Lapdog Ropes Course Experience

The Lapdog rope course was an eye opening experience, one that was completely mentally and physically challenging for mind and body.  The multiple challenges that were thrown at us from about 60 feet in the air were frightening, but taught me a lot about leadership and team work.  A few people on my team automatically stepped up to the position of leadership and started working on a game plan to accomplish the tasks.  This was very beneficial in organizing a plan of action.  The course was very nerve-wrecking considering the height and rigor of the rope course and the challenges made sure that you had to rely on your teammates in order to “survive”.  For example, in one challenge I was blindfolded and had to jump from platform to platform while having to trust my teammates to guide me to safety.  It was difficult to build up trust for my teammates, because of the fear of falling.  However, with time I learned that they had my best interest in mind and really helped encourage me to succeed.  I had to learn to trust myself as well, so that they could rely on me as well.  It was an easier role for me to be the one trusting other people than being trusted, because I didn’t want to let my team down or let them fall.  When communicating as a group, I can improve my skills in giving feedback. Sometimes I wouldn’t voice my opinion of a plan and always just did what my other team members believed were best. I can apply the skills that I learned from the Lapdog fieldtrip in real workplace situations by stepping up to lead a team, learning how to receive and give feedback  and learning how to trust myself and others around me in important situations.  The adrenaline rush of being that high up and trying to not fall off was fun and exhilarating! I’m proud of myself for accomplishing such a feat!!

First Impressions

The "Getting to Know Your Mentor" handout along with the Making a Positive First Impression podcast eased my anxiety on what to do and how to behave, during my mentorship. The handout provided me with a few conversation starters that will help us to get to know each other more thoroughly and start a positive working relationship. Also, both confirmed that enthusiam and positivity for the mentorship will make a great first impression. Dressing professional and puntuality was also a key piece of advice. Most importantly asking questions, being friendly, working hard and providing insight will be my best attribute on the job. I can't wait to get started and meet my mentor!! :)