I was waiting to post this until I got my grades back. Two As, bringing the final GPA to 3.981 (15 As and one sneaky A-). So, now I only have the Pi Alpha Alpha induction on 5/21 and graduation on 5/22.
This has been fun...for hard work. Who new 3 years ago I'd be saying that?! I met with a MA state representative to present a group project on the Franklin Park Zoo, I had a project sent to the town finance director of Concord. I've even been commended for my "interesting" take on issues...I'm not sure if that's always a GOOD thing, but hey, why not.
So, now I'm on the job hunt (though anything I find needs to be closer to home and as enjoyable as my current job), I'm back to volunteering (some for an animal shelter, some for a literacy program), and I'm on a mission to drop the 30 lbs I gained while being too busy writing papers to eat properly. The last one is going to take some mental fortitude. But, I've proven I have the ability to do whatever I want when I set my mind to it, so here we go!
I found that the most important part of the MPA program isn't the professors or the assignments or the reading - it's the people. I met so many people with so many different viewpoints and experiences. Each class took me out of my comfort zone, because I needed to be able to present my views in a manner that would not alienate or offend people. Some of my classmates didn't do that, but they were very few and far between. Most listened, offered their ideas, and we were able to build a consensus. Very few of the conversations got to a point where anyone could potential harbor ill will.
So, I'll leave you with this - liberal, conservative, socialist, libertarian, anarchist, whatever. We had a diverse group of students, and we all managed to be respectful in expressing ourselves and listening to others. (If only the larger population would follow suit.)
BTW - May tends to have many elections and votes for local communities. My hometown is considering a Proposition 2 1/2 override this month, in fact. If your community has a vote scheduled, GET DOWN THERE AND LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD! Otherwise, don't complain when the "other guys" win. =)