More Adventures in Chi-town

With TCI training behind me, I am finally working full shifts on the unit with the kids! On Monday and Friday I worked the morning shift (7-3:30). Waking up at 5:30 wasn't as bad as I feared; I almost enjoyed getting up that early (key word: almost); must be my dad's blood in me. The shifts went well; yesterday I was able to spend some 1:1 time with a couple of the kids. Now that I have been around for a couple of weeks and know the routine for the most part, I feel like my role has shifted more from observer to staff, which I am very happy about. In fact, yesterday one of the clients, who was slightly frustrated when I redirected him from what he was not supposed to be doing, commented, "Man, you are starting to sound like a staff!" I took it as a compliment. The kids are great; I am really enjoying getting to know each of them as individuals. I meet with my supervisor weekly to discuss how things are going and what else I would like to do during my time at Rice. One of the things I am doing is focusing on one kid each week, getting to know that particular kid, and doing 1:1 activities with him. I am super excited about this. :)
On Tuesday I had one last day of orientation; this time it was at the main Children's Home + Aid office (CHA is the head organization over Rice). We learned all about the history of the organization, other services that are offered, professional boundaries, and employee benefits. Most of it was rather interesting.
I had my first social work seminar and Values and Vocations classes this week. I have a feeling both with be beneficial, academically and personally. There are 5 other social work majors and an instructor in my social work seminar. Each Monday night we meet to discuss things that are going on at our particular sights, as well as other social-worky (I made up that word) stuff. In the Values and Vocations class we will be discussing the relationship between personal calling and social conscience using "insights from modern psychology, scripture, liberation theology, and the mystical traditions of the world" (quote from syllabus). I look forward to the class readings and discussions.
On Thursday night we had our first art event. Chicago Semester students had the opportunity at the beginning of the semester to sign up and pay a very cheap price for weekly art events, which I did. This week we attended two performances at the Goodman Theatre. They were both one acts on the topic of loss and reflection. I cannot honestly say I enjoyed the event this week, but it was kind of a cool experience.
Last night, one of the CS students won a party at a dueling piano bar called "Howl at the Moon" and invited all of the CS students. It was fun to hang out with the other CS students and enjoy the entertainment, free food, and cheap drinks. I ended my Friday night watching "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" with Sara. I must say, it is quite funny. If you looking for a light, unique movie that is good for both kids and adults, I would recommend it. :)
For the rest of the weekend, I must complete my Learning Contract (contract between me, my supervisor at Rice, and my field instructor on the things I want to do during my internship) and other homework for classes. I hope to do some exploring as well and attend the Chinese New Years Parade in Chinatown tomorrow. :)
Have a great weekend. :)