A Playlist That Explains My College Experience!

Posted on February 6, 2026

Hello Everyone,

I love music! I mean, I started as a music major, so it honestly, it makes sense. Anyway, I thought it would be fun to make a playlist of 10 songs that explain my college experience. Let’s get those dancing shoes on, warm up those vocals, and get this show started. JK! But let’s get into it!

Someone In the Crowd, La La Land: The first week of freshman year is HECTIC. In a beautiful way, but its fast paced and can be fun, but also slightly scary. The slow moments as well as the fast moments remind me of this song. You meet so many people, and they might not be your forever friends, but in the first week, you all want to give everyone friendship bands and hold on to this spontaneity.

Baby Steps, Melina KB: Ok, Freshmen me was OBSESSED with this song, plus in college, new relationships are kind of fun, and they feel like you’re dipping your toes into a new world, any past caution melts, this song just feels so College first year crush!

The That Got Away, MUNA: This song is such an angsty college girl, and I was here for it in my second semester. I had gone through some friendships, relationships, etc. This song was something of a fever dream, the way I had this on repeat in 2024.

End Of An Era, Dua Lipa: Your constantantly are changing, which means every end of a semester you feel like a new page is being turned. This upbeat song feels like a change for once is good. Even the new friends and a dazzling new relationship can feel like a new world.

Espresso, Sabrina Carpenter: If you are not on some kind of caffein then congrats, but most of us count on Espresso to get us through the days, so this song is kind of self-explanatory. Plus its fun, she makes awesome pop songs!

I Can Do It With A Broken Heart, Taylor Swift: College is fun and feels like a million sparkles, but some days you might feel like you’re barely holding it together. I think this song definitely reminds me of the times I didn’t want to go to class or get up, but I did and smiled through the rough days. But honestly, I am so glad I did!!

Tough Luck, Laufey: This song is more personal, but this song got me through a lot of harder days last semester. While I think it’s a breakup song, for me, it was listened to when I was annoyed with myself or my busy schedule.

Opalite, Taylor Swift: College shimmers and glistens, but it can feel like you never can get out of that rut sometimes. But when you do, and you’re out getting coffee with friends or going shopping or even decorating your dorm room, it can feel like so much fun. This song truly captures how life can feel like you’re stuck, but one moment can make it better.

She Used To Be Mine, Chloe Adams: I know this one sounds sad, and I get it, but I think it’s also beautiful. There is something nostalgic about changing. You will spend days looking in the mirror and be scared at how much you have changed. You might even feel a little confused, I sure do. But know that’s ok and be proud that means you’re growing and you will make it.

It Is What Is, Jenna Raine: Let’s end on a fun note! College is scary sometimes, but it’s fun, magical, and a place to be you. I love how upbeat and silly this song is. I constantly feel alone in my feelings, but I have started to learn that actually most are normal, and everyone feels them!

Anyway, I hope this is fun, and if you haven’t heard these songs, go give them a listen. I hope it helps you through college. It sure helped me. Have a great day!! Keep vibing

Cheers,
Rose

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Little Rituals That Keep Me Grounded During the Semester!

Posted on February 3, 2026

Hello,

I have so much fun in college, but I am also always busy, so here are the go-to rituals that help me get through the rough days.

Post Test/Paper Treat: After a big test and big paper, I always get myself a treat, whether it’s a coffee from my favorite place or if it is a beauty product from Target. I believe that after a big project or test, you deserve a reward for your hard work. It’s good to be proud of getting through something.

Early Morning Routine: I have to do my skincare and makeup every day of classes. I always feel so relaxed when I do my routine. It also prepares me for a long day.

Cleaning my bag daily: You would be so surprised to see how messy your bag gets after classes when you’re in a rush, so I always end the day making sure all garbage and all pens are in the correct place. It makes my life so much easier.

Checking my planner daily: I know that sounds slightly extreme. But I like to make sure my life is planned. With so much uncertainty in my life, I love making sure my days are planned accordingly.

Cleaning my surroundings: If it’s my dorm or my study area, I make sure everything is organized and clean. I hate being unorganized, so anywhere I go, I clean up. I need my area to look good, so I feel good.

Dress nice for classes: I get it, you want to wear your pj pants to class, and that’s fine, but studies show that if you get into presentable clothes (I recommend a matching sweat set, even that looks good), you will feel so much more prepared.

I think having these little rituals really helps me through the semester. I recommend finding little things that make you feel more grounded during the busy weeks

Cheers
Rose

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What I Thought College Was vs What It Actually Is

Posted on February 3, 2026

Hello, my readers,

When you look online, you see everyone in college looking smart, and every room is set up with pretty bedspreads, and you talk politely to your friends. But they don’t tell you how many myths there are online. Freshman self, you will be shocked. Now this is not supposed to scare you. I am going to break down some things about college that I thought would happen that didn’t, and things that I didn’t expect. Let’s dive into this.

Everyone moves past High School:  Ok, I was told everyone has this insane transformation over the summer after high school graduation. But no one actually magically changes. What happens is, yes, there is a change, but you actually get to college, and there is so much going on that no one is going to magically feel like they are brand new. I would say give yourself and everyone else grace. That doesn’t mean to let people cross your boundaries, but it does mean some people might feel a little more touchy, and some people will feel fine.

You feel most homesick in the first semester: Sorry to tell you, but I honestly don’t think most people feel fully homesick until much further into the first two years of college. I didn’t want to be home until the second semester of college, and honestly, I still had homesickness once in a while, my second year. I am not saying this to scare you. Actually, it’s pretty normal, and Iowa has amazing resources to help you through any of those slumps.

College will make you amazing at studying: Some things will come natrually especially in your major, but every class requires different study techniques. I also am not great at tests, so it took me forever to figure out how to study them. Also, every professor teaches diffrently so every test and paper will have different requirements. My best tip is to be ok to make mistakes. My rule of thumb is that every first test and paper of every class is a learning experience. Don’t beat yourself up over a lower grade. Usually, you can always ask a professor in there office hours what you did wrong and how you can do better. But also know every test you get through is a win.

You will meet all your life-long friends in college: Yes, you will!!!  Don’t worry, I have made so many amazing friendships through college BUT you will go through friendships a few times. That is NORMAL, it is not a problem with either person, what it is is you are becoming more yourself. You will find what you are ok with and what you can’t take. We all have different needs and boundries so understand that sometimes even after 4 months of thinking you will become bestfriends, things can change instantly. That’s ok, you will move on, and so will the other person.

The Freshmen 15 will happen: While yes, gaining weight is a potential “side effect” of college, everyone’s body is super different, so don’t freak out if you gain or lose some weight. Not only does Iowa have resources if you’re worried about either, but honestly, your body fluctuates constantly. My best tip for you is to take care of your body, as you need to. Don’t let others tell you what is good or not. We also have lots of healthy options in our dining halls with plenty of carbs, protein, fruits, veggies, etc., plus multiple of our dorms have gyms, also the Rec. center on weekdays during the school year opens at 5 am and closes at midnight. But again, stress and long study nights can make your body overwhelmed. But don’t worry, again, you know what you need.

You can skip a week of classes, and the professors don’t care: Actually, your professors are very dedicated to the work they do; they want you there, and there are still attendance policies. Now, if you’re sick, physically or mentally, or have personal family stuff, just email them to let them know. Professors are not scary, communicate let them know if your stuggling. They usually want to work things through with you. So talk to them and go to class. I promise, not only will it help your grade, but you will do so much better in your classes.

College is amazing, truly. You will make life-long friends, go on those coffee dates, join clubs, and find who YOU are. All of that is true, but also understand now with all the social media platforms and everyone saying what they want, you get to choose how your college experiences define you. Last, don’t feel like you’re doing it wrong. College is your time to shine, be you without your family telling you what to do. It is truly an amazing experience. Don’t worry, you will do amazing. I hope this helps you, and I can’t wait to see you on campus.

Cheers,
Rose

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A “Normal” College Day As a Hawkeye

Posted on January 29, 2026

Hello Everyone, 

I hope your day is going well. But today I am going to give you a little look into a busy day in college. Everyone’s schedule is different, but here is what a normal Thursday for me here at uiowa looks like for me. 

6:30-7:50: I get up early on school days not only to prepare for classes, but my skin and makeup routine takes time, so I like to be up early to give myself time to get through that routine.

8:00-8:30: I take this time to get to campus and grab a caffeine drink. My top places are dunkin, Hyper, Midnight Coffee, or kindred. I also walk to class and get ready to start the day 

8:30-10:20: on Thursdays, I have an 8:30 am Digital Science lab. Today (1/29), we worked on using Google Maps to describe our lives.

10:20-11:00 I walk to my next class and recollect my thoughts. I like to put music on and just look at my planner. I also have a class right after this break, so I get prepped for that. 

11:00-12:15: This is my second class of the day, which is Literature and Culture of the Americas. We are reading a book right now and discussing the theme, and we look into the connections to the theme of the class.

12:15-2:30: Lunch time, Study, and more. I do a lot of the homework I need to do at this time. I hate having homework on the weekends, so I like to do it over the bigger breaks in my schedule I have. 

2:30-3:20: I have university choir. We sing for 50 minutes 4 days a week.

3:30-4:45 My last class of the day and week. It is my Craft and Method class. It’s another discussion class. 

4:45-8:00 post-class, I usually go home, eat dinner, and get ready to work a late-night shift. I don’t have classes on Friday, so I work Thursday nights. 

8:00-2:00 work of my evening job. I only work weekend nights for this job because you still need to rest for those big tests. But I like getting to get a new pace every weekend when I work.

Friday, early morning.

2:00am-3:00am: get ready for bed! For a weekend. Plus again, my nighttime skincare routine is extensive.

Anyway, even though I have a long day, I truly enjoy my busy schedule; I always feel so accomplished. Like I am someone who hates sitting still, so with a busy schedule, I actually feel my best and most confident.

Cheers,
Rose

 

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Semester 6 as a Hawkeye

Posted on January 29, 2026January 29, 2026

Hello Everyone, 

Semester 2 of junior year means I am starting my 6th semester of college. Some days it doesn’t feel like it’s real. When you get as far into college as I have, it feels so good but also crazy. College is hard, that’s the truth, but it is so rewarding. Anyway, I wanted to give my best tips and tricks for college itself. I have talked about study tips before, but that’s not all that college is. It is so much more. 

Mental  Health: This is probably the most important, in my opinion. I know it sounds simple, but college is super draining (that is normal and ok). I work two jobs, have classes, and also have a social life. All those are important to me, BUT when I am so mentally unwell, I can’t focus. I believe you need to give your mind time to just shut off. Which means I don’t scroll on my phone, do homework, and I do something that’s not something to think hard about. I like to watch TV or read a book, which is not something for class. It definitely helps me, especially just to relax and not overthink. Also University of Iowa Student Health has a selection of resources for mental health, including therapists and group therapy.

Physical Health: College is a lot of repetition. Somedays you have 2 classes, others 4, and in that busy repetition, you forget to eat, workout and even stand up during your study time. You HAVE to take care of yourself. College brings a ton of new people together, which means when flu season comes around, you need to stay healthy. I find it super easy to get even a 30-minute walk in because of how easy it is to walk on campus, so if you’re not the biggest gym person, that’s ok. Iowa City is an amazing place to walk. Even in these cold January months, I love to walk around the ped-mall, going into shops. 

Studying and Not Studying: College is full of studying, but you have to take a break. I have always said 45 on 15 off, and that’s great, but also don’t study every day of every week and weekend. That is not me saying to study. But take time to stop and do something fun. I love getting coffee at the library or one of Iowa City’s many coffee shops. I also believe in rewarding yourself. So if you spent all week studying for a midterm and took the test after that test, spend that day or night giving yourself something that makes you happy. Some things that I like to do are get my favorite takeout, go online shopping, and go to Target. If you don’t want to be out, spend the night writing in your journal, watching your favorite show, do an art project. Truly anything that makes you feel good. 

Morning and Night Routine: I know every morning I spend getting my hair up, doing makeup, and skin care, I feel much more confident. Also, when I spend my night doing my skin care, showering, and putting my pjs on, I feel so ready and relaxed for bed. I truly believe everyone has to stick to a routine. College classes can be constantly throwing new things at you, and while that’s normal, having a routine helps you stay grounded.

Working: I have two jobs, and as a college student, I think it’s a great experience for college. I love my jobs and I get to take a little break from classes and focus on doing something that helps balance all the craziness and is something I enjoy. The university has a bunch of jobs it offers to students during the semesters, as well as some jobs that it offers over breaks. 

Last. . . Social Life: Everyone needs connections and people to relax with. I love studying or going shopping with my friends. Having people to trust and talk about things that stress you out, or just to socialize. College will introduce you to new people from so many different places, and you will find people you have so much commen. I also recommend joining clubs and groups that you like. We have so many clubs, from Dance Marathon, CAB, Dance Club, and so much more. Be open to trying new things.

6 semesters in, and it amazes me how fast it has gone, but also how much I have learned. Iowa is home to so many during their 4 years of college, including me. Have a wonderful day and GO HAWKS.

Cheers,
Rose

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Hawkeyes in the Snow

Posted on December 3, 2025

Hello Everyone,

I am so so ready for this winter! Also, just in time for the holiday season, it SNOWED!!!!! Boy, it is beautiful. I grew up most of my life in Oregon with rain 9 out of 12 months of the year. So when I moved to Iowa in 2020 and saw the first snow of the winter season, I was shocked. It is just outright gorgeous. I love watching it and spending time in the snow with my friends!

But this year’s first snow was crazy because I had to get back to Iowa City on the Friday after Thanksgiving because we were to get over 10 inches of snow. But that didn’t stop me from enjoying it. Not only did I stay up late Friday night and watch it fall, but on Saturday, my boyfriend and I went downtown in Iowa City and looked at the spectacle of flurries and took a bunch of photos.

Also, now that we are all back into the schedule of classes after fall break, I just feel like the snow is giving everyone a little more holiday cheer. Which means on Monday, December 1st, we put up Christmas (or holiday) decor to ring in the new season. I also feel as if everyone is just excited to celebrate the last month of 2025 with their loved ones. Anyway, Hawkeyes are always ready for a snow day! Sending Holiday

Love to you all.

CHEERS,
Rose

 

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Thanksgiving As A Hawkeye!

Posted on December 3, 2025

HELLO,

HAPPY HOLIDAYS (I think I can say that now)!

Thanksgiving break this year was a perfect mix of nostalgia, adventure, and a whole lot of Oregon charm. Even though I’m a Hawkeye now, Oregon still feels like a second home — full of memories, familiar places, and all my favorite spots to wander.

We kicked off the weekend in Eugene, Oregon, where game day energy was absolutely buzzing after the Ducks’ win. My Dad and I went to Sabai Thai, a place I’ve been going to since I was little. The owners even recognized my dad and me.

One of those small but special moments that make the world feel a little more connected. The food was delicious as always, and it felt so grounding to be in a place that’s been part of my life for so long.

Sunday was for Christmas shopping, and honestly, it was everything I needed. We stopped at the Holiday Market, 5th Street Market, and Gateway Mall — three of my absolute favorite places in Eugene. I wandered through stalls of handmade gifts, sampled treats, and soaked up the festive vibe. We definitely left with bags full of early Christmas cheer.

On Monday, we headed out to Newport Beach, where the crisp 52-degree coastal air made everything feel fresh and peaceful. We walked along the water, bundled up and loving every minute of it. The highlight? Spotting three sea lions swimming near the shore, honestly, they were the cutest part of the whole trip.

Tuesday might have been my favorite. We went to Magpie Coffee Shop in Eugene, where I got a Dubai chocolate coffee that was basically happiness in a cup. I also sent a postcard to my boyfriend, and then wandered through Smith Family Bookstore, one of my longtime favorites. I couldn’t resist and ended up getting two new romance books (obviously).

After that, we packed up and headed home just in time for Thanksgiving dinner with my family, grandparents, uncle, sister, and parents. It was cozy, delicious, and exactly the way Thanksgiving should feel.

I ended the break back in Iowa City, reunited with my cat, my boyfriend, and the brand-new snowfall that made everything feel a little magical. It was the perfect ending to a perfect break — a little bit of home, a little bit of adventure, and a lot to be grateful for. Can’t wait to finish off this semester strong!!!

Cheers,
Rose

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November as A Hawkeye

Posted on November 21, 2025

Hello Everyone,

I am so ready for the holiday season, BUT let’s talk about November as a Hawkeye!!!

It’s probably the hardest month for any college student, not only have we all been at school for three months plus, and we have been in the full swing of Midterms since October, and you’re just tired. But I have all the tips and tricks for you, incoming students and current students. So let’s keep our energy up with some of these tricks.

Something to stay hydrated!!! WATER! Or a drink that has GPT hydrating qualities is super important to keep your body feeling alive. Water helps you stay in a good mindset. If you are hydrated, it makes a huge difference. Also, reusable water bottles make life easier, and the colors are great, so bring that (I will say I love to look at Target’s selection, I probably have too many water bottles at this point).

Next, you need to eat healthy. In college, it is so easy to go a full day without eating because you have classes, work, and friends. So plan out your meals throughout the day!!! I like to even see if my friends want to go to our on-campus dining halls and mini shops/cafes. My go-to lunch spot is Food For Thought Cafe in the library. It’s by all my classes and that way I don’t have to sit in a dining hall and study, but instead I can study in the bustle, but also the quiet of the library. (They serve Starbucks refreshers, which are my favorite)

TAKE A BREAK! Please, if you have been studying for over an hour, take a 15-minute break. (I always say 45 on and 15 off) meaning you study with no distractions, then after 45 minutes I take a 15-minute break, stand up, give my cat some love, if I am in my room, or I scroll my Instagram or read or write if I am in the library!!

Next, take nights off! I get that you want to pass classes, we all do, but you can be on all the time, take a night to watch TV, and just rot with some unhealthy snacks, and because it’s cold, make a hot herbal tea or hot coco and just relax and if you dont have a TV I like to use my computer or iPad.

Last but NOT least SLEEP!!! There are so many studies that show you retain information better when you sleep. So on week days try to plan accordingly if you have a 8 am class go to bed by 10 so you can get up at 7 or so to get to class if you have a 10:30 you can stay up till midnight but honestly its good to try to keep a healthy normal sleep schedule it is a life saver when you out of the blue have to stay up late one night (because your finishing your paper you forgot about!!!).

November might be hard, but college is fun. You’re in a world full of people who help you learn who you are. Also, the university has great resources to help you study, keep your mental health in check, and we have so many support systems in place for you to succeed. You will get through these hard months, and when break rolls around, you will be so proud of yourself!!!

Sending love and take care of yourself!!!

Cheers,
Rose Kelly

 

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Hawkeyes Love Papers (My Best Tips For College Papers!)

Posted on October 20, 2025

Hello,

Welcome back to my to my blog. One thing about being a creative writting major is PAPERS!!! Also, the University of Iowa takes pride in their students writing, so most gen eds have some sort writing component because we are one of the top writing schools in the country! Anyway, that means writing is intertwined into everything I do. I am going to talk about some of my favorite tricks that help me write literally any paper I have.

First, set your setting. Either go to a coffee shop, a study room, your dorm bed or desk etc. . . make sure you can focus and not get distracted. I love to go to coffee shops for creative papers, I sit at my desk for research ones, and I love to write my outlines in the library.

Next, you need to hand write an outline. I have a notebook where I do all of my outlines. I usally write them in the library while I play SVU law and order on my iPad through my headphones in the background. (Why that show? No clue, it just works.)

Next, when you finally start your first draft, write. No editing yet, just get to the requirements. If thats 500 words or 1200, get the basic ideas of your pre-written outline on the page. You can fix the mistakes later.

After the first draft, TAKE A BREAK! You will get nowhere with your paper if you go straight into editing after intially writing it. Go out with friends to get coffee, go watch a show. Do something else not paper related.

After a day, re-read your paper, (I do it in my room out loud) and edit the first time. I tend to play something through my speaker and complete that first edit. I repeat this step 2-4 times depending on what it is for and how long it is.

Last, before you turn it in, fine tune everything, check the requierments, and turn it in!!!

Remeber, it’s okay to make mistakes. My first college paper was hard and I did not do as well as I wanted, but now I can have 10-15 in a semster and do well on them. After you complete every paper, celebrate with something as smiple as a cookie or watching TV.

Talk later!

Cheers,
Rose

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Hawkeye Moments

Posted on October 20, 2025October 20, 2025

Hello,

I am back and it is the middle of October. I love fall in this city and I think I have said that a hundred times! College is probably the hardest thing I have done at this point of my life, and I wouldn’t change my choice to be a hawkeye. But I wanted to talk about some ways I stay sane in thse busy months in college!

First, TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH!!! Not only do we have great resources here and counselors for students, but make sure you are taking care of your mental stability as much as physical stability. Take study breaks, go out shopping, or take a nap. Do stuff that doesn’t stress you out and that makes you happy!

Another thing, plan weekly social nights. My friends and I like to watch TV shows so we invite our friendgroup and watch an episode weekly! You could do a book club or a craft night, whatever gives a fun and simple social night but no study involved.

I also love a deep clean or a reset day. I always fully clean my room on Sundays to make sure I start the week off on the right foot. I just love how I can put music or a Netflix show and orginize my room. Its almost therapeutic for me!!

Lastly, get out. If that means going to a coffee shop or taking a bus to the mall or even participating in clubs and/or school events do. If you spend all your time studying and shutting yourself away, you will end up burning yourself out. So, take time to breath.

Anyway, those are some of my tips on how to stay sane. I love college and I think everyone should go. It’s a magical time to find yourself, but know it’s not easy all the time, but once you find that balance, it is 100% better

Cheers,
Rose

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