Video Blog

There are several things which come to mind about this video:

Although the behavior by some people is shocking, it possibly could be explained by two main factors. First and foremost a general lack of understanding of the differences and similarities between cultures and the personal choice of religion. Secondly, I think the post 9/11 conflicts have spotlighted the Muslim community in America. This occurred during WWII with the Japanese Americans, and is sadly a consequence of war back on the home front.

I see the label of an American being viewed with two different worldviews. One being, the idea of the 1950’s household-traditional white husband and wife with a couple of kids and a two car garage. Anyone who does not match up with their standards are not “real” Americans.

The other worldview in the video is one that more understands who Americans are-all of us. The United States is made up of so many different races, religions and people groups. The fact that one nation has been able to over time integrate such a variety of people into our society is testament to the success of the American Experiment.  

The video also showed that there are people who are willing to stand up for what is right. They did this by not shopping at the store, becoming vocal against the store owner, and joining the woman to show solidarity. The most encouraging aspect of this experiment was the fact people, who did not know each other, stood up for their common man.

But on the other side of this experiment-the majority of people stood by and did nothing. This can be seen in many situations in history. This is why having moral leadership in your community or organization is crucial. Only a few were willing to take a stand, and they are your true leaders. Anyone can “lead” during the easy days- leadership occurs when no one else is willing or able to bear responsibility and at times public scrutiny to lead others.

“The surest way for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” –Edmund Burke

Pictures:

Assessments Blog

During our time in BLF we have taken quite a few self-assessments, challenges and encountered unique situations few students ever get the opportunity to experience.  Because of all the self-assessments we have taken part of I have become more self-aware on my strengths and areas which I need to account for when building a project team.  Through every experience I learned to be more aware of my surroundings with people with different backgrounds.

With the experience of the challenges and the assessments I think it’s safe to say that my perception of leadership has not changed, but has been developed and enhanced. Leaders in the 21^st Century have to be more than bold and charismatic, they need to be adaptable and understanding of other cultures.

There are two different types of education, know what-and know how. Know what education is based on learning facts and information for a class. We may us this information if it specific to our career, but otherwise the knowledge will be little more than trivia. Know how education is based on learning basic skills then applying those skills in real world application in a changing environment.

I think BLF if based on understanding know how education model and is the best way to set ourselves apart from our peers in the workplace. Having the freedom to make decisions and mistakes with few rules or guidelines is the best way to challenge ourselves. The program allows creativity to become a core skill which is greatly needed in any workplace. I am thankful for the opportunity to take the assessments which have helped me to express my strengths to future employers. The challenges develop creativity, leadership and time management skills. Both the self-assessments and the challenges have gone hand in hand to help me develop and prepare for post college employment.

Jack

Combined Balance and Happiness:

Considering the similarity I have chosen to combine the two posts into one. The fall semester was a difficult term academically and personally. The days were long and the nights were short. While most people enjoyed a summer break, I had Officer Candidate School with the Marine Corps all summer long. This was the most stressful time of my life-bar none. I returned to campus on Monday and we started classes on Wednesday, so there was really no time off. With my responsibilities in other organizations and work, class material was tough to stay up to speed on.

 To make through the semester, I learned to manage stress and enjoy the little things in life. I accepted everything will not be perfect, so do you best-then just keep moving. During the week, I would go to the gym nearly every day first thing in the morning. This would allow me time to free my mind, and relieve some stress. Then on the weekends, if possible I would drive home. I find value in solitude. I enjoy leaving Columbus and campus behind for a little while. It allows be to spend some time with my family and reset for the week ahead.

Living life to the fullest brings me happiness. My life’s goal thus far has been to become a Marine Office. August 4^th my dream becomes reality. I enjoy helping people in need. Not just in a socioeconomic sense, but when a friend or family member needs help with a task or project. I feel a sense of reward that comes from helping people. I guess that’s why I joined the Marine Corps.

“Some people wonder all their lives if they've made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem.”- President Ronald Regan

BLF Leadership Vlog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hP2bhL2wxY&feature=g-upl

Click on the link to see my video.

Jack

Perception of Leadership

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRMZv_wVLOE&feature=g-upl

Click on the link to see my video.

Jack

BLF Weekend Retreat

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnxehiG0mzI&feature=plcp

Mentorship

Over the last several years, I have had opportunities to be a mentor to others. Starting with serving in church children’s programs and now I am assisting new applicants to the United States Marine Corps officer selection process.  I do my best to share my experiences and lend advice as needed. I understand it’s not a large impact that I’m making, but I am always happy to help someone who has questions.

With the Marine Corps, I help with physical training, general military customs and courtesy and academic preparations for their start of training at Officer Candidate School. I want to help new applicants prepare for the challenges that they will face, so they will be more successful during training.

Through the BLF challenge last fall and our involvement with the Veterans in the OSU Veterans House. Through that challenge I have stayed on and have continued to assist with raising support.  James Miller has become a mentor to me and has assisted in the development of my leadership style.  This cause has led to my position in USG as a committee deputy director.  I have been hosting networking luncheons and receptions for corporate executives and student veterans make meaningful connections that can a make a difference in their careers. This mentorship has allowed me to have new can challenges as an undergrad that I would not have the opportunity to have otherwise.

I think in the most basic sense, a mentorship is just investing your time and resources to assist another person grow professionally or and personally through advice and opportunities to push yourself and grow into a better person. I have been a benefactor of mentorships, and enjoy even in having a small role, being a mentor in order to make a difference in someone’s life.

Jack