Autumn is almost here! It's starting to cool down in the city, nothing to worry about though, my room here at the 1760 Third Ave. Residence has great heating -- and it's eco-friendly too. It's kind of funny to think how fast this semester is flying by. I can remember August like yesterday and I'm sure that before I know it Christmas will be here. Not to fret though, I enjoy the pace here at LIM. It's a perfect example of how the fashion industry works. Fashion groups around the world work 6 months in advance so, of course, learning to work quickly will be beneficial.  
 
LIM is buzzing with busy bees as this week marks mid-semester with all sorts of exams and projects. Luckily, most professors will take you step by step through assignments, so things have been running smoothly. Also, Student Life does a fantastic job of creating community programs, which I think are great stress relievers. They're fun, enlightening, and they always provide food! Next month I'll be working hand-in-hand with my art professor and the Office of Student Life to create a Hispanic Heritage Month community-building program that will feature Latin artists from around the world. It should be a hefty task but I can't describe how excited I am to do this. I won the opportunity through Student Life when I entered one of their many contests. The prize was two tickets to In the Heights, a Broadway show, which was amazing.
 
It seems like New York City is a bit busier than usual too. Just the other week I went to an art gallery. The artist combined kinetic art, oil painting, and water colorings into one show. It was just so inspirational -- and free too. Tomorrow should be a very exciting day. I have school in the early morning, then my internship and then back to school for some exams. To end my afternoon, I'll be going to the Museum of Art and Design, which just opened last week. Tomorrow, the museum will have an event where the artists will be there to discuss their work and I just can't wait. Great work, great artists, and a great crowd. It's free too!

Until next time!

Juan Rodriguez