Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
Monday, June 29, 2026
Friday, June 26, 2026
Brotherhood Myths: Fact or Fiction?
Movies have created some interesting ideas about fraternity life.
Some are accurate.
Others are about as realistic as a squirrel running for student government president.
Let's separate fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Brotherhood Happens Overnight
Not exactly.
Strong friendships are built through shared experiences, trust, and time. Like any meaningful relationship, brotherhood develops gradually.
Myth #2: Everyone Has to Be the Same
One of the strengths of a fraternity is bringing together people with different backgrounds, interests, majors, and career goals.
Different perspectives often create stronger organizations.
Myth #3: It's All About Social Events
Social activities are certainly part of the college experience, but successful fraternities also focus on academics, leadership, philanthropy, service, and professional development.
Myth #4: You Stop Learning Outside the Classroom
Some of the biggest lessons in college happen outside of lectures.
Working on projects, organizing events, managing responsibilities, and helping others all contribute to personal growth.
Myth #5: The Best Memories Are Always the Biggest Events
Sometimes.
But often the most memorable moments are the simple ones:
- Late-night conversations
- Friendly competition
- Shared challenges
- Helping a brother succeed
- Laughing about stories that somehow get funnier every year
What Brotherhood Really Means
At its best, brotherhood is about support, accountability, friendship, and helping one another grow.
The events may fade into memories.
The relationships often last much longer.
Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
What lack of sleep does to the teenage brain - Wendy Troxel
Dig into how sleep deprivation affects the teenage body and brain, and what can be done to help adolescents get enough sleep.
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Sleep deprivation among American teenagers is an epidemic. Only about 1 in 10 teens gets the 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night recommended by sleep scientists and pediatricians. So, what’s going on? And what changes can be made to address this issue? Wendy Troxel shares how early school start times and public policy are depriving adolescents of sleep at a time when they need it most.
Directed by Laura Jayne Hodkin.
Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
Sunday, June 21, 2026
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Why Agriculture Is Cooler Than Most People Realize
When people hear the word "agriculture," they often picture tractors, fields, and barns.
While those are certainly part of the story, modern agriculture is much bigger than many people realize.
In fact, agriculture is one of the most innovative industries in the world.
Agriculture Uses Technology
Today's farms use GPS systems, drones, advanced sensors, mapping software, robotics, and data analysis to improve efficiency and sustainability.
Many agricultural careers look more like technology jobs than traditional farming.
Agriculture Feeds the World
Every meal starts somewhere.
Whether it's produce, dairy, meat, grains, or specialty crops, agriculture plays a critical role in feeding billions of people.
Agriculture Supports Wildlife and Natural Resources
Many professionals work in forestry, fisheries, conservation, water management, and environmental stewardship.
Agriculture and natural resources often go hand in hand.
Agriculture Offers Diverse Careers
Some career paths include:
- Agricultural business
- Forestry
- Environmental science
- Engineering
- Food production
- Wildlife management
- Supply chain logistics
- Agricultural technology
More Than Just Farming
Agriculture is about innovation, problem-solving, sustainability, and helping meet one of humanity's most basic needs.
The next time someone says agriculture is boring, remind them that feeding the planet is a pretty important job.
Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
Monday, June 15, 2026
5 Skills You Learn in a Fraternity That Aren't Taught in Class
College is full of lessons.
You learn economics, biology, engineering, agriculture, forestry, and countless other subjects.
But some of the most valuable skills don't come from a textbook.
They come from real life.
Being part of a fraternity isn't just about social events and traditions. It's also an opportunity to develop practical skills that can help long after graduation.
1. Leadership
Whether you're organizing an event, leading a committee, managing finances, or helping coordinate recruitment, leadership often comes from doing—not just studying.
The best leaders aren't born knowing everything. They learn through experience.
2. Communication
College students communicate constantly, but effective communication is a skill that takes practice.
Working with brothers from different backgrounds teaches you how to listen, collaborate, and solve problems as a team.
3. Time Management
Balancing classes, jobs, extracurricular activities, and social commitments can feel like juggling chainsaws.
Learning how to prioritize responsibilities is a valuable skill that employers appreciate.
4. Networking
Every chapter includes members, alumni, and supporters who bring different experiences and career paths.
Building relationships during college can open doors to mentorship, internships, and future opportunities.
5. Accountability
Living and working closely with others teaches responsibility. When people depend on you, showing up and following through matters.
The Real Takeaway
The college years go by quickly.
The friendships, experiences, and personal growth often last much longer.
A fraternity experience isn't just about the next four years—it's about building skills and relationships that can benefit you for life.
Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
Thursday, June 11, 2026
How stress affects your body - Sharon Horesh Bergquist
Our hard-wired stress response is designed to gives us the quick burst of heightened alertness and energy needed to perform our best. But stress isn’t all good. When activated too long or too often, stress can damage virtually every part of our body. Sharon Horesh Bergquist gives us a look at what goes on inside our body when we are chronically stressed.
Lesson by Sharon Horesh Bergquist, animation by Adriatic Animation.
Ethan Shaw
(707)-621-0989
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