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

Time Management Tips

Each semester I have to adjust my schedule and be flexible with my study habits or I would go crazy trying to fit it all in. Here are some of my best time-management tips.

Create a Schedule// I have a weekly schedule that I create in Microsoft Excel every semester that I carry around with me. It has all my classes, work shifts, and internship hours on it. I also put meeting times, which can include group meetings, organization meetings and work meetings. This is my lifesaver when I need to sign up or volunteer for something.

Use "in-between" Time// During your day you are bound to have some time in-between classes. I would recommend using this time wisely, whether it be reading, doing homework, working on tasks for your organization or applying to internships. Use this time to call your mom or print things off. Make a list of tasks you want to do during the day, and use that time to complete them!

Prioritize// This is the most important when it comes to time management. Sit down and decided what is most important to you. Here are some ideas to start your list: school, future career (internship opportunities, free-lancing, job shadows etc), part-time job, family, health, activities and traveling. Once you have your priorities, it can be easier to make to-do lists and make commitments.

Relax// This may seem like a weird time management tip, but I'm most effective when I have down time to just relax without worrying too much about my to-do list. It recharges me and allows me to be the best version of myself!

Daily To-Do Lists// Every night before bed I make color coded to-do lists. While making these to-do lists I make sure to remember how much time I actually have to complete tasks, and how much mental energy I have. This semester I spend most of my weekends completing homework and tasks because that just seems to be easier.

How do you manage your time? Any other tips?

Tips on Dealing with Homesickness

Homesickness has been my biggest obstacle while I've been in Spain. Learning the language, and adapting to the new eating schedule has been a whole lot easier than missing my family and friends back home. (While I miss MB, the unfortunate reality of our relationship is that we aren't used to seeing each other that often, so Spain isn't all that different)

Here are some tips on how to deal with homesickness, whether you're abroad for a time period or living away from home for the first time, I hope these tips will help you!

1. Allow yourself to be homesick: Homesickness is natural, so don't suppress your feelings. Allow yourself to wallow for 15 minutes. After that change what you're doing. Concentrate on a task or watch your favorite show.

2. Get out: Get out of your room or apartment. Meet up with friends and go shopping or sightseeing. Sitting in your room is probably the worst thing you could possibly do. Make the new place your in one of your homes.

3. Don't cut yourself off from your friends and family back home: I don't advise spending every waking moment that you aren't in class or at a job talking to friends back home, but don't cut yourself off. Schedule time to talk to your family and friends, and keep a semblance of your normal schedule. I still all MB some nights before I go to bed, which gives some sort of normalcy to my new life abroad.

4. Realize that you will see your family & friends again: This is not a permanent situation. You will see your loved ones again. This new experience is going to show you how strong you are, and give you confidence. You will make new friends in your new home, and when it comes time to leave you will miss your time in your new home.

5. Bring special belongings: Make sure to bring pictures and even a special keepsake with you. It will make your new place a little more familiar and help you remember your loved ones.



The most important part to remember about homesickness is that it's natural, but it's not natural to let it consume you. These are times when you find what you're made of. I have every confidence  that you are strong and capable.


xoxo

A Note-Taking System

Since I love to see how other people organize their agendas, notes and life in general I thought that I would post my system for taking notes!

I use loose-leaf in a binder for all of my classes. This way I can add paper when needed! I also only take notes on my laptop in non-major courses because those classes are typically lower-level and don't require me to concentrate as much. (I tend to Pinterest a lot)
Also, make sure to check your syllabus to see in

First start with the date of the class. It's easier to reference later and helps you keep your notes in chronological order when studying!

Label the top of your notes with what the title or topic of the lecture is. Make this bigger than the rest of your notes.

Start taking notes. I take mine in bullet style.I start with the main idea on top then indent with each supporting idea.

*While your professor is speaking, make sure to make note of anything they say that isn't on the screen. Most professors post their presentations online, so you can leave room and fill in the information later. You usually aren't able to listen to what they have to say again.

Use different colors for different ideas or facts. Underline or circle key concepts in a different color pen

Leave the highlighting for when you study!


Different Ideas:
If your professor posts lectures beforehand, print them out and takes notes on the side of what the professor says.

Take notes on your computer instead of on paper and use the same guidelines by either printing them off or underlining on your screen!

How do you take notes? Do you prefer your computer or laptop?

Ace That Internship: During Your Internship

Now that you are over half way through your internship, what can you do to really stand out and use this position to your advantage? Here are some of the most important tips that I've heard throughout the past couple of years!

Ask questions: At this point in your internship you should be asking lots of questions. Not just about the assignment, but more "critical thinking" questions! Show your supervisors that you've been picking up on things and want to know more about the industry. This also shows that you're invested in the job and are planning on actually doing something

Ask your boss to lunch or coffee: Once again at this point you should feel comfortable around your boss to ask them to lunch! You can start to build a relationship and learn about how they go to their position. It's a great networking tool and a great way to create a reference for your next internship or job. They may even help you get a job.

Keep a list of everything you do:By keeping a detailed list of what you do at each internship, you are able to use this for your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile. This can also come in handy if it's your job to update an intern folder or database.

Connect with co-workers on LinkedIn:If you feel comfortable enough start connecting with co-workers and your boss on LinkedIn! Make sure to personalize your message though! Just a simple greeting and opener and "I would appreciate connecting with you on LinkedIn", then sign your name!

What are you doing in the last couple of weeks in your internship? What are your go-to tips for your internship?

xoxo

Ace That Internship Part 1: Find the Right Internship for You
Ace That Internship Part 2: What to Wear
Ace That Internship Part 3: Interviews
Act That Internship Part 4: The Follow-Up
Ace That Internship Part 6: How to Gain the Most From Your Internship Part 1
Ace That Internship Part 7: How to Gain the Most From Your Internship Part 2

July Fourth Mood Board

Like I said in yesterday's July Fourth outfit inspiration, I love decorating for the fourth! The next chance I get to host a fourth of July party, I'm taking it!

Mason Jars//Pup//Print//Drink//Party

The print is probably my favorite, and the house is the perfect Southern setting! Add an adorable puppy, mason jars and a cold drink and you have the perfect fourth of July! Don't forget to add family and friends to that mix!

What are your plans for the fourth?


xoxo

Spring Break

Who's ready for Spring Break? I am. But I have less than a week because I get to leave for spring break early! I'm so excited! I leave March 12th for South Carolina with some of my friends to go to a PRSSA Assembly!

Here are some tips for different versions of Spring Breaks!

Road Trip

Are you road-tripping like I am? Here are some fun tips to get you through!

{one}Bring lots of snacks: If you're road-tripping you don't want to spend a bunch of money on food, so run to your local grocery store and buy some snacks. This way you can eat healthy, and not ruin your beach ready body!

{two} Bring the tunes: I normally rely on the radio, but if you're traveling cross-country that might be more difficult. Bring your iPhone or iPod and use some portable speakers! Make sure the songs are upbeat to keep the driver awake. 

{three} Build in time for fun pit stops: Road-tripping is so much more fun when you're able to take pit stops and enjoy the new sights! Take some fun pictures, and use Instagram!

{four} Bring a printed out copy of directions: While I love my iPhone and use it for everything you should have a back up in case something happens to your phone!

Plane Trips

{one} Don't forget the 3 oz rule: You probably won't need to check a bag for just yourself for a week, try a carry on and save money! That's why it's important not to forget the 3 oz rule!

{two} Bring a magazine or book: When you can't use electronics make sure to bring something to keep you entertained!

{three} Wear layers: In order to keep your carry on a little lighter,or to be honest have more room for extra clothes, wear layers! Wear the clothes that you would be coming back in over the clothes you'll want to wear when you get there!

Home

{one} Sleep in on a weekday: Spending your break catching up on sleep? There is a certain satisfaction with sleeping in on a day you don't normally get to. 

{two} Take breakfast in bed: Take a moment and eat breakfast in bed with Netflix or some good blogs! *cough cough* Purple & Pearls. 

{three} Take a parent out to lunch: Our parents/ guardians do so much for us, so take some time out of your week of relaxation and take them to lunch! They will appreciate it, and you'll be happy you took the time to talk with them. 

{four} Go to coffee with an old friend: I love getting coffee with old friends. Especially those that you can pick up conversation with like you just talked yesterday, even though it's been months. These types of coffee dates make me realize how far I've come. It's a good reflection period. 

{five} Shop for spring: Take some time to go shopping for spring! It'll be fun and you can get it out of the way so you don't have to worry about it during school!

What are your plans for spring break? I'll be in Charleston for a couple of days than I'll be at home with MB & KG. I'm excited to say the least. 

xoxo

Finals Week Prep

Here we are again, the bi-annual torture fest that is finals week. 

I have a weird finals schedule here in GB, and I have three papers, three exams, and two presentations this week. Our official exam schedule is this week Thursday, Friday and next week Monday-Wednesday. (Weird right?)

I thought I would share with you some finals tips. 

{1} Make sure to have everything you have to do written out ahead of time, that way you don't forget anything that is due. 

{2} Get enough sleep. Seriously there is studies upon studies that say you will retain more information than if you stayed up all night study. Sleep those extra four hours, don't study!

{3} Eat real food. Take a study break and eat something healthy! You're less likely to get sick, and being full will allow you to concentrate better. 

{4}  Use your flashcards, and create study guides. Carry them with you for a quick brush up on the material. 

{5} Break up studying as much as you can. If not take a break every 45 minutes! Paint your nails in the newest Essie Nail Color or read a fun book. Even take a quick break with Gossip Girl. (My personal favorite)

Have a wonderful finals week, and may the curve be ever in your favor! 

xoxo

Midterm Prep

Middle of the semester already? Say it isn't so!

Here are some study tips! 

{First} Read through your study guide. Or create one based on what you think is most important on the test. 

{Second}  Highlight in your notes what is on your study guide

{Third} On note cards write down concepts that are on your study guide and that you highlighted. (I separate mine by chapter) This way you can test yourself to see if you actually know the information. 

It works for me! I would start studying a couple days ahead of time. But if you're a crammer, then cram away!

Good Luck on Mid-terms

xoxo

Autumn Bucket List

Happy first day of Autumn/Fall!

Here is my Fall Bucket List! I will update you as the season progresses! 

Fall is the time I am always nostalgic for. It reminds me of home. Of football games, high school boyfriends and friends. Of bonfires and best friends. If I could describe high school in one word, it would be fall. My best memories are from fall in high school. Fall meant debate (my lifeline), school (which I loved) and plenty of reasons to hang out with my friends. At university I am busy, but my campus is beautiful. MB is hopefully coming to visit in October, and I can't wait to show him the trails! They are beautiful this time of year. Follow my Instagram (to the right>>>) for some beautiful fall pictures.. 

What is on your autumn bucket list? Any you would add?

Have a wonderful week 

xoxo

My Tote: Be Prepared!

Back to school! I know some schools down South have already started, but here in the Midwest we don't normally start school until the week before or after labor day. (normally)

I am ready to go back to school, mainly because my internship is over on Friday and most of my friends have left. 

10 days until move in! 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here are some of my essentials when it comes to my tote

1// My tote is Longchamp in camel and I am in love with it. I have been using it since I returned from Germany (A very funny purchase story btw). It fits my Toshiba laptop, binders for class, agenda, iPad and food for the day!

2// An agenda. I use the Lilly Pulitzer Agenda , but last year I used the Vera Bradley Student Agenda, which was great too! My agenda is my life, and I have no idea what I would do without it!

3// Food. No joke, I need fuel during the day, so I tend to eat snacks through out the day instead of one big lunch. I usually have a salad with me too. (I am determined to eat healthy again this semester, this summer I've fallen off the wagon)

4// A "what if" bag. I have bobby pins, hair ties, gum, feminine  products, change, & headphones in here. I hope to get a Lilly iPhone charger so that I can charge my phone on the go!

5// iPad. It's basically a mini laptop, and I use it for various activities. Reading blogs, & checking on my own is easier to do on my iPad rather than my iPhone. I also have textbooks on my Kindle app, not all of them but enough for it to be useful!

6// A notebook: A little notebook is perfect for all of my thoughts, rather it be a todo list, blogging notes, or even something to ask MB next time we talk. (I have a lot of random ideas, and to remember to tell him all of them can be a challenge, but he's always a good sport) I was about to order one from May Designs that you can personalize, but I found one with a Jane Austen quote on it in a local boutique, so I had to go with that one! (PS Check out their journals, they have diet journals, address books, & budget journals!)

7// Pencil Bag, binders, & laptop. These are all basic school essentials, but I try to make them fun. I made Lilly print binder covers,( post later), and have a super cute pencil bag. My laptop is kind of boring, but I might be getting a monogrammed sticker or something for it. 

What do you carry with you at all times? Did I miss anything?

xoxo

aVe 

Fall Wishlist

I just said it, fall wish list! It is too chilly here in WI for me to event think about summer clothes, and fall is my favorite season!

1//I seriously need Hunter Boots. Between the rain and snow in Green Bay there would be perfect. I just have to convince myself to buy them!

2// New riding boots. Mine are worn, and I want these Steve Madden ones.

3// Sweaters, Sweaters & More Sweaters. (And some cardigans) I have a feeling I am going to have a staple look this fall, and it's going to involve sweaters and my chambray shirt. I'm hoping Gap has some cute sweaters for me to layer this season (ps HUGE sale going on right now, check it out!)
4//Anything Lilly Pulitzer Tusk in Sun is perfection. If only it was in purple, it would be my print for life!
5// I got this shoe in brown & black. I had the brown pair for a year & a half until they had holes in them. They are the perfect flat from Steve Madden

What is on your fall wish list? 

xoxo
aVe
PS. You can tell that I love shoes. 

Why You Should Read Lean In: Powerful Woman Series

I am an avid reader, but I don't post about it because I'm really into historical fiction, and most aren't! However I heard about Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg from Levo League, and I am encouraging all of your to read it, regardless of gender, age and position in life. In order to raise a generation of equals, everyone needs to take part. 

Sheryl Sandberg did this Ted Talk which put her on the stage for feminism. Here are reasons why I am glad I read Lean In, and why you should too. 

1. She encourages the idea that females and males are inherently different, but she explains why females in business is a good thing. Females can have a positive impact. 

2. She gets rid of the stereotype of feminism. It's no longer the bra burning movement it once was. Her definition makes me want to be a feminist. 

3. She wants everyone to work together. Not just woman helping woman. She wants men to realize the double standards, and she points out men who realize that and who have helped. 

4. She encourages women to support men in a new role, and to find men who are going to be equal partners. When you have an equal partner, both of you can have successful careers and personal lives. 

5. Women need to take more risks. In the book, Sandberg conveys a statistic that is a little sad. Men will apply for a promotion when they meet 60% of the criteria, while women will when they think they meek 100%. "Owning one's success is key to achieving more success" 

6. She redefines leadership for everybody. "Leadership is about making other better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence".  Honestly, this will be my new mantra this year as I step into new leadership roles. 

7. "I want to do that -- and I'll learn by doing it" She encourages everyone to embrace the ever-changing business culture and learn along the way. 

8. She gives real world business advice to everyone. "An all-business approach is not always good business". She encourages people to look at people as actual humans when they do business. It's bound to make the world a better place. 

9. She encourages everybody to help women. Their parents, grandparents, partners, girlfriends, guy friends, basically everyone needs to pitch in. Her dream, and my goal is that my daughter will have equal opportunities without workplace bias. 

Go get this book on Amazon. Read it. Loan it to your friends. Have them loan it to their friends. Spread the word about this new revolution in the workplace. 

Have you read Lean In? What do you think of it? After reading this will you read Lean In? 

xoxo

aEv

ps. I will be posting about other books I read, either by women or men to make us more powerful women!

Letting Go

Here is a bit more personal post, I like to do these once in awhile, and I would love your feedback!

There are a million and one lessons that you learn while growing up, and there is one that I have had a really hard time learning. That lesson is letting go of people who no longer are meant to be in your life. Whether its a friend who you no longer have much in common with, or a past partner whom you were close with but realized that the relationship was no longer serving either of your best interests. 

At the end of high school I had to let go of a relationship where we had both grown, but in different directions. We were close, and had gotten each other through a lot in high school. I realized though that I especially wasn't the same person that I was sophomore year. I had grown up, but differently than my partner.

I moved on in October, fell for my best friend who is now my wonderful boyfriend MB. I however was not over the friendship from high school, and it took me six months and multiple attempts at reconnecting to realize that we weren't meant to be friends right now. We both had to figure out things on our own. 

Now while we aren't meant to be friends now, there is always later in life. Also the fact that we can't be friends now doesn't mean that our relationship wasn't important, or wasn't true. Every person you have any sort of relationship I fully believe serves a purpose. Whether it was to make you smile, or help you through a tough time people are there for a reason.

I have a hard time letting go because I want to keep that person in my life, and continue to care for them and help them. Sometimes I need to realize that it wasn't meant for me to help them or care for them still,and that other people have to do that.

I have finally let go, not of our friendship throughout high school, but the idea that we were the same people. I am sure that he is a great person and will go far.

Being positive about situations in which you need to let go of a person is easier than being bitter. Being bitter may be easier, but it could destroy your relationships with other people. Here are some tips on how to let go. 

1. Don't talk to mutual friends: One of my problems was talking with our mutual friends too much about it. In order to get over someone, you need to stop thinking about it!

2. Unfriend, Unfollow and don't search!: Get them off your Facebook, off your Twitter and DON'T SEARCH. Out of sight out of mind. 

3. Have Fun, Reminisce, Move On: Don't dwell on it. Let go a little. 

Now this may not be a person for you, it may be a dream job, or an opportunity. While that maybe gone, try looking for a similar opportunity, or use it to motivate you. 

Disclaimer: This is what worked for me, it may not always work for you!

What do you think? What do you do in this situation?

xoxo

AV

Dorm Room Advice: Summer Dorm Shopping

This post is sponsored by Residence Hall Linens, but the ideas, room, and opinions are my own.
You've graduated, and now I bet all you can think about is where to start buying for your dorm room!

Here is some advice from what I have learned this past year!

Start with basic colors: I love the color purple, but needed other colors to compliment it with. While I was shopping for purple sheets at Residence Hall Linens I found the perfect comforter. It was black and white, as well as classy. I knew that was the feel I wanted my room to have. 

My dorm room when I first moved in! 

 Accessories: Now that I had my basic comforter and sheets picked out, I had to get body and hand towels along with washcloths. I picked out purple ones, and ended up getting a value pack from RHL that provided me with two sets of sheets, a comforter,  a pillow, two sets of a towels, and a bed side buddy for my glasses. I recommend it!
Storage:I can not preach storage enough! I got purple cloth cubes that I kept dishes and food in. I also accumulated multiple boxes that I could keep random things in my closet in. They were a life saver. I didn't realize how much stuff I would have, and how hard it would be to store all of it. This year I will be buying more cubes for my room!

Closet: I have a lot more clothes than I thought, and my dresser at school was not big enough for the clothes I normally fold! I started to hang a lot more clothes than I would at home, which is why I recommend buying an extra package more of hangers than you think you need. You may also be storing your shoes in your closet, and if you have any where the number of shoes I do, it can be a challenge! Stay tuned for what I come up with for my dorm room this year!

My desk! 

I am definitely avoiding all of this clutter next year!
I hope to be adding some more decorative elements to my dorm, since I don't have to buy the essentials this year! I think a fleece blanket from RHL would be perfect for curling up on the coach and watching PLL with my roommates.
Look back for my new dorm ideas!

I hope this helps with storage and decor! Is there anything you would like to see otherwise?

Happy Tuesday!
xoxo
 AV 

Internship Series: During Your Internship

So today I received an amazing piece of advice from my Grandma M. 

 She told me to write everything down that I did during my internship for a resume or interview. She said that I may forget about projects I worked on, or things I learned to do in the three months that I am interning.

My boss gave me a list of projects she wanted me to work on, and I am going to add to that as I go.

How are you going to keep track of your projects? Any other ideas? 

xoxo

AV

Internship Series

Even though I've been working at my internship, tomorrow is my first official day as an intern.

I am excited and nervous at the same time! 

Here is how I plan to prepare

1. Make my lunch: 

I need to save some money this summer, and I need to start making my lunch. This way I don't have to worry about it in the morning!

2. Plan my outfit tonight

I am having some series dilemma here, but I will let you know what I end up wearing on my Instagram. Right now I am thinking of khakis, a black polka do shirt and a maroon blazer with black flats. But we will see. 

3.Pack my bag

I am going to be using my Longchamp tote everyday. I have already posted about my Longchamp, and I love it. I will pack my planner, lunch, pencil bag (I know, but I am going to feel prepared), and a notebook(for important notes and passwords).

4.Confidence

I am going to be confident in my skills and try not to let my nerves get the best of me. I tend to get nervous and make simple mistakes.

What did/are you going to do on your first day of your internship?

Good luck!

xoxo

AV

PS stay tuned for my first crafting post!