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Showing posts from 2017

2017 Highlights

No year has challenged me more than 2017 did. In a lot of ways, this year was rough. But in a lot more ways, this year was fantastic. I made a lot of memories, accomplished projects I was proud of, and experienced more of the world. Each year I make a point to list out some of my favorite moments from the past 12 months, to remind myself of all the bright spots next time I'm feeling down. I like to share these moments with you, maybe you were a part of them, but even if you weren't, I hope that you had a great year and that 2018 is even greater. Let's do this.  January -Started my first real internship at Blender, felt inspired -Saw a production of Something Rotten! at the Benedum and met Adam Pascal, the original Roger in Rent, fangirled hardcore -Became Co-Opinions Editor of the Globe, had a blast February  -Experienced the beauty of Raccoon Creek State Park (in all it's icy glory) with Andrew -Interviewed Israel Centeno, a Venezuelan refugee,

Britain Sampler

Get settled and grab a cup of tea because this is going to be a long one folks! Three countries. Five hotels. Thirteen cities. Ten days. That was my vacation. My first trip overseas. My grand European tour. My family and I started in London and made our way North throughout England, up through Wales and Scotland, and then South back down to London, and we saw amazing things. Because it was my first time overseas and my parents' first time to the U.K. we decided to join a pre-determined tour. If you're interested in that here is the website: http://www.globusjourneys.com/tour/britain-sampler/ge/ Britain Sampler. That's truly what it was. Some of the places we went we spent mere hours in. If I were to go back I think I would attempt to go to a few fewer places and spend more time in each one. We started off in London which was a beautiful city. The mix of new and old architecture and the expanse of parks made me so happy. We saw beautiful art at the Victoria and Alb

Things I will miss about the U.K.

In one of my recent posts, I talked about things I wasn't expecting when I visited the U.K., here are some of the things I will miss the most now that I'm home. 1. Ancient architecture and I mean ancient . The United States has only been a country for about 240 years which really isn't that long when you consider that Great Britain has been around since the 10th century. As someone who loves history (y'all know how much I love George Washington) being in castles and towers that have been standing for centuries was otherworldly. If you ever make your way across the pond to London you must go to the Tower of London and Windsor Castle. 2. Three-course dinners, every night. Every time we had a dinner at our hotel we had a starter, a main, and a dessert. Every time. Dinner would start at around seven in the evening with wine and continue through three courses followed by coffee and tea. We would be at the table for two hours or more. It was nice not to rush since I u

Things I didn't expect in the U.K.

I just got back from a whirlwind 10 day trip throughout England, Wales, and Scotland. It was phenomenal. Before departing I knew there would be some cultural differences between the U.S. and the U.K., but there were a few things I didn't account for. Here are my top four: 1. Public restrooms, or "toilets," are not free. This was shocking to me, each town we visited had a public toilet with a coin-operated entry. There was even an employee at the door to give change if you didn't have the right coins. Using the restroom costs 20 pence, which is about 26 cents in American currency. The U.K. is willing to employ someone to give people change at a restroom. Let that sink in. 2. Hotel beds only have one sheet. Those of you who know me well know that I love Hampton Inns. I can't explain it, I just do. So when I first arrived at the Hilton London Metropole I figured I knew what I was getting into. However, I soon discovered that no matter what city I was in, on

Feminist Notebook

In honor of International Women’s Day 2017 I thought I would compile a list of causes, books, and online resources that seek to promote equality and educate the population. Feel free to check out any or all of my notes below. Definition of feminism: the advocacy of women's rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes Background: History of International Women’s Day: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/About Information about the Women’s March and the Day Without A Woman Strike: https://www.womensmarch.com/ Worthy Causes: Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/ Take action against legislators who wish to defund. He for She: http://www.heforshe.org/en Watch Emma Watson’s United Nations Speech here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-iFl4qhBsE American Civil Liberties Union: https://www.aclu.org/ Speak out against inequality: Find your PA Legislators: http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/ Find your House Rep: ht

2016 Highlights

I had a really great year. Aside from all the tragic celebrity deaths and the tragic election, 2016 was definitely one for the books. I want to remember all the great times I had this year, all the wonderful days with friends and family, and all the amazing new things I saw and experienced. So, I'm writing it all down (typing it up) and sharing it with you. Not to make anyone jealous, but so I can look back on this year and smile. January Became a copy editor for The Globe and loved every minute. Saw great art at The Mattress Factory and Randyland with Vince and Taylor. Started writing for The Odyssey. February Fell down in the street while walking to the symphony with Andrew, Carrie, and Alex but still had a great time. Enjoyed working in the Honors Office with Victoria, Laura, and Katie. Hiked 9 miles in Schenley Park on a warm day. March Went to New York City with Kris, Lindsey, Vince, and Taylor. Saw Something Rotten! and Phantom of the Opera. Celebrated Andr