SERVE-ing the Community

 

This past Saturday, August 28^th, the University of Virginia held its annual event known as Project SERVE.  Hoping to introduce first-years here on grounds to new friends, the community, and the chance to help others, Project SERVE allows UVa student volunteers to take part in a variety of activities throughout Charlottesville.  One main focus of Project SERVE is to “to introduce participants to local community service agencies and to the Charlottesville community” (Orientation and New Student Programs…).

With more than twenty-seven various service opportunities, students were able to sign up at the beginning of the previous summer until this past Saturday.  Participants could volunteer in activities such as landscaping at Venable Elementary School, sorting food donations and clothing at the Charlottesville Salvation Army, or simply socializing with residents of the local retirement community at the Martha Jefferson House.  With such a variety of choices, any student here on grounds could find a volunteering opportunity that most interested them.   

The event turned out as a great success.  One particular group helped paint a house for a local school teacher who could not afford the renovations that she needed.  Students around campus described the day as “a fun, good time filled with meeting new people”.  Not only were they provided a free breakfast and lunch in thanks for helping the community, students were rewarded through their experiences of contributing towards Charlottesville and acting as an active student body.   

President Sullivan Speaks on Responsibility

This Sunday at St. Paul’s Memorial Church Sunday, University President Teresa Sullivan delivered a sermon about responsibility and creating a more ‘caring community’. In order to discuss these issues, Sullivan has set up a Day of Dialogue for September 24, where the community will come together to discuss issues such as safety and violence prevention. On grounds there are plenty of student organizations that are concerned with safety such as the ‘Safety and Wellness Committee’ of the UVa Student Council and ‘Hoos Ready’ which campaigns for emergency preparedness but due to the recent violence in Charlottesville, safety has become one of the new president's priorities. Sullivan’s message was well summed up by her final words, “Let’s promise to take responsibility for each other. Let’s promise to show hospitality and kindness to everyone around us."

A Safer Community on and Off Grounds

Starting today, UVA will be beginning its new initiative that requires all students to self-report criminal records and history of arrest to the University.  To ensure that the entire student body completes the form, each student will be prompted to enter this information when logging in to his/her UVA email, and failure to do so within a week’s time results in deactivation of the email account. This safety measure is being implemented as a result of University student Yeardly Love’s death this spring. Her alleged murderer, a fellow student at UVA, had a criminal record that the school was not aware of at the time of the investigation. Though launching the process has taken longer than expected, the University of Virginia has issued a statement reiterating that the delay is not caused by a technical problem, but instead testing of the program.

The benefits of the school’s efforts are well worth the wait. Not only will University officials be more informed when investigating issues on grounds, but the increased transparency between the University and its students will aid the Charlottesville community as well. Should the Charlottesville police department need to investigate crimes in the city that may have been committed by University students, the new database of information may allow for increased efficiency in resolving the issue. The reporting process is rolling, and will take place over the next few days.

Return from Controversy

George Allen, who once lit up a media frenzy for his use of the racial
slur “macaca” is preparing to take the spotlight once more in 2012.
Having had a prominent career as Virginian governor, senator, and a
likely presidential nominee, Allen lost his Senate seat to Jim Webb in
2006 due to his controversial remark and decided in 2009 to not
re-seek his position as governor. Allen’s time out of the media has
not been for naught, however, as analysts predict his return to
politics by battling Webb once again for the Senate seat. Currently
there seems to be no other Republican candidate that would be able to
take the nomination from him. Even now, polls place Allen slightly
ahead of Webb. These results likely stem from the low approval ratings
of Obama and the Democrats controlling Congress, coupled with the fact
that Webb is a strong advocate of Obama’s programs. Simply put,
perhaps Allen’s fall in 2006 was not as damaging as previously
thought.

"Allen vs. Webb Part Deux?" C-VILLE Charlottesville's News & Arts
Weekly | Charlottesville VA News Music Culture Dining. Web. 30 Aug.
2010. .

Greetings!

Hey everyone, my name is Margaret Bickley, and I am from Marietta, GA. UVA has been my dream school ever since middle school, and I can't believe I am actually here in Charlottesville for the next 4 years studying along side ya'll. While my main priority is nursing, I am very interested in trying new things in college like swing or salsa dancing, outdoor excursions, and theater involvement. Back home I spent my free time painting, baking and decorating cakes, and running. I value family and friendship- I have a twin sister here at UVA as well and she is the best.

The reason I signed up for a USEM was to have an intimate learning experience with other 1st years, and I can't wait to meet and grow closer to all of you!

The First Night

Saturday, August 21 was one of the most exciting days as a first year arriving to the University of Virginia. Among the many exciting events that day was the B.o.B concert in the John Paul Jones Arena. That concert signified the University's first event as whole. Aside from solely, first, second, third or fourth years, all grades were there in support of ringing in the new academic year with as much enthusiasm as possible. The night started out with all of us first years from Cauthen bustling to the arena as fast as we could in order to get the best seats. I of course was just following the crowds with no awareness of where I was. Then I suddenly noticed something very familiar in contrast to the foreign setting. As I was crossing the Copeley Road Bridge, I notice a familiar, highly publicized shrine. I could not believe it. Morgan Harrington was abducted in the same location that I was standing in. With large crowds and a noisy atmosphere I could not fathom how such a lively place was the scene of such a private occurrence. Seeing that shrine really hit me because it made me realize that what happened to Morgan could have happened to me or anyone else. Morgan actually went to my high school in Roanoke, Virginia. Although I did not personally know her I have an older friend that was best friends with her. While I was on Copeley Bridge, I thought about all the memories my friend had told me about Morgan and how lively she was. Then, I sort of woke up and realized Morgan was not here anymore and that this shrine that I was staring at, was her last documented location of life. As first years, we are all excited to break out of our parents' leashes and explore the world on our own terms. Although we are all entitled to having a fun time at UVA, we all need to be smart about where we go, who we are with and what we do. None of us want to be the victim of another heartless murder. In response to Morgan Harrington's murder, state and local police have used forensic evidence to find a link between Morgan's death and an abduction and rape in 2005, according to the Cavalier Daily. The University of Virginia took the responsibility to discuss safety and security to the incoming students so that the past year's incidences do not repeat. When I look back on the first night I spent at the University of Virginia, I think of the collective group of students that bonded over the first night at UVA for the 2010-2011 year. If as a collective group of UVA students, we all banded together and looked out for each other, I think that we would significantly lower the risk of any unfortunate event occurring at UVA.  And if a city, state, country or even the world did this, that would be one infrangible bond.   -Mina Asghari

Introduction

Hi, my name is Jeffrey Ahn and I moved to Charlottesville from Fairfax. I like playing a lot of sports though I don’t do it regularly and currently have no idea what my major is going to be. I intend to study pre-med and have never actually blogged before. I sure do hope it turns out to be fun.

Hi

My name is Meg Carpenter. I am from Charlottesville Virginia but I was born in Southern California. I am currently in the School of Architecture here at UVA. I came to Charlottesville when I was ten years old and am really glad with the move because I love seeing the seasons change. Having snow outside my front door is a new phenomenon for me. I enjoy soccer and volleyball and hope to become involved in soccer and other clubs here at UVA. Even though I am from Charlottesville, the UVA grounds seem like a whole new world to me, which is ironic because I live about twenty miles away. So I'm learning more about what is in my backyard.

About Mina Asghari :)

Hi Everyone!My name is Mina Asghari and I am originally from Overland Park, KS, which is about 20 minutes outside Kansas City. I noticed that there was another person from Kansas City, so that is really cool. Anyways, I moved to Roanoke, VA about 3 years ago. I love Virginia, it is definitely different from the flat land I grew up on. In high school I was on the swim team. Breaststroke is my favorite! I was also involved with many clubs, as I am sure many of you all were. Right now I am Pre-Comm. I would like to concentrate in International Business and Marketing. 

Paint the Town Orange

            The student body and the community of Charlottesville are surely gearing up for this weekend’s kickoff of the 2010 UVa football season. First years like myself are in eager anticipation of their first game as a Wahoo. Upperclassmen are hopeful of a “new era” in UVa football under new head coach, Mike London. Speaking of London, the emotions surrounding his first game as head coach on the Virginia sideline are surely heightened considering who will be occupying the opposing benches. London led Richmond to the championship game of the NCAA D1 Football Subdivision the past two seasons, winning the game in 2008 with a 24-5 record over that span. However, this will not be the first time London has donned the UVa colors, having been on the Cavs coaching staff during two separate periods before signing on as coach of the Spiders. No matter how you slice it expectations are high for London and his squad going into this season. The last couple seasons under Al Groh have been sub-par to say the least, going 8-16 since losing to Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl after the 2007 season. On top of that some of the biggest games this season will be played right on our own turf including #20 Florida State, #18 North Carolina, and #13 Miami. Despite all the unknowns, one thing is certain: London and his team will need the support of both the UVa and C-ville communities to fill the 61,500-seat stadium Hoos call home in order to win this season, starting with Richmond week one.  Kickoff for this Saturday’s game at Scott Stadium is 6PM. (All numbers and records were compiled through Wikipedia’s page on Virginia Cavaliers football.)-MA

Paint the Town Orange

The student body and the community of Charlottesville are surely gearing up for this weekend’s kickoff of the 2010 UVa football season. First years like myself are in eager anticipation of their first game as a Wahoo. Upperclassmen are hopeful of a “new era” in UVa football under new head coach, Mike London. Speaking of London, the emotions surrounding his first game as head coach on the Virginia sideline are surely heightened considering who will be occupying the opposing benches. London led Richmond to the championship game of the NCAA D1 Football Subdivision the past two seasons, winning the game in 2008 with a 24-5 record over that span. However, this will not be the first time London has donned the UVa colors, having been on the Cavs coaching staff during two separate periods before signing on as coach of the Spiders. No matter how you slice it expectations are high for London and his squad going into this season. The last couple seasons under Al Groh have been sub-par to say the least, going 8-16 since losing to Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl after the 2007 season. On top of that some of the biggest games this season will be played right on our own turf including #20 Florida State, #18 North Carolina, and #13 Miami. Despite all the unknowns, one thing is certain: London and his team will need the support of both the UVa and C-ville communities to fill the 61,500-seat stadium Hoos call home in order to win this season, starting with Richmond week one. Kickoff for this Saturday’s game at Scott Stadium is 6PM. (All numbers, rankings, and records were compiled through Wikipedia’s page on Virginia Cavaliers football.)

Hey

Hi, my name is Baylee Molloy and I came to UVA from Woodbridge, VA. My dad is in the U.S. Air Force so my family and I move around quite frequently. Before Virginia I was living overseas in Kiev, Ukraine, where I began learning Russian and became very interested in international relations. I also became a very active volunteer with a mission group that had established many projects in Krevoy Rog, Ukraine. I am very passionate about the mental hospital there called Bory Oogly and continue to raise funds for their needs. To continue with other service projects I am interested in joining the Madison House. Along with community service I love to play soccer and hope to play for the girls club team here at UVA. I cannot wait to get more involved in the community of UVA and Charlottesville!

About Me

My name is John and I am from Northern Virginia. I played lacrosse in high school and I hope to play club or intramural here at UVA.  I live in Kellogg, which is a new dorm with air conditioning and elevators.  So far Charlottesville has been a lot of fun and everyone I meet is friendly.  If you want to know any more about me don't hesitate to ask.

Hello

Hi, I'm Ephraim Chaney, I'm from Kansas City. I'm one of the few people from my high school who decided to go to college outside of Kansas, and I'm excited to meet new people here. UVa seems to be really involving and challenging, which is great. I ran track and cross country and will probably run with a club team here at UVa. I love sports, especially baseball, and I also enjoy politics/current affairs, reading mysteries and music (anything except country). I came to UVa to study architecture... it's fitting since it was founded by a great architect. I'm a pretty laid-back person and am looking forward to a great year.

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Hi, my name is Nick Berman from London, UK.

Hello

Hi, I'm Ephraim Chaney, I'm from Kansas City. I'm one of the few people from my high school who decided to go to college outside of Kansas, and I'm excited to meet new people here. UVa seems to be really involving and challenging, which is great. I ran track and cross country and will probably run with a club team here at UVa. I love sports, especially baseball, and I also enjoy politics/current affairs, reading mysteries and music (anything except country). I came to UVa to study architecture... it's fitting since it was founded by a great architect. I'm a pretty laid-back person and am looking forward to a great year.

Hello, my name is Michael (or Mike) Werling. I, like all of you, am a first year student at UVA. I am from Northern Virginia near the Woodbridge area and I went to Freedom High School. I was in the Drama and Forensics programs at my school. I was a two time District All Star cast award winner and in 2009 I came in 8th place in the entire state of Virginia in the Forensics tournament. I was also in the Peer Diversity "A World of Difference" program which promote tolerance for all people regardless of race or sex. I am also an Eagle Scout and have worked at a Boy Scout Camp in the Summer teaching scouts about knot tying and wilderness survival. I hope to have a great time in this class and get closer to the city and the university.

hello

Hey I'm Johnny and I'm from Allendale, NJ; a suburb about 45 minutes outside NYC. There aren't too many people from my area here, but I do know of a few. As of now I'm in the College and I hope to major in Commerce and joining a few clubs around the University. In high school I played football and lacrosse and I look forward to following those teams here at UVA. I also plan on trying out for the club lacrosse team. I'm excited to learn more about Charlottesville and the University as a whole in this seminar.

Hey! My name is Sarah Salinas, and I'm from Houston, TX. I'm a first year at UVa which means I know not to say "freshman" but everything else is new to me! I'm living in pops-Echols, and I love UVa so far. I really like traveling, running, and cooking. Although I miss Texas, I'm excited to be living at UVa and in Charlottesville because it seems that there is so much to do! I don't have many special talents, but I would love to learn to walk on a tightrope... I just decided that this morning. My family is awesome: my dad is from Texas and my mom is Scottish which means I am proudly both a British and U.S. citizen. I don't know where my career at UVa will take me, but for now I'm hoping to study micro-financing.

Hey guys, my name is Alexis Thurmond. I'm from Northern Virginia, and I'm really excited to be going to school here. I went to Bishop Ireton, a medium-sized Catholic school in Alexandria, Virginia. I made a lot of lifelong friends there, and I hope to make many more here at UVA. I'm planning to major in biology, and I want to go on to medical school. Years from now, I hope to be a pediatrition specializing in oncology. I love playing sports, spending time with friends, and watching movies. I'm interested in many topics ranging from politics to celebrity gossip! I hope to keep everyone entertained with my blogs. I look forward to posting :)

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Hey, I'm Mia Williams from Beltsville, MD!

hey!

hey! I'm Amy Baker from Centreville, VA

Hi

Hey guys, I'm Mimi Pham and I am from Roanoke, Virginia. I am currently undecided but I may look into neuroscience as a major. I am also interested in philosophy, math, and pre-med. I have played varsity volleyball in high school and attended the Roanoke Valley Governor's School. Something new that I would like to try is the debate club at UVA to improve on my arguing skills. I enjoy witty sarcasm, although I suck at being funny. I was born in Vietnam, but I moved to the U.S. when I was three, so I've basically grew up in the states my whole life.

Hi I'm Emily!

Hey

It's Matt from Park Ridge, IL (suburb of Chicago). I'm probably going to major in math and minor in econ or poli sci. I like to golf, play volleyball, and watch Chicago sports. I played trombone in high school. I like to read different books, but mainly political thrillers. I like mostly all types of music, especially classic rock (Van Halen, Journey, ACDC, etc.). I watch different shows on ESPN and some of my favorite non-sports TV is Seinfeld, 30 Rock, Rules of Engagement, and Modern Family. In terms of movies, you gotta love The Hangover, pretty much any Will Ferrell movie, the "Ocean's" trilogy, and the Dark Knight. Politically I lean right of center, but I consider myself pretty pragmatic. I'm lookin forward to a great first year at UVa and a fun semester in this class!

Hello

Hi, It's Ephraim from Kansas City

Introduction

Hey there, my name is Eric. I'm a first-year here at UVA, living in Humphreys on McCormmick Road, and I'm in the CLAS. Not sure what my major is going to be yet, but I'll figure that out later.

I'm from Pittsburgh, PA, always repping the 412. I haven't met any other kids from Pittsburgh, but it's kind of nice being immersed in a completely new environment. I went to a large, inner city, public high school where I played tennis and golf. Hopefully I'll keep them both up recreationally during my time here.

Not sure if this is relevant, and it may sound like a pointless reason, but I'm taking this Community, Engagement, and Democracy course here because I feel like, being at a university founded by Thomas Jefferson, I owe it to him or to his legacy or to something to take a class relating to democracy and community, seeing as he was so influential in establishing both here in the United States.

Anyway, I'm excited to be here and I'm looking forward to this semester.

Welcome (and about this blog)!

This blog is part of a first-year undergraduate seminar (USEM) at the University of Virginia. The class, "Community, Engagement, and Democracy" aims to stimulate a deeper understanding of what it means to be in a community, how we engage a community, and the role of political and civic institutions in that community.

This blog serves as a place for students to ponder what it means to be a part of the UVA and Charlottesville communities, to better understand the relationship between the university and the city, and for students to foster an appreciation of both communities.

It is also a hyper-local blog focused on the interplay between the city and the university, fostering dialog across the two.

We're cross-listed on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cville-to-Hooville/137099616329444.