April 09, 2014

Newfound Love for Tumblr

Social media sites have steadily been on the rise. From Instagram, to Twitter and then to Tumblr; I have so many that I really can’t choose my favorite. MyHealthImpact has trickled its way into Tumblr. Make sure you check that out. My love for Tumblr is growing.  I find a lot of interesting and informative things searching and scrolling my Dashboard.

I follow a majority of what Tumblr bloggers call Fitblrs. Fitblrs are health-related blogs, focused on as the name suggests, being fit. The first blog that I recommend following is AJourneyFullOfHealth. I love this blog because it caters to those on the journey to a healthy life. This blogger doesn’t go out of their way to make themselves seem like a health guru but in fact caters to the real college student struggling with making the right food choices and/or the person battling compulsive eating habits. Another blog that I recommend following is JustWeight-OnIt. This blog is also a Fitblr. I like this blog because it shows many healthy food options and meals. Also included are a few encouraging quotes to keep you going and motivated.

This next blog that I advise following is ProudBlackWoman. The bio for this blog simply states, “A celebration of all it means to be a Black woman”. As I scroll and discover what this blog has to offer, I see the faces of Ida B. Wells Barnett, Dr. Mae Jemison and Coretta Scott King to name a few. I have a love for this blog because to me it is seeking to keep the amazing women in Black History yet alive and unforgotten.

The last and final blog that I recommend following is HeavenRants. I really like this blog because they’re just who they are which in my eyes is relatable, random, loving the skin that they are in, prideful in being Black and a college student. My no means is this blog shoving information down your throat or over the top in any way; just chill and laid back.

These are just my Tumblr suggestions. By all means please check them out, follow them and seek other pages that may catch your eye or interests.

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April 08, 2014

Visit to Howard University

Graduation is quickly approaching and it’s time to decide what I’m going to do after I leave NC State. Graduate school is definitely my next move. Since Dr. Payton is truly invested in the future of her students, she scheduled a day where my friend Keiara and I could visit Howard University. Located in Washington DC, Howard is an extremely prestigious HBCU- which stands for historically black colleges and universities. The university currently ranks third in the nation for HBCUs to attend in the US. After being informed about this trip, I became excited to experience what a day at an HBCU feels like.

Upon arrival at Howard University, we were greeted by Dr. Morgan. She was very welcoming and definitely made me feel like family. One thing I can say that Dr. Morgan and Dr. Payton are both women of structure. They had an itinerary set up for Keiara and I to follow during our visit.  The first item on the list involved speaking to someone who worked in admissions for the School of Business. The woman who we spoke with was very informative and provided much insight on the different programs within the Business School. She also expounded upon Howard’s efforts in partnering with universities globally to encourage students to study abroad. I studied abroad the summer of my freshmen year at NC State and it was one of the best experiences in my life. I would definitely enjoy traveling again to study in another country while pursing my master’s degree. After the information session, we attended a “Wall Street on Campus” session. Though I got a little lost during the presentation, it was great to hear a company representative speak on various aspects of corporate business.  At the completion of the presentation, we went on a self-guided tour of campus. While on the tour, I met some of my fraternity brothers from the Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. It was also neat to see all of the fraternity and sorority plots in the center of campus. “The Quad” also called “The Yard” is Howard’s focal point and the center of campus life. This is similar to “The Brickyard” that we have at NC State. While on the tour, I met up with one of my friends who currently attends Howard. She showed us inside the fine arts department and took us into the art gallery, which really intrigued Dr Payton.

After we departed, we had lunch then got a chance to tour the Divinity School. The Divinity School is located about ten minutes away from main campus. Once we arrived there, we were welcomed by Ms. McDaniel. Alongside her were two current Master’s of Divinity students and one happened to be my fraternity brother. Both students gave Keiara and I a personalized tour of the facility and answered any questions we had. This was by far my favorite portion of the day because I’m seeking to obtain my Masters of Divinity once I graduate from undergrad. Right before we headed back to the airport, I was able to introduce myself to Dr. Pollard, III. He had a very genuine spirit and was knowledgeable about my home church that I grew up in as a child.

It truly means a lot when a professor invests their personal time into the lives of their students. Dr. Payton did just that for Keiara and I. I can’t thank her enough for the exposure and for the experience at Howard University. I will be submitting my application there for Divinity School. Who knows- I may be the one providing tours to prospective students in the future.

Follow @myhealthimpact on Twitter and myhealthimpact on Tumblr!

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March 27, 2014

Spotify: Intro to Kid Cudi

No one truly understands my obsession with Kid Cudi. And that is okay. But music is in the ear of the beholder. After taking some time to listen to his new album, Satellite Flight: The Journey to the Moon”, released February 25, 2014, I have to say that I am truly impressed. Though not your typical rap album, Kid Cudi introduces his listeners to futuristic acoustic sounds, with an out-of-this-world experience. After taking a couple years off, Kid Cudi has return with an album that I said was worth the wait. After taking the journey into space with him, three songs stood out to me—Copernicus landing (instrumental), Troubled Boy, and Bailman Jeans. These songs demonstrate how versatile his musical craft is. Below are excerpts from two of the songs and my interpretation of the lyrics. I definitely think if you haven’t already, you should take the time to listen to this new album. When I need to get away from life’s unexpected events and troubles, I can always depend on a Kid Cudi song.

Troubled Boy

“So it seems

For Troubled Boy, I believe Kid Cudi is realizing that nobody wants a “Troubled Boy” anymore. He is finally learning from all his experiences and mistakes, and finally making the transition into growing up and thinking at a higher level. Sometimes self-evaluation is essential for us to grow and develop into the person we are suppose to be. Our past shapes our future! To live a healthy and sane lifestyle, one has to be happy, first with oneself. That is so we can build healthy relationships with others.

Bailman Jeans 

“Hope you can feel the vibe
The vibes of the night
In my arms
We're under the stars

It's been so long, been such a hobby
Finding someone who electrifies my body
I need you to protect my heart...”

For Bailman Jeans, I believe Kid Cudi is letting his guard down and expresses his inner feelings and emotions for a woman he is involved with. Though he mentions it’s been a hobby for him to “entertain” multiple women, he has found something about her that electrifies him. Even though he also scared about exposing his heart, he wants to go to a place he has never been to, love. I think love is a remedy for healthiness too. Love brings out the best in people sometimes. You are able to face your fears and work through all your trail and tribulations. Love conquers all.

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March 20, 2014

College-Age Generation and the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare)

In February 2014, @myhealthimpact and @medicalmentors held a Twitter chat (#MedTechImpact) to discuss the importance of the Affordable Care Act (#ACA)for the college-aged population.  The chat included experts from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Howard University, Booz Allen Hamilton and the Maryland County Department of Health and Human Services.

Topics included: common misconceptions about the Affordable Care Act; finding #ACA online information; why should college students and the college-age population have health care coverage; advantages and disadvantages of the Act.  We also discussed how the Act encourages workforce development diversity among medical and health providers as well as information and computing technologists.

The infographic below can be found on the myhealthimpactnetwork.org site and/or here directly and lists some key facts regarding the #ACA.  The word cloud shows the keywords from the chat including students, health, college, join, patient and tech.  As discussed during the Twitter chat and shown in the infographic, the #ACA will:

• Enable young people to stay on their parents’ health insurance until age 26.
• Provide coverage for preventive care.
• Provide preventive care and screenings for #HIV, #depression, #diabetes and many others.
• Provide care even for those with pre-existing conditions.

The final day to register for health coverage is March 31, 2014.  #GetCovered. Check out the details for yourself.  Inform. Educate and empower yourself.  See https://www.healthcare.gov/young-adults/

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March 20, 2014

Vignette on Income and Wealth

This past weekend, I had the chance to listen to an informative presentation by our very own Dr. Payton. This presentation was held during the NSBE Comfort Zone Summit at NC State University. The presentation was about financial responsibility and learning the real difference between income and wealth. I would say the general message I took away from her presentation was the creation and preservation of generational wealth. This is especially important to me, since I am a first generation American and my roots don’t run too deep in the U.S.

This information was presented to college students both grad and undergraduate. The way Dr. Payton presented had the audience’s full attention. This level of interest is what myHealthImpact needs when it comes to promoting conversation among students.  After the presentation students definitely wanted more information on what they can do to be more financially responsible. They wanted so much more information that NC State Chapter on NSBE will be working with her in the future for more insightful workshops.

*The Budget Worksheet that was passed out during the workshop

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March 09, 2014

Expectations for Women’s Empowerment

The name “Women’s Empowerment” alone implies that the event will consist of mainly women who aspire to be empowered by some sort. There are some men, including myself, who I’m sure will be attending and also would benefit from this experience. As the date gets closer, the anticipation draws near of what to expect at this well-known event.

Tyler Perry, an American director, screenwriter and actor is scheduled to be the keynote speaker for Women’s Empowerment. I am looking forward to hearing his words of wisdom and learning more about his personal success story. Due to the fact that I enjoy gospel music, I’m excited to hear artists such as Jessica Reedy, Byron Cage and the legendary Pastor John P Kee.  Along with the numerous seminars and workshops that are scheduled to take place, I’m ready to see how the fashion show will turn out. I have a friend who will be modeling in the show so it will definitely be great seeing him walk on the runway.

One of the concerns I have is being a male attending an event that is geared towards empowering women. Women’s Empowerment was established in commemoration of Women’s History Month. Therefore, the goal is to accentuate the lives of African American women by touching on issues that affect them holistically as women. I hope not to seem “out of place” amongst thousands of women as I’m sure that I will stand out. The fact that thousands of African American women will be unified together in positive light will be a wonderful sight to see. Overall, I’m greatly anticipating all of the things Women’s Empowerment has to offer. As I mentioned earlier, I’m sure that I will be able to benefit from this event, even as a male.

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March 09, 2014

Initial Thoughts: Women’s Empowerment 2014

When I hear the word empowerment, I automatically think uplifting. I feel like I can accomplish absolutely anything. To add the word women beside empowerment, I think of black women…women in general feeling like we are on top of the world. I believe that in many areas and arenas, women are overlooked and cast down to being inferior to our male counterparts. Women are strong, hardworking, the wife, the mother, the sister, the friend, the businesswoman, the doctor, the lawyer; the person wearing many hats. 

I’m looking forward to sitting in the PNC Arena with thousands of women that wear these many hats that have the desire to be encouraged so that they can walk out into the world and do great things. I’m excited to hear the keynote speaker, Tyler Perry, hearing musical guests such as Chrisette Michele and just being in the number.

I’m hoping for Women’s Empowerment to live up to every aspect of its name. I would like to see Women’s Empowerment uplift, be a motivator to those needing motivation and refreshing to those that need to be reminded that they can be greater than just great.

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March 06, 2014

The TURN UP: Spring Break Safety

With Spring Break literally around the corner, college students everywhere, and I mean EVERYWHERE are gearing up to travel to distance and tropical places to soak up some sun and jump in the water. While most students are only concentrating on getting that last minute workout in for washboards abs or purchasing their last minute wardrobe findings, I guarantee no one is thinking about STDs!

Instead, most college students are thinking about fun, alcohol and parties. Don’t get me wrong, nothing is wrong with having fun and of course making lifetime memories, BUT be SMART about it! Don’t forget about your morals and values, or should I say “home training”. Have “responsible” fun.  Yes, spring break is about having a good time and getting away from the books, but don’t be naive. 

Drink Responsibly

Personally, do yourself a favor and party smart. Pace yourself if you choose to drink, and avoid hard alcohol if you can or other drinks that are powerful and have fast effects—cause drunks make for “easy targets”. 

According to a study by the University of Wisconsin, 75 percent of college males and 43 percent of females reported being intoxicated on a daily basis during spring break. Which brings me to another point of discussion; don’t let alcohol blur the lines of love! There is no such thing as “I want to get to know you” or “love at first sight” during spring break! Just lust, deceitful lies, and sexual transmitted diseases! So, be smart and not STUPID!

Stay Safe: Safe Sex, Know Your Facts and Know Your Status

The only 100% sure way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases is by not having sex. If you choose to have sex with a stranger—which isn’t best idea—use something called   “condoms”. We are college students, so this should not be hard.  Stock up on protection before you leave home so you never find yourself in a compromised situation. If this isn’t enough for you, here are the facts:  Women are more likely to be victims of sexual violence than men. Women who experience both sexual and physical abuse are significantly more likely to have sexually transmitted diseases. Take precautions and avoid situations or persons that may place you at risk for harm. Decide before even going on spring break what you’re willing to do, and then get to work setting your boundaries early and often. If you meet someone and decide to shack up, be up front with him or her if sex isn’t in the plan. Maybe something like, “Hey good lookin’. I’ve had fun this evening, but no sex tonight.” But seriously, don’t ever let anyone talk you into doing something you’re uncomfortable with. 

Keep Safe and Hang With Your Friends

Lastly,  “if you go out with your friends, go home with your friends.” It’s one of those things that keeps you a whole lot safer, and eliminates the bad, ugly, and stupid drama. This way you can look out for one another, and get a friend home who is too intoxicated to be out. So this spring break, think a little bit before you act! I’m sure that one week of fun is not worth your life! Don’t turn up too much, so that you look like a fool!

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March 06, 2014

Are Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) still a taboo subject?

Sexually Transmitted Diseases, STDs, have become a topic of discussion that many people feel uncomfortable talking about and try not to think about them, hoping they will go away. As of now there are more than 25 diseases that are transmitted sexually. The organisms, which can cause these diseases usually, enter the body through mucous membranes—such as the surfaces of the vagina, urethra, anus, and mouth.

Listing of Common STDs

• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Chlamydia
• Herpes
• Hepatitis

How are Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STDs) Caught?

Sexually transmitted diseases can be caught through intimate contact with someone who is infected, especially during oral, anal, or vaginal sex. However, some infections are also transmitted nonsexually. Sexually active college-age men and women are at the highest risk for contracting STDs. With that said, it is important for college students to use protection and get tested regularly.

Symptoms of STDs can be unnoticeable and can lead to more issues if not treated. As adults, it is our responsibility to stay educated on the topic of STDs and continue to utilize health institutions for help and guidance.

If that isn’t enough motivation for you, below are some examples of STDs and images of their effects. I hope this information gives you the courage to help spread the awareness of this issue and practice safe sex, as well as, getting tested.

Pictures of Common STDs

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March 04, 2014

Recline Vs. “Leaning In” Meaning for STEM Education & Careers?

What: Twitter Chat Moderator for Big Beacon #bigbeacon

When: March 5, 2014 at 8pm EST

Where: Follow us on Twitter @myhealthimpact and Dr. Payton's personal Twitter account @drfayonline.

See myhealthimpactnetwork.org on the web and follow on Twitter @myhealthimpact.  Follow Dr. Payton at her personal Twitter account @drfayonline.

Facebook Chief Operating Officer, Sheryl Sandberg, has offered one perspective to address question of inclusive of women in the workplace.  Her book, Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead, speaks to family life and work balance.  I am still unsure about the term “balance”.  Rather, I see the notion as one of “integration” informed and/or influenced by intersectional dimensions of race, gender, class, first-generation, sexual orientation, etc. Yet, Lean In, also speaks to the need for women to take charge of their careers and push forward despite the “isms” that can and do exist.  If you need a brief summary of the book, see this Lean In blogspot.

Many have found Sandberg’s call as placing the burden of change on women, speaking to the privileged and failure to recognize the nuisances’ women of color in the discourse. As Rosa Brooks of The Washington Post stated in her February 25, 2014 article, Sandberg connects to those with the resources to navigate, as she says, “all this Leaning In”.  Brooks suggests that women should “recline” instead.

In STEM, I am interested to learn how can Lean In impact the education and career trajectories of those doing the leaning.  If the text is indeed focused on women, what are the roles of men in the workplace, both academic and industry?  This Twitter Chat links to the Big Beacon Manifesto: “The whole new engineer is authentically connected to with others”. Further, the manifesto encourages engineering education to embrace young people as whole-bodied and whole-brained individuals.  The status quo will not go easily, but go it must.”

Questions to consider for the Twitter Chat that makes for an interesting discussion:

1. How do you view the “Lean In” concept?
2. How have you encouraged underrepresented and female students to “Lean In”?
3. How is STEM different that other fields, and how can this impact STEM educational leadership views of those who “Lean In”?
4. What biases (if any) result when women and underrepresented minorities “Lean In”?
5. What are the potential penalties and rewards of leaning in for women, women of color and underrepresented groups?
6. How can STEM education and the workplace better foster a “Lean In” approach?
7. How can this concept be use to foster and support STEM leadership roles among women and underrepresented groups?
8. What are your thoughts on “reclining”?

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