, and what outlets of ideas they have turned to. Maybe eating will help get the juices a-flowin', but I highly doubt that, due to the fact that I'm Italian, and every Italian eats every hour  on the hour. What to write, what to write? If anyone has any ideas for me, please feel free to help. It’s greatly appreciated. And, if the idea is especially good, I’ll be sure to reward you in treats.

Petrone and a P.M.

"Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen, and a push in the right direction."- John Crosby 

   Different ideas and thoughts float around when one enters college.  No one really can guess, nor expect, what their college experience will be like. Anxiety and worry can make its way to the surface, and the what is one to do? Hopefully, one should take the steps to confide in someone who is older and has experience in the realm of what they are enduring. Luckily, I was able to seek answers in my peer mentor, Kaitlyn. She is currently attending Southern Connecticut, and has sustained a successful freshman year. I find that she has been a great help to my INQ class. We've met with her before on a one-on-one level, and she has washed all my worries away. Kaitlyn has given advice to us when needed, and I find that because she is around our age, that it is easier to talk to her. One thing Kaitlyn recommends to myself, and class, is that we get involved here on campus. She is always keeping us updated with upcoming events and programs, and for this I am appreciative. Being a freshmen, life can get pretty crazy and stressful, however, being kept posted on these happenings, I find that I am managing my time so that I am an active student in the campus community. By Kaitlyn being apart of our INQ class, I find that she adds a more relatable aspect and quality to the class itself. She has taught me to always get involved, and no problem goes without a solution, and if we are weary, we could always go to her for help. A mentor is someone who possess attributes of knowledge, skill, and an overall good heart; they listen, and are there for one to confide in. Kaitlyn is all of this, and more.

Petrone Will Be Singing As If She'll Never Sing Again

"And scream, shred your lungs, I need to hear you louder now. And sing, as if you'll never sing again. And when the morning comes, and your throat is sore, you'll face the day like you did before, with a smile on in the end."- Ronnie Day

I would like to start my blog with a request to the reader: please take the time to listen to this song, thus you'll understand my perspective on music. Written At A Reststop- Ronnie Day

Singing. Where to begin? It's my passion. It's what I've wanted to do with my life since I was in 3rd grade. I use to tell my mother "One day, Mom, you'll see, I'll be on that television singing." And since then, it has not changed. I have a theory that if one were to believe in something so fully and truly, that it is bound to happen, therefore, I must keep telling myself, and believing that I will be singing for the world some day. When I'm on stage, everything is natural; I feel at home doing what I love. When I'm singing, I know I'm not only doing something that I know I'm meant to do, but also, something I know is right. Thus, I came to Southern Connecticut as a Music major. I am thinking about double majoring, or minoring in Communications, or Music Business. I am enrolled in a variety of music classes, and am learning more about music than I could have ever imagined. Music is such a huge part of my life. Though one might not know, nor believe, that at 19 I've been through hell and back, but I have, and music has aided me. It is my outlet, along with singing. Whenever I am feeling a certain way, I always turn to a song to listen and/or sing to as my release. Music has helped me overcome so many obstacles in my life, and my true dream is to create music that will help others in the way that music has done for me. Have you ever had to endure something in your life where you've felt at your lowest of lowest, and with just one particular song, whatever that might be, you've felt entirely better? I know I have. That's why I must make music; I need to be singing. I need to be giving back to music, and in a way, sing thank you to it, for all that it has done for me. One day I know I will be on stage singing. I long to create music, write lyrics, and have it be sung back to me from my audience. In high school, one of my teachers use to preach to me, as well as my classmates, to do something with our lives that we love doing. Life is too short to be doing something that not only you do not like, but also something that makes you miserable. I plan on singing in my life, and I will not stop. I will not allow anyone or anything to come between me and my dream. No matter where I end up on this journey we call College, I know that I will be singing each and every step of the way.

Petrone & Posts

"The role of a writer is not to say what we all can say, but what we are unable to say.  "- Anaïs Nin

   If one were to start writing a blog, what would they need to make their blog not only stand out, but memorable? A successful blog needs to first catch ones eye; one could go about this by adding a quote, a picture, or colorful theme, much like seen in Michelle's blog. Another aspect of a blog that make it's better from others is the language used. If a blog flows well, and the language is not only creative, but eloquent, it leads the reader to not only enjoy the blog more, but also allows for the reader to understand the blog, and can leave them to have the desire to revisit that particular blog. I personally enjoy the language of Oscar's blog. I feel that he writes not only well, but in a style that I find entertaining. When writing a blog, a blog must be comprehendible. It cannot be a jumble of thoughts, which jump from one matter to another. This will leave a reader not only confused, but not wanting to return to that blog. A good blog must include a formal introduction, body, and conclusion. I feel that a all of the blogs that I have read, and enjoyed, have had this format, see ksullivan's blog. In my own opinion, the blogs I like best are blogs that emote a particular feeling, emotion, and/or expression. Writing is an outlet for some, and like I have said in a previous blog, is something that is truly freeing. A truly good blog, is a blog that leaves the reader thinker; thinking about either the subject, or an experience, or whatever may have you. A memorable blog, is a successful blog.

College; col·lege (n.)

  “There are no such things as limits to growth, because there are no limits to the human capacity for intelligence, imagination, and wonder” - Ronald Reagan 

    What is College? What is the most important aspect of College? So many people define college as different things, some say it's a milestone in most everyone's life where they figure out what, or who they want to be, while others just simply look upon college as more schooling. While the technical definition of college, defined by Merriam-Webster, is a self-governing constituent body of a university offering living quarters and sometimes instruction but not granting degree, I personally believe college is something greater than that. College, in my opinion, is a vital time in one's life where they discover who they truly are. One is out on their own learning, growing, achieving whatever it is they set out to achieve for themselves. I feel that college is a time for one to grow in a variety of ways; one can grow in their field of choice, for example, I'm growing in music, due to my desire in being a musician. One can grow in interacting with new people, grow in interacting with a new environment. This growth, I believe, is critical. College allows for one to discover so much about themselves. However, this is just my opinion and perspective on college. I am curious to find out what others have to say. What they believe the most important aspect of college is, and how they define it. The outlooks are endless....I want to discover what those outlooks are.

Petrone, Pride, and some Football in between

   The roaring of the crowd, the bright lights of beaming onto the field, the brisk chill in the air, coupled with a looming excitement projected from the Southern fans, my first ever college football game. Arriving to the tailgate with my friends was bittersweet. I love football, and use to go to my high school's games all the time. We were huge on spirit, and so is Southern Connecticut, but I couldn't shed the feeling of wishing I was at a game back in my hometown, where I knew the players out on the field, where I got to see my friends are all stacked in the stands, and where I saw that good old maroon and gold pride illuminating off every inch of the town. It takes some getting use to being at a new school, and not having all the same pride that you once had for your high school, to now have for your college. But, regardless, I painted my face in blue and white, and got prepared to enjoy some Southern Connecticut football.
    My friends and I all went to the tailgate, because we knew we'd be getting some free food, and honestly, what college kid would turn down anything free, especially food. We ate well, and then started preparing ourselves for the game. Like mention previously, we all decided to get our faces painted. We put on our Southern Connecticut wear, and we were ready to cheer on our football team, my new football team. We pumped ourselves up with a new feeling of pride, because this game was special. This game would be televised! The stands were packed; of course it seemed like everyone was there, and as we made our way through the crowd and found our spots in the stands, I thought to myself, "This is it Lex, for the next four years, this is your team, this is your pride." I cheered, I yelled, I was focused in on that game. Southern Connecticut took the win, and I couldn't have been happier. The game was a blast, and it's gotten me now excited for upcoming games. I can't wait to be in the stands cheering on my Southern football players. 

Petrone, Perez, & PostSecret

            Writing is an action that can be described as free. One can freely write whatever they want and express themselves through it. It can also lead one to feel as if they are freeing themselves of emotion. This particularly rings true with blogs. Blogs can be found all over the Internet now relating to every topic the mind can think of. My two favorite blogs to view are PostSecret and Perez Hilton. Both are extremely different from one another, but however are still very intriguing.
            PostSecret is a blog spot where people anonymously send in postcards revealing their secrets; the secrets vary from funny, to personal, to joyful, to somber. The secrets that are shared are endless, and one can discover a secret, or two, that might even pertain to themself. I find myself routinely checking the secrets every Sunday since new ones are posted then. PostSecret is enjoyable for me, because having the courage to post something so personal to oneself for the world to see has to be one of the most freeing feelings experienced. Putting yourself out there for everyone to view is not only liberating, but truly courageous, and it takes a very strong person to do so. Seeing all the postcards sent in reminds me of how unique each one of us is, but how even the most simple of aspects, like a fear, or experience, can bring us together.
           Perez Hilton, not to be confused with Paris Hilton, is a fella who created a blog spot about celebrities, and their crazy Hollywood lives. Being in the public eye comes with a price; Perez Hilton reminds celebrities of that, and how their actions can be critical to their careers. The blog talks of a variety of matters, from where a celebrity is sighted, to what one celebrity did the night prior. It also has certain posts talking of celebrity charities and events that have been set up to benefit a certain society, for example Stand Up to Cancer. I find Perez Hilton to be extremely entertaining, because it's crazy how some celebrities act, and portray themselves in the lime light. It also reminds me of how I do not want to act once I'm a famous singer.
          PostSecret and Perez Hilton are two extremely different blog sports. PostSecret has millions of postcards, while Perez Hilton talks of the million dollar lives of celebrities. I feel as if people who enjoy the deeper level and emotion of writing, would enjoy PostSecret. And, if you enjoy the Hollywood life, than you'd enjoy Perez Hilton. I find myself to be a person who enjoys multiple lifestyles and writing styles, so both blog spots are entertaining for me.

Time After Time (Management)

"Time management is a set of principles, practices, skills, tools, and systems that work together to help you get more value out of your time with the aim of improving the quality of your life." - Defined from Time Thoughts .


As these college days go by, I cannot help but have to manage my time. I've mentally mapped out my schedule; Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays are my music classes. Tuesdays & Thursdays are my English and Inquiry classes. The work that  is necessary to be done for those classes, I do the day after, so that way I'm alternating which days I do the work for them. I also find that since my job allows me time to do my school work, I do much of it there. I'm very particular about going out on the week days. If I choose to go out, I make sure that I'm back in my dorm at a decent time, that way I'm not exhausted for class the next day. I also make sure that if I am going to go out, that all my work is done for the classes after, for example, homework, studying, etc. While one thinks time management in college mostly relates to school work, I refer time management to other aspects. I make sure that I'm always in touch with my family and friends back home in New York. They are very important, and vital people in my life, and I do not want to put them all on the back burner just because I'm at college. I make sure that when I do have a spare minute, I make the effort to call either a family member or friend. I also find that I manage my time with my boyfriend. Since he and I are doing a long distant relationship, communication is crucial, so he and I find time at the end of our day to talk to one another and keep our relationship stable. We also find ourselves mapping out dates for when we can plan to visit one another. Time management is something that can be taught and learned, but performing it, and carrying it our fully, is where the benefits of it come into play. I believe mapping schedules out is the key to true time management success.

Petrone in your Heart

"You be the anchor that keeps my feet on the ground. I'll be the wings that keep your heart in the clouds." - Mayday Parade

     There are no words for it; no pictures that can capture it fully, nor any song lyrics, melodies, or harmonies, to truly grasp the feeling of it. It's that crazy little thing we call love. It's said that love can make you do many things. It can make you feel as if you're floating on air, or your stomach to feel as if it could burst with butterflies. The feeling of happiness just overwhelms you, and you're overtaken with a feeling that words would not be able to do justice for. The feeling is beyond happiness, beyond fullness, and you're heart seems to skip a beat with just the thought of that person. While all these words seem to be clique, and as if to be borrowed from any sappy song or movie, it is the only way to talk of love. Because, love is, what I believe to be, an aspect of life each person is so deeply meant to endure, and experience, and feel. Love is a counterpoint in time that makes the soul full and the heart to have wings. Love takes flight in the pennon of another's heart. It has the endowment to make one brave, or feel beautiful, or make one feel safe, or complete. Love has been seen through out history in paintings, and in works of Shakespeare. It's been sung of by The Beatles, Billy Joel, & many others. Love's been found in poetry & in novels. Thus, its timelessness. It can be found in all of these matters, however finding it & experiencing it are two entirely different affairs. To find it among two people, in whatever form, is to look upon love and witness something beautiful. But, to actually feel it...to feel it is magic, and wonder, and one of the most paramount facets of life.

 

I have come  to experience what so many do so seek in life. I have stumbled upon love, and it has landed me in heaven.

Outcasts United

    Who willing wants to read any assigned book, further more, who wants to read an assigned summer reading book? I know I did not at all. However, my education is very critical to me, and I knew I had to do what I had to do. And, that was to read Outcasts United, by Warren St. John. At first, I did not think I'd like the book at all, because I figured how would I be able to relate to this book to actually enjoy it? But, much to my surprise, I enjoyed the book. I myself use to be a soccer player, and the book truly made me wish that I still played. I found the aspects of the book about soccer to be riveting and lively. Yes, at times the book seemed to go on and on, however, anytime I reached a part about soccer, I imagined it, truly upheld a visual of it all (taken from my own experiences) and felt the game. Soccer though, was not the only theme throughout entire book.
    Outcasts United is a story of Luma Mufleh. She was born into a very traditional family in Jordan. However, traditional was the furthest thing Luma desired to be, even though it was expected of her. Luma got to attend college in the United States, and after which she did not return to Jordan, mainly because she knew she could not follow the traditional ways that were so sought out for her. In Atlanta, Georgia, while driving through Clarkston, Luma came across the game of soccer, played by refugee boys. Having prior experience coaching soccer, she became the new coach for the group of boys. She learned of their lives and struggles, and in some ways, became a mentor to them. 
    Outcasts United reminded myself of my own troubles that I've experienced, and how soccer was outlet to escape it all, and forget whatever was occurring in that present time. I wish I still played soccer, because watching the game, and reading of it, makes me miss it all that much more. But in conclusion, Outcasts United was an accomplished summer reading book that I actually did enjoy.

Vision Board

Problems of Petrone

   I am firm believer in everything happens for a reason, much like how the challenges that I will potentially face in college will happen so that I can learn & grow from them. So far, the confrontations I have been faced with within the first two weeks have been obstacles of rooming & boarding, rather than academic. I'm currently dealing with a situation where the food and drinks I have bought and provided for myself, have been  "mysteriously" vanishing. Throughout these past few days of this Southern heat, I've gone to grab a water I've stored conveniently in the fridge to cool, and have come to find my water gone, and not where I had previously placed it. Along with my waters moving, my fan at the top of my bunk bed has been shifted to the opposite side of the room to the floor. Bare in mind that I was the only one to bring a fan, which is small and made for one. Personal Size. I've also come upon my newly bought, and not cheap in the slightest, MacBook, to be used more frequently by others than  by my own self. I do not take this matter lightly. So, I've learned to put my name on my water bottles. I've learn to bring another fan (again, personal sized) and put that one at the top my bed, that way no one other than myself has to go onto my bed to get it. I've also come to learn how to put a lock on my computer so that no one can access it for their own personal using. Like I stated previously, I do not take this matter lightly, thus its importance. I need water stay hydrated in this scorching heat, which is important to my health. I need my fan, because I already have heat rash, and do not in turn want it to develop further  (also important to my health.) And, I do not want to be hauling out more cash to my already expensive computer to fix problems I did not have any part of causing. Plus, I need my computer for my classes, which is extremely important to me academically.

Deep Thinker vs. Educated Person

   To think; it's a task that comes so natural to us it's like breathing. Absorbing information like a sponge, too, is natural, whether we realize it or not. However there are differences between the two; one can be a become a deep thinker, and another an educated person. Let's first look at what a deep thinker is.
   Deep thinking is when one not only reads, but reads in a way where they mull over the piece. It requires analyzing, pondering & questioning, and processing the piece to its fullest. Deep thinking allows one to not only think outside the box, and gain different perspectives, but it also broadens ones horizons. It allows for them to become knowledgeable on different levels.
   An educated person; who is qualified as an educated person, if not all of us. Each and everyone of us is educated on some level. We've retained information of some matter and/or factor, and thus educated are educated on it. But, if one is educated, does that mean they are a deep thinker, and vice versa?
   One who is educated is not necessarily a deep thinker, because one who is educated can read something and not truly process what it says. Anyone can read something, but when you are a deep thinker, you do more than that.
   Being a deep thinker does not necessarily mean you are educated. Some of the best deep thinkers I know did not come from a formal education. For example, my mother did not go to college, however if you were to sit down with her and actually have an intellectual conversation about a piece, she would be able to discuss it on a variety of levels much like a deep thinker does. Therefore not having the education background as most of us have, does not mean one can not be a deep thinker.
   What is the difference between an educated person and a deep thinker? Well, there are many differences, maybe you are deep thinker, maybe you are simply educated. Maybe you are lucky and are both!

Petrone & SoCo

    College. Here I am, a freshman at Southern Connecticut State University. I never thought I could make it here. I can remember the first day of high school, being absolutely terrified, and now I'm here! I'm here feeling nervous, excited, anxious, but ready. I know I'm ready to start working toward something that I know will benefit me not only in my future, but my future career, too.
     College has always been look upon as a time in most everyone's life that proceeds after high school, however it is truly so much more. It is a time in life, for me, to grow as a person, as a student, and as a musician, because singing is my passion, and i know that without attending college, and rejecting this time for valid growth, I would not be able to thrive in society. Academically, it means that achieving good grades is what I strive for. I believe in the power of writing down your goals, and my goal for college is to academically achieve a GPA of 3.5 or better.
      College provides not only a time of great growth, but as well as a time for branching out of your comfort zone, and meeting new people. It's a time to experience not only these various people, but their differing views, opinions, and perspectives, too. By meeting all these different people, I personally feel as if I can become a person that sees situations & matters from both sides of the podium. By doing so, too, I can ethnically become more aware of contradicting lifestyles, and thus acquire more knowledge of them.
      Though college can bring troublesome worries to some, for me, my only true concerns are not being able to meet my own expectations, and therefore letting myself down. I hope to experience this moment in my life here at Southern Connecticut richly, and positively.

Who I Am

       Who am I? Who are you? Every once in a while, I believe that we all need to take a step back and evaluate who we are as individuals. I am a sister, a nurturer, a dreamer, a singer, and an optimist. All of these matters of my life have contributed to who I am today, and for without which, I would not be the individual that I am.
      Growing up, my family has always surrounded me, mainly because we are Italian and love being in each other's business, and because we each support one another on daily bases. I am a sister. I have two older siblings, a brother & sister. My brother Charles, 24, has recently become a cop, and my sister Noelle, 22, has not only recently graduated from Southern Connecticut, but is also a nurse at St. Francis Hospital. Having siblings who've chosen to go into such noble professions makes me not only feel privileged, but honored. I mean of course I'm going to brag about how each day they willing help other people. They've helped influence me in various aspects of my life, but they've especially influenced me to be a nurturer, and always care for other people.
      I am a nurturer. Being older than most my friends has always made me act in more mature ways, and therefore has lead me to always be caring about them constantly. I do this because my friends & family have done so much for me, that everyday I wake up grateful. By taking care of them all, I feel as if in a small way I am not only saying thank you, but I am also giving back to them. I always want to be caring for people, especially with how Today's issues of the world unfold themselves upon us. This has lead me to dream; I dream that one day violence won't be the answer, and that tragedy won't be the only thing to bring people together.
      I am a dreamer. I have a theory that if someone believes in something so much, it is bound to happen in some sort of way; whether someone dreams of love, or if someone dreams of stardom, like I do, I believe by dreaming of it so strongly, it will come true. Thus, I dream of becoming a famous singer.
      I am a singer. Since the third grade, I have told my mother that I was to become a famous singer. Everyday, especially down the halls of Hickerson, you can hear me singing; it is rare that I'm not. Singing and music has always been my outlet source of relieving emotion, whether positive or negative. Music has inspired me so greatly, that by singing, I hope to bring inspiration to others. I also would love to bring forth to people hope, thus I am an optimist.
     For High School, my senior quote was "Even on the most darkest of nights can you see the most brightest of stars."-Optimus Prime. This quote means that no matter what, one must always have hope, and each day I carry hope with me. I look at the glass half full, rather than half empty. Hope can bring one a long way. For me, it has brought me out of rock bottom, and has turned me into an optimist.
     All of these things that have shaped me into who I am, and are crucial in my life. They've made me into the individual that I am. Ask yourself this: Who am I? Who are you?