Moraine Park German Exchange Program 2013

Hallo wie geht es dir? Which is hello, how are you in German. Last week Thursday fourteen German students arrived from Frankfort, Germany in Madison, Wisconsin. To kick off the new journey in Wisconsin, the German students were welcome by their host. I was excited to be hosting a German student for the third year in a row. Each time I learn new words, culture similarities and a priceless experience. On the first night I made dinner for my host Danjeil. The meal included a fresh hamburger, sweet potato fries, and a variety of local beers from Wisconsin. The first night was a huge success with my host. I could tell from day one that my host and I have similarities. I am looking forward meeting the other students to expand my connections in Germany. Although my German speaking is not the greatest, but I do plan on improving my conversation skills before the students leave. Until the next blog I will give you an inside look on the activities planned for the German students. Until then, Ciao! Cheers, Lee IV

Beaver Dam Noon Rotary

G’day Mates! Recently I was invited to be a guest speaker for the Beaver Dam Noon Rotary Club. Rotary members are community members who are committed to building communities and bridge continents internationally. They do a great job raising funds for different organizations big or small and helping those who are in need of help. During this meeting I was able to have lunch and meet members of the Beaver Dam area. After listening to what events they had lined up for the upcoming months I was able to introduce myself. I talked about why I attended Moraine Park Technical College and the benefits of going to a technical college. They were impressed with the amount of work I did with within two years. I will continue to inspire others and promote technical colleges because I feel the hands on techniques are one of a kind and the networking opportunities are huge. One of these days I plan on joining a rotary club because I believe in helping others and making a difference in somebody life. For more information about rotary club in your community you can go to www.roatary.org for additional questions or concerns. Well mates, I will see you soon! Cheers, Lee IV

MPTC Student Awards

G’day Mates! On May 3, I attended Moraine Park Technical College’s Student Award Banquet at Camelot Golf course in Lomira. Before the dinner kicked off I took pictures with President, Dr. Shelia Ruhland; Dean of Students, Scott Lieburn; and the next student ambassador, Mihai Schnell-Harrison. Shortly afterwards dinner kicked off, followed by the award ceremony. Students were recognized for their hard work in academics and being involved in different clubs. I received the Meritorious Service award. This award is for students who served the college through their leadership and participation in co-curricular activities. The next award I received was a clock plaque for finishing my term as Student Ambassador for the 2012-2013 school year. It was an honor to receive this award and was also a sign of passing the torch to the next Student Ambassador Mihai Schnell- Harrison. I can tell he will do great a great job in his term promoting the technical college system. The next big award was the Student of the Year. Tom Griesmer received the award and is graduating from the Electrical Power Distribution program. He gave an excellent speech about his experience during school and told us how Moraine Park Technical College helped him to peruse his career. After his award the ceremony was finish. It was a great night meeting students who I haven’t met before and eating with friends and members of Moraine Park Technical College. The next big event will be graduation day on May 18. I can see the finish line ahead and I am ready to cross the stage. Until then see you soon mates! Cheers, Lee IV

Student Life Last Blast

G’day Mates! To finish off the semester, student life hosted a Last Blast event. Last Blast is an event put together by students. Committee members vote on what kind of theme the event will be. On the Fond du Lac campus committee members decided to do a 50’s theme. Students on campus had the chance to win various prizes, play games, and take photos with friends. The cafeteria was decorated with jukebox photos, classic cars, and 50’s genre music. Along with all of these great things student life also invited James Wedgewood who is a Comic Ventriloquist. He is known around the country for his amazing work and participating in various events including weddings, casinos, colleges and more. Students had a great time laughing and eating a free lunch with friends, classmates, and staff members. Overall everything turned out great. This was a great event before finals and to finish off the semester. Until then I am counting down the days till graduation! Cheers, Lee IV

Job Search

G’day Mates! I hope you are all enjoying the crazy weather lately, but I am sure the real spring will be here soon. As I prepare myself to graduate on May 18, I am in awe how another graduation is approaching for me. I am excited to graduate, but now that means another step closer to reality and seeking a career. Over the past couple of months I have learned when applying for a position it is never too early to submit your application especially since the economy has been down over the past couple of years. The hiring rate is slowly increasing which means a lot more competition with other potentials people. I recommend you constantly update your résumé and edit to fit for the position. Since a lot of résumé are uploaded online, you want to make sure you have keywords that fit the descriptions of the job posting. This allows you to stand out from the others, and a step closer for interviews. One of the most important tips when searching a job is to expand your network with people. This tip would help you connect with people first hand, and have reliable references. Another way to get your name out there is by attending job and career fairs. These events allow you to speak with current workers of organizations to get an inside look of the lifestyle. If you feel a good vibe from speaking to the worker then that should be a place to apply. Even if you are not chosen, do not give up as there are other opportunities for different positions and companies. Below is a link I found that shares additional tips about entry-level jobs. If you have any questions I would love to hear them, until then my job search continues. “Never give up” http://www.experience.com/entry-level-jobs/jobs-and-careers/ Cheers, Lee IV

Ripon High School’s Career Fair

G’day Mates! Recently I visited Ripon High School’s Career fair as a guest speaker. Students had the option to choose which speakers they were interested to listen to about various career choices. I was able to share my experience about being a culinary student at Moraine Park Technical College. In both of my two sessions I had a full room filled with students. I started each session with a brief introduction of myself followed by questions from students and the teacher. They all had great questions for me and I was able to give them some quality feedback. Some of the questions I received included why I chose culinary arts, what inspired me to cook and about the pros and cons of working in the food industry. I enjoyed speaking to the students about my college experience; I like to inspire others to challenge their comfort zone and search the world. I am looking forward to more guest speaking events in the near future to share my knowledge with people. Cheers, Lee IV

New York City

G'day Mates! After spending a weekend in Boston, I headed to New York City do see what it had is store for me. Since I was young I was always fascinated about New York City because of all the films and television shows produced. I was determined to see what all the buzz was about to see if big dreams do come true. Of course since I like big cities I instantly knew NYC would be a unique city to visit. I recommend New York City for people who love the busy and crowded areas filled with thousands of people walking everywhere. If you are looking for history then NYC is the place to visit! NYC is also a city for people who love to eat! Besides the history and food, NYC has a lot of shops and sightseeing to choose from. To stay in shape I mainly walked around the city to embrace the Big Apple, and see things that cannot be seen from any public transportation. Here below are my top ten places to see or do in NYC. 1. Try the street vendor food 2. The Late Show with David Letterman 3. Madison Square Garden 4. Times Square 5. Radio City 6. Brooklyn Bridge 7. Central Park 8. Statue of Liberty 9. World Trade Center Memorial 10. Empire State Building Of course there are a lot more things to list, but this gives you a sample of the city. Just remember to bring a good pair of walking shoes, and have fun. Like always at any time there is an opportunity to travel or try something new do it. This will help you to find yourself and meet people around the world to learn different cuisines and cultures. Only you have the power to see the World, until next time book some trips and enjoy college. Cheers, Lee IV

Boston Ahoy

G'day Mates! As I stated in my previous blog I was going to write about my experience and share some useful tips about the Historical city of Boston. Heading out east I took my first train route to Boston. It takes longer to get to Boston on the train than an airplane, but it gives you the ability to see the back roads of America. After a twenty-two hour train ride from Chicago I arrived in Boston. I didn't know what to except, but I was excited to see some friends of whom I have not seen since four years ago when we went to Australia. I must say it was a great reunion, and having friends in different places saves on hotel stays, and getting an inside look of where to go. I would recommend visiting Boston if you like a young crowd, historical sites and seeing many attractions. Boston has a lot to offer based on location, schools and actually not as busy area compared to other big cities. I wouldn't want to spoil all the fun, but if you do plan on visiting Boston here are my top ten places to visit/things to do: 1. The Freedom Trail 2. Quincy Market 3. The Oyster House 4. Try a Boston Crème Pie 5. Fenway Park 6. USS Constitution Museum 7. JFK Museum 8. Boston Brewery Tours 9. Ride the {T} known as the Rail system 10. Visit the beautiful parks around the city If you have any questions please leave a comment, and I will share more! My next trip is heading off to New York City as known as the Big Apple! Cheers, Lee IV

College travels

G'day mates! As I finish my last semester at Moraine Park, I want to share a tip with you. When you’re in college you should take the opportunity to study aboard or travel as much as you can. Seeing the world when you are young and have fewer responsibilities can lead to great experiences. I’ve spoken to people who are older than me about traveling and they tell me that if they could do it over, they would choose to travel more. In my next couple of blogs, I am going to share with you my experience as I travel to Boston, New York City and New Jersey. So stay tuned! It’s going to be a fun voyage ahead! Cheers, Lee IV

Student Ambassador Update

My term as student ambassador has been a lot of fun. I have participated in many events inside and outside of school. This program has taught me how to be flexible, responsible and to set the bar high for the next student ambassador. With the connections I made with people in the community has lead me to my current project. I am the coordinator to relay information from the culinary club to Julie owner of Gallery & Frame Shop who runs the Art Walk Tour the Town in Fond du Lac. Her mission is to promote the arts, fine dining and entertainment in historic downtown Fond du Lac. My job has been getting the culinary club to sell fresh loaves of bread on the event night, which will help raise money for our fundraisers. I realize how fun it is to work with people personally and seeing an event expands into other opportunities. The date for the next Tour the Town event will be held on Friday, April 19th from 5-8 p.m. For additional information you can check out the website at http://www.tourthetownfdl.com/ If you have any questions please leave a comment! Cheers, Lee IV

March Madness

As February comes to an end, my favorite month March is here. March is my favorite month because there are a lot of fun events ahead. To name a few there is spring break, March Madness for College basketball, St. Patty’s Day, and of course my birthday. During the month of March I will be traveling to Boston, New York and New Jersey for a mini Australia reunion with friends I met four years ago. During this time I will have the opportunity to see the Big Apple and check out the East coast cuisines. Since I never have been out east before, this trip will enable me to see opportunities outside of the Midwest area. I will make sure I’ll share a lot of photos and tips for future references. Until then enjoy March and wear some green colors to share the love! Cheers, Lee IV

Ebony Vision Black History Event

As Moraine Park’s Ambassador I attended an event hosted by Ebony Vision at UW-Fond du Lac campus on February 11. Ebony Vision is an organization in Fond du Lac whose vision is to gain equal access everyday to overcome difference between humanity. This event celebrated and recognized the people who made a difference in society to help and improve equal rights. Organizations from Moraine Park Technical College, UW-Fond du Lac, and Marian University all came together to put this unique event together. During the celebration there was poetry, singing and dancing by people who were representing historical African-American leaders. Afterwards there was a potluck at Marian University. I was able to meet new people from the community from different organizations. Having the opportunity to network with them was priceless, knowing these people will help me to become more involved in the community to make a difference in people lives. After a long fun day I was glad I attended this event to celebrate diversity and community. To find more events from Ebony Vision check out the website at http://www.ebonyvisionfdl.org Cheers, Lee IV

School in Full Session

On the second day of classes Student Government put together a welcome back event for students and staff on the Fond du Lac campuses. The sponsored event consisted of a Trivia game and free lunch. Students and staff had the opportunity to have a free lunch with a student/staff I.D. and the chance to win some great prizes. The event kicked off with the audience answering random trivia questions to win cash or gift cards from various locations. In one round I volunteered to go up front to compete with other students about geography subjects. After a quick round of questions and answers, I won a gift card and I was really pumped. There were several other rounds where other students did whatever it took to win cash prizes. It was funny seeing all the mini games and competition people did to win. I had a lot of fun meeting some new people and seeing people who I haven’t seen since the winter break. To catch more events like this you can check out the calendar on myMPTC for events this semester. So don’t just sit there, come out to meet new people and have some fun. Plus who doesn’t like to win? Catch you soon! Cheers, Lee IV

Dr. MLK Breakfast

G'day mates; recently I had the opportunity to attend a community interfaith prayer breakfast at Marian University. This event was a remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr. dreams of the future. A lot of changes have occurred over the years, but it is up to us to continue the dream. As the student ambassador for MPTC, I was able to sit at a table with MPTC staff members such as President Dr. Sheila Ruhland, Scott Lieburn, Dr. Caron Daugherty, and Dr. Stanley Cram. We had an excellent time catching up for the new semester ahead. During this time I was able to speak to members of the community and alumni from Marian University. It is always a great time meeting new people and catching up with others. There is a lot of networking opportunities between the colleges in Fond du Lac and local businesses. I have learned anything is possible as long you put the right pieces in the right spots. During the breakfast there were several prayers told by various people. The overall message is we have to work together and put our differences a side to make a better world. Afterwards I was more encouraged to make a difference in people’s lives and the community. This event turned out really well, although the morning was below zero in temperature, but seeing smiling faces made it a better day. I am looking forward for more events like these. Cheers, Lee IV

New Year 2013

G'day Mates welcome to 2013, as we surpassed the Mayan calendar we are fully engaged into a brand new year. To kick off the new semester Moraine Park Technical College had new student orientation. Students were able to tour the college and get a glimpse for the new semester ahead by talking with faculty, staff, and current students. I helped out by volunteering for the student club segment of new student orientation. I represented the culinary club to talk to future students what the culinary club has prepared for the semester ahead. I was able to meet some people, answer any questions they had about club, and any questions related to Moraine Park. I felt the new student orientation turned out well and I am looking forward seeing some familiar faces at school. Remember to stay tuned for some unique fun event’s sponsored by Student Life. Catch you soon! Cheers, Lee IV

12-12-12 Last day of class

Well mates today mark off two special events. One in particular is 12-12-12 which is a once in a life appearance to see. Since today is a unique day a lot of people decided to get married, play the lottery, and do other superstitious things because they feel something lucky will occur. I am not superstitious, but I am looking forward to see if anything does happen on this day. Besides the unique date, today also marks off my last day of college at Moraine Park Technical College. I am in awe how fast my two years have gone at Moraine Park. I met a lot of people from students to staff members who made my journey here successful and fun. Although I will not have class next semester I will still be around checking out the fun events and serving in my role as Moraine Park Student Ambassador. Cheers, Lee IV

Economic Class

Recently in my economic class I brought in a guest speaker Josh from the owners of Slim & Chubby's in Fond du Lac which is located downtown on Main Street. We learned a lot of information that goes behind the scenes of running a tavern. It was a change of pace by having a guest speaker. At times economics is hard for me to understand because some of the terms used do not relate to my major. As Josh began using words that we could use to understand things, everything became a lot clearer. Real-life scenarios can make any topic easier to comprehend especially in the economic world. Afterwards we had a better understanding of why certain products in a tavern can cost more than a grocery store or another bar. Running any type of business has its pros and cons. The most important thing to remember about making a profit is that it does not happen overnight, and instead it takes time to grow. I am looking forward for other students in class to bring in guest speakers to talk about economics in other careers. Stay tuned for more exciting events as the semester is drawing to an end. Cheers, Lee IV

Culinary Arts Club Cookies Sale

Hello mates! I am letting you know that the Culinary Arts Club is selling 4 dozen assorted Christmas cookies for $8.00. Starting from December 9-13 we will be taking orders until everything runs out, so make sure you buy some tasty cookies which are great for friends and family as well. You can purchase cookies by the cafeteria and there will be somebody there to assist you. This fundraiser will support funds for our culinary club which benefits our trips to the Food Show in Chicago and our German Exchange program. I hope you get a chance to purchase some and support our group! Cheers, Lee IV

Hello December

Wow can you believe it is the last month of 2012? I can remember it being the start of the year back in January like it was yesterday. Since it is December it means two things; school is coming to an end for the semester, and winter break is near! Everything feels surreal because I'll be done with school soon and the real world agenda is near as well. Until then I am going to enjoy the rest of the semester and cherish every moment of it. Besides school events I am looking forward for snow and the New Year ahead. So sit back and welcome to a brand new month! Cheers, Lee IV

November Review

Well mates November has come and gone. Just like the previous months’ time keeps on flying by within a blink of an eye. Just in case you forgot what happened in November here is a brief summary. The month kicked off with the Presidential Election Day, which was an intense campaign event. Fox 11 news came to Moraine Park to do a live segment in the culinary arts department about Thanksgiving tips and ideas. There were several meetings for student senate including the District Student Government meeting, regarding future plans and events for school. Another fun event was my first Turkey Trot 5 mile run on Turkey Day. Of course Black Friday shopping, but instead I took a small trip to Milwaukee to hang out with my friends. Last but not least all the fun events Student Life put together such as casino day and bingo day which included awesome prizes for people to win. I had a great time in November, but I must keep pushing through as the end of the semester is near. Now let the December fun begins! Cheers, Lee IV