New Opportunities and Conclussions

It's about to be 2014, a whole new year and the start of a new experience for the incoming students. Now is a chance for those just starting to take the first steps to achieving their goals. Enrolling at Sullivan is a great start. You are not treated like a number, the small class sizes and availability of resources puts Sullivan above the rest. During registration, I had a chance to talk to some of the new graduate school students who we're going after MBA's and Masters of Human Resources, and there were several from U of L and UK. That shows that rather than stay there, they wanted what Sullivan has to offer, and that is a strong statement.
For those of us that have been here for a while, it's a good time to reflect on where we are now versus where we were at the beginning. We have all taken steps towards our future and learned more than we planned. Whether you're a new student or are returning, have a fun and safe New Years and we'll see you next week!

Brian

Labyrinth Walk

What college student does not feel stressed or overloaded from time to time?  For situations like these, and more, Sullivan University has a great Student Wellness Center.  One opportunity sponsored by the Wellness Center is The Labyrinth Walk, which emphasizes the release of tension.  The Labyrinth provides a relaxing atmosphere to which students may come to unwind.  Historically (over 4000 years old), a labyrinth was a maze-like structure that symbolized the journey of life.  The path into the center of the structure encourages self-reflection.  Then the path leads the participant back out in to the world with a better understanding of self and serenity. 

Labyrinth Walks are held at least once per quarter at Sullivan University, usually around mid-terms.  All students and faculty are welcome to come and take advantage of the relaxing environment, community support, and free refreshments!  A representative from Back, Body, and Beyond Chiropractic is available to accurately measure your level of tension before and after your Labyrinth experience.

Feel free to take advantage of these free services at Sullivan University.  Contact Dr. Renee, Wellness Director, for more information!

Hayley Charron

Great Fall Weather

It's a great time of year as the weather cools off and the leaves and schedule of sunlight changes, but it also makes it really hard to get out of bed. Now that Sullivan is an attendance taking school, there are only so many times to hit that snooze button. Now many of the teachers understand that life can get hectic and there may be times that we just can't get to class, but all we have to do is email the instructor if there is a good reason for missing class. A sick child, an unexpected work schedule, a medical or family emergency, the instructors will work with you to make sure you don't fall behind.
The further we go into the fall and winter season, the more likely that weather is going to cause some delays or even cancelling of classes, so be sure to sign up for the Dean's Alert System on your Sullivan Portal, it is under the Communications tab and the Emergency and Weather link. You can get text messages or voicemails to let you know if classes are cancelled, rather than driving to the campus.

Have a safe and happy quarter!

Brian

Graduation

The Graduation ceremony is in less than two weeks and I am very excited about wearing my cap and gown. I am especially excited that I was offered a job last week! All my hard work has paid off, all the networking I have done, and the contacts I have build with people in my profession. The skills I have learned in my professional development class have been a huge help at selling myself to prospective employers. I can only encourage everyone to take this class seriously and to accept the help the teachers are offering, they know what they are doing. If you follow their advice, you have made a huge step in the right direction. I was prepared for certain questions, I had perfected my resume, and I knew what to expect from an interview. I was told that there are so many candidates who can not write a good cover letter, or have resumes that look unprofessional. Do invest some time in creating your resume. Print it on good paper, it looks so much better. I received compliments for my resume paper (in fact, they told me that nobody seems to use it anymore, but they loved it, so it made mine stand out).

When I first started, I wondered how hard it would be to find a job. But now I know that Sullivan is a school with a great reputation, and that employers love to hire graduates from here.

I want to wish everyone good luck for their journey, mine was a great one, and the best part is just starting.

Claudia

Going Forward

Coming to the end of the Associate level programs and not sure if you want to continue? There's a lot of decisions to be made at that point, are you able to find a career you want? Will you need more education to move forward in that career?
Those questions really boil down to this one question... how much do you want to invest in yourself? It is a commitment to further your education, in both time and energy. Education requires some sacrifice, both personally and professionally.
While you are considering whether or not to go forward beyond the Associates level, think about the goals you have and what you want out of life. Also take a look at the possibilities that come with a Bachelors or Masters degree, and what does the current job market want from you? Who are you competing against and what sort of education do they have?
It's up to you on how far you want to go, you are the only person who measures your own success.

Brian

What a Year!!!

        The title says it all! I can't believe September is coming to a close and we're reaching October!!  This year has whizzed by!!  I am finally putting my Culinary degree to use and it's been so fun!
     
        Over the past few weeks, I've done two dinner parties.  The last one was for my husband's birthday! Everyone had a good time and enjoyed the food.  I posted the menu and pictures below!

Dinner Menu 

Appetizer: 

Roasted Shrimp Salad on Toasted Crostini 

Salad Course: 

Sweet Kale, accompanied with Chicory, Cabbage, Broccoli and Brussel Sprouts; bathed in a Mango-Lime Vinaigrette; 

topped with Spiced Walnuts and Goat Cheese 

 Main Course: 

Beef Tenderloin topped with Roquefort Pecan Butter, Roasted Sweet Paprika Potatoes and Crispy Lemon Crumbed Broccolini 

Dessert: 

Strawberry-Lemon Parfait with Brown Sugar Pound Cake 

Alona Beasley-Jenkins

PEOPLE SKILLS!

As I am nearing the end of my Hospitality Management degree, I have been fearful of the strenuous work load.  I recently met with a mentor chef who has been in my position, and we discussed the details of each course I have left.  In doing so, I was able to "map out" my last few quarters at Sullivan.  I will take similar classes concurrently, and I will not be as overwhelmed with expectations.

My classes this quarter are all focused on PEOPLE!  As a chef, my focus is centered more around the food the people eat, rather than the people themselves.  I am eager to develop better people skills, especially in a managerial sense.

• My online class is Human Resources Development in the Hospitality Industry, which discusses the issues regarding a company's HR Department.  I am particularly looking forward to learning the specific laws and guidelines for employee relations.
• My daytime class is The Manager as a Negotiator.  This course details negotiation strategies, which are used more than one would think.  Whether you are buying a new car, discussing stipulations with a potential business partner, or trying to get your 13-year-old son to clean his room, negotiations are everywhere.  You just have to be aware of the situation at hand, learn information about the other parties involved, and be able to use this knowledge to come to an agreement.  
• Lastly, my nighttime class is Organizational Behavior, which studies the characteristics of an company as a function of individual or interpersonal behavior.  In other words, this course discusses how people interact within the business world.

As I grow within the hospitality industry as a chef, I am learning that I cannot hide behind the food I create.  I have to establish a persona of success and character.  The only way to do that is through people: my superiors, my business partners, my employees, and, most importantly, my guests.  I aim to make "work" my passion, and it is important to emit that passion to each person I encounter.  These classes and my every day experiences at Sullivan University allow to to gradually build these necessary skills.

Hayley Charron

NEW TEAM, NEW CHALLENGE

 

This year will be unique for me. I have made the culinary team for the second year, which is great! None of the members from last year are on the team due to graduation, externships, and personal choice. I have a whole new group of people to get into a fun and also stressful season of practicing knife skills and hot dishes. It is always fun to get to know new people. I am also the only one who has done competitions, so I can share my experiences and knowledge with them.

The extra challenge this year is that I am in a different program now. I graduated with my associates, and have now continued on to B.S.B.A., which does not require me to be near the labs. The puzzle to be solved for this quarter will be to get into a good schedule that allows me to keep up on my academic responsibilities, as well as my team duties. I need to play a leadership role with the team to help guide this new group of chefs, who have many questions.
 
Ironically enough, since my bachelors degree is focused on management and leadership, I have actually been learning the very tools I need to make this work. since I have already learned the skills that I need for team, I can have more of a focus on grooming my team mates. I have a few plans to implement schedules and organize information, so that everyone has access to the things they need to do great at regionals next April. I feel like this is not only a great challenge, but a chance to practice the skills I am currently learning.

Kamisha Jones

Coming to an End

The quarter is coming to an end, finals are coming up, papers and projects are being finished. Next quarter is my last quarter in the associates program and start of the bachelors, I've been surprised how fast the time has gone. I've learned a lot in the classes and now it's time to take that knowledge and take the next step.

Now the time has come to visit the Career Services department, see what sort of opportunities they have. I've seen the postings outside the cafe, but there is more available through the office. If you're coming to the end of your program, be sure to stop by and talk to them. It's not just job opportunities, the Career Services also helps with interview practices, tweaking resumes and cover letters. 

With a degree, the chance to start a career is wide open. Not just in one field, but several, because the theories and concepts from the classes at Sullivan can be applied to several fields. Keep that in mind as you go through your job hunt, don't limit yourself and be willing to explore alternatives to your career path.

Brian S.

iStudiez Pro, $2.99

I don't normally rant and rave about smartphone applications but I have stumbled upon one that is amazing for school purposes.  Juggling school, work, family, and a social can be difficult.  Before each quarter, I buy a new planner to keep track of all of my assignments, papers, tests, and other obligations.  I utilize this organization for a couple weeks, and then my planner gets buried under notes, papers, and tests, and I lose track of the progress.  A good friend of mine, who used to encounter the same problem, recently made me aware of an app she uses constantly: iStudiez Pro.

This application is available through iTunes, which means it is applicable on any Mac product, iPhones, iPads, or iPods.  You start with the "Planner" tab, which allows you to enter your semesters (or quarters), holidays or breaks, and instructors (full contact information).  You may then add courses to your semesters; you can even color-code each class!  From there, you can add assignments, tests, projects, and papers to each course.  Each task can then be viewed in the "Assignments" tab.

(One of my favorite parts about this app is that the "Assignments" tab is laid out as a checklist.  When you complete an item and check it off, it goes into the "Completed" tab.  You can go back through and see everything you've accomplished each term!)

By selecting a day, you can view any expected obligations.

Once the desired information is entered, the application system automatically organizes your "Calendar" tab.  Set up similarly to the Calender app on iPhones, iPads, and iPods, this tab lays out each month.  You can enter other information, such as work schedules, upcoming events, and birthdays.

When you have customized your iStudiez Pro, each time you open the app, you will be prompted with your "Today" tab.  Each expected task will be listed.  You can select any task to view the details.  However, when you have the fortunate day off, free of any plans or expectations you receive this motivational message:

Although this app is $2.99, I have found that it is well-worth the purchase.  There is also a "Lite" version that is free.  It keeps me in check, informs me of all my tasks, and offers a sense of gratification that I don't usually get from using an actual planner or agenda book.  Plus, I always have iStudiezPro with me!

Hayley Charron

Applying what you have learned

I am going to keep posting in the spirit of my two fellow ambassadors: applying what I have learned in class during my internship.
 

So far I have been able to apply concepts and theories that I have learned in class during my internship. I have used my research skills, and my word processing skills. Of course, another important skill I have learned is applying my knowledge to facts and drawing conclusions from it.
 

We are always taught that we don't learn for school and grades, but that we are learning for life. I can definitely say that the degrees at Sullivan do a great job preparing us for real life and real jobs, and that they ate helping us mastering a wide array of situations and tasks. And even the things we did not learn in class we can master by applying the problem solving skills we have leaned. We are taught how to think, and how to master problems that at first sight seemed too difficult to master. I've definitely been taught to have confidence in my skills and my talents, to use them, and to not be afraid to ask for help when I am stuck.
 

It is a great feeling to start seeing how my educations is paying off, even thought I don't have a job yet and I am an intern. I've never been treated like an intern at my workplace, but like a member of the team, with expectations and with skills. It's time to apply what I have learned.

Claudia

APPLYING WHAT YOU'VE LEARNED

I saw this message posted out on the blog and I wanted to piggy back off of it by saying that within the past few quarters I have really started seeing just how the operational side as well as the business side of management operates and flows within my company.  It's amazing to see the intricate pieces start to fall into place and provide a much clearer picture and understanding then ever before. 

I wanted to also add that because of my age, I have a much stronger appreciation of the classes that I'm currently taking as well as the understanding and concepts that follow along with them.  Thank you to Sullivan for allowing me to reach my goals and fulfill my dreams for earning a degree.  Most importantly, thank you for offering a program that would not only fit my lifestyle but also my needs and desire to want to finish in an unconventional manner. 

The classes that I'm currently taking require more of me and more of my time due to the fact that I have to do more and more writing then ever before.  That in itself is a challenge for me, especially since I don't like writing papers at all. 

Anyway,  I appreciate the challenge and I also appreciate the support that comes along with it.

Tracy Dickerson

Applying What We've Learned

Getting towards the end of your degree program and having trouble finding work? Have you looked at all of your skills and gone beyond what you studied? A lot of graduates are having that issue. 

Landing your dream job right after graduation can happen, but there is still the time we all have to spend climbing the company ladder. For many, we are low on the totem pole and have to prove ourselves among our coworkers and bosses to get where we want, that's something we have learned to deal with during our time here at Sullivan. No one started off knowing everything about the degree they were studying, but we learned and studied and succeeded by graduating. 

Now that we are starting to enter the job market, we have to prove that we learned the necessary skills to perform our jobs and can tailor our knowledge and expertise to what our employers and potential employers want. The edge we have over others in the market is that we learned from professionals in the fields we are going into and they have taught us all the concepts we need to grow within a company. In some cases, they have helped us become our own bosses as we start a business venture of our own. 

Everything that we have learned here at Sullivan can be translated into a marketable skill, that is the great thing about Sullivan's well rounded degree programs.

Strickler

Getting closer to the finish line

I have mentioned this before, this is my last quarter of my Associate's Degree and I am in the middle of my internship. This quarter is all about graduation: doing paperwork, ordering my cap and gown, taking necessary exams, inviting people to my graduation, and planning a graduation party. It's exciting! Not that I have much time to really enjoy it, because I am crazy busy this quarter. But every now and then I do get to take a moment to realize that this really is my last quarter! I can't believe that I will be done in just five weeks. Of course when I say done I mean with my Associate's Degree, because this week I have met with someone in admissions to sign up for my Bachelor's Degree. I have decide to continue, because I want this for myself, and I am in a roll, so I'll just continue what I've been doing. I will definitely walk and go to my graduation, there is no way that I am missing out on this experience. I am excited though that from now on I will only have three classes instead of four, and I will be switching from day to night classes. In the fall quarter I will have one night class and two online classes. This will be an interesting new experience for me, because so far I have been day/online. 

So I will see everybody again in the fall. Count me in.

Claudia

Pairing Electives

My initial plan when I started at Sullivan University was to obtain my Culinary Arts degree.  As my education continued, I found myself in a situation where I only had my culinary labs left to finish but no lecture classes to fulfill the rest of my Financial Aid course requirement.  After discussing my options with the Admissions Team at Sullivan, I decided to throw myself into the Bachelor's Degree Program, as well.  Now, as a Culinary Arts graduate working towards my Hospitality Management degree, I have taken many classes that are catered to management of a business but not specifically in the hospitality industry.  Therefore, I have been encouraged to find the connection between what I am studying and how it could help me in my desired field of being an Executive Chef.

This quarter, I am taking an Anatomy and Physiology course as a General Elective required for my Bachelor's degree.  One short assignment I completed for this class shows an example of a connection I was able to make.  Our instructions for the assignment were to discuss which bone in the human body was our "favorite," and why.  The following insert was my response:

It is a somewhat difficult decision to choose ONE bone of the 206 in the human body

as my favorite. I'd honestly have to choose a structure of bones because it's the

function of many bones together that achieves my "favorite" task.  My favorites would

be the bones in the wrist and hands, the carpal bones, metacarpals, and phalanges.

In my line of work as a chef, my hands are my tools. I am able to touch, grasp,

and maneuver my utensils, tools, and, most importantly, the food I am working with.

My favorite area in a kitchen, my "comfort zone," is the saute station.  My hands,

wrists, and general arm muscles are the most valuable tools on a saute range.

Holding tongs and spatulas to agitate the product, motioning your wrists to flip

ingredients together in a pan, and gently placing food on a plate to form a beautiful

presentations form the basis of any saute station. Without the incredible function,

purpose, and control of my wrist and hand bones, I would not be as skillful or as

passionate about food.  My hands and wrists allow me to be in touch with my food,

to almost form a relationship with it that transitions out into the art of presentation. 

It is always exciting to learn new things about your desired profession and to make connections between things you previously knew.  Sullivan University is a great institution and outlet for these realizations.  This story is just one of many similar experiences I have had during my time at Sullivan.

Hayley Charron

Its getting closer and closer to the end

I am currently in my second to last quarter of graduating with my bachelor's degree in business management and I'm very excited about it, but I'm also nervous because I'm not sure what I want to do once I've received my degree.  My mind is batting around so many different ideas, some of which will keep me attending Sullivan University at least another year or 2, with that I'm really not sure what to do. 

What I've learned and appreciated the most during my attendance at Sullivan is that the choices of careers have expanded not only in society but also within Sullivan which has caused my slight case of uncertainty of career choices.  I took a Conflict Management class that was very interesting a few quarters ago, and because of that it has peaked my interests of learning more about that particular career field. 

Whatever I decide to do or whatever career choice I make I want to say thank you to Sullivan for offering up such diverse career choices and wonderful advancement opportunities, I am truly grateful and very appreciative.

Tracy Dickerson

Why Sullivan?

Did you know that Sullivan is the most recognized accredited private university in the state of Kentucky?  Sullivan University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as an institution of higher standards learning.  This accreditation allows associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees to be attains.  The Kentucky Council on Post-Secondary Education also licenses Sullivan to offer bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees to its prospective students.

The university also holds valuable accreditation for specific programs.  The Doctor of Pharmacy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.  The National Center for Hospitality Studies is accredited by the American Culinary Federation.  Each program within the school repertoire is officially accredited by the proper channels.  A student can be very confident in the degree which he or she is working towards. 

All programs, accreditation, and divisions can be found in detail on the Sullivan Sullivan website.  If you have more questions, concerns, and comments can also be directed to Sullivan's Admissions Department.

Hayley Charron

Ahead of the Curve

Getting ready to start a new career path or advance in your current career? What sets you and your resume apart from the stack of resumes that employers are looking at when they are getting ready to fill a position? Many employers consider the inter office dynamics of bringing in someone new, but to give yourself an edge above the others, several employers are looking at the volunteerism of candidates as a factor to show a strong work ethic and social responsibility. Many of the school organizations are already involved in community projects like Big Brothers/Big Sisters or community cleanup projects. It's not glamorous work, but it is very rewarding and may offer an extra set of skills that could put you ahead of the competition for that next job. If you want to find out more about the local volunteer opportunities, check with some of the school organizations in your field of studies or check www.volunteermatch.org, there's plenty of opportunities out there!

Brian Strickler

Last Quarter and externship are here

I am in my last quarter now and have started my externship as a paralegal at a prosecutor's office. So far, I have worked there two days, and tomorrow is my third day. It's been very exciting so far, and I have really enjoyed being there. The people I work with are amazing! They are very encouraging, and also very dedicated to making this a great experience for me. I feel welcome, and I know that I will learn a lot while I am there. This will making transitioning to a job so much easier, because of the exposure I am getting during my externship. It starts with driving and parking downtown and making my way through the different court buildings that are there. I know now where the clerk's office is, and I am making important connections with people I will have dealings with on a regular basis once I work at a law firm or any other place where I might be working once I graduate. I took criminal law last quarter at Sullivan, and now I am using my knowledge on a daily basis. It is exciting how classroom theory now turns into real life applications.

I think it is a really good thing that Sullivan makes its students do a externship project as part of the curriculum because this is valuable experience we are gaining as part of our education. Of course it is hard to fit in 15 hours of extra work on top of my school schedule with three more classes and my regular 20 hours I work every week. Right now I am working six days a week and I am not all that happy about my workload. Today is Sunday, and my weekend is already over, and I haven't done anything "fun" yet. By the time I am done with errands and grocery shopping, it will almost be time for bed. But three months from now, I will have finished my degree, and on October 12 I will get to wear my cap and gown and pick up my official papers. This will be so exciting! After all the hard work, to finally hold it in my hands. And you can be sure that I will send out cards to all the people who doubted that it could be done, and to all the people who supported me and cheered for me, and who knew that it could be done.

Claudia

Financial Resources

With just weeks to go before the new quarter, I'm seeing a lot of classmates filing out scholarship applications and lining up financing for the next few quarters of classes. No matter what your program, there is money out there to help you pay your way through school. The Imagine America scholarship offer up to $2,000, various other organizations offer scholarships based on all sort of qualifications. All these scholarships and grants can be found with an online search. So, while student loans are designed to get you through a bachelors degree program, it's helpful to use whatever resources you can to alleviate that debt when you graduate or use it to continue on through a masters degree. Given the competition in the job market, the higher degree you obtain, the more options you have in a job and the more desirable you are to employers. Think of the people out of work that have degrees and the people trying to get a job with out a degree, who would an employer pick first?

Strickler

Well, the quarter has come to an end and we are heading into last stretch: finals week. Another quarter has flown by and there's been a lot going on. The Student Veterans of America hosted a paintball game that was a resounding success and we're already planning next quarter's activities and my classes have been pretty challenging this time around.

Sullivan has always gave me a sense belonging and helped me pull my focus back on track and now that I only have a few quarters left in my bachelors degree, I will probably be saddened to end my studies. I'm looking forward to the two week break to get some much needed R&R before my next classes.

Gil

Externship

We are nearing the end of this quarter, and the next quarter will be my last quarter of my associate's degree. It's externship time! I have spent some time trying to figure out what I want: do I want to try and get a spot at one of the big name firms? Or find a place where it might turn into a job offer? Or go where other students had gone and had an amazing experience? I spoke with two of my teachers to get their input, and to see how realistic my  expectations were. In the end I went with the place where I know I will learn the most, and which came highly recommended by other students. It was a bit stressful though. Luckily I am taking the Professional Development class right now, a class in which we are coached how to write a winning resume, cover letters, thank you letters, and how to network and interview like a pro. I have to say that this class was extremely helpful, because when it was time to send out a resume for my externship I already had the one I had prepared for my class. I never knew that resume writing was such a science! Did you know that these days there is resume scanning software, which will pre-screen all applications and look for programmed key words? And your resume can be wonderful, but of you did not include the buzz words, you are out before a HR person ever glances at it. Or did you know that they spend only seconds on reading it? It's crazy. We also did a mock phone interview with a Sullivan employee from Career Services, which I also found extremely helpful. I was offered so much help, support, and useful tips for selling myself effectively. I feel like I am well prepared for the future.

Claudia

First off i would like to say that i am the proud recipient of the B.S.B.A full tuition scholarship. I cannot describe how thankful i am to Sullivan for giving me such a great opportunity to continue my education. I may have been able to do it by myself eventually because i am driven to succeed, but it is nice to know that all my work has been noticed.

Sullivan University Wellness Center

There are many programs and activities open to all students at Sullivan University. One that is often forgotten about but holds great value is the campus Wellness Center.  The purpose of the Wellness Center is to help students maintain balance while juggling the many aspects of everyday life.  The website states, "the SUWC helps you stay on track," professionally and personally, in aspects ranging from lifestyles and relationships to work and finances.  The advisers at the Wellness Center understand the stressful load that many students carry.

Services provided by the Wellness Center can be experienced through one-on-one sessions, dual appointments for relationships dispute resolution, or small group therapy.  The Center even holds topic discussions for support groups, training groups, or peer learning groups.  You can receive help in any number of categories: grief counseling, test anxiety, interpersonal skills, anger management, substance abuse, family counseling, and more.

The Wellness Center is located in the lower level of the Sullivan University Library in room L04.  The offices have regular business hours during the week but the advisers try their best to be available to students outside of those hours, as well.  Just stop in or give them a call!  See the information below or check out the appointment page on the SUWC website.  

502.413.8617

Monday - Thursday     10am - 6pm

Friday     9am - 3pm

The support you need to be successful! (cost)

Hayley Charron

Another Quarter almost to an end

Boy! Does time fly OR WHAT??? We're already quickly approaching week 8 of this quarter!! 2013 is zooming by! Can you believe we're almost over with May!?!?!

So I've graduated with my Associates and after this quarter, I will have also received my Personal/Private Chef's Diploma...Then, onward to my Bachelor's!!!

It has been a great experience thus far at Sullivan and I am so grateful that I took the extra step and sought out Sullivan for myself!! Not only do I have an Associate's degree under my belt, but I'll soon be obtaining a Bachelor's degree as well! Never in a million years would I have thought I could have accomplished this.  But thanks to my newfound family at Sullivan, all of my friends and family and most of all God Himself, I can say that I am a proud graduate of Sullivan University and owner of my own Personal/Private Chef Business!

Alona Beasley-Jenkins
Owner, LaLa's Decadent Creations, Louisville, KY

STRIKE A POSE!!!

About two months ago an email went out to us adult ambassadors and I was very excited to participate in the event.  Although I normally prefer to be behind the scenes when it comes to these kinds of activities, it was fun to be in front for once.  I would like to thank Sullivan for the opportunity although I really have no idea what or how there photos are going to turn out or what they are going to use them for, I was just glad to have been a part of something new  (for me at least).

Tracy Dickerson

Best Laid Plans

Coming close to the end of the associates program at Sullivan and lots to do. and taking the competency exams, filing out graduation forms, cap and gown measurements, lining up a career (not just a job) . Through this journey, I've heard many people talking about their lives. I've heard people talking about their lives and plans and it is exciting to hear about them. Sullivan has great, well rounded education plans that prep the students for their chosen careers, not just jobs to fill short term needs.

Sullivan has done a great job at making a difference between a job and career. Jobs pay the bills, careers make lifestyles. Sullivan gives that opportunity to the students to take control of their lives and take life to the next level, to achieve goals and to make the most of their career choice, but ultimately it's the plans we make that drive us, and the goals we set that we must achieve. 

“The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.” 

― Fyodor Dostoyevsky

Brian Strickler

Etiquette Dinner

About a week ago I attended the Etiquette Dinner hosted by Sullivan University at our Resident Hall. The Dinner was excellent, we learned about table manners, networking, and general tips on how to survive a formal business dinner. And we had fun at the same time. I really enjoyed the company at my table, one alumni and two managers from PNC Bank. Kim invited local business people to give the dinner a real feel, and also give us the opportunity to network. I thought the idea of the dinner was great, because we could learn in a relaxed atmosphere and prepare for the real thing. Plus, a free 7 course dinner! The food was absolutely fantastic. I will definitely attend again if they offer the dinner next year. This was such a valuable experience, especially since I am currently taking the Professional Development class, and the dinner tied in perfectly with what I've been studying in class.  I want to thank Kim for the planning, and Sullivan University and the sponsors for putting together this treat.

Claudia

 

Taste of Derby: Part Two

Last May, I posted about my experience working the Taste of Derby, a Derby Weekend kickoff event that raises funds for various causes.  I worked with chefs from around the world throughout a strenuous but amazing sixteen-hour day.  During the five hours of dinner service alone, I cracked and retrieved the yolks of over 600 quail eggs, as well as a number of other duties.  Although it was probably the most concentrated work I had ever done at once, I had a huge smile on my face all day. 

It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Although I graduated with my culinary degree a couple weeks ago, I have decided to work the Taste of Derby once again this year.  When the event was held last year, I was in International Cuisine, and our class was asked to help out.  I happily obliged!  This year, I am working because I love the experience and ambiance of the whole event.  There is nothing better than doing something you love, working with famous chefs, and networking with people from around the world, all while giving back to the community.  I am definitely looking forward to the Taste of Derby 2013!

Hayley Charron

so i am currently in the first quarter of my bachelors program! I have had so much fun at Sullivan i decided to stay another 2 years. I truly have gone above and beyond my own expectations of myself. when i first started i was scared but determined. now i am just determined! I love being involved in school and networking. I don't know where i will end up, but i know where it all started!
kamisha jones

IT WAS A GREAT DAY TO CLEAN!!! by TRACY DICKERSON

This past weekend I helped participated in the Operation Brightside Clean up for the mayors clean-up project.  My daughter and a couple of her team mates from the Louisville Starlings Volleyball Club Team all participated in the clean up. 

We had a beautiful day, the sun was out and we didn't have a whole lot of trash to pick up until the very end...of course, isn't that always the case.

Please take a look at the pictures that we took before, during, and after the clean up...

A Constant Balancing Act

Being an Adult Student brings several challenges to life daily. I personally opened a business this year which is open from noon till midnight everyday except Sunday. I am getting married in August and I am a Full Time Student. I find myself awake until the wee hours of the morning and hopping out of bed to get to work buy ten. I leave work at one to make it to class at two only to return to work after. Some days are worse than others. It is amazing what stress can do to a persons health and mental state. I truly feel bad for my other half and thankful that he is patient at the same time. He said to me yesterday " You know how all of the successful people in the world said it was difficult and a struggle to get to where they are today? That they sacrificed and gave up so much to gain all of what they have? That is what you are doing, and knowing you, you will be more successful than any women in bourbon before you!" Those moments in life, those words right there, are what make all of this worthwhile. Never ever give up because all of this hard work does in fact pay off in the long run!Cheers....

Beverage Management Grad
Hospitality Bachelors Student
Veronica

Last Quarter

Good afternoon all,
This quarter is my last quarter in the Pharmacy Technician Program.  I have learned so much in this program that is preparing me for a career in this field.  I have the confidence to stand tall with the knowledge that I have gained.  I am glad I made this choice and chose this program as it will lead to many career possibilities for me in the future!  Thanks for all my instructors and the Sullivan staff.  I have had a wonderful experience.  After I take a break for a while I may give serious thought to the PA Program in the future as I think this would build well upon my professional experience and knowledge!  We shall see.....
EdieJo

What's your plan?

What's your plan? It's an annoying question that you get asked all the time. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? You get asked this question in job interviews, and if you have to think about it, that's a bad sign to employers. As a Sullivan student, you've got part of the plan by getting a quality education, but what's next? Have you planned your next step?
A seldom used resource available for free is the Bureau of Labor Statistics website. It covers more than just wages and demand for a profession, there's a listing of what kind of jobs can be open to someone based on their chosen degree. It allows for options and maybe a direction that you can take in job hunting. An accounting student as a comptroller instead of a CPA, a paralegal student as a compliance officer for financial institution.
I encourage everyone to talk a look a this information, come up with a plan for the next step. More than one is better, having your degree opens so many doors that it would be a shame to not look at every possibility and take full advantage of your education. I hope this helps anyone not sure what their next step is.

Brian Strickler

A series of unexpected events

Coming down with the flu in week 9 of the quarter is horrible! Especially when it knocks you out for two full weeks. I have no idea how I made it through the last three weeks of the past quarter, and finals no less. It wasn't fun, I can tell you. Going to class, back home, back to bed. I had to call in sick at work two days because I felt so bad (I take two online classes, and two classes on campus, so I only have to be on campus two days per week). Luckily I had pushed myself to finish important assignments the day when I first noticed that my throat felt sore. I kept telling myself, if everything fails, I can still email the assignments to my teachers if I can't make it to class. I also had this huge final paper to write, and I was so relieved when the teacher moved the due date (not because of me, for some other reasons, but hey, I did appreciate it). Then finals week came along, and somehow I made it through. I probably did not do as well as I would normally have done, but it did not affect my grades, because I worked so hard during the rest of the quarter and my average was high enough to make up for it. One thing I can tell you: never procrastinate on assignments, because you never know what will happen. I am glad I didn't because having them finished ahead of time allowed me to stay in bed with the flu. And always do your best on exams, never go in with the attitude that you can make it up at a later time. If anything goes wrong, and you get sick like I did, it feels good to know that you can get a 75 in a final and still come out with an A at the end because you worked hard the rest of the quarter.

Claudia

I had so much fun representing sullivan this year in Napa Valley. i have decided that i love to compete and will be going to cinn, oh next weekend to compete again. I enjoy the fast pace and thrill of it all. I feel it makes me a better chef to push myself so far. I will also compete for the taste of derby as well! Next Iron Chef is on her way!

Kamisha Jones

Graduation is right around the corner!

It has been an amazing experience here at Sullivan.  I have just finished my internship at Winston's Restaurant, the culmination of my Culinary Arts degree.  I will proudly walk at the graduation ceremony in April.

I started at Sullivan University in June 2010; I was one of thirty-eight students in my class.  I was a somewhat reserved, eager kid excited to learn and meet new people.  I have accomplished much more than that!  Only nine of that original thirty-eight made it completely through the program.  I am the youngest of that group but maintained the highest grade(s) in our program.  I was given some amazing opportunities to work with very talented chefs from around the world at a number of charity and educational events.  I earned numerous scholarships to ensure my financial stability while enhancing my education.  I built a strong rapport with many administrators, instructors, and chefs at Sullivan that will serve as great networking connections in the future.

Yes, I've had my ups and downs.  But I've made it!  I've struggled; I've fought; I've been challenged.  But I made it!  I never gave up; I never failed.  And I made it!  With a little bit of faith in yourself, you can do the same :)

Hayley Charron

Breat too short

Good evening Sullivan friends,
I am wondering to myself today....is the break between classes too short?  I have to say yes it is!! It always seems like the 1 week break is just not enough time....the 2 week break is great.  I have not completed all the things on my "break to do list" so I guess this will carry over!
I am looking forward to the next break as that means we are into summer and that makes me very happy!!
Hope everyone had a great break!  See you on Monday....
EdieJo

Always cleaning up

Good evening fellow Sullivan friends,
It is time to give thanks to all the staff at Sullivan that are constantly tending to the cleaning duties on campus. We walk past them everyday in either the main building, the College of Pharmacy or any event. These fine folks need praise and recognition for all they do! Every time I walk by they are friendly and smile! They are very important to our university and we need to tell me how much they are appreciated, thank them for their work and recognize them! They do a great job. So folks who take pride in our cleanliness I say thank you!
Cleanest regards,
EdieJo

Is The Journey Too Far?

I was looking at some numbers that were brought to my attention the other day, less than half of the people who enter college in the U.S. actually graduate. In Kentucky, the number is higher, but still around 30%. Most leave because of financial problems, the second is for poor academic performance. Those are valid reasons to anyone, but the third leading cause was surprising to me, poor social fit...What!?! Leaving because it interferes with your social life? You can't see your friends or go out as often as you'd like? How is leaving school going to help with that?
School requires some sacrifices, yes. You have to commit time to succeed at it, but that's the same with anything else in life. How much easier a time are you going to have seeing them when you can't afford to go out on the weekends or can't get out of a shift working at a low paying job? Education is about making a better life for yourself, not winning a popularity contest. You are learning to get ahead in life and afford the things you and your family want. If you're letting your friends get in the way of a good future, how good of friends are they?
Lets turn the tables on that question, how good a friend are you to not let them know or see the skills you are learning and how it is helping your future? Have you told your friends about Sullivan and all the programs it has and it's Career Services Center that helps graduates with placement after you've earned a degree? As students we are here to learn valuable job skills to improve our future, but lets also try to raise the prospects in the futures of those around us and, in turn, the world we live in.

Brian Strickler

THE CONSTANT CHANGES

I have to say that these past 9 weeks of being in school, beginning a new year, and a lot of changes that have taken place within my company the one thing that I can say is that change is constant.  You never know when change is going to come, but whenever it does you certainly better be ready for it when it does. 

Although you may have a routine for day to day activities, I certainly do, there is going to be something that is going to throw a wrench in your plans.  I know you may have seen some of the posts that I've put on our blog about my son going off to college and being so happy and proud that he was actually trying to make an effort to not only further his education but to also try and make something of his life without his dad or I running the show.  well, I'm here to say that hearing that he is on academic probation and that he has not been making any kind of effort whatsoever to do any of what I mentioned for himself was not only a huge slap in the face but a major change that I was not completely prepared for.  Although I know my son and am very aware of how lazy he is, I hoped that there would be some incentive of being on your own and away from home that might have helped him want to do more with his life, that is the disappointing part of it all. 

At this point my son has until May to decide if he is going to make an effort to pass his classes or completely flunk out....let's see where this story will take us then.

Tracy Dickerson

Week 9 is ending..

I can't believe we are already finishing up week 9!! Only two more weeks until final exams and the quarter is over. The weeks have been just flying on by, but I'm glad because I have been making good use of them. So far, this quarter I attended my favorite set of classes and though they are all unrelated in subject, they tied in together perfectly. My classes were Intro to Speech, Microeconomics, and Psychology I. I benefited greatly from each in their own way, but I found Microeconomics to be the most interesting. I felt as if we were taking a relatively simple subject and examining it in a such a way as to expose it for how complex it really is. It was quite challenging conceptually, but once you got hold of the idea, it all made sense. Anyway, I hope everyone else is having as great of a quarter as I am!! Good luck with the upcoming finals!! The month of March has arrived!! :-)

Tim

getting closer to the end

So, first of all, congrats to all those that will be graduating this spring! I know that is a few of us adult ambassadors. I know that you have all worked hard to get here. I will be joining you, but will also go on to further my education at Sullivan.
I am nearing the end of quite a crazy ride. I have been involved in two competitions that are at the beginning of march. As the days draw nearer and my days grow longer, I am trying to keep sight of why I have taken on so much my last quarter. I promised myself that I would make the most of my experience here at Sullivan, and that is exactly what I have done. It annoys me to hear people say unkind words about my school when I know they are the type of people that feel they are entitled. Every opportunity is waiting for you here at Sullivan. It is up to the individual to take advantage. that is part of being an adult. I have found everything that I was looking for, and so much more!
I hope to bring home several accomplishments and awards to Sullivan! Here is two two more wonderful years of school!
`Kamisha Jones`

502 Restaurant Week

In over 200 cities around the country, dozens of restaurants are participating in National Restaurant Week.   Louisville has introduced 502 Week as a new Foodie event for this fast-growing culinary city, running February 22 through March 3.  Twenty-nine incredible restaurants around Louisville have chosen to participate in 502 Week, one being Winston's Restaurant here at Sullivan University.  According the the primary press release, the purpose for this city-wide event is to "promote the incredible restaurant industry that Louisville has become so famous for and to drive business into restaurants during a seasonal lull."

Each restaurant involved has designed a special menu for the event. These menus can be collectively seen on the 502 Restaurant Week website.  Most of the participating restaurants are abiding by the general deal of a three-course dinner for two people for $50.20.  Some, like Winston's, are offering some other fantastic specials as well. 

I am currently finishing up my culinary internship at Winston's.  The last couple weeks have been fun and educational in preparation for this great event.  The Winston's 502 Menu can be seen here.  Unlike most of the other participating restaurants, Winston's is doing things a little differently:

• The smaller four-course menu includes a cup of soup, two choices from the small plate menu, and a dessert for $25.10. 
• The larger four-course menu is comprised of a cup of soup to start followed by one selection from the small plate menu, one selection from the large plate menu, and a choice of dessert for $50.20.
• Winston's is also offering glasses of wine for $5.02, as well as $5.02 of any full bottle of wine.

These deals, at Winston's and the other restaurants involved in 502 Week, are incredible! Make sure to take advantage this week!

Hayley Charron

Internship getting closer

I can't believe that soon I will have to start looking for a place for my internship. When this quarter is over, I will only have two quarters left and I am done with my Associate's Degree. This week I am going to a lunch of the Louisville Association of Paralegals and I need to talk to some of the ladies there to get some phone numbers of HR contacts. I am a little overwhelmed by this task, because there are so many other assignments and tests I currently have going on. But it is always like this, there are tests, homework, advising, financial aid appointments ... the list goes on and on. Seems like every week something new comes up. I can't wait for Spring Break! I will do absolutely nothing. Well, except I still have to go to work, of course. But in the end, it's all doable. And the sense of accomplishment is great.

Claudia

Another Quarter Almost Over!

Is time flying by or what???  I've actually lost track of the weeks!  Due to starting the 2nd week of the quarter for one of my classes and being off for another, I'm really not sure what week it is off the top of my head...I want to say it's week 7....wow.....

So, I'm enjoying my personal/private chef class tremendously!  I have actually got the ball rolling on my business and I'm so excited!! I've registered my business and have received my EIN!! Now I'm in the process of working with a friend to create my logo and design my webpage and order new business cards!! I'm ready to get this thing started!!!!

My prayer is that I get many clients and fulfill all of their dreams and desires!! I want to be parts of so many families and have my name out there to where I will succeed in bringing families back to their dinner tables one meal at a time!

Alona Beasley-Jenkins
~LaLa's Decadent Creations, A Personal Chef Service (Owner {that is a great feeling! I'm the owner!!!})

Sometimes you have to just breathe....

It has always amazed me what an average human being is capable of when they put their mind to it! I personally am a walking time bomb. Currently I am a full time student with Sullivan. A full time owner and Manager of a new business MATCH Cigar Bar. I am in the middle of planning a wedding in less than 6 months time and to top it all off this week, I have to find a new home for me and my family of 3 dogs and a soon to be husband. So I guess this is where the BREATHE comes into play. Sometimes I wonder how so many people see themselves as productive by doing very little with their time. Then I find myself running on 4 hours of sleep and day and a brain that just does not shut off. However with all of this being said it is amazing the capacity I have to still maintain in life. So many people have those moments where you just cannot take on any more. So how am I surviving? How do I awake everyday with the will to power through all of this? I know that the Hard Work will pay off in the long run. If you face life head on and challenge yourself daily your end result will be an even more fulfilling, proud time in your life! But sometimes that feeling cannot come soon enough. But as I sit hear, at three am, writing a Marketing Plan, a Research Paper, all while ordering product for work, I know myself I wouldn't have it any other way!

Cheers
Veronica Shipman

Take Advantage of Every Opportunity

I know we should strive to learn something new as often as possible, but I never dreamt I'd be learning such a HUGE lesson on time management at 48 years of age.

In late October of 2012, my mother-in-law had surgery to repair a hernia operation from 18 years before; tests at this time showed a quarter-sized spot on her pancreas.  As a present, my wife and I had been given a trip to a resort in Florida the week before Christmas, 15-22 December.  The ability to take this trip came in doubt on December 11 when further tests gave my mother-in-law 3-4 months to live, whether she did chemo and radiation treatments or not.  It was decided (actually, my mother-in-law insisted) that we would take the trip and use it as an opportunity to recharge our batteries for the struggle that was to come.  As we approached the Kentucky-Tennessee border on the morning of 15 December, my wife's cell phone rang.  It was her brother calling to inform us that further test indicated we had1-2 weeks, not the previously discussed time frame.  Needless to say, we turned around at the next exit and returned to Louisville.  We struggled through Christmas, and on 27 December, exactly 9 years and 6 months after her husband passed (also of pancreatic cancer) we lost that truly wonderful lady.

It is with this in mind that I urge everyone to take advantage of the gifts, talents, and opportunities that we find in our lives.  Appreciate the little things that can truly impact us more than we can ever imagine.  Time is fleeting, and the opportunity to gain education is a gift that we MUST appreciate and use to the fullest potential we possibly can.

Good luck to all in the remaining weeks of this quarter.  Semper Fidelis and Semper Paratus.

Whitney T. Nall

Wow...January is over!!!

Can you believe we're right at the end of January??? Where did the time go???? We're already into 2013!!
I'm excited!! Not only did I complete my Culinary Arts degree last month but I only have one more class to take and I'll be receiving my Personal/Private Chef degree as well!! 

I'm enjoying the ins and outs of the personal/private chef class with Chef Smith.  He's such a knowledgeable man! Not only does he know a lot of things, but he doesn't mind sharing his wealth of knowledge and being brutally honest in sharing his achievements, successes and even failures.  I'm very confident in knowing that I will be able to succeed in my goal of having a personal/private chef business in the near future with his instruction and insight.

Alona Beasley-Jenkins
Culinarian Extraordinare :)

Well, we've just finished week 5 and midterms and it's seemed like a long road to get to this point but it's somewhat downhill from here for the rest of the winter quarter. One thing I'm grateful for is that the Student Veterans Association, Chapter 227 received a new faculty sponsor this quarter and we're back up and running with what looks like a bright future and an opportunity to give back to both the community and the veterans that give us our rights and freedoms - without them we couldn't do many of the things we do. Valentine's day is just around the corner which also means spring is around the corner as well, briniging with it a time of renewal and growth. Looking forward to finishing this quarter and seeing what the rest of the year holds: if its anything like this quarter, then it will definitely be a challenge.

Gil

A Busy Start to the Year!

I recently completed the curriculum required for my Culinary Arts degree.  The only other obstacle I need to tackle is my internship, which I started in December.  I also took a position as a Chef Apprentice at a local, casual fine dining restaurant.  After the holidays were over, I started right in to full-time work, full-time school, and an internship.  It has been hard to juggle but I've already accomplished a lot in the first half of this quarter.

I had many choices for my internship but decided upon Winston's Restaurant in order to stay within the Sullivan system to continuing build my rapport throughout the University as well as to take advantage of the opportunity to work with Chef John Castro.  At Winston's, I do prep and work the saute station during service.  Although business is not as crazy as some of the restaurants I have worked in, I have benefited from Chef Castro's vast knowledge.  My diligence during downtime has paid off; I was offered the Sous Chef position.  While the offer was an honor, I had to turn it down as my schedule could not handle the requirements of the job right now.  Sometimes, it is difficult to turn down great opportunities but I believe it is better to have too many opportunities than none at all!

Last month, I posted about an event I worked at the end of November, a charity auction for The March of Dimes.  I got paired up with Chef Harold Baker, the Executive Chef of Gary's on Spring.  A few days after the event, he called me and offered me a Chef Apprentice position.  Once again, my hard work paid off.  Since then, I have worked under Chef Baker at Gary's.  I am mainly working in Pantry making salads, appetizers, and desserts but I have also been able to cross-train on the other stations.  I am definitely looking forward to seeing what else Gary's has to offer me.  It has been a great experience so far!

Other than juggling both jobs, I am continuing to work on my Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management. It is a little more difficult to get through the lecture classes when I no longer have my culinary labs every week, but I am working hard and getting through.  Every day, I am reminded of why I made the decision to go through the Culinary program at Sullivan University.

I leave you with a saying that has stuck with my since high school.  Our class had a slogan that we created freshman year and lived through senior year: "YOGOWYPI," pronounced "yo-go-whippy."  While it may sound silly when you say it out loud but the meaning is much more: "You Only Get Out What You Put In."  Remember that the next time you face a challenge.

Hayley Charron