The Final Stretch – Resources on Campus to Help Chug Along!
Here we go, the last two weeks of classes and a week of finals. I will officially be done with sophomore year in three short weeks – time flies at the University of Iowa. While it brings me relief to finally be done with another semester, it also makes me a little sad that I’ll … Continue reading The Final Stretch – Resources on Campus to Help Chug Along!
Here we go, the last two weeks of classes and a week of finals. I will officially be done with sophomore year in three short weeks – time flies at the University of Iowa. While it brings me relief to finally be done with another semester, it also makes me a little sad that I’ll be saying goodbye to my city for another summer. As these last few weeks come around, I wanted to remind everyone of a few of the resources provided at Iowa to help out with this final stretch. This time of the year is both busy and laid-back. . . it’s such a confusing time. While I don’t have as much homework anymore, I do have to begin studying for finals. It’s all about time management and self-discipline which isn’t always easy to manage. Here are a few resources at the University of Iowa that have helped and will continue to help me. Don’t forget to take advantage of all the things offered to us here! Group Fitness Classes @ Recreation Center If you’re a student, you can automatically participate in FREE fitness classes offered at the rec center. There is a variety of options from zumba, yoga sculpting, cardio/strength intervals, cycling, and much much more. Grab a friend and participate in a class. They don’t last longer than an hour, it’s led by great people, and they’re so much fun to be a part of. This not only serves as a great study break, but you’re also keeping active and healthy! <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-340 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.53-PM-300x77.png" alt="" width="456" height="117" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.53-PM-300x77.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.53-PM-768x198.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.53-PM.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 456px) 100vw, 456px" /> University Counseling Services This time of the year can get really heavy – and it’s important to check in with your mental health as well. Finals can get overwhelming, ending an academic year can bring about worries for the future, and much more. Sometimes it helps to take a step back and just debrief! The University of Iowa provides GREAT counseling services through Student Health that is easy to take advantage of. You can go one time, make it a weekly thing, or just pop in every once in a while – whatever works best for you. All you have to do to schedule an appointment is make a quick phone call and they’ll fit you in their schedule. Sessions last anywhere from forty minutes to an hour. It’s important to take care of yourself through these last few weeks. <img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-341 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.43.17-PM-300x58.png" alt="" width="541" height="105" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.43.17-PM-300x58.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.43.17-PM-768x149.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.43.17-PM.png 800w" sizes="(max-width: 541px) 100vw, 541px" /> Writing Center Although I still can’t decide if I’m happy one of my classes has a paper as the final, I’m rolling with it! Since it is a big part of my grade, I want to make sure it’s the best shape it will be in when I submit it. Through Iowa, I am able to schedule free 30-minute writing appointments with tutors! There are both graduate and undergraduate students that you can schedule appointments with. It’s easy, helps SO much with the process of writing papers, and they even have a little “coffee corner” at EPB that you can help yourself to when visiting. The staff and students are friendly and you walk out feeling more confident about your paper. You can visit as many times as you want as well. I usually visit once at the beginning and once at the end before submitting a paper. <img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-343 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.44-PM-300x155.png" alt="" width="372" height="192" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.44-PM-300x155.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.44-PM-768x397.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.44-PM-1024x529.png 1024w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.44-PM.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 372px) 100vw, 372px" /> CAB Activities Although I’ve never really participated in activies held by the Campus Activies Board, a lot of my friends have and they enjoy a lot of the events! One of their favorites are $3 movies at the IMU on weekends and the various concerts held through out the year. During finals week I know that they hold a lot of activies at the IMU such as a free pancake breakfast, 10 minute massages, free chips and queso from Chipote and more. A definite must to check out during finals week! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-342 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.35-PM-300x51.png" alt="" width="553" height="94" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.35-PM-300x51.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.35-PM-768x130.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/04/Screen-Shot-2019-04-20-at-7.42.35-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 553px) 100vw, 553px" /> The last three weeks are both exciting and overwhelming, but don’t forget all the resources available at the University of Iowa! Here we go Hawkeyes, the final stretch! Xoxo, Lizbeth
Hi guys! It’s been a LONG time since I’ve written – both on here and my personal blog. 🙁 (Which I hope to launch soon! I’ll try adding the link here in a later blog if you want to check that out too.) Life gets crazy, and boy have I been busy! I haven’t forgotten … Continue reading A second semester update!
Hi guys! It’s been a LONG time since I’ve written – both on here and my personal blog. (Which I hope to launch soon! I’ll try adding the link here in a later blog if you want to check that out too.) Life gets crazy, and boy have I been busy! I haven’t forgotten you guys though. I’m still here and will continue to be and hopefully my experiences can help you out too – just the way others’ Experience Iowa blogs have helped me (and still do, haha). Since last writing, A LOT has changed. I feel like a new human! CommUnity certified Crisis Line volunteer Last semester I was accepted into a volunteer program that I am super passionate about! Through CommUnity, I was able to become a certified suicide prevention counselor. The training was long but every moment was more impactful than the last, & it was one of the most eye-opening things I’d ever completed. I was able to become ASIST certified and can now communicate with individuals all over the United States and help them through a crisis. It is such an amazing program, and if you’re at all interested you can do some research on it because the demand of volunteers is growing! I promise, it is a volunteer program you will not regret committing to. UI Pen Pal program Iowa City is my second home and I felt a desire to connect with my community more, so I applied for a super neat program called the UI Pen Pal program. You first fill out a mini survey about yourself, and the people in the Center for Diversity and Enrichment match you with a young kid in middle school that’s similar to you. Basically, I get to communicate with my “buddy” through letters, then get to spend a whole day with her sometime in April! You’re not only being a friend, but a role model as well. This isn’t just a fun program to be a part of, but it looks amazing on resumes & you really do learn a bit about yourself through the process. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-336 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/03/Screen-Shot-2019-03-25-at-4.32.53-PM-300x182.png" alt="" width="300" height="182" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/03/Screen-Shot-2019-03-25-at-4.32.53-PM-300x182.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/03/Screen-Shot-2019-03-25-at-4.32.53-PM-768x467.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2019/03/Screen-Shot-2019-03-25-at-4.32.53-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Women’s Wellness and Counseling Clinic internship The thing I love the most about Iowa is that the people here will always encourage you to keep learning – there really is no limit to that. Through the Psychiatry unit at the hospital I have been able to make so many connections and receive various opportunities because once the doctors I work for have taught me and showed me everything they possibly can, they introduce me to new people. The professors and staff at Iowa never want to hold you back, they’ll always want you to keep moving forward. I have been crazy blessed and am now the first undergrad to work for the WWC since opening up in 2010. Since they know I want to focus on counseling psychology, they have taken me under their wing and have been teaching me the field. I am so excited to officially start in the fall of 2019! American Association of Suicidology conference Another opportunity I was grateful enough to receive was an invitation to the AAS conference in Denver, Colorado! Through CommUnity and the connections I have made at the hospital, I am able to attend such a neat conference to become a better equiped counselor for the CommUnity center and hopefully one day my career! It’s pending because as neat as this opportunity is, it is not connected to the U of Iowa so I have to get approved by all professors before missing four days of classes. However, I say take in every opportunity you can, and if it ends up not working out then you will always know in the back of your head that there was the possibility of it. Most of the time, the professors will encourage opportunities such as this one. So, go for it! BEST test scores (thus far) Based off of personal decisions, I set out a majority of my “free time” in the library. I knew what type of student I had the potential of being, and knew I hadn’t been giving it my ALL this past semester. Although I was still getting good grades, I knew that I could push myself even further. This semester I wanted to take initiative of that so I set high goals in academics and it led me to the best semester I’ve had my entire time at Iowa. The feeling is unbeatable. I can assure you once you see such high grades you won’t want to go back and studying just becomes a habit – a “routine” that you actually don’t mind doing because of the end results. The University of Iowa is a never-ending place of opportunities. They’re all around us, in every corner! Take initiative of what you want to become a part of because the opportunities are here, you just have to snatch them. Xoxo, Lizbeth
I survived yet another semester here at the University of Iowa! The two weeks leading up to finals and the week of finals is a crazy, crazy, crazy time. Trust me, you’re not the only one that thought they were losing their mind. But guess what. . . we did it. This year I am so … Continue reading Another amazing semester, in the books!
I survived yet another semester here at the University of Iowa! The two weeks leading up to finals and the week of finals is a crazy, crazy, crazy time. Trust me, you’re not the only one that thought they were losing their mind. But guess what. . . we did it. This year I am so very thankful for everything that happened. Although I’ll admit it isn’t my favorite out of the three semesters I’ve had here, it’s definitely one packed with memories. It was a lot easier than last year’s fall semester, but it still brought along its own challenges and learning experiences. Secret is, every semester will. I learned a lot about myself yet again, made a couple new amazing friends, and completed all of my gen ed’s! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-323" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9999-169x300.jpg" alt="" width="169" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9999-169x300.jpg 169w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9999.jpg 450w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 169px) 100vw, 169px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-324" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_1437-169x300.jpg" alt="" width="169" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_1437-169x300.jpg 169w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_1437.jpg 451w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 169px) 100vw, 169px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-326" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_2141-219x300.jpg" alt="" width="219" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_2141-219x300.jpg 219w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_2141.jpg 583w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 219px) 100vw, 219px" /> This semester taught me that in order to sustain friendships there has to be effort, good grades will simply not just come to you, never attempt to pull off an all-nighter because sleep is seriously so important, and getting involved on campus now is important for your future. I learned so much more and I will continue to learn even more during my time here at Iowa. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-322 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9739-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9739-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9739-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_9739.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> This coming semester I will officially only be taking classes that pertain to my major and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s going to be hard, but I’m ready to indulge in all of the information I’m about to tackle down to prepare me for my future. As soon as you’re done with all gen ed’s, classes will become so exciting! They might be some of the hardest classes you take, but they will feel so satisfying to complete. You will see the value in each class and you will be reassured that what you chose to study is exactly what you want to do. If not, you will know then to switch it up. I am in love with my school, the people it has brought me, the opportunities it has opened up for me, and the endless lessons it has taught me. So thank you to the University of Iowa, you were one of the best choices ever! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-325" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_4003-164x300.jpg" alt="" width="164" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_4003-164x300.jpg 164w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_4003.jpg 437w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 164px) 100vw, 164px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-321" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/fullsizeoutput_6310-206x300.jpeg" alt="" width="206" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/fullsizeoutput_6310-206x300.jpeg 206w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/fullsizeoutput_6310.jpeg 550w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 206px) 100vw, 206px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-327" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_0637-219x300.jpg" alt="" width="219" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_0637-219x300.jpg 219w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/IMG_0637.jpg 583w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 219px) 100vw, 219px" />
There are so many hidden gems here in Iowa City. From small gift shops, rooftop restaurants, and my favorite – coffee shops! Iowa City has so many, and luckily I’ve been able to check most of them out. Coffee shops are my favorite places to study, catch up with friends, or even grab a quick … Continue reading More coffee, please!
There are so many hidden gems here in Iowa City. From small gift shops, rooftop restaurants, and my favorite – coffee shops! Iowa City has so many, and luckily I’ve been able to check most of them out. Coffee shops are my favorite places to study, catch up with friends, or even grab a quick coffee if I know I’ll need to caffeine kick for the day. These are just some of my favorite coffee places you can check out here in our favorite place, Iowa City. The High Ground Cafe This coffee shop is a little off campus, but it’s definitely worth the walk. The wifi will never let you down, the staff is super friendly, and the large window-walls make for a great view of the city. Although their drinks aren’t my favorite, the sandwiches there are to die for. I recommend any panini – they throw in a huge side of chips. Every person I’ve met there is super friendly and will strike up a conversation. I love the atmosphere! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-280" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-300x197.png" alt="" width="300" height="197" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-300x197.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-768x504.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-281" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM-202x300.png" alt="" width="202" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM-202x300.png 202w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM.png 539w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 202px) 100vw, 202px" /> The Java House This place will always have a piece of my heart. It was the first coffee shop I found here at the University of Iowa and I’ve loved it ever since. Their white mocha is a must, so if you’re a newbie I would recommend that. You won’t be disappointed. Although it’s hard to snatch a table here and the wifi sometimes isn’t the most reliable, the atmosphere makes for a very productive homework day. All of their drinks are delicious and Heirloom is attached right beside it, so there is food available if you get hungry! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-294" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.32.48-PM-300x203.png" alt="" width="300" height="203" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.32.48-PM-300x203.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.32.48-PM-768x518.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.32.48-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-295" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.33.39-PM-300x223.png" alt="" width="300" height="223" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.33.39-PM-300x223.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.33.39-PM-768x570.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.33.39-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Bread Garden Market Cafe Personally, this is one of my favorites because it’s super cheap but the quality is high! There is also a variety of home-made like food available if you get hungry. I like to keep this option open for those days I know I’ll be studying for hours. I can get up at any moment, grab food if I get hungry or a coffee if I need more energy. There is always a table available if you beat the rush hours and the wifi password is posted on the walls if you ever do decide to check it out. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-296" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.35.10-PM-300x225.png" alt="" width="300" height="225" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.35.10-PM-300x225.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.35.10-PM-768x577.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.35.10-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-300" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Bread_Garden_3-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="333" height="222" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Bread_Garden_3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Bread_Garden_3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Bread_Garden_3.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px" /> The Encounter Cafe If I ever just want to catch up with my friends or take some time for myself, this is to place to go! It’s near downtown, a block away from Starbucks. The food there is delicious, and the coffee’s are even better. Most of their ingredients are fresh or locally grown. This place is cozy, clean, and crisp. Many people meet here to talk so there are no worries about “disrespecting” someone with your noise levels. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-291" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.29.33-PM-258x300.png" alt="" width="258" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.29.33-PM-258x300.png 258w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.29.33-PM.png 689w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 258px) 100vw, 258px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-293" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.30.14-PM-300x192.png" alt="" width="394" height="252" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.30.14-PM-300x192.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.30.14-PM-768x492.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-25-at-3.30.14-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 394px) 100vw, 394px" />
My Christmas Wishlist as a College Sophomore!
The holiday season is right in front of us which means the last few days of classes, finals, and eventually break! It’s so close yet so far away. As I take study breaks I started composing my Christmas wishlist, and I hope to bring some ideas if you’re stuck on what to ask Santa for … Continue reading My Christmas Wishlist as a College Sophomore!
The holiday season is right in front of us which means the last few days of classes, finals, and eventually break! It’s so close yet so far away. As I take study breaks I started composing my Christmas wishlist, and I hope to bring some ideas if you’re stuck on what to ask Santa for this year! Powerbeats Last year I asked for wireless Beats and I use them whenever I study or just relax in my room. However, I don’t like wearing them when I walk around campus or workout. I love the fact that they’re wireless, and this year the very top thing on my list is a smaller version of my wireless Beats – the Power Beats. They’re small, wireless, and super cute. They would come in handy so often, that at this point I consider it a need more than a want. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-306 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.46.48-AM-300x274.png" alt="" width="300" height="274" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.46.48-AM-300x274.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.46.48-AM-768x701.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.46.48-AM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Laptop Bag / Case Iowa weather is wildly unpredictable. The worst thing that 99% of college students experience is wet materials/notebooks/books after walking through the rain. Granted most backpacks are zipped, they still get the somewhat wet. A good laptop bag/case is high on my list since I can’t afford my laptop getting damaged due to rain. A brand I can always rely on for electronic protection is THULE. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-307" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.05-AM-300x213.png" alt="" width="300" height="213" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.05-AM-300x213.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.05-AM-768x545.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.05-AM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-308" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.14-AM-298x300.png" alt="" width="298" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.14-AM-298x300.png 298w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.14-AM-150x150.png 150w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.14-AM-768x774.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.49.14-AM.png 794w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 298px) 100vw, 298px" /> Hammock When the weather is being nice, however, nothing is better than relaxing or studying in a hammock on the Pentacrest. It’s also a fun activity you can do with multiple friends, so even if it’s just you who has one, three can enjoy sitting outside! A brand I love is ENO. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-309" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.55.22-AM-300x202.png" alt="" width="300" height="202" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.55.22-AM-300x202.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.55.22-AM-768x517.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.55.22-AM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-310" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/DoubleNest-StuffSack-combo-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/DoubleNest-StuffSack-combo-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/DoubleNest-StuffSack-combo-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/DoubleNest-StuffSack-combo.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> Nike Free’s Living off of campus means walking. . . a lot. To me, nothing is worse than having bad shoes that makes you more tired! A shoe brand I love is NIKE, and I know I can always be comfortable in their shoes. The current pair I have my eyes on are the Nike Free’s. They’re extremely light so it’ll feel as if I have nothing on. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-311 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.57.39-AM-300x236.png" alt="" width="300" height="236" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.57.39-AM-300x236.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-9.57.39-AM.png 630w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 23AndMe This is definitely a want more than a need, which is why it’s the very last thing on my wish list. 23AndMe is a DNA genetic testing kit that gives you a full report on both your ancestry, traits, and health. One of my roommates got it for her birthday this year, and seeing the report she got back was insanely cool. It shows you an interactive map of where your ancestors come from, a genetic health screening, and traits that you more than likely have (such as not being a morning person, disliking black coffee and why, etc). This would be a super cool gift that you can share with your family and it also teaches you a lot about yourself/your history. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-312 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-10.01.00-AM-300x179.png" alt="" width="300" height="179" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-10.01.00-AM-300x179.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-10.01.00-AM-768x459.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/12/Screen-Shot-2018-12-03-at-10.01.00-AM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> I hope you all had an amazing first semester and an even more relaxing winter break! Here we go, the last stretch. Xoxo, Lizbeth
Things To Do During Your Thanksgiving Break!
Thanksgiving Break is right around the corner and fortunately enough, Iowa gives a whole week off of classes. Since I live so far away from home that it’s not even worth going home for a simple weekend, I look forward to these breaks so much. I know the week at home will fly by but … Continue reading Things To Do During Your Thanksgiving Break!
Thanksgiving Break is right around the corner and fortunately enough, Iowa gives a whole week off of classes. Since I live so far away from home that it’s not even worth going home for a simple weekend, I look forward to these breaks so much. I know the week at home will fly by but I made a list of things I want to do at home to make the most of it. Here are some ideas that you can consider doing too for the week you get off! Eat a big home-cooked meal with your whole family As a sophomore, I no longer get the luxury of simply swiping my HawkID card and have access to hot meals. If I want to eat something good, I have to cook. It’s literally such a drag that most nights I end up eating cereal or eggs. I already sent my mamma a big list of meals I want her to make when I’m home – enjoy those home cooked meals as much as you can! Go on a simple outing with your siblings At some point it hits you that you don’t talk to your siblings everyday while you’re at college. You look back to all the days you swore you’d never miss them and laugh, because you miss them so much. Spend time with your siblings and catch up! Life is crazy and it keeps going even when you’re away. Soak up all the family time you can. Grab all the blankets laying around and spend a whole day watching movies You’ve been studying and doing homework for the past how many weeks? Enjoy your time off and just be lazy. You honestly probably deserve it. Although I know some people study and catch up on homework during breaks, don’t forget that it’s a break. You deserve time off. Catch up with your hometown friends at least one night I don’t talk to many people from home anymore, but for those that I still do, I know they’re genuine friends. They have stuck with me through high school and you can’t forget them! At one point they were with you everyday and if you maintain your friendships with some of them after graduating, I think that screams pure friendship. Go to a coffee shop and simply get organized for the upcoming crazy season of finals Towards the end of the week long break, I do recommend getting organized. By the time we come back, we only have two weeks before finals start. In this small time frame everyone scrambles to get organized that they aren’t left with much time to study. Simply get all your due dates in order, make a to-do list, and prepare your materials to study. Then when you’re back at school, all you have to do is start the process! I did this last year and felt so much weight off of my shoulders. I highly recommend this. A week will fly by and before you know it you’ll be back on your daily routine! Enjoy this time off and have a great break. Xoxo, Lizbeth
Midterm season is killing me – and it’s not even over for me yet. I’m taking a study break right now to write about a few of my favorite study spots on campus! The amount of time, commitment, and effort you have to put in during this time is straining. I’m not going to lie, … Continue reading My Favorite Studying Spots at Iowa
Midterm season is killing me – and it’s not even over for me yet. I’m taking a study break right now to write about a few of my favorite study spots on campus! The amount of time, commitment, and effort you have to put in during this time is straining. I’m not going to lie, I think it’s baloney that a majority of classes rely heavily on tests scores but it is what it is. All you can do it study study study and hope you rock all your tests. Midterm season is hard! If you feel yourself drowning take a step back and know that it’s all going to work out in the end. One bad test won’t determine your definite grade for that class. Take it from me, I’ve failed two tests my time here at Iowa. The best thing to get you started in your studying routine is to find your spot! Here are just a few of my favorite places to study around campus, and I hope you enjoy them just as much if you ever decide to check them out. The Java House Basically my second home – literally. If my friends can’t get a hold of me the first spot they check is always Java because I turn off my phone when I’m studying. The biggest distraction when studying is your phone. You get notifications, feel the urge to scroll through social media platforms, and honestly just mess around. The most important piece of advice I can give in this post is to turn off all forms of notifications. Even if it’s just for 30 minutes! A little chunk of pure focus is going to benefit you so much more than hours of studying while being distracted. Java has such a soothing atmosphere that it makes focusing easy. The playlists they play are always amazing and the staff is so friendly. The only downside with Java is that sometimes the wifi crashes and it’s always full! So many people love it. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-274 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1027-169x300.png" alt="" width="169" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1027-169x300.png 169w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1027.png 451w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 169px) 100vw, 169px" /> Art Building West – Second Floor One of my biggest things (I don’t know why) is to study somewhere that’s aesthetically pleasing to the eyes or has a nice view. For some reason, I cannot study somewhere unless it’s nice in that sense. Since I’ll be spending a lot of time there, I don’t like looking up and seeing old, dungy tables or books. The Art Building is one of the most beautiful buildings here at Iowa. The second floor is all open windows that looks out to the prettiest blue little pond and greenery. I highly recommend this spot. It’s always quiet and never busy. However, do check the hours before you head to the west side because they do close early sometimes! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-275 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1028-169x300.png" alt="" width="169" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1028-169x300.png 169w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_1028.png 451w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 169px) 100vw, 169px" /> The High Ground Cafe I just found this place and I love it! When I study, I like staying for a couple hours but sometimes I do hit walls. When I do, I love ordering a hand-crafted drink for energy and even encouragement (treat yourself). Last year I would only study at coffee shops and I ended up spending a crazy amount of money. If you don’t like spending money on a drink each day just to study then I recommend keeping coffee shops exclusively for those days you know you’re going to really grind. It’s a “special treat” for yourself. Not only that, but a little caffeine can never hurt anybody. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-280 alignright" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-300x197.png" alt="" width="300" height="197" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-300x197.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM-768x504.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.43-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-281 alignnone" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM-202x300.png" alt="" width="202" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM-202x300.png 202w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-27-at-5.04.29-PM.png 539w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 202px) 100vw, 202px" /> Music Building – Rooftop I hate being alone even if I know I’ll get more done but having friends with you to study is perfect because you can take mini breaks, chit chat, and then re-focus. I love studying at the rooftop of the music building during warm days. You’re free to talk and not whisper, enjoy the sun, and just get stuff done! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-276 alignleft" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/636124028779860972-IOW-1018-Voxman-04-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="232" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/636124028779860972-IOW-1018-Voxman-04-300x225.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/636124028779860972-IOW-1018-Voxman-04-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/636124028779860972-IOW-1018-Voxman-04.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 309px) 100vw, 309px" /> Iowa Memorial Union – Third Floor But there are times I just want to get away from everybody and do my own thing. It’s important to remember that sometimes studying alone is what you need to be the most productive you. I found that the third floor of the IMU has a few cozy, hidden spots where you can study alone and avoid any distractions. My favorite spot is directly in front of the very large windows on top of the main entrance of the IMU. I’m alone yet I can see everybody in the outside. A huge plus about this floor is that it has a printer – no need to go to the library to print. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-279 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/U-of-I-Memorial-Union-10-of-11-300x241.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="241" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/U-of-I-Memorial-Union-10-of-11-300x241.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/U-of-I-Memorial-Union-10-of-11.jpg 747w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
The University of Iowa is big! There are so many activities, clubs, and organizations you can be a part of. It might be tricky to choose just the right ones, but in the end you find the ones you love. As a freshman, I made sure to get involved not only to start building my … Continue reading Involvement on Campus – Sophomore Year!
The University of Iowa is big! There are so many activities, clubs, and organizations you can be a part of. It might be tricky to choose just the right ones, but in the end you find the ones you love. As a freshman, I made sure to get involved not only to start building my resume right away, but to find organizations that can both teach me and help me grow as an individual. Here are just a few organizations I’m a part of, & I hope you find yours too! The Odyssey Blogging In a far future, I hope to publish my own book on psychology and counseling services – and what better way than to start getting published as an undergrad in college? The Odyssey allows me to write whatever I want, in whichever way I want, and still be published. It not only helps me reflect on past experiences, but it allows me to grow as a writer and editor. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-269 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-1.59.38-PM-300x294.png" alt="" width="241" height="236" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-1.59.38-PM-300x294.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-1.59.38-PM.png 464w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 241px) 100vw, 241px" /> Iowa Student Psychology Association Through ISPA, I am able to participate on hands-on activities that will help me down the road in both my education and career. There are many research opportunities offered and workshops in resume and cover letter building. Honestly anything that can help me get a head start in the game is something that I highly encourage for any field! Her Campus Iowa This organization allows me to connect with the community around me and other strong females as well! It allows me to grow my circle of connections and learn how to market myself and my work. This club has brought me many friendships and fun, new experiences! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-265 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-2.01.37-PM-300x50.png" alt="" width="420" height="70" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-2.01.37-PM-300x50.png 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-2.01.37-PM-768x127.png 768w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-12-at-2.01.37-PM.png 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 420px) 100vw, 420px" /> UI Active Minds Mental health is important & something that will heavily impact me for the rest of my life. There is so much I have left to learn about mental health before I can dive into a career that focuses on it. It’s an amazing learning opportunity and allows me to make sure that I as well am in check with myself. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-263 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/bWlrb8p__400x400.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="180" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/bWlrb8p__400x400.jpg 180w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/bWlrb8p__400x400-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 180px) 100vw, 180px" /> Our Collective Brains This is a brand new club on campus that took off this year. Although it’s on its beginning stages, I can already tell it will be one of the most beneficial clubs I joined as an undergrad. Our Collective Brains is a club for first-generations or minority students majoring in psychology or neuroscience. Through this club I will be offered job shadowing opportunities, internship opportunities, graduate school application help and much much much more! Volunteering at the Crisis Center Although I haven’t officially began training for this, I’m excited to see what November holds in store for me. Through the Crisis Center, I will go through training on how to become a suicide hotline counselor. This not only gives me real-world experience in a field I want to someday be part of but allows me to be the plug of relief for those around me as well. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-268 aligncenter" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/crisis-center-of-johnson-county-500x500-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="200" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/crisis-center-of-johnson-county-500x500-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/crisis-center-of-johnson-county-500x500-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/crisis-center-of-johnson-county-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /> I highly encourage you to try out as many clubs and organizations as you can. If it interests you, check it out! The time commitment is simple, and if you ever can’t make a meeting or event then it’s completely okay. A lot of clubs and organizations understand that you are a student and will always encourage you to out academics first. Good luck on your future endeavors! Xoxo Lizbeth
As an incoming freshman, I thought living in the dorms would give me ultimate freedom. Wrong. Yes it’s a whole lot less strict than living with parents, but there are still so many rules. You have to be conscious about your neighbors, cordial to your roommate, and follow any rules your RA has along with the … Continue reading Home Sweet Home!
As an incoming freshman, I thought living in the dorms would give me ultimate freedom. Wrong. Yes it’s a whole lot less strict than living with parents, but there are still so many rules. You have to be conscious about your neighbors, cordial to your roommate, and follow any rules your RA has along with the hallway quiet hours. With freshman year out of the way, it was finally time to get the type of freedom I always craved. Apartment/house hunting is a tricky task. There’s a lot of things you have to take into consideration when choosing which place you’re going to call “home” next. Here’s a list of things both my roommates and I took into consideration when choosing our new home, and we hope it helps you guys too! Always look at price first If you’re a super broke college student who still heavily relies on their parent (guilty as charged) it’s super important to take into consideration the price tags that come with the units. I worked all summer long to save up money for rent, but it still won’t be enough to cover the whole year, which is when your parents step in. It’s important for them to agree with the budget and prices if they’re going to be helping you out – or even if you’re doing it on your own! You don’t want something that will be too much on you. . . . But don’t hold back to looking at “nicer” places At first, my roommates and I avoided looking at anything that was considerably nicer, solely for the purpose of saving money. However, if you get an extra roommate or two, the price per month drops for everyone which makes the “nicer” places affordable! Look at the location of the place If you’re anything like me, you probably won’t want to sign a lease somewhere off in Coralville but you also don’t want to sign a lease right on top of a busy restaurant/bar downtown. Location is essential. You have to make sure you’re in a place you’ll be comfortable coming to and from campus, and in a “safer” neighborhood. . . .But remember that the closer to campus, the higher the demand But if you are the type to enjoy living in a busy street with a high traffic volume, usually somewhere on top of a business downtown, those options are always available too! Obviously, the closer the apartment is to campus, the more money it’ll be. Be 100% about everyone you’re living with It kind of sucks that most people have to sign a lease right before Thanksgiving, considering the fact that it leaves you with a whole new semester to meet new people, make new friends, etc. However, even though you have to sign early on in the year, make sure you only sign with people you’re 100% about. They’re going to be your roommates for a whole school year – and if you aren’t 100%, then honestly just don’t sign. . . .But make sure everyone is also 100% on board Yes, we had a roommate ditch. It left everyone else in a sticky situation. So always make sure your roommates are on board as much as you are. If you sense a hint of doubt, make sure to get it resolved ASAP! Do not wait until last minute unless you want to deal with apartment lease issues. Make a checklist of stuff everyone is going to bring It’s always smart to get organized after signing a lease. Divvying up the stuff to bring to a new apartment can be tricky, but it is doable. An easy check list on Google Docs can do justice, and just have everyone put their name next to the things they can bring. . . .But remember to be fair with the whole group If one of the roommates agrees to get the couch, make sure you’re not making them get another big purchase. A roommate bringing a couch versus a roommate bringing silverware doesn’t equal up. You see? Make sure everyone is contributing the same amount! It’s all different with each roommate, so just make sure to communicate. With everything taken into consideration – my roommates and I chose to sign a lease with Apartments Downtown at one of the Villas! It’s located on Gilbert Street which is approximately a 10 minute walk from campus. We love our new home and can’t wait for the year ahead. If you’re in the process of looking for a new place to live, even if it’s not until next year, don’t be afraid to start the process as early as you can. Most people sign their lease for the upcoming school year as early as October! The living demand is high in Iowa City considering it’s such a big college campus. Be proactive, but don’t stress. In the end, it always works out! Good luck. Xoxo Lizbeth <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-250 alignleft" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9864-300x221.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="221" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9864-300x221.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9864.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-251 alignleft" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9863-300x218.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="218" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9863-300x218.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9863.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-245 alignright" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9869-300x219.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="219" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9869-300x219.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9869.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-246 alignright" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9868-300x218.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="218" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9868-300x218.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9868.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-247 alignleft" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9867-300x220.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="220" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9867-300x220.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9867.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-248 alignleft" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9866-300x220.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="220" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9866-300x220.jpg 300w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9866.jpg 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-249 alignright" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9865-230x300.jpg" alt="" width="230" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9865-230x300.jpg 230w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/IMG_9865.jpg 613w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 230px) 100vw, 230px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-253" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-01-at-7.56.07-PM-216x300.png" alt="" width="216" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-01-at-7.56.07-PM-216x300.png 216w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/10/Screen-Shot-2018-10-01-at-7.56.07-PM.png 576w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 216px) 100vw, 216px" />
Iowa City, I Missed You & Glad I Stuck With It!
If you would’ve asked me exactly a year ago if I was going to stay at Iowa, I would have looked at you (probably cried) and said I wanted to transfer to a college near home. I was home sick, confused about my major, and overwhelmed by the difference in both the community and size … Continue reading Iowa City, I Missed You & Glad I Stuck With It!
If you would’ve asked me exactly a year ago if I was going to stay at Iowa, I would have looked at you (probably cried) and said I wanted to transfer to a college near home. I was home sick, confused about my major, and overwhelmed by the difference in both the community and size of the city. BUT – I stuck it out. I stayed. And honestly, it was one of the best decisions I could’ve possibly made. Iowa City is my home! Freshman year is tricky. You’re excited to go to college, relocate, and practically begin a new life, but nobody tells you about all the “bleh” things that come with it. Nobody really talks about the jittery feeling walking into your first big lecture, the uneasy thoughts wondering if you’ll make a lot of friends or not, and the sadness that sometimes succumbs over as you think about how much you miss home. Nobody really talks about these things because it’s uncomfortable, it’s not a fun topic to think about. Freshman year is harder for some than others. Sometimes you wonder why everyone else seems like they’re having the time of their lives and you’re over here stressing out on the inside. Thing is, it’s all a little overwhelming and challenging at times – but you aren’t alone. There are probably more students that feel the exact same way you are than you think. Even now, as a sophomore, I went into a funk for three days because I didn’t feel right. Something felt off. . . but I soon realized that it was just the adjustment. As I left to go back home my freshman year, I cried on the way home. I didn’t want to say bye to the city I fell in love with. Yet, coming back this year I cried as I left home. I didn’t want to say bye to the little town that I grew up in, where my family and puppy were. It’s hard! It’s challenging! In the end, however, it all turns out to be okay. You’re going to readjust, and soon enough you’re going to fall in love with Iowa City the way I did. Just know that it can take two days, two weeks, even two months to adjust. You’re allowed to have as much time as you want to re-adjust. Don’t be worried if you feel a little behind from everyone else, because we’re all different. Just remember to take care of yourself first and foremost. Don’t stay in – go out. Try some caramel apples from Aspen Leaf. Get a personalized pizza from Blaze Pizza. Sip on a white mocha from Java House. Enjoy the artwork along the walls in downtown Iowa City. Go out, enjoy yourself, and explore! The world is big and there’s so much to see. Why not start with the city we all love? Xoxo, Lizbeth <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-235" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8891-217x300.jpg" alt="" width="217" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8891-217x300.jpg 217w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8891.jpg 579w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 217px) 100vw, 217px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-236 alignnone" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8892-216x300.jpg" alt="" width="216" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8892-216x300.jpg 216w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8892.jpg 576w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 216px) 100vw, 216px" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-237" src="http://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8896-218x300.jpg" alt="" width="218" height="300" srcset="https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8896-218x300.jpg 218w, https://blog.admissions.uiowa.edu/lizbeth/files/2018/09/IMG_8896.jpg 580w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 218px) 100vw, 218px" />