Mini Haul: School Supplies

For ages: most people's logic is that if they have "cute" school supplies they will be excited and motivated to get work done. -- Well, duh of course this logic is true! 

I have always loved school supplies and I do not think my love for them will ever fade. Being organized is key to success and school supplies allows for us to be organized; so, we should like our supplies shouldn't we? -- YES! I love following study tumblr blogs and pinterest boards. I get inspired by the neatness and organized school notes on social media to also work hard in my own studies. 

So, today after class I went on the hunt for a notebook and colored pens. I stopped at BLICK and found a variety of colored pens (I spent a little too much time picking out pretty colors.) Then on to target I went in search of a notebook. I found a navy blue leather notebook. It is simple and my favorite color! I was on my way out when suddenly the dollar section caught my attention. I found file folders, dividers, post-its, and a To-do post-it list pad. All things that I planned to get eventually, but there they were, cute, simple, and priced at $1. I was ecstatic! I hurried home and have just finished organizing a binder for all of my classes this semester. I now feel that I am more prepared to carry on with homework. I wish I had been more organized since my freshman year of college, but oh well. It's never too late to start good habits. 

I suggest everyone hit up their nearest target! The school supplies I got today reminded me of Kate Spade school supplies. Last week I was at Paper Source and almost spent 10 times the amount for each item that I bought today. I fell in love with the Kate Spade school supplies at Paper Source, but I am so happy with my purchases today, and so is my wallet! 

No need in breaking the bank to be productive and organized. 

Happy Studying to all!

-Diana 

I'm a Survivor: First Semester Update

Destiny's Child always knew what to say!

Well hello there!

I know, I know long time no speak. I am so sorry for that! But the holidays and those lovely things called finals got the best of me. After a hectic 3 weeks of doing work, studying, and losing sleep, I am finally done with my first semester of college. Isn't that crazy? I am home for the holidays as a new person, maybe not completely but different in some aspects. I have learned so much about life and myself in these few short months (sounds so cheesy but is true). I never thought I would be having the college experience and here are the factors that have helped me through this...

1. The People I Have Met

I can honestly say that the type of people you surround yourself for most of your time in college define the experience you will have. I have been fortunate enough to meet people and hang out with amazing people and have made some (hopefully) life-long friends. My friend group and I study, party, lounge, eat, and generally have a good time together. My closest friend group all live in the same dorm building as I do, so its super convenient because they are only a few doors or floors down from me. Even though we usually mess around and have a good time together, we do get all of work done in the library with minimal distractions. You need these kind of friends in your life, people who you can have fun with but will also understand and push you to do your work.

2. Self-Control

I knew going into college that I was going to be faced with temptation. Temptation to go out, to watch a movie, to not do work, to eat tons of junk food and to skip class and sleep in. Now I am not saying I successfully avoided all forms of temptation, but I think I managed pretty well and controlled myself when appropriate. They say that time management is essential in college and this is true. It is very easy to lose track of time and get distracted, but if you plan out what you need to do and when you need to do it, life should become a little easier. PLANNERS ARE LIFE.

3. Find a Good Study/Homework Spot(s)

This semester, especially in the beginning, I was a nomad when it came to my study spots. I travelled from libraries to study rooms in search for the right place. And what I found out (at least for myself) is that there is not one lone study spot that is going to work. If I need complete silence I go by myself to one of the libraries, if I am studying with friends and don't mind being distracted I go to another library, if I don't feel like leaving my dorm building I go to a lounge and if I am doing work between classes, I go to the Union. I have different spots for different situations and it keeps things interesting to have a change of scenery.

Although there are many other factors that helped me survive this semester (such as peanut butter and releasing anger/stress at the gym) these are the main ones that helped me survive academically and socially. Hopefully this next semester I can one up myself and focus even harder.

Also, I am so sorry I have not blogged during my winter break! I have been busy with the holidays, visiting friends and family and getting some rest. Also I have been catching up with my good friend, Netflix (shoutout to Gilmore Girls and Friends). But I will be blogging in these days before I go back to school and during school!

Have a great rest of the weekend!

-Emily

Petite Moment: Going Home for the Holidays

I was just innocently listening to my Pandora on shuffle, when suddenly Michael Bublé's version of 'It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas' came on and it got me thinking about how excited I was to go home for the holidays. There is just something so nostalgic about Christmas music and winter time. I have always been a homebody and always spent most of my winters shacked up in my house. This led to me hanging out with my family way too often, so now that I am in college and don't get to do that, I really miss it. 

I am super excited to go home for Thanksgiving Break in a couple of weeks, it's going to be a week of catching up on sleep, eating, seeing old friends, and being with my entire family (and homework, but let's not talk about that...) I wouldn't call what I am experiencing "homesickness" because I am completely okay and not sad, but being away for college has given me a deeper appreciation of my home. Before, I used to take that comfort for granted since it was all I knew but now I am thankful when I go home and treasure every moment of it. Winter Break is also coming soon so that will give me about a month to really soak everything from home in. Also, I would like to mention that I am seriously missing the city!! I have always been a city girl at heart and the other day I watched this video on Facebook that seriously gave me the chills. The city of Chicago is so beautiful and filled with life. So I am definitely going to have to visit all of my favorite spots for shopping, eating, and etc. 

So the lesson of this post is: never take anything good in life in granted, because one day (for various reasons) it won't always be available. 

Are you in college or away from home and experiencing similar things? Let me know below!

Have a great weekend!

-Emily

Life Update

Holy cow, who am I? What is life? Why haven't I posted this entire week? College is why. I did not have any midterms this week so why have I been so busy, where does my time go? It goes to homework and other shenanigans. A typical day for me goes like this: wake up, get ready, go to class, come back to my room, take a nap, eat, go to other classes, come back, eat, do homework, shower, sleep. If I am lucky I can slip in a gym workout somewhere in there,writing blog posts, and its an especially good day if I can fit some Netflix in there(aka Gilmore Girls). But this week I have had time to do none of the extra things that I love. But it's finally FRIDAY.

So let's talk about some exciting things I am doing this weekend, shall we?

-Listen to Music

This is so random, but I have been obsessed with 90s R&B music, like its all I want to listen to these days. I have been particularly loving "Killing Me Softly" by The Fugees. I find it to be so relaxing and soothing, so I have been listening to that song on repeat.

The original version by Roberta Flack is also amazing, by the way. 

-Watch Netflix(or catch up on your favorite TV shows)

You best believe I will be watching Netflix (in between studying, of course). I am currently watching Gilmore Girls on Netflix and it has been my life. I have never wanted to have blue eyes more than I do now because of Lorelai and Rory. I am also watching the current season of American Horror Story and am two episodes behind, so I must catch up on that. 

-Cleaning and Organizing My Room

So maybe this isn't very exciting to most people but I am so pumped to clean my room. Whenever my room is organized and clean, I feel like I have my life together. So I will be thoroughly cleaning my room and re-organizing my drawers and closet. 

-Get Halloween Costume 

I am so excited for Halloween! I haven't celebrated Halloween since grammar school, so I am kind of pumped to actually dress up this year (I guess I was too cool for Halloween in high school). My friend from high school will be visiting my roommate and I for the weekend, so it will be a good (but always responsible) time. I will tell you guys about my costume later, I want to keep it a surprise! But I will tell you that is related to Spongebob ;) 

So this is what I will be doing this weekend besides the boring things like homework and studying. I will let you guys know next week how many things I actually accomplish (hopefully everything!). 

Are you dressing up for Halloween? If so, what are you going to be? Let me know below!

-Emily

Setting the Mood

When doing homework it is important that you find what helps you to get it done.  Maybe going to the library, going to the dining hall, local coffee shop, or sitting in bed.

I have found that creating my "work" environment really helps me to get my homework done.

• I turn on the T.V. - I put on MLB network, or an old black and white film.  I mute the T.V. or make sure the volume is very low.  I like to know that there is action, but not enough to distract me.  This mostly serves as background noise.  When I am going crazy or need a 2 min break I look at the T.V. just to get a sight of something besides a computer screen.
• Pandora- Ah my best friend.  I simply need music when I do any kind of work, it is rare that I work in complete silence.  Right now I am listening to John Coltrane Radio.  I love it because it is instrumental and Jazzy.  It is not distracting and sometimes it sounds like a coffee shop.
• Candles- I specifically find that coffee scents help me concentrate.  But over all, candles relax me and the make homework time less stressful.  Also, if you choose a scent to use specifically for homework, every time you smell the scent you will get serious and know that it is homework time.
• Coffee- This is a given.  I not only drink it because I like it, but having a cup of coffee while doing homework makes me get things done.  Coffee gives me the needed energy and is comforting when I start to freak out.  Coffee is that reliable friend.
• Hide my Phone- some people may have more control, however I do not- Social Media= My BIGGEST distraction.  I really have to turn off my phone or put it far away from where I am doing work.  
• Clean room and desk- I have to make sure everything is in order before I start doing work.  If my environment is a mess I get distracted, annoyed, and anxious.  Having an organized work area helps me to stay on track.  I also like to have everything that I need in reach.
• Making my bed- If my bed is made then I will be less likely to crawl in, take a nap, or be lazy.  
• Comfy, but not too comfy- Sometimes I work well In pjs, they allow me to focus on work and I feel comfortable.  However, there are times when being too comfortable is a bad thing.   If I feel like a slob I will want to act like a slob and not do homework.  So other times I have to put on actual clothes and even going out shoes.  This motivates me to act serious and not be lazy.  I guess my homework outfit depends on the day and how overall motivated I am.

In college there are so many distractions.  You have more than enough free time, so managing it is difficult.  Finding a way to get homework done is different for everyone.  Even times of day may have an influence of how well you will work.  So I highly suggest with experimenting and really finding what works for you.  Making a work environment for yourself will make all the difference.

Petite Moment: Current Favorites

Things I am loving at the moment (aka how I have been surviving college)

Jamba Juice:

I have never been a huge fan of Jamba Juice before I came to college. I had it like once or twice in my life. But things changed when I realized the union at my school has one. One day I felt like having some juice, and decided to give it a try again. Best decision ever! I am absolutely obsessed with the Apple n' Greens because it has kale in it and like a million other fruits! So filling and healthy for when I am in a time crunch (which is all the time). I also really enjoy the Kale-Ribbean Breeze because it contains more protein and can be used as a meal replacement. It has passion fruit, mango, chia seeds, and greek yogurt and is absolutely delicious! 

Peanut Butter:

No joke you guys, peanut butter has been my life line here in college. I've always been obsessed with peanut butter and had it often back at home, but now its an everyday occurrence. Whether its on sandwiches, bananas, apples, or just by itself, I live, eat, sleep peanut butter. It keeps me full and re-energizes me when I don't have time (or am to lazy) to go to my dining hall. ALL HAIL THE PEANUT BUTTER.

Blankets

Since naps are my life as I mentioned here, blankets are an absolute necessity. I honestly don't think there is anything that is more satisfying than covering yourself in a soft blanket on a cold, rainy day. Before I came to college, I purchased a super soft throw blanket from Marshall's and it is my favorite piece of fabric I've ever owned. 

Halloween Favorite

These pops are my absolute favorite Halloween candy! When Halloween time rolls around, I literally salivate at the thought of these. If you've never tried them, but are a fan of caramel and caramel apples, I suggest you try these! 

What is your favorite Halloween candy? Let me know below!

-Emily

Homework, I hate you.

 So, I sit here at my computer blogging, instead of doing homework.  My biggest struggle in college has been to actually sit down and do homework.  I am always procrastinating, and I have had no motivation to do anything.  I have also been getting extremely distracted.  My current goal is to really start applying myself to my studies.

I am convinced that hell is a desk that you sit at and do never ending homework.  

It better be!

  Now, I will turn off all of my distractions and I will actually start getting some homework done.  Does anyone else get distracted while doing homework?

Goal: Get Sh*t Done- I will report back in a few weeks and let you know how I am doing.

-Diana

College Advice: Naps

I am not joking when I tell you guys that naps have been my extra lifeline here in college. They help me feel refreshed after a long day and help me get an extra jolt of energy. I usually take naps in the morning in between my classes when I have a big gap. I try to put alarms on so I don't oversleep and actually try to do something productive. Usually my naps last about an hour and fifteen minutes, but that can honestly vary. I also like to take naps after I finish all of my classes if I don't have too much to do and I am exhausted. I would also like to point out that I was never a "napper" in high school. I would only nap on days when I did not sleep well or I was sick (which was never really often.) I guess it truly is a college thing. Napping seriously does improve alertness and helps me actually get my work done. As long as you don't oversleep and go into deep sleep, napping is very beneficial towards your health. 

Same girl same

How do you feel about naps? Do you take naps frequently? Let me know below!

Have a great rest of your weekend!

-Emily

How This Week Went

I hope everyone is doing something fun this weekend.  My week seamed to start out stressful, but now looking back it was actually a great week.

Sunday
I did homework all day and stressed out that I was doing it all wrong and wouldn't finish on time.  This is my definition of college.

Monday

I found a cafe near my university and got a cappuccino. It was amazing and I loved the location.  I got some reading done for class and I think I will make it a ritual "Monday Cappuccinos".  

Tuesday 

My morning class ended early and I met up with some friends to relax.  Meeting up with friends in between classes really gets me through the day.  Especially when my friends bring me donuts!

Wednesday

(My Thursday because I have no classes on Friday)  I procrastinated doing homework and was stuck doing it late at night.  Thankfully I didn't have too much-- or maybe I'll just have to do more this weekend.

Thursday
I hung around school and explored the library with my friend.  Libraries are so relaxing, I will definitely be going more often.

Friday

I went to the mall and bought NOTHING, I was so frustrated ugh!

I hope everyone has a good weekend!

-Diana

Petite Moment: My Homework Playlist

I am currently jam-packed with homework and studying with midterms and one of the things that has kept me going is music. I am a weird person and there are times where I absolutely can't listen to music while doing homework, otherwise I get too distracted. But the days where I can listen to music, this is what I listen to...

Lana Del Rey: "Ultraviolence" and "Born to Die Paradise Edition" Albums

Lana's voice and music are so soothing while doing homework. Her music is generally calm but not to the point where you want to fall asleep. I have recently been obsessed with listening to these two albums simultaneously. Also, Lana Del Rey's Pandora station is also pretty great, combines a lot of great music along with some remixes.

Frank Ocean "Channel Orange" 

It's been two years since this album has been released and I am still obsessed with this album and every single song on it. Most of the songs are calm and Frank Ocean's beautiful voice is great motivation to do homework. 

Lorde "Pure Heroine"

I didn't pay much attention to this album except for the songs played on the radio, but Lana's Pandora station plays Lorde's music frequently and I have become obsessed. It contains catchy and beautiful songs that make doing homework a little more bearable. 

Can you listen to music while doing homework? What do you listen to if you can? I am open to your suggestions! Let me know below!

-Emily

College Advice: Coffee

The next installment of my college advice is all about caffeine. If you don't drink coffee or tea or any other form of caffeine, then are you really human? You're probably a robot or a very admirable person if you don't drink any kind of caffeine drink.

To me, my Keurig is the most important "non-essential" thing in my dorm. I use it every morning to make myself a cup of coffee and whenever I feel like drinking tea in the afternoon. It is so convenient and economical to just make your coffee yourself at home. Instead of spending $4 everyday for coffee at Starbucks (or any other coffee shop), you can just make it yourself an equally delicious drink. The creamer you use makes or breaks your coffee (unless you like it black). I love the traditional half & half cream with one packet of Truvia but sometimes that doesn't cut it and I want something with an actual flavor.  So I buy those flavored coffee creamers and they elevate the game to a whole other level. Also, Keurigs and other small single brew coffee machines do not take up too much space, so they won't be a problem in small spaces, such as dorms. 

Your coffee probably won't look like this unless you're fancy and crazy talented. 

So a small coffee machine will be not only a good invest to save your money, but it will also help you keep your sanity. 

-Emily

What I'm Up To Today: I am sick

Good afternoon to anyone who maybe reading this.  Does this blog get any readers? I hope so, I  sure hope so.  My regular College schedule has started, and so far so good.  I think I'm used to college.   Or maybe I am just walking around pretending, when really I am going about this college thing completely wrong.  Whatever, it's okay.   Like I said before, I am a commuter.  I thought that being a commuter would save me from the illnesses that go around college dorms.  However to my dismay, I AM SICK.  I am not terribly sick,  I haven't missed class and I am still aware of the deadline of my paper due tomorrow (which I have yet to start.)  But yes, I have a cold; my throat hurts, my nose is stuffy (maybe my French accent will be better in class this week), I'm exhausted, I feel week, and I get headaches.  I'm still alive.  I rarely get sick.  I am used to getting sick about once a year and I am never sick in the fall.  Not this year!  It's finally feeling like fall and I have the germs of college students living inside of me.  On top of that I think I have an eye infection.  No big deal I'll just die my first week into college.   So now I report to you from my cozy. comfy, bed.  After classes today, and delayed public transportation, I got home, turned on Netflix, and got myself some chicken noodle soup.  Then I drugged (DayQuil)  myself in hopes that I could pull myself together so that I can get homework done this afternoon.

Are you in college yet?  If so, be prepared to get sick! The college germs are coming for you.  It's inevitable to get sick at during college.  So take care of your selves.  Mom and Dad can't nurse you back to health.  But, you will be okay I promise.

-Get those drugs
-Pop some chicken noodle soup into your microwave
-Sleep and watch Netflix
-Make sure you have tissue with you at all times
-Cough drops and water -need
-Consider ditching class and stay in bed all day... JK pull your self together and whatever you do try to never miss classes!  Don't let a little cold get in the way of your motivation.

My soup, my Netflix, my bed. All I need.

BTW: Today I finished watching the Desperate Housewives Series.  I loved it and got hooked this summer.  It is great that I am done because it was really distracting me from homework these past couple of weeks.  Hopefully I won't be hooked on anymore Netflix for a while.  I am not proud of my Netflix addiction.  I realized my problem, that's the first step right?

-Diana 

College Advice: Rain Boots

Once upon a time, as I was walking to a class on a crisp (almost) fall day, it started to get very windy and clouds started to fill the sky. I started to panic walk because I didn't want it to rain while I was walking to class and because I was kind of late to class. And then before I knew it, it started to pour. I always keep my umbrella in my backpack, so I quickly whipped that out. But my poor, unfortunate Sperry wearing feet got drenched. DO NOT let this happen to you, don't let your feet become a victim to the rain, BUY RAIN BOOTS. 

I have never been a fan of rain boots. I saw no point in owning them because a) I never really had to walk in the rain and b) they do not provide warmth, just protection from rain. So I came to college without a pair, and survived pretty well without them for the first week and a half. But then the weather deciding to get all weird and cold and rainy. And I regret my decision of not buying or ever owning rain boots. Yesterday, as I was walking through campus, seeing all of these girls with dry feet, wearing Hunters and stepping through puddles without a care in the world, I quickly realized I need to get a pair of rain boots. I don't necessarily need or want a pair of Hunter boots (they are like the Uggs of rain boots, right?) But I definitely want a cute and versatile pair I can wear that won't make me look like The Man with the Yellow Hat. 

I am going to check out my local TJMaxx and Marshall's because they always seem to have cute rain boots for a reasonable price. If I have no luck there, I might have to resort to getting Hunters or other types of designer boots. The moral of this blog post is: please please please buy rain boots, they will save your feet and your shoes. Do not be stubborn like me and think they are unfashionable, do the best thing for your feet! 

Do you like rain boots? If so, tell me what brand is your favorite and why in the comments below!

-Emily 

Time Management

So you're probably thinking this post is going to be about time management and how important it is in college and all that good stuff, right? Well I'm sorry to inform you its not (even though time management is seriously important in surviving college). Today we are going to talking about managing time on watches.

Watches are seriously essential in college. Since a lot of classrooms may not have wall-clocks and pulling out your phone during class is rude, it makes it difficult to tell what time it is. Sure you should probably focus on the class and not the time, but does anyone really do that? Sometimes you just need to know the exact time. This is where watches come in! Having a watch has made my life so much easier because I can just check the time on there and it looks cute at the same time. You can seriously get any style you want: sporty, classic, over-sized, digital, bangle, and etc. The possibilities are endless!

Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Baker' in Rose Gold

This is the watch that I am currently(it's my only watch) using and loving! I received this for Christmas and didn't use it very often because I thought it was "too fancy" to wear to school, so I only used it on weekends if I went out. But when I got to college I saw a lot of people wearing watches and caught on that it was necessary to have one, so now I wear it everyday! Investing in a designer watch is great but it is not the only option! I have seen so many cute and sturdy watches at Target that I may have to give them a try so I can have more than one watch option.

What do you think? Are watches a necessity or just another accessory? Let me know below!

Have a good week everyone!

-Emily 

Look Up!

A later friday post than usual, but it is here nonetheless.  My week has been filled with many adventures around Chicago.  With my professor and classmates I have visited many places which I have seen many times before, as well as a few new places that I have enjoyed seeing for the first time.    An open mic night on Tuesday in Wicker Park, a Boat ride on the river and lake on Wednesday, a walk in the heart of Chicago on Thursday along with a trip to the Chicago Art Institute, and to end the week, a walk through Lincoln Park while stoping to gaze at statues and learning everything possible about them, lastly we headed to the Chicago History Museum to end an exhausting week.

Growing up in Chicago I have been lucky enough to have parents and family members that take me around the city to learn about and absorb everything the city has to offer.  However after 18 years you can get sick of going to the same places, WRONG!  Because I have lived in Chicago for many years I have become blind to all the beauty it had to offer.  I walked around the city at a fast pace with my head looking at the ground or at my smart phone.  As much as I loved city life I failed to see the beauty in the Sky scrapers and I began to ignore the beautiful architecture of Chicago.  I focused on the fast paced lifestyle of the city and decided that was what I loved about Chicago.  But boy am I glad that my eyes have been opened again.

This week I have met people from different parts of the country who have all come to study in Chicago.  Because of them I have been able to see the city through their eyes.  Their excitement rubs off on me and I am reminded that I live in a great place.  I am reminded that every part of the world has its own beautiful qualities.  I caught myself looking up at the skyscrapers this week (something that I had not done in years) and I smiled.  I appreciated Chicago and found that it is quite a treasure and that I should continue to look up and search for its beauty everyday.

I tell you about my experience this week so that you too can be reminded to look up!  Where ever you may live I can assure you that beauty and excitement lives there in some shape or form.  Traveling is a great thing, but traveling and going to new places everyday is not realistic.  So appreciate where you are living.  Find the ins and outs of your location and learn to enjoy it.  Have an open mind!

A quick picture of the Chicago skyline.  -It's not too shabby!

-Diana 

Pretty Quotes That Will Get Me Going the First Week of College

Getting Motivated

During this new college journey I will try to always remember to be kind to everyone.  Sometimes we let our bad days get the best of us and this keeps us from putting our best selves forward.

When I was a young girl I had a ton of confidence, I feel that I lost some of it during high school.  It is now time to get it back.  I am 4'11" and I feel that this quote is the mantra of petite people.  

If I want something I will promise to work harder to get it.  In grade school I was a dreamer, and I lost some of my dreams in high school.  It is also time to get my dreams back and be optimistic.  I need to stop making excuses!

I hope to be a successful person in life, but I will never be successful if I focus on the people who have already made it.  I have a lot ahead of me and college is my beginning, I'll try to start it off right!

You are never too old to be reminded to be yourself!  Embrace everything about yourself, know your strengths and share them with others. 

-Diana

Mixed Emotions About College

Freshman year of high school I was more than ready to be done and go to college.  High school was not my cup of tea from the very  beginning.  4 years flew by and I am now just a day away from starting college.  Many thoughts have gone through my head this summer I have gone from very excited to extremely nervous and wishing to start high school over again ( I can't believe I just said that!)

• I am excited to meet new people and make good friends that I will have a lot in common with.
• However I miss my high school friends and the comfort of them already knowing me inside and out.  I don't want things to change.
• I am looking forward to challenging classes that will make me think and analyze.
• I am also afraid of the work load and the stress of hard work.
• I can't stop thinking about all the free time I will have!  So much room for fun things to do.
• With free time comes the responsibility of time management, I'll have to learn how to master that quality.
• Freedom! I can go out to eat and shop and do what ever else I want to do for entertainment.
• Entertainment can be pricey, I will have to find a job and manage my finances, ew. 
• I am closer to the real world, growing up I couldn't wait to be an adult.
• Adult world, was I crazy, I am not even close to ready for it.  I am afraid that after college I'll go out there and get eaten alive!
• College is a step closer to my dreams of having a career.
• I get nervous that the career I want is not the one for me.  

Most of these thoughts probably cross the minds of freshman college students all around the country. I am sure I will be fine, but sometimes we can't keep from freaking out.  College is a huge change that  at times seems impossible to make.  But I will have to face it.  It will be okay. 

Focus on the fun exciting parts of starting college! 

-Diana 

Petite Moment: College Update

As you are reading this post, I have just finished my first week of being in college, going to classes, and leaving home. And let me tell you... I love it! Having all of this freedom and free time is amazing! Keeping track of homework and trying to figure out all of the many websites I need to use (seriously, there are so many websites, it's ridiculous!) is difficult but as time goes on I will get used to it. I love meeting new people and having such interesting classes. It is so easy to be social in college and that is something I was not quite used to before. 

I am  in a "honeymoon" phase with college right now and I am sure this will go away once schools starts getting more difficult and I start to feel homesick. But right now I am trying to take advantage of all of the opportunities I am given and extend the "honeymoon" for a longer period of time!

Hope you have a great weekend!

-Emily 

Going Away for College

In exactly 6 days, I will be fleeing the nest and leaving for college (eek!). Although, my school is only 2 hours away from Chicago, I am still anxious/excited to be leaving. Deciding to leave for college can be a difficult decision for most people. When I was looking for schools, I knew automatically that I wanted to stay in the state of Illinois. Not only is it convenient to stay in state, for traveling purposes, but it is way cheaper. So basically my options were either staying in Chicago, where I was born and raised, or going to the school that I will be attending in a smaller city of Illinois.

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Personally, I love the feel of a complete college town. I find it comforting to know that most of the people walking around are either students or work for the school. I also really wanted to experience dorm life because I think it adds to the whole "college experience." I am not going to have a random roommate because I feel that it was not for me. I like to share my living space with people I am comfortable with, so I will be rooming with a friend from high school. I think this will help me if I ever feel homesick.

An Unrealistically Beautiful Dorm

Another factor that helped me decided where to go to school is independence. My entire life I have been very dependent on my family and I am grateful for it, but I felt like I needed to leave to figure out life for myself. If I stayed at home, I would become completely dependent on my family in times of stress and never really become independent. College is a completely personal experience, meaning you decided what comes of it. You decide whether you go to class or skip it and you decide what you do outside of class.

Ultimately, my decision came down to the academics my university provides and how comfortable I felt at my school. Choosing a school is a big decision, so take all of the important factors into consideration but also trust your gut, it's usually the best thing for you.

-Emily

Staying at Home for College

When searching for a college I new one thing: I wanted my campus to be in a city.  My first choice was New York, NY, it is my favorite place and I thought I would love it.  However I had to be realistic.  New York is a very expensive city and I could not justify spending so much money for my undergraduate years.  Being that I am from Chicago, IL (also a decent sized and fun city) I decided that it would not be such a bad idea to check out some Universities here.  I live about 15 minutes away from downtown Chicago so I quickly decided that I would not dorm so that I could save some money (more like thousands.)  Chicago has an awesome selection of Universities, so it was not long before I fell in love with one and found some others that I also would not mind attending.  

Sweet Home Chicago.

Before I made my final decision of staying in Chicago and living at home I had a lot to consider: I would miss out on the “dorming experience,” I would be under my parents roof during some exciting years of my life (don’t get me wrong I love them to pieces and am thankful to have them), and I would not have the convenience of waking up 10 minutes before class.  After thinking it over I looked at the pros of why being a commuter was a good choice for me.

·      I can redecorate my room.

·      I will not have the distraction of a roommate when studying in my room.

·      I will have my own room and bathroom.

·      I can light candles, blast music, and have the liberty and privacy to do just about anything I want.

·      I don’t have to eat College food.

·      I will save money.

·      I will not have to buy a bunch of new things for my dorm.

·      I won’t risk being stuck with roommate that I may not get along with. 

·      I can live and attend University in an exciting city.

·      I will still be independent because my parents have told me that they will give me my space.

Yes, some of these reasons are childish and I know that had I decided to dorm I would get used to it and would live happily in a dorm.  However, Commuting was the right choice for ME.  It is NOT the best choice for everyone.  I think dorming is exciting and am happy for those that choose to dorm (all of my friends will be dorming at their universities.)

One of the forms of transportation I will use. The Chicago El.

Now that you know that I will be a commuter in College, I will often write blog posts about my experience and tips for commuters.  If you have any questions about commuting leave them in the comments below whenever you want and I will be happy to answer!

-Diana