My Last First Day: Senior Semester Goals

I can't believe I'm writing this, but today is my last first day as a full-time student.

The wave of emotions that have been coming over me the past week have been a little rough, I'm not going to lie. Senior year means a lot of lasts, but the possibility of so many amazing firsts afterwards. I've decided that this semester is going to consist of good-times, late nights, job applications, laughs, caffeine and amazing friends.

Keeping that in mind, here are my goals for my senior semester:

Health
- Find 6 healthy, easy dinners I love to eat
-Continue to prioritize yoga/cardio/strength training
-Continue to snack "smart"
-Start to meal plan

Social
-Say yes to going out more than I say no
-Take lots of photos

Academic
-End my undergraduate career strong, with a 3.8

Career
- Continue to put 110% into my internships
-Connect with 3 more people in Boston
-Spend at least 15 minutes a day networking
-Perfect my resume & cover letter
-Have a job before I graduate
-Create a career manifesto
-Look into freelancing

Financial
-Save $3,500 by December
-Follow a strict budget

Extra:
-Plan Mr & Miss Phoenix really well, and increase attendance and funds!
-Collaborate more on my blog


I know that there are a lot of goals on here, but I know that I can do it. Maybe I am setting myself up for failure, but if I reach 10 of these goals I'll call it a success!


What are you goals? How do you set goals? What do you consider a success? Any advice on these goals?

xoxo

Back to College// Important College Resources

College these days isn't cheap, but instead of giving you my thoughts on that I'm going to tell you how to take advantage of your resources!

The Library// Yes this place can be the ultimate fun sucker, but it's the best place to go if you need help researching or finding a book to read for you freshman English class. In my experience librarians are always more than willing to help, as long as you go in with enough time for them to help. Which means at least a week before your project or paper is due!

Career Services// They are seriously one of the most under utilized services on my campus. They can help you with your resume, both putting it together and actually putting jobs on it. They might even proof your cover letter and help set up interviews for you in the community. Start using them earlier, it'll help when it's senior year and it's time to get a real job.

Fitness Center// Y'all you pay a decent chunk of change for some pretty cool workout classes and decent equipment. Take advantage of it, and you just might avoid the freshman 15! Bring a friend with too, it's so much easier to work out with someone who wants to work out too!

Academic Center// Where ever your advisors will be, you should introduce yourself. They are seriously the best sometimes, and can give you advice on what to do. They help you navigate your major or (lack of). They were great with helping me basically get out of speech class (#debater, didn't need it)

Diversity Centers// No matter the way you identify yourself, check out your diversity centers on campus. You're going to meet people that you never thought you would, and I guarantee they will diversify your outlook on life.

Health Services// Look for where you can get a quick check up when you're feeling really under the weather. They are also there if you feel really overwhelmed. Don't be afraid to go and seek help. Your health, mental and physical, is so much more important than that grade or internship.

Activities Board// A lot of colleges/universities have student boards that organize things to do! Make sure to know where to find that info, you can end up doing some really cool things!

Residence Life// If you live on campus, I would at least know your RA's name. While a relationship shouldn't be forced, your RA can be a great resource/mentor on campus for you! Also, ResLife can have some really cool programs as well!


These are all the things that I've found to be really helpful in college. Did I miss anything? What are you looking forward to as a student? What did you take advantage of when you were in college?


xoxo

Back to College Series:

Planner Review

School Supplies
What to Snack On
What to Buy Once You're There
How to Budget
What to do Your First Week
How to Manage Your Time
Best College Advice

Back to College// How to Budget

The word budget sends fear into any young person's heart, but trust me you are going to be happy that you started it. Here is how you start your school year off right with a budget. Trust me, your bank account (and parents) will thank you!

1// Make a list of all of your expenses: This includes groceries, gas, and even clothing that you buy every month. Estimate how much you spend each month by looking back to what you've spent over the past couple of months.

2// Make a list of all of your income and savings: If you're like me, some semesters you're going to have to take more out of your savings than others. Look at your expenses, and look at what you may have going on each month. Also, think about how much you're willing to deplete your savings per semester, and how much you make during the summer and breaks to increase it.

3// Subtract your expenses from your income/savings: This is how much you have a month to spend, if you have a negative number than you need to cut back somewhere.

4// Once you have your number: If you can, try and add $20 or more dollars to your savings account so that you have some rainy day money. Remember your budget the next time your decide to go out or buy that expensive pair of shoes.

5// Use an app: I use Mint to keep track of my finances. I set budget limits there, and it helps keep me honest!

6// Don't neglect savings: I had to save for a year for my study abroad trip. Now I'm saving for my first post-grad apartment! Learn how to save now, it'll help in the long run!

Other Tips

-Think about how you are spending your clothing budget. I tend to buy investment pieces that I know I'm going to wear a lot, and for awhile. I don't have a problem waiting for a sale to come to buy that piece. I also know that I'm going to want some more fashion pieces, but I will only spend so much on them.

-Car pool, take public transportation or walk in order to save money.

-Opt for nights in with friends at least once a week instead of going out.

- Go to free campus events for (free food) entertainment.

-Take advantage of student discounts on tickets, clothing and admissions.

- Prioritize what you find important, if you don't know yet then look where you're spending your money.


If you're looking for more in-depth budgeting tips, check out Rich Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan for Getting Your Financial Life Together... Finally.  I'm reading it right now, and it's been really great!

What do you do to save money? How do you keep track of your budget?


xoxo

Back to College Series:

Planner Review

School Supplies
What to Snack On
What to Buy Once You're There
What to do Your First Week
Important College Resources
How to Manage Your Time
Best College Advice

Back to College// What to Buy Once You're There

One of my tried and true tips when moving to college or anywhere really is to wait to buy certain things until you get there. This way you end up buying exactly what you need instead of too little or too much.

Here is my list of things you should wait to buy:

Powerstrips
Extension Cords
TV Cables
Internet Cables
Toilet Paper
Paper Towel
Bathroom extras (Toothbrush holder etc)
New hair products and shower products
Lamps
Hangers


Now if you find a really good deal on one of these, I would grab it! But keep in mind that you may end up buying more, or not using them!

What did you end up buying when you got to college? Was there anything you forgot?

xoxo

Back to College Series:

Planner Review

School Supplies
What to Snack On
How to Budget
What to do Your First Week
Important College Resources
How to Manage Your Time
Best College Advice

Back to College// School Supplies

I love school supplies. This is honestly one of my favorite times of the year because of all of the school supplies that are in stores. Here is my list of must have supplies for college!

Writing Utensils
Le Pens 
Paper Mate InkJoy
Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencil Set
Sharpie Accent 10ct Highlighter 
Crayola Colored Pencils 
Crayola Markers

-All of your needs should be met here with these writing utensils! I normally keep my Le Pens, a couple pencils and a couple of highlighters with me. I leave the extras at my desk for when I'm studying and to restock later in the year. The markers and pencils are great for late night projects, home made cards and crafts!

Note Taking & Organizational Supplies
Wilson Jones Basic Round Ring Binder 1"
Wide Ruled Reinforced Filler Paper
8-Tab Index Divider with Pockets
Post-It Note Pads

-Every class I have has a binder with loose leaf in it. I then add dividers with pockets for extra sheets of paper so that I don't I have to stretch out my pockets in my binders. I've been using the same 6 binders for 6 semesters. I use post its in my notes as well to remind myself of important concepts for projects, papers and exams.

Desk Supplies
Sparco Hole Punch
Kantek Acrylic File Sorter
Kantek Acrylic Pencil Holder
Fun Patterned File Folders
Fiskars Scissors
Post-It Tabs 
Post-It Stick Notes
Scotch Magic Tape Dispenser

-You're going to need a hole punch to put papers in your binder to stay organized. The file sorter and pencil holder are cute, and you can add a monogram or your sorority letters to personalize them! The file folders are a cute way to liven up your organizational system. The rest are simple necessities you'll be glad you have on hand!


These should all get you started and prepped for success! Is there anything that you use that I miss?




xoxo

Back to College Series:

Planner Review

What to Snack On
What to Buy Once You're There
How to Budget
What to do Your First Week
Important College Resources
How to Manage Your Time
Best College Advice

Ace That Internship: What to Bring Your First Day

It's been awhile since I posted an Ace That Internship blog, but since summer internships will be starting soon I wanted to post something. Here are some ideas as to what to bring your first day on the job.

A Notebook// Write down everything! Passwords, simple instructions and complex instructions. Even write down who does what. Bring either a legal pad or notebook just for your internship!

A water bottle// You may or may not be doing  a lot of talking, but a staying hydrated will help you stay focused. Bring one you can leave so that you don't forget to have one at the office!

Paperwork// If you have a paid internship, or you are taking one for credit make sure to ask if there is any paperwork you need to bring! This could include your social security card, passport or drivers license.

Positive Attitude// Remember this is your first day. Even if it isn't exactly what you wanted, make sure to still be positive about it. It's a great experience, and you should really try to make the most of it.

Listening Ear// The first day is probably going to be full of a lot of information, so make sure you are ready to listen. Try and remember names, important times and even what to do everyday when you arrive.

Snacks and/or a Lunch// Depending on what you might need, bring food if it is going to be a full day! You don't want to be concentrated on your stomach when you're in an important meeting or getting to know your new co-workers!

Where is your internship this summer? What do you always bring?

Senior Year Bucket List

I think I might finally be able to admit I'm a senior. As I start the second half of my spring semester I'm starting to realize all of the lasts that are about to happen. I just had my last spring break as a student, I'll be volunteering at some of my favorite events for the last time, and I will be attending the last of my favorite sorority traditions.

In order to combat some of my nostalgia, I have put together a senior bucket list!

My campus is breath-taking. 

• Attend my last spring formal 
• Take a picture with my entire sorority family 
• Take pictures with my pledge class 
• Participate in an inter-mural sport 
• Take a walk through the arboretum in fall. 
• Find the perfect dress for senior tea
• Attend Fall Ball with MB (For the 1st and only time) 
• Go out with KG & JP (once I'm 21) 
• Celebrate one of my little's 21st birthdays!
• Attend at least one women's and one men's basketball game
• Participate in one last induction ceremony
• Complete two more internships 
• Pull an actual all nighter 
• Take a road trip to someplace outside of WI
• Celebrate my 21st birthday in style 
• Visit MB in Des Moines one last weekend (where we don't have things planned separately) 
• Attend a Packer Game 
• Attend a Green Bay Gamblers Game (hockey) 
• Have my siblings stay over one night to "bond" before I move out completely 
• Visit SB in Colorado 
• Visit AD in Chicago
• Attend the PRSSA National Conference 
• Spend an entire evening out with JP going to Starbucks, Target & Noodles
• Go to Bay Beach (local amusement park) 
• Half-Off Apps with some of my favorite Greeks 
• Volunteer at Walk A Mile 
• Participate in the Color Run

What's on your bucket list? How are you dealing with all of the emotions that come with being a senior?

xoxo

Links to Love

This week has been crazy. Yesterday I started a new project on a whim (kind of) and it's already taking off. I can't wait to share my experiences! Here are some really fun links that I've found this week!

• I've been struggling a little bit with uncertainty lately, and this article from Levo League really helped!
• After hearing about Nourish Snacks, I bought the college pack and I love all of the flavors!
• MB's Little & I are obsessed with Lauren Graham, and love this article about her character Lorelai Gilmore and coffee!
• These female entrepreneurs from Asia are a real inspiration! 
• Tips on how to survive the last weeks of the semester. 
• My favorite Old Navy spring arrivals. 
• Really love J.Crew Factory's selection of graphic tees this season!
• Some refresher time management tips!
• The cutest Easter dress. 
• If you aren't spending all weekend at home for Easter like me, here are 37 Things you didn't know about Netflix. 

Happy Easter! Have a great weekend!

xoxo

Surviving the End of the Semester

Yes. I said it. We are almost to the end of the semester. While this may surprise many of you, it may also send others into panic mode. Here are some tips to get you and your agenda through the next couple of weeks.

Know Your Deadlines// Write every due date down, soft or hard. Know your deadlines and prepare accordingly. More preparation = less stress.

Plan Out Your Days// Instead of trying to squeeze everything in, make a flexible schedule of your day and when you want to get things done. Don't try to squeeze productivity out of every last moment, make sure to schedule down time which includes time with friends!

Prioritize// Yes everything is important, but what absolutely has to be done before you get your 7-8 hours of sleep? Get that done first then move on to other tasks.

Know Your Goals// Write down your goals and post them in your workspace. That could be on your desk, in your agenda or even in your kitchen.

Everyday Pearls March 22nd!

There is no such thing as easing back into spring break! This past week was so much fun though, and it's nice to get back into my routine. Since being back I've put extra emphasis on my health. Working out regularly and eating healthy are huge. I'm also managing my time better in order to sleep more.

Here's what I've been up!

We went to a trampoline park to bond with our pledges this semester. You could say I had fun. 

My Little #2 EK! Love this girl, she's so sassy and driven! 

Selfie Central on my way to see Scotty McCreary

My grand little! Love her!

Badgers in the Final Four! 

Waiting for Scotty (we just HAD to get there early)

This woman is really my everything. My best friend, roommate and favorite date!

#TSM Very white girl with our letters, starbucks and (not pictures) leggings. 

My two littles, we volunteered together at the Great Bunny Train Sunday morning!

Cutest bunny ever. With one of the cutest littles ever. 

Have you ever seen the show Greek? We do it for the children. (Please tell me someone got that reference!) 

Public Relations Friday: Classes I'm glad I took

Let me tell you there are a lot of classes I may or may not complain about taking sometimes. As a communications major I really don't understand the need for four science classes, but I digress. Here are classes I'm actually glad I took, even though they were pretty difficult for me.

Statistics// I took this my senior year of high school and the benefits have been numerous. First I feel like  think critically about statistics that are presented to me. This makes me more suspicious but more confident in my opinions. Second it has put me ahead in my classes. I'm normally the only one who understands what p means as well as the differences between a mean and mode. I've used statistics while analyzing surveys and creating communication plans as well as in my role as an intern. If you have the ability to, I recommend taking a statistics class!

Global Food & Nutrition// This was one of the science classes I had to take, and it was most definitely one of my favorite science classes of all time. (Which isn't saying much, it's a short list) This class opened my eyes to the problems in developing nations of our world, as well as in our own country. I now understand the importance of sustainable food practices and make choices accordingly.

Information Technologies// This is a class about how technology is adapted and used. While it can be a little too abstract for me, I have already found it useful. One of the ways it's been helpful is evaluating updates in technology, the costs and benefits of adoption of said technology as well as the importance of how rich the communication technology is. Well this sounds really complicated, it gives me the ability to critically think about new technologies, like the Apple Watch, and how they could benefit or cost a client.

What classes are you glad you took, even though you may have complained about them?

What to do on Spring Break

Since I just spent four months in Europe and just moved into a new apartment, MB and I are just staying in Wisconsin for the week. While this may seen boring, I plan on making the most of it! Here are some of the best things to do during spring break!

Craft// Even if your not in a sorority, check out your Pinterest craft board and pick something to make! Spend a day with someone you love crafting, or binge-watch your favorite show on Netflix while crafting!

Catch-Up// This could mean catching up on your favorite shows, watching House of Cards or finishing a book!

Explore// Take a day trip or spontaneous road trip to a city near by or a different state! Look for fun shops or quirky restaurants! Make sure to document it too!

Even if you're spending your spring break at home, or at school take some time to relax and have fun!

What are you doing for spring break?

xoxo

Reasons to Study Abroad

Y'all knew this post was coming, but studying abroad is one of the best leaps of faith that I've taken thus far in my life. Here are some of the reasons after the fact that I'm glad that I studied abroad, even though there were some trade-offs.

Living Aboard// Personally I think almost every body should be abroad for about a month. It's  great experience and it opens your eyes to how other people live. You're able to relate to people from different backgrounds.

Politics & World Issues// My professors were always very curious about how Americans view issues in our own country. Speaking with people from other countries who were taught differently, they have a different outlook and experience with world issues and controversies in our country.

Fun// While studying abroad, the program is about having fun. Young adults our age in Europe aren't expected to live as independently as we are. Your professors and advisors encourage you to travel, go out with you friends on a week night and have fun. There is homework, but not as important. They want you to immerse yourself in the culture.

Personal Growth// As an individual, I discovered more about myself while studying abroad than I have since the first semester of college. I became more confident in my abilities as well as who I am and what I want. Some of my friends discovered they wanted to come back, others discovered that they had chosen the right path. Affirming aspects about your plan is just as good as figuring it out.

Travel// As a study abroad student I hope you travel! As you travel you naturally become more independent and are able to figure things out by yourself. You get more confident asking for help, and are more likely to try new foods and activities!

Studying abroad is such a great experience. It's scary, terrifying, amazing and life changing. I encourage you to do research and strongly consider studying abroad!


xoxo

Fun Date Ideas

MB and I are actually seeing each other in person this semester (#LDRprobs). Which brings up a unique problem, what to do when we see each other? Here are some fun date ideas that we've come up with!

Appetizers & Netflix//  Instead of going out for a dinner/movie date, order to-go your favorite appetizers from your favorite restaurants, or whip some up yourself!(check out my food Pinterest Board for ideas). Curl up together and watch a couple episodes of your favorite show or a movie on Netflix! It's a fun, cheaper date idea!

Bowling & Pizza// This may seem like an old person's date, but it is actually really fun! Double date or just the two of you, it's still fun! Place a fun bet on someone's score, or try different bowling "techniques"(i.e. the granny bowl, bowl facing backwards!) Grab some pizza afterwards to refuel!

Lunch Date// Instead of going out every weekend, grab lunch on Saturday instead! Look for food trucks, or some funky restaurant that might be really busy for dinner! Try new foods together, and learn more about each other in much less formal atmosphere.

Collegiate Sports Event// Even if you aren't in college, go and cheer on your local team! There are lots of different sports, and the you can find a schedule by googling the name of the college! Try and find clothes in their colors, and have a fun afternoon or night together! (PS Make sure to get some concession stand food!)

What do you and your S.O. do for date night?

xoxo

Credit

We all look for credit in our lives. Credit for an idea, for helping out or for just being a good friend. It can be difficult when we think we're being over looked.

I've been struggling with the idea of receiving credit for what I do. I know I should probably just let it go and enjoy the fact that other people are benefiting from my ideas and work. However sometimes I just want a little credit, and a little recognition. I've really been struggling with this since I returned to Green Bay, and have yet to find a way to handle it. However, I'm going to try my best.

I'm weird in that I like receiving recognition but it's a little embarrassing for me at the same time. The past four weeks have been frustrating, and I think if I received the credit I've been looking for I would gladly accept it. As a student most everything I do is to land a job out of college (#realtalk) yet I truly enjoy everything I participate in. I'm currently so frustrated that I'm not enjoying myself, and I really need to get over it or say something. Sometimes I wish there was a handbook for situations like these.

This weekend give yourself credit for everything you do and #treatyoself to something. Have a glass of wine, watch a couple episodes of your favorite shows, buy some discounted chocolate on Sunday or just relax for an hour.

After you treat yourself text a friend, email a professor or supervisor, or take out a family member and compliment them. Give them credit for everything they do, and encourage them to pass it on.

How do you handle not receiving credit?
xoxo