Either I volunteered or was appointed to start a blog (I guess it doesn't really matter) for sharing experiences with AmeriCorps here at UNK and in the Kearney, NE vicinity. I'll begin with a little blurb about myself: My name is Rachael and, as of yesterday, I have survived 24 years of life. I feel too young and too old all at the same time. I have a daughter who will turn 5 soon (making me feel quite a lot older than I am) and I am a student at UNK (does this mean I can still be young?). I have a BA in Studio Art with a minor in Women's Studies and I am also working on a BS in Social Work...and there is talk of me finishing a long-lost minor in Graphic Design if I can convince myself to take that one last class! When I graduate in May 2010 I will receive 2 degrees...exciting! I've lived in Kearney since 2005 and I love when I can get out and do some traveling. 

   I just started with AmeriCorps so I'm still feeling my way around. So far I have managed not to cause any catastrophes and I think I'm beginning to get the hang of things. I will mostly be working with the Asset Mapping project...which is great because I'll be working with many of my favorite professors from UNK and other great people who are students or active community members.

   I have "blogged" before...mostly on MySpace...so I think this will come somewhat naturally. The hardest part is finding a balance between personal vs. professional. I'm not planning to do this newspaper editorial style (that's what enewsletters are for) because I want it to be open and honest. Hopefully we'll see other members begin to also share their experiences!