getting the hang of this

So far in marketing class, I have learned that a blog should:

• share a compelling story
• align with my mission
• be informally written
• be updated consistently
• offer varying types of media (images, videos, links)
• elicit emotional connections
• keep the reader coming back for more

I can say for sure that my blog does not reflect the all of the best practices YET.... but I will work on it. A big part of the problem is that I lack a real mission aside from getting an "A" in the class.  I thought it would be able my life of transitions: southerner to mid-westerner, full-time employee to full-time student, beignet to brisket... but I am finding it difficult to create content.  Are you interested in reading about my part-time job? what I am learning in class? my exercise routine? all of the delicious foods Jake prepares for me? the inadequacies of the apartment complex I live in?

Please take a moment to share with me in the comments what you are interested in reading about and I will do my best to keep you entertained!

what's in a name?

since i moved to kansas city, i have been shocked by the number of people who mispronounce my last name.  "zoller" always seemed pretty straightforward.  sarah (my twin sister) has always been very clever, witty, and she loves to give herself nicknames.  "zollercoaster" stuck.  I would tell people about the nickname to give them a laugh - not to teach them how to actually pronounce the name correctly. should i borrow the nickname to give people in kansas city a hint?  in high school and college, it was cute to offer a ride on the zollercoaster (neither of us had a clue what that meant then,) but i'm not sure I willing to risk a proper pronunciation for a good first impression.

in my new city, i may wince a little but be mostly grateful when my new acquaintances decide to holler at this zoller.

first blog post...ever

in the past few months, i have experienced many firsts: first finance class, first Chiefs game, first authentic bbq sandwich, first time driving in snow. 

and now, it's time for another first - writing a blog. the idea of recording my own thoughts has been pretty unappealing.  why would i ever want to subject others to my repetitive, analytical, sometimes cynical, over-emotional, self-deprecating thoughts?  well, i'm not sure that i do but beginning a blog is a requirement for one of my spring classes.  

firsts are a great opportunity to push your own personal boundaries and grow. i hope this blog will keep you (my friends and family) up-to-date with my new life in kansas city, and also teach me to be more reflective than reactive.