• 27Jan

  Are you ready for college?

  GainLearning, GainVille 36 Comments

  Newsletter January 2010                                                                              Issue 3

  
  Are you anxious about going to college?  Yes, college is more difficult than high school.  To help you out, here are some of the differences you can expect.

  You’re going to college! It’s exciting, but you’re probably a little nervous about freshman year, right? You know how your high school teachers have been telling you that college is going to be much more difficult than high school? Well, they’re right.

  Scared? Part of the scary part is that you don’t know what to expect academically. People keep telling you your school work is going to be tough, but you don’t know exactly what that means. So how is college different than high school?

  Here’s the big difference: in college, you are responsible for your own education. In high school, teachers made sure that you were on track. In college, you are on your own. Here are some ways that college is different than high school:

  • You don’t have to go to class. That’s awesome, right? Not really. To many students, skipping class is too big a temptation to resist, especially if it’s a big lecture hall class where the professor doesn’t know you. Here’s the scoop: if you don’t go to class all or most of the time, you’ll do poorly.
  • You need to manage your time. In high school, your teacher will tell you to read pages 35-48 for class tomorrow and to start working on your paper. In college, the professor hands you a syllabus. It tells you when readings need to be done and when assignments are due. You need to take the syllabi from all of your classes and figure out how to best divide up your time.
  • You need to study more. Professors expect you to study 2-3 hours outside of class for every hour spent in class. In college, studying has to be a major part of your life.
  • The reading load is heavier and tougher. Expect many more pages and many more big words. And don’t expect the professor to go over all the readings in class. The readings may overlap with the lecture, but not always, so you have to do the reading and learn it on your own. And yes, it will be on the test.
  • Taking notes is more difficult. In high school, your teacher will probably give you an outline of his or her lecture and tell you what points will be on the test. In college, the professor often just talks. It’s your responsibility to write everything down and know what is important. Here are some college notes taking tips. 
  • You won’t be reminded about deadlines and tests. It’s your responsibility to know your deadlines. Read your syllabus frequently.
  • There are no As for effort. In high school, teachers sometimes give students credit if they try and don’t do well at something. In college, you can study your tail off and get a D on the test. The only thing that matters is the end result, not the effort.
  • Your parents won’t be able to help much. By law (in the U.S.), professors cannot discuss your school work with your parents. The school considers you an adult, and sharing your personal information with other adults is illegal. Your parents may be able to give you guidance about classes and your social life, and if you’re lucky, they’ll help you out financially. For the most part, though, you’re on your own.
  • Help is available, but you have to seek it out. People will be happy to help you, but you need to seek out their assistance. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your professors and TAs, and seek additional help from academic advisors, the campus study skills center, and the writing lab.
  • You need to balance work and play. Your social life has to come second to your school work, and your parents and teachers won’t be around to make sure that happens.
  • Discipline problems will not be tolerated. Students are expected to act like adults in class. Students who do not can be removed from class or from campus.
  • You choose most of your classes and your major. In high school, many or most of your classes were chosen for you. In college, you get to choose your major and your plan of study. This can be intimidating, but also rewarding.

  Sound painful? At times, it will be, especially at first. First semester freshman year is about learning how to be a college student. If you work diligently and hold yourself up to high expectations, the work will seem easier with time.

  Dr. Nora Alarifi

  nalarifi@gaincontact.com

   

   

  Tags: college admissions, study in the usa

• 30Dec

  Happy New Year to all…

  GainContact, GainVille 6 Comments

  As the press highlights all the top news stories of the decade, all the celebrity break-up and make-ups, the special sports moments and even stock picks gone sour I noticed how many sources tell us how it was the “Decade from Hell” (Time Magazine) For that, I shall respond with a quote from my favorite Charles Dickens Christmas character,  ”Bah, Humbug.”

  For me it was the best.

  Sure I loved, laughed and lost. We all have. But I realized something in this last decade. I learned how attitude changes everything and how each day we have a choice. A choice to be happy, a choice to be successful, a choice to have fun.

  So for 2010 and beyond I plan to continue on my path of truly staying adventurous and I hope you’ll join me. It worked for Ebenezer Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol,” and it worked(s) for me. Imagine if we all chose it. Wow, what a wonderful world it would be.

  So as you mark the moment and really ponder your chance to start fresh, I hope you consider changing that attitude.  Follow the advice of Thoreau, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you imagined.” Create the life you want for tomorrow, next year, and the next decade. I will.

  So Happy New Year to you and thanks for your support. I look forward hearing from you again on the blog in 2010.

  Stay adventurous,

  Craig

  Tags: 2010, A Christmas Carol, Change, Craig Zabransky, New Year, Thoreau

• 02Nov

  Cheering for everyone; the true joy of the NYC Marathon

  GainVille 142 Comments

  Weekends in New York always make a great story. This past weekend was no different. The village’s flamboyant Halloween parade, countless city establishments packed with Yankee fans rooting for their team in the World Series, not to mention standard Friday night fine dining, Sunday brunches, Broadway Shows, and much more. Eventful indeed. Yet, to many who love the city, this weekend was not about any of that – it was simply marathon weekend.

  The race begins on Sunday morning in Staten Island where 40,000 runners from all over the world start their 26.2-mile journey. Through five boroughs they run bringing together a community, and a city. Considered one of New York’s most cherished traditions and one of the world’s most popular marathons, I discovered that the race brings out the best in us.

  I never truly appreciated the event until my Dad entered. He always wanted to run the race, and three years ago in his 60s, he competed and completed the milestone. But what I discovered on that autumn day remains with me today. I didn’t just cheer for my father, but I cheered for all the runners.

  As a spectator you can’t help yourself, you cheer. You cheer for your friends and complete strangers. You cheer for countries, causes, and even costumes. Whatever a runner wears on their T-shirt, duck-tapes on their shorts, or writes on their legs – you cheer for it. You let them know you are pulling for them to finish.

  And it becomes contagious; people even get creative. Otis might become “Otis, My Man” (Animal House), France jerseys and tank tops become “Viva La France,” and ladies raising awareness and money for breast cancer, become “We love you Pink Ladies,” (dressed all in pink outfits.) You get into it; you become a fan of the common (wo)man.

  Plus, they hear you and acknowledge your support. They say thank you with a smile or a thumbs up and some even pick up their pace. You give them the fuel they need to continue. It’s not New York’s famous water credited for its pizza and bagel making magic that replenishes the runners, but the course’s cheerleaders.

  So this year again I returned to Central Park in the late afternoon, six hours after the race began. There on the course’s final mile, I cheered loudly for people I never met. I encouraged runners to finish the race, to complete their NYC marathon. I let them all know, by any means possible that I appreciate and applaud their tremendous effort.

  After nearly an hour of support, with the sun starting to set I walked home. Through the park I admired the fall foliage and the leaves as they gracefully let go allowing the wind to carry them off. Then I realized during the race we all let go too. We let go of any prejudices and root for everyone. The fans of New York pull for all the runners, all shapes and sizes, all colors and creeds. The city roots for human accomplishment. To me, that represents the very core of the Big Apple and one of the reasons I continue to call it home.

  So congratulations to all who ran the race this year. And for those running next year, I’ll be back in the park cheering for you too. And hopefully I’ll see a few more of my readers by my side.

  Stay adventurous,

  Craig

  Tags: Craig Zabransky, GainVille, Letting Go, New York, NYC Marathon, Running

• 02Oct

  America’s Best Idea - Our National Parks

  GainVille 22 Comments

  When you hike the Badlands, witness the gigantic geysers of Yellowstone, camp outside the mountain peaks in Grand Teton, ponder the clear blue water of Crater Lake and stand breathless at the foot of the Grand Canyon - you change.

  More likely, you transform. You see the world through a different lens. It tends to be quite refreshing.

  I always considered the National Park System (NPS) a big part of America and it was one of the main reasons I drove cross-country. But I didn’t know its story. And I never considered it one America’s best ideas until watching Ken Burns’s documentary on PBS (final episode tonight @8pm). Now I tend to agree.

  The show “National Parks – America’s Best Idea” starts at the birth of an idea and documents how the idea flourished into the system of protected Parks, Monuments, and Seashores that exist today. Not always a smooth ride, the gripping storytelling coupled with the majestic scenery shots creates a moving, yet educational must-see TV.

  You witness how our nation’s capitalistic thirst for commercial wealth threatened our parks, yet at times even helped. You see how government policy protected but also left land vulnerable. And perhaps most important, you learn how ordinary citizens became extraordinary as they championed the cause to protect and preserve lands against seemingly impossible odds. For those citizens, just witnessing the bountiful beauty in nature energized them enough to take action. Unknowingly, they are the very heroes of the parks we take for granted today. After watching the series, I just want to tell them, “Thank you.”

  A Native American proverb tells us, “we do not inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” And whether you see the National Parks as cathedrals of nature sculpted by the hand of god or a place to pitch a tent and sample the wilderness they serve as the place that preserves the magnificence our land for future generations.

  When you visit them, you will agree, that it just may be our ‘best idea.’

  Stay adventurous,

  Craig

  Tags: America, Craig Zabransky, Future Generations, GainVille, National Parks, Native Americans, Nature, Travel

• 17Sep

  Music for the soul: The New York Philharmonic

  GainVille 227 Comments

  Last night marked the opening night concert for the new season at Lincoln Center. The New York Philharmonic, the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States began its 2009-2010 season under the leadership of new music director Alan Gilbert. But even with a new leader it still serves a similar mission. To connect the world through excellence in music.

  As I sat in Avery Fisher Hall to watch (or rather listen to) the free dress rehearsal open to the public, I realized how much I enjoy listening to a performance. The strings sang and a journey began. I started to daydream. My soul filled with emotion; I felt uplifted. On intermission, I wondered why I don’t come more often or even just listen to such beauty on my iPod. I looked around I sensed I wasn’t alone. People with origins from all over the world sat beside me with the same thoughts.

  From reading the playbill the New York Philharmonic musicians played to packed audiences in over 475 cities in 59 countries over the years. Last year, even included the historical performance in Pyongyang (North Korea) where the Philharmonic received the 2008 Common Ground Award for the Cultural Diplomacy.

  This season, the Philharmonic scheduled an Asia Horizons tour. The trip stops in familiar stops such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore and the new destinations of Hanoi (Vietnam) and two cities in the United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi and Al Ain). Cultural ambassador once again.

  As I left yesterday’s session, an internal brightness provided warmth even on cold, rainy day here in New York. The music touched me. I hope the concerts continue to do the same for all its audiences (both here in NY and all over the world) this season.

  Stay adventurous,

  Craig

  Tags: Craig Zabransky, Cultural Ambassador, GainVille, Lincoln Center, Music, New York, New York Philharmonic

• 28Aug

  America is alive and well…

  GainVille 9 Comments

  Today most news stories seem focus on the many issues our nation faces and only highlight America’s past greatness. But trust me, our nation is not in total decline. Yes, certainly, challenges exist, but after one summer afternoon in Pennsylvania I am here to tell you America, true America, is alive and well.

  In my past travels, I drove across the States. I spent an entire summer on the road. I witnessed the majesty of our national parks, the might of our great cities, and the makeup of our small town character. I knew America; I believed in America. But that too was years ago and as doubts crept in, I needed a reminder.

  My wish was granted; this past Tuesday I attended the Little League World Series (LLWS) to watch some baseball.

  USA Today recently named the championship to its top 10 greatest places to find true Americana. And I agree. The paper based its decision on the list compiled in National Geographic’s new book “USA 101: A Guide to America’s Iconic Places, Events, and Festivals.”  (You can see the list on http://www.seetheusa101.com)

  The free parking, free admission, and cheap concession stand prices make it affordable for anyone to come. And 20,000 did to come see the summer sight of the twelve-year old boys (and girls) playing in the ball games that afternoon. That coupled with the fans in the stands, families spread out on the hill with blankets and the kids attempting to catch a homerun ball spells America to me.

  Nearly, every community in the US has a Little League team and many of us played in our youth. There is a connection to the game that is part of our fabric as a nation; it is our past time. Today, the organization has 2.6 million players across all 50 states and 75 nations.

  But at the LLWS the best of the best come. Sixteen teams (8 US, 8 International) play for the championship. Here it is not about money, luxury boxes, but still about playing a game. During the six inning contests, the kids make great plays and errors, hit homeruns and strike out, celebrate and sometimes shed a tear. And all of it is great, because they are but just kids playing on a field of dreams.

  So if you are not planning to make the trek at least set your DVR and melt into your couch on Saturday at 12 noon for the International Championship, 3pm for the US championship and again at 3pm on Sunday for the final championship. (All times EDT) If you do, you will realize what I do - Yes, America is alive and well.

  Stay Adventurous,

  Craig

  Tags: America, baseball, Craig Zabransky, GainVille, Little League, Pennslyvania

• 21Jul

  wake up and smell the roses!…{Lets Embrace Global EducAtion = Be coNNected}

  GainVille 131 Comments

  I always find it ironic that considering how diverse we are as a nation, we are formed in such a way to live in our own bubbles and often stay oblivious to the foundation that our country is built upon. We live in the most multi-ethnic society of it all and yet we can be so separated and distant from our fellow neighbors and people around us. I ask you what is wrong with us?   While one might think I am exaggerating and being cynical, I must say we should take advantage of what we’ve got because it’s one of the things that makes us unique. It sounds prejudice to say, but it’s true that one can experience a glimpse of India by walking down Indian square , Jersey City with all the shops, restaurants, salons, etc one can smell the food, hear the music and speak the language with people on the street. Most big cities have China towns.  In Denver they actually have a Japan town I am a firm believer that before we can walk around with an open eye and see the beauty in diversity, we need to educate ourselves and our children by first taking steps to learn a second language, for example.

  There are people who believe that we should be an English-speaking country only  Of course, I agree that we should all be able to speak a common language, but we should not disregard the greatest asset the US has going for it: its multi-cultural roots.  Languages are great for kids just as they are great for adults, and let’s not forget that learning a language goes beyond being able to communicate with people from around the world but it also gives us insight into other cultures. The only way to really appreciate a language is to use it in a real world context.  Going to a foreign country is ideal, but when that is not possible, there are plenty of cultural experiences right here in our communities.  We have a huge benefit over some other countries, and I think it’s a shame that we don’t take more advantage of it.  Everybody should learn another language, not so we can impress people, but rather so that we can use that language for our benefit and learn something in the process. Of course language is only one aspect of cross-cultural understanding, and the list of ways we can incorporate global education is endless but who is responsible to enforce this?

  So let’s be real, as a country (I do not intend to generalize) we do NOT embrace our multicultural communities and many times fail to make sure we educate our children to grow up as global citizens. I will not even mention my frustration with our education system but I will note that while the administration is busy enforcing the ‘No Child Left Behind Act’, it’s most definitely leaving behind integrating one of the most crucial aspects of education and that is learning about our heritage and appreciation for diversity {in a nut shell}, so we can be globally aware therefore socially responsible within our own communities and nation at large. After all ‘intercultural dialogue is the best guarantee of peace’. Please do not hesitate to share your thoughts on this and expand on my concern and I guess frustration. I would love to hear some support and ideas or even honest criticism on how can we work towards a better system of values that  integrates greater appreciation and education on diversity, global mind-sets, and well you get my point.

  pax,

  Mahtab A.

  Tags: bi lingual, children, cross cultural, diversity, Education, future generation, GainVille, global education, language immersion, multicultural

• 19Jul

  The GIANT Leap

  GainLearning, GainSelf, GainVille 1 Comment

  Forty years ago the world changed. Humanity watched two men take a few steps; small simple steps that crowned a determined decade-long drive. Man graced the surfaced of the moon.

  Neil Armstrong, the astronaut who placed the first footprints on the moon marked the moment. He told the world, “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” His famous words seem destined to echo through time (and space) forever. He knew humanity took a GIANT leap.

  For thousands of years people dreamed of reaching the moon, and many people alive today were born when it still thought to be impossible. But it was achieved and arguably must be mentioned when conversing about man’s greatest achievements of any generation.

  So as we all watch in wonder again this anniversary ( http://tinyurl.com/mx4gmp) what can we learn?

  First, we can enjoy anniversary news coverage (you can even follow it on twitter @ReliveApollo11) that is not of a tragedy, a war, or a death, but of a positive human achievement. That alone maybe cause to celebrate. But perhaps we can also simply surmise that the once thought illogical is in fact possible.

  So as I continue to watch in amazement about the lunar landing, I am deciding to take my own giant leap to believing we can once again do great things both in the heavens above and here on earth. Are you with me?

  Stay adventurous,

  Craig Zabransky

  Tags: Anniversary, Craig Zabransky, Dreams, Moon

• 23Jun

  It’s all right, it’s ok…a lesson learned in Bali

  GainVille 5 Comments

  The Indonesian island of Bali certainly holds a mystique for the traveler.  A trip to the Indian Ocean paradise provides the visitor the opportunity to enjoy so much.

  You can watch sunsets from pristine beaches or ancient temples upon majestic cliffs, you can hike to wondrous waterfalls, an active volcano, or across terrace rice fields, you can surf splendid waves, and you can view vibrant art and unique cultural dances.

  Recently returning from the island, I can tell you Bali is stunning. But even with all the incredible memories, amazing adventures, and the experiences that will last a lifetime, I realized (again) something simple about travel.

  Travel educates.

  Mark Twain penned, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.” Thanks Mark, I agree.  And one step further, for those without such beliefs, it still teaches us to expand our horizon and learn something new. I take something back with me from each and every trip and my recent trip to Bali proved no different.

  Bali is largely Hindu, but Indonesia is mostly Muslim and these religions, coupled with the ancient and colonial past provide a peek into the Balinese. However, I even discovered a more precious gem about the Balinese – Attitude.

  A positive attitude can change your day.  Balinese understand the balance in life and don’t seem to complain even in the recent economic downturn that may make travel less affordable for the very tourists they depend on.  My one taxi driver summed it up best.

  “It’s all right, it’s ok…”

  He just mentioned it would allow him to do other things and that things would turn around. Perhaps his ‘don’t worry, be happy’ attitude exists because he lives in paradise, or perhaps he and the Balinese know something. I tend to think the latter.

   Stay adventurous,

  Craig Zabransky

   

  Tags: Attitude, Bali, Craig Zabransky, Education, Indonesia, Travel

• 28Apr

  Learning from the experts

  GainContact, GainSelf 6 Comments

  Counselling Arabia 2009 brings counsellors and students together to discuss best practices in the profession. Rema Menon was at the conference held last week. There is not enough awareness about the importance of seeking counselling, said Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), urging counsellors to run more public awareness campaigns on the subject. The minister was speaking at the inauguration of the Counselling Arabia 2009 Conference, held at Abu Dhabi Women’s College last week. “We need to help people help themselves so as to improve the quality of life and contribute to a well-functioning society,” Shaikh Nahyan said. This year’s conference saw students, professional counsellors, human resource trainers, coaches, doctors, English teachers and psychologists busy exchanging ideas and networking. Students from UAE University, Sharjah Women’s College and Abu Dhabi Women’s College said the conference was an amazing opportunity to listen, learn and better understand some of the challenges they would face as professionals in the future. The conference is aimed at people working within the wider counselling and human development arena including participants from educational institutions in the UAE and beyond. Workshops and presentations in Arabic and English were held over two days with the third day being dedicated to training. Special guests included English language keynote speaker Carol Ann Fried from Vancouver, Canada, who spoke about negotiating transitions successfully. “Several people felt it was very apt for them. They understand & that transition is a process with a beginning, a middle and an end. We each move through this process in our own unique way,” said Fried after her inspirational speech. Arabic keynote speaker Dr Nora Alarifi Pharaon from New Jersey, USA, described the cultural competency in mental health care. New course During the conference a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Higher Colleges of Technology and the United Printing and Publishing Press to offer a Diploma in Printing and Packaging.

  By Rema Menon

  Published April 11, 2009 on Gulf News.com

  Tags: abu dhabi, counselling, Gulf news.com, human development

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