Gator Softball

Between football, basketball, and baseball, fans sometimes forget about Florida's top-notch softball program. Gator softball has had some remarkable seasons in recent years, including four College World Series appearances in the past five years. Even though I have been here for four years, I regret to say that I have never been to a women's softball game... until now. I finally found my way to Pressly Stadium to watch the Gators take on none other than the Florida State Seminoles. I will admit that the free t-shirt giveaway had a big part in luring me to the game, but there was such a huge turnout that I missed the free shirts. Turns out, Gator softball has a HUGE following and these ladies did not disappoint their fans. This game went into extra-innings and ended with a walk-off grand slam, giving the Gators a 7-3 victory over their in-state rivals. Although this was my first Gator softball game, I don't think it will be my last. If you're a softball or baseball fan, or even just an all-around Gator fan, this tradition will not let you down!

Gator Gymnastics

Whether or not you're a gymnastics fan, you have got to check out a Gator Gymnastics meet! And after all the hype surrounding the "Fierce Five" at the 2012 London Olympics, the sport of gymnastics probably has a huge influx of fans this season.

The Gator gymnasts are currently ranked Number TWO in the nation, and have a good chance of winning it all this year. The team even has a pair of Olympic athletes helping the Gators beat out the competition.

Students and families alike love watching these girls execute their high flying tricks, and incredible balancing acts. There's also usually great freebies at the meets like shirts or in our case, free pizza! As a little heads up for when you do decide to finally go to a gymnastics meet, make sure you pay very close attention to the Gator girls' floor routines- they like to incorporate the audience and a famous Gator tradition.

James "Rhio" O'Connor Memorial Scholarship Essay

In October of 2001, James Rhio O’Connor was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma at the age of 61. He was told he would less than a year to live and that surgery would not be an option because of the location of his tumor. He was also told that chemotherapy would only lessen his quality of life and not provide many benefits. Faced with such heartbreaking and shocking news, Rhio did not let this bring down his spirits or bring his life to a halt. Rather, he decided to take action and do an intense amount of research on the disease that was threatening his life.

            Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease in which mesothelium cells become abnormal and divide without control or order. Each year in the United States, there are over 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma, and studies have shown that white males are most prone to the disease. Most of these cases, including that of Rhio, are due to the exposure of asbestos. Asbestos generates from specific mineral groups and is often found in construction and fireproof materials.

            When I first read about Rhio’s story, I was so amazed and inspired by his reaction. Often times when we know of someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, they either begin the treatment recommended by their doctor right away, or they begin living their life with an expiration date in mind. Instead, Rhio decided he would take initiative and find ways to prolong his life, rather than simply enjoy what time he was given.  I think it takes an unbelievable amount of courage to and faith to stare death in the face and not let such paralyzing news affect one’s life. What I find even more inspiring is how he took the time to share his story with others as opposed to simply spending time enjoying his life. His book, They Said Months, I Chose Years: A Mesothelioma Survivor's Story, is a moving story for anyone faced with a dire cancer prognosis.

            Rhio’s inspiring story will motivate me to take similar actions if faced with the same challenges. Initially, I know the shocking news will lead me to seek comfort from family and close friends. However, I would not let a cancer prognosis stop me from living my life. More importantly, I would focus on adding years to the amount of time I am given. I would begin my research online, focusing on organizations and universities with extensive amounts of credible research. Some examples include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, and even Google Scholar.  I would then begin seeking advice from doctors around the country who specialize in the kind of cancer I am diagnosed with. Through several consultations, I will be able to accumulate a variety of opinions and alternative treatments. I think it is also important to take advantage of personal connections in situations like these. Between family and friends, several people are likely to have connections or know someone who knows someone who either dealt with a similar situation or is educated in this field.

            After collecting the research, discussing all possible options with loved ones, and considering financial circumstances, I would choose the best available treatment that is suitable for my situation. I would definitely look beyond the standard chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical options if they had little or nothing to offer in prolonging my life. Alternative treatments should be available to any patients who are willing to try them. I believe they are well worth considering and utilizing as an option. Personally, I believe that if a new treatment has the potential to provide a longer or healthier life, it is worth trying. If I am a cancer patient given a death sentence, what’s the worst that can happen? Even if the alternative treatments don’t work, doctors and other patients will be able to use my case as an example for further research in developing the treatment.

            I think more research and better availability of alternative treatments is necessary to improve progress in curing and preventing cancer, as well as giving people the greatest chance of survival. If more patients can participate in alternative approaches, then more cases will be available to researchers. However, none of this would be possible without the proper funding. Whether it is government funds, or organizational or private grants, every little bit towards cancer research helps. At the beginning of 2012, the American Cancer Society estimated that 1,638,910 people would be diagnosed with cancer that year. In addition to this amount, 577,190 were expected to die of cancer. This is an astounding number of lives, and something must be done to help find a cure.

            I believe James Rhio O’Connor is a hero for those who have faced life-altering challenges. His motivation, determination, passion, and faith, is something I could only hope to exemplify in life. Surviving with mesothelioma for more than seven years, when he was told he would have less than a year to live, is truly extraordinary. Rhio’s story is one to be shared for many years to come.

I'm Back!

Undergrad Graduation- 2012!

So I know it base been over a year since I last posted about the wonderful traditions that the University of Florida has to offer, and I must apologize. I got a little caught up with senior projects, graduation festivities, and applying to graduate school. But I am very happy to say that I am still a Gator!

Since last August, I have been in grad school here at UF and working hard towards another UF diploma- a Master's in Public Relations! Don't worry, I have still been taking part in countless UF traditions and will continue sharing my stories. However grad school is very different from undergrad, so please forgive me if I take a little bit longer between posts. Not only is graduate school a lot more work, it's A LOT more expensive!

Fortunately, I've been spending a lot of time research scholarships and my next post will be an essay I wrote for a very prestigious scholarship- the James "Rhio" O'Connor Memorial Scholarship. It truly is an inspiring story so I hope you all read it and enjoy!

Life As A UF Student Reporter

It’s hard to believe that the semester is already coming to a close and my time as a Gator undergrad is almost over. More importantly, my days as a student reporter in the College of Journalism and Communication will also come to an end. Over the past three years, I’ve had the opportunity to write for our Spanish radio news show, report for our NPR-affiliate radio station, and report for Florida’s 5 – WUFT TV. All these wonderful opportunities gave me hands-on experience of what life after graduation will be like.

I know how to pitch, write, shoot and edit both radio and TV pieces. And aside from all the technical aspects, I’ve learned about the pressures, tight deadlines, and relationships that come with being a reporter. I'll admit, there were times where I thought I was being over worked and having to put in ridiculous hours for reporting shifts or class projects. But no one ever said the life of a reporter was easy. I had to break in several pairs of shoes, build muscle when it came to carrying all that camera equipment around town, and put in a good couple hundred miles on my car-- all that just to get a story.

But being able to graduate students with a well-qualified demo-reel is something that the College of Journalism and Communications takes pride in. They also take pride in being a part of the latest and most innovative methods of communications and passing these skills along to their student- something made possible by the Center for Media Innovation and Research. Although the CMIR is still a work in progress, I’ve had the opportunity to experience the opening of its 21^st Century Newsroom and Laboratory. Once all the construction is completed, I know the result will be a state-of –the-art newsroom where students will learn the latest techniques being used in the media industry (truth be told, I’m a bit jealous of the younger students who will be able to take advantage of this).

  Although wrapping up my days as a Telecomm student at UF is a bit depressing, I am so thankful for everything I have learned and all the many experiences I have gained through the College of Journalism and Communications. Graduation will definitely be a bitter-sweet day, but I'm looking forward to crossing that stage and joining the prestigious circle of Gator Grads. Go Gators! 

there's only one MICHELLE SECADES

So it’s time to take a timeout from all the traditions and get to know a little more about me. However, I’m not going to write all about my professional background and telecomm experience. But for those of you interested in my education, experience and honors (future employers perhaps)… please take the time to review my resume.

Favorite Movie: Armageddon

Favorite Chick Flick: Titanic (yes, it’s a separate category)

Favorite Vacation Spot: Siesta Key, Sarasota 

Favorite 90s Band: NSYNC

Chocolate or Vanilla: CHOCOLATE

Pepsi or Coke: Coke

Summer or Winter: Summer (I’m from Florida!)

Moment that changed my life: Becoming a big sister... TWICE!

Random Fact: Voted "Most School Spirit" of my senior class in High School 

What I can't live without... The people I love

For more information on myself and the purpose of this blog, be sure to check out my very first blog post. 

Got Jobs?

It's hard to believe that graduation is only a month and a half away. It's such a bittersweet feeling to know that you're almost done with all the classes, assignments, projects and exams, but at the same time, you will be leaving so many friends who have become family in the past four years. Students may also feel rushed to accomplish everything on their college bucket list- including the countless UF traditions. But this time also reminds us of the short-coming "Real World." Job applications are on nearly every senior's mind these days. Luckily, I will be attending grad school next year so I can put the job searching off for a bit. However, I have am still applying for summer jobs and internships so I've had to keep my resume up-to-date. I'm hoping that all the connections I've made through internships will benefit me once I finish my Master's. But until then, I'm looking forward to enjoying my last few weeks as an undergrad here at UF.

Paynes Prairie

The past few weeks have had some interesting nights for stargazers. First, there were amazing Northern Lights that could be seen throughout the Northern part of North America, and last week I was able to spot Mars and Venus in close proximity at night. Although I was able to see the planets, the stars weren’t so easy to spot because of all the lights in my neighborhood back home. However, Gainesville has one of the most beautiful stargazing spots I’ve ever seen- Paynes Prairie. Although, it’s recently been in the news for all the fog and brushfires which caused an awful car accident on the Interstate, Paynes Prairie offers beautiful sights for students and families at the University of Florida. Just about 10 minutes South of campus, it’s a great place to go camping, ride your bike, or simply hang out with nature. I’ve had picnics in the park with my dance team and we had a great time looking for the wild animals in the area. And at night, the entire sky is filled with countless stars- honestly it’s breathtaking. I strongly suggest everyone take the time while they’re at UF to do something out of the ordinary and spend the day (or night) at Paynes Prairie.

Picture Courtesy of paynesprairie.net

Florida Baseball... Gainesville's Favorite Pastime

With all the hype surround March Madness this time of year, some may forget about another sport I hold near and dear to my heart… baseball! Thankfully that’s not the case at the University of Florida. The Gator’s baseball team is ranked NUMBER ONE in the nation and has been filling the stadium at every game this season. And this week they took on Florida State in the annual “Sunshine State Showdown” and came out victorious with a 9-2 win over the Noles (not surprised). Florida’s baseball team has always been a power-house when it comes to college baseball- making it to the NCAA National Championships for the past three seasons. And what’s great about the baseball games is that Gator fans of all ages can sit together and cheer on their beloved player. From babies who can’t even walk, to older couples well-into retirement, everyone can share a passion for Gator Baseball.

On a side note, the Florida Men’s Basketball team takes on Virginia tomorrow afternoon in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. 

UF Extreme Dance Co... Making Our Own Traditions

As you can probably tell throughout my blog, I believe that being a apart of the University of Florida means being a part of traditions that have lasted lifetimes. And we don't just stick to traditions known by the entire Gator Nation, we create traditions along the way. One of my personal traditions has been dancing with Extreme Dance Company every semester. We are a student organization on campus partially funded through the University of Florida Student Government. Every semester we have a show where all our friends and family can see what we've been working so hard on all semester. We also have sneak previews of these routines at events such as Dance Marathon. I initially joined Extreme because I missed dancing-having danced since the age of three, it's a hard hobby to give up. But eventually these girls became my family and I look forward to going to practice and getting a break from school. Honestly, joining extreme was one of the best traditions I could have ever started and I'm really going to miss dancing on stage with them after graduation.

If you're interested in joining Extreme, you can follow us on Twitter. We take people of all dance backgrounds, and even if you have no dance background we'll be happy to help. And as we always say... Extreme Love!

Level A backstage at our Spring 2011 Show

FTK... For The Kids

Probably the most well-known philanthropy at the University of Florida is our annual Dance Marathon. Sororities, Fraternities, student organizations, and individual students take part in this 26.2 hour long event. Proceeds from the event and all things DM, go towards the Children's Miracle Network at Shands Hospital at UF. Dancers have to stay on their feet the whole time which becomes quite a challenge around hour thirteen, but at least they have countless activities to keep them entertained along the way.  And the most popular of these activities is the Line Dance. Above is the 2011 DM Line Dance. Although I have never participated as a dancer, I have been a staff member at the event every year. Aside from being a UF tradition, Dance Marathon is an experience like no other. Seeing the crowds of students in their colorful attire all 26 hours, and hearing the stories of families that have been affected by the Children's Miracle Network is unbelievably touching. Once you've been a part of Dance Marathon, it's hard to stop. And if you're unable to physically participate in Dance Marathon, you can participate by learning about the event and donate to the cause. And remember... it's For The Kids.

Stuff Gator Fans Say...

So the latest youtube craze seems to be videos about "Stuff (Insert Stereotyped Click) Say." When I stumbled upon this one on Gator fans, I couldn't stop laughing. It's amazing to see how accurate of a portrayal this video is. What I love about it, and why I'm posting it to my blog, is that the main character mentions several Gator traditions or inside jokes that only a Florida Gator would understand... Go Gators!

... I Work Out

One thing I've noticed throughout my time at UF is how dedicated people are to working out. Personally, Inever really went to a gym before college because I was a dancer in high school and we have our own workout routines aside from daily practice. But even I have fallen victim to workout mania in college (I would much prefer that then the notorius "Freshman Fifteen"). With multiple gyms and a huge campus to run around, it's hard not to stay in shape. But I think one of the coolest ways to stay fit is running stadiums in "The Swamp." Although it's definitely one of the more exhausting workouts, I strongly suggest everyone do it before they graduate. I made it a point to have it on my college bucket list and I felt so accomplished when I finally ran up and down those countless bleachers. At any time on any given day, you'll probably find people running stadiums. It's also neat just to think that a place that's filled with 90,000 screaming Gator fans on Saturdays can be your own personal gym during the week. Added bonus... you'll probably spot an athlete or two while working on your fitness.

Would You Like Fries With That?

So if you’ve walked around campus, I’m sure you’ve noticed that there are a few things that may catch your attention or look out of place. Perhaps some of the most noticeable items are the giant French Fries outside of the Marston Science Library. I’m not sure if there’s an actual name for the huge artwork but ask anyone to point you towards the French Fries and they’ll know exactly what you’re talking about. I remember my first time coming across the over-sized yellow beams I was definitely caught off guard. But now, they seem to blend in with the setting. I’m pretty sure I’ve almost bumped into them a few times while trying to walk and text at the same time (something I don’t recommend doing on campus, especially with all the buses and bikers). But before I become completely immune to the giant fries, I asked my roommate to take a picture of me with the beloved landmark. Primarily to add it to my list of UF traditions, but it also served as a distraction from all the studying I was about to do in the library.

Florida Basketball... Fantastic!

Football isn’t the only big sport at UF, attending a spring sport is another Florida tradition. I attended this weekend’s men’s basketball game against Mississippi State, and what a game! The bulldogs came in ranked No. 18 and were sure to put up a fight against the Gators. But our boys played hard all afternoon and came out with a 69-57 victory in the O’Dome. I was surprised to see that there was such a huge turnout considering the game was at 1:30 in the afternoon, but it just goes to show you that you can’t mess with the Gator Nation.

FLORIDA/Georgia Weekend!!

When football season comes around, there’s no denying the excitement in and around “The Swamp” is unlike any other place in the Southeast. But the craziness of Gator football isn’t strictly confined to Gainesville. Perhaps one of the greatest Florida games takes place in Jacksonville during Florida/Georgia weekend- aka “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.” This was my second year in a row going to Jacksonville and the experience gets better every time. It’s a non-stop party throughout the city all weekend long. Although we lost the game, it was still an unbelievable feeling to be in the stadium with thousands of screaming fans and seeing the crowd split down the middle – half blue/orange, half red/black. I strongly believe that EVERYONE needs to experience Florida/Georgia weekend before they graduate from UF. It certainly lives up to its reputation as “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.”

(I took this picture at the 2011 game and although it looks like a beautiful and sunny day, it was absolutely freezing by the end of the game.)

University of Florida- The Best of The Best