CL’s Guide to Music for Your Summer Road Trip

If you are headed on a road trip this summer, check out this CL guide that will have you grooving the whole way, with recommendations from road trip mastermind and University of Pittsburgh co-ed Stephanie Pisula.

“Life is a Highway,” Rascal Flatts.

This song is sure to get you in the road trip mood from the very beginning! 

“Summertime,” Kenny Chesney.

A perfect country tune for a sunny summer drive…  

“I Can’t Get Next to You,” The Temptations.

…and an oldie to dry any rain that dampens your road. 

“First Date,” Blink 182.

This rock anthem is sure to liven up any dull scenery. 

“Wannabe,” Spice Girls.

Re-live your childhood along the way with this 90’s favorite. 

“Mine,” Taylor Swift.

 Great beat, great story, this song by the lovely Taylor Swift will keep you going…

“Rockstar,” Nickelback.

…as will this Nickelback classic.

“Shut Up and Drive,” Rihanna.

 Sassy and fun, sing it out loud!

“Can’t Tell Me Nothing,” Kanye West.

It may sound familiar – this Kanye rap was in the summer 2009 hit The Hangover.

 

 “I Gotta Feeling,” Black Eyed Peas.

 A party song to end your journey there, wherever there is!

Debra Schreiber is a senior at Duquesne University where she studies journalism and Spanish. She loves cake decorating, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the television show So You Think You Can Dance, hitting the gym, and her lovely Alpha Sigma Tau sisters!

The Ultimate CL Study Abroad Tip Guide

Studying abroad is an unforgettable adventure. However, cultural differences, traveling issues and packing nightmares can sometimes stand in the way. Simple tips can smooth out the bumps of a study abroad experience. Here are some savvy ways to stay safe and organized while visiting a foreign country.

• Wear an across the shoulder purse at all times. When traveling, keep some money, debit/credit cards, and passport in this purse. You will always have it at the ready and will know where it is. Passports are essential for international travel so it is incredibly important to have it zipped up close to your body. When you are actually traveling within the country, be sure to keep your purse opening towards the front of your body. If you are in any area that is not as safe it never hurts to keep one hand on it.

• Lock your passport and any valuables in the hotel room safe. It is always better to be safe than sorry! It takes a couple of minutes to place your favorite jewelry, passport and electronics in the safe. It will save you the stress and worries that come along with losing your precious items. If there is not a safe (most hotels have them) then strategically place items under clothes at the bottom of the suitcase. Who is going to want to sift through your dirty socks anyway?

• Travel in pairs. This is a general safety tip that usually goes for most of your travels as a young CL lady. You will less likely get threatened if you are with a buddy. When you are visiting a country you are at a disadvantage because you aren’t as familiar with the culture. It might be okay to go out at night by yourself at home, but it is highly dangerous in an unknown country. It is even more important if you can’t speak the native language!

• Try to speak the native language. It is a form of flattery to the people and it makes them feel that you are putting effort into understanding their culture. Get on the locals good side and ‘wow’ them with some basic conversation. Bring along a phrase book in the respective language!

• Don’t speak about politics with the locals. Politics and religion do not make for appropriate dinner conversation and they are usually best to avoid in a foreign place. You usually are not going to be aware of the political struggles and the ins and outs of a different economy so it is best to talk about something less controversial. Be a classy CL lady and keep the conversation light in an effort to avoid upsetting or offending a local.

• Drink mainly bottled water. Different bacteria inhabit waters of different places. Stay on the safe side and guzzle bottled water over tap when you have the chance.

• Make sure to keep small bills in your wallet to tip. It is smart to have smaller change in a convenient place because tips are more frequent when traveling. Whether you are tipping the luggage carrier, hotel staff, restaurant waiter, the taxi driver or the bathroom attendant (yes it happens!), you want to be able to show respect with a small bill.

• Take out only small amounts of exchanged currency from the ATM. It is never a bright idea to keep a lot of cash on you because if you were to lose or have your purse stolen, all of that money would disappear as well. Try to take the money out in increments and think ahead as far as your allotted spending money. This also helps keep spending at a reasonable amount. Also, try putting your money in a variety of places like your wallet, pocket, luggage and safe.

• Keep some tissue paper in your pocket. Sometimes toilet paper does not seem to be as prevalent in other countries. This is not something you want to learn the hard way so be prepared!

• Don’t give taxi drivers large bills. Most taxi drivers are not going to have enough change for a high amount of money. They could think you are a generous young woman and just take everything you give them. Try to avoid this communication error and give out a bill as close to the exact price as possible.

• Ask if the waiter can separate checks before dining. Individual checks are not as popular in other countries. It is best if you can give the waiter a heads up before dinner has started so that they can make plans for the separate bills. By helping them you will help yourself!

• Bring small packs of peanut butter, crackers and granola/protein bars. I follow this tip everywhere I go. Always pack a healthy snack bag. You never know what kind of food you will run into. Also, if you are used to refueling throughout the day it is savvy to slip a granola bar into your purse.

Traveling and studying abroad enrich your mind and therefore enhance your life. Pack wisely, keep keen common sense, and remember to savor the moment while abroad!

Maggie Young is a rising junior at the University of Kansas majoring in journalism. She just returned home from a wonderful study abroad experience in Argentina and is ready to travel more!

Inside a Classy Lady’s Carry On Bag:

Sometimes the most daunting part of getting ready for a journey seems to be what to put in your carry on bag! Here are some tips–from what to house all of your stuff in to how to reach your destination with silky smooth skin!

1. A Big Tote: Preferably something cute but inconspicuous—now is not the time for labels! When you are traveling you want to blend in as much as possible so you don’t become a target for thieves! Look for a faux leather bag with a cross body strap for extra security!
2. An Empty Water Bottle: You won’t be able to get through security with a full bottle but buying one on the other side can get frightfully expensive! By bringing your own bottle you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also be able to stay hydrated on your whole journey!
3. Trail mix: Let’s face it, airplane food is usually unhealthy and doesn’t taste very good. Keep away the cravings for chocolate by munching on some trail mix or mixed nuts. They will keep you full and you will feel less sluggish than if you ate junk.
4. Hand Cream: Plane air can make your skin look parched or even make it start pealing! Cover all of your basis by slathering your face and hands with cream once you’ve settled on the plane— extra points for putting on cotton gloves! You’ll wake up at your destination with soft, glowing skin.
5. A Notebook and Pen: Whether you want to journal your experience or just make a to do list for once you land, having a notebook handy will keep those “Oh I wish I could remember what I was thinking about….” moments from happening. Notebooks can also be useful to make paper airplanes to entertain the restless child the seat behind you, to start a conversation with the cute boy sitting beside you (try a game of tick-tack-toe), or to begin a letter home!
6. Networking Cards: You never know who you might meet on the plane, so it’s best to be prepared. The person sitting next to you may have a connection with the company for whom you’ve always wanted to work! Put your name, your email address (make sure that this is professional, no “flirtychick101@loveboiz.com”!), your college and class year as well as any other contact details you feel are professionally appropriate.
7. Music player with Headphones: Sometimes you just want to block the whole world out! Whether you want to sleep, stop chatting with your seatmate or listen to a new album, headphones are the way to go. They act as a conversation deterrent and can keep the screaming children three rows ahead from getting on your last nerve. However, be careful not to turn up the volume too high—you want to be able to hear if the flight attendants give important announcements.

Alexandra Patterson is an intern with College Lifestyles (TM). She recently flew to England to begin her study abroad program. She really enjoys bringing a notebook along to record the details of her journeys!

Layers – Heating Up Fall Fashion

Autumn is on its way, bringing crispy leaves that crunch on the sidewalks, apples ripe for picking, college football games with plenty of school spirit, and, of course, fall clothes!  This year, keep toasty in the cool weather by wearing layers.  These light pieces travel easily, from class to dinner to club meetings, and they do not take up much space in those cramped dorm and apartment closets.  Here are some ways to incorporate a layered look into your fall wardrobe that will warm you up in winter, too.

Cardigan Sweaters
It is rumored that Coco Chanel, a woman noted for her chic and flattering designs, popularized the cardigan for female fashionistas.  Naturally, this timeless style is still popular today and can be a versatile addition to a classy co-ed closet.  Add interest to a plain cardigan by wearing it with a patterned or lace-embellished tank top; pair this look with jeans for the perfect ensemble to wear to class in those freezing lecture halls.  Take sleeveless dresses into the cooler weather of autumn by throwing on this cute variation of a sweater.  Dressed up or dressed down, the cardigan can accompany a variety of outfits.

Long Sleeve Tee Shirt
Are you looking for a way to take those summer tees and tanks into chilly autumn?  Try putting a long sleeve tee shirt or thermal under a short-sleeved item to stay warm and comfortable around the dorm.  A shirt with a hem that hits below the wearer’s behind would look nice with leggings.  If the shirts are any shorter, try this combo with classic denim or cute sweatpants.  On a side note, you can wear these shirts by themselves as well.  With so many ways to incorporate thermals and long sleeve tees into different outfits, they are a cost-effective update to any casual wardrobe.

Blazers
Cutting-edge co-eds might like the sophistication of a blazer when dressing up for a date or dinner with the family.  Take this businesslike jacket out of the suit to stay warm when going about business as usual.  A plain top and jeans are made more formal with the addition of a blazer; it instantly adds polish.  Carry a short-sleeved or sleeveless dress into the cooler months by pairing it with a blazer for a look that is fun and flirty.  With a classic silhouette free of trendy embellishments, this jacket can stay a part of any classy wardrobe for years to come.

Meredith is a CL Intern and a sophomore majoring in Business Operations at Indiana University.  She looks forward to wearing layers to class, club meetings, dinners, and dates this fall.

Oh Baby Baby, How Was I Supposed to Know?

Johnson’s® has been one of America’s most trusted brands for over a century.  Commonly associated with their large line of baby products, I have stayed in tune with their popular products over the years thanks to my many babysitting jobs.  Surprisingly I have found that many of Johnson’s® baby products offer more uses than what their products are primarily known for.

Did you know…

Johnson’s® head-to-toe® baby wash works as a fabulous face wash. I keep a regular sized bottle in my shower, and a travel sized bottle accompanies me on trips.  The best perk?  It is gentle and doesn’t sting if it gets in your eyes.

Johnson’s® baby cleansing wipes are great for removing makeup. You can always find a pack of baby wipes in my bathroom cabinet.  They work great for removing makeup, especially eyeliner and mascara.  They, too, come in travel sized packets, and are great for when you need a quick refresh.

Johnson’s® baby powder can help degrease your hair. Baby powder is my good friend on mornings I oversleep and don’t have time for a shower.  A light sprinkle over your head will instantly degrease your hair.  Brush your hair thoroughly to evenly distribute the powder, and your hair will look almost as fresh as it does after a shower.

Johnson’s® baby oil is an excellent substitute for tanning oil. Baby oil works just the same as tanning oil, if not better.  Keep in mind that it contains no SPF, so make sure to generously apply sunscreen first (check out Kayla’s post on skin care).

Any more products you know of that have multiple uses?  Please share in the comments section; we love hearing your ideas!  Happy substituting!

Abby Bryant is an intern with College Lifestyles™.  She is a senior marketing major at Georgia College & State University® and is the president of her sorority, Sigma Alpha Omega®.  Johnson’s® has become one of her favorite and most frequently used brands for the many uses its products offer.

The Classy, Savvy, College Lifestyles Guide to Flying

My parents were and still are, always jetting off places. Nowhere cool, just dull places for work, but they always seem to be in the air.  As a way to make up for all the time they missed I suppose, I went on lots of vacations. Needless to say, I got used to flying and running through many airports.

So what can I share with you about traveling for the next time you take to the sky? Let’s see. I guess it really is about what you bring:

-       Almonds (Or walnuts). They’re hard so they take longer to eat, keeping you a little more occupied and awake. Plus, they’re packed with protein and good for you. Way better than the traditional peanuts.

-       Raisins. They satisfy my sweet tooth, and again, they’re good for you. They also go great with almonds, a simple trail mix minus all the salt.

-       York Peppermint Patties. I always feel, well, Blah, on airplanes. The kick of chocolate and mint make my mouth feel fresh and satisfy my chocolate need when planes get delayed or the guy next to you just wont share the armrest.

-       Gum. Okay, not surprising. But it’s pretty much a well-known flying standby that deserves to be mentioned.

-       WATER. Flying leaves me feeling like the air on the plane, stale and dry. Water takes care of everything, from the dry throat to dry skin and has 0 calories. Trust me I’m a diet coke fiend & a poor college student, so the idea of a free Diet Coke is appealing, but I know I’ll feel much more refreshed at the end of the flight if I have just nice pure water in me.

-       My computer. I’m on my way to Los Angeles right now! It gets me to do some tedious computer tasks I normally wouldn’t do when I have Internet access, (read: Facebook access) like manage my budget, edit pictures and work on my calendar.

-       Headphones, I need some kind of noise instead of the freezing air blowing out of the vents and the woman in 14C snoring.

-       Reading materials. Currently I have a Glamour and the English Patient. Glamour for fun vacation reading. The English Patient, it’s my “I’m not trying to get noticed but if you happen to look, don’t you think I’m so educated and well read and interesting” book. Vacation means not worrying about jobs or school, so your brain can take a little tougher read that really makes you think. Don’t worry, we all get tired, that’s why there’s glamour!

-       Cards. Don’t travel with someone and ignore them for Britney on the iPod. I’m assuming if you’re traveling with them that you like them, so chat, interact. But if a plane ride starts getting long, whelp, there’s The English Patient. “I’m sorry I really need to focus on this complex work of literature so would you mind if we chatted later?”.

There’s probably way more I could share with you, but these came after lots of flights figuring it out on my own. Find out what works for you and feel free to share!

Audrey is a PR major at Marquette University. She is a proud sister of Alpha Chi Omega and their VP Communications. A lover of traveling, music, movies of every         genre, summer sun and all that it brings!

CL’s Ultimate Cover Song Playlist

Are you in need of some new music?  I am too.  I love my old tunes, but I’ve been getting a little bored, and need an update.  What a better way than to put a new twist on your old favorites?  I asked my friends and followers and came up with a list of cover songs that every classy co-ed can enjoy! Check out CL’s Ultimate Cover Song Playlist.

1. Adele – Make You Feel My Love (by Bob Dylan suggested by Rachel)
2. John Mayer – Free Fallin’ (by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers suggested by Kristy)
3. Allison Crowe – Hallelujah (by Leonard Cohen suggested by Briana)
4. Ben Folds – Golden Slumbers (by The Beatles)
5. The Wallflowers – Heroes (by David Bowie suggested by Christina)
6. Jimmy Robbins – You’re Not Sorry (by Taylor Swift)
7. Fuel – Daniel (by Elton John)
8. Kelly Osbourne – Papa Don’t Preach (by Madonna suggested by Shelly)
   

   Adele

9. The Cast of Glee – Poker Face (by Lady Gaga suggested by Karen)
10. Bettie Serveert – Lover I Don’t Have to Love (by Bright Eyes)
11. Dave Matthews Band – Down By the River (by Neil Young suggested by Branden)
12. Fall Out Boy – Beat It (by Michael Jackson suggested by Emily)
13. Kathryn McPhee – Somewhere Over the Rainbow (by Judy Garland suggested by Lucy)
14. Ron Pope – Little Wing (by Jimi Hendrix suggested by Ron Pope)
15. Melissa Rebronja – Wonderwall (by Oasis suggested by Nicci)
16. Jem – Yellow (by Coldplay)
17. Alicia Keys & Adam Levine – Wild Horses (by Rolling Stones)
18. Regina Spektor – Chelsea Hotel #2 (by Leonard Cohen suggested by Backseat Goodbye)

There you have it! Go to itunes and download these classics with twists!  I hope this helps your iPod get a breath of fresh air!

Did your favorite cover songs make the list? What would you have put on this playlist?  Let us know! Tweet at us: @collegelifestyl!

For more new music, take a look at my last post: CL’s Ultimate Summer Road Trip Playlist!

Becky Alberico is an intern at College Lifestyles ™. She is a Communication Studies major at Edinboro University of PA, and a member of Alpha Sigma Tau! Becky likes the original versions of these songs, but LOVES these remakes! She thinks her iPod will be very happy with these new additions!

The Savvy Co-ed’s Guide To Aspen’s Hottest Joints

I’ve got my life in a suitcase, I’m ready to run run run away (lyric from Copeland’s “The Day I Lost My Voice (The Suitcase Song)”). What am I running from? Nothing actually, life has been eerily smooth. What am I running to? Aspen, Colorado! My previous posts have entailed spoon-fed survival guides for savvy co-eds. However, if you know anything about this mountain town, you know that there is nothing to survive because this picturesque slice of heaven could possibly be the most charming place the United States has to offer.  So, instead of a survival guide, I unleash a simple guide to the top restaurants and bars that you MUST enjoy during your stay in absolute bliss.

Pacifica Seafood & Raw Bar

Although this high-energy restaurant is a finer-dining establishment, with a little (or rather complete) help from my best friend’s parents, my friends and I found ourselves slathering drawn butter over pounds of fresh Alaskan King Crab legs while awakening our senses with their signature Mojitos. Albeit it caters to a more mature crowd, five classy, college co-eds blended in quite nicely. The meals are healthy, a perfect spot for the health-conscious, summer-bod mindset. I have never understood what the intoxicating appeal a simple Caesar salad has had for many people I have encountered throughout my two decades of life. None-the-less, if you are one who has fallen to its allure and need an alternative to seafood, they have a nice one, with just the right amount of cheese. The seafood is fresh and the drinks are hefty…and strong. What more could you ask for on a hot summer day?  Constantly packed with Aspen’s elite, it’s the ideal place for the trendy co-ed to flaunt her style.

The Mustang

Located on Hyman Avenue Mall, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat. Whilst sipping on your Blue Moon and indulging in a bowl of tortilla soup, you can sit outside and enjoy the live mimic of classic rock legends, such as Simon and Garfunkel, Eric Clapton and Fleetwood Mac, which filtrates throughout the street. The servers are spunky and the ambience is light and fun. It’s more appropriate for the savvy co-ed to save some dough while still being spotted in a chic part of Aspen. I wish I tried the Baja fish tacos, since the woman next to me said they were fantastic. If you happen to stumble upon this joint, take a bite and let me know! I suggest having a glass of Aspen’s local brew; it accentuates the magic of this mountain town.

Eric’s Bar

This seemingly quiet, laidback bar was somehow enticing enough for us to start off each and every night. Although the beginning of the week can be slow, it is definitely the jump-off come Thursday. Sensual lighting and modern high-top tables is countered by a grunge upstairs, complimented with a pool table. The outdoor patio is key for summer nights, especially with a packed inside as everyone flutters about for a drink. Although it’s meant for a quick start for the night, without fail, it wrapped us in its guard and kept us there for the night’s entirety on multiple occasions. It is definitely the trendiest spot come nightfall. Of course the seductive co-ed keeps the men on vacation at her beckon call, but never forgets to uphold her class-act demeanor. Flash that smile, bite your lip and charm your way through another drink, but leave them at a close distance. The prowess of the classy co-ed is her temptation peppered with sophistication – an inexorable combination.

Kate Dopazo is an intern with College Lifestyles and a senior at the University of Maryland. She spent the past week as a passerby in the South during a road trip from Texas to Maryland and is finally back in New York…for now.

CL’s Ultimate Summer Road Trip Playlist

It’s road trip time! But before you go anywhere, run to the store and grab an itunes giftcard because you’re going to need it!  Get ready to download the best songs for your road trip playlist! These jams have to keep you energetic and singing one, five or twelve hours into your trip.  Here are my picks for CL’s Ultimate Summer Road Trip Playlist.

1. Ace of Base – The Sign
2. Ke$ha – Dinosaur
3. Marc Cohn – Walking In Memphis
4. R. Kelly – I Believe I Can Fly
5. Jonas Brothers – Australia
6. Matt & Kim – Daylight
7. The Rocket Summer – Brat Pack
8. Tupac – California Love
9. Backstreet Boys – Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)
10. Hanson – Man From Milwaukee
11. Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’
12. Justin Timberlake – Seniorita
13. Rihanna – Shut Up and Drive
14. New Kids on the Block – Step By Step
15. Regina Spektor – Folding Chair
16. Eddie Money – Take Me Home Tonight
17. Jay-Z ft. Kid Cudi – Already Home

One or two classics thrown in with many favorites! Check these out for your next road trip!

What songs made it onto your playlist? Let us know! Tweet at us: @collegelifestyl!

Becky Alberico is an intern at College Lifestyles ™. She is a Communication Studies major at Edinboro University of PA, and a member of Alpha Sigma Tau! Becky cannot wait to see the cornfields and flatlands between Pennsylvania and Iowa with fellow intern Kaitlyn in less than two weeks!

Check out Hillary’s post about what kinds of snacks to bring with you on your next road trip!

Le Chaim! American College vs. Israeli Army Service

A classy co-ed in college vs. a classy co-ed in the army
“American College vs. Israeli Army Service”
The distinguishing question youth must figure out for themselves.

By Carly Bassen
carlybassen@yahoo.com

Many believe that the youth shapes the future of a country’s well being.

As I recollect my experience up to this point as an American, I must ask myself one question-

How have I been an attribute to my country?

This is not an easy answer for anyone. At first I felt proud. Like many, I have been the best student I could be. Using the please’s and thank you’s have made life smooth. Learning a foreign language and reaching for A’s in school have been goals I continue to uphold. Thanks to the simplicity of smiling, it has been great making friends and getting along with others. Then secondary schooling is finished and the duty is to succeed. Fortunately, I was able to graduate from high school and proceed on to studying at a University. Whether or not the opportunity of college is available, every 17-18 year old American asks themself the same question at this stage-

What can I do now to succeed and better my interest?

Just recently, I traveled to Israel on an organized and spectacular Birthright trip. The group I traveled with was made up of about 40 Americans aged 18-24. It was exciting when eight Israeli’s our age joined us. Although we are at the same faze of life, we are from different countries and therefore have very different priorities. While we as American youth seek individual opportunity, Israeli youth seek to best please their country. Their question is-

What can I do to best help my country?

The Israeli youth become soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces. Both young women and men join the army where they choose a unit that best suits their skills.

The IDF said, “Going through the demands and rigors of army life on a totally egalitarian basis forges a common identity that totally transcends social and economic groupings.”

Girls are obligated to serve for just less than two years while boys must serve three years. They choose a military program that sometimes helps build a profession later on.

Throughout my journeys in Israel I talked to many soldiers that had positions such as, public relations, social work, engineering, combat, teaching, and cooking.

Each soldier must follow these four guidelines:

• Set a good example. By wearing a uniform, one is a representative of their country and must have good values that are followed through with good behavior.
• Comradeship. A soldier is expected to risk their life for a fellow soldier by not deserting one wounded on the battlefield.
• Avoid politicization. A soldier must be modest and not accept gifts or favors from anyone.
• Be professional. Each soldier must grow in their particular course so that they acquire the skills needed for a meaningful task.

My good friend Hemda Ben Zvi, who was a soldier on my Birthright trip told me, “There is a treasured peace among us that we developed being each other’s wingmen and mates during challenges.”
While they bond over life threatening and serious moments, we Americans bond over parties and social groups like a sorority.

As I contemplated the difference between our duties as American youth and the duties of Israeli youth, I had to wonder about fundamentals.
I must also add that despite Israel’s more intense and unified responsibility, they are just like us. The first question they asked upon joining our group was, “When can we take our uniforms off?”
They still want to enjoy life, make friends, and be goofy. After the first initial meeting of the soldiers who joined our group, we forgot that they were any different as we became one big family.

A savvy co-ed must realize that although cultures around the world may be drastically different, the bottom line is that people are people. We all have needs, wants, and passions. In Israel, I was lucky to hike mountains, ride a camel, float in the Dead Sea, shop in busy flea markets, and raft down the Jordan River. An American college student and an Israeli solider participating in these activities still laughs and sweats the same. Lifestyles aside, we all want to make the best of a situation and enjoy each experience together.

I could most relate to Kate Dopazo’s article, “The Savvy Co-ed’s Guide to Texas- New York Edition.” Both of us were enlightened by new cultures while traveling. Like Kate, I had to put my best foot forward and charm my way through a foreign territory. I admire Kate’s approach and agree with her charismatic attitude when traveling. Any classy co-ed can learn from her advice after experiencing a new lifestyle.
http://collegelifestyles.org/2010/06/texas-new-york-edition/

Carly is a College Lifestyles intern who attends Indiana University. Each month she becomes involved with a different and fun sport or activity. While last month she was addicted to taking Zumba classes, this month she is roller blading.

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