So, it's reached that time in the semester when it's time for me to say goodbye to the University of Idaho, (for now!).

I've had the most wonderful year at this school and really advocate it as a top choice for prospective students. It has everything from the teaching styles and teaching knowledge, access to resources, opportunities for volunteer involvement and extra-curricular activities - AND more. 

There are numerous options for accommodation and food catering on campus, or immediately around it in the community, (Patty's Mexican Kitchen is a MUST!).

And finally, the people. The people here are so much more than welcoming, they're happy that you are here and they're excited for what you can offer to the school, and develop in skills yourself. I've met the most incredible number of people, who I call my friends, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

So, it's adios from me. I've loved being a part of the Housing Internship. If you want to get involved, look out for the application towards the end of each semester on the University job site. It's a fantastic opportunity to work in a different environment to normal Uni. study, while having access to great resources and a fabulous support network.

I hope that my blog has helped some of you in a small way, or a big way, somehow! It's been great Idaho. 

Good luck to all who read this!

J 

A really interesting blog post written by Brooke Shaden. She deals with our perceptions of people as a result of online media and how it perhaps shapes false impressions, (not necessarily bad ones, but 'skewed' ones).

There are definitely too many of these '21 things to do before you eat that apple'.... butttttt.... they're a nice refresher to read over again.

This one is pretty neat.

Google Glass.

$1500 per first gen. pair.

Syncs via Bluetooth to your mobile.

Takes pics and video.

I had the chance to experience Google Glass for the first time earlier today in UI's Doceo Center on campus. Check it out: http://www.uidaho.edu/ed/academics/doceo-center

I think the glasses are ingenious as far as inventions go. The technology inside them is so small yet the quality of the photos and video is pretty decent.

Are they practical though? 

I found myself being very distracted by the 'holographic' Timeline that is like something straight out of a futuristic movie.

I remember a time when touchscreen mobiles were first introduced to the market and a good proportion of the market had trouble swiping. 

Therefore, I feel that Glass users would and undoubtedly will (as they become more available to the general population) simply get used to the Timeline's existence right in your vision-line. I did find myself having to consciously look down more to avoid staring into the Glass though.

Questions to ponder:

Will Glass affect people's eyesight long-term? (Eye-strain.)

From a reporting perspective, will they change the nature of the journalism game? Are they reliable? Is the quality good-enough for video?

Are they too much an invasion of privacy?

What's next after 'wearable technology'? I foresee Tattoo Parlours doing a great trade in 'skin-deep technology'. 

A brilliantly quick examination of what our lives could be like in the future. But realistically, this is what our lives are like NOW. 

What are memories any more?

What are we saving all this data for anyway?

Lana Del Rey'mazing has done it again.

I used to be a skeptic about her music when she first came out; I think the hype surrounding her blocked my ears too much.

But last year I discovered her talents for myself and have been a fan ever since. 

I feel like West Coast is timely with my upcoming trip around the West Coast at the end of my year here too!

Enjoy.