How I Got Involved in College

Getting involved is a GREAT way to stay in the know and connected to others when in college! Throughout my four years at Meredith College, I got involved in a ton of different ways (you read more about them here). As a recent college grad, I definitely have experienced the in’s and out’s of getting involved at college and staying connected throughout your four years (or more or less) of college, even with COVID-19 (I also wrote a guide on that, too – read it here!). There are a variety of ways that one can get connected within their college campus, which I am happily here to share!

How To: Get Involved at College

  1. Attend club fairs – colleges have a variety of different organizations. Club fairs are an opportunity to go learn more about all of the clubs and organizations that you can get involved in on your campus. You can easily acquire a lot of information on several different organizations. Most of these organizations also have opportunities for you to connect with them such as signing up for email lists, connecting on social media, etc. The best part?! You get to learn about them all all at once!
  2. Facebook Groups and other social media pages – the majority of colleges have Facebook Groups of sorts. I know that Meredith College has a Facebook Group for each class which is an excellent way to meet all accepted students and students who eventually will become official members of your college class. Not only can you meet potential roommates and suite mates from these groups, but you can also connect with folks in various other ways. Meredith is a much smaller college than others, so, personally, I am not as aware of if other colleges have other Facebook Groups beyond theirs classes. But, whatever your school does have, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THEM!!!
  3. Introduce yourself to a friendly face – whether in in the classroom, dining hall, or around campus, if you see a friendly face then introduce yourself! Bit the bullet and create ties with someone new. For instance, in the classroom, it is always super nice to have study buddies. As you dig into your major-related classes, it is super great to have created bonds with those within your major and major-related classes. Some of the best bonds that I have created are with those from within my major and truly connected with them. My fellow Math major friends and I would get together every so often and have dinners together along with attending events on-campus. Moreover, you can also connect and get involved with folks in your academic area of interest, too, in college events, clubs, and much more!
  4. Attend club/organization functions of your interest – attending a club’s/organization’s meetings is an excellent way to meet others that may be on the same wavelength as yourself when it comes to that area of interest that can be offered there. Many clubs/organizations provide others with the opportunity to attend events and get involved on their campus within several ways.
  5. Know that it TAKES TIME – one of the things that I needed to realize but didn’t right away is that your involvement and friendships in college do not come to you right away. Trust me, it ALL TAKES TIME! Just be open to whatever comes your way and establish as many connections as you can and, trust me, it will all unfold the way it is meant to and when you least expect it.

Getting involved in college can be daunting, but it is so rewarding in the end. The relationships that you will establish could last a lifetime and some, if not many, will. The same goes for the memories that you will make, too!

XOXO – Katie <3

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What I Bought for my College Dorm

Shopping and planning out your college dorm can be exciting, but it can also be so daunting. Four years ago, I remember shopping and planning out my own college dorm. I wish I had a list to guide me through it all. So, I have made that for y’all who are currently shopping for their own college dorm!

***Please note that every college dorm is different and so is every college. Each college will have different rules and guidelines as to what you can and cannot bring with you. Please follow them. At the same time, every dorm is different with its set up, too, so please be mindful of its set up, too.***

The Ultimate College Dorm List

Bed

  1. Duvet cover/quilt/comforter
  2. Bed skirt
  3. 2+ sets of sheets
  4. Pillow Inserts
  5. Decorative Pillows
  6. Mattress pad/topper
  7. Headboard (if so desired)
  8. Throw blanket from home
  9. Stuffed animal(s) from home
  10. Pillow pet(s) from home
  11. Pillows
  12. Heated blanket/weighted blanket (if applicable)
  13. Slippers

Dresser

  1. Perfume tray (if desired)
  2. Jewelry tray(s)
  3. Jewelry organizer(s)
  4. Necklace rack
  5. Alarm clock
  6. Lamp(s)
  7. Hair tools/brushes organizer(s)
  8. Hair tools
  9. Hair brushes
  10. Makeup
  11. Makeup brushes
  12. Makeup organizer(s)
  13. Nail polish
  14. Nail polish remover
  15. Dresser organizer(s)
  16. Hair spray/dry shampoo
  17. Drawer liners

Wall

  1. String lights
  2. Wall decorations
  3. Clock (if desired)
  4. Command strips
  5. Command hooks

Bathroom

  • Shower caddy
  • Flip flops
  • Toiletries
  • Plastic cup
  • 3+ Body towels
  • 5+ Wash cloths
  • 3+ Hand towels
  • Shower curtain (if suite style)
  • Bath Matt (if suite style)
  • Shower Matt (if suite style)
  • Shower curtain liner (if suite style)
  • Medicine
  • First aid kit
  • Feminine products Bandaids
  • Mini trash bags (if suite style)
  • Mini trash can (if suite style)

Desk

  1. Desk Lamp
  2. Framed photo(s)
  3. Textbooks

Food Items

  1. Keurig/Coffee maker (if desired)
  2. K-Cups (if desired)
  3. Tea kettle (if desired)
  4. Tea bags
  5. Mugs
  6. Plastic and/or paper plates and bowls
  7. Plastic and/or metal utensils
  8. Plastic cups
  9. Coffee creamer
  10. Mini fridge
  11. Magnets
  12. Storage basket(s)
  13. Snacks
  14. Pot(s) and/or pan(s)
  15. Brita water filter
  16. Tumblers
  17. Water bottles

Closet

  1. Clothing
  2. Shoes
  3. Accessories
  4. Shoe rack
  5. Command hooks
  6. Hangers
  7. Disposable masks
  8. Cloth masks
  9. Clothing rack
  10. Mirror
  11. Storage bins

Desk

  1. Textbooks
  2. Notebooks
  3. Binders
  4. Notebook paper
  5. Tape
  6. Tape dispenser
  7. Stapler
  8. Staples
  9. Pencils
  10. Pens
  11. Pencil case
  12. Calculator
  13. Sticky notes
  14. Note pad(s)
  15. Books
  16. Checkbook
  17. Files
  18. File holder
  19. Folders
  20. Envelops
  21. Stationary
  22. Monitor(s) (if desired)
  23. Mousepad
  24. Computer mouse
  25. Planner/to do list (if needed)
  26. Chargers
  27. Desk pillow and/or back relief
  28. Desk chair and/or chair cover
  29. Index cards
  30. Storage baskets and/or cubbies
  31. Desk hutch (if desired)
  32. Backpack
  33. Printer paper
  34. Printer (if applicable)
  35. Printer ink (if applicable)
  36. Cork board (if desired)

Miscellaneous

  1. Bookshelf
  2. Storage cubbies
  3. Under bed storage bins and/or drawers
  4. Stand up lamp
  5. Rug
  6. Lanyard
  7. Curtains
  8. Trash bags
  9. Trash can
  10. Laundry basket
  11. Laundry detergent and/or fabric softener
  12. Any other desired decorations
  13. Soap
  14. Hand sanitizer
  15. Room spray/scent plug-in’s
  16. Duffel bag and/or suitcases to visit home, of course!

Happy shopping and cheers to the next four years plus or minus some of college!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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What I Bought for my College Apartment

It can be SO daunting when you are deciding what you need to get when moving into an apartment. College apartments are so exciting at the same time – it is a symbol of freedom and independence especially from the dining hall food haha. I lived in my beloved college apartment on-campus for my Junior and Senior year of college. I had so many great experiences in my college apartment, and I know you all will in yours too. That being said, I have made a massive college apartment list, in order to help y’all when shopping and packing for yours.

Please note that this master list is catered to a furnished apartment. All furniture items that are needed will probably be determined by yourself based on your own apartment needs and desires. Happy shopping and best of luck!

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

The Ultimate College Apartment List

Bedroom

  1. Mattress pad and/or topper
  2. Bedding
  3. 2+ sets of sheets
  4. Pillows
  5. Pillow cases and/or covers
  6. Rug
  7. Mini fridge (if needed)
  8. TV (if desired)
  9. Dresser organizers
  10. Jewelry tray(s) and/or necklace rack
  11. Jewelry organizer(s)
  12. Perfume tray (if desired)
  13. Makeup organizer(s)
  14. Hair tools
  15. Hair brushes
  16. Hair tools/brushes organizer(s)
  17. Alarm clock
  18. Throw blankets
  19. Heated blanket/weighted blanket (if applicable)
  20. Lamp(s)
  21. Decorations

Bathroom

  1. Toothbrush holder
  2. Storage containers and/or organizers
  3. Over the shower rack
  4. Bath towels
  5. Hand towels
  6. Wash cloths
  7. Bath matts
  8. Medicine
  9. First Aid kit
  10. Bandaids
  11. Mini trash can
  12. Mini trash bags
  13. Cleaning supplies
  14. Plunger
  15. Decorations

Work Space

  1. Textbooks
  2. Book shelf
  3. Desk chair pillow and/or back relief
  4. Notebooks
  5. Chargers
  6. Computer mouse
  7. Monitor(s) (if desired)
  8. Mousepad
  9. Planner/to do list (if needed)
  10. Pencils
  11. Pens
  12. Calculator
  13. Sticky notes
  14. Index cards
  15. Stationary
  16. Erasers
  17. Pencil lead
  18. Pencil sharpener
  19. Tape
  20. Tape dispenser
  21. Stapler
  22. Staples
  23. Mini trash can
  24. Mini trash bags
  25. Desk lamp
  26. Note pad
  27. Books
  28. Checkbook
  29. Stamps
  30. Envelopes
  31. Files
  32. File holder
  33. Folders
  34. Binders
  35. Backpack
  36. Notebook paper
  37. Printer paper
  38. Printer (if applicable)
  39. Printer ink
  40. Decorations

Closet

  1. Mirror
  2. Shoe rack
  3. Hangers
  4. Storage bins
  5. Clothing Rack (if needed/desired)

Kitchen

  1. Set of utensils
  2. Plates
  3. Bowls
  4. Paper towels
  5. Paper towel holder
  6. Soap dispenser
  7. Dishwasher detergent
  8. Sponges
  9. Dish soap
  10. Hand soap
  11. Cups
  12. Wine glasses (if of-age)
  13. Can opener
  14. Wine bottle opener (if of-age)
  15. Beer bottle opener (if of-age)
  16. Scissors
  17. Kitchen knives
  18. Cutting boards
  19. Ziploc bags
  20. Aluminum foil
  21. Plastic wrap
  22. Trash can
  23. Trash bags
  24. Magnets
  25. Brita water filter
  26. Recycle bin
  27. Water bottle(s)
  28. Mugs
  29. Tumbler(s)
  30. Kitchen appliances (my favorite include – my mini Keurig, my Instant Pot, my Crockpot, my Ninja Air Fryer, my KitchenAid Hand Mixer, and my Fondue Makers)
  31. Toaster
  32. Blender/food processor
  33. Pans
  34. Pots
  35. Skillets
  36. Cooking utensils
  37. Spices
  38. Non-perishable food items
  39. Casserole dishes
  40. Dutch oven
  41. Tea towels
  42. Placemats
  43. Tablecloths
  44. Table runners
  45. Cooler/lunch bag – my favorite is the Scout Pleasure Chest!
  46. Napkins
  47. Food storage containers
  48. Ice cube tray
  49. Ice packs
  50. Microwaveable bowl with lid
  51. Measuring cups
  52. Mixing bowls
  53. Decorations

Living Area

  1. Couch cover
  2. TV
  3. Throw pillows
  4. Board and/or card games
  5. Rug
  6. DVD’s
  7. Game console (if applicable)
  8. Decorations

Laundry Room

  1. Laundry detergent
  2. Fabric softener
  3. Dryer sheets
  4. Anti-wrinkle spray
  5. Iron
  6. Ironing board
  7. Clothes Hangers (1-4)
  8. Hair remover roll(s)
  9. Vacuum
  10. Cleaning supplies
  11. Laundry basket
  12. Hamper
  13. Swiffer
  14. Swiffer wipes
  15. Broom

Miscellaneous

  1. Device chargers
  2. Air purifier and/or humidifier
  3. Fan(s)
  4. Storage bins and/or plastic storage drawers
  5. Plants (if desired)
  6. Febreeze/Glade
  7. Candles and candle lighter (if allowed and desired )
  8. Scent plug-in’s
  9. Command strips and hooks
  10. Fake plants (if desired)
  11. Craft supplies (if desired)
  12. Holiday decorations (if desired)
  13. Clorox wipes
  14. Essential oil diffuser (if applicable)
  15. Speaker(s) (if applicable)
  16. Face masks and/or face shield
  17. Multiple bottles of hand sanitizer
  18. Door wreath/welcome sign
  19. Door mat

Here’s to making memories in your own apartment very soon!

XOXO – Katie <3

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I Planned an Event During COVID-19

COVID-19 has transformed the ways that events are held. Unfortunately, my Senior year social calendar was taken over by Zoom. At the same time though, I got to enjoy some in-person events, including one event that I got to plan myself with some of my Meredith friends and Tri-Chairs Maggie and Miranda. The event was socially distanced and followed all of the safety measures put in place, in order to protect ourselves from COVID-19. Through it all, getting to plan an event during the pandemic was such a bittersweet and fun experience.

Meredith College is notorious for their Traditions also known as events that are put on each year for with specific one’s for each class based on their year. The Tradition that I got to help plan was Class Day. Class Day is a Tradition held for Sophomores and Seniors each year where the Sophomore Class honors the Senior Class who is their Big Sis class on graduating and reflecting on their four years at Meredith. The Sophomore (Lil Sis Class) creates a daisy chain in the shape of the numerals of their graduating Big Sis Class. It is such a sentimental event for both classes and it was super fun to plan!

In terms of COVID-19, Class Day obviously looked a bit different. Usually, Class Day is held in the courtyard at Meredith; however, due to COVID-19, my Tri-Chairs and I decided to hold it in our amphitheater, in order to accommodate more people who maintaining a social distance. Usually, the daisy chain is presented in the form of a processional, instead, we had the Lil’s procession out themselves without the daisy chain. And, obviously, everyone was seated 6 feet apart and no guests were allowed. Lastly, we held the event at 3 different time slots, which people could sign up for via SignUp Genius. The time slots were much shorter than the traditional 1-2 hour long event as they were 30 minutes each and everyone had to leave right after the event. Although Class Day did not look the way that it had in years past, my Tri-Chairs and I still made it look very beautiful and made it special for our classmates and ourselves.

In a typical year, most Class Day meetings are held in-person. This year, they were held over Zoom. After having an entire year of Zoom meetings, I still found them to be just as productive as in-person meetings if not even more. I was able to better multitask on Zoom than in-person and be able to snack better rather than not being able to while wearing a mask. It was also nice because I could meet from wherever, too!

My main duty for Class Day was to coordinate the fundraiser. As the Class of 2021 Fundraising Chair, I had coordinated several fundraisers throughout this past year before and knew how to successfully execute one yet again. Since the Class of 2020 and Class of 2022 missed out on their Class Day fundraiser due to the pandemic last year, I decided to hold the Class Day fundraiser to include the Classes of 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. I had a friend of mine in my Lil Sis Class (Class of 2023) share with me an amazing shirt design in February that my Tri-Chairs and I loved it so much that we decided to use it. In the past, we have sold and designed a Class Day towel to sell as the Sophomores carry out the daisy chain. But, since the daisy chain could not be safely carried out with social distancing considered, we decided to sell a mask instead. One of my Tri-Chairs also made a mask design with a daisy on it. So, we sold both a mask and a shirt.

Throughout the entire planning process, there were many meetings, emails, and times to even meet up in-person. I cannot tell you how many email chains I have been apart of in the past 6 weeks! Some of the email chains were super fun to read, too. Although we had to make several changes to Class Day this year as compared to years past, it was still a super special event and I am glad I got to be apart of planning it. Moreover, there were many changes that my Tri-Chairs and I actually enjoyed that the staff members who advise the planning process with us all liked and want to keep as apart of Class Day moving forward. It was great to be able to make some changes that are going to be in place for years to come.

Overall, I am oh so blessed that I was able to be apart of planning an amazing Tradition, such as Class Day. Class Day is a bittersweet event for both the Sophomore and Senior classes. I was happy I could be a major part of making it happen, even during COVID-19!

XOXO – Katie <3

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A List of ALL the Things that I was Involved in at Meredith College

As my good friend Hannah and I would say to one another, overcommitment at its finest! If I have not done it, then I don’t know what I didn’t do back in college. I most definitely overcommitted to all of the activities and methods of involvement on my college campus. The ways that I have been a leader and did different activities was most definitely one for the books. Since graduating college this past weekend, it has been nice to be able to reflect on my four years at the amazing Meredith College. Today, I am sharing all of the things that I was involved in on Meredith’s campus.

Freshmen Year

Planning my first-ever Meredith event – a painting party social!
  • Big Sis/Little Sister Co-Chair – in this position, I served with a friend of mine as the co-chair for Meredith’s Big Sister/Little Sister program. The Big Sister/Little Sister program at Meredith pairs every Freshmen (Little Sis) with a Junior (Big Sis) and it is such an exciting an amazing asset of my college. In this role, I coordinated a fundraiser for a Meredith Lux tote bag and a Big/Lil Social painting party called Cupcakes & Canvases with my Big Sis class – the Class of 2019. It was all super fun and such a great way to kick off my Freshmen year!
  • Honors Program Scholar’s Weekend Coordinator – Scholar’s Weekend is hosted every February at Meredith College. It is a weekend for accepted students to interview for academic-specific programs like the Honors Program, Teaching Fellows (for aspiring teachers), Art, Music, Interior Design, etc. I had such an amazing time with my experience at Scholar’s Weekend that I decided to coordinate it myself to help host and welcome the Class of 2022!
  • Fire & Water Committee Class of 2019 Liaison – Fire & Water is the first-ever Freshmen-only Tradition (event) that occurs every Spring. At this event, everyone burns a bad memory and floats a good memory and there is a dinner to commemorate all of us surviving and making it through our Freshmen year of college. I got to attend weekly committee meetings which was super fun and help make decisions for this event with other committee members. My specific role was to coordinate my Big Sis Class of 2019 in coming to “surprise” our class at the end of the event. Serving on this committee was one of my favorite things to do during my Freshmen year, especially getting to help set up and clean up the event with jumping into Meredith’s fountain at the end of it all!
  • Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society member – My Freshmen year I got to join the Alpha Lambda Delta Freshmen year Honor Society.
  • Honors Program Fall Trip Planning Committee Member – The Honors Program which I was apart of all four years at Meredith has a weekend Fall Trip to a Southern East Coast city. My Freshmen year, I got to plan the Honors Fall Trip 2018 to Washington, DC one of my hometowns. The Dean of the Honors Program helped us plan it all and he loved getting to have my expertise on the committee. It was also fun to be able to meet others from all other years at Meredith on that committee!
Pre-Scholar’s Weekend photo to welcome in the Class of 2022!
Cupcakes & Canvases paintings with my Big Sis Stephanie!
The whole Fire & Water committee post-event!
The Big Sis “surprise” was successfully planned! My friend Cassie & I enjoying some flowers from our Big’s to celebrate.
My Big Sis Stephanie and I at Fire & Water!
The best part of Fire & Water – jumping into the fountain with my good friend Lexie!!!
The Washington, DC trip my Sophomore year was successfully planned. Here, my good friend Kaylee and I are on an illuminated monuments tour along the National Mall.

Sophomore Year

The Honor Code Ceremony – a big event to end Freshmen orientation. I got to experience it yet again as a Freshmen Student Adviser.
  • Big Sis/Little Sister Co-Chair – I was happily able to serve as the Big Sister/Little Sister Co-Chair *again* for my Sophomore year of college! While I did not do too much more than my Freshmen year the next year in this role, I got to help coordinate and sell shirts and fundraiser items for my fellow classmates who also served in Class of 2021 officer positions – something that I really loved doing!
  • Honors Program Scholar’s Weekend Coordinator – After successfully coordinating Scholar’s Weekend my Freshmen year, I got the opportunity to coordinate it again, but this time with my two good friends Kaylee and Lexie and this time welcoming in our Little Sis class – the Class of 2023! It was a super special and fun weekend for me, Kaylee, and Lexie.
  • Alpha Lamda Delta Honor Society Induction Ceremony Co-Chair – this role was my first of many serving on an Executive Board for an on-campus organization. I got to plan and serve as the Co-Chair for the Alpha Lambda Delta Induction Ceremony in April 2019. It was super fun and also the first time I ever lit a candle in Meredith’s Chapel (luckily, we all survived LOL!). At the same time, I served as an active member of Alpha Lambda Delta’s Executive Board where I got to contribute to making decisions for the organization and even help with a fundraiser!
  • Honors Program Fall Trip Planning Committee Chief Information Officer – I *yet again* served on the Honors Program, but this time as the Chief Information Officer. My good friend Kaylee served as the Committee Chair, so she nominated me to be the Chief Information Officer which was super fun! The Fall 2019 trip was to Charleston, South Carolina and it was my first-ever time going there so it was a blast and oh so exciting!
  • First Year Experience (FYE) Student Assistant – One of my favorite roles was getting to serve as a student assistant for the First Year Experience (FYE) Freshmen-only class. I assisted this course with two staff members in the Alumnae House and it was such a blast. I began connect with my two instructors (one of which was my host of all things at Scholar’s Weekend and accepted a job at Meredith as an alum). In this course, I got to help Freshmen adjust to on-campus life and tell them ALL about all of the fun things at Meredith and what makes Meredith College Meredith College.
  • Freshmen Student Adviser (SA) – Another one of my favorite roles at Meredith was getting to be a mentor to incoming Freshmen as a Freshmen Student Adviser (SA). An SA is essentially an orientation group leader for a set group of incoming Freshmen who sticks around as a friend and mentor to that same group of students throughout their entire Freshmen year.
Move-in day with all of the other Class of 2021 Freshmen Student Advisers.
Honor Code Ceremony with my advising group!
Scholar’s Weekend 2019 with Kaylee after we successfully coordinated the event!
Another successfully Honors Fall Trip 2019 to Charleston, South Carolina. Here, me and my good friends Kaylee, Hannah, and Miranda and I are on the dinner cruise on the Spirit of Charleston.
Kaylee and I showing off our Meredith Angel pride along the Charleston waterfront!

Junior Year

Freshmen Student Adviser welcome dinner!
  • Honors Program Fall Trip Planning Committee Chair – Even though COVID-19 hit at the end of my Spring 2020 semester, I still got to take charge and chair the planning for the now-cancelled Fall 2020 trip to Asheville, North Carolina. I lead the initiative to postpone the trip to the Spring 2021 semester which was sadly cancelled, too. However, I am still very grateful for the experience that I had and the opportunity to still lead.
  • Class of 2021 Elections Board Representative – I got to serve as a Class Representative for Meredith’s Elections Board, which is in charge of all of the elections for each class each year. My favorite part about this role was getting to watch everyone who ran for a class position during the 2020-2021 academic year’s campaign video to ensure that they met Meredith’s Elections Board standards.
  • Honors Program Scholar’s Day Coordinator – I served for my third and final year as a coordinator for Scholar’s Weekend which switched to a day known as Scholar’s Day in February 2020. This time around, I got to interview four candidates for the Honors Program with my fellow Math professor and Honors Committee member Dr. Andreae. I had a blast and still got to help coordinate, too!
  • Residents Housing Association (RHA) Publicity Chair – One of the highlights of my Junior year at Meredith was getting to run the social media page for the Residents Housing Association (RHA). RHA’s purpose is to connect students and ensure their safety and wellbeing in on-campus life at Meredith. I got to design graphics and flyers and advertise them, too. I also got to serve on RHA’s Executive Board and attend regular meetings to help make decisions for upcoming events, activities, and all around campus life things.
  • Canaday Math & Computer Science Club (CMCS) Events Chair – The Canaday Math & Computer Science Club (CMCS) is the organization that is student-run and connects students within my department and those interested in activities and events run by my department. As the Events Chair, I got to decorate the board for CMCS within my department’s Common Area and connect students in my department through some fun events.
  • First Year Experience (FYE) Student Assistant – This was my second year serving as a student assistant for the First Year Experience Freshmen-only course with the same ladies from the Alumnae House. This time around, my Lil’s Lelia and Addy were in my class which was super fun! I also got to send out weekly email updates and I made a guide to share with my students and others assisting the same course, in order to help Freshmen adapt and adjust to Meredith College and life in Raleigh.
  • Angels for Disability Advocacy (ADA) Vice President – My best friend Laurie is President of Angels for Disability Advocacy (ADA). This amazing organization brings about disability advocacy and awareness across campus and beyond. It was fun to be Laurie’s right hand woman and also interview other fellow officers for roles for the following year.
  • Freshmen Student Adviser (SA) – This was my second year serving as a Freshmen Student Adviser (SA). My Junior year, I got a great group of ladies who were interested in pursuing a STEM degree which was super fun and I had only 5 girls. I loved getting to show them around and have a much smaller group!
Move-in day to welcome in the Class of 2023 with my fellow Freshmen Student Advisers!
Move-in day with my good friend Chandler!
Honor Code ceremony with my advising group.
RHA training during orientation.
Post-Pancakes at 11 (an RHA-hosted event) with my fellow RHA Executive Board members and advisers.
Our final Scholar’s Day event is planned with my good friends Kaylee and Lexie.

Senior Year

Post-Class Day with my good friends Maureen, Miranda, Nat, Allison, Lexie, Sophie, Kaylee, Julia, and Chandler!
  • Class of 2021 Fundraising Chair – One of my favorite parts of this odd Senior year was getting to serve as my class’s Fundraising Chair. I planned fundraisers at a local Chick-Fil-A, three t-shirt fundraisers, and one mask fundraiser. They were all a blast to do and a great way to connect with my classmates and others across campus. I have loved receiving adorable t-shirts over the years, so it was super rewarding to be behind the scenes allowing for others to receive some t-shirts, too!
  • Residents Housing Association Publicity Chair – Just like my Junior year, I continued to run RHA’s social media pages. This time around, most of my posts were about COVID-19 safety, since this year was mostly virtual. I also had a Co-Chair which lessened my role’s work load and she was super sweet and it was super nice, too.
  • Angels for Disability Advocacy (ADA) Vice President – My best friend Laurie was and still is the President for Angels for Disability Advocacy (ADA). It was super fun to be able to work alongside her in planning some super cool and fun events for ADA (all virtual, too!). We also coordinated an adorable t-shirt fundraiser and my roommate Sophie who was the Treasurer and I planned a panel event with her Big Sis Briana, as well!
  • Canaday Math & Computer Science Club (CMCS) President – Since being CMCS’s Events Chair, I decided to move up the ladder and become the organization’s President. In this role, I was able to connect a ton of my department to one another even during these unprecedented times. I planned a virtual panel with Meredith women who are STEM alumnae that had over 80 people come to on Zoom with other STEM-oriented organizations. I, then, joined forces with those organizations again for a STEM Trivia Night in honor of Pi Day (March 14) and an informal Q&A with the Chief Information Officer of SONOS Ruth Sleeter. Throughout this entire year as the CMCS President, I have thoroughly enjoyed my role and will miss it alongside my organization’s adviser Dr. Andreae!
  • First Year Experience (FYE) Student Assistant – My final year as a First Year Experience Student Assistant! This year, I served as a Student Assistant for a tiny Honors-only seminar with my Honors Adviser. It was super fun and special for each of our girls. I also loved that I got to individualize each of the girl’s experiences in the class, in order to best help them and what they’re interested in doing while at Meredith.
  • Freshmen Student Adviser – Also my final year as a Freshmen Student Adviser! I had a group of four lovely ladies in the Honors Program, each of which I truly bonded with. It was such a special group, despite having to meet mostly on Zoom. Such a great group to wrap up my Student Advising time at Meredith, too.
  • Honors Program Spring 2022 Trip Planning Committee Chair – Since having to move the Fall 2020 trip to Asheville, North Carolina to Spring 2022, I got to do some market research on making a COVID-19 safe and friendly trip for my Honors classmates to come. At the same time, I got to be apart of the decision-making process for this trip to making it a Spring 2022 trip and handing off my role as Chair to my good friend Hannah.
  • Study Abroad Peer Ambassador – I was fortunate enough to be able to study abroad in Summer 2018 in both Tuscany, Italy and London, England and Summer 2019 in San Ignacio, Belize. So, I decided to become a Study Abroad Peer Ambassador in order to mentor other students who want to study abroad, too, and provide them with hope that we will be able to travel again and that they can despite COVID-19 slowing down our travels and especially those international adventures.
  • Honors Program T-Shirt Subcommittee Chair – Every year, the Honors Program designs and sells an Honors Program t-shirt. This year, I got to chair the subcommittee that sold and designed that shirt. This role allowed me to combine my Fundraising Chair skillset for my Class with my love for the Honors Program. It was also a blast to be able to meet with and get to know underclassmen in the Honors Program!
  • Class Day Tri-Chair – Class Day is one of the many traditions (events) at Meredith College. Class Day is an event to honor the graduating class each year and their Little Sis Class (Class of 2023) makes numerals out of ivy and daisies in the class year numerals to honor their Big Sis Class (aka my Class – Class of 2021). I got to plan this event as one of the Senior Tri-Chairs with my friends Maggie and Miranda. My major role was coordinating the Class Day Fundraiser which was a t-shirt and mask. I also got to plan a lot of other event aspects, such as speaking at the event and recruiting speakers, coordinating with my Little Sis class, and much more. This event was a blast and it was such an honor to chair a Meredith tradition, too!!!
  • Honors Committee Member At-Large – As an active member of the Honors Program, I was offered a seat on the Honors Committee as a Member at Large. It was super fun to be able to help make decisions about the Honors Program as a whole with other students and professors who are also apart of it.
Welcoming in the Class of 2024 in COVID-19-safe fashion with my friend Karli!
Post-Zoom Freshmen Student Adviser training with my good friends Miranda, Chandler, and Julia.
Serving as a Marshall for the belated Class of 2020 graduation ceremonies to get ready for Class Day with my Trip-Chairs Maggie and Miranda!
The best part of being a Class of 2020 Marshall?! Getting to see my friends from the Class of 2020 such as my Math major friend Val!
My good friend Alanna was a Class Day and graduation Marshall for my Class Day and it was so special to have her at both!!!
Post-Class Day with my amazing Tri-Chairs Miranda and Maggie!
Obligatory friend group picture after a successful Class Day with Lexie, Sophie, Kaylee, Julia, and Chandler!

It has been such a blessing to be able to serve as a leader and officer in many different ways on Meredith’s campus. While I will miss being able to serve in the capacities that I have throughout my time at Meredith, I look forward to the many ways that I will be able to contribute to the world that we live in moving forward in my post-graduation life. Here’s to many more years of overcommitment!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Why I Lived on Campus All Four Years of College

When it comes to deciding where to live in college, it can be pretty daunting. One of the best decisions that I made was to live on my college campus all four years of my college experience. I lived in a dorm for two years and then an on-campus apartment for the next two years. So, I will be sharing today why I decided to live right on campus throughout my college years!

Before I dig into the reasons as to why I chose to live on campus all four years of my college experience, I want to make a few remarks. Everyone has their own decisions to make when it comes to making that decision. For me personally, it was best for me to live on campus for all four years of my college experience. However, that may not be the best decision for someone else. While it was the best way for me to go, it may not be for someone else.

Proximity to Campus Life & Classes

It is always super nice to be able to roll out of bed and be in class 5 minutes later without any worry of being there late! I have found the proximity of living on campus to be great not only for getting to class but also for being in the midst of all of the robust campus life fun. The easy walk to be able to simply get to class without needing a car or to an on-campus event is pretty great. Not to mention, having free food at the dining hall is pretty nice at times too, even when it may not be the best. When I lived in the dorms, I could easily eat there whenever I wanted to on a meal plan, but I chose not to once I moved to my on-campus apartment. I have been able to meet and see so many people within my college campus that I would not have been able to meet and see if it wasn’t for living on campus!

Safety

One of the biggest reasons that I decided to live on campus was for the safety aspect. My college is pretty small and requires that people check with the security guard at the main gates before coming in. There are also other security restrictions, like automatic locks on all the doors, that allow for me to feel extra safe. Something that I feel I would not have as much living off campus.

Living with Classmates

As someone who is about to graduate from college, I have loved being able to live right next door and across the hall from all of my friends and classmates. Whether it be a dorm or an on-campus apartment, it is so nice to be right then and there with all of my friends, too. Once I graduate, I won’t be able to walk across the hall to see my friends, so I am glad I got to enjoy this perk of on-campus living while I could!

Through it all, living on campus has been extremely convenient for me! Whether it be an easy breeze walk to class, quick access to meals, or close proximity to everything on my college campus, having a place to call my own right beyond the gates of my second home has been oh so sweet!

XOXO – Katie <3

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A List of All of the College Classes that I Took

As a soon-to-be college graduate, I decided that I would take y’all on a trip through memory lane. Today, I am rounding up all of the college courses that I took as an Honors Student with a Mathematics degree and minors in Statistics, Data Science, and Website Development. When I started at Meredith, I had NO clue what I was going to study, but here we are today. Things do work out and plans do change, but in the end you are meant to be right where you are for where you will be. Time will tell!!!

Fall 2017:

  • Honors English 111 – Pretty much the college version of introductory English. I took this class as apart of my Honors curriculum and was in an Honors-only section with others in my program. I met some of my best friends in this class. Our professor would put our writing errors on the board anonymously and everyone would critique them and we all hated it, so our bonds grew during those trying times!
  • Calculus 1 – I took this class 5 days a week and it was a four-credit hour course. My professor was a male professor who was all about women’s empowerment which was amazing. I also overslept my final in this class, but luckily my professor was super understanding with it all and I ended up successfully taking my final exam.
  • Biblical Literature – My professor brought her one-eyed Yorkie Frankie to class all the time and it was amazing. Despite not knowing much about the Bible, I did really well in this class and was willing to learn. I thought I would fail because I’m not very knowledgable on the Bible!
  • History in the 20th Century – I loved this class and my professor – she truly broke down the history and shed light on the populations that were most adversely affected in our world then and now. It was really powerful and so important to know, too.
  • First Year Experience – This was a Freshmen-only class that oriented Freshmen at Meredith with college life there and living in Raleigh. I loved this class and working and mentoring other college Freshmen that I actually assisted it my Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years!!!
  • French 3 – My high school French teacher literally taught me NOTHING, so I was shocked when I tested into French 3 in college. French 3 was the highest level of French needed for the general education requirement. I was so nervous I would be behind in that class, but my professor was so generous as everyone in the class turned out to be too.

Spring 2018:

  • English 200 – I took this class with one of my all-time favorite professors that is not in the Math & Computer Science Department: Dr. Walton. Dr. Walton is a Shakespeare expert, so we of course read some Shakespeare in class! The theme that he chose for our class throughout the semester was sisterhood and I even remember writing a paper on the Meredith College sisterhood in his class. As someone who only has a biological brother, I loved getting to embrace my sisters at Meredith. I also really enjoyed getting to know Dr. Walton, too.
  • Beginning Programming – Initially, I wanted to be a Computer Science major, but I did not do too hot in this class the first time around. So, I retook it my Junior year and my passion for website development and coding actually began to grow. It just wasn’t my Freshmen year!
  • Calculus 2 – My roommate Sophie and I actually became good friends in this class. We sat next to each other the entire semester and it was amazing. I also had a bunch of my fellow Math major friends and sisters in this class and I got to know them better in it all semester which was amazing.
  • Self Defense – This was 1/2 of my 8am classes in college. It was such a struggle to get up, despite it only being offered for the second half of the semester! The skills taught in this class were super valuable, and I wish I remembered them and think I would if it wasn’t at 8am that I learned it all.
  • Christian Thought – For my Ethics general education requirement, I took a course on applying Christian thought to societal topics in today’s world – think LGBTQ+ rights, abortion, etc. It was very interesting and empowering. It was all about social change and looking beyond out own worlds.

Summer 2018 – Italy:

  • Arts & Artifacts Italy Edition – This course was all about learning about Italian Life and Culture in Italy. We visited the towns of Anghiari, Arezzo, and Siena in Tuscany along with Florence. Pretty much the highlight of this course was learning how to navigate life in Italy independently and writing about our educational experiences.
  • Nonverbal Communication – This class was super cool to take, especially in Italy! My professor taught us some mind-blowing facts that make total sense about nonverbal communication in our world in both the United States and abroad. It is super neat to know how nonverbal communication all plays into how we live our lives wherever we live.
  • Yoga – Yoga was taught by a top blogger in Italy for Yoga who just happened to be living right by the Tuscan town that I studied abroad in. So, Meredith College brought her in to teach us all yoga. Learning the origins of yoga and doing it in Italy was such a neat experience!

Summer 2018 – England:

  • Arts & Artifacts England Edition – Like the course that I took in Italy, this course was all about life and culture in England. As apart of this course, we were required to go visit different sights all across London and in Europe. We went to go see a church service at Westminster Abbey (where Prince William and Kate Middleton got married!) which was extremely neat and we were required to visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (where Princess Diana got married!), Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and Windsor Castle (where Harry and Meghan got married!).
  • Shakespeare’s Theatre – This course was taught by Dr. Walton as well. In this class, we actually saw Shakespeare plays all across London and in Bath, England as well as Stratford-upon-Avon, England. It was a super fun time and getting to see Dr. Walton’s passion for Shakespeare where it all began grew mine even more.

Fall 2018:

  • The Life of Migrant Farmworkers – I took this Honors-only class as a part of my Honors curriculum. This class was taught by a Spanish professor who had a service focus and is such an awesome person, too. We learned all about the lives of migrant farmworkers in the United States and how they are extremely undervalued and undercooked in our world today.
  • Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning – This class was pretty much the gateway to theoretical math that goes over most people’s heads – including my own. I met a lot of my Math major classmates in this class that were not in my Calculus 2 class the prior semester.
  • Visual Merchandising – I took this class at the point of where I thought I would be a Fashion Merchandising and Math double major. However, that changed and that is OKAY! For this class, I got to create store displays with my friend Briana at two stores in a nearby shopping center and model clothing for a fashion show put on by my classmates and I in this course.
  • Calculus 3 – This class is where I learned about 3-D graphs which was interesting. It was pretty much calculus on steroids, but all super interesting.

Spring 2019:

  • Linear Algebra – This class was all about matrices and taught by my now Academic Advisor who then helped me to declare my major. In this class is where I learned my true potential as a Math major!
  • Math Seminar – Math seminar was pretty much a course about careers in Mathematics for Math majors. I recall feeling so nervous, as I had no idea what I wanted to do or if I even wanted to stick out with a Math degree. However, my friends helped me realize that I could and that I belonged when I didn’t think I did.
  • Introduction to Statistics for Math Majors – Yes, my school offered a Math majors-only Statistics lecture. This course is where I met my Thesis Advisor and started to collaborate with him on Honors projects. My passion for statistics and analytics also grew from this course!
  • Principles of Sociology – I took this class with my friend Lexie as a part of our General Education requirement. It was an interesting course to say the least. However, I think I drove my professor crazy with my obsession with weddings whenever she brought up how she didn’t like them!
  • Environmental Policy – I took this class simply for fun! In here, I got to learn all about environmental policy within the political world and how every United States President has done when it came to their environmental policy. I also did a project on corn in this class, so that was fun too.
  • Principles of Marketing – I LOVED this class! My passions for business and marketing only grew when taking this course. I loved it because I learned all about people and their desires and what drives them when purchasing products as consumers. I almost declared a Marketing minor, but I did not have the room too.

Summer 2019 – Belize:

  • Arts & Artifacts Belize Edition – Like in Italy and England, this class was all about Belize. We visited the Belize Zoo, Lamanai Mayan Ruins, and the Barton Creek Cave. A big emphasis of the course was helping to volunteer at a local school. There was also a strong emphasis placed on the history of Belize and how its history shaped it into the nation that it is today.
  • Research – Yes, I did my first-ever research project in Belize. I interviewed 6-8 teachers in Belize on teaching students with disabilities, in order to gain insight into special education in the rainforest region of Cayo that I was living and studying abroad in. It was really insightful and impactful!

Fall 2019:

  • Abstract Algebra – This is one of the most challenging math courses offered. Little did I know, I would actually enjoy Abstract Algebra. Luckily, I also had many of my fellow Math major friends in that class, too.
  • Probability & Statistics – As apart of my Statistics minor, I took this course to learn more about probability within statistics.
  • Advertising and Sales Promotion – When I was thinking I could still acquire a Marketing minor, I took this course. It was all about advertising products and ignited my passion for consumer insight surveys – hence why I do annual reader surveys here on The Pink Chickadee.
  • Pilates – Yes, I took Pilates with my good friend Hannah. It was super fun and relaxing since we both had extremely stressful semesters. I can never forget when Hannah and I had to each “instruct” the class on a Pilates exercise and we couldn’t stop laughing at each other the entire time!
  • Beginning Programming – This was the semester that I retook Beginning Programming in Java and feel in love with programming!

Spring 2020:

  • Object Oriented Programming – This class was the 2nd level of Beginning Programming. It was challenging but also really cool!
  • Introduction to Data Analysis – After wanting to go into data analytics for quite some time, I was extremely excited when my academic advisor told me that our department would be offering a class in it! We learned JMP software which was fun. My class had only five of us in it which allowed for a unique bond between us all as we were the guinea pigs. My passion for the subject of data analytics only grew from here. Hence, my minor in Data Science!
  • Introduction to Biology – I had to take Biology lecture as apart of my general education and Honors requirements.
  • Biology Lab for Honors – Along with my Biology lecture, I had to take a Biology Lab which was specifically for Honors students and only for Honors students.
  • Bayesian Statistics – This course was a special topics in statistics course that I took for my minor in Statistics. It was super cool as I got to learn an entire world of probability that isn’t really taught in the introductory level Statistics courses. It was also taught by my Thesis Advisor!
  • Mathematical Modeling – I loved this class! I got to learn MATLAB and create some really cool mathematical models to predict future trends and data. We created math models in a variety of disciplines, including event planning. My favorite part was getting to create a math model on the product life cycle of Jack Rogers sandals for my final project.
  • Databases – This was my 2/2 8am classes here at Meredith. It was a 1 credit class that met for 3 weeks and I learned how to create and use databases in Microsoft Access. A lot of my friends were in there, which made it super fun!

Summer 2020:

  • Introduction to Website Development – This class is where I learned how to code in HTML and CSS. It also grew my passion for website development and thus allowed me to declare my third minor in Website Development. I also used the skills that I learned in this class to code this amazing site that you are on now!

Fall 2020:

  • Website Design and Databases – This is the second level of Introduction to Website Development. I got to learn JavaScript, JQuery, PHP, and SQL. My passion for website development only grew more from there!
  • Statistics 2 – Pretty much the second level of Statistics 1. It was pretty basic but also fun because I got to analyze data on this site for my final project.
  • Principles of Data Science – The second level of Introduction to Data Analysis. I got to learn R in this class and fell head over heels for R and its uses. Only 2 of my 4 classmates were in this class with me and our bonds grew a ton that semester. It was a really fun and special class that was also filled with a ton off empowerment!
  • Honors Thesis in Mathematics – I also started my Honors Thesis this semester which was amazing. I have been working alongside my Thesis Advisor all year long. In the Fall, I learned how to use Python and learned about different time series forecasting and machine learning models.
  • Career Development – This was a 1-credit course taught by two lovely ladies in the Office of Career Planning here at Meredith. It was all about female empowerment when it came to searching for a job and deciding what to do in your post-graduate life. It was a class that was for ME and my development which was refreshing.
  • Fitness Fusion – I took this online fitness course and did workouts in Yoga, Strength Training, Cardio Dance, and something else that I forget LOL!

Spring 2021:

  • Honors Thesis in Mathematics – This Spring semester, I wrapped up my Honors Thesis. In the Math Department, Honors Theses take a year to complete so I was right on track. This semester, I applied concepts learned the past Fall 2020 semester and wrote it all up in the form of a paper and presented it all too. It has been incredible to watch it all come together!
  • Discrete Mathematics – I am taking this class for my Website Development minor and it is pretty much an introduction to theoretical math for Computer Science majors.
  • History of Pandemics – This course is an Honors-only section on the history of pandemics in our world. Terrifyingly enough, there have been pandemics which have occurred once every century since at least the 1600’s. It is such an eye-opening class and an important reminder.
  • Website Development Special Study – Currently, I am working alongside my website development professor to create my own site using the concepts that I learned in my other website development courses and more. It has been super cool!
  • Regression – This is the final class that I have with my Thesis advisor. I have had him for every semester since Spring 2019 and my Thesis, too. It’s bittersweet! In this class, we are using R which I love and learning ALL about regression which is a super fun topic.
  • Public Speaking – The theme of this class is female empowerment and let me tell y’all it is AMAZING! My professor is all about uplifting everyone and her energy is truly contagious. It’s been such a beautiful class and a great final in-person undergraduate class to have!!!

Honestly, going through all of my college courses definitely brought back ALL the feels. It was also super fun to take a walk through memory lane, too. So many memories come from inside the classroom, believe it or not!

XOXO – Katie <3

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It’s Been 13 Months Since COVID-19 Began

It’s early March 2020 and I am driving up to the Washington, DC area with my friend Lexie. We are visiting the city for our Spring Break. My biggest worry is not hitting the Washington, DC traffic – one of the worst traffic areas in the country. At that time, life appeared to be carefree, fun, and filled with things that were ordinary in our pre-pandemic world. Flash forward to April 2021 and we are 13 months into the coronavirus pandemic and the precautions that come with living in it. Life has become much more uncertain than we thought we could ever imagine and many of us have learned to cope with it. At the same time, life has been filled with grief and sadness over missing things that we enjoyed and could easily do in the pre-pandemic world. Most importantly, we have come together and united to support one another, as we all are going through the same things during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have discovered the silver linings and the good that has come out of the pandemic rather than focusing on the bad. We miss our pre-pandemic world, yet there is hope on the horizons and it will come again before we know it.

On March 11, 2020, I remember being on my Spring Break and flying from Washington, DC to Johnson City, Tennessee. I had a layover in Charlotte, North Carolina. I boarded a packed flight from Washington, DC to Charlotte and brought my wipes out of worry but didn’t wear a mask *it feels so weird at this point not to wear a mask in public especially on a plane*. I was nervous, but I knew I would be fine. As I boarded a much smaller yet still packed flight from Charlotte to Johnson City, I remember reading on the news that the coronavirus was declared as a pandemic and having to Google the word “pandemic”. As I sat on the flight, I did my typical plane ride activity of napping as I admire the airplane views of the Appalachian Mountains from up above. When I woke up, I heard the woman in front of me emphasize the importance of staying at home and not leaving the house – that was the first time that I had ever heard of that concept. I was going on vacation to visit a friend and hit Tennessee for the first-time ever. There was no way that I was even thinking of the idea of practically staying at home for an unforeseeable future.

As I got to Tennessee, I remember hearing that all of the colleges around me in North Carolina were closing for the next 2 weeks. NC State University, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and East Carolina University were some of the many schools that were canceling classes for the coming weeks. As someone who had had a not so great semester that Spring 2020 semester, I was hoping that Meredith College would, too. I was so nervous hoping that Meredith would yet they did not. However, the next day it was announced that we were getting an extended Spring Break. Even though there was so much worry about COVID-19, I was still going about my days and enjoying my Tennessee adventure with my friend and her family. Many others were doing the same thing.

With the number of days that I was spending in Tennessee increasing, the number of coronavirus fears and precautions that we would take soon were also coming into play. Social distancing was becoming a growingly popular term along with the idea of simply staying at home. I still enjoyed my Tennessee trip mask-less and without maintaining social distance, but my worries were beginning to grow. It was, then, decided that my parents would come get me from Tennessee a few days later and I would be driving back home with them to Virginia. We made a pit stop at Meredith College to grab some of my things. I remember my mind being filled with a huge cloud full of sadness and worry. While I was hoping I would come back by the end of the Spring 2020 semester, I knew that there was a strong possibility that I would not.

When I made it home, I went INSANE. I wanted to know how long this new and temporary normal would last. I immediately disliked the idea of staying at home 24/7 – it was stressful and it kept me restless. With the growing number of stay at home orders across the United States, I began to be filled with anger at the idea of missing out on things due to the pandemic. I hated the idea of social distancing – I am a very social person – and not being able to go anywhere and have fun like I used to. But, COVID-19 had its ways. During this time, events at Meredith College for the coming Fall 2020 semester were being moved to an all virtual format. As a Club President for an organization on my college campus, I was asked along with other Club Presidents to move all of our events and meetings to an all virtual platform for the Fall 2020 semester. My anger and frustrations only began to worsen. Overtime, I learned to adapt to the changes of the pandemic and not let my sadness and grief and anger define my days. My focus changed and I started to thrive, even during the pandemic and stay at home orders.

As the summer months approached, I started to see others again and do things which made me happy. I started to go out to eat again with friends and family, take trips to the beach, and go on hikes. I got to explore a lot of my local area and it super great to be able to do so. The summer months allowed us all to do things and feel some sort of normalcy again despite COVID-19. I was happy and I enjoyed feeling even a small dose of normalcy in these crazy times.

August 2020 was the month that I moved back to Meredith College to finish up my Senior year. Although my Senior year has looked very different than all of my other college years, I am still very grateful to be able to have 3.5 great years filled with memories and great moments in what is known as the “typical college experience”. When I got back to Meredith, I was simply just happy to be there again. It had been a good 5 months since I was living there and it was really nice to be back. I did not realize how much I missed my apartment, campus, cooking my own meals, and the simple life of living in Raleigh at Meredith until I was there again.

Classes have looked very different since COVID-19 began. Everyone is required to wear a mask and the classrooms are laid out to allow for us all to maintain our social distance. With Senior year looking so different, it has been sad. I have also felt grateful that I am still able to simply be there at Meredith and in Raleigh, rather than at home. Even though I do not see as many people on a given day as I used to thanks to Zoom classes and safety precautions, I am still extremely grateful to see those that I get to see, whether in passing, chatting, or in the classroom. Consequentially, I have felt sad about missing out on the social aspect of my Senior year of college. I have missed being able to simply go to a restaurant without any worries and the same goes for pretty much every social event. My classmates have too. It has been hard for us all – we have all grieved a ton and have felt all the feels. But, we have done it together, in-person and in-spirit.

While times have been tough due to COVID-19, I have appreciated the bond that I share with others through this time. Every other college student has had to spend 13 months of their college career on Zoom for the majority of it – not just myself. In fact, my friends in the Class of 2020 had to graduate through Zoom. Although Meredith College is hosting an in-person graduation for the Class of 2020, I know many other schools that are not, which breaks my heart for them. Everyone has had to loss a lot from the coronavirus pandemic, whether or not we realize it. For myself, it has been the 21st Birthday of my dreams with a massive dinner and party which had to be done over Zoom along with the remainder of my “typical college experience”. Even though it is sad to lose a lot from COVID-19, we all have and we can all go through the grief of it all together.

There are so many silver linings with the pandemic. I feel that we are able to come together like never before. Even though Zoom really sucks at times, it has been a great benefit in many ways. If I am sick, I can Zoom into class or work and not stress about missing it, if I want to watch a speaker who lives in a city that is different than my own then I can from the comfort of my own couch, and I have access to virtual networks via social media to connect with people from practically everywhere. If it was not for COVID-19, I would not have been able to connect with others like I have been.

Most importantly, I feel very lucky compared to many others over the past 13 months. I have a family that has been able to maintain financial stability throughout this time frame. I have been able to have access to an education and had it financed. I am also going into a career field that is growing, despite many industries that are not. I have also not gotten sick during this time. I have been vaccinated, too. So many others have not had all of that. It is important to remember the blessings that we have and be thankful for them.

Since boarding a flight to Tennessee, my life has flipped upside down and been spun around quite a few times. However, my life would not have been the same if it wasn’t. I have consistently wondered what my life would have been like if COVID-19 did not transform our world like it has. Would we have the networks in place that we already have? Would we be on a path to bridging a more diverse and inclusive society in our beautiful world? Would I have worked on myself as much as I did and do now? Would we grow in the ways that we have since March 2020? Would we be the people that we are today and will be the people that we are to be tomorrow? Who knows.

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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