From May 12, 2009- Snippets & Snapshots

As this is my final column for the Mainsheet, I leave you with a few things I have learned in college that can benefit us all. I know the A through Z method is old fashioned, but tried and true seems to fit here.

"Accuracy, Accuracy, Accuracy!" This word is fundamental in the journalism world but carries through virtually everywhere else as well. If you can't see its importance, see Professor James Kershner and he will clear it up for you. Bold is better. I have gotten by 'safely' with my writing before but in the end, bold produces "all killer and no filler." (Again for clarification, see Professor Tim Miller.) Cranky attitudes create cranky environments and can burn bridges fast. Deep breaths can flush out anger, animosity, and other icky things before they are released on the wrong people. (Take a minute to try that now.)

Empathy can not only make you a kinder person, but it can also open your eyes to real-world issues. Faculty members can be more than teachers. They can be colleagues, mentors and friends. Gain respect by giving respect. Haiku poetry can be a funny way to release thoughts that are troublesome.

"I need to find work,
A meaningful job will do,
Someone call me please."

Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming"... (OK- that one I learned from "Finding Nemo.") Keep an eye on the road ahead but make time to enjoy the moments before because it all goes so fast. Learning isn't all about textbooks and courses; everyone around you has a story to tell and so much can be learned if you just listen.

Making money is a fine objective, but following a passion is often more rewarding. Never trying is the only true way to fail. Omitting information can be the same as lying. Persistence will help you overcome the most difficult of challenges. Question of the week in the Mainsheet is a fun way to get people talking. There is real value in stiking up conversation with people you don't know. (Try that one later.)

Remember that just because you can, doesn't mean you should. Strive for excellence and ask for help when you need it. Think first. How many of us spout off at the mouth again and again when a little insight first could save face later. Understanding the task is the key to completion and success. Valentine's day and like holidays are dreaded in the newspaper business; they are old, old, old. Try to bring a fresh idea to all that you do and keep an open mind. Whining, complaining and excuses don't help and are unpleasant for everyone. Xerography is a dry photocopying technique (in case you were wondering.)

Yale and Harvard are top-notch schools true, but the energy, passion and dedication put forth by the faculty and adjunct members of Cape Cod Community College make the education far superior here at CCCC. In our small community we can build life long connections beyond comparison. (See letter 'Q' for the importance of talking to people.)

Zygotes make up all of us regardless of our skin color, ethnicity or sexual orientation, so lending a line from "Bill and Ted," be excellent to each other.