How I Juggle College & Being a Blogger

College in itself can be a very stressful and busy time in itself. When you’re in college, it is hard enough to manage life in itself. With the social activities, extracurriculars, academics, and part time jobs, it is HARD. When you add a blog and becoming an influencer onto it all, who knows what else will get done?! Well, today, as an influencer and college student (soon-to-be-graduate!!!), I am here to tell you how I balance being a college student and a blogger.

Use a Planning System

Whether it be by paper and pen or digitally or a mix of the two, be sure to establish a planning system to aide in your blog planning. For me, I use spreadsheets to plan out my blog posts for the week, whether it be giveaways, collaborations, posts, stories, etc. and be sure to write down when to post them in my digital planning system. That way, I can successfully keep track of it all. Like college classes, your blog is a business that must be treated as such – it has deadlines, needs consistency in order to stay afloat, and a constant mode of flowing with the trends within our social media world today. What you put into your platform is what you will get out of it. The same goes for your college classes.

Plan, prepare, execute, and do it all over again, accordingly.

Have a Calendar

As an influencer, my calendar is my forever best friend. I can know where I have to be and when. I plan out my photoshoots for content, days that I am going to post them, and much more. Like you do for your college classes, plan out when you will focus on your blogging and execute.

Find Your Maximum Productivity Level for Academics & Influencing

To me, a maximum productivity level is the level at which you are most productive at something. For me, my maximum productivity level is different when I am focusing on academics than it is for influencing and blogging. In fact, I am more productive at my academic work in the afternoon. As for influencing and blogging, I am most productive after 10pm-early morning hours. Knowing that my maximum productivity levels are at different times for the different tasks that I have as a student and as a blogger, I can use that to my advantage and schedule when I work on what accordingly.

Make Sacrifices

When I chose to start my blog, I knew that I would have to make sacrifices. For me, that was spending more time on academics than I was on my blog. While I do have high ambitions for growing my platform here on The Pink Chickadee, in order to keep up with my classes, I have not been able to reach them yet. I plan to when I graduate, though. Yet, I have made the sacrifice to spend more time on academics that I have on my blog since starting it so that I can acquire my degree. At the same time, having a blog takes a lot of time, no matter how much time you choose to dedicate to it. You will most likely have to spend some late nights crafting posts and creating new content, especially with the robust social and academic world known as college. However, I have found it all to be so worth it in the end.

College Comes First

Above all else, your college career comes first. Although blogging is super fun and a great way to meet likeminded folks, it is not as important as your college career in retrospect. If you have a big test coming up, then your time should be dedicated towards that rather than curating a brand-new blog post or photo for your Instagram feed. The same goes for papers, assignments, etc. At the end of the day, your college career and GPA will get you your degree NOT your blog!

I most definitely do not regret starting my platform while in college. I have put many hours, blood, sweat, and tears into my blog all while being a college student. Although I have had many highs and lows since starting The Pink Chickadee, it has all been oh so worth it in the end. If you are ever considering starting a blog while in college, do it and do not look back. It will be the best decision that you ever made!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Apartment Or Live At Home?! My Big’s Share Their Post-Graduation Housing Decisions!

Should I stay or should I go?! When it comes time to select your housing arrangements post-college graduation, it can be difficult. There are a ton of factors that go into deciding where you want to live after your college years and it all can be very tedious. My Big Sis’s Stephanie and Callie graduated in 2019. Both have very different post-graduation housing arrangements that are unique to where they both are at now. Stephanie and Callie have played a meaningful role in my college experience at Meredith and will continue to do so in my post-graduation life. So, Stephanie and Callie are both speaking on their own experiences with post-graduation housing arrangements and why they live where they live.

Stephanie

Tell me a bit about yourself!

Hi! I’m Stephanie Semaan and I enjoy watching reality TV shows, listening to music, and trying new cooking recipes.

Where did you go to college and what did you study?

I’m a Meredith College Alumna ‘19 (go angels!) and I studied Psychology and Communication. And, yes I can read y’alls mind… definitely joking!

What have you been up to since graduation?

After graduating I started my journey to receive my Master’s in School Counseling, and started my job with Academic Advising at the college-level. While I did attend Meredith in Raleigh, NC I decided to move back to my home state post graduation. A hobby that I started up again recently is playing the flute.

What made you choose to live at home post-graduation?

I was fortunate to have a few different options of applying to grad school or searching for a job or both in either NC or VA. I truly enjoyed my time in NC, but coming from a close-knit family I wanted to live closer to my family. And the licensure to be a School Counselor is state specific so since I ultimately saw myself moving home eventually that did play a role.

Pros of Living at Home Post-Graduation:

  1. Family! From game nights to movie nights, we’re all close by… literally.
  2. Multiple Hands! Unlike living on my own, my family and I cook together, and all pitch in together with around the home things like laundry and grocery shopping.
  3. Saving money! Living at home allows me personally to be able to save money for the future.

Cons of Living at Home Post-Graduation:

  1. When I first moved home, I kept operating like I was living on my own, but I learned I did not have to do everything on my own. So that was an adjustment.
  2. While I have a whole home to spread out all my things and fun decoration, it is not just your own space.
  3. And sometimes staying out late whether studying or hanging out with friends, you could feel like you keep the house up or wake the house up when you come home.

Callie

Tell me a bit about yourself!

I’m Callie Crawford, I love all things that involve Taylor Swift, the beach and Mexican food!

Where did you go to college and what did you study?

Meredith College class of 2019 major in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management.

What have you been up to since graduation?

I have worked as an HR Specialist since May 2019. I have achieved my SHRM-CP certification in 2020. I’ve gotten the chance to improve my cooking skills. I have continued gardening and taking care of my plant babies. I had the chance to travel to California and Tennessee for the first time.

What made you choose to live on your own post-graduation?

I was fortunate to get a job in Raleigh after graduation. I wanted to stay in the city so I would have a shorter commute to work. I also fell in love with Raleigh and wanted to have my own space in the city.

Pros of Living on your Own Post-Graduation:

  1. You get your own space! You can decorate however you want.
  2. You also have independence to do whatever you want, like in college but this time no homework or exams.
  3. You also get to figure out your post-grad self. You have the freedom to take up new hobbies or to choose how you spend your free time. It is a great time to decide who you want your adult self to look like.

Cons of Living on your Own Post-Graduation:

  1. Security is a big thing. You now have to invest in alarm systems or other methods to keep you safe because you are on your own.
  2. Money is another disadvantage. Rent takes up the majority of your pay check so that is an upsetting week.
  3. Even if you have a roommate, you can still get lonely. In college, there’s always someone but when you move everyone goes their own way. You have to be more intentional about spending time with friends and family.

With the Class of 2021’s graduation looming upon us, housing arrangements can be pretty tricky. Stephanie and Callie have provided some great insights that I hope will help you when choosing where you want to live.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Washington, DC Move Q&A

Recently, I made an announcement regarding my post-graduation plans – I will be making the move all the way up to the Washington, DC area. On my social media, I asked my fellow followers to share questions that they have about my big move, which I will be answering in today’s blog post. Read along to find out more about my next adventure!!!

Where exactly are you looking to live?

I am planning to live in the Northern Virginia area near a Metro station (train station to the Washington, DC subway). Although I have not solidified a place yet, I will probably be living near my family who also reside in Northern Virginia.

What kinds of jobs are you searching for?

When it comes to the job search, I want to use my Mathematics degree and each of my minors – Data Science, Website Development, and Statistics – in some way or another. So, I will be searching for a job within the Data Science/Analytics realm. Additionally, I am still considering going to get a graduate degree to further my interest in Data Science/Analytics.

How do you do Public Transportation? Metro, train, etc.?

In the Washington, DC area, there are a variety of ways to get around. When it comes to the city of Washington, DC, I plan to use the Metro (which as mentioned above, is the subway/transit system of the city). There is also a widely-used bus system within the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC area that is connected to the Metro transit and takes locals to the Metro who are not in walking distance from a station. At the same time, I will also rely on my car (once I get my license – it’s been a process y’all!!!!) to go places, too.

What is your favorite place back home and are that you’re excited to be at again or for the first time?

So, I am going to answer this question in two parts: my favorite place back at home and a place I am really looking forward to going to for the first time when I move.

My favorite place back at home (in Northern Virginia) would probably be Old Town Alexandria – this town is super adorable and has so much history to it. I am super excited to explore this sweet place even more.

As for a place I am looking forward to checking out, I would have to say many of the restaurants in the city of Washington, DC along with the vineyards west of the city out in the so-called “countryside” of Virginia.

What are you most excited for about your move?!

Honestly, I am most excited to be starting out somewhere fresh and new. I have always been a big city girl, ever since I was little. Raleigh is a really nice city, but it is a bit too small for me, so I am excited to be somewhere starting out that will have a plethora of jobs available and many others starting out there since graduating from college, too. Personally, I have always wanted to start out in the Washington, DC area since I started college. So, I am really happy that I will be able to do what I have so desired to do for about 4 years now.

What is something that you will miss when you leave Raleigh?

I have fallen in love with the kindness and warm hospitality of Raleigh and all across the South. Since touring Meredith as a Senior in high school, I most definitely identified more with the clothing and styles of the South rather than up North. This may sound crazy, but I will really miss the malls and shopping experiences of the South, along with its friendly and warm, welcoming community.

What are some ways that you hope to connect with others in the Washington, DC area?

While I have not solidified just yet how I am going to go about engaging and getting involved in my future community, I most definitely know that I am interested in a variety of differing channels of involvement. As a Lilly Pulitzer lover, I know that I want to do something to connect with my Lilly Pulitzer lover community within the Washington, DC area – women of all ages and backgrounds. My cousins love to sail in nearby Annapolis, Maryland, so I would like to get together and sail with them more often. At the same time, I am considering joining some organizations, but I have not exactly decided as to which I may join. Stay tuned 🙂

While I have 6 weeks left of my undergraduate journey at Meredith, I am optimistically looking towards the future. Similarly, I am soaking in all of my final moments at Meredith. Here’s to Washington, DC super soon!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Two Months of my Final Semester During Covid-19

It is hard to believe that my final semester has kicked off in the middle of a pandemic. On the flip side, there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is coming a lot quicker than any of us have ever imagined. The sadness of loosing a lot of what I had envisioned my Senior year of college would look like is hard, but knowing that my first months of post-graduate life will look a lot more normal than I would have ever anticipated makes it easier.

Meredith College is filled with several social events and traditions. It has been really weird to not have an extremely filled social calendar with numerous events, outings, and fundraisers. Covid-19 has taken over all of our lives, especially college life, but only for some time.

About a month ago, I was really struggling with the fact that Covid-19 was taking over all of our lives and the remainder of my college experience. It was in these days that it felt like Covid-19 was NEVER-ENDING, despite the vaccine rollout. On the contrary, this past month has allowed for a ton of changes in our world and across the United States with more and more people receiving the vaccine. Hearing the stories of others struggling with the impacts of Covid-19 made those times so much harder, too.

Hope is near and even my college experience and campus policymakers as it pertains to the coronavirus have made that clear. The other day, I learned that my college is having an in-person graduation. It will be held outdoors and on-campus. While I do not know much details yet besides its weekend and location, I am still very excited that I will be given the chance to walk across that stage. At the same time, the Class of 2020 is going to get their graduation two weeks before my class’s, too. This one email which my classmates and alumni of the Class of 2020 and I had received made each of our days. We also know that the light is near and our hard work and achievements WILL be honored and celebrated by those at Meredith College, our family, and our friends.

While the past few months have felt like the ongoing pandemic would not ever end, I am starting to feel a lot of hope. With the news of an in-person graduation, my classmates are also feeling the same exact way. Knowing that we all feel the light coming onto us, especially with this amazing warm weather here in North Carolina, I am excited to see where this journey called life takes us all in a post-pandemic world!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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From Small Business Owner to Medical School: Interview with my Roommate Sophie

My roommate Sophie is one of my best friends and blessings that Meredith College has brought me. At the same time, Sophie has also restructured her life to aim for the stars in ways like never before. From an entrepreneur in high school to a med school bound college student, I bring to you an interview with my fabulous roommate!!!

Tell me a bit about yourself!

Current senior at Meredith College who is going to medical school in July!

What is your major at Meredith and what are you involved in on campus?

I am a double major in Biology and Psychology and a minor in Chemistry. I am an officer of both the Angels for Disability Advocacy and Meredith Advocates for Young Children as well as a member of other clubs on campus. 

Did you ever anticipate that you would select the major that you did looking back at your high school years?

Not at all. I started out coming into college wanting to be an engineer. When I actually saw and learned about what an engineer does, I realized I wanted to do more medically. Also, I further my love for children when I took my first class at the Meredith Autism Program and absolutely loved it! So, I decided to also be a Psychology major!

So, in high school, you and your sister had a brand called PinkyGirl. Tell me a bit about PinkyGirl!

It was a monogramming company on Instagram. We were international!

What made you and your sister want to start PinkyGirl?

Honestly, we started it just by chance of setting up an Instagram page! It took off by word of mouth.

I know PinkyGirl took off when you were in high school! Tell me about life as a female entrepreneur!

I was definitely busy, but I loved meeting my customers and the people and scientists involved in Susan G. Komen– we developed a partnership with Susan G. Komen.

How did you balance your high school life with running PinkyGirl?

It was a lot, but I had help from my family (Mom and Dad and of course my sister) and a few employees. We got so large that we had to move into a manufacturing facility and hire employees!

There are many highs and lows when it comes to running a business. What were some of yours?

Lows were keeping up with monogram orders, especially during the holidays. Sometimes, it felt like we were drowning. Highs included meeting customers and building meaningful relationships!

What were some of your favorite memories from PinkyGirl?

I absolutely loved having a booth at A Shopping Spree for being awarded “Entrepreneur of the Year!”

I know you went to Washington, DC as a result of your hard work with PinkyGirl. Explain to me a bit about that awesome experience of yours!

 I was flown to DC in order to be recognized for winning a young entrepreneur scholarship. I spoke with Thom Tillis and others about the importance of young entrepreneurship.

You do not run PinkyGirl anymore. Ultimately, you decided to pursue your dreams of becoming a doctor #FemalePower!!!! Tell me a bit about what made you decide to make that switch!

I have always had a passion for helping others, and I also loved learning, especially biology. At some point, I just realized that I wanted to do more with my life by directly helping people using my biology knowledge. The business route just wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life.

What piece of advice would you give to someone who is looking to start their own business?

Find a passion and stick with it, even if it is not the most popular at the time. Also, be unique!

I know you came in at Meredith wanting to pursue an engineering degree. What made you make the switch and realize that your dream is to become a doctor?

 I knew engineering was not for me when I truly got to experience what engineering would be like. I have always loved helping others, and I just did not get that direct sense with engineering. I wanted to do more and make a larger impact in people’s lives.

What would be your dream area specialization as a doctor?

Pediatrics or Family Medicine

You also are a Psychology major and have spent a ton of time working in the Meredith Autism Program (MAP). Explain to me about that amazing experience of yours at MAP!

I work as a teacher for children with autism to enhance learning age-appropriate academic and social behaviors. My duties are to implement behavior plans, analyze behavior data, perform discrete trial training, and communicate results. I earned my NC license as a Registered Behavior Technician. My time in this role has been monumental for my clients and me. Spending several years working one-on-one with children with autism has allowed me to develop my passion for helping others, especially young children.

Along with your work and involvement at Meredith, you also babysit a ton. Has babysitting helped affirm your decision to become a doctor?

Most definitely! It has influenced my wanting to become a pediatrician because I love working with children.

Explain to me the process of medical school applications

It’s a complex one that goes over my head! It was a lot–glad it’s over! So, you begin applying about a year before you want to start medical school. Also, you have to make sure you get the prerequisites fulfilled by junior year if you plan to go straight into medical school without a gap year. With this, you also have to plan out when you will take the MCAT and how you will study for it. Once everything is complete, it is basically just a waiting game of hoping to get an interview and then an acceptance. 

How have you successfully completed the medical school application process and what pieces of advice would you give to somebody who is wanting to or about to go through it themselves?

I would just say to start everything early and plan out! Have places in mind that you want to work at to gain clinical hours and also have some volunteering that you like to do and stick with it (even if it is just once a month for a few years).

As a fellow Woman in STEM, what is one thing that makes you proud of the STEM degree that you are about to accomplish?

I love knowing that I am able to use my STEM degree to make a true difference in the world!

What are the next steps in your journey to becoming a doctor?

Well, I still am waiting to hear from some other medical schools. Then, I will decide where I will be for the next phase of my life. Right now, I am really liking West Virginia where I just got accepted into!

Lastly, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

To just know that everything will work out how it is supposed to. Don’t stress. (This is so hard to remember when you are in the midst of your busy, chaotic life!).

Through it all, Sophie has aimed for the stars and she will reach them in ways like never before moving forward!

XOXO – Katie <3

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How I Buy College Textbooks for Less

Tis the season to be shopping for textbooks for the upcoming college semester. While college life for the most part can be such a blast, the part of shopping for college textbooks totally is not. Well, at least for myself. College textbooks come at a hefty price tag, but there are most definitely ways to purchase your textbooks for the semester for less and maybe even make some cash off of some of your old one’s.

1 – Buy Used Instead of New

Unless the textbook that your professor requires for a specific course requires that you buy your textbooks brand new/a specific new edition of it or with a specific access code to them, then buy them used. Textbooks that are used are a whole lot cheaper than those that are new. Sites like Chegg and even Amazon have a variety of textbooks to offer to you at a steal of the cost. Typically, I purchase my textbooks from Amazon, as I have Amazon Prime and can get free shipping. From personal experience, I know that Amazon shows a selection of price ranges for each textbook with new versus used, etc. – sites like Chegg most likely do the same exact thing!

2 – Buy Online Versions Instead of Paperback

I have always been a sucker for paperback books – it just makes the fact of using a textbook a lot easier for myself. On the contrary, I do know that online versions of textbooks are a whole lot cheaper than the paperback versions. If you are willing to live with an online textbook and are not an oddball like myself, then definitely save your cash. You can always print out pages of the book if you truly desire, too!

3 – Ask Around!

Usually, you will become friends with those within your college major. If that is the case, then ask around within your circle of classmates to see if they have textbooks for the classes you are about to take that they already took and do not need anymore. Usually, they will sell you their book for a steal of the cost or lend it to you. Fun fact: one of my close friends who is also a Math major bought me Chinese takeout one night in return for renting out my Abstract Algebra textbook that costs upwards of $150+. Luckily, I had found that textbook at the right time on Amazon over the summer before I took the course for way under its original cost and brand-new. However, I felt really great to receive some free food and save my good friend a ton of cash!

4 – Join Facebook Groups!

Like Meredith College where I attend, several different schools have Buy-Sell-Trade groups on Facebook. These Facebook Groups are an EXCELLENT opportunity to both sell and buy your textbooks at a steal of the cost. The best part?! Shipping is usually NOT included, especially when you can meet up on campus (if applicable given the current situation with Covid-19) socially distanced to pick up the book. That way, you’ll save A TON of cash and perhaps make some yourself.

5 – Give Old Books To Those Who Need Them More Than Yourself

Times are tough right now with the current looming coronavirus pandemic. Although times are tough now, they will get better but some will still be struggling to make ends meet even after the pandemic’s effects are still with some of us. If there is a textbook that you will never use again in your life and you know someone who could not afford it any other way, then give it to them if you can and feel comfortable doing so. Trust me, you will make a difference in their life and it will bring a smile to both of your faces.

College textbooks are expensive. I remember when I sat down with my mother before my first semester at Meredith and we both panicked over the accumulating costs of my first semester books, especially in those introductory level courses that require those $200+ access codes along with the textbook. Trust me, it is scary to look at the roaring costs of college textbooks, but it does get better. Luckily, professors at my college have been great about trying to require the cheapest textbook that there is or none at all or even online resources that are free. You will be able to save some money this semester and your college semesters moving forward. Most importantly, an investment in college textbooks however significant it may be for a particular semester is an investment in yourself and your education.

XOXO – Katie

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My Fall 2020 Semester Reflections

Fall 2020 will be a semester for the books, not just because of Covid-19’s occurrence but because of the great memories that I made. Yes, this sentence that I just said may sound like a joke. However, it is all very very true. Fall 2020 was one of my best semesters at Meredith. Despite everything that has all happened and been cancelled this semester and year, I am still very grateful for the experiences that I have had and the opportunities that have and are to come. Fall 2020 may have “sucked” in some regards, but it is what it is and as humans we have to continuously adapt and make it work for us.

Flashback to Spring 2020. I was anxious, sad, angry, and mourning the loss of my remaining “normal” college semester. When I say “normal,” I mean a semester that is filled with all of the typical things that college students do, such as outings with friends, large scale gatherings, and in-person classes on a regular basis. I thrived off of the social aspect of college as well as the academic aspect – they went hand in hand with my successes at Meredith. I became depressed and spent my days looking at old pictures and wishing for the happy memories that I had had in early 2020 and before to come back again. I wanted to make more memories just the way they were before. In fact, I majorly desired for it to occur.

As we all know, life is meant to change – it is our only consistency. With the changes that come with the coronavirus pandemic come adaptation. And adaptation takes time – it is not an overnight thing. Nothing happens overnight, especially coping with and dealing with change. Summer 2020 was a summer filled with self growth, knowing my self worth, and making the best of all of the harsh changes since March 2020. At the same time, I used my platform here on The Pink Chickadee to connect with others who are also fellow preppy fashion and Lilly Pulitzer lovers. The network that I have made has since grown into such a great blessing in my life. The Pink Chickadee truly helped me break out of my shell and adapt to the continuing changes in our world that have occurred throughout 2020 along with discovering to love my own self.

As I got into my Fall 2020 semester, I was nervous for what was to come. Nothing was going to look the same at the sweet college that I call my second home – Meredith. Meredith College is filled with a ton of large scale events known as Traditions that are unique to it. Each of these Traditions is super special to me and to my classmates. To watch the social aspect of Meredith that I saw before March 2020 disappear before my eyes made me sad and sometimes even cry.

Although I love the Traditions that truly make Meredith College Meredith College, my shift and energy has changed on what Meredith College means to me. With the current Black Lives Matter movement and momentum for inclusion of everyone, the ways that Meredith has run pre-Covid have not been the most inclusive for students of all races, sexualities, ethnicities, gender identities, religions, socioeconomic backgrounds, etc. While I love Meredith Traditions and the memories that they have brought me, they have hurt so many of my classmates in the past. Knowing this information now helps me to realize that while I loved Traditions, they are not the best thing to have right now and that is okay. Currently, I am working to help my Class as Fundraising Chair, my Math and Computer Science Department as Canaday Math & Computer Science Club (CMCS) President, and Angels for Disability Advocacy (ADA) Vice President by providing all students with inclusive virtual opportunities to be present and involved on campus.

This semester, I have really been able to shine inside and outside of the classroom. The Pink Chickadee has not only flourished, but it has grown in ways like never before this semester. If I had been uber engaged in Meredith College social life, then I would not have had time to progress on my platform as much as I did. At the same time, I have truly been able to succeed inside the classroom. My interests within my Data Science, Statistics, and Website Development courses have ignited and shined now more than ever before. I am also working on my Honors Thesis this year and really enjoying working on my own research project independently while applying my skillset from within the classroom to grow as a future Data Scientist even more. At the same time, I also made the Dean’s List – a symbol of all of my hardwork and passion this semester from the classroom and The Pink Chickadee.

The biggest consistency in my Fall 2020 semester life, before, and after it has been my friends. Each of my friends and I have all gone through the same things this year and, while none of us like it, we are all in this together. My friends are the people that I can count on to be safe and for me to do the same for them. We truly have had each others’ backs since before the coronavirus pandemic hit and during. They have truly been such a blessing in my life, and the bond that I have with each of my friends is something that I will never ever take for granted.

Although Fall 2020 looked nothing like I had envisioned it to, I am still oh so grateful and blessed for the memories and bonds that I have made. Without this semester, I would not have been able to genuinely grow my platform on The Pink Chickadee and as a human being in the ways that I have. Here’s to a great but very different semester and one left to come!

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Friend Shivani Speaks on Adjusting to Post-Graduate Life During Covid-19

From what my parents and friends have told me, adjusting to post-graduate life is not an easy transition. But, imagine that you are graduating college in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic? This has become the reality for several Class of 2020 and potentially Class of 2021 college students/recent graduates like myself. As I embark on this journey myself like many others around and before me, I decided to sit down with my good friend Shivani (a Class of 2020 college graduate) about her transition into the post-graduate world in the midst of Covid-19.

Tell me a bit about yourself!

So I was born in Boston,MA in the late 90’s and I lived in Delaware for most of my cognitive development years and life, then moved to Ohio and I’ve been in NC since 2014. My main interests are reading, dancing, working out, journaling, watching TV, and doing a whole bunch of nothing. I really enjoy now more than ever doing a whole bunch of nothing because I have a job now and I look forward to the time where I can relax. I went to two different high schools, and enjoyed both of them very much. And I graduated from Meredith College with a B.S. Public Health. I would love to have two Siberian Huskies one day and move back up north– North East area and settle down with my future husband and future kids!

So, I know you are also an influencer! What content do you like to share with others (drop your handle here too if you so choose!)?

I am all about mind, body and soul. So currently it’s a lot of selfies as I take social distancing and Coronavirus very seriously and I want everyone to understand the severity of our pandemic. Other interests include makeup and fashion! My handle for instagram is @shivanideva2020.

Where did you go to college and what was your degree?

I graduated from Meredith College in 2020 with my Bachelors of Science in Public Health with Minors in Biology and Chemistry.

How were you involved at Meredith?

I was heavily involved in Meredith in clubs and took up leadership positions. I wasn’t always this involved. My freshman year I took it quite easy and participated in clubs and made sure that my presence was known to the board members of the clubs. It’s because I did this that I was able to land a position on the MHPS board and move my way upward. Other clubs I was a part of were ISPE, SCUR, Tri-Beta.

So, you graduated in May 2020, what did Meredith do to commemorate you and your classmates’ achievements?

So since I graduated in the middle of the Pandemic I didn’t get a proper graduation. However most of us were able to get Graduation Pictures and I for sure certainly took mine!

Is there anything you wish Meredith could have done differently?

Honestly no, because at this point in time most of us have gotten the closure we needed and have moved on.

How did you cope with completing your degree from your house rather than at Meredith?

At first I was in denial because all I wanted was an extended spring break– senioritis in college is very real as well, hehe! But then it slowly sunk in that i wasn’t going to be ableto see my friends or socialize with anyone due to the pandemic and that doing my best to stay home and be socially distant was the only option I had. It allowed me to have to myself and really focus on my studies and finish it out strong and surprisingly my GPA was the highest its ever been!

Knowing that you graduated from college during a pandemic, how did you move beyond those college years into your post-graduation years all while mainly staying at home?

So for me looking for jobs was really hard because my initial plan was to go to graduate school within a year. After much consideration i realized that right now is not the time for more academia as I was really burnt out from undergrad. I took a SAS Programming course 2 months post and I was working towards a certification. And now I am employed at CCNC as a Case Investigator for COVID-19 and am working remotely!

What is one high of the past 6 months since graduating from Meredith?

Getting a job! Because it finally gave me the break I needed to get back up on the horse and start my career as well as use my degree.

What is one low of the past 6 months since graduating from Meredith? 

Well this is a heavy question but I have had to face the loss of a dear family friend alone compounded with the burden and fear that if I went out anywhere that I would get the virus and jeopardize my parents who are both at high risk for contracting the virus.

How have you stayed connected to your friends from Meredith since March? What suggestions do you have for others who struggle to remain connected to their college life?

Technology and Facetime are a GODSEND!!!!! Use that phone for something else other than watching the same YouTube Video over and over again. I kept in contact with all of those who are near and dear to me and they did the same as well! My advice for those who are struggling is keep making the effort and showing that you care about the other person; if you are meant to be in their lives and they yours then things will work out. Use your social media and constantly check in on one another, use your email to stay in touch with your professors–they still care and want to know what’s going on.

How do you stay involved at Meredith as an alumni? How can others get involved at their own alma maters?

 think having connections with professors and staying in contact with other alumna helps. Also have friends who are younger and are underclassmen and can get you on panels to talk to students!

What strategies did you use to cope with going into adulthood virtually?

Yoga, working out a lot, and not lashing out at everyone and everything. It was hard at first, bit a good thing that came out of journaling was that I journaled everyday and didn’t cluster together days or weeks. I also used my zoom classes as a way to see friends and looked forward to those meetings!

How did you process the fact that you missed out on the last weeks of your college experience?

This is again a very hard question to answer because truthfully I was in denial, and then I was angry. The anger lasted for about 3 months and I realized that I was fighting a battle alone that just had no end result or goal really. I couldn’t fight the pandemic on my own, the population of the GLOBE had to get it into their head that the situation is serious and it shouldn’t be ignored. But later i was able to reflect and honestly the pandemic gave me time to think. Most of my life has always been go-go-go, like running a race of some sort. So it was very nice to see how I had this time where there was no pressure on me to meet a deadline or attend a conference.

How did you move beyond college life during Covid-19 into your post-graduation life?

Again the time from graduation to getting a job for me was 6 months and during that time I kept myself busy. An idle mind is the devil’s workshop! So keep yourself busy and also think about life in the bigger picture and make plans for what your purpose is and how to go about fulfilling it! And I look at everything as a stage or phase of life. High School was a phase, College is one as well. Each and every step teaches you something so learn and learn honestly and take those lessons and move forward in life implementing them.

What are the major differences between college life and post-graduation life from your experiences?

So academia is a process and a progression whereas working a job is very boxed in and has a time frame. For example in college if you didn’t get to study for the material for an exam on a monday you still had time to do it the whole week before the exam–meaning you have to work outside of classroom hours. With work, all of your knowledge and work ethic have to be displayed and put to use during that 8 hour time frame, but afterwards you are free to do whatever you want to do.

For those who struggle with knowing what they want to do post-graduation, what would you say to them?

You are the creator of your own timeline. I listen to a lot of Jay Shetty and he has incredible wisdom so I recommend his podcasts to begin with. But with that being said as Jay stated, be in control of your own timeline but make sure it is fulfilling and busy for you. I wouldn’t not recommend sitting idle and doing nothing. Make vision boards, pick up a job, find a new hobby and see if you can make an interest of yours a passion and a career.

Our world is changing and has changed so much. What are some tips that you have for soon to be or recent college graduates with adapting to these new changes as they enter the workforce?

Looking for a job starts before you graduate. The job market is hard and so make sure you are going to networking events and make sure you stay in contact with those contacts. After a certain point it’s not what you know it’s who you know that gets you your job.

The Class of 2021 (including myself) is graduating in May and even December with mainly virtual college since March 2020. What is one piece of advice that you have for students graduating in December 2020 or May 2021 as they make this transition?

Take it in stride. This is not your karma or the universe trying to get back at you because you can’t graduate like the classes before you. Remember that you are and always will be strong to get through this. You just have to keep repeating it and believe in it and yourself.

Last but not least, what is one thing that you would say to yourself a year ago from today knowing what was about to come?

Reach out to those people who you were shy to reach out to or afraid to reach out to. More than likely chances are that they will remember you and want to say hi as well. Break the ice. And also don’t take for granted what you have before time makes you realize how precious it was what you had.

As Shivani has shared, remember to make the best of every moment even if that moment looks a bit different due to Covid-19. Chances are, you will not have that time ever in your life again. Most importantly, pandemic or not, the best is yet to come!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Life as a College Student in Philadelphia During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Life during the coronavirus pandemic has most definitely been a whirlwind! With social distancing protocols being enforced and encouraged, many of us would not even think to go to a city during this time. On the same token, there are many people like my friend Violet who are students and/or live in a big city regularly. With our current precautions being put in place to slow the spread of the novel Covid-19, city life has definitely changed, but it is most definitely still a thing. Today, Violet will be sharing her experiences living in a city *something that is unthinkable to some* during the coronavirus pandemic.

Tell me a bit about yourself!

I am a junior biology major at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania!  I also have minors in Spanish and history.  Some of my favorite things about going to college are being a part of organizations on campus and exploring the city!  My favorite organizations are Irish Dance Club and Phi Sigma Pi.

Where is your hometown?

I am from Fairfax Station, Virginia.

What city and school are you attending?

I attend Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

What is your living situation like in Philadelphia?

I live in an off-campus house with my three other roommates.  We are within walking distance from campus!

Describe to me what life in Philadelphia was like before Covid-19

Before Covid-19, I really enjoyed both on-campus and off-campus activities.  At our school, we have had many events such as concerts, plays, basketball games, formals, etc.  Unfortunately, these events have been cancelled or a select few have been virtual.  I also have enjoyed going into the city to go thrifting, out to eat, or explore different areas.  One of the great things about the city is that I never run out of things to do- one of my favorite spots is South Street!  I used to take public transportation or an Uber fairly often, but I have not done this much since the pandemic.  Additionally, I used to attend in person classes every day.

Now, describe to me how life in Philadelphia is during the Covid-19 pandemic once you came back

Life in Philadelphia during the pandemic has been an adjustment!  Like I mentioned, we are no longer having on-campus events.  Thus far, there havebeen a few virtual events such as a Q&A with John Mulaney (which was awesome).  I have gone into the city as well!  Luckily, one of my roommates has a car this year, so we have not had to take public transportation as much.  This has been great because we were concerned about possibly contracting Covid-19 while taking public transportation.  I have taken an Uber a couple of times, but the drivers have always been great about wearing masks and not allowing passengers to sit in the front seat!  In the city, most people wear masks and keep themselves socially distanced.  In addition, I have a course schedule with online classes and few in person classes.  My in person classes have much less students and are socially distanced!

What are some of the key changes to Philadelphia life during the pandemic?

In Philadelphia, people have been taking the pandemic very seriously.  For example, most restaurants are still only allowing outdoor seating.  There has also been a mask order for many months, which has helped Covid-19 cases remain relatively low in comparison to other parts of the country.

How are people reacting to the current social distancing guidelines in Philadelphia and on your college campus?

For the most part, students have been compliant with mask mandates and social distancing guidelines.  There have been a few instances of students having large gatherings, but they have faced disciplinary action and/or sent into a mandatory quarantine.  My school is taking the pandemic very seriously, especially because other Philadelphia schools have already had to send their students home.  In general, people in Philadelphia have also been cooperative with social distancing guidelines.  Throughout the spring and summer, the city was able to keep the rate of transmission moderately low, but there has been a recent spike in cases.

How does life during Covid-19 in a city differ from life outside a city?

There are not too many differences, or at least in my experience.  Both Virginia and Philadelphia have mask mandates and enforced social distancing.  The main difference is that Philadelphia is much more crowded.  When I go into the city, I am always sure to distance myself from other people.  I have also noticed that there are longer lines to enter stores, because stores reach capacity very quickly.

Do you feel that it is easier to practice social distancing protocols outside of a city?

In certain situations, it is definitely easier to practice social distancing protocols outside of a city.  For instance, social distancing with public transportation or in busy areas can be difficult.  Overall, social distancing is not too difficult because places are very strict about not exceeding their capacity so that people can easily social distance.  In my opinion, the hardest part has been socially distancing in college.  I have definitely not been able to see my friends as often, but it is much more important that we keep everyone safe!

How have you gotten creative with taking precautions in Philadelphia?

Fortunately, one of my roommates was able to bring a car this year so we do not have to take public transportation as often!  I have also been trying to spend more time outside- especially when hanging out with other people (small groups only and masks on!).

Do you feel that the importance of wearing a mask, especially in a big city like Philadelphia helps when taking precautions?

Absolutely, masks always help!  Philadelphia has actually been very cautious when it comes to masks and precautions.  The city has be good about enforcing mask orders, which has allowed Philadelphia to be one of the cities with the lowest rates of transmission in the country.

What would you tell somebody who is considering visiting a city during the pandemic?

I would tell someone who is considering visiting a city to take every precaution in their power. Cities can get quite crowded, especially when taking public transportation.  It is important to always remain aware of your surroundings so that you can keep yourself distanced from other people and stay safe during the pandemic.

What would you tell yourself before this pandemic?

I would tell myself to not have any expectations!  Obviously, at the beginning of this pandemic, I did not expect it to last this long.  I now know that this pandemic has the potential to last much longer, especially if people do not socially distance themselves!

What are your most important takeaways to living in a city during a pandemic?

Most importantly, I would say that it is still possible to have fun while taking important precautions.  There are so many safe activities like having a picnic in a park, going for a hike, or exploring less crowded areas of the city.  Finding ways to relax is important (especially in a pandemic!).  Life is so stressful right now, so it is great to find some sources of enjoyment!

Life is definitely crazy in these times and living in a city does not help alleviate that fact. However, there are many ways to still cope with the new changes in our lives and adapt to this new and temporary way of living just as Violet described. City life will definitely look different after the pandemic, but however we choose to make our life on this planet is the outlook that we will bring. If the coronavirus hasn’t taught you anything so far, then I hope that Violet’s experiences in Philadelphia shine some light into your life.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My First Month of College During Covid-19

To think that I would ever be going to classes while wearing a face mask or through Zoom is truly above me. At this moment, I feel extremely fortunate that Meredith College has not moved all classes permanently online for the Fall semester like many of the other colleges around me. While I feel really lucky to still be on campus a month in, it is still pretty tough to be taking on Senior year in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. Today, I am sharing my one month reflection of being at college during Covid-19.

It is most definitely weird to be back on campus without the social aspect that my professors, classmates, and I really cherish. At Meredith, social events play an extremely vital role in the college experience, just like at pretty much every other college. To say that I miss that part of being at college would be an understatement, as I am a social person by nature – actually very very very social. Pre-pandemic, I was definitely that girl who hosted parties and gatherings of all kinds in her apartment. Not to mention the several activities that I did with others off campus as well. At the same time, I do know that in-person social events are put on hold right now and for good reason. That being said, I have strived to make it work for the time being, with getting together with friends both a virtual and/or social distanced environment. While it most definitely is not the same for me this semester

In terms of classes, I have had a mixture of in-person and online – 3 in-person and four online. Over the first few weeks of classes, I decided to switch two of my in-person classes to all online. Oddly enough, I have really enjoyed the online environment for classes during the pandemic. Although it was forced, I really like having the flexibility and honestly not having to leave my apartment or even bedroom for that matter to accomplish what I need to. At the moment, I have one in-person class and I chose to keep it in-person, as I have a bond with my classmates and professors in it. This class is also a favorite of mine, so it really worked out to keep it in-person.

Since I do have a lot more free time on my hands, I have been using it in many different ways. First, I have truly been able to invest in my platform here on The Pink Chickadee. Having the ability to be able to share what I do with y’all has truly been a blessing during this entire pandemic! At the same time, I have been able to invest in looking towards the future, through making connections at potential graduate schools and with potential employers. I have been conducting a ton of informational interviews with graduate school students at programs that I am interested in as well as people at companies that peak my interest. In my free time, I usually spend it crafting, which has become a new favorite hobby of mine! To be able to invest in myself so much more than before has really been a blessing even while in classes during this pandemic.

Looking back on my first month of classes of my Senior year, there have been many ups and downs, but one thing that remains for sure is the friends that I made, the family that I have, and the degree that I am attaining. Senior year, Coronavirus edition, was definitely not in my plan for my four years of college. However, like many things in life, plans can and will change and we have to be OKAY with that. Even though there is SO MUCH uncertainty at the moment, I do know that things will always work out in ways that we could have never even imagined. Simply hopping along for the ride and knowing that everyone around me, even if it is virtually, is going through similar things is extremely comforting and the way to go!

XOXO – Katie <3

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