As the semester winds down, we still have important information to share with you.  

More now than ever do I/we need a pause button to press to allow time for aimless gazing, reflection, guidance seeking from the spiritual realm, strategizing plans of execution, sense making, and feeling present.

Inhale…1, 2, 3…Exhale. Inhaling all that’s good in the world. Exhaling the nonsense, irrelevant, space invading, and toxic. Semester’s end is rapidly approaching, which means stress levels are starting to rise as we think about and face head-on all that we are currently enthralled in and bracing for the things to come. My gosh there’s more to come! When will it end? Inhale…1, 2, 3…Exhale. 

I often joke about needing to display a sign in my office that says “Pause.” More now than ever do I/we need a pause button to press to allow time for aimless gazing, reflection, guidance seeking from the spiritual realm, strategizing plans of execution, sense making, and feeling present. A daily exercise for me is to show up and be present in mind, body, and spirit. I don’t want these moments to pass me by and I not be able to notice things as simple as the beauty of the color purple. 

Weighted in trials and tribulations, challenges, the unknown, and circumstance has the power to drain us, consume our daily thoughts, and confuse our mind that “this is life,” “this is normal,” so get used to it. I refuse and you should too. I challenge you/me/us during these stressful times to make space for simple joys like taking a walk, listening to music, meditating, cooking, playing, carving out guilt-free time for family and friends, sleeping, being selfish with our time, and breathing. Inhale…1, 2, 3…Exhale. 

We are at our best when we are refreshed, refueled, and able to think clearly about our current situations and what’s awaiting us. This isn’t novel, but sometimes we need someone or something to remind us. Yes, you still need to write that paper, read those articles, study for that exam, work that shift, prepare for that presentation, attend that meeting, and care for loved ones. But, you can also plan to attend Mason Day, watch Cochella/Beychella YouTube videos on repeat, bake treats for the office staff, grab lunch with friends or colleagues in the JC, check-in with yourself by speaking to a mental health professional, and walk around Patriot Circle feeling the sun on your skin. Let’s not sacrifice everyday experiences of joy because of our stressors. Stress is inevitable, but it’s not all that this life has for us. I’m convinced of that. Breathe. Inhale…1, 2, 3…Exhale.

We have several new paid positions available for students this week.  Scroll down for details and links!

Arlington Parks and Recreation is accepting applications for Spring Aquatic staff through Friday, March 23, 2018. Information and application is available here.

Fairfax Department of Neighborhood and Community Services:

Looking for challenging and rewarding work? The Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is now seeking staff for its Afterschool Program.

Facilitators plan, prepare, and lead community center activities that are age and ability appropriate. Work collaboratively to plan and organize activities/programs that focus on prevention and are based on community needs. Implement programming techniques that serve a multi-cultural and economically diverse population. Leads scheduled activities, encouraging full participation, enjoyment, and group involvement that meet the desired outcomes. Facilitator will be accountable for quality of programs provided to the community participants. Assist in the marketing of programs and outreach to the community. Provides leadership and ensures the safety of all center participants. Interacts positively, supportively, and reassuringly with the participants; acts as role model and mentor. Community Centers are particularly interested in candidates that have skills in the areas of educational tutoring, art, theatre, music education, science, cooking, graphic design, costume design and sports.

Responsibilities and Duties

*   Provides program support to staff and participants

*   Provides assistance with volunteers and diverse community members

*   Facilitates daily activities and assists with program planning

*   Provides participant supervision

Qualifications and Skills

Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to high school graduation or G.E.D.; plus experience working with youth, adults and families

*   Must have or be able to obtain CPR and First Aid (child and adult) certification

*   Must have previous experience working with children in a group setting

*   Must be 18 or older and have a Drivers license

Hours: Work hours vary from 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., weekdays and some weekends hours depending on community center. Extended hours may be required to meet program goal and expectations

Special Requirements: The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and a check of the Child Protective Services Registry to the satisfaction of employer.

Preferred Qualifications: Capable of driving a 12-passenger (non-CDL) shuttle bus. Bilingual. Experience working with youth in educational and recreational settings.

Job Type: Part-time

Salary: $12.52 /hour

Contact: Maria Rodriguez Antezana at [email protected] to apply.

Mason Athletic Training Society (MATS) is raffling off a Kaplan Scholarship, which includes a 100% free Kaplan course for any professional exam. The value of the Kaplan scholarship is up to $2499. The funds MATS generates will go towards future club events (i.e. professional conferences and social events). 

The raffle ticket sales will be held on Monday, April 2 at the JC KIOSK D from 2 pm – 4 pm and Thursday, April 5 at Southside Kiosk from 1pm – 4pm. MATS will be accepting cash transactions only. Ticket prices will be 1 ticket for $5, 3 tickets for $10, 6 tickets for $20, 20 tickets for $50, and 50 tickets for $100.