7 Easy Ways to Improve Your Wellness 18 Oct 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
Self-care and wellness are essential to our lives as students because without them we are unable to be the best version of ourselves. However, the main solutions that are usually suggested to us (exercise, meditation, sleep etc.) require either: (1) too much effort or (2) or more of our time. Because of this, I feel moved to offer some more manageable tricks to tend to your wellness needs while at school.
Pet every dog you see.
There are a good amount of pups running around campus. You can find them on the arts quad, walking by the slope, or even in Collegetown. I highly recommend taking 15-30 seconds to interact with one when you see it, and if given the opportunity. I can guarantee that it will brighten your day and you will not regret it!
Treat yourself to your favorite drink
Tea! Coffee! Boba! You name it! From my personal experience, waiting in a 5-10 minute line at Rusty’s, Zeus, or Bus Stop bagels for your favorite drink, at some point in the day, can truly improve your mental health by giving you that extra kick. It can easily become one of the best practices of your daily routine.
Warning: this may put a dent in your BRB account but it’s worth it.
Make your bed every morning
Making your bed puts you in a good mindset for the day, making you feel a bit more put together. Now, the days when I forget to make my bed pale in comparison.
Watch a Vine compilation
While vine may be dead, watching a compilation on YouTube can give you a good laugh and allow you to revisit your childhood. A personal favorite of mine is called “Vines that keep me from ending it all.”
*Scientifically proven to improve mental health.*
Don’t be afraid to splurge.
If you want a scone from Zeus, just get it even if its rock solid and you’ll regret it later.
Lie down on the floor of your room
If you are feeling stressed, just drop everything and lie down. This will help ground you and reconnect with the earth. *Also scientifically proven.*
Drive around in a car with no destination for 12 minutes.
If you have a car on campus, or know someone with a car, driving around with nowhere to go is a great way to solve your problems. Put together a playlist of your favorite songs and blast that music out the car windows!
While it is great to engage in activities that tend to your wellness on a larger scale, we all have those weeks where we just don’t have it in us. I hope these suggestions can help improve your wellness even just a little bit. Because every little step counts!
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Your First Holiday Away From Home 17 Oct 2019 5:03 AM (6 years ago)
Whether it’s Rosh Hashanah, the Chinese New Year, Diwali, Easter, or even your birthday, at some point during freshman year you will find yourself celebrating your very first holiday away from home. It’s different, even fun — there’s nobody to make sure you go to class on your birthday and no parent to scold you when you try to sneak out of the temple or church early.
But at some point, that latent little kid will miss your mom’s annual brownies, the thrill of opening presents, the familiarity of celebrating people who you know and who know you too, and the comfort of holidays at home. To cope with these struggles, I’d suggest bringing your traditions and the thing you miss most here to Cornell; you might even find that it’s already here waiting for you! For me, it was the Rosh Hashanah dinner held at Trillium that opened my eyes to what I now think of as my second home. During Welcome Week, I’m sure you saw the colorful mirage of chalk that filled the sidewalks and noticed the endless flyers being handed to you as you walked to class. Until this dinner, I brushed off these opportunities, for the most part, reasoning that I already had friends, families, and interests waiting for me at home or that I was too busy for these clubs. Thankfully all of these little Cornell families were still waiting for me when I was ready. Because at some point, the sickness, whether it be mono or homesickness, creeps in, and we yearn for the comfort of a religious community or the familiar sound of an acapella group. Whether it’s a dinner at Trillium or bringing your friends to services, Cornell can be dressed for any holiday.
I’ve found that it is during holidays when I have made my closest friends, friends who share my values, aspects of my background, and my love for brownies. There’s something gratifying and so simply human about wanting to share our experiences with others. Where we come from and how we celebrate is who we are, so naturally, we long to share this with others. It is at these times of the year, the holidays, even the most inconsequential of such, where we are given the opportunity to share our background, treasured stories, and secret recipes. And though it may be impossible to bring all of our friends home, we certainly can all bring pieces of home to us. So, next time you have something to celebrate, bundle up and stay put — celebrate Cornell style and make this campus home!
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Why Spotify is the Superior Streaming Service 16 Oct 2019 6:00 AM (6 years ago)
In an age where production companies and TV channels are growing their brands by adding content to streaming services and creating their own online viewing platforms, consumers are pressured into spreading their wallets thin to get a hold of all the different shows that are at the tips of our fingers. This binge-watching culture is expanding exponentially, and choosing which services to pay for is a tough question. However, in terms of binge-listening, the choice is clear. Despite there being many options to choose from (Apple Music, Amazon Music, Google Play, etc.), there is, in my opinion, a definite winner: Spotify.
Spotify is the superior streaming service because it is incredibly personal. There are about 10 different playlists that are curated for you on a daily/weekly basis through algorithms that never fail to expose you to music you’ll love. Here are some of my favorites:
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- Daily Mix series: 6 endless playlists, organized by your most listened to genres and artists, plus new songs that fit along with your favs. My Daily Mixes generally consist of these vibes: Indie, Alt Rock, R&B, Hip Hop, Rap, and Pop. It is the perfect way to organize music outside of my self-made playlists and discover new artists. Playlists are updated and they shift genres daily based on your recent listening habits.
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- Discover Weekly: A weekly-updated playlist of about 30 songs that are similar to the genres and artists you’ve been feeling lately. This is what got me into Spotify in the first place. It is the perfect way to get out of a funk of listening to the same few albums and expand your palate.
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- Release Radar: A weekly-updated playlist of new releases from your saved artists! This is the playlist for people who do not closely follow the work of the artists they like. Or it can be a good way to see songs that your favorite artists may be featured on, rather than releasing themselves.
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- On Repeat/Repeat Rewind: Two playlists, one function. These are playlists that put all of the songs you can’t stop listening to into one mix. On Repeat is your current list of earworms, and Repeat Rewind are ones you had on replay in the past.
There are also a few special playlists that come around once a year, like Top Songs of (Year), Summer Rewind, or Tastebreakers. These are a part of sites and special functions like Spotify Wrapped or Festify. In general, I love how Spotify caters to my interests and constantly tries to expand my music taste. The app also satisfies my podcast needs, which centralizes all of my listening content into one location and provides even more interesting things to listen to, like the Spotify-produced analytical and biographical podcast Dissect.
Like a good friend, Spotify both supports and challenges me. It is constantly fresh and exciting, giving me new artists to explore and reminding me of old ones I had forgotten about. My Spotify evolves with me, and it is up to me to choose how much effort I want to put into that evolution. If I want to create my own playlists, I can seamlessly do so, but if I want to relax and settle into something foreign to me, Spotify is there to help.
A few weeks ago, a friend of mine told me we shared a song appearing in our respective Discover Weekly’s, to which I replied, “Great algorithms think alike!”
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What to Expect When Renting for The First Time 15 Oct 2019 4:49 PM (6 years ago)
Ah, fall – the best time of the year. Back to school time. Spooky season. You name it. But most importantly, it’s time to snag your apartment for next year. Most Cornellians rent an apartment off-campus after sophomore year due to lack of guaranteed housing options provided by the school. And if you’re like me, it can be pretty scary renting your first apartment. Why wouldn’t it be? It’s a major adulting task. Despite this, there is hope and I’ve learned many key things from my own (not-so) great rental experience in Collegetown:
Decide how far you want your commute to be:
This is extremely important!!!!! I cannot stress this enough as your first step when you go apartment hunting. More often than not, really really cheap apartments are far from campus. If you don’t mind waking up early in order to live in an affordable place, you do you, but I need a place that is around 10 minutes walking distance which is why I chose to rent in Collegetown.
Know the average rental prices:
Some college towns vary in price in terms of off-campus living. Ithaca rentals average up to $1100+. Knowing rental prices is crucial because it saves time beforehand when touring places. Also, it’s good knowing the average price because it allows you to create a budget of how much you will be able to spend on other living costs such as groceries and recreation.
Talk to older friends:
The greatest help I had in my apartment search was probably speaking to my older friends about the process because they really guided me to great leasers and gave me peace of mind. For instance, I was scared that I was being robbed because the prices in Collegetown are extremely high but they told me this was the norm. They also spoke of their positive experiences with their landlords who I ultimately rented from.
Tour, tour, and tour again:
I spent way too much time looking at apartments, often the same ones three or four times. You’re going to be living here for a year, make sure you like the space. And don’t forget to look into utilities! You want to be positive that you will be getting the biggest bang for your buck.
TRUST YOUR GUT:
I fell in love with an apartment at first sight and it was listed at a great price, but the leaser felt like a fraud to me. This leaser also had very, very poor ratings on Google. I was going to go through with it anyways until I decided to tour another place. Now, I’m renting a bigger apartment in a better location for around the same price.
Noise level:
Collegetown is annex central and if you can’t sleep with noise, look at apartments in this area that are off the beaten path and less crowded by parties. You can still live in Collegetown while making sure you get your beauty sleep. For instance, side streets off of College Ave and Stewart have apartments that are far enough from the party scene noise-wise, but close enough to enjoy Collegetown’s restaurants and recreation.
APARTMENTS WILL GO FAST:
Some places rent out easily. You may feel heartbroken over it but don’t be dismayed. It just wasn’t meant to be. And remember, if you don’t want to rush, don’t, it’s a serious decision. An apartment I was considering leased quickly and it made me frustrated because I felt that my options were running out. However, I learned that was far from the truth.
Wherever you decide to live, enjoy it. The place you call home during your college years should be one you can truly rest in. Don’t rush through this either. You will find an apartment – no matter what.
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The History of Homecoming at Cornell 12 Oct 2019 6:53 PM (6 years ago)
Homecoming at Cornell is a time for students, faculty, and the whole Cornell community to come together, celebrate the new school year, and reflect on Cornell traditions (and take a break from studying for prelims). Last year, Homecoming weekend gathered more than 12,000 members of the Cornell community, and this year we saw even more. For those who have yet to experience a Big Red Homecoming, here is some recap from 2019’s Homecoming weekend, along with some history from years’ past:
One of the main highlights of Cornell Homecoming is the football game on Schoellkopf Field, where, this year, our team played against the Georgetown Hoyas. Everyone from students to professors to football fans showed up, decked out in red and white Cornell gear, ready to support the Big Red while listening to and learning Cornell’s famous cheers, such as Cornell Victorious and of course, our alma mater. Outside of the stadium, fans found tents and tailgates set up by various organizations and groups from around campus and throughout Ithaca. It was a great time to learn about all that Cornell has to offer while celebrating school spirit within the Cornell community!
Additionally, each year the Cornell Big Red Marching Band’s annual Homecoming performance draws in many alumni excited to hear “the only REAL marching band in the Ivy League”, as stated by the band’s motto. Perhaps the most special aspect of the performance, and a favorite of this year’s attendees, was the inclusion of the Alumni Band, where former Big Red Band members were welcomed, as they are every year, to bring their instruments and perform alongside other members, both current and alum. One of the most famous songs of the Big Red Band is Give My Regards to Davy, featured below.
GIVE MY REGARDS TO DAVY
(Fight Song of the Big Red Band)
Give my regards to Davy,
Remember me to Teefy Crane,
Tell all the pikers on the Hill
That I’ll be back again.
Tell them of how I busted
Lapping up the high, high ball
We’ll all have drinks at Theodore Zinck’s
When I get back next fall.
As for the annual Homecoming concert, this year the Cornell Concert Commission brought in Daya and Saint Motel, and excited fans crowded Barton Hall to hear the artists. The concert is always a super exciting way to close off Homecoming weekend, and past artists included Avicii, Foster the People, and DNCE. This weekend was one full of memories, traditions, and reunions of friends. We can’t wait to see what Cornell Homecoming 2020 brings!
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10 Things to Know Before You Get a Puppy on Campus 11 Oct 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
I have always wanted a furry friend at school. My first thought was a kitten because of how little training needs to be done. But sadly, my dad is severely allergic to cats so that was not an option. My mind kept coming back to my one true love, a puppy. After months of consideration, I finally decided to adopt my pup Billie, a mini labradoodle, from Auburn NY.
I love Billie to death, but taking care of a dog can be tricky. And taking care of your own pupper is a whole different story. So here are some tips from your local puppy owner.
Get a crate
Chances are you’re going to have to leave the pup at some point to go to class, a student organization, or any other extra-curricular activity. Be prepared and begin crate-training your doggo over the weekend so she can get used to her special space before you have to leave her.
Treats, Treats, Treats
Whether you’re trying to teach your new puppy to sit, stay, heel, roll over or many other tricks, food is always a successfulI motivator. Let’s not lie to ourselves; if someone offered me a snack I would probably listen to what they had to say as well.
Get to know the surrounding dog friendly environments
There’s the Ithaca Dog Park, Stewart Park, Buttermilk Falls, Cascadilla Gorge and many other places for you and your pupper to enjoy some outdoor time. Your puppy will need the exercise and you’ll need to find a place to walk other than the streets of Collegetown.
Find some friends who love dogs
Even though you will be doing much of the puppy care yourself, everyone needs help sometimes. Enlist a few trusted friends to care for your pup when you’re sick, away, or gone for an extended period of time. It shouldn’t be difficult finding people looking for some puppy love.
Consistency is Key
No matter what you are trying to teach your pup, they may not pick it up on the first try (or even the 100th). Instead of getting frustrated, keep consistent. Puppies have little bladders and need to go out every two hours to ensure they don’t have an accident. Additionally, a feeding schedule is very important so your pup knows when it’s time to chow down.
Chew Toys
If your puppy is anything like mine she’ll want to chew on just about everything available. Your roommates won’t be so happy if they come home to their shoes chewed up. So, get plenty of toys your puppy can chew on instead of the couch, bed, or trash can. 4li
Check in with your Landlord
Many landlords in Ithaca DO NOT allow pets so make sure your apartment is pet friendly. Many of the Live More Ithaca residences are pet friendly such as 201 College and the Lux.
Get used to waking up early
Just because you like to wake up at 12:00pm doesn’t mean your pup can sleep that long. Be prepared to be taking your puppy out around 7:00-8:00am every morning until she is big enough to wait a little longer to go potty.
Accidents Happen
They just do with a new puppy. So, make sure you’re prepared with an odor eliminating cleaner and plenty of paper towels.
Have Patience
Your puppy is like a little baby. No matter how much time and diligence you devote to training your pup they are not a robot. So, take a deep breath and accept not everything is going to go perfectly.
Wishing you the best of luck with all your furry friends. I hope to see you at the Ithaca dog park sometime soon.
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The 5 Different Types of Students Over Fall Break 10 Oct 2019 8:00 AM (6 years ago)
With Fall Break right on the horizon, many students are patiently counting down the days until the long-awaited four-day break. As much as we all love Cornell and will miss daily Trillium salads and Dairy Bar ice cream, Fall Break provides a much-needed lull after the anxiety-filled prelim season. Walking across the Ag Quad or sitting in the Cocktail Lounge, all you hear is discussion over which Campus-to-Campus bus people are taking or what people’s first meals at home will be. There seems to be a consensus of a few particularly popular itineraries among the Cornell community.
1. The Lazy One
Between staying up late studying in Mann and aimlessly wandering Collegetown in search of coffee to keep them up, this person is desperate to catch up on sleep. From the second they step foot into their house, there is no chance they will leave. Halfway through the break, the Lazy One will get bored of their bed and will make the daunting journey to the living room couch. However, besides that, there will be limited movement, with binge-watching Netflix capping the extent of activity on their agenda. The Lazy One will come back well-rested, but will need to quickly transition back into the fast-paced life of a Cornell student.
2. The Traveler
The Traveler has become stir crazy from staying in Ithaca for the past month. Reluctant to go home, the Traveler is eager to visit their friends at other colleges that aren’t on a break. Big 10 schools are a major draw, making even Homecoming look low-key. Other Travelers opt for traveling with their families for a quick getaway or just simply walking down the block to their friend’s house for the weekend.
3. The Workaholic
Opting out of leaving Ithaca, the Workaholic doesn’t believe in breaks. Not only will they catch up on work, but they will also use the four days to get ahead on all other assignments. Prelim in a month? They’ll start studying. Paper due in 2 weeks? They’ll start drafting. Empty libraries and quiet dorms are the safe haven for the Workaholic. Perhaps the Workaholic will try and solidify the best study spot, watch the sunset from the Cocktail Lounge, or try the Uris “Harry Potter” library.
4. The Foodie
Despite the expansive choices offered throughout campus, the Foodie has been non-stop dreaming about their favorite foods from home. All of the Foodie’s friends have repeatedly heard about the iced coffee from their local bakery, the slice of pizza that’s 100 times better than Nasties and RPCC, and the bagels that debatably beat CTB. Their break is centered around where they want to eat and they will certainly be posting about their meals all over social media.
5. The Forgetful One
The excitement of the beginning of the semester can often overshadow the fact that breaks are coming up. The Forgetful One only just remembered that Fall Break is this weekend. Have they booked a bus home? Nope. Are they scrambling, asking everyone that lives in a 50-mile radius for a ride home? Of course. Will they learn their lesson and book their Thanksgiving or Winter Break tickets early on? Of course not.
Despite the variety of ways that people are choosing to spend their breaks, by the end of the four days, it will be refreshing to reunite with college friends. Make sure to enjoy the next few weeks of Halloween and yet another prelim season because before you know it, Thanksgiving break will be here.
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Why I’m Headed to New Zealand 10 Oct 2019 6:00 AM (6 years ago)
Everybody wants to be seen. We want our stories to transcend beyond the fences of our front yards. And not only do we want them recited and explored; we want them celebrated, protected, and accurately depicted.
I encountered these themes heavily this summer. I worked with them closely during my time as a Diversity Fellow at The Adirondack Experience: The Museum on Blue Mountain Lake. I faced these truths head-on when my multicultural hometown of El Paso, TX was shaken by a domestic terrorist attack. After grieving this tragic event, I kept asking myself, how are my people, Latinos and mixed-raced individuals, being treated and represented in other Western societies? Are they too suffering oppression from issues of/related to immigration? In these other international circles, do other minorities and immigrants struggle with nationality in the same way I wrestle with what it means to be an American? I then wondered, where is the last place I’d suspect to find another Black, German, and Mexican woman? New Zealand was the first country that came to mind.
Instantly, I began researching statistics of Latinos in New Zealand and the numbers were quite small as I had predicted. Beyond that, the experiences they shared were drastically different. Fueled with a desire to discover more for myself, I decided it was time to get started on my application to study at The University of Auckland for the Spring 2020 semester. One of the most enriching aspects about studying abroad through the College of Arts & Sciences is direct enrollment. Unlike other programs where visiting students are kept feeling like tourists, this allows me to enroll in courses directly at The University of Auckland and have a full college experience. I will be mixed in with other students and treated as a peer which is exciting, allowing me to truly see what university is like in another country. The classes I’m looking forward to taking the most are Pacific Music & Dance and the Rise & Fall of the USA. The former will most definitely expand my singer-songwriter toolkit, while the latter ties right into why I’m headed to Auckland in the first place — to see the American and mixed identity crisis through the lens of another Western culture. I am especially interested to see if the course tackles border relations and how Mexican Americans are portrayed.
Being the social butterfly that I am, I’m also eager to expand my community beyond North America. I have never left the continent. The most I’ve travelled out of the country are short trips to the other side of the fence in my hometown, and a quick visit to Montreal. I’m always looking for good conversation and I can’t wait to see what I’ll record as a writer. I plan to join the university’s Club Latino and capture the stories of students from similar backgrounds and later share them with the Cornell community by continuing to write for Slope during my time away.
I remember thinking that studying abroad would be impossible for me. I believed that being a student on significant financial aid meant that the odds of studying in a different country were slim to none. But boy was I wrong and I’m so glad I was. Turns out financial aid follows you and there are many scholarships out there to help students have international experiences. A semester abroad is perfect for those seeking an adventure that will challenge them holistically during their college career. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime, so I’m making the most of my resources.
I can already see it… a new perspective and a new hope to return to the States with.
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My Review of the Lion King 9 Oct 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
The Lion King is probably my favorite Disney movie of all time. The iconic yelling at the beginning of the movie, the calmness of Mufasa’s voice, the music, and of course, Simba coming to reclaim his rightful place on Pride Rock – all classic moments. So naturally, when Disney announced that they were going to produce a live-action remake of the movie, I bought my ticket two weeks in advance to make sure that I would be one of the first in-line the theatre.
I was excited for many reasons. I loved the Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella remakes, so I figured Disney would do a good job with the Lion King. As far as casting goes, I was thrilled when Disney revealed that James Earl Jones would be reprising his role as Mufasa, and that Beyonce would be joining the cast. And that trailer? INTENSE.
I went to see the movie two days after it came out. I was shaking with anticipation, despite being in a theater full of small children. When the movie was over, I wasn’t disappointed, but I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would. As I watched, I was impressed with the beautiful imagery and the solid music choices. Timon and Pumba were just as hilarious as the cartoon version, and Childish Gambino did a great job as Simba, but it just didn’t wow me like Beauty and the Beast or Cinderella. Maybe it’s because the plot was exactly the same as the cartoon, or that Beyonce was a little too overpowering on the soundtrack. My expectations might have been too high, but in any case, Disney didn’t quite hit the nail on the head for me with The Lion King.
My opinion, however, seems to be in the minority. The Lion King has made over a billion dollars worldwide and received mostly positive reviews. Since this is the first time I didn’t love a Disney movie, I am curious to see how the remake of Mulan turns out.
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Tones and I says “The Kids Are Coming” and They’re Ready To Raise Hell 8 Oct 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
As the “Dance Monkey” epidemic spread throughout the world, reaching top charts in 31 countries, the Australian singer Tones and I decided to change the vibe of her next track, “The Kids Are Coming,” which focused on making a political statement about the state of the world right now.
“The Kids Are Coming” is a bold track that addresses divide in perspectives between traditional older adults and younger generations’ cries for social and institutional change. Paired with an eerie tune, Tones and I calls out issues like gun violence, climate change, and corrupt politics. Her song very clearly mocks an older generation that looks down on children looking to make a change. The menacing melody that continues throughout the debut EP further drives in her point that children are a force to be reckoned with.
Although the caption of the music video that Tones and I released only a few days ago is, “A very happy young girl looking forward to a bright and wonderful future,” the video shows anything but that. The caption is a nod to what Donald Trump said to mock Greta Thunberg as she continues in her fight against climate change, the exact phenomenon that Tones and I addresses in her song. The music video for the striking song includes hundreds of young adults marching through dark streets with fierce, angry expressions. As the camera scans the crowd, there is no innocent, childhood warmth conveyed but rather solemn, grieving teenagers. The images of the teens are overlaid with clips of natural disasters, protests, wars, guns, and probably the most hard-hitting of all, a basic video of kids walking off a yellow school bus into a school building.
Tones and I hit the nail on the head with the production of her message, and she manages to roll all of the emotions that kids feel in this moment in history into a simple track and video. She drives in her point by turning young adults, meant to represent the future and inspiration, into sinister figures. I look forward to seeing more of her work that pushes boundaries by drawing attention to current issues the world is facing, but for now, I’ll continue to jam out to Dance Monkey whenever it comes on.
Watch the music video below!
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Why I Quit the Sport I Love 7 Oct 2019 5:18 AM (6 years ago)
I used to wear the same necklace every single day.
It was a long, silver chain that wrapped around my neck, bearing a horseshoe that dangled right below my throat. I can still remember the night I first held it, twinkling in the dim lighting of the restaurant’s overhead bulbs.
My longtime coach (and his wife) presented me the jewelry a week after my 16th birthday. I was in the peak of my junior squash career, traveling across the country to compete in tournaments almost every weekend. It was tradition to have a nice dinner near the conclusion of every tournament, and as my mom, coach, and his wife sat around a small wooden table, I broke down into uncontrollable tears.
This weekend marked the last competition I’d be playing for that summer. It was a simultaneous mix of both relief and anxiety: knowing I’d have a short two-week break after my last match, but also facing the uncertainty of the upcoming season.
Once I signed onto a tournament, I’d feel a numbness and fear that’s almost impossible to replicate. It’s an unshakable feeling, a combination of dread and anxiety that builds itself, in increments, higher and higher until I step onto the court.
From the start to finish of every match, I’d feel like a wholly different person. I wouldn’t hear the jeering of my opponents’ parents and friends, I wouldn’t hear the referees calling out the quickly rising score, I wouldn’t hear the pleading cries of my coach behind the glass, and I wouldn’t hear my pounding heart, searing my chest as I huffed and heaved.
After several failed, desperate ploys to lessen the emotional burden I carried throughout those eight years, it was crazy to think that I would still be competing as I entered Cornell a wide-eyed freshman.
I’d played on a co-ed high school team at my local public school, where only a handful of students had ever even heard of the sport, let alone competed in it. So, when I was recruited by former world No.1 David Palmer, I was ecstatic. I finally felt appreciated, validated for my work over the past decade.
For my entire senior year, as I watched my peers struggle with applications, essays, and interviews, I felt the tension ease off my shoulders, like slipping off a backpack after a long day. I looked forward to coming to Cornell; I wondered what it was like playing on an official women’s team, even if it did mean I’d have to wear a dress in lieu of my signature shorts while I competed.
So, when I arrived on campus for the first time my freshman year, I couldn’t wait to join the team. I was eager to improve myself both mentally and physically, on and off the court.
One year on the team, however, only worsened my unresolved anxiety and self-image issues.
I feel partially to blame; I expected years of anxiety and self-loathing to simply fix themselves as soon as I came to Ithaca. It was clear from early last year that I was struggling to keep myself positive and healthy. And it was only at the start of this semester that I realized it’s okay to put yourself first and ask for help when you need it.
September marked some of my lowest points: the dual pressures of school and squash allied themselves to push me down each time I thought I could pick myself up. Early this semester though, I started going to counseling, called my parents more often, and I let my coaches and captains know that I needed some time to figure out what exactly my purpose at Cornell was.
I knew that I wouldn’t feel fulfilled or happy if I was constantly occupying my head with thoughts of when I’d have to walk back on court. I couldn’t hang out with friends on short notice. I couldn’t eat what I wanted without feeling massive guilt and regret. I couldn’t join any clubs or student organizations that met too often, lest it get in the way of practice times.
I just never really got my footing during my freshman year, because I got so wrapped up in trying to invest in a team that didn’t truly give me any meaning.
That isn’t to say I didn’t love the people I met on the team; I still think Cornell’s team has some of the kindest, funniest, and most caring people I’ve ever met.
But, I had to free myself from the outer identity I’d tried to create for myself when I first came to college. I don’t think I could handle representing Cornell knowing that I barely knew who I represented myself. I need to find my passions, my values, and my identity here on my own terms, even if it means giving up this façade that I’ve known for over half my life.
My identity doesn’t need to be static. That’s the scary part about this whole process. I’ve just opened up a seemingly infinite number of doors, each leading me to their own teams, their own projects, their own versions of who I am.
I stopped wearing my horseshoe recently. I’m starting to feel more like myself already.
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An Open Letter to the People Who Bring Their Smelly Lunches to Class 6 Oct 2019 8:00 AM (6 years ago)
That’s right, you know who you are. You’re the person who whips out their cardboard box of chicken from Trill the second the clock strikes 1:25pm. The one who pulls out a warm tuna fish sandwich from your backpack mid-lecture. The one who decides to have a a full spread banquet across your 1 ft by 1 ft desk. You’re the person who doesn’t care that the windows are sealed tightly shut and that our classroom in Rockefeller has no air conditioning. We are suffering and it is time to address this problem once and for all.
I don’t mean to be rude. But on the other hand, I would love to get through a lecture without holding my nose. Typing with only one hand is not an easy feat.
Don’t get me wrong; I get it. Days are long. It’s class after class with no break. One minute you’re sitting in McGraw and the next you have a 15 minute window to get to your class in Warren 16 minutes away. Life’s tough! But stop punishing the rest of us with the potent odors of fried food and sounds of aggressive chewing. I’m over it and so is at least half the class.
I’m not saying don’t eat in class. But what’s the harm in packing a protein bar? A nice cheese stick? Perhaps a turkey sandwich? I’m just spitballing here. There’s gotta be an alternative to the smelly and intrusive lunch options. We need to find a middle ground.
Believe me; I know that Mac’s flatbreads are awesome and that Terrace burrito bowls are to die for. But, PLEASE, for the love of Ezra Cornell (may he rest in peace), STOP EATING THESE THINGS NEXT TO ME IN CLASS!
Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk.
Sincerely,
Tired of Spending 75 Minutes Smelling Your Food
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Why You NEED to Check Out This Year’s Homecoming Concert 4 Oct 2019 12:31 PM (6 years ago)
If you can get through the brisk fall weather, lightly attended sports games, and other Big Red festivities, one event you must make it to this Cornell homecoming is the Homecoming Concert, presented by the Cornell Concert Commission.
Here are seven reasons why the homecoming concert is a must-attend in order to round out your Cornell homecoming experience:
Daya will be there.
If you don’t know who Daya exactly is, she’s the vocalist on The Chainsmokers’ hit “Don’t Let Me Down”. She also came out with the female empowerment jam “Sit Still, Look Pretty.” We’re always here for an artist speaking up on social issues.
You can switch up your usual frat music for some indie pop by Saint Motel.
But it’s not too indie, you know? If you wanna check some of their music before the show, two of their classics are “My Type” and “Move” (both of which are frequently featured on David Dobrik’s vlogs).
There’s only ONE Homecoming weekend a year, so why miss such a major event?
Even though you might be beat from the fun-filled day of events, we know you can rally.
Amidst the hectic Homecoming day, it’s always nice to have a plan for the night that’ll be a guaranteed good time.
Saint Motel has great stage presence
An energetic band from L.A. that really knows how to perform is bound to be a great way to end your Homecoming day.
The band has also performed at Gov Ball and was written up by Forbes Magazine
Basically, the Homecoming Concert will be MUCH cheaper than Governor’s Ball….how can you say no?
Nothing is better than a night filled with good music surrounded by good friends
so don’t miss this year’s show.
Presale tickets are $19 for students, $26 for the general public on www.cornellconcerts.com. Doors open at 7pm, and the concert starts TOMORROW at 8pm @ Barton Hall.
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The Do’s and Don’ts of Your First Prelim Season 4 Oct 2019 6:00 AM (6 years ago)
Prelim season is upon us, and for first-year students who have not yet experienced a Cornell exam, this can be daunting. Here are some tips and tricks for how to survive the upcoming weeks.
DO bring snacks.
Before your trip to Mann, make sure you pick up some study snacks from Nasties. These will really get you through the cram sessions.
DON’T miss out on sleep.
There’s a reason Cornell’s libraries aren’t all open 24/7 – it’s important to rest up during exam season to make sure you’re well-rested and on the top of your game. If you get enough sleep before each prelim, you can focus and be more attentive.
DO exercise.
Even just a short walk around Beebe Lake can help alleviate some of the pre-test nerves.
DON’T cram.
Saving 300 pages of textbook readings until the night before they are due might seem like a good idea- that is, until the night comes and you begin to regret every decision you’ve ever made. Make sure to plan ahead and not to save too much work for the last minute.
DO form study groups.
Study groups are helpful for collaborating or creating study materials. Plus it’s a great way to get to know your classmates and maybe even make new friends.
Lastly, DON’T stress.
While these prelims may seem daunting, you’ll likely be going through them at the same time as your friends and peers around you. Just do your best and take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone.
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DIY Tutorial: Last Minute Homecoming T-shirt 3 Oct 2019 5:34 AM (6 years ago)
Do you have too many prelims this week? Me too. Are you struggling to find an outfit to wear to homecoming this weekend? Or are you tired of wearing the same tube top as every other girl on campus?
If any of these spoke to you, try this quick and easy tutorial to transform an ordinary t-shirt into a homecoming-worthy fashion statement.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A CORNELL t-shirt (*Tip: Bear Necessities in CTown has Cornell t-shirts in the sale rack for $10 if you don’t want to cut up one you might already have!)
- Scissors
- Chalk or a marker
STEP 1
- First, use the chalk to draw a straight line from the collar to about an inch below the sleeves on each side. You should also leave some space between the top of the collar and where you start the line.
- Cut a slit at the line under the sleeves, but cut only the front part of the shirt up to the collar (do NOT cut the collar!)
STEP 2
- Turn the shirt over and draw a straight line again from the collar to the point below the sleeves where you have cut the slit. This time, the lines should start farther from the top of the collar so that the fabric is thinner in the back than the front.
- Cut the sleeves off, remembering not to cut through the collar
STEP 3
- Draw a line on the BACK side where you would like to cut off the length.
- Cut up the SIDES of the shirt up to the line.
- Then, cut over the line, but only through the back side. It should look like the picture on the right.
STEP 4
- Turn the shirt to the front side and make a slit straight up the middle to the point where the back side ends.
- Cut diagonal lines from bottoms of the middle slit to the side slit.
STEP 5
- Tie the front two pieces, and now you have your homecoming shirt!
- Pair it with a cute bralette or bandeau to spice up the sides.
Now you have the perfect shirt to wear to the game (if you manage to make it there)!
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How I Learned to Love Salad 3 Oct 2019 5:15 AM (6 years ago)
I don’t know about you, but I used to not trust people who said they liked salad. To me, salad was a bland side dish that people ate when they were trying to “be healthy.” However, this summer my hatred turned into a great love.
During the summer, I was working a 9 am – 5 pm job at an office in New York and interns received paid lunch. I was really excited about this until I found out that this free lunch was often to salad places, which quite frankly, I thought was a cheap cop-out from my boss. To avoid eating these salads I would stock up on overpriced sausage, egg, and cheese croissant sandwiches from Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks. This plan ultimately failed. I would crash and still end up hungry during lunch – making me angry at everyone including myself.
I knew what I had to do, suck it up and eat a goddamn salad like an adult. As I was waiting in the long line to order my salad, I kept thinking to myself, “Why is everyone so hype about lettuce?” It was my turn to order and I saw how similar the salad bars were to Chipotle, another one of my favorite places to eat. Having this sense of familiarity, I chose an exaggerated amount of toppings and I fell in love with salad with my first bite.
Salads are probably one of the most complex meals you can eat. You can load up on proteins and it will fill you up for hours. It works with every dietary restriction: you can put meat, fish, no meat, and even no dairy and it will still be satisfying. Salads can be sweet, sour, or salty. If you’re not really hungry, salads can make a great snack. You can eat salads at essentially any time of the day depending on the ingredients you mix it with.
My dramatic switch to salads changed my life for the better (I swear). I feel healthier and more satisfied in the long run when I eat salads vs when I eat something super processed like Shake Shack. Fast foods tend to be good in the moment, but often left me feeling bloated and sleepy. And if you’re a coffee lover like me, salads are a great way to make sure you get some daily water intake.
My experience this summer filled a gap in my heart, I can now enjoy a dish that doesn’t make my stomach hurt (shoutout to you lactose-intolerant folks). Salads are my go-to dish when I need to eat something fast but satisfying. As of now, I can’t say I have a go-to salad because it really depends on my mood (I can say that avocado lime is my favorite dressing though).
Thanks to my summer diet being dominated by salad, I’m not as judgmental of people who choose to get one at a dining hall rather than a traditional entree.
When in doubt, grab a salad — you won’t regret it.
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Kanye West: The Prodigal Son 2 Oct 2019 8:30 AM (6 years ago)
Kanye West, a groundbreaking leader in the music game, is set to release his 9th studio album soon. While die hard Kanye fans are excited for this upcoming album, many fear that the Kardashian curse has already taken ahold of his musical genius.
This upcoming album, Jesus is King, was leaked earlier, in August, under the name of Yandhi. The leaked album had several songs, all varying in sound. It featured a combination of gospel rap and hip hop songs. While the leaked album was well received by those who got a chance to listen before it was taken down, there were some who criticized his sudden venture with gospel music.
While gospel rap is nothing new to Kanye West, with songs like “Wouldn’t Leave” and his work with Chance the Rapper, his new obsession seems to be a perversion of black gospel music so that it is palatable for the white ear. His Sunday Service, which seems to just be exclusive Kanye concerts for the rich and famous, features gospel renditions of popular songs and merch. The merch, which features “Jesus Walks” socks at a harsh $50, goes against the message he speaks to in his services.
Kanye’s new album, Jesus is King, has been long anticipated. Some people hope it is a return of the “old Kanye / straight from the ‘Go Kanye / Chop up the soul Kanye / set on his goals Kanye”. Others believe that this MAGA loving, slavery was choice believing, Kim Kardashian’s husband Kanye West cannot be saved. Either way, the new album is sure to make headlines and I for one cannot wait to give it a listen.
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A Guide to Living with Thin Walls 2 Oct 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
You’ve finally made it to Cornell and not only that, you lucked out and got the newest dorm on campus: Court-Kay-Bauer! But, you quickly discover the one major flaw to this seemingly perfect dorm…
You. Can. Hear. Everything.
The walls are so thin that you can literally hear the person living next to you sneeze. And don’t be surprised if you wake up an hour early when you hear your neighbor’s alarm going off. What are you supposed to do? Here’s a guide on how to survive living with thin walls!
Your headphones are your new best friend
Think you’re dependent on your headphones now that you’re in college? Think again. You’ll never want to take them out of your ears. Investing in noise-cancelling headphones might just be the thing that stops you from going crazy. Blaring music directly into your ears at all times is a must if you want to get anything done in your room.
Watch out for what you say
If you don’t want people on your floor to know your personal secrets that you’re gossiping to your best friend about, leave the room. If you’re talking about someone nearby, leave the room. Are you confused as to why your neighbor is suddenly ignoring you? Make sure to watch what you are saying. No one is safe.
Use the common room
It’s best to attack when no one is in sight. This way, you can unpack all of your stuff, put your phone on full volume, and set up camp. Talk with ease in the common room and take up as much room as possible so that no one even has the nerve to come in. Essentially, make the common room your room.
So even though the thin walls may make it feel like you have seventeen people living in your room, you can take these steps to minimize the noise and stay sane. Living with noise is just a part of the experience of living in CKB, but you’ll learn to love it and eventually find your home!
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Looking Forward to Life after Cornell: The Two Different Types of Alumni 1 Oct 2019 6:00 AM (6 years ago)
With every phone call, my mom never fails to remind me that I only have eight months left at Cornell. I never believed people when they said how quickly it would pass. But by the time I got to second semester sophomore year, I realized that they were right. In high school, I felt like I had to tackle everything day by day, whereas in college I go week by week because of how fast things are thrown at me. O-week turns into prelim season, and before you know it, you’re halfway through the semester. So as I creep closer and closer to graduation, it’s time to start thinking about life after Cornell.
After seeing people graduate over the last three years, I have discovered that there are two different kinds of recent grads or young alumni. The first is one who has yet to let go of college: three years post-grad they still describe college as the “the best four years” of their life, and they can’t see themselves thinking any differently any time soon. They haven’t changed their Facebook profile picture (granted no one really uses Facebook that much anymore) since their Spring Break trip senior year. Now there’s nothing wrong with loving college. But it’s just hard to imagine that all the years ahead of you don’t get better. It’s disheartening to hear when people talk about hating their jobs, or when they say “don’t graduate” because the real world sucks.
That’s when the second kind of young alumni kicks in. They are the ones who seem like they have this whole ‘real world’ situation figured out. They have a job that they like, or at least pretend to tolerate, or they are doing something that makes them happy. Their Instagram looks like a never-ending vacation, because they use their allotted days wisely so that they can go on trips that would never be possible for broke undergrads. Their profiles highlight hobbies which help them get through the workweek as well as the new friends they have made in their new city. And when they come back to campus, they make you feel like graduation is not actually that scary.
So knowing this, I hope to try and be the second type of alumni when I graduate in the Spring – the kind that looks at college as a great experience, but with the knowledge that there is so much more to do once it’s over. It’s like Bill Nye said, we have to work together (and not just to stop climate change). The same way that we lean on each other during our undergrad years, we can use each other after we leave Cornell to figure out what makes us happy in the real world. It can be getting together with friends every Wednesday after work for a ‘family’ dinner, going to spin classes, planning vacations, or finding a recreational sports league. We should bounce ideas off of each other to experience new things and find ways to make our post grad years equally as fun, if not more fun than our college experience.
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12 Things to do Senior Year… Instead of Stressing About Getting a Job 30 Sep 2019 5:21 AM (6 years ago)
It feels like just yesterday I was writing my first Slope article as a sophomore transfer. The thought of graduating and finding a job seemed so far down the road. Now, I’m 22, beginning my senior year and trying to wrap my head around the fact that in just eight months I have to be a real person.
If you’re like me, your senior year is consumed with job hunting. And worse than the job hunting itself is the constant talk with friends and family members about jobs, interview prep, and which company just messaged you on Handshake. Rather than get caught up in the stress of planning for the future, take a minute and enjoy what you have right in front of you. Here are 12 things to do instead of talking about your plan after Cornell.
Go to the Cornell Botanic Gardens
Up until this year I had never been to the Botanic Gardens. I’m so grateful for my 20 minute walk to Riley Robb Hall every Monday and Tuesday for Cannabis:Biology, Society, and Industry because without it, I would have never gotten to experience just how beautiful the gardens are. Oh and the best part? The gardens are totally free. How could you pass that up?
Sample the beers at Ithaca Beer Co.
Finally 21? Go try the many different beers Ithaca Beer Co. has to offer. What’s better than supporting a local company while drinking beer? Definitely not discussing how Becky has a return offer from J.P Morgan.
Have a BBQ at Stewart Park
Grab some friends, some burgers, and all the fixings. Stewart Park provides the grill, the sunshine, and the lake view. Highly recommend going during Golden Hour and watching the sunset.
Go watch the stars…. No seriously!
Go find an open field with no light pollution (there are many pretty close to campus), bring a blanket and some friends and gaze at the wonder that is the Ithaca sky. Sounds sketchy, I know, but I have seriously never seen stars like this before. Plus, it makes all of the stresses you deal with seem much smaller.
Go apple picking at Indian Creek Farm
My personal favorite spot to go apple picking, although there are many other viable options. Not only can you get fresh apples, but also tomatoes, peppers, and other seasonal vegetables. You’ve never tasted better produce.
Salsa Night at Agava
Never have I ever salsa danced- in fact, I am a pretty awful dancer in general- but Salsa night is one of my favorite Ithaca traditions. At 10:00pm trained salsa dancers lead introductory lessons for those truly interested in learning some salsa skills. But, if you just want to have a drink and dance for fun you can come by around 11:00.
Midnight Wegmans Runs
May not sound like the most exciting thing to do but Wegmans is a different animal at night. The worst thing about Wegmans is the crowds and at midnight, you guessed it, no crowds. Trust me, just go. It’s open 24/7!
Organize a wine tour
There are countless vineyards throughout Ithaca and the surrounding areas. Get a group of friends together and get outside before it gets too cold.
Go to Applefest
I hope by senior year you’ve gone to applefest at least once. If you have, go again. If not… GO next weekend to the commons. Apple cider doughnuts, mac n cheese, full turkey legs, what more could you ask for?
Hike around Beebe Lake
A 5 minute walk from the Botanic Gardens is the Beebe Lake trail. The entire trail is only about a mile long and leads you from the gardens all the way back to central campus.
See the Cornell horses
Who doesn’t want to hang with horses all day? Head down to the Equine Park and pay them a visit.
Go swimming in the gorges
There are so many gorges throughout Ithaca. Whether it be second damn or third the gorges are waiting for you to dive in.
Once you leave Cornell to enter the big world you’re going to miss all the little treasures Ithaca has to offer.
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What I’ve Learned While Living Alone 26 Sep 2019 5:20 AM (6 years ago)
This is the fourth week of school and the fifth week of living in my studio apartment. Yes, that’s right, just me in a room (you could say I jumped the gun freshman year… but that’s a story for another time). Anyways, living alone has its pros and cons, but more than anything, it is lonely. I signed my lease a year ago without considering how isolated I would feel. It’s quite a change from living in Donlon last year, where I was always surrounded by people whether I liked it or not. I consider myself very independent, but not being able to walk 10 steps and be at my best friends’ quad has taken some getting used to.
Despite how discouraging the FOMO is sometimes, I haven’t taken the time to consider the benefits of being on my own since coming back to school. While I do have to put in a little extra effort on the friend side, living alone is really helping me out with the whole ~adulting~ thing. In case you are considering signing for a studio or one-bedroom next year, here are some things to consider:
Budgeting is helpful
Part of living on your own means paying for things on your own. Rent, electric bills, groceries, and parking – it’s a lot to handle alone, and it can be hard to stay on track. Earlier this summer, I sat down with my mom (because we all know moms are undoubtedly the best at these things) and wrote up a budget that I would try to follow. She helped me determine reasonable amounts to spend from week to week, given how much I had saved up. This is IMMENSELY useful, because actually following it eliminates the stress of, you know, spending all your money.
You learn how to CLEAN like for real
You can vacuum? Oh, that’s cool. Having your own place means you’re responsible for cleaning up your own mess. This, along with budgeting, is probably one of the more useful skills when it comes to being self-sufficient. Knowing which cleaning products are needed for different things (toilets, showers, floors, etc.) and how to use them is something I never had a reason to learn until a few weeks ago. Now, I’m stocked: Windex, Soft Scrub, AND Mr. Clean? Go off.
I have always been a pretty neat person (maybe a little too neat), but in general, I think having to clean up after yourself makes you more cognizant of making messes in the moment. You might learn to take your shoes off at the door so you don’t track dirt in, just like your mom always told you. If you don’t wash your dishes, by the time the end of the week comes you have a heaping pile of plates and glasses that might take you half an hour to clean. After facing this a few times, you will probably realize that the task is easier and less daunting if you just do a little each day. Same with all the other cleaning you will have: if you do a little here and there, it’s not as bad as doing it all at once.
Decorations! Are! Fun!
Let your inner interior designer come out – you can make this place your own! It’s more than just one half of an already too small dorm room – it’s your bed and your walls, PLUS a bathroom, kitchen and potentially a living area. I love having so much space where I can add a personal touch, without anyone else’s input or stuff in my way. In my studio, I hung pictures all around my bedroom and living area, as well as in my kitchen and on the fridge. I also found these unique air plant holders on Amazon, which add a colorful 3-D element to the walls. My favorite color is blue, so my rugs, bedding, and other decor all pair well together. And don’t forget the fairy lights to create the ultimate ambiance! Adding decorations of all kinds definitely helps the apartment feel homier.
Making your own food is honestly enjoyable and rewarding
School is busy, work is hard, but giving myself the time to cook a semi-decent dinner every night has been a treat. I’ve always liked to cook, so I personally enjoy trying out simple recipes and making enough at the beginning of the week so that it lasts for a few days. Personally, I like to make my own food because there are things I enjoy that my family refuses to eat; this way, they don’t have to bear the smell of cooked broccoli! PLUS, a huge bonus of not having roommates is that you don’t have to worry about anyone else stealing your food – it’s all yours, baby!
Now, I know cooking isn’t everyone’s thing, but making something from scratch when you find the time can be fun and satisfying, both during and after. You get that “I made this myself” feeling, which truly makes it that much more exciting to eat. And if you burn something or set off the smoke detector, no worries – now you know for next time. Don’t forget to take a picture of your creation!
No roommates means living to your own stipulations
To me, this is the best part. The concept of living in a dorm with someone who you barely know is already tricky, but getting used to someone else’s habits and how they choose to live can sometimes be weird and uncomfortable. When living by yourself, you already know how you live! You’re OK with your own messiness or tidiness, and you only have to worry about your own schedule. Plus, you don’t have to wake up to your roommate’s “Duck” alarm in the mornings, or worry about walking in on something you don’t want to see…
You have the freedom to blast your music or Netflix at full volume, dance all throughout the apartment, or walk around naked – you do you! No compromises, no one is holding you back.
While I do miss having easy access to hang out with people, most of my day is spent on campus where that is not a problem. Sometimes, it’s nice to have a break from people, spend time in your own head, and have the opportunity to be productive (key since we’re here to study, after all). Living alone is a significant growing experience, you learn to survive all on your own, so if you have the chance, go for it!
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How About Forgiveness 25 Sep 2019 7:00 AM (6 years ago)
“You’ve never been with a good guy before.” My mom’s voice was stern, unbreakable even, as her poignant observation pierced me. Savage – I initially thought. But moments later, my mind was bombarded with movie clips of my past boyfriends, almost-boyfriends, awful dates and most horrifically, the person who I now refer to as that one guy.
Unsurprisingly, the only ex-boyfriend/fling who didn’t show up in the flashback of horrors was the one I had truly forgiven. He was someone so removed from the rest, that I knew my mother’s comment could never be alluding to him. Although it took more than a year to forgive him, I’ll never forget the surprise of finding a bouquet of roses delivered to my dorm all the way from Alabama. I’ll never forget him taking the time to visit me during the school year either. Moreover, I’ll never forget that he was once my best friend. It was late at night and I was sure he’d be sleeping. But that didn’t stop me from calling him immediately. He answered quickly. He was shocked by my words as I apologized for my past actions. And in those perfect five minutes, we forgave each other. The second that I hung up, I felt just that much lighter – until I didn’t anymore.
There they were, the faces of the unforgiven. There was my first boyfriend from a crazy religious family who told me I was demon possessed after sharing that I once struggled with depression. After that, some guy I barely knew from a party. Then, a 25-year-old Cornell grad student who was so upset that I was not interested in sleeping with him, he decided to leave me with the check for his dinner. There were several others. Yet the final one to yank my attention was that one guy: the deployed soldier who I fell for… who was secretly married the whole time that I let him be the center of my life. I carried this gang of heartbreakers everywhere I went without even knowing. They were the reasons behind my anxieties over relationships and the justifications behind my lowered self-esteem.
They were monsters. I couldn’t forgive them, yet I so desperately needed to for myself. I felt like I was dying as every man that I resented slowly ate away at me. I thought I had cried enough tears to grow a garden, but nothing grew from my wounds except for fear. Despite how much they had hurt me, reflecting on how beneficial my previous encounter with forgiveness had been is what ultimately pushed me towards mercy. I decided I was going to tell God and the birds and the rest of creation that I was done with these soul ties. When the time came for those ties to break, I broke. Tears rolled endlessly and screamed “I forgive you.” It was as if a tower inside of me, nearly the size of my spine, was now shattered to bits. I broke but it was an indicator of creation: me creating a clean space for me to feel alive again.
Today, I take in fresh air as I continue to rebuild everything I lost from two jammed packed years of heartbreak. That doesn’t mean shadows never attempt to knock on my door again. Rather, it means that I kick them out every time. I am finding that the love story I’ve been chasing is within myself – in the songs I sing, in the poems I write, and in the art I paint. When time permits, I take myself out on dates. I explore downtown Ithaca, discover new gorge trails, and dine at local eateries all while soaking in the joy of redefining myself. I am a new creation and I am certain that one day I will join another new creation in this crazy life.
Wherever this rebirth takes me, I will hold on to this: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
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5 Hacks for Your On-Campus Snack Attacks 24 Sep 2019 5:00 AM (6 years ago)
From one fellow snacker to another, hunger in the library is the worst kind, especially when you have to get down to work. Personally, I can’t focus for more than a few minutes if I’m hungry, but what’s worse is feeling snacky. I always carry extra packets of chips and an apple in my backpack to pick up my energy when I’m getting tired. If you’re staying at home to do homework, it’s easy: you can eat anything on-hand. Packing for a full day of school, however, is a bit more complicated. It requires more planning and forethought, but if done well can be equally delicious. Here are five snacks and snack-hacks to take with you to campus!
Overnight oats.
This became one of my favorite meals over the summer. The prep-time is minimal, and you can make any size portion you want, from a little pick-me-up snack to a decent-sized meal. You can experiment with different types of milk; my favorite is chocolate oat milk because it does not really taste like milk at all. You can also gauge how thick you’d like the oats by adding more or less milk. Put the combination of oats and milk in a reusable container (thank you, Target) and let it sit in the fridge overnight.
When you wake up, you can add a variety of toppings to your meal or snack: fresh or dried fruit, granola, coconut chips, nuts, chocolate chips, honey, or even Nutella for a special treat. You should eat the oats within a few hours of removing it from refrigeration, but it’s definitely a tasty lunch or mid-morning snack that will sustain you.
Buy a chip & dip Tupperware from Target
There’s no better snack than chips and dip! These types of snacks will entertain you for hours, and can be delicious and healthy. If you’re looking for ideas about how to use this two-spaced Tupperware container, try apples and peanut butter, carrots and hummus, or plain ol’ tortilla chips and guacamole.
Pepper boats
Pepper boats are a great snack, especially because you can eat them plain or with dressing if you don’t have much else in your fridge. If you do have food around, slice a pepper into four large pieces and fill them with chickpeas, feta cheese, nuts, or any other toppings you want! Similar to overnight oats, pepper boats can be made into a meal or a snack, so you can eat them at any time of the day.
Trail mix
Once again, an oh-so-easy customizable snack you can grab on the go. Throw in whatever dry snacks you can find: dried fruits, seeds, and chips of any kind. If you’re in the market for trail mix that’s ready to go, stop in the bulk section of Wegmans to fill your bag with whatever you want. My personal favorites include banana chips and coconut chips, but I also happen to have a sweet tooth…
Coffee cubes
Tired of watered-down iced coffee by the time you get to campus? I started to make coffee cubes, which are ice cubes made out of coffee! If you have a Keurig, you can make the coffee ahead of time, and then throw it in the freezer by spilling it over an ice tray.
These five easy-to-prepare snack hacks will make your longest days on campus all the more enjoyable and productive. There’s nothing better than zipping open your backpack to find a delicious snack, especially when your energy level is at a lull. Happy snacking!
The post 5 Hacks for Your On-Campus Snack Attacks appeared first on Slope Media Group.
31 Random Thoughts I Have on A Monday at Cornell 23 Sep 2019 6:01 AM (6 years ago)
I always wonder what’s going in everyone’s minds as they daydream during lecture, wait in line for their burrito bowl at Terrace, or walk to the Ag Quad in the morning for their 10:10s. There have to be some wacky thoughts and questions floating around, right?
Here are 31 random Cornell-thoughts that race through my mind on an average Monday:
1. Where are all of our blue lights?
2. I could go for 2 scoops of Big Red Bear Tracks from the Dairy Bar right about now.
3.Why don’t Zeus and Manndibles take BRBs?!
4. CTB can’t close.
5. Will I get a seat in my lecture in Baker 200?
6. I wonder if I’ve hit 10,000 steps yet today.
7. Greek Life will probably not be here anymore in 5 more years.
8. I should start a business, but I don’t know for what. (Mostly so that I can work in ehub though)
9. Should I try out a new library?
10. I miss living on North.
11. Why does bowling count as a gym class?
12. When’s it gonna start snowing?
13. I should go to the Farmer’s Market more often.
14. How is it that we all conveniently have 3 prelims scheduled within 25 hours instead of 24?
15. Who thought it was a good idea for Terrace to stop selling quesadillas?
16. If I were a building on a campus, I’d wanna be Gates.
17. Why aren’t mens varsity ice hockey tickets free?
18. I should go on more hikes through the gorges.
19. Will I get a table at Zeus? (prob not)
20. I wanna get a pretty picture of the sunset later today.
21. People should sit on the Slope more often.
22. There should really be a student gym in ctown.
23. Are my calves really better now than they were before I got here 3 years ago?
24. What time does Pokelava close tonight?
25. This campus is beautiful.
26. Class should be outside in the beginning of the semester.
27. What does Denice Cassaro look like!?
28. There should be more than 4 tennis courts behind Risley.
29. What new club could I start that doesn’t already exist here?
30. I should’ve been a Hotelie.
31. When’s Fall Break?!
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6 Stages of Watching Reality TV 16 Sep 2019 6:45 PM (6 years ago)
Calling All Reality TV Lovers!
Whether you’re an unashamed- or maybe moderately ashamed- fanatic of Bachelor Nation, Kardashian groupie, or Love Island devotee, Reality TV is a very real reality in many of our leisure lifestyles.
Call it what you want, but Reality TV is arguably more addicting than juuling. Convince me otherwise. If you’re anything like me, you probably experience these six stages of binging your favorite flavor of Reality TV- be it Bachelor in Paradise, America’s Got Talent, or Real Housewives.
Admission of guilt
First and foremost, just own up to it. SO WHAT if you follow Hannah B AND Tyler AND JPJ on Insta??? Embrace it.
Loss of brain cells
It’s just inevitable. Accept the fact that you spent 4 hours of your day watching other people live their lives.
Weird obsession
There’s nothing like catching yourself daydreaming at 2:36 p.m. on a Tuesday wondering how Stormi is just so ^%@* cute.
Fandom initiation
Okay, so now you’re hooked. And likely so are most of your friends. You will now waste an hour fighting over whether Caelynn should’ve picked Dean or Connor (Fun fact: Connor and I are Linkedin pals teehee).
Mindnumbing crisis
4 seasons and 3 episodes of Vanderpump Rules later and you need a break. So much TV can make your head hurt, it’s exhausting. I usually catch myself midwalk to the fridge when I admit it’s time for a break. It’s not you, it’s them.
Crawling back
Who are you kidding? Real life is just way too boring. Back to the TV you go!
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