End of Semester Blues

Most of you are probably feeling the finals week crunch right about now. Don't worry, that's totally normal. It probably hasn't quite hit you that you are actually done with those classes you've struggled with all semester. And for those of you who attended the football game on Friday night; this weekend has probably been a little bit more painful than a normal study weekend. But have no fear--the end of the semester is near. (Yes, I realize that was an extremely corny rhyme, but I felt the need put it in there anywhere.)

In the last week, it has finally started to sink into my brain that I won't be in Missoula next semester. Don't get me wrong, I'm super excited to go on my exchange. But, part of me is a little sad. As a fourth year student (on the five year plan) I am at a point where a lot of my friends who came to school at the same time as I did are graduating. This means that they won't be here when I get back next summer. I guess that's part of the process in college though. We all come together, form bonds, build friendships, then leave to find careers in the 'real world'. I've known that I was going to be leaving a lot of good friends but now that it's almost go time, it's really hitting home.

So not only am I dealing with the sadness of leaving so many great friends with hopes of making new friends in Wales, I'm also trying to concentrate on my finals. But it's been hard. How can I study for a test when I have offers to hang out with friends that I may not see for six months, a year, or worse....never again? I've definitely shifted priorities lately. I'd rather see my friends than get that extra study time in. Is it worth a lower grade? I'd like to think so. Good luck to everyone on your finals. I hope you do well and don't get too stressed out over this week. And to all my friends and acquaintances, call me this week. I'd love to grab coffee, chat over lunch, or go out to dinner. We can even make it a study date. Hope you all get that grade you've been working all semester to achieve.

A True Brawl of the Wild

Saturday marked the 106th meeting of the Montana Grizzlies and Montana State Bobcats football teams...or as some like to call it The Brawl of the Wild. I was pretty excited for the game since this would be my first Griz/Cat game experience. (Side note: I thought it was Cat/Griz and always said Cat/Griz, until I was shunned by my peers for putting our rivals' name before our home team. So for all intents and purposes I will now say Griz/Cat, even though alphabetically C comes before G...oh well.)

My sister was driving up from Bozeman for the game, so in addition to the rivalry between schools, we had the whole family rivalry going on. Even more reason to go out and cheer for our guys. That and the fact that I was one of the lucky people to spend 16 hours in the University Center waiting for my ticket and a guest pass. So you better believe that I wasn't gonna let that ticket go to waste.

We arrived in the stadium about 20 minutes before game time. Just in time to see the pre-game show. It kicked off with the routine skydivers trying to land on the grizzly at the 50 yard line. Next Monte, our beloved mascot, rode out onto the field in his usual style sportin' his leather jacket and his sweet motorcycle. The crowd did their usual cheering upon Monte's arrival. Then a surprise 'celebrity' guest rode into the stadium. It was none other than Benny the Bull, the Chicago Bulls mascot. The crowd went into an overwhelming uproar. (For those of you who don't know the connection between Benny the Bull and U of M: the guy who is now Benny the Bull used to be Monte. His antics made Monte into the well-known gymnast, dancer and crowd pleaser during his time as Monte. He also made Monte the Capital One National Mascot for the first time before leaving Missoula to take the position as Benny the Bull. Got it? Okay. Let's move on.)

Finally, it was go time. The massive inflatable football helmet was aired up and the team geared up to enter the field. The MSU Bobcats made their way out and were greeted by an overwhelming "Boooo." Not exactly a warm welcome. Next the Grizzlies ran onto the field. The crowd went wild.

To tell you the truth, I had more fun watching the crowd interact with each other than watching the game. Sure, there was the occasional exciting moment when my friends and I would jump up and down screaming and yelling as our players intercepted or ran the ball down the field, but for the most part, I was amazed by the atmosphere of the game. Especially when three MSU fans decided to stand in the UM student section. You could cut the animosity with a knife. After being heckled and having a few things thrown at them (by the way, if the person who was throwing things is reading this...Not cool--you weren't exactly representing our school very well, plus most of the stuff you threw hit Griz fans) these students made the wise decision to relocate to the south end zone during half time. Thanks to our amazing defense, we prevailed; beating the Bobcats 13-7.

At the end of the game, the crowd rushed the field to celebrate our victory with the team. This victory led the Griz to be undefeated in our conference. And we have a playoff game this Saturday at Washington Grizzly Stadium. So, for those of you traveling home for Thanksgiving, I hope you have an awesome holiday. And for those of you staying in Missoula, I better see you at the game on Saturday supporting our team. Go Griz!

It's a World of Music

The Missoula music scene never ceases to amaze me. Almost every night of the week you can find live music somewhere in Missoula. Whether it's at an open mic night, a concert in town, or a local band playing a show, there is almost always somewhere to hear live music. I tend to enjoy going to open mic night. This provides a plethora of musical genres and talented artists and musicians strutting their stuff. Monday nights at Sean Kelly's proves to be a great atmosphere for open mic. Every other Tuesday you can find entertainment in the UC game room where musicians and comedians test the waters. Throughout the rest of the week there are plenty of venues to check out music. Here's a list of places to check out: The Other Side, Bear's Brew, The Loft, Higgins Hall, The Elk's Club, The Top Hat, The Wilma Theater, and various locations on Campus. Keep in mind, some of these venues are for 21 and over. But there are plenty of opportunities to see great music at other venues.

So if you are a fan of music, or just looking for something fun to do, check out a local musical act. You can usually find a schedule in the entertainment section of free publications such as The Independent and The Missoulian Entertainer. Or if you feel like going on a weekend venture, there are always great acts at The Big Easy Concert House in Spokane, a quick 3 hour drive. Or check out a show in Butte. That's what my friends and I did a couple weekends ago. We went to the Butte Silver Dollar to watch Anna McGary. She rocks. Check her myspace page out at www.myspace.com/annamcgary. Here's a shot of Anna rocking out on her guitar.

Election Day Craziness!

I hope all of you exercised your right to vote today. I'm patiently awaiting the election results and sort of working on my homework even though I'm more than slightly distracted by the election updates. Today was filled with election day activities and I give kudos to everyone who voted, especially those who are considered "America's Youth". Your vote really does count and if you aren't voting, I feel that you really have no right to complain about state of our country. However, if you are making your voice heard then you are doing something to change things. And that is what matters. So good work!

Surviving College Life

As a fourth year student in Missoula I find myself thinking about how much I've changed since I moved here in August of 2003. A lot can happen in 3 years and thinking back I wish someone would have prepared me for the things to come in college. So, here are my top five tips for those preparing to start college.

Things I wish I would have known before coming to the University...

1. Quarters are actually gold. With your spare quarters you can do almost anything. Buy a meal, go to a movie, do laundry, or go to that concert you really want to see. It's amazing how rich you will feel with a jar of quarters by your side. And no matter how much money you have saved up, you will become one of those 'broke college students' you've heard so much about. Be prepared.

2. Getting junk mail can actually be exciting, especially in the dorms. Checking your mailbox will become one of the most exciting parts of your day. And when you look through the little mailbox window and see an envelope in there, your day will be just a little brighter. Even if its junk mail, it is always exciting to receive mail at college.

3. Just because you don't have to go to class doesn't mean you shouldn't go to class. I must say that it is nice to have the choice of whether or not to go to class. But keep in mind, even though you're too tired to get up for your 8:00 a.m. class it is still taking place. And you are missing out on information that you will be tested on. If you aren't a morning person, don't try and convince yourself that you'll get up. Just sign up for later classes.

4. Who you were in high school doesn't matter anymore. So you were the homecoming queen, or the captain of the football team, or maybe even the student body president. Guess what? Nobody here cares. Not to say that those aren't great achievements and moments in your life that you should be proud of; just don't get too full of yourself. Because once you are here, you are just another incoming freshman. Another new face on campus. And even though you think you blend in with everyone, we see the lost looks on your faces during the first few weeks when everything is new and exciting. We know who you are and one day you too will find humor in watching the new students find their way around. It's a right of passage.

5. There will never be such a fine line between friends and family. You are out on your own for presumably the first time in your life. The people you choose to surround yourself with will become the most valuable friends you have ever have. They will become your support network, your best friends, the shoulder to cry on, your Friday night entertainment, and the closest thing to family you will have in your college career. So choose wisely who you decide to have in your life. Because trips home can be few and far between, so your friends will truly get you through the tough times.

There are so many other things I wish I could tell you but that would take far more time than either of us are willing to commit to this blog. So hopefully this information is helpful to those preparing for college and somewhat humorous to those who read this and thought "That is so true."

Studying in a foreign country...the possibilities are endless.

Last Tuesday, I attended a pre-departure workshop for study abroad students. It was an informative session conducted to prepare about 30 students for living abroad next semester. I am one of these students and I must admit...I'm not ready. I'll be studying at the University of Wales-Aberystwyth in Great Britain during Spring semester 2007. Although I am excited to spend a semester in Wales, I'm starting to realize how much I have yet to do. Granted, I have my passport and have selected a flight, but there are so many little things to think of like vaccinations, health insurance, housing, and whether or not I'll be able to plug my laptop in once I get there.

For those of you who are not familiar with UM's study abroad programs, there are many options. Think of it like this--if you have the mid-semester blues and all you do is dream of being able to just take a semester off and travel but you don't want to fall behind in your graduation plan there is hope. The perfect solution is studying abroad. I am going on a Partner Exchange, which means that while I am studying at Aberystwyth, a University of Wales student will be studying in Missoula. There are also opportunities through ISEP-Direct programs which you can learn more about through the Office of International Programs (OIP). Basically, next semester I will be living in the lush green Welsh countryside next to the Irish Sea and just a hop, skip and a jump away (or flight) from Paris, Madrid, Dublin and many other Western European travel destinations. After 3 1/2 years in Missoula, it will be a nice change of scenery and the best part is, I'll still be receiving credits and taking classes.

I chose Wales because I wanted a destination which would not require me to learn a second language, however, there are literally options to study all over the world. At the workshop alone, I heard from students who will be studying in Spain, Japan, France, Austria, Germany, Ireland, South Africa, Chile and even Ghana. That's right, we have an exchange program to Ghana. Who knew?

At this time last year, I hadn't even considered studying abroad. But after discussing the possibilities with some friends, I realized that this would be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Check out the OIP website, www.umt.edu/oip, or even go over to the office and get information about a country you might be interested in. Believe me, even though I haven't experienced it first hand yet, I'm quite certain it will be a highlight in your life should you choose to study abroad. Scout's honor.

Disclaimer: I was never actually a girl scout so technically 'scout's honor' is not a valid promise. Sorry.

Word on the Street: The Rolling Stones were in town...keep it on the down low and you didn't hear it from me

WARNING: This blog may contain sarcastic undertones. If you do not deal well with sarcasm, please navigate away from this page immediately. Reading on and taking this seriously could result in a loss of respect for the blogger. Something this blogger does not want to have happen.


In case you've been stuck in your room for the last few weeks prepping for midterms and being the studious student I know you strive to be, I have something to tell you. It's kind of a big deal and not a whole lot of people know, but...the Rolling Stones were in town. Shhh! It's true. I know what you're thinking, "What? The Stones? In Missoula? No!? Why didn't someone tell me?" Well, I apologize for the lack of advertisement on my part, but as I said, it's kind of been a hush-hush type of thing. No, it's too late for you, my friend, they are already in Regina, Saskatchewan for their next two shows (yes, that's right, Regina gets two shows....lame, I know). If you missed out on the biggest-event-to-ever-grace-Missoula-with-its-presence Wednesday night, don't feel bad. Apparently a lot of people didn't get the memo that the Stones were coming to town. That would be the only reasonable explanation as to why so many people were trying to jump the fences and sweet talk their way in to sneak a peak at these legends who shaped American rock during the British Rock Invasion.

You see, I was working for UM Productions security on the night of the show. You know the couple hundred people in bright yellow shirts you saw in and around the stadium on Stones Day ( <---please see TANGENT below)? I was one of them. I know what you're thinking; you're jealous that I got to stand by the stage for the entire show, or guard the dressing room, or escort the band from the Adam's Center to the stadium. I would be jealous of me too....if that had been the case. But instead I had the pleasure of holding down the fort by the porta potties. Yeah, baby. Nothing like being stationed by the line of nomad restrooms...oh the people those wandering outhouses see...aaah. Sorry about that, so back to the security post. I also got to open a fence for all the crew members going back and forth from their trucks into the stadium. It was interesting to see how many people travel on tour just to make sure the stage is set up and everything is ready for each show. After the show, a couple of the drivers showed me some pictures they took during the performance and offered to email them to me. We'll see if that actually happens. All in all, it was a good time. I at least got to hear the concert and other than the occasional fence climber/jumper, it was fairly enjoyable. I even got to see about 15 seconds of the last song, go me.

Another interesting tidbit about the show is that it apparently drew some celebrity fans to Missoula. Not that I want to drop names or anything but word on the street is that the following celebrities may, or may not have showed up in Missoula for this event of epic proportions: Rock Legend himself-Huey Lewis, Members of Pearl Jam, Wisteria Lane's own Eva Longoria, the man-Morgan Freeman, another rockin' band-Nickelback, Mr. Governor Brian Schweitzer, and our own local celebrity news anchor-Jill Valley.

Apparently they heard about the news of the Stones coming to town through the industry buzz. Like I said, if you were completely oblivious to the larger than life show that just passed through town, have no fear. You might still be able to catch a glimpse of the stage as it's being torn down. That's almost like being at the show....almost.

(TANGENT: Stones Day is the official new name for October 4th. It no is longer just a date. It has officially been deemed "Stones Day". For instance, if your birthday is on October 4th and someone asks you when your birthday is, you are now obligated to say, my birthday falls on Stones Day. Why? Because I said so! Gosh!)

Intramural Sports and the Overestimation of Oneself

I woke up Sunday morning to the droning sound of my alarm clock. I looked at the time, 10:35, and tried to convince myself to get out of bed. It was Sunday after all, the day to sleep until someone calls me at 11:00 a.m. and I ask why they are calling so early and then we debate whether or not 11:00 is early on a Sunday when I should already be up but decided sleep was more important than anything else that could be happening at that time of day. It is called the day of rest after all, and personally I take that very seriously. We should all have a day of rest. But rest was not the topic of this particular Sunday for I had signed myself up for an intramural volleyball team and we were to meet at the Rec Center at the crack of noon on this glorious day.

I showered and prepared to take part in a sport that I haven't actually played since I was on the 8th grade varsity team some seven or eight years ago and haven't technically played since P.E. class my sophomore year of high school. I walked into the Rec Center, swiped my Griz Card, and found my way to the volleyball court. I warned my two other team mates that this wasn't gonna be pretty due to my lack of recent ball play. We all decided that since we were a bit rusty, our team motto would be "We kind of suck right now." This means, there's plenty of room for improvement. We started the usual warm ups of bumping the ball to each other, setting on occasion, then worked into serving. After some trial runs of spiking, which didn't go to well since none of us could jump above the net, we resorted back to bumping the ball and passing it around our little circle.

At this point, I was feeling pretty good about my mad skills. I could still spot serve the ball to basically any area of the court, my passes were going in the general direction I wanted (most of the time), I could set the ball up for a spike, and when I was hitting I at least got the ball over the net.

And then it happened. The ball was coming at me and I knew I needed to hustle in order to save this pass. I scurried to my right, trying to get to the ball before it hit the ground. As I lunged down to get under the pass, I felt it. There it was, like stepping foot in a foreign land, there in my derriere I felt the pull of a muscle (which to this point in my life I had no clue existed) which sent a pain shooting down the back of my leg. "This cannot be good" I thought to myself. As I slowly stood back up, I felt the unpleasant strain of the pulled muscle and yet found it somewhat amusing that I had discovered a muscle I didn't even know I had. The pain quickly went away and we continued playing ball.

Had I not become overly confident in my sweet volleyball skills (or lack thereof), I probably would not have gone for that ball, and to this day, would not know of this muscle which exists in my posterior. So my advice to all those reading this on such a fine day would be to try out intramural sports because even if you think it will just be fun to play a sport you may enjoy, you just might discover something new about yourself. I leave you with some words of wisdom from Forrest Gump...."Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get."

Blah-g of the day...being a UM Blogger

Why would I want to be a blogger? (Other than the obvious reasons of fame and fortune of course) Well being a blogger isn't all its cracked up to be. Do you know how hard it is to come up with something new and exciting to tell the world that people would actually be interested in reading? Besides I'm not a writer, but I do dabble in blogging on Myspace, so how hard could it be? Just tell a story...okay, here goes.

I remember my first year at the University of Montana. I was actually attending the College of Technology at the time but that's beside the point. Actually, that does relate to the story so it is actually a part of the point. Anyways, back to the track I was on. Oh yeah, being a COT student I had to make the commute from Aber Hall to the COT East Campus everyday. Seeing as how I didn't have a car I had the always interesting delight of riding on the Mountain Line public transit system. This meant sometimes sitting around in one of those little bus huts for close to an hour waiting for a ride to or from campus. With this kind of time on your hands, you learn really quickly to always have something to read. And I found solace in the pages of the Montana Kaimin. I found particular solace every Wednesday when Luke Johnson's weekly column "Uncle Luke" was published. There was something addicting about Luke's crazy antics. His imagination crossed the bounds of the normalism that the other Kaimin writers had (yes I realize normalism is not a real word, but it just fits). I soon started telling the other girls on my floor about Luke's column. Pretty soon we would spend our Wednesday afternoons talking about "Uncle Luke's" latest column. I told myself that if I ever had the chance, I wanted to have my own "Uncle Luke" type of column. I wanted people to find joy and humor in my perception of this world we live in.

So when I saw the position of Student Blogger posted on the UM student employment website it was like the gates of heaven opened up, a choir of angels started singing, and God's voice rang down with "Annette, you should apply." (Okay, so it was actually my roommate's door opening up, his music playing in the background and him saying, "Yeah, that would be a cool job." But the whole heaven and angels thing sounded way better.)

As I thought more and more about the gig, I tried to think of 15 different things I could write about since there are 15 weeks in a semester after all. Here are some of the topics I came up with: Hiking the M, Griz Football, MontPirg, ASUM, The campus slackliners, John at LaPeak (maybe a bio or interview, everyone loves him), The pros and cons of living in each dorm, The Rolling Stones Concert (of course), Exploring the Drama/Dance department, What life is really like in the Greek system, and the list goes on. Can you imagine how many people would be learning about aspects of campus that they never would have even considered exploring if it hadn’t been for my blog? Now that's cool. Changing the world one blog at a time...I think Uncle Luke would be proud.