So X-files has nothing to do with why I'm going to Memphis. It's just that all my life, or at least since 1997, I've only thought of X-Files and Elvis when I heard Memphis. And even though I've seen every X-files episode, that's the only episode I can remember. I feel so creeped out every time I hear that song now.

So I guess I never imagined Memphis to be my "first." I think maybe I thought Chicago would be. Either way, I'm getting excited about leaving and learning about another place. I know it won't be dark and full of post-modern Prometheuses. Or at least I hope it won't.

Every year USF puts on something called "Alternative Spring Break." Instead of going to Panama City to get burnt and sign up for the Army and National Guard for free t-shirts, students can go to a place where they can make a difference. The trips consist of an Advisor, 2 site-leaders, and participants/students that work together to make a difference. This year they have people going to places like New Orleans to help rebuild after Katrina, New York to give support services to people with AIDS/HIV, and MEMPHIS! where I'll be going to help families who are currently homeless and I'll tutor children who need it. The scariest thing is, I'll be the Advisor. Top dogg. Boss-man. Director. Task mistress.

I don't know all of the details, but someone told me that since I'm going to be an advisor, then I'll be in charge of driving the van (yes, that's right... we are taking a van!) to Memphis. Freaky! I don't think they realize that I have (a) not driven outside of FL before, (b) really only driven a VW Beetle (c), no sense of direction; I am very spatially challenged, and (d) (I could keep going... but I'll stop here) I have trouble thinking of my left and right. I just don't think it's a very good idea to put me in charge on the van. ;) I'll make the best of it. At least I can decide when and where we are going to make pit-stops. If I see something cool, like a plastic stegosaurus on the side of the road, then we're definitely stopping. Perfect photo-op.

Anyway, I'm excited. I get to do all of this for only $50; everything is included. And then, as part of my Masters program, I have to travel to another state during the summer to work at a different university. I get to choose that location too! I'm thinking Chicago, Boston, New York City, or maybe somewhere in Pennsylvania or Vermont. I don't know.