Sammie joins me this week to reflect on her eventful year. We discuss her recent car accident and lessons learned from navigating the car-buying process, focusing on reliable options like Honda Civics and Subarus. Sammie also shares her experiences as a high school library paraprofessional, offering insights into working with teens and the role of technology in education. We delve into online job hunting, using tools like Indeed and ChatGPT for resume building, and explore the blend of Mac and PC technology in schools. Join us for a conversation about growth, career development, and the evolving role of tech in everyday life. Thanks for listening!

Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg630

Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #630 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.

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Links

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Chapters

[0:07] Introduction to Home Gadget Geeks
[5:42] Car Shopping Journey
[9:55] Career Updates and Reflections
[14:26] Job Hunting Insights
[21:27] Resume Tips with AI
[24:31] Technology in the New School
[32:01] Transitioning to Mixed Ecosystems
[37:49] The Future of Software Compatibility
[44:12] Reflections on Technology and Life
[50:52] Closing Remarks and Next Steps

Extended Outline

• Home Gadget Geeks Show Introduction and Housekeeping[0:00]
  • Jim Collison introduces the show, mentioning the date and location, and thanks Patreon subscribers for their support.
  • Jim encourages listeners to use the Amazon affiliate link on the site for holiday shopping.
  • Jim announces Christian’s return next week to celebrate 14 years of the show and requests listeners to leave dad jokes via audio on the show’s website.
  • Jim welcomes Sammie Collison to the show, noting their traditional Friday night catch-up sessions.
• Sammie’s Accident Update and Car Shopping Experience[3:02]
  • Sammie shares that she is recovering well from her accident, with no broken bones or internal bleeding, and is now shopping for a new car.
  • Sammie discusses the lessons she has learned about vehicle history, including checking for previous accidents, transmission types, and recalls.
  • Sammie mentions her brother Tim, a mechanic, has been helping her with car-related information.
  • Sammie is considering various car options, including Honda Civics, Subarus, and Hyundai Elantras, aiming for a 2015 model.
• Job Transition and New Role at the High School[9:59]
  • Sammie recounts her job transition from the Bellevue Public Library to a library para position at a local high school.
  • Sammie describes her new role, which involves managing the library space and students, and the benefits of a full-time job with career growth opportunities.
  • Sammie shares her experience of job hunting, the challenges of balancing multiple job offers, and the importance of patience.
  • Sammie discusses her plan to complete a library science degree online while working full-time.
• Technology in the New School Library[25:06]
  • Sammie describes the new school library, which includes a classroom space with tiered seating and a projector, and a social space for students.
  • The library is equipped with numerous outlets and tables, reflecting the shift towards more digital resources and fewer physical books.
  • Sammie mentions the transition from a PC to a Mac ecosystem in the school, which presents some technical challenges but also opportunities.
  • Sammie highlights the importance of cloud-based software and the convenience of accessing tools from any device.
• Personal Tech and Workflow Adjustments[28:32]
  • Jim and Sammie discuss their mixed-ecosystem setup, with Jim using a Mac Mini, Windows PCs, Android tablet, and iPhone.
  • Sammie shares her experience with using a Mac for work and a PC for personal tasks, and the challenges of connecting to school printers.
  • Jim and Sammie talk about the benefits of using the right hardware for specific tasks and the evolving nature of tech compatibility.
  • Sammie mentions the importance of protecting expensive devices like iPhones and the surprising lack of care from high school students.
• Final Thoughts and Future Plans[50:32]
  • Sammie reflects on her journey from a part-time library job to a full-time position with benefits, and the importance of patience and persistence.
  • Jim and Sammie discuss the future of technology, including the potential for electric vehicles and the ongoing transition to cloud-based software.
  • Sammie shares her plan to continue her education while working full-time, aiming for a balanced approach to career and personal growth.
  • Jim wraps up the show, reminding listeners of upcoming episodes and encouraging them to join the Discord group for more discussions.

More from Chat GPT

Central High School in Omaha, Nebraska, boasts a rich and storied history as one of the oldest and most prestigious high schools in the region. Located at 124 North 20th Street, it is renowned for its striking architecture, strong academic traditions, and an enduring legacy of excellence in education. Here’s a detailed account of its history:

Origins and Early Years

• Beginnings as the Nebraska Territory Capitol (1857): The site where Central High School stands today originally housed the Nebraska Territory Capitol building. After Nebraska achieved statehood in 1867 and the state capital moved to Lincoln, the building was repurposed.
• Transition to Education (1869): The former capitol building was transformed into Omaha High School, marking the city’s first dedicated public high school.

Reconstruction and Renaming

• New Building (1872): The old capitol structure was replaced by a new building to better accommodate the growing student population.
• Omaha Central High School (1912): A fire destroyed much of the previous building, and construction began on the iconic, Beaux-Arts-style structure that remains today. Designed by John Latenser Sr., it was completed in 1912 and renamed Omaha Central High School.

Growth and Development

• Academic Excellence: Over the decades, Central High became known for its rigorous academic programs, including honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Diverse Student Body: Located in the heart of Omaha, the school has long served a diverse population, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage.
• Extracurricular Achievements: Central’s extracurricular programs, including athletics, arts, and music, have earned statewide and national recognition. The school’s football, basketball, and track teams, among others, have won numerous championships.

Architectural Significance

• Beaux-Arts Design: The current building, completed in 1912, is an architectural gem featuring grand columns, intricate detailing, and a commanding presence atop a hill overlooking downtown Omaha.
• Preservation Efforts: Central High remains a well-maintained historic structure, with ongoing renovations to preserve its architectural integrity while updating facilities for modern education.

Notable Alumni

Central High School has produced a number of distinguished alumni across various fields, including:

• Gerald Ford: 38th President of the United States (attended but graduated from South High School after moving).
• Marion Crandell: The first American woman killed in active duty in World War I.
• Warren Buffett: The legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.

Modern Era

• Academic Innovations: Central High has continued to evolve, incorporating technology and new teaching methods while maintaining its academic traditions.
• Community Involvement: The school actively engages with the Omaha community, hosting events and programs that foster civic pride and educational outreach.
• Athletic and Artistic Excellence: Central’s teams and arts programs continue to earn accolades, contributing to its status as a powerhouse in Nebraska education.

Legacy

Central High School stands as a symbol of Omaha’s commitment to education, blending historic charm with modern innovation. Its alumni and achievements reflect the lasting impact of its educational mission on the local community and beyond.

In 2019, Central High School in Omaha added a new wing to its historic campus to address the evolving needs of its students and enhance its facilities. This addition served several purposes, reflecting a commitment to modern education while respecting the school’s rich heritage. Here are the key features and uses of the new wing:

Purpose and Features of the 2019 Wing

1. STEM Education Expansion:
   • The new wing included modernized science labs, technology spaces, and classrooms to support a stronger focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
   • These facilities provided students with hands-on, state-of-the-art learning environments to explore subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, robotics, and computer science.
2. Improved Accessibility and Inclusivity:
   • The design incorporated improved accessibility features, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
   • Elevators, ramps, and other accommodations made the entire school more inclusive for students with disabilities.
3. 21st-Century Learning Spaces:
   • Flexible classrooms and collaborative spaces were added to support modern teaching methods, including group projects, interdisciplinary learning, and digital integration.
   • Advanced technology was installed, such as smart boards, digital projectors, and wireless connectivity, to facilitate interactive and innovative instruction.
4. Additional Student Resources:
   • The wing included expanded counseling and resource offices to better serve the diverse needs of Central’s student body.
   • Dedicated spaces for academic advising and mental health support reinforced the school’s commitment to student well-being.
5. Fine Arts and Extracurricular Enhancements:
   • The new wing also contributed to fine arts programs, with updated rehearsal spaces for music, theater, and visual arts.
   • Additional multipurpose rooms provided flexible areas for extracurricular activities, meetings, and events.
6. Historical Preservation and Modern Integration:
   • Care was taken to blend the new construction with the architectural style of the historic building, maintaining Central High’s iconic aesthetic.
   • The addition honored the school’s history while looking forward, seamlessly integrating modern functionality.

Impact on the School

The 2019 wing represented a significant investment in Central High’s future, ensuring that students had access to top-tier facilities and resources. It allowed the school to remain competitive with newer institutions while retaining its unique charm and character. This addition reaffirmed Central’s place as a leader in education in Omaha and the state of Nebraska.

—

In this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, I sit down with my daughter, Sammie Collison, for a heartfelt and insightful discussion about her journey over the past year, including significant life changes and valuable lessons learned. As we gear up for the holidays in chilly Bellevue, Nebraska, we reflect on life, technology, and the gadgets that enhance our everyday experiences.

We start by catching up on Sammie’s recent car accident. Fortunately, she escaped without serious injuries, though her vehicle wasn’t as lucky. This experience sparked a deep dive into the car-buying process, where she shares insights gained from family advice and thorough research. Sammie discusses key considerations, such as understanding automatic transmissions and avoiding vehicles with salvage titles. Together, we explore reliable options, leaning toward Honda Civics and Subarus, while also considering Hyundai Elantras for their affordability and availability.

From there, we transition to Sammie’s role as a library paraprofessional at a local high school. She talks about her unexpected enjoyment of working with teenagers and the growth she’s experienced in this role. Sammie describes her responsibilities in managing the library, the supportive environment she’s found, and the unique challenges of the job. We explore the evolving technological landscape in schools, including digital databases replacing traditional books and innovative library features like tiered seating for interactive learning.

Sammie also shares her experiences with online job hunting, highlighting the importance of persistence and strategy. She explains how platforms like Indeed helped her secure her position and how she used tools like ChatGPT to streamline and enhance her resume. These insights offer a practical look at navigating today’s job market and the role technology plays in career development.

As we wrap up, we discuss the mixed technology environment at her school, where Mac and PC setups coexist, reflecting broader trends in tech adoption. This leads to reflections on how technology continues to shape our daily lives and user preferences.

Sammie’s journey exemplifies the milestones of personal responsibility and career growth, all while embracing the dynamic interplay of technology in education and life. As we look ahead, we’re excited for future opportunities and the ever-changing tech landscape. Join us in our Discord community to continue the conversation about everyday tech and its impact on our lives!

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