Welcome to Alumni!

The last few days have been relatively normal… not a whole lot is really going on. I’m getting into a routine for my classes and homework. Wednesdays have become my favorite days because I only have one class that doesn’t start until 10:10. I also learned that Sports Illustrated gets delivered on Wednesdays here, so that means that it really is my favorite day of the week. I’m working as write this. I’ve found pretty much the easiest job that exists I think. As a Desk Attendant I sit at the front desk of Alumni (my dorm) and make sure that suspicious people don’t go unnoticed, sort mail and greet people with a smile. Basically I get paid to sit here and do my homework, which is really nice. The unfortunate thing is that minimum wage in Indiana is only $5.15/ hour, and I’m coming off making $8/hour at Cold Stone. So that certainly sucks. I only work about ten hours a week, but I think I would go crazy from boredom if I worked more than that, and the only reason I need money is to pay my cell phone bill and for spending money, and I should be able to do both of those things with the small income I bring in.

Perhaps the coolest part of my job is that I get to meet a lot of different people. I’ve met a lot of the freshman football players, and apparently we had a blow out game this last weekend… it was away. I also heard that it was against a division 3 team, so that could be why. More importantly, I’ve met some basketball players. Now that might actually do me some good. This way, when people see that we make it to the NCAA Tournament this year, and watch us on tv I can say "I know that kid, his name is Paul, he's from England." and I won't be lying. They tell me that our team is supposed to be good this year, and even better next year, so don't be surprised if you see me on tv come march.

The tornado siren went off again this week and I immediately thought “that’s it, I’m moving back to Oregon.” Then I was informed that it was just a test of the system and it happens every first Tuesday of the month. You would think that would be something they told you at orientation or at least those of us from non-tornado zones. How am I supposed to know what is real and what is a test? I guess I'll just get used to it, and know that if there ever was a tornado, like there was my first week here that the siren works. And, it's fricking loud.

I went to some frat parties this weekend, and I figured out which ones are shady, and which ones are actually cool. I earned some real street cred at the Sig Eps house, because I came prepared to Slip-n-Slide. Apparently not many people did. Right now I need to get back to doing some homework before my last real day of classes for the week. Friday is another easy day which is nice, especially since I'm done with classes at 11am. I don't really have any plans for this weekend yet, but it's time for the annual Valparaiso Popcorn Festival, so we'll probably stop by there at some point. I hope all is well with all of you- Vickie

people have been asking me for my address here so i'll just post it now:
Vickie Chambers
Alumni Hall 514
1605 Campus Drive East
Valparaiso, IN 46383