Sociological Mindfulness

In class we learned about the sociological imagination and sociological mindfulness. Having a sociological mindfulness means being aware of how the social world works and knowing how you can influence the world and those around you. During this week I have tried being sociologically mindful and it truly has made me more aware of those around me. What really stuck out to me in the reading was the idea that everyone is intertwined and because we are all humans, it is our responsibility to be aware of how what we do affects other people. We have all seen at some point how quickly one rumor or piece of gossip can travel around a group of people and truly crush a person's spirit. I believe this is part of what Schwalbe means by being sociologically mindful. Treating others right is treating our neighbors how we would want to be treated. Gossip can spread quickly, but kindness can spread just as fast.

Growing Up Online

    I agree with the fact that technology is here to stay, but I don't think everyone has to embrace every aspect of it . Our parents survived their adolecence without all the technology we have access to. But technology is around to make our lives easier if people use it the way it is intended. Its obvious that cell phones are a much faster way to conact someone than writing a letter is. The problem arises when technology becomes an obsession. I don't have a Facebook and many people have told me that it's good that I don't, but that makes me question why they have Facebooks in the first place if it's so good not to have one.
     Relating to school, I think we have no choice but to be taught about technology in order to be prepared for the careers we will be going into where technological knowledge is needed. You can't walk into a job without knowing how to use a computer. Doing this blogging in class is a way for us to get more familiar with computers and the internet while allowing us to voice our opinions in unique way. Blogging will help us inform others and be informed by the other members of the class. By applying the subjects we blog about to real life, it helps us connect to the material more than just memorizing it to pass a test.

Who Am I?

    I was born in California and used to live in Iowa before my family moved here.  My family goes to church every weekend and that is an important aspect of our lives. I feel very blessed with the family I've been given. At church I help out with the Junior High kids and the toddlers. I participate in track and cross country at Stevenson along with my twin sister. I enjoy running but I'm ready to be done with it competitively after this upcoming track season. I love the team and my favorite event is the 300 meter hurdles. I really like the practices, but the meets make me way too anxious. I am also a part of the Fellowship of Christan Athletes at Stevenson. I'm going to attend Iowa State with my sister next fall, a lot of my extended family has gone there so it's like a legacy in my family. The school is far enough away from home, but still near close relatives, that is one of the reasons why I chose it. At Iowa State I want to study veterinary medicine, but it's going to take eight years to get my degree, hopefully I can get through it.