New Year, New Site!

This blogging thing has really taken off for me! I love posting on topics I find important or fun.

The link to my new blog is: http://joelyatchison.wix.com/collegegirlspearls

After posting to social media about updating my old blog page, my sweet cousin Megan asked if she could help and make a new site for me. Of course I accepted and she created the page you see before you! I am in LOVE with the new look and could not be happier that it has come at the perfect time, a NEW year and that I will be able to start on my Wednesday posting dates again.

I will work hard to post weekly, but I am a college student first so I may miss a few posts or be late. However, I am doing my best to keep things up and be super organized. That was in fact one of my goals for the year, organization.

Quick update on what is happening: 

I am starting my Spring semester at UF today and am stoked about my courses. I have Biology for Non-Majors, Popular Music in American History, Statistics, and Spanish. I actually like all the subjects and can not wait to start. Also, I am happily still at Ulta. I got to take 2 weeks off to spend the holidays with my favorite group of people in the world, my family, but am so happy to be back. I love my job!

I also used one of my favorite Christmas gifts for the first time last night, my crockpot!! I made monkey bread from a recipe I found on Pinterest. It was super simple and I made it in the wee hours of the morning, since I am always up at 3 am and it was done for breakfast this morning. And just incase you were wondering it goes great with coffee! The perfect way to statr off this chilly morning in Gainesville.

Here is the link to the reciepe for anyone interested: 

http://www.tammileetips.com/2013/03/crock-pot-monkey-bread/

Hope you all love the new site as much as I do, and let me know if there is anything you would like to see posted about!

xoxo, 

Joels

Keep Going!

Motivation is something not all college kids seem to have, especially since it is coming to the end of the semester. However, it is crucial to keep pushing through the moments of fatigue, insecurity, and exhaustion.  Here are some of the quotes I find helpful to keep me positive, and keep me going!

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."- Philippians 4:13

Mistakes are proof that you are trying.

When you feel like quitting, think about why you started.

Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss you will lad among the stars.

Drink some coffee. Put some gangster rap on. And handle it.

" You have brains in your head. You have feet in you shoes. You cans steer yourself any direction you chose."- Dr. Seuss

Nothing is impossible. The word itself says I'm possible.

Let go and let God.

"Don't worry about being successful but work towards being significant and the success will naturally follow."- Opera Winfrey

Last but not least:

Better Together

This week has been full of studying! Midterms and exam galore here at UF.

Over the summer I wrote a post about studying and how it can be beneficial to study either in a group or by yourself. I focused mainly on self study habits, but now want to touch upon group studying and its benefits.

Recently classes have been getting tougher and everyone is getting that burned out feel. However, now is not the time to slack off and take it easy. Now is the time to buckle down and focus on your academics, but you may need some reinforcements. When making study groups be mindful to:

1. Get in a group with people you like- Studying with people you know can be a plus because they are easier to talk to and easier to keep in contact with.

2. Plan when to meet before hand- Nothing is worse than a really last minute study group plan when only 1/2 the group actually shows. Make a group text, friend each other on Facebook, or pick a person who is in charge of letting everyone know what the plans are. Pick a spot and time that works for everyone, or at least a majority of the group.

3. Stay focused- Studying with a group can be dangerous in the sense that you all want to share and can go off topic at the drop of a hat. By relating back to the topic constantly you can prevent wasted time.

4. Talk through terms and concepts by making examples- Relate what you are talking about to what you know. For example, my study group for social psychology relates the terms to  fraternity examples because it is something we are all familiar with, and can remember easier than possible examples form the book or a lengthy definition.

5. Make flash cards- Quizzing each other on terms can be a quick and fun way to learn material or review old material quickly.

6. Take it seriously, but not too seriously- You want to make sure that you are getting the material down, but don't freak out if you start talking about weekend plans. These are your friends so sidde conversations are bound to come up.

Cooking in College

Eating in a dorm is hard! You don't have your own kitchen, or a normal size fridge to be able to prepare meals like you could when you lived at home. You also don't want to eat microwave mac and cheese for 4 years, so here are some tips of how to use what you have and prepare meals in a dorm.

If you have a communal kitchen, which most dorms have, then use it for sure. However, make sure that you go when it isn't as busy so that you know you'll have the time to cook what you need. I like to prep my meals for the week on Sunday night after I do my weekly grocery run, and the kitchen is usually bare of people. 

What I like to make:
Chicken: I am definitely not a vegetarian! Chicken is cheap and easy to make and can be prepared many different ways. I boil my chicken for around 20 min, or until there is no more pink. 
From there you can make it BBQ chicken, by baking with BBQ sauce or just marinating it for a few hours then heating up. 
I also love salsa chicken. Again, boil the chicken then top with salsa and cheese. 
You can buy chicken strips and shake and bake them as well.

Pasta: This is a staple because it is easy and can be stored for a while in my fridge. 
I cook my pasta for about 10-13 mins depending on the type and how much I am making. 
After it is cooked I divide it into microwave containers and then can add sauce and heat when I am ready.
Adding meat is also an option, such as chicken or beef.

Keep fruit: I love fruit and keep sliced strawberries, honeydew, or whatever fruit is in season in my fridge every week; along with bananas. I get my love of bananas from my dad and eat them almost everyday, but also use them in my overnight oats.

Overnight Oats: These things are the best and so simple and filling. 
You take 4 oz of cooking oats and put them in a cup with a lid. (I love mason jars because they tell you how many ounces you have filled on the side, plus are super cute)
Then add 4 oz of almond milk, regular milk, water, or whatever you like. (I use Silk Vanilla Almond Milk)
You seal the cup or jar and let them sit in your fridge overnight.
In the morning you add whatever you like to flavor them.
I love using half of a mushed up banana, with coconut extract, and a little bit of cocoa powder. I have also used strawberries, almond butter, peanut butter, shredded coconut, and blueberries. 
Basically use what you like to flavor them!
You can also eat them cold or hot. I prefer mine cold, but heating won't mess anything up.

These are just some suggestions of how to survive in college, but eat actual food.

Don't be Stressin'

First off, sorry for not posting last week. I had the opportunity to go home for the weekend and spend time with my family and friends, so I wanted to make sure I did all my readings and homework before I left. This meant skipping writing a post as well as skipping a few hours of sleep, but now onto this weeks post!

As a part of one of the grants I received I am required to go to workshops presented by the university. This week I went to one on stress management and found it super helpful, especially being a first year student. The presenter spoke on the effects that stress can cause on your physical body such as tightening of the chest, headaches, tension in the shoulders, etc. Every person is different. In the back of my mind I knew this was true, but once she spoke about it I found myself pondering what ways my body reacts to stress. For me personally my chest tightens, I feel anxious, and get headaches. 

However, there are many ways to reduce stress, but it never fully goes away; usually it gets replaced by another stressor. Some ways to reduce stress is to face it in a tactful way. I personally choose to make a todo list and make things off as I go. This way I know what I need to do and how much I have todo. My planner, as if you couldn't tell from my earlier post is my life and a great way for me to keep up with my lists. Others the presenter advised were to workout or get physical activity in one way or another, take fun breaks, breath, and face one thing at a time not thinking of what is to come, so not to distract your attention.

Focusing on one task at a time may seem obvious, but the way she explained it put it into perspective. She compared our attention to that of a new puppy, we go from one thing to another then back and forth not really getting as much done as we could if we focused little by little. For example, if you are reading for a class and have 15 pages, take it one page at a time, don't think of all the other classes you have t read for or you will miss it. Train the puppy mindedness to be in control.

Taking time for you was another great suggestion. After focusing on your work, or other people for extended periods of time take time to do something you like. Go watch movie on Netflix, take a walk, get coffee. This will help you want to get your tasks don because you are getting "rewarded", but also gives you a break in the middle allowing you to redirect your thoughts.

Stress is a part of life, but can be manageable, you just need to know how to handle it!

Dorm Sweet Dorm

Dorm rooms can be white cell blocks for some people, or a blank canvas for others. I chose to view my room as a blank canvas that needed a personal touch! The keys to making a dorm feel more like home are:

1. Pick stuff that you like and can like for a long period of time: Bedding, and accessories are not cheap, so make sure you love what your picking and that it matches your taste. Personally I went for a nautical theme of navy, white, yellow, and pops of pink.

2. Make it feel more like home through accessories: To do this I chose a lamp that looks more like one you'd find in a house than in the dorm section of Target. I like the softer light it gives with the 40 watt bulb vs the harsh LED light. A desk organizer is also a good idea so that your desk isn;t cluttered with papers pencils, folder,books, ect. Baskets are another great way to get storage, but declutter your surface areas. Accent pieces like art work and my wooden A make it feel more like a home than a dorm, since I'll be here for a year.

3. Put up pictures: Bring pictures of your friends and family. Mine are on a bulletin board right on my desk, so that when I look up I smile and see familiar faces.

4. Bring a rug: Some dorms are tile, and others carpet, but either way it's nice to have a rug right by your bed. I have tile in my dorm, so this helps me not have to touch cold tile to my feet first thing when I wake up. Plus it helps pull my color scheme together.

5. Patterns don't have to match: Don't think everything has to be matchy matchy, some of the best designs and outcomes come from mixing and matching patterns.

6. Don't clutter your spaces: In dorms you don't have much space to spread out so make sure you use the space wisely.

Dress for Success

Well it has officially begun, Fall term is here!! With new beginnings happening it is important to take appearance into consideration. Appearance isn't everything, but it does offer a look at who you are as a person at a glance. Professors, fellow classmates, and passers by will be making assumptions about you based on the way you dress and are put together. Here are some tips to help make the best impression on your first week.

1. Dress well your first week: Wear clothes you re comfortable in, but also are clean, crisp and appropriate of making a first impression. You don't want to dress like a slob your first week when professors are getting to know you. Stand out as the one person who is well ut together.

2. Save the yogas for next week: Continue dressing well until you have seen the professor at least twice, then break out the yogas and t-shirts!

3. Wear comfortable shoes: Walking everywhere is crucial in college, so make sure that your feet can hold up.

4. Smell nice: This may seem silly, but some people do tend to smell in classes. You don't want to be the person others avoid! Shower, wear deodorant, maybe even perfume or spray, and always brush your teeth this can also go a long way with first impressions.

I hope these have helped and that your first week back to class is successful!

Que Sera, Sera

Recently I have been thinking about different quotes and their meanings, and this particular one came to mind: "Que Sera, Sera," meaning, "whatever will be, will be." This isn't to say that people should sit around and wait for what they want without putting in work, but rather work for what they want and know that any outcome they get will be because they tried and did all they could to chase what they want.

This is a great quote to live by especially in college. You can't control everything, but you can make the best of any situation or circumstance.  Work for what you want, and the result will be what was meant to happen for you.

Sorry for the shorter post, I am moving into my new dorm this week.

Everything You Own in the Dorm to the Left..

With the end of Summer B being this week and Fall beginning in a few weeks, I thought I'd offer some tips for packing for college.

1. Make a list of items you use EVERYDAY- Over packing is a bad habit of mine, so being honest with yourself and what you know you will use is important.

2. Go through your closet while packing- You can get rid of the excess closet fat you have sitting there as you sort through what to take and what to bring. Places like Goodwill and the Salvation Army are always in need of donations. As for those higher end pieces, you can take them to consignment shops and get a little bit of cash back.

3. Bag your hanging items (this tip was taken from my best friend)- I hate hanging clothes, but know that it needs to be done. Over my summer move I folded everything then went and hung certain pieces (with my bestie's help). She came up with what I think is a genius idea of bagging the clothes you want to hang already hung! Then all you have to do is hang and remove the bag.

4. Condense- I can not stress this enough! It is easier to move 3 bags rather than 5, and it is possible to condense by learning how to fold efficiently. Don't just throw things in a bag, move them around and finagle them until every inch of space is full.

5. Get help- Get help in both the packing and unpacking process. The night before I moved one of my best friends Kelsey came over and helped me finish last minute packing. I had done a lot already, but it was nice to have her help me pick out certain jewelry and clothing since she has great taste. When I unpacked I had the help of my mom, Monica, and older brother. My older brother was the muscle, and Monica, mom, and I were the bag handlers. Having their help made moving go quicker and smoother.

P.S. Sorry the post is late, this is finals week after all!

To Study, or Not to Study?

Let's face it, not many people like to study. However, in college it is a mandatory part of gaining that expensive degree! With distractions of friends, relationships, sports, jobs, and social events it is important to know when to say, "sorry I gotta study". So here are a few of the ways I chose to go about the process. Each person is different and their study habits will be too.

When I get ready to study I like to make sure everything I need is with me. I get distracted easily, so having to grab a pen could turn into a 20 minute excursion to the couch, kitchen, the social media world, etc. Grab a drink that will keep you going such as coffee (my drink of choice), Red Bull, water, anything to keep you energized and focused. Make sure you have pens,pencils, highlighters, notecards, books, laptop, headphones, literally EVERYTHING.

Next pick a place to study. The key to this selection is to pick a space that is comfortable, but not overly comfortable. I know that for me I can not study on my bed! I get too comfortable and end up talking myself into a nap instead. Instead I chose to study at my desk, a table in the library, or even better Starbucks. The change in location make it a better environment for work, not naps. However, you do not want to be uncomfortable when studying either. If you don't work well in highly trafficked areas like Starbucks stick to the library or your desk.

I love music and must have it to concentrate on most tasks. Studies show it can actually help the retention of material as well. I suggest making a playlist of songs that put you in a happier mood, so you will be happier while studying the Civil War or Trigonometry. My study music changes all the time! Last semester I would jam to the Glee soundtracks. Weird, I know, but it got me through and helped me achieve an A on my research paper. This semester is different though; I have found myself drawn to the musical stylings of Nora Jones. Being the hopeless romanic I am as well, Spotify's Wedding Classic playlist has also become more prominent. Spotify has become one of my go to music streaming sites because I can make playlists of songs that I know I'll like even with limited skips. Occasionally there are tasks that music becomes too much of a distraction as well so pure silence is best; it just takes time to know the difference.
Music can put you in the mood to get work DONE!

Deciding whether or not you are an independent or group oriented studier is another key part of the process. Obviously if you have a group project study with a group so you all know the material, but be aware of if this truly helps. I like to study mainly by myself so I retain the information and process at my own pace. Yet I have found that after I study personally, studying in a group setting can better help you comprehend the material and make you look at it in a different light. Again it's a circumstantial process.

Try to avoid distractions!!! I am guilty of this myself, but it is important to limit them. Keep you phone at a distance as not to be checking texts, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Yik Yak, ect. This wastes valuable time and gets your mind focused on things other than the material you are covering. Be cognizant of your distractions and limit them.

Timing is also imperative. My biological clock made me a night owl, and I am definitely no early riser. I like to study in the late afternoon and night. This gives me time after my classes get out to process as well as take a break before I get back into the material. Others may like to continue straight after class, as not to lose anything. Like I said before each person is different.

The question is no longer "to study, or not to study", but "when and how to study".

10 Things To-Do While in College

College is full of opportunities to experience things that will test you limits and remove you from your comfort zone. Back in my hometown I had a few friends who did this for me since I am typically not an extremely adventurous person. Since I moved away I have had to open myself up to trying these things either on my own or with new people. I have decided to share a list of 10 things I think each college student should try at least once in college.

1. Live on campus- I recommend doing this your freshman year; even if only for a semester. This allows you to get to know the campus life! It also allows you to share a room with most likely a stranger. If you're like me and have had your own room your whole life this may be a struggle at first having to learn to accommodate and communicate with your roomie. I got very luck with my roomie this semester and have had no problems AND made a new friend.

2. Go to a football game- Most schools do have football teams, they may not be SEC teams, but football at any college is usually a BIG DEAL. The comradery and rivalry  in the stadium is an intense feeling, but one that is indescribable and that you just have to experience to understand.

3. Tailgate- Drinking does NOT have to be a part of this. However tailgating is a great way to celebrate football season and cheer on the team before the game. Being a former cheerleader myself I am looking forward to showing my Blue and Orange Gator PRIDE!

4. Go to a party- When I say this I am NOT suggesting going to a ragger or kegger type party. If you do that is totally to your digression. When I say party I mean going to a party where you can get together with friends and make new ones in a festive atmosphere. You don't have to drink or go crazy to have a good time!

5. Eat at local restaurants- College does not just offer Chipotle and dinning halls! Every town has its own local gems that are priced for college kids. In Gainesville I have found two so far that I love, Satchels Pizza and Relish (a burger place). I have broadened my pallet to encompass odd new dishes such as a cheeseburger topped with peanut butter and sweet chili relish. For anyone who knows me I like to stick to what I know, but found myself being adventurous one night and found out I loved this crazy combo.

6. Study abroad- I love that college offer this as an option for students to do. It gives everyone an opportunity to travel, while paying mainly the same costs of semesters. I attended a meeting about UF's programs and am looking forward to doing this in the future.

7. Take classes you may not have thought about- Gen-Eds are awesome because you can take courses not related to your major. For example, I am taking a course called Bugs and People (I do not like bugs). Yet I find myself interested in the class and it is helping me achieve a Bio credit. Explore your options before you settle down to a specific major, you never know what's out there, so take advantage of the opportunities.

8. Explore the town- You are not limited to just the campus, explore your surroundings. Take advantage of your college years and go to waterparks, local hot spots, and leave the books behind!

9. Go to the museums and cultural aspects- Most universities offer free admission for students to attend museums, plays, and even concerts. Make sure to keep track and visit these places; it offers you a look into culture and IT'S FREE!! What college kid is going to give up any free activity?

10. Study- It may seem self evident, but studying is what you're in college for. Find unique places on or off campus to study. Group studying is also helpful, but make sure you know what you're talking about and not relying on the group to re-teach you the material. Study by your self. Making time to study each class is important, find which way works best for you. I prefer to study with a coffee in hand and Nora Jones on Spotify in a Starbucks, library, or my desk. (Study tips to come next week)

Timing is Everything!

Time management has to be one of the hardest obstacles to overcome. Juggling all your actives that are preformed on a daily basis as well as the few cute balls each day brings can be difficult, but in many cases planning is KEY.

Taking the time to plan your month, week, and day can all help avoid some stress. Many people use Google Calendar or iCalendar to track their events on their phone, tablets, and laptops. I do use those tools, but I prefer the good ol' written planner. If I ever lost my Vera Bradley planner I would be lost. I keep track of each days events, as well as write notes to  myself to make sure things get done and don't miss anything important. I also love the convince of having a place for emergency contacts, without having to worry that my battery will die.

In college especially it is important to keep a record of everything that is coming up. From classes to football games each day is different. Having a place to keep it all is important, that way when the curve balls are thrown your way you are more likely to be able to handle the pressure.

Being on time is NOT one of the things I'm known for. Waking up late is a daily event, and in high school my friends were always teasing me because I never got there before 7:30. Having a place to write down the times for my classes and appointments has helped a little, and I have not been late to a class ay UF yet (and for me that's a huge deal)! I also set alarms to help me keep track of time for things. I set these alarms for 30 minutes to an hour before I need to leave or wake up, because of my late tendencies. I also suggest setting clocks 5 minutes fast. You may think no big deal, but this puts a little more pep in your step in the morning when you're late to leave the house.

Time management is not only planning, it is taking the time to realize what you can and cannot handle. I am a person who loves to help others, but saying yes all the time has made me crazy in the past. I realized it is okay to say no to things you don't have time to do. Generally people will be appreciative of the fact you Let the project go rather than giving it only partial attention.

However, it is important to set aside time for the important aspects of your day, such as your daily devotional in your Bible, a phone call to your parents, Factimeing family, or even cutting out time for a nap once in a while. Keeping your priorities in check will also help you reduce stress.

Learning how to manage time will not be a one day process, everyday is different s you will be tweaking your routine often.