Dear Journal,

Well, the end of the semester is right around the corner. Just about a week left of classes, and then we dive right into finals. (Best of luck to everyone! Finish this. You can do it.)

This past week I had proud moments, along with nerve-racking ones. Reflecting back, overall, last week was one of my favorite weeks this semester.

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I received an email early last week stating I had been selected for an interview with the FBI as part of phase 2 in the application process for an honors internship with the Federal Bureau of Investigation this summer. I contemplated not writing about this due to the possibility I don't get the internship, but I realized it was such an honor to even be chosen for an interview so why not include it in my journal. The interview was telephonic, meaning it was facilitated over the phone. It took place on Thursday at 11am sharp. The whole morning consisted of me researching different points to talk about (just in case), rehearsing what I would say in response to certain questions, and panicking. Lots of it.

I wanted to include this opportunity that I was given in my writing for this week because within the structure of the interview I was asked to reflect on my work and personal experiences. I was able to include a lot about SASP and my mentees, both FYS and Non-FYS, that I've taken under my wing.

What frustrates me the most is as I'm writing about this I'm thinking of so many things I could've said that would've made my candidacy stronger. Now it's just a waiting game...once again.

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One event that is rapidly approaching is that of the 9th Annual First Year Student Showcase, which is taking place this coming Thursday, December 8th! The professor I work with has dedicated the next few classes, as well as last Tuesday and Thursday, to showcase prep, which includes each team presenting their research to the class as practice. Of those I saw already, I am so proud of all the work they put in to their projects. They look great! While presenting, one of my students acknowledged the professor and I for the help and support we provided them throughout the semester. I couldn't help but smile because it was really poignant. I'm really happy to have heard I helped them accomplish things that seemed a bit challenging at the beginning. To see how far my students have come, not only academically but also socially (getting involved on campus through sports, clubs, research opportunities, interest in on-campus jobs, etc.), is phenomenal. They are an amazing group of students, and they all have bright and promising futures ahead of them.

Quick Note: I sent out the weekly email tonight and received an email back from one of my mentees. She said "I love you." Awwww.

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I also noticed that the John Jay ACE Program, of which I am part, posted a picture I submitted to them, as well as a brief statement I wrote regarding my job at SASP, on Instagram as part of my November Engagement Activity Report.

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Showcase prep from the SASP coach perspective has been fun! The days leading up to the showcase involve the peers mounting the posters onto the display boards. I have learned the art of swanning. A big and valuable lesson - not only for this, but for life. I thought it would be a bit more hectic during this time, since there are a lot of posters that need to be sorted through and mounted. However, everything seems manageable, and it's all getting done in a timely manner.

Can't wait to actually take the time to see all of the research done at the showcase in a few days!

Until next time,

Samantha