Last week, Sheila and I went back to our hometown in New York. It wasn't just a normal visit home, though--we actually crashed there after a long 5-hour drive so we could recharge the batteries and then wake up early the next morning and get on a train to New York City, where we did some filming for our senior seminar project.
As I've mentioned before, Sheila and I have partnered up to film a documentary about aging and ageism for our capstone. This is one of many things I love about MJD. The senior seminar allows us to investigate any topic of our choosing--literally anything--and produce our findings in either a book, website, or documentary format. Pretty much the only criteria is that we do something that hasn't been done before (or explore a past topic from a new angle), work with a partner if it's a documentary, and check in with regular homework assignments and presentations. Otherwise, anything goes.
Which is a huge undertaking, of course, and tons on tons of work. There's a lot at stake too--the project isn't just a grade, but something that can be put in our portfolio and on our resumes, and maybe even something that's published for people all around the world to see (as has happened with some in the past). I like the way we do our senior seminar in my major because honestly, I don't think I could deal with writing a 50-page paper all semester. Sheila and I did write 52 pages for our proposal, but we took just a few weeks to do it and used it as a way to organize our ideas and research. While it was an important part of the project, it wasn't the only part, so there wasn't as much riding on it as there is for people who do something like that for their entire capstone. Besides, our capstone takes us places other than the library!
So last Friday we went to NYC and interviewed Ashton Applewhite, a prominent anti-ageism activist and author, and I swear if I hadn't been on a schedule I might still be there because she was so interesting to talk to. She had so many important things to say and her passion really came through on film. I think her voice is going to add a much-needed angle to our film, as she really helped tie together loose ends on a lot of different themes. Sheila is an angel and already made some rough cuts of the interview, which can be found here.
We also visited the offices of DoSomething.org, a non-profit that seeks to get young people actively volunteering in their communities. Whey them for a film on aging and old people, then? One of their campaigns, called Grandparents Gone Wired (GGW), pairs up a teenage mentor with an older mentee who wants to use a new technology, whether it's Skype to keep in touch with faraway family and friends or an iPad so they can download cool apps or anything in between. We spoke with some of the campaign organizers, and they said it's really helped improve daily life for the older people participating as well as created come great multi-generational friendships--something that Ashton, as well as Sheila and I, really advocate for and something that we're hoping to show others with our documentary, so they're inspired to do it too.
We had a great day in the city, and we took the train back home to Poughkeepsie to rest up. Then, the next morning, we left for Woodstock for one last NY-based interview.
I came into contact with Alix Dobkin through a really interesting chain of events, and I'm so glad I found her and she was willing to do an interview with us. An esteemed folk singer, Dobkin was an integral part of the women's liberation movement of the 60s and 70s. An activist for most of her life, I found her by looking through names on a roster at the Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC) website. They're a group that works to combat "all the -isms," as Alix put it, and they've done a lot to raise consciousness about homophobia and particularly how it affects aging lesbian women. I'm lucky I've been taught to always do a Google search of the person I'm interviewing before I meet them. As I read about Alix's life and listened to her music that morning before heading out, I realized I had scored the interview of the century. It was incredible to hear some of her stories and she even performed a few songs for us! She also gave us each a copy of her memoir. I can't wait to read it!
So New York was a great success, and when Sheila and I returned to Vermont we presented our recent work to our classmates. They loved watching some of the footage and we got great feedback about where to go from here. On Friday we went to the Champlain Senior Center, which I've spent a lot of time at already both this and last semester, to film part of a Valentine's Day celebration. It was great to see so many familiar faces and a ton of new ones as well.
Coming up is another batch of interview subjects, and we have quite the array of people who have shown interest already. Right now we're working on confirming plans with a few women from the Burlington branch of OLOC, a local group similar to DoSomething's GGW campaign, and the Alzheimer's Association. We have a few exciting events coming up, too. Since we're taking a very holistic approach toward looking at every facet of aging and ageism, we have a lot of ground to cover. The more interviews to help with that, the better!
As you can see, we definitely have a lot going on to keep us busy. Our film is tentatively titled The Art of Aging, and if you want to keep up with our progress you can follow us on social media:
Facebook
Twitter
We also have a (VERY rough) website, where we'll be posting more soon, here.
Who knows where the rest of the semester will take us? Stay tuned!
Showing posts with label Around Town. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Around Town. Show all posts
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Friday, October 3, 2014
MJD On and Off Campus
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| At Saint Mike's we like to say nice things about each other! |
Last time I told you about my housemates and how we all have these really cool and different things going on. Cait has a major role in the Student Association and just started a blog for her Animal Rights class. Merrill is working hard with an off-campus internship. Alex just completed her LSATs and is now focused on different aspects of her business major and her role as our Blogging Coordinator. All four of us are constantly running around to get things done, but the best parts of our days are in the morning when we get ready together and at night when we can gather on the couch (or the bed in whoever's room we choose to crowd in for the evening) and discuss everything that happened since our woman-empowered dance party that took place in the bathroom that morning.
So, what have I been up to? What have I NOT been up to might be a shorter list!
I'm taking five classes this semester, although two of them are half-credit. Three of those courses are MJD (Media Studies, Journalism, and Digital Arts), but only one of them is actually required for my major. That's my Senior Seminar class, a half-credit course that helps me prep for my project next semester. Senior Sem is a little bit different in MJD than for other majors because we work on it all year, whereas most students complete their projects in one semester. This semester, we focus on doing research and planning out our projects. Next semester is all about the execution of the project and producing the book, website, or documentary that will be the final product of eight months of work. My friend Sheila and I are currently working on research for a documentary we want to make regarding ageism (and many things related to this broad subject, but I'll leave you waiting in anticipation for now).
My other two MJD courses are electives, and so far they're definitely taking up most of my work time. However, they're super cool, and I'm glad I chose to take them for a number of reasons--most importantly because they get me off campus and practicing what I've learned in the "real world," much like I did last semester in Morocco.
The first course is called Digital Film and TV ("Digi-film" for short). In this class, Professor Hyde teaches us about film and all of the techniques that go into making them. We're learning how to use Adobe Premiere to edit our own short films. Our first project has encouraged us to find someone off the SMC campus who has some sort of creative passion that helps them "escape" into another world. I had a little trouble finding a subject at first, until one day when I was out on Church Street watching all of the buskers. I came across a young woman playing an accordion and singing, and I was taken aback by the way she threw herself into the music. She'd stomp her feet, close her eyes when she belted out a high note, and throw her whole body into the accordion as it expanded and collapsed. I immediately knew that I wanted to make my documentary about Laci, and since that day I've been having a blast filming her in interviews and street performances. Not only do I now have some experience of what it's like to film in public, but I have a great new friend with an incredible talent!
The second course is my internship class, instructed by Allison Cleary. Though a full-credit course, it only meets once a week because the rest of our time is filled with working on-site at our internship locations. In class we get together and discuss how our work is going. We also learn how to properly represent ourselves on social media outlets like LinkedIn and touch up our resumes. We took a Myers-Briggs personality test with Ingrid Peterson from our Career Services office. I just had a mock interview with Ingrid the other day as an assignment for class as well, and I was really happy to get some feedback on where I can improve my interview skills (I've got to work on my handshake!). Overall, the class itself is a great way to collaborate with my MJD friends about how to carry ourselves in a professional setting and how to resolve issues that may arise during the learning process.
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| In class yesterday, we went out to the Word Garden and chose two words that describe our experiences so far. I chose "roam" because I've been enjoying walking to my internship site in the lovely weather we've been having. I've found that it's good to walk and let my mind wander before going to sit at a computer and focus hard on it for hours at a time. I also chose "enthusiasm" because while I may not do everything right, I do it with enthusiasm! |
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| Professor Cleary led the class in our Word Garden exercise. |
My site location is at the Emily Post Institute. I'm their Web Development and Marketing intern, and so far the experience has been great. I'm learning a ton about web maintenance and I have one huge web project that will take a good deal of the semester to complete. So far, I'm in a nice friendly environment where I can truly learn and grow from my supervisors and coworkers.
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| In another class exercise, we went around the room saying what we thought each others' strengths were. My classmates and professor had such nice things to say about me! |
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Projects, Ice Cream, #Accepted2SMCVT, and (as always) Shenanigans
Readers!
I am so sorry for my prolonged absence on this blog. So much has been happening, and I keep forgetting that the semester is almost over. Just a couple weeks...and then I'll be halfway through college! D: Time is moving way too fast!
First of all, I'd like to inform you all that I've FINALLY finished my Global Comm Media Mapping website, which I have been working on for most of the semester. Everyone in each class was assigned a different country, and we had to do research on the country itself and the media environment. The culmination of our research was turning everything we found into an interactive educational website. My country was Malaysia. It was so interesting, but definitely one of the most difficult projects I've ever had! I found it difficult to figure out exactly what out of all of the information I gathered should be featured in my website. I was up late (or...early...) working on it, but I didn't quite mind--I had some company as my friend Lauren and I scrambled to put on the final touches at 8am while eating a wonderfully delicious (if not totally nutritious) breakfast of Teddy Grahams and rainbow chip frosting.
Anyway, the whole class did a really awesome job on each of their countries, and we're all really happy to see the result! You can view all of our projects here: http://journalism.smcvt.edu/webcourses/HomePages/GC2-2013%20Media%20Mapping%20HOME.htm
I've been working on a lot of other stuff for school too, since everything is wrapping up now. I have papers to write for Philosophy of Science, Technology and the Environment and for Environmental Problems, two classes I'm taking for my ES minor. I also have a final project for Photojournalism, where I have to photograph an event, person or other feature story and create a layout. Just recently I went to an art exhibit in Burlington, where I saw the opening of "Ecologies" by SMC art professor Brian Collier. It was an incredible event and I learned a lot about seed dispersal and the rejuvenation of wasted green space. I took pictures there, so I'm considering using that for my final. (PS: isn't it pretty cool that I'm finding ways to combine my major and minor? I just recently presented a prezi about how MJD and ES relate and cross paths, and I'm definitely trying to practice what I preach).
However, don't think it's all just doom and gloom here around finals time! Not only have my projects been interesting and (dare I even SAY it?!) kind of fun, but I've made time to do other things too. For example, after we all handed in our Global Comm projects, I went downtown with a bunch of friends from my class (including SMC blogger Juliana and the blogosphere's newest member, Sheila). It happened to be Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's, so we all celebrated the end of our project with ice cream!
Yesterday was Accepted Students Day here at Saint Mike's, and I was lucky enough to meet some of the class of 2017. I can tell already that they're a lot of bright, interesting, and fun people! I just recently became a tour guide, so I've been shadowing other tours to learn the ropes. I went with my friend Alex yesterday, and we brought a few families around campus and told them some of our favorite things about SMC. I really enjoyed it--not only was it nice to meet new people, but sharing some of my personal stories reminded me just how lucky I am to be here and just how much I love it!
By the way, if you couldn't make it to Accepted Students Day either this weekend or next weekend, you can follow along with the fun by searching the #Accepted2SMCVT hashtag on Twitter and Instagram.
Other than that, I've had some fun spending my weekends with friends. We went into Burlington for dinner last night, and we're hoping for the weather to clear up soon so we can go watch a sunset on Lake Champlain. Until then, we'll have to settle for playing some laughter-inducing games like Quelf and Cards Against Humanity.
I hope you're all doing well and that this post was worth the wait. I'll try not to be away for that long again...but remember that I'm always in touch! Contact me @LaurenKopchik, lkopchik@mail.smcvt.edu, or Lauren Kopchik on Facebook and Formspring.
Best,
Lauren
I am so sorry for my prolonged absence on this blog. So much has been happening, and I keep forgetting that the semester is almost over. Just a couple weeks...and then I'll be halfway through college! D: Time is moving way too fast!
First of all, I'd like to inform you all that I've FINALLY finished my Global Comm Media Mapping website, which I have been working on for most of the semester. Everyone in each class was assigned a different country, and we had to do research on the country itself and the media environment. The culmination of our research was turning everything we found into an interactive educational website. My country was Malaysia. It was so interesting, but definitely one of the most difficult projects I've ever had! I found it difficult to figure out exactly what out of all of the information I gathered should be featured in my website. I was up late (or...early...) working on it, but I didn't quite mind--I had some company as my friend Lauren and I scrambled to put on the final touches at 8am while eating a wonderfully delicious (if not totally nutritious) breakfast of Teddy Grahams and rainbow chip frosting.
Anyway, the whole class did a really awesome job on each of their countries, and we're all really happy to see the result! You can view all of our projects here: http://journalism.smcvt.edu/webcourses/HomePages/GC2-2013%20Media%20Mapping%20HOME.htm
I've been working on a lot of other stuff for school too, since everything is wrapping up now. I have papers to write for Philosophy of Science, Technology and the Environment and for Environmental Problems, two classes I'm taking for my ES minor. I also have a final project for Photojournalism, where I have to photograph an event, person or other feature story and create a layout. Just recently I went to an art exhibit in Burlington, where I saw the opening of "Ecologies" by SMC art professor Brian Collier. It was an incredible event and I learned a lot about seed dispersal and the rejuvenation of wasted green space. I took pictures there, so I'm considering using that for my final. (PS: isn't it pretty cool that I'm finding ways to combine my major and minor? I just recently presented a prezi about how MJD and ES relate and cross paths, and I'm definitely trying to practice what I preach).
However, don't think it's all just doom and gloom here around finals time! Not only have my projects been interesting and (dare I even SAY it?!) kind of fun, but I've made time to do other things too. For example, after we all handed in our Global Comm projects, I went downtown with a bunch of friends from my class (including SMC blogger Juliana and the blogosphere's newest member, Sheila). It happened to be Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry's, so we all celebrated the end of our project with ice cream!
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| I answered a trivia question correctly: Ben and Jerry originally wanted to make bagels, but it was too expensive! I was given this "front of the line" pass, but I wanted to stay with my group so I ended up giving it to a friend I saw waiting in line later on. |
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| Here I am with some of my favorite gals on Free Cone Day! L to R: Liz, Mikala, Juliana, myself, Sheila and Cara. |
Yesterday was Accepted Students Day here at Saint Mike's, and I was lucky enough to meet some of the class of 2017. I can tell already that they're a lot of bright, interesting, and fun people! I just recently became a tour guide, so I've been shadowing other tours to learn the ropes. I went with my friend Alex yesterday, and we brought a few families around campus and told them some of our favorite things about SMC. I really enjoyed it--not only was it nice to meet new people, but sharing some of my personal stories reminded me just how lucky I am to be here and just how much I love it!
By the way, if you couldn't make it to Accepted Students Day either this weekend or next weekend, you can follow along with the fun by searching the #Accepted2SMCVT hashtag on Twitter and Instagram.
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| My official Tour Guide t-shirt...Lauren Likes Saint Mike's! |
Other than that, I've had some fun spending my weekends with friends. We went into Burlington for dinner last night, and we're hoping for the weather to clear up soon so we can go watch a sunset on Lake Champlain. Until then, we'll have to settle for playing some laughter-inducing games like Quelf and Cards Against Humanity.
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| Can you picture it? That's what I thought...you're welcome. |
I hope you're all doing well and that this post was worth the wait. I'll try not to be away for that long again...but remember that I'm always in touch! Contact me @LaurenKopchik, lkopchik@mail.smcvt.edu, or Lauren Kopchik on Facebook and Formspring.
Best,
Lauren
Monday, March 4, 2013
Tech Fasting, Mardi Gras and Exciting News
This week has been a little funky so far, as I have felt a bit out of touch with people because I don't have my phone. I'm participating in a "tech fast" for my philosophy class. It was optional, but I chose to do it for extra credit to see how difficult it would be. I've done some tech fasts before, and I know from experience that it's hard at first but you tend to get used to it, and even grow to like it!
Obviously I'm not doing a complete fast from technology, since I am blogging to you wonderful readers, but I have been trying to cut back on screen time. So normally I try to get everything that involves a computer done at one time during the day, and then I don't log on again until I absolutely have to. Maybe this is why I'm finding it easier this time, because the main thing I'm giving up is my phone but I am still allowing myself computer access.
To tell you the truth though, I do enjoy tech fasts. I've done one almost every semester since coming to Saint Mike's, and it's actually very refreshing to not have to worry about constantly being connected with others. It sort of gives you an excuse for not being available, and for taking the time to do what you want to do, when you want to do it.
That being said, there are some downsides. I definitely feel out of touch with my family and friends. I can't talk to my family at all without my phone, and I have a hard time finding my friends when I'm not with them. It goes the opposite way too--Sheila messaged me on Facebook nine times on Friday hoping I'd check at some point. She'll probably get angry at me telling you that, but I find it hilarious. She was looking for me all day and had no idea where I was. Well, I had spent most of the afternoon on North Campus...in my own dorm building. Imagine that! And no one could find me!
So, what have I been up to with all of my screen-free time? Well, I had a total nerd moment in the library when I saw this book called "The Hunger Games and Philosophy: A Critique of Pure Treason". I love this kind of stuff, and I think the Hunger Games series is an excellent social commentary on modern society. So let the reading begin!
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| "May the odds be ever in your favor!" |
Anyway, it was interesting going through the weekend without my phone--especially since Saturday was Burlington's big Mardi Gras celebration. Every year, there's a huge parade with floats and music and free beads and candy. People dress up in crazy costumes and paint their faces. It's like a giant carnival! The buses are packed running back and forth all day, and it feels like everyone in the entire city flocks to Main Street for the event. I volunteered for crowd control at Mardis Gras last year, which was fun because I got to stand right in the street and see the whole parade, and all of the volunteers were given free tee shirts and gifts for working the event. I also got to pass out beads and candy to the kids watching the parade, which was pretty adorable.
This year, I went with Sheila and Liz just to watch the parade and take pictures. It was pretty awesome, although my pictures didn't come out as well because I was in the middle of the crowd this time. But the energy was infectious, and everyone was having a great time--even when it started snowing! After the parade, we went to Sky Burger (our usual restaurant, if we're not in a Ken's Pizza or Fu Da mood) and then we spent some time at the mall before returning to campus. It was a fun day, even though it was so crazy and crowded, and then Sunday was just a quiet homework day.
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| It was pretty crazy! |
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| The special of the day at Skyburger was the falafel burger...yum! And yes, I am one of those people who takes pictures of her food. You're welcome. |
And now, the "exciting news" part of my post. Remember when I mentioned applying for internships, and how I was looking at one with Admissions over the summer? Well, I was lucky enough to have been offered the job! I was so excited when I heard the news, because it was the first summer internship that I had looked into and the one that was the highest priority for me. I just thought it would be so awesome to work with such a cool group of people, and I know I can learn a lot from them. Plus, I must admit that I'm pretty excited to be spending a whole summer with people who share the same zany enthusiasm for Saint Mike's. :) And, to top it all off, Vermont is amazing in the summertime, and we don't get enough warm weather during the school year!
So, it's not completely official yet because I still have to go through the workstudy application process, but as soon as all of the right paperwork is done I'll be all set with my summer plans. Keep your fingers crossed!
I hope everyone is having a fabulous start to their week. As always, contact me with any questions! lkopchik@mail.smcvt.edu
Happy Monday,
Lauren
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
The Best Concert Venue (Higher Ground)
Now, most of you know that I am a HUGE fan of concerts. Something about seeing your favorite artists performing live, with a group of people who love the music just as much as you do...well, it never gets old! There's so much energy at concerts that you can't get from just listening through your earbuds.
I've been to a lot of concerts--at least one (usually more) every year since the 6th grade. So, I've seen a few venues. You might imagine that my favorite place for a concert would be in some ridiculously massive stadium. The crowd is a part of that energy, so the more the merrier, right?
Truth is, I actually appreciate smaller venues. As awesome as it is to see thousands of people all gathering for the same music and to be a part of something that big, a more intimate setting is nice because you can be a lot closer to the performers--and you have a much better chance of actually meeting them! Every time I've gone to Higher Ground, a popular venue in South Burlington, I've been able to talk to a band member or see the show from the front row! On Sunday, I went to see Eric Hutchinson at Higher Ground with (you guessed it!) my concert buddy Sheila.
For those of you who may not know him, Eric Hutchinson is a pop-rock singer/songwriter with a natural ability to lift your spirits. I had first heard of him a few years ago when I randomly walked into Target, picked up the first 10-dollar CD I saw, and bought it. His album Sounds Like This was full of upbeat music that just put a smile on my face! When Sheila and I first met in high school, we initially bonded over our interest in his music and we went to a concert together. Since then, we have been to quite a few concerts, but we knew we had to go to this one. We're now in college together, we still love Eric, and he was coming here! I think that when she first told me, I actually screamed (I know...typical fangirl).
The show was incredible! He performed songs from his older albums as well as his newest one, Moving Up Living Down, which he wrote after moving to New York. It was really cool to hear all of his stories about the songwriting process. He was really funny too!
After the performance, we got to meet him and tell him our story. He loved the fact that we first became friends because of him. He enjoyed the fact that his music is "bringing people together."
The opener for the show was phenomenal as well. I had never heard of Jessie Payo before going to the show, but as soon as she began her first song I knew she would be amazing! She's such a talented singer and musician, and she was hilarious. She had a great stage presence and really got the crowd excited for the show. I enjoyed all of her songs, and she even did a cover of "Pumped Up Kicks" by Foster the People. We talked to her before Eric Hutchinson came on, and she told us that it was her first time in Burlington and she really liked it here.
So my last Higher Ground experience was tons of fun. I've been there a few other times too, and I have to say, it's my favorite place to see concerts! I love all of the people who perform there--sometimes it's hard to choose! But the other awesome thing is that it's not very expensive, either. I have never bought a Higher Ground ticket for more than $25. I went to my first Higher Ground concert last November for Jon McLaughlin and Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers. We also went to see Fun. last year, which was awesome because it was the first show on their tour!
We've actually been debating whether or not to go see Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers again, because they're coming back to Higher Ground this Thursday. However, it's a school night, and we're actually going home this weekend to see Maggie's play. We didn't want to cram too much into one weekend, but maybe they'll come back again sometime! :)
Here's a video of Jessie Payo singing "Take it On", one of our favorite songs of hers.
I hope you're all having a great week. I'm off to go listen to some good music!
Lauren
I've been to a lot of concerts--at least one (usually more) every year since the 6th grade. So, I've seen a few venues. You might imagine that my favorite place for a concert would be in some ridiculously massive stadium. The crowd is a part of that energy, so the more the merrier, right?
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| Going to the Bell Centre for Jason Mraz was surreal...but smaller shows have their benefits! |
Truth is, I actually appreciate smaller venues. As awesome as it is to see thousands of people all gathering for the same music and to be a part of something that big, a more intimate setting is nice because you can be a lot closer to the performers--and you have a much better chance of actually meeting them! Every time I've gone to Higher Ground, a popular venue in South Burlington, I've been able to talk to a band member or see the show from the front row! On Sunday, I went to see Eric Hutchinson at Higher Ground with (you guessed it!) my concert buddy Sheila.
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| Sheila and I in tenth grade at an Eric Hutchinson concert...some things never change! |
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| We had been sitting in the front row! |
After the performance, we got to meet him and tell him our story. He loved the fact that we first became friends because of him. He enjoyed the fact that his music is "bringing people together."
The opener for the show was phenomenal as well. I had never heard of Jessie Payo before going to the show, but as soon as she began her first song I knew she would be amazing! She's such a talented singer and musician, and she was hilarious. She had a great stage presence and really got the crowd excited for the show. I enjoyed all of her songs, and she even did a cover of "Pumped Up Kicks" by Foster the People. We talked to her before Eric Hutchinson came on, and she told us that it was her first time in Burlington and she really liked it here.
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| Jessie Payo was a sweetheart, and really stylish too! |
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| Jessie Payo joined Eric Hutchinson for his song "Back to Where I Was". |
So my last Higher Ground experience was tons of fun. I've been there a few other times too, and I have to say, it's my favorite place to see concerts! I love all of the people who perform there--sometimes it's hard to choose! But the other awesome thing is that it's not very expensive, either. I have never bought a Higher Ground ticket for more than $25. I went to my first Higher Ground concert last November for Jon McLaughlin and Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers. We also went to see Fun. last year, which was awesome because it was the first show on their tour!
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| Here I am with Sheila (far right), her sister Maggie (far left), and Jon McLaughlin. I remember that he smelled good even though he was sweaty! |
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| Jack Antonoff made our night when he took a picture with us. We're huge Fun. fans! |
We've actually been debating whether or not to go see Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers again, because they're coming back to Higher Ground this Thursday. However, it's a school night, and we're actually going home this weekend to see Maggie's play. We didn't want to cram too much into one weekend, but maybe they'll come back again sometime! :)
Here's a video of Jessie Payo singing "Take it On", one of our favorite songs of hers.
I hope you're all having a great week. I'm off to go listen to some good music!
Lauren
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Fall Break and a Pumpkin Party
Hello everyone!
Last Friday I told you that the upcoming weekend was a long one, because we had Monday and Tuesday off. Last year during Fall Break, I went home to visit my family. This time, I stayed here and they came to visit me! My parents have obviously been here before, but they brought my aunt and uncle, who had never seen Saint Mike's. It was so much fun showing them around!
The weather was a bit cold and rainy when they first arrived, but it cleared up pretty quickly and it was beautiful on Saturday! We took advantage of the nice day and went on a drive up to the Champlain Islands in northern Vermont. At one point, we were only about a mile away from the Canadian border! We also took the bridge over to New York.
After the ride, we came back into Burlington, where we went to Church Street. I insisted on getting kettle corn...it's one of my favorite snacks to have while I'm downtown. I could live on that stuff!
We tried to cram as much as we could into the days they were there, so it was pretty hectic but lots of fun! Everyone had a great time, and I was so happy to see my family after seven weeks without them!
This weekend has been jam-packed with fun stuff, too! Yesterday, my friends and I decided to have ourselves a "fall party". Some of us went apple and pumpkin picking that morning. It was a beautiful day, so we took a drive out to Shelburne Orchards. We had a great time picking apples, and they were delicious!
Once we picked up pumpkins, we returned to campus and began making apple and pumpkin pie. Other friends contributed cupcakes, cookies, and pretty much any dessert you can think of...there was a LOT of food!
We also brought our pumpkins outside and carved them to make jack-o-lanterns. It brought me right back to my childhood! I know some people get freaked out by "gutting" the pumpkin because it feels so slimy in your hands, but I have to admit that's one of my favorite things about pumpkin carving! It turns out that most of my friends are the same way. It got very messy very fast!
Our party was definitely an awesome way to spend the day. The fun will continue later on when Green Up, an environmental club here at SMC, hosts their annual Harvest Fest. There's all kinds of food and tons of fun activities. But for now, it's time to study!
Enjoy the rest of the weekend, everyone!
Lauren
Last Friday I told you that the upcoming weekend was a long one, because we had Monday and Tuesday off. Last year during Fall Break, I went home to visit my family. This time, I stayed here and they came to visit me! My parents have obviously been here before, but they brought my aunt and uncle, who had never seen Saint Mike's. It was so much fun showing them around!
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| Dad, Mom, Aunt Tracey and I hanging out on Main Campus. |
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| My mom left her mark in the Word Garden! |
The weather was a bit cold and rainy when they first arrived, but it cleared up pretty quickly and it was beautiful on Saturday! We took advantage of the nice day and went on a drive up to the Champlain Islands in northern Vermont. At one point, we were only about a mile away from the Canadian border! We also took the bridge over to New York.
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| Hmm, which way to go? |
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| A lovely view of Lake Champlain. |
After the ride, we came back into Burlington, where we went to Church Street. I insisted on getting kettle corn...it's one of my favorite snacks to have while I'm downtown. I could live on that stuff!
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| Mmmm...kettle corn! |
This weekend has been jam-packed with fun stuff, too! Yesterday, my friends and I decided to have ourselves a "fall party". Some of us went apple and pumpkin picking that morning. It was a beautiful day, so we took a drive out to Shelburne Orchards. We had a great time picking apples, and they were delicious!
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| Cara found a good one! |
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| Greta likes liberty apples! |
Once we picked up pumpkins, we returned to campus and began making apple and pumpkin pie. Other friends contributed cupcakes, cookies, and pretty much any dessert you can think of...there was a LOT of food!
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| Nobody knew where to start! |
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| Cait and Emma mixed the apple pie filling. |
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| Emma, Alex, and Merrill made delicious cupcakes! (Click on the linked names to see their blogs!) |
We also brought our pumpkins outside and carved them to make jack-o-lanterns. It brought me right back to my childhood! I know some people get freaked out by "gutting" the pumpkin because it feels so slimy in your hands, but I have to admit that's one of my favorite things about pumpkin carving! It turns out that most of my friends are the same way. It got very messy very fast!
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| Getting started! |
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| Liz with a "pumpkin beard"! She separated all of the seeds so that we could roast them :) |
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| And here are the finished products! Maya and I carved the one in the middle with hearts for eyes. |
Our party was definitely an awesome way to spend the day. The fun will continue later on when Green Up, an environmental club here at SMC, hosts their annual Harvest Fest. There's all kinds of food and tons of fun activities. But for now, it's time to study!
Enjoy the rest of the weekend, everyone!
Lauren
Monday, September 10, 2012
Going to the Fair
Last weekend was tons of fun. The Champlain Valley Fair comes to the Expo (just down the road from SMC) every summer, and we get back to school just in time to go!
Normally, the fair is an orientation activity. Freshman students receive a ticket for the same day and they can all go together as a class. Unfortunately, due to Hurricane Irene last year, most of my class didn't get a chance to attend. So, this year, my friends and I made it a must. We went to the petting zoo, rode the ferris wheel, and ate a LOT of greasy-fried fair food, none of which I regretted...forget the calories, fried dough at a fair is necessary!
If you're ever in Essex Junction around the time of the Champlain Valley Fair, I definitely recommend going. It's an awesome way to spend a Friday night!
Normally, the fair is an orientation activity. Freshman students receive a ticket for the same day and they can all go together as a class. Unfortunately, due to Hurricane Irene last year, most of my class didn't get a chance to attend. So, this year, my friends and I made it a must. We went to the petting zoo, rode the ferris wheel, and ate a LOT of greasy-fried fair food, none of which I regretted...forget the calories, fried dough at a fair is necessary!
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| My favorite girls and me, ready for a night at the fair! |
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| The ferris wheel |
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| A cool view from the ferris wheel! |
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| Animals always love Tanya! This one kept nudging her to keep petting! |
If you're ever in Essex Junction around the time of the Champlain Valley Fair, I definitely recommend going. It's an awesome way to spend a Friday night!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Birthdays at SMC
Hello, everyone! Sorry to keep you all waiting for an entire week--as I said before, it was a pretty crazy one! I'll tell you more about finals and the last days of classes in my vlog tonight, so stay posted.
First, though, I wanted to discuss something really fun...birthdays! Friday was a really important day for my friends Tanya and Sarah, as it was both of their 19th birthdays. We went to eat at Olive Garden and then saw The Avengers. AMAZING movie! I highly recommend it. It was a nice girls' night out, and I think they both had a really good time.
This has not been our only celebration this year, though! I have a HUGE group of friends, and as I've said before, we're truly a family. Shawn's birthday was April 29th, and he was so surprised when he arrived at his room to find everyone waiting for him with a "happy birthday" banner, cake, and presents.
We also had Cait's birthday on the 20th...I know, TONS of birthdays in a matter of weeks! Our friend Alex got everyone together for a huge surprise party in Eddie's Lounge (you can read more about it here at Jessica's blog...she came to celebrate too!).
Even last semester, we knew we had wanted to do something special for Maya's birthday. We like to make fun of her because she's a big Twilight fan, but the truth is we all had a good time bringing her to see the latest movie when it came out in November! We also bought her lunch and a birthday dessert at Bueno Y Sano and My Little Cupcake, two delicious places conveniently located near the Roxy theater downtown.
Sheila and I have our birthdays in the same week, mine is January 24th and hers is the 29th. Her dad and sister came up to visit, and they took us out to dinner at Texas Roadhouse. We also went to Lake Champlain for a beautiful winter view.
My 19th birthday was one that I will never forget. It was on a Tuesday, so I figured I wouldn't do anything special--everyone is extremely busy during the week with classes, homework, extracurriculars, and events. I remember that I was happy, though, because the blood drive was that day. I know that sounds really odd, but I was looking forward to it because I could never donate before. The last time I tried, they told me to come back when I was 19. And there we were, having a blood drive on my 19th birthday! So, I considered it a sign. I was really happy once I did it, because even though it was a little scary, I knew that it was for a good cause. Knowing that my blood can help someone in need, maybe even help save a life, was an awesome birthday gift.
Anyway, I didn't expect to do much else on my birthday. But, knowing my SMC family, they would have never let that happen! I remember sitting with Sheila in the first floor lounge of Joyce, working on some homework. I was facing the window, and when I looked up I saw the reflections of a bunch of people walking in with a plate of cupcakes and some presents. My friends snuck up on me and threw me a surprise party...nobody had ever done this for me before!
I love that we've done something cool for every single birthday in our group. No matter who you meet at Saint Mike's, the friends you make will always find a way to make you feel amazing. The funniest part is when people burst out singing "happy birthday" in Alliot! The giant birthday cake we get every month isn't too bad either. :)
Peace,
Lauren
First, though, I wanted to discuss something really fun...birthdays! Friday was a really important day for my friends Tanya and Sarah, as it was both of their 19th birthdays. We went to eat at Olive Garden and then saw The Avengers. AMAZING movie! I highly recommend it. It was a nice girls' night out, and I think they both had a really good time.
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| Beautiful birthday girls! |
We also had Cait's birthday on the 20th...I know, TONS of birthdays in a matter of weeks! Our friend Alex got everyone together for a huge surprise party in Eddie's Lounge (you can read more about it here at Jessica's blog...she came to celebrate too!).
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| Cait and Nate being goofy at her party...she had no idea we had anything planned! |
Even last semester, we knew we had wanted to do something special for Maya's birthday. We like to make fun of her because she's a big Twilight fan, but the truth is we all had a good time bringing her to see the latest movie when it came out in November! We also bought her lunch and a birthday dessert at Bueno Y Sano and My Little Cupcake, two delicious places conveniently located near the Roxy theater downtown.
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| We also wrapped her door like a present and everyone signed it! |
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| Here she is blowing out the candles! |
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| Maya, me, and Tanya at what now feels like only the beginning of an amazing friendship! |
Sheila and I have our birthdays in the same week, mine is January 24th and hers is the 29th. Her dad and sister came up to visit, and they took us out to dinner at Texas Roadhouse. We also went to Lake Champlain for a beautiful winter view.
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| We didn't stay for very long though...it was freezing! |
Anyway, I didn't expect to do much else on my birthday. But, knowing my SMC family, they would have never let that happen! I remember sitting with Sheila in the first floor lounge of Joyce, working on some homework. I was facing the window, and when I looked up I saw the reflections of a bunch of people walking in with a plate of cupcakes and some presents. My friends snuck up on me and threw me a surprise party...nobody had ever done this for me before!
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| They were delicious...and Maya gave me the coolest hat! |
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| My friends threw me one of the most memorable birthdays ever! |
I love that we've done something cool for every single birthday in our group. No matter who you meet at Saint Mike's, the friends you make will always find a way to make you feel amazing. The funniest part is when people burst out singing "happy birthday" in Alliot! The giant birthday cake we get every month isn't too bad either. :)
Peace,
Lauren
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Family Weekend and a Spontaneous Monday
Good evening everyone!
As finals are approaching and the year is quickly wrapping up, it becomes increasingly difficult to stop and appreciate the smaller moments. Between papers, projects, and exams, students are trying to stay on top of their work.
However, it's important during times like these to take a few minutes to relax, and I was lucky enough to have my family come visit me during Parents Weekend. My parents and sister, as well as my aunt, uncle, and younger cousins, all joined me for a fun weekend at SMC with the Dean's Reception as the main event.
The Dean's Reception is an event held to recognize the academic achievements of students who made the Dean's List during the fall semester. The Dean and President Neuhauser speak, as well as a few honorary students, and there are light refreshments. Attending the event was also really interesting because various seniors were set up around the gymnasium to present the work they did for their Capstone projects, so the night also served as an academic symposium.
That was just one thing that was going on over Family Weekend. There were a lot of other events, both on and off campus, including student concerts, theatrical presentations, and a bowling night at our local bowling alley. I showed my family around campus, and we did tons of stuff around the Burlington area. I was surprised (and, as an avid reader, quite pleased!) that my little cousins' favorite part of the trip seemed to be the Word Garden right here on campus. They just got a kick out of it!
Like I said, we also did a lot of things off-campus, like visit the Lake Champlain Chocolate Factory and a few local markets and eateries. My Aunt Cathy loved Church Street--it was her first time visiting!
I was so sad on Sunday to see my family leave--my room is now half-empty because I packed away a bunch of stuff for them to bring home that I know I won't need in my last few weeks. Between the empty room and the sadness of my weekend being over, I felt like a wreck on Monday! It was also a bit strange because I hadn't seen my friends for most of the weekend, so yesterday afternoon I visited my friends Shawn and Danny over in Joyce Hall--I knew everyone would be there because that's the usual hangout spot! Everyone there must have been in the same strange mood as me, because suddenly Cait suggested a trip downtown to Ben and Jerry's for a Vermonster and we were all jumping at the chance!
A Vermonster is the ultimate Ben and Jerry's challenge...20 scoops of ice cream, piles of whipped cream, tons of toppings, all inside one giant bucket. I was in a group with 5 other friends: Cait, Danny, Shawn, Tanya and Maya. It took all six of us over half an hour to finish eating it!
As finals are approaching and the year is quickly wrapping up, it becomes increasingly difficult to stop and appreciate the smaller moments. Between papers, projects, and exams, students are trying to stay on top of their work.
However, it's important during times like these to take a few minutes to relax, and I was lucky enough to have my family come visit me during Parents Weekend. My parents and sister, as well as my aunt, uncle, and younger cousins, all joined me for a fun weekend at SMC with the Dean's Reception as the main event.
The Dean's Reception is an event held to recognize the academic achievements of students who made the Dean's List during the fall semester. The Dean and President Neuhauser speak, as well as a few honorary students, and there are light refreshments. Attending the event was also really interesting because various seniors were set up around the gymnasium to present the work they did for their Capstone projects, so the night also served as an academic symposium.
That was just one thing that was going on over Family Weekend. There were a lot of other events, both on and off campus, including student concerts, theatrical presentations, and a bowling night at our local bowling alley. I showed my family around campus, and we did tons of stuff around the Burlington area. I was surprised (and, as an avid reader, quite pleased!) that my little cousins' favorite part of the trip seemed to be the Word Garden right here on campus. They just got a kick out of it!
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| My youngest cousin, Giancarlo, writes on the chalkboard at the Word Garden. He also enjoyed playing with the word rocks and being able to physically create sentences. Such a good learning tool, for all ages--young and old, the Word Garden is a hit! |
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| Some inspirational words found at the Garden, above and below. |
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| It says, "Row the boat on the lake of enthusiasm." |
Like I said, we also did a lot of things off-campus, like visit the Lake Champlain Chocolate Factory and a few local markets and eateries. My Aunt Cathy loved Church Street--it was her first time visiting!
I was so sad on Sunday to see my family leave--my room is now half-empty because I packed away a bunch of stuff for them to bring home that I know I won't need in my last few weeks. Between the empty room and the sadness of my weekend being over, I felt like a wreck on Monday! It was also a bit strange because I hadn't seen my friends for most of the weekend, so yesterday afternoon I visited my friends Shawn and Danny over in Joyce Hall--I knew everyone would be there because that's the usual hangout spot! Everyone there must have been in the same strange mood as me, because suddenly Cait suggested a trip downtown to Ben and Jerry's for a Vermonster and we were all jumping at the chance!
A Vermonster is the ultimate Ben and Jerry's challenge...20 scoops of ice cream, piles of whipped cream, tons of toppings, all inside one giant bucket. I was in a group with 5 other friends: Cait, Danny, Shawn, Tanya and Maya. It took all six of us over half an hour to finish eating it!
Those are some before and after photos. Everyone said that Shawn and I ate the most...I think they were right. Neither of us wanted dinner that night!
After we finished the challenge, we hung around on Church Street for a while. We had a great time!
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| Me, Tanya, Cait and Shawn sitting on the cow at Ben and Jerry's. Cows are Tanya's favorite animal! |
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| Shawn, Danny, Cait, Tanya and Maya sitting on the rocks on Church Street--too full after all that ice cream! |
We never really leave campus on a school night, so this was a truly special occasion. I felt bad when I got back because a few other friends missed out...but that just means we'll need to do the Vermonster again some other day. :)
So, that was my lovely weekend and awesome Monday. Since time is running down to the wire, I won't be as present for the next few days due to studying. However, I look forward to making a post this weekend! I think I'm going to make a post about housing. :) Until next time!
Peace,
Ren
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