Category: Everyday Life

Such a ‘Bler: Spring 2019 Student Organization Fair!

Such a ‘Bler: Spring 2019 Student Organization Fair!

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With a new semester comes a whole new Student Organization Fair! This is a showcase of the student organizations currently active at Loyola in hopes to spark student interests and provide mediums for exploration outside daily academics. I was back again with the e-board of Diminuendo Literary and Arts Magazine. I am currently the AD/PR Chair and am super psyched for what this semester’s got in stored!

We are Loyola University Chicago’s longest running Student Literary and Arts Magazine. We curates, edit together and then publish two issues of student literary and visual art each year! Our editorial staff includes three main committees – AD/PR, Tech and Design and Digital Media. On top of that, we have two co-presidents, a treasurer and secretary. Our most recent issue is said to be our best and most competitive one yet, so I was pumped to encourage even more submissions for the next!

In between my enthusiastic speels, I roamed Gentile Arena for any possible new adventures. I always try to do a round in case there are any new organizations or if I suddenly decide to finally pick Soccer back up. I’ve been to every one since my freshman year, and there is at least 5 new ones each time! There honestly is something for everyone. I highly recommend passing by even for a short stroll because that’s where I found Diminuendo Fall of Freshman year and I have been so grateful ever since!

This e-board is excited for a brand new explosive issue! Our Fall 2018 issue can be found at Connection’s Café in the IC and on our website: diminuendoluc.com.

Stay tuned and most importantly, try something new this semester!

 

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Last First Day as a Rambler

Last First Day as a Rambler

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How bittersweet, the time has come, where it will officially be my last first day of my undergraduate career. It seems as if just yesterday I was a Freshman entering with no clue how to handle college level classes, making my way to different buildings and commuting almost an hour and half everyday. Also not knowing what you’re truly passionate for is something so challenging during the first few years of Undergrad and is something I personally struggled with. Today, I stand confident during my senior year, and finishing strong.

Something I told myself this winter break, was to not let senioritis get the best of me. As hard as that is, I feel confident that I will hold strong till the end. I recommend you all to do the same, whether you are a senior or not. Make a plan for this semester and aim high.

Some stuff that I do to make sure that I am on track is put down all my important dates on the calendar for this semester. That includes quizzes, labs, exams, papers, etc. The first week, that is what I primarily focus on because I know if I push it any later, I most likely will get caught behind, or just won’t do it because I will be so busy. Doing this, REALLY put me in the zone and got me to do stuff on time, especially studying for exams on time and not cramming when I realize I have more than 1 exam in a week or day. Include all of your finals slots. Yes its in 15 weeks, but it will definitely help you half way through the semester when you definitely WON’T do it.

Another thing I do is calculate my cumulative GPA. I know. So unnecessary. But no, really. Do this under https://www.luc.edu/advising/gpa_calculator.shtml and it will help you so much! I used to never do this my first two years, but now I do this in the beginning of each semester. The reason I do this is because I set a goal cumulative and/or overall GPA I would like based on this semester and figure out what grade I need in the class. Obviously, you should aim for an A always, but if I ever feel like I am falling into a B category, I kind of freak myself out and tell myself I won’t get a certain GPA and it makes me work hard for the A. It also kind of helps to not beat yourself up over a grade. It may not work for everyone, but I think it definitely makes me realize how I need to work for the A and to not slack off during the middle of the semester.

Additionally, I have told myself to incorporate more social time. A lot of times, I struggled with social time, where I would have too much, or too little. I definitely want to focus on balancing the two so that it doesn’t become a stressful semester and I can enjoy the last bit of memories I have left here at Loyola.

Make the most out of every semester, whether you’re a Freshman or a Junior. Take the endless snapchats, create study groups, explore the city, force yourself to go the library, let yourself get a bag of chips and watch Netflix. Whatever it may be, just try to do some of the things I suggest, it definitely will help rather hurt you.

Such a ‘Bler: Sophomore Fall Reflection

Such a ‘Bler: Sophomore Fall Reflection

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Look alive ramblers, SPRING 2019 IS UPON US.

With a new year and 14-week adventure beginning, here are a few things this sophomore has taken away from a rollercoaster of a semester:

  1. Don’t trust your bi-weekly planning routine. There’s a reason the syllabus is prewritten and read through for specific queries on the first day of class – professors aren’t looking to let you have an easy start with the ‘tell us a fun fact about yourself’ ice breaker – THIS IS THE REAL EASY START. From this year onwards, I’m committing to jotting down ALL my quizzes, exams, assignments, presentations, extra sleep days – they type it, I write it – to make sure I have a clear vision of the semester and am able to preplan and reschedule more strategically.
  2. Be honest about your mistakes. Not only is it right, but the truth will always work in your favor one way or another. Frankly, professors are human – very intellectual and organized humans – but humans. They will listen to your concerns and fears if you let them. They want you to succeed, so be honest and let them help the way they can.
  3. Venture when you get the chance. This includes on-campus events, off-campus events, new study spots, odd hour adventures and things you want to go to but somehow landed in the situation of going alone. Doing this not only allows you to refresh your mind in order to tackle more words but always remember that you are here to experience. JUST GO! YOU. WILL. LOVE. IT.
  4. And well, take the chance! I’m essentially reiterating the last point because it is THAT important. Budging out of that burrito of comfort is so important because you’ll never know if you don’t try. That thing you’re so afraid of, may be the best thing ever. It may be the thing you’ve always been searching for. I took plenty of chances this semester and can’t even say that I regret the ones that ended less pleasant.

I’m ready for another ball game, are you?

 

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Organization Highlight: Alpha Psi Lambda

Organization Highlight: Alpha Psi Lambda

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Yes, yes, I know – there’s been an awful lot of posts about the holidays at Loyola. We can’t help it! You know what they say, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!

So, I wanted to talk a bit about one of my favorite organizations on campus, Alpha Psi Lambda National, Inc. They’re a co-ed Latinx-interest fraternity and as I write this, I have some sort of feeling like I’ve already made an appreciation post about them… but I went and checked and didn’t see anything, so that’s good.

I see a lot of Alpha Psi Lambda because they’re another multicultural interest group (not exclusive) like my own sorority. Their members are sweet, driven, fantastic, and beautiful (I only think they’re alright, can you tell?) and all of their events are super fun.

In fact, over the weekend, they had two events that I had so much fun at!

The first was making Christmas stockings for children of the Boys and Girls’ Club: they provided the items, from crayons to little toys to bubbles and so on, and personalized stockings (giant stockings!) for the kids, they just needed a few hands to help fill them. And fill them we did! After we finished, there was even gingerbread houses to make and hot chocolate to drink. The Boys and Girls Club is Alpha Psi Lambda’s dedicated philanthropy, and they have several events and fundraisers over the year to help them, as well as volunteering directly. I’m always impressed by what Alpha Psi Lambda does and how many of them show up to support their events, given that everyone has busy and involved schedules!

The second event was the Latinx Wonderland, a night of delicious food, karaoke, board games and laughter! It was planned, organized, and presented by their one associate member – like a member in training – and I went with two of my roommates and had an absolute blast! Most every semester they have an event like this, and it never disappoints. We played musical chairs and balloon-popping games too as a group, with Alpha Psi Lambda members from all around Chicago. Honestly, I was busy having too much fun to take pictures, so these are all from the first event.

 

Such a ‘Bler: Learning Community Reconnections

Such a ‘Bler: Learning Community Reconnections

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Freshman year, I was accepted into Loyola’s Leadership for Social Change Learning Community last year (here’s a picture of some of us at the Learning Community 360 Retreat last Fall semester). This year, I returned as an LC alumnus to talk to some new LC Ramblers about my LSCLC experience and my Loyola experience as a whole.

They were as enthusiastic and determined, maybe even more, as I remembered my community being. It was interesting to hear their questions regarding student organizations and opportunities available at Loyola. One even voiced that she was concerned she was behind with her involvement (though she’s in her fall freshman semester and in 3 organizations and is looking for an internship!) I was very impressed and applaud them because I only got my job this year and am still looking for an internship. But I made sure to remind them to take things easy.

During freshmen orientation, we were advised to join 2, and not 5 organizations as a start. I of course joined around 5 which I eventually learnt as of Spring semester was a bad idea. I eventually slowed down and found my rhythm. I told them my story, but then again that’s just me. I know for sure that whatever they choose, they will go onto achieving inspiring great things! I’m excited for these new LC ramblers and the differences they will make for Leadership and Social Change.

 

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Such a ‘Bler: Diminuendo Fall 2018 Release Event

Such a ‘Bler: Diminuendo Fall 2018 Release Event

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Last Friday was an extra special day for us creatives of Diminuendo Literary & Arts Magazine because we it was our Fall 2018 Issue release party!

Diminuendo is Loyola’s student-run literary and arts magazine and every semester we publish an issue of original student art! Submissions are received from ramblers and are reviewed anonymously and put together into a beautiful spread by our editorial staff. This year I’ve had the honor of being elected AD/PR chair and it’s been incredible. But I honestly couldn’t have done it without my empowering e-board and dedicated members.

Enthusiasts joined us for a night of great company, great food and celebration of great art. Each artist was recognized and those who wrote a literary piece read theirs out. There was also an open poetry mic at the end.

This issue is said to be our most competitive one yet! Personally, I would frame it on my wall. The team really stepped it up this round around and I can’t wait to see what we have in stored for next semester. You can pick up a copy from our magazine rack in Connections Café in the IC now! We also launched a website this semester: diminuendoluc.com.

I am one proud AD/PR chair!

 

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Christmas Markets in Winter

Christmas Markets in Winter

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After Thanksgiving, one of the most exciting things to look forward to is Christmas time. Although I personally do not celebrate Christmas, the atmosphere that Chicago brings during this holiday season is amazing and you should definitely take advantage of the many fun things to do in the city, especially the Christkindlmarket! This year will be the 23rd annual Christkindlmarket where each year, people from all over the world visit the Christkindlmarket. The outdoor market in the Chicago Loop has become so popular and loved that any Chicagoan will tell you that they could not imagine the city without it. The Christkindlmarket is no longer just a German tradition, it has become a Chicago institution. The unique shopping experience, typical German food and drinks, as well as diverse holiday entertainment make the Christkindlmarket Chicago a preferred and popular destination. In 2016 and 2017, the Christkindlmarket opened two other locations at Naper Settlement and Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville to rave reviews. 2018 marks the inaugural year of the Christkindlmarket Milwaukee at the entertainment plaza outside Fiserv Forum. Admission is always FREE! 

The Christkindlesmarkt is inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, which began in 1545, the Christkindlmarket Chicago brings a cherished German and European tradition with international flair and local charm to Chicago. Chicago’s largest open-air Christmas festival was first held on Pioneer Court in 1996. The Christkind, a fairy-like being dressed in gold and white robes with a crown upon her golden locks, is the namesake of the Christkindlmarket Chicago. Christkind folklore dates back to the 1500s and stems from traditional customs: Parades during the holiday season were guided by one “grand” angel, the Christkind. Since then, and still today, she is the bearer of gifts to most children in German speaking countries, much like Santa Claus is in the United States. Traditionally, gifts are exchanged December 24th and delivered by the Christkind, who leaves gifts under the Christmas tree and disappears before the children can catch a glimpse of her.

One of my favorite things to do here is to get the expensive $7 hot chocolate and take an insta with it. Also you get a cute annual mug with it, so I would say it is worth it 🙂

If you guys ever get a chance, you should definitely check it out. It will be open until December 24th.

 

Such a ‘Bler: Early Festivities

Such a ‘Bler: Early Festivities

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Looks like Christmas is already rolling in at Loyola. I was already smiling when on-campus cafes like Center Stage and Nina’s introduced new holiday drinks and the lampposts around campus were decorated like Christmas trees. But I walked into the Theatre Scenic Shop in Mundelein for my scenic construction class today and saw that my professor had put this together!

And soon, the Loyola Christmas Tree will be up in the Damen Student Center! There were a lot of DIY present activities organized last year, as well as a hot chocolate stand and indoor ice rink! I hope there’ll be more this year, I’m getting excited just typing about it!

A snowman also greeted me on the way to my morning class on the small field near Denobili Dining Hall.

I guess I’m not the only one blasting Michael Buble’s Christmas album in November!

 

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Such a ‘Bler: Study Break?

Such a ‘Bler: Study Break?

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What do I love about studying at a university right near downtown Chicago? It only takes a quick hop on the L to get my head out of a creative block and/or (haha) fatigue.

With my 3 areas of study (Communication Studies, Theatre & English), I always end up moving into Loyola’s Art studios/shops towards the end of each semester. Then comes hours after hours of crafting or typing of new pieces. Eventually the brain calls for a different adventure.

BY THE WAY, I made a new video about what I’m studying at Loyola. Watch it here:

The ice rink at Millennium Park is always a fun place to chill (literally). The price is very college student budget friendly and it only takes a few rounds to forget all that stress and exhaustion (mainly cause you’ll be focused on new brusies from skating haha.) But you honestly cannot feel anything other than refreshed on an ice rink, because if you think too much, you’ll fall. And look how cute Cloud Grate (the bean haha) is all snowed up!

Take some time to cool off, and maybe even a stroll around Millennium Park itself afterwards! The rink is yours until 8:30pm!

 

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Such a ‘Bler: My Hiding Spot

Such a ‘Bler: My Hiding Spot

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The last of my Thanksgiving break actually ended today when my boyfriend waved see you later on O’haire International Airport. I’ll see him in a few weeks for winter break, but for now, it’s full force finals fun. Here’s one of my secrets to treating oneself whilst treating oneself.

The 8th floor of Loyola University Schreiber Center.

Disclaimer: I am not a business student, but my good friend Maddie who is, actually showed me this spot. It is welcome to all.

There are plenty of comfy singular sofas and low tables or higher long tables if that you’re your concentration. The floor is quiet and spacious and breathes an air of relaxed productivity. However, perhaps the best part, are the huge glass windows that wrap the city of Chicago around surround you. The sunlight shines through these giants, and if you’re extra lucky, casts onto the walls. My favourite time is 5pm, 4:30pm during day light savings. That’s when it is the prettiest.

I used to just study in my dorm, which has nice windows too, but I somehow always end up feeling like a hermit. Studying around others in an open space also makes homesickness more bearable. I guess the tip here is to hop around. Don’t be shy, there’s definitely more hiding spots out there. Free coffee is also right next door, but more on that later.

 

HEY, I ALSO MAKE VIDEOS!

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