For all of you collegiate overachievers out there, never fear! I know what you're thinking: college means sacrificing one of three things: your friends, your grades, or any sleep you hope to get. In fact, you probably have this facial expression and these words going through your head like a flashing neon sign on the Vegas strip.

There is a way to keep your GPA intact while still having the semblance of a social life. If you're a masochist like yours truly and taking 18 credits, a triple major, and summer school to graduate in three years you're in luck, because I know just how to do it. College academics do not have to be something that looms over your head 24/7.

...preferably on both sides of the page. (That way, you won't drill through your print quota and you'll also be acting in an environmentally conscious way.) If you also use a computer, keep a copy of your syllabi on your desktop, possibly in a folder dedicated to each class, so if you happen to spill your late night coffee all over your desk, you have instant access to a new one. You could also make use of IU Box to keep all of your academic files in the cloud, which comes in handy with video presentations and collaborations with classmates, and in the moments when you're trying to find a printer at the last minute for a paper due within the next twenty. Also, some professors don't always have their syllabi posted on OnCourse; kindly ask for a copy of the file.

You want to know earlier than later if exams will conflict or if you're going to end up with four exams on one day. Imagine the alternative: cramming for all of them during finals week. Not a pretty picture. Additionally, if your professor includes a schedule of the reading or homework assignments, you may also write those in as well. Beware: Some professors list the lecture dates and what reading will be covered during the lecture, which means you should list the reading on the previous day of class in your planner so you will have done the reading in advance. Also, you may not want to put the more detailed bits, like reading and homework, into your planner for more than two weeks in advance. If they change the schedule and you wrote it all down in pen, you'll have a lovely time with a couple bottles of white-out.

...such as late-papers, office hours, and grade breakdowns. It'll help you effectively allocate the stress you need to get things done, without the over-stressing that can often be a standstill to production.

Some professors like to use PowerPoint Presentations, while others stick to the blackboard. Some are lectures, while others are seminars. Get in touch with how they present information in class, and adjust your note-taking accordingly. Also, find out if they allow students to take notes on laptops during class. All last year, I only took handwritten notes, but this year, I'm finding that Microsoft Word's Note-Taking View is especially helpful, especially when professors like to jump around during lectures and the material is not always laid out logically or chronologically. Again, do readings before class on the material, then take notes during the lecture that supplement your reading notes; keep an eye out and star a piece of info if its mentioned in both places (don't write it twice unless that'll help you remember).  However, remember kids, don't give yourself carpal tunnel and write legibly. Don't skip class, even when the lecture is 2 hours and you're all like:

Make a list of their office hours, so you'll know which professors you may be able to drop-in on between classes and which ones you'll have to make an appointment in order to meet with them. Greet them like this, and you'll have no problems.

Also, these people can be pretty interesting. For example, among your 4-6 professors and their respective AI's and TA's, you're going to find varied backgrounds, interests, and life stories. Two of my professors graduated from Harvard (I know what you're thinking, but I was still slightly fan-girling out anyhow), several are department chairs, many have gripping research interests, and another won a Guggenheim. Many are just plain amusing, or, like my Intro to Psych & Brain Sciences professor, have an amazing taste in music (imagine walking into a 200 person lecture hall and hearing Tegan & Sara or the Lumineers playing on the projector screen). Also, meet your advisors, as they are some essential resources here as well. Your meetings may end up kind of like this, but it helps when you're registering for classes for the following semester and you have no clue what you're doing.

Remember, you're at Indiana University, and that's a pretty amazing place to be.

Friends are often your support system at college, especially if your family lives such a distance away that it is inconvenient and slightly less than economical to drive home every weekend. Make new ones, but remember the ones you already have. Make an effort to talk to the cute guy or girl sitting next to you in class. It helps having someone to have your back when it comes to keeping up in class. However, this may be the wrong way to approach someone, but hey, to each his (or her) own.

Yeah, I know, this seems like the opposite of what it takes to have a social life, and you probably think

Make a trip to Wells a way to spend time with a friend. You can really study in the first floor reading room of the East Tower (best for when you actually need to study and can surreptitiously scope out some new eye candy from between the stacks) or the fourth floor of the West Tower (where you can alternate between studying, people watching, and keeping up with the goings-on in each others' lives).

So, you need a some community involvement on your resume? The Student Involvement Fair and My Involvment are great resources in order to find groups that you can get involved with on campus. For me, it was always great going to Psychology Club or Circolo Italiano, and it's a great place to meet people and network within the academic disciplines one is studying.

Rewarding yourself is a way to both get rid of the stress from a week of hard work and to treat yourself for getting everything done. If you go out to parties, first rule: Do not go alone, especially at night. Go somewhere with friends you trust, and beware of the effects of alcohol on decision making, whether or not you're partaking.. Similarly, be careful what you drink, as you may not know what is truly in it. Also, have emergency numbers in your phone, such as IUPD, Bloomington PD, or RedTire Taxi and the like, and, if you live on campus, your residence hall's front desk or after hours phone number. Nothing's worse than being locked out because you lost your keys or your ID. Be prepared. Carry pepper spray. Don't get arrested. Have fun!

• Seven Ways to be a Better Student
• My Advice for Staying Organized This Semester (and for the rest of college)!
• Surviving College Like A Pro
• Five Quick Tips to Getting an A in College

Have you noticed your stress level shoot through the roof in the last week? How does it feel like you're weeks behind when you've only been in class a few days? First of all you need to know you're not alone. It's HARD going from summer vacation back into classes and having commitments. So how do you you manage to have sleep, a social life, and good grades in college?

I know most of us like multitasking, myself included, but it doesn't always work. If you want a quick way to make your life easier, don't study with the TV on or loud music playing. Obvious, right? But we all still do it. What I have learned over the past year is that it's ok to study "simpler" subjects while watching TV, but if you're trying to learn calculus, chemistry, etc, leave your room. I, for one, simply CANNOT focus with a TV, a laptop, a mp3, and a smartphone all at my fingertips. The library is a great place to get away, but remember there's more than just Wells. Check out the Jordan Hall, Chemistry, or Geology libraries. They're often less crowded and quieter than Wells and so, are better study spots. The trick is not bringing all your technology with you. Bring only what is essential. Should you listen to music while you study? That's up to you, but some types of music aren't good for studying. For example, I love Linkin Park and Sugarcult, but who can really focus when listening to that? What I actually tend to do is pick a symphony for each subject and listen to that same music whenever I study that particular subject and on the way to the corresponding exams. I know it's bizarre, but it seems to work for me! Basically, find what works for you for each subject and stick to it!

Ok, so we know my study tips for good grades, but what about managing your social life? The easiest way to do this, for me, is to text/call during study breaks and while walking between classes. I don't like to text during my long breaks (i.e. over an hour between classes), though, because it is a sort of built in study time that I take advantage of. What you can do is study with your friends or save most social outings for the weekend. I know that's not what you want to hear because I don't want to hear it, either. It's hard not being extremely social during the week, but it helps your grades and sleep.

Speaking of sleep, naps are the best thing ever. I drink so much caffeine, it's ridiculous (and ridiculously expensive), but you may not need to. When you're unmotivated to work or you're just so exhausted you can't focus, take a 30 minute nap. Make sure you set an alarm or else you'll sleep for a long time and then you won't get a good nights' sleep, which starts a vicious cycle of napping. I only say that because that was me last year and it really hurt me. Long naps take away from your study AND social time. They're appealing, but not practical. Also, at least try to get at least 6 hours of sleep every night! It'll keep your stress level down and help you to be a functional human being.

In closing, you CAN have a social life, sleep, and good grades, but it takes some planning ahead and motivation. Good luck with your classes!

• Seven Ways to be a Better Student
• How am I supposed to manage my time?
• Finals...To Study Or Not To Study.

"This is so college." That was what one of my friends said as we sat outside in front of the Maurer School of Law earlier this semester. We had just gotten coffee at the Starbucks across the street and were relaxing in the shade watching people travel to and from Kirkwood Ave. It really was "so college." When I was in high school, I had this picture in my head of what college was going to be like. It was all sweeping grassy areas, frisbee, coffee, and cute guys in glasses (yeah I kind of like the nerdy type haha). That was what I was looking for. That is what I wanted from my college experience. Now, as I write that, it seems pretty superficial. Of course I also wanted a good education, great practical work experience, and also better friends. But first, the school had to catch my eye. There had to be that initial attraction. I was talking about this with one of my friends a few days ago..."this" being the importance of attraction. We were talking about it in the context of dating but I guess it can be applied to colleges as well. When I was college-shopping, I immediately evaluated each school based on my gut reaction to it. Was I attracted to it? Did it fit the picture I had in my head? IU definitely did. It was one of those "dat school tho" moments if you know what I mean!

What I want each of you to do right now is close your eyes after you finish reading the following instructions... Picture the college you want to go to. What does your "college experience" look like? Where are you studying? What does your classroom look like? Who is your professor? What is the area around the school like? Ok... close your eyes now and picture that...

I'm dead serious with this... CLOSE YOUR EYES AND PICTURE COLLEGE!

Ok, thanks for playing along :) But what did you see? Hold onto that image and don't settle for anything less! (And to continue the metaphor...that's what my mom always told me about dating too!) Don't settle for something that doesn't make you as happy as you can possibly be. Now of course, keep in mind things like money and location and whether or not the school actually has your major. Those are the fundamentals that have to be there in order for you to succeed. But everything else should fit right into that college experience you want. 

Something that I absolutely love about college is that no two people ever have the exact same experience. I went to a really small high school where we were all kind of funneled down the same academic path and did similar extra-curriculars. It was fine then because I needed that structure but once I got to college I was ready to get out and do something new! In all of my jobs on campus, a word that always seems to come up is "experience." During Orientation, we push the idea that everyone is going to have their own "Hoosier Experience." As an RA, we spend a lot of time talking about the "Residential Experience." That's because college is more than just the school part. I mean, ultimately yes, that's why you go to college, to learn things. But I would venture to say that 50% of the things I've learned in college have been things I've learned outside of the classroom. You come to college for a degree AS WELL AS the real life experiences you'll gain along the way. And everyone has a different experience. If you come to college expecting the same thing as your older sibling or your best friend from high school, you will most likely be disappointed. I know it's sometimes fun to put yourself in their shoes and live vicariously through their adventures but try keeping your own shoes on for a while...they typically fit better! (hahahahaha) For real though, come to college ready to have your own adventures, make your own friends, and figure out how you fit into your new community. There is no "one" Hoosier Experience and no "one" college experience. You get to make it whatever you want it to be!

So find the place where you can be most comfortable. Find your place where you can look around every now and then and say, "this is so college."

• What is important when making your college decision?
• Why IU is the best (perfect) place for me
• 10 Reasons Why I Love Being an IU Hoosier

First week of school: check

First long weekend of the year: double check

Now after being on campus for going on 3 weeks now I've learned a couple things.

1. College is WAY better than high school
2. My two best friends are now my bed and the dining hall.

The Wright dining hall has quickly become my saving grace. I mean any place you get 60% food is a good place in my opinion. If any of you are like me the second you sit down in class the first thought to pop in your mind is what you're going to eat as soon as you get out. Chicken? Pasta? Pizza? The possibilities are (not so) endless. But after 21 days of going to the Wright dining hall you learn a few things...

Times to avoid dining halls like Wright are, but are not limited to, right after major class times are done. These include your typical 8am's, 9am's, 6pm's, etc. Also be sure that you aren't going at a "typical meal time." Trust me, while lunch at 1 sounds like a good idea, the second you see the amount of people in there you will most definitely lose your appetite. In places like El Bistro in Read make sure you get there really early for breakfast otherwise you can add another 30 minutes of waiting in line to your schedule.

If you plan on cramming in a quick meal in between classes make sure you're getting food from places that don't take a significant amount of time to make your meal. Essentially this means that if you plan on eating at Pacific Rim account for the fact that you will most likely wait at least 15 minutes to get your food. If you need a quick fix the Flamingo Grill usually has burgers/chicken/fish sandwiches ready to grab and go.

If you ever find yourself in the vast abyss of the dining hall alone, the easiest ways to meet people is to just ask to sit with them and strike up a conversation. While it may not always guarantee best friends it definitely makes a meal more enjoyable when you have someone to talk to.

• Three secrets to Wright dining hall
• Campus Noms: Eating Healthy and Staying Nourished
• Best RPS Dining Facilities to TRY!
• Kaylee's Dining Hall Awards: The Best Food on IU's Campus and Where to Get It
• Campus food: Can't Live With It, Can't Live Without It.

Since I am a freshman entering my third week of classes, I am by no means a pro at navigating college life. However, I wanted to share a few random bits of knowledge I have picked up so far. Here are some of my tips on how to become an IU (semi) pro:

1. Do NOT go to Wright Food Court during regular meal times. If you want to stand in line for an hour for stir fry or wait thirty minutes for fries, then go to lunch between 12 and 1 or dinner between 6 and 7:30. Otherwise, steer clear and become a fan of eating at odd times. 
2. Laundry: Buy pods instead of a whole bottle of laundry detergent. The pods have everything you need all in one little package and it's one less thing to have to lug to the laundry room.
3. Don't study in your room. Being in your room all the time gets old real fast. Instead, go to the Wells library or sit outside against a tree and read. One of my new favorite things to do is to explore campus by finding new places to study.
4. Walking shoes are going to become your new best friend, so invest in a good pair. On days when I have to go from Teter to Ballantine to Woodburn to Swain West and then back to Teter, I am so thankful for my comfy sneakers. 
5. On a side note: opt for flip-flops or sandals on your least busy days in order to avoid the smell that will eventually take over your shoes.
6. On a side side note: break in all your new shoes before getting to campus because light walking days just don't exist and they will just sit in your closet.
7. For those of you preparing to come to IU: make a short pass phrase when you set up your account on Onestart. After having to put my 20 character pass phrase into Onestart about a billion times a day in order to check my email, look at my bursar account, or check out my classes on Oncourse, I really wish I had gone a simpler route.
8. This going to sound stupid but, go to things! There are always tons of events happening on campus and you never know what you'll discover. By making a last minute decision to go to RecFest, I found the IU Western Equestrian Team which I didn't know they had here and is perfect since I used to ride in rodeos and have been dying to get back on a horse and back in a barn.
9. Free stuff: this has to do with my last point about going to things, but free stuff is literally everywhere. There isn't one event I have attended where I didn't walk away with a handful of goodies. If that doesn't make you want to go to an event then I really just don't know how to talk to you.
10. Decorate your room. This may seem obvious, but I can't tell you how many dorm rooms I've walked into and since perhaps one poster on the wall. I created a homey atmosphere by putting up a bunch of pictures of my family and my high school friends (and new college friends!) up next to my bed and around my desk.
11. Talk. To. Your. Roommate. If there is an issue, bring it up. By not talking about any issues you have, it just creates a tension filled atmosphere and that is not a good vibe you want to have where you live.  

• Surviving College Like A Pro
• What to Do (and Not to Do) Your First Week of Class
• 5 Reasons I'm Incredibly Grateful for my IU Orientation Experience

Here at Indiana it's incredibly awesome that the students have so much enthusiasm for IU basketball and love going to football games. BUT it's such a shame that our soccer team doesn't get more recognition! I must confess that I only started going to the games this year because my friend who's really into soccer asked me to go with her, but after I went to the first game of the season, I knew that I would be coming back for every game!

The soccer games are 100% completely free to students with your student ID. This is college. Free is good.

Our team has won the National Championship 8 times, including the National Championship last year.

If you get to the game early enough, you can stand right along the edge of the field during the game. You won't get to see a football or basketball game from that close-up!

Before the game, the team comes running out, and they high-five everyone along the side of the field. It's really cool! Everyone is excited, and it's awesome to see so much energy!

If you want info about IU men's soccer, click here for their website. If you want to know more about IU athletics in general, click here.

You can get free stuff for going to the games. Check out some of the things I've gotten!

And! Every time the Hoosiers score a point, they throw T-shirts into the crowd (last time they were Kilroy's T-shirts). You'll have a better chance of getting one at a soccer game rather than a football game because the turn-out is significantly smaller. You may still have to fight to the death to get your hands on one though... I don't have a pic because I have yet to get one, but two of my friends have.

The soccer games are televised, so if you're standing in the right place at the right time, you could be on TV! (I, unfortunately, was almost standing at the right place at the right time...)

And the best part.... if you join the Hoosier Army and check in at the marketing table before every game, they keep track of who goes to the games. If you go to every game all season, you get to meet the team!!!!!!!!

SO,

If you're ever bored, and you're looking for some free activity to do with your friends, and it happens to be a game day, be sure to go to a game! It really is a blast!

• August 30 vs. SMU - 7:30pm
• September 1 vs. UCLA - 2:00pm
• September 8 vs. West Virginia - 8:00pm
• September 13 vs. CSU Bakersfield - 8:00pm
• September 15 vs. UC Irvine - 1:00pm
• September 20 vs. Brown - 7:30pm
• September 29 vs. Ohio State - 2:00pm
• October 6 vs. Penn State - 2:30pm
• October 15 vs. Louisville - 7:00pm
• October 23 vs. Evansville - 7:00pm
• November 1 vs. Michigan State - 7:00pm

Be sure to follow the Men's Soccer Team on Twitter @IUMensSoccer

Also @HoosierArmy

Thanks for reading and see you at the next game!

I find it hard to believe that I am more than halfway finished with my college career. My time at IU has been nothing short of amazing, but I also have learned the importance of utilizing networking relationships throughout the college years.

After graduation, a majority of us will be anxiously searching for jobs. Nowadays, it is hard to distinguish yourself with simply just a major. The activities and internships you get in college help show employers who you are and what you stand for. Here at IU, the opportunities are endless! There are so many clubs and organizations fitting to a never-ending array of interests, and it’s almost guaranteed you will find a perfect fit for you. Obtaining leadership roles within your organization are a fun, innovative way to gain professional experience doing something you love. One of the organizations I am involved with is CRU, also known as Campus Crusade for Christ. I am a Christian and it's really great to surround myself with people of similar beliefs. I have formed some amazing friendships at CRU and it's wonderful being part of such a loving community.

Internships are another aspect of networking that can be utilized to figure out what kind of job or career you might want come graduation. It is never too early to start looking-the earlier you look, the better! This past summer, I interned with the marketing department of a nonprofit microfinance organization. I gained insight on what goes on behind the scenes of a nonprofit organization. The influence nonprofit organizations have on individuals is truly phenomenal!  I am fiercely passionate about making a difference in other people’s lives, and my internship helped me gain insight on that.

What else did my internship teach me? I learned that I absolutely love social media marketing. I am thoroughly impressed with any company that carries an influential online presence, and I enjoy researching efficient social media practices. Lots of effort goes behind building a reputable online presence, including composing tweets, attracting fans/followers, the time of a post, and so much more. I really hope to get involved with this kind of marketing for a future career, and I am so thankful my internship helped me confirm my passion.

College is a time where you get to discover yourself. Not only is it important to work hard academically and make lifelong friendships, but take this time out to discover your true passion and go for it!

• Sophomore Year-An IU Photo Journal
• 10 Reasons Why I Love Being an IU Hoosier
• Finding your Hoosier Home After All

Now that you've dipped your freshmen toes into the Bloomington waters (this includes, but is not limited to, familiarizing yourself with course work, getting a few collegiate parties under your belt and learning that both B-town buses and bikers are ruthless), it's time to start getting involved on campus. IU offers an unlimited amount of opportunities and every Hoosier should take full advantage of them. Here's what to expect when getting involved on campus.

So you love show tunes, live theater and everything in between.Getting involved at the IU Auditorium, IU Cinema and IU Theater are great places to get front row tickets for free.

You could usher at the IU Auditorium for performances like the Blue Man Group and Bare Naked Ladies.

You could usher at the IU Cinema for film showings and guest lecturers
like filmmaker Vadim Abrashitov and Nicolas Winding Refn.

You could usher at the IU Theater for student performances of productions
like Chicago and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.

If you're an animal lover, the Revitalizing Animal Well-Being organization, among others, is a way to help and interact with animals.RAW members get to participate in on-campus activities (such as Furry Finals) as well as off-campus outings (for example, building turtle pens at Wildcare).

If you so desperately want to be involved with a sport at IU but don't have the time to make such a commitment, try getting involved with a sport/recreational club. IU has an incredible amount of sports clubs ranging from dance teams to Quidditch.

Greek life is extremely present on IU's campus. Guys pledge throughout the year and ladies rush during the winter. Greek life is a great way to make lasting friendships, give back to the community and network with future employers; they aren't as stereotypical as everyone makes them out to be.

However, if Greek life isn't what you're looking for there's also a great organization for independent women. The Independent Council doesn't involve competitive recruitment and it doesn't require the commitment a sorority does.

IU offers students so much during their years of studies. Every Hoosier owes it to themselves to get involved with at least one extra curricular activities. Don't know where to start? Try My Involvement and check out all of the bulletin boards and flyer stands around campus and in classrooms.

• Hidden Gems: The Best Little-Known Things to Do on the Weekends
• Better Off Greek? The Greek System At IU, As Told By The Former Greek Reporter
• The Many Sports Clubs of Indiana University

"Oh my gosh, what do I do with my life now?" I am sure a lot of you are asking that question as you try and decide which major is best for you. But, no need to worry--Indiana University has a large range of options out there for you!

First off, let's take a look at available majors at IU.... okay, did you see anything you liked? IU has so many options to choose from. Not only is their list of majors extensive, but IU also has lots of minors, certificates, and other ways for you to focus on multiple interests.

Now, if you didn't find something you were super thrilled about on that list it's okay!! Indiana University offers a unique major titled 'exploratory'. That means that you can take your time going through and taking some classes that interest you, getting in all of your general education courses, and discovering what is going to be best for you. Until you decide exactly what you want to focus on then you will be listed as an exploratory major (and don't worry, there are a lot of you out there). IU is one of the only colleges that offers this major, so if you cannot decide what is the perfect focus for you just yet, then take advantage of the exploratory major and, well, EXPLORE!

What happens if I decide on a major and then change my mind? Good question! Switching majors is super simple (and trust me...I just switched!). However, it is ideal that you try and do all of the switching as soon as possible, therefore, you will still be able to graduate "on time." BUT usually you will have plenty of time. Talk to an advisor about your new found interest and begin striving towards this new major!

I hope I answered at least a couple questions! If you want to learn a little bit more about being an exploratory major then check out this post by Emily Wild: The Perks of Being an Exploratory Major. Also, check back again soon because I plan to post some more major options that I bet you didn't even know were out there really soon!

If you like my writing here, then don't forget to check out my personal blog at http://www.danyzell.blogspot.com! AND follow me on twitter @dnbailey94!!

As I think back on where I was a year ago at this time, I couldn't even imagine where I would end up at college. I spent days and nights agonizing over where the perfect place would be for me and I am so excited to tell you that I found the absolute perfect home at Indiana University. 

I've only been here for a few weeks and already it feels like I've always been a part of Hoosier Nation. From the very start of Welcome Week, there have been so many opportunities and amazing experiences. I attended Culture Fest and tasted food from restaurants around Bloomington, listened to slam poetry, and bonded with the girls on my Floor. Then at Spirits and Traditions, I screamed all of the words to "This is Indiana" right beside all the other freshman and was hit with such a sense of community that I knew this was exactly the place where I belonged.

The next week I started classes. After Orientation, I went home excited to start my classes but I never could have imagined how interesting each one would be and how different from anything I was ever able to take in high school. It is so refreshing to wake up and actually be excited to attend class because you are taking courses that are related directly to what you are interested in. My classes range from Business classes to a class about King Arthur and even one about Greek Mythology. The professors are so full of knowledge and it is incredible to be able to take so many different types of courses. 

Though there are many other aspects to why the last three weeks at this school already have me in love with IU, the biggest factor is the people I have met. The picture below is one from last weeks football game (we're showing our hoosier spirit and we got to sit in the fourth row! So cool!). Everyone I have met has stories to share and just as much love for this school as I do. Every time I walk around campus I am blown away by how many Indiana t-shirts I see and how much spirit is evident from the students. It is so obvious that everyone who goes here loves this school, and that is exactly what I wanted from my college: to go to a place where the love of the school is infectious, everyone is a family, and there are a million opportunities to be had.

Whether it's learning about who you are in the Kelley Compass, eating late night Pizza X with your floor mates, attending a call out meeting for a club, or showing your IU spirit at the football game, the Spirit of Hoosier Nation is palpable at every moment and I can't wait to experience more and more of it.

Until next time.

Nikki 

• 6 Ways to Enjoy Every Second at IU
• 10 Reasons Why I Love Being an IU Hoosier
• So, Who is Ready to Move Back?

RAISE is a great group to be involved in and we're always looking to expand the group in addition to generating new ideas for educating our peers on campus! I've been a part of RAISE for about two years now and there is always some position or role in the group that needs to be fulfilled - I'm now the communications director! We're the ones who put on the screening of the Bro Code last semester. We were at Sex, Drugs, and Rock n Roll most recently and we also hand out condoms at different campus events and much, much more! Come out to our call-out meeting. You won't regret it!

Contact us at raise@indiana.edu
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter

I hope to see you there:)

• We're All Consenting Adults Here
• My Picks For IU Student Organizations

Hey Hoosiers!

I get this question a lot: "what do you mean you are an Informatics major?" And, well, I usually wind up attempting to give a short and sweet answer as quickly as possible; however, in all honesty, an Informatics major is so much!

The major of Informatics is in the School of Informatics and Computing (or SOIC for short). This school consists of many classes that pertain to the majors of Computer Science (B.A. and B.S.*) and Informatics B.S., as well as the option for a few other minors and certificates within this technology based theme. Now, when I say Computer Science most of you may be able to better visualize a definition. Therefore, when comparing Computer Science and Informatics - Computer Science people are the ones who create the software and Informatics people are the ones who apply this software. REMEMBER, this is a very generalized definition. It is used to create a better understanding of what someone with an Informatics major might do; but, it is not all you can do. The worlds of Computer Science and Informatics are very intertwined. Someone who does something with an Informatics degree, might be able to do the same thing with a focus in Computer Science.

One key thing that my advisor told me to remember was this: Computer Science is a lot of math! If you like math, then, by all means, give it a try. She actually recommended that I take the 101 version of both classes and experience what each major is all about. Another thing to note is that Informatics also has something called a cognate. A cognate is like a focus! You can choose a cognate from their list of over 20 options like Psychology, Biology, Journalism, etc.

So, what are my intentions in having an Informatics major? I am an Informatics, B.S. major with a cognate in Psychology and a minor in counseling (and possibly more minors, too). What I want to do with my degree is ever changing - I'm working with technology, so I'll need to be flexible, but some day I might want to be a consultant for big businesses! I could come in and tell them what software would work best for what task, maybe teach them how to promote through social media, organize files and sites, etc. Also, the option of being my own web designer is always right at my door! With a cognate in Psychology, I could work on interfacing and setting up software ergonomics in order to better suit its users. Working with technology can be so broad and ever changing, the options are nearly endless.

If this is the first you've ever heard about Informatics, then don't fret! You are not alone!! Chelsie Kasun just found out too and wrote about it here: My Major Journey: How I Decided What To Study. Oh and don't forget about Amanda Richardson, she loves IU so much she has decided to stay another year... and just for IU's Informatics Major-- Four Reasons the School of Informatics and Computing Should Be On Your Radar! Check out all of these awesome links, and don't forget to stop by for more information about the best majors and the best college out there!

*B.A. stands for a bachelors of arts, and B.S. stands for a bachelors of science.

If you like my writing here, then don't forget to check out my personal blog at http://www.danyzell.blogspot.com AND follow me on twitter @dnbailey94!

If you have never had a class with Irene Vlahos-Weber, register right now. Actually you probably can't get in, because it's past the deadline, and she is also super popular. She is a professor in the psychology department, and she teaches intro, P101, abnormal, P324, and is the co-leader of the TA program. I am lucky enough to have stumbled into her class as a freshman and fell in teacher love. Currently I get to see her 4 days a week because I am in her abnormal class, and her TA seminar. SCORE.

To the point of this post- today I went to talk to her after class because I was having a sort of 20 year-life crisis. I started my internship with some "at risk" kids last week, and it has been very overwhelming so far. I was talking to her about it and she just put me right at ease. She talked through with me why these kids are probably acting out, and why I am taking it personally. (I have been pretty successful at things in general, and not being good at something or accepted right away is overwhelming for my brain to handle). In other words, just because a kid throws Legos at me doesn't mean I actually did anything wrong. Then she handed me the cutest notebook ever and told me to start writing down my experiences and everything I do. It will help me in the long run, she said. Then when I am ready to apply to graduate school, she is going to help me work on my VITA (or something, I have no idea, and she made me promise I wouldn't start working on grad school applications yet). Basically she helped me change my perspective about my semester long internship (on day 2) from something a little shaky to something positive. I will actually learn something from this semester.

The morale of the story- find teachers who you can connect with and who inspire you. Then stalk them at office hours and get to know them. Surrounding yourself with people who are high achieving will make you want to be high achieving too.

ALSO- don't go around asking Irene for presents or favors. You have to EARN THEM. And find your own cool teacher- I'm kind of selfish and I don't like sharing. ;] At least until I graduate. Just kidding.

Peace, Love, and Resolved Panic

• Professors: The Do's and Don'ts
• Does Making Friends with Professors Really Help You?

Fall is upon us on the Bloomington campus and along with pumpkin spice lattes comes other traditions--like tailgating! The structure of tailgating has changed quite a bit recently. I remember a time when it was pure chaos. Soda liters flying around, music blaring, and red solo cups plastered the beautiful fields of 17th street. Now Greeks have to follow new rules. No more cars, and each fraternity and sorority has their own tent. I was hesitant at first when I heard about this change. Cars are one of the key components of a tailgate! But, it turned out better than I thought. The tents provided some protection from the sun and made it a little easier to find your friends. But I still miss the old tailgates. As a seasoned tailgate vet, here are some tips I would like to pass on.

1. DO wear CREAM and CRIMSON
Show some school spirit and bring out anything you own that is cream or crimson! Tracks is a great store on Kirkwood to buy Hoosier apparel. I'm a fan of the IU face stickers.

2. DO eat before you go

As I discovered my freshman year, the McNutt C-Store doesn't open until 11am on the weekends. Make sure you have something to eat before you go even if it means traveling to a new food court. And drink plenty of water because you can get very dehydrated at the fields.

3. DO travel in a group

Don't try to go with your entire floor. It's just too hard to keep track of that many people. But do have a set group of about four people to navigate the fields with.

4. DO go to the football game!

I know that I tend to skip out on the football game usually because of sheer exhaustion, but it actually is really fun to go watch the Hoosiers! Memorial Stadium is gorgeous and you really feel a part of IU when you're there.

5. DO paint your face or body!

My business teacher freshman year offered us extra credit if we painted our face for a home game and took a picture. The experience was even more enjoyable in red and white paint!

1. DON'T be the person stumbling around the field.

As many of us know, excise police are EVERYWHERE at the tailgates. Chances are if you're doing something wrong, you will get caught.

2. DON'T wear nice shoes.

The fields are usually pretty muddy and your shoes will get ruined. I don't even like to wear Converse anymore because they get so gross. I recommend buying cheap Keds that you don't care about that much and you can wear multiple times.

3. DON'T go to the field too late.

A lot of games have an early kickoff. That means that people start tailgating at 7am! I am definitely not a morning person so this concept was difficult for me to grasp. But it is worth it to wake up early and get your butt to the field. They close down the fields 30 minutes prior to kickoff so even if you go to the tailgate an hour before the game you're missing out.

4. DON'T try to meet up with people there

It is almost impossible to meet up with friends at the tailgate. Phone service is spotty and it is always loud so you might not even hear your friend if you make a call. Walk over with a group!

I hope these tips help you have a fun tailgate! Stay safe Hoosiers!

What's Your IU Spirit Score?

If you haven't been to a Tailgate yet, you NEED to go!

Getting into the routine of your class schedule? Still procrastinating going to the gym? Let me help. I know the ins and outs of the Rec Sports facilities here at IU and will guide you through the do's and dont's of getting your fitness on. Plus if you just need incentive to go, there's lot of opportunities to meet beautiful people at the gym. Like Henry Cavill.

But that's beside the point. 

DO check out the Rec Sports' rules on what to wear...crop tops, toms, and especially this girl won't work here! 

DONT be that person who doesn't clean their machine. YUCK. Also, at the designated paper towel and bleach stations, spray onto your paper towel and then walk to your machine, don't bring the spray bottle with you, you'll upset every. single. person. in the gym!

DO attend the group exercise classes! As an instructor myself, I'm biased about this. But they're all free (except for yoga, Pilates, and cycle fit) and the instructors are fantastic! Check out the schedule here: http://www.iurecsports.org/fall_schedule

DONT dunk. Want to hoop? Awesome. But you can get in serious trouble, like restriction from Rec Sports facilities, if you try to dunk, almost all of my guy friends have thought they were the exception to the rule but no. Better safe than sorry! 

DO know what you're paying for. Your activity fee covers both WIC & SRSC facilities including pools, outdoor fields, tennis courts, and tracks. The rec sports website has lots of up to date information about other activities like free yoga sessions and intramural sports. 

DONT be immune to busy times at both facilities. The SRSC gets PACKED between 4-7ish at night, there are 3 people deep for a machine and there's a lot more waiting than there is sweating. WIC has the same access, machines, and classes as the SRSC and is usually less busy! Take the time to know how to get the best out of your workout and avoid the crowd! 

DO only weight lift downstairs of the SRSC if you are a boy. There is a brand new shiny weight room on the main level of the SRSC for all you frat star/manly muscle types to lift and grunt. The upstairs Strength and Conditioning room in front of all the ladies is not the place to do it. Your bro tanks, Beats headphones, and cocky looks at yourself in the mirror are not welcome! 

Finally...DO sign up to be a Rec Sports employee! The people are very fun, the scheduling is BEYOND flexible around classes and personal time, pay is great, AND you'll always be in a place to work out before or after! http://www.iurecsports.org/job_opp_sessions

• IU works out!
• Avoiding The Freshman 15 and Staying Healthy
• Exercise, Exercise, Wiggle my Toes, Wiggle my Nose. Ideas to Get Moving in Btown!

xoxo 

Hoosier Blonde

I have been living in the U.S. for three years since August 12, 2010, and have witnessed huge differences among American and Chinese classroom culture. The examples I use in the article are my own classroom experiences from elementary school to high school, and I have no experience studying in a Chinese college or university.

The relationship between students and instructors determines the classroom environment. In China, teaching in the classroom is the most respected career. Students are trained to 100% obey their instructors. 

Students can never object to the instructor's opinion about the text book content, unless it was a slip of the tongue. If you have a different opinion about a specific topic, the instructor may give you a chance to share it once in the classroom, but after that, he or she will still require everyone to write the exact thing he or she taught on the exam. 

The Chinesepropriety also requires students to nod or bow when saying hello to their teachers every time they meet on campus. This rule applies to meeting all the faculty on campus, students must obey this rule, even to a faculty member who has never taught them a class in the past.

In America your instructor may prefer you to call them by their first name, but in China you can only call faculty member by their last name with a title like Mr, Ms, and Dr. To call a teacher by his or her first name is considered rude and inappropriate.

Students must raise hands to answer or ask a question, and they cannot speak unless picked by the instructor. When picked by the instructor to answer or ask a question, students must stand up to show their respect to the instructor.

Students do not always participate in the classroom. This is because the purpose of them is to sit in the classroom to copy and memorize all the stuff that the instructor teaches them, then to paste it on the exam paper and get a good grade. 

You may see all the Chinese students in your classroom mute their voice through the whole semester, because they have been trained not to speak their minds and not to raise any conversation that has an opposite or different opinion to the instructor's teaching. 

Exams in China are equal to memory tests. They test how well you can memorize the textbook contents and key words. Even the essay part has an instruction to limit the way you can show your creativity: limits forms of literature, structure of the article, and sometimes give you a title of the article then ask you to fill out the body part.

In America's exams, I saw a lot of exams with open answers. There is never an exact answer for the questions, not including the multiple choice or the true and false. Short answer questions and essays are set to check how much you understand the text and also your own meaningful thoughts about the things you have learned in this class. 

• Midterms in Peru!
• Bethany's Tips and Tidbits about Study Abroad

Hello! I hope you have all had a good first few weeks back at school! I'm already behind in homework - what else is new! 

Anyway, I'm interested in starting a series within my blog, simply titled "4th Street Restaurant Reviews." Even as a junior, I haven't crossed off one of the most important things on the IU Bucket List, which is to eat at every restaurant on 4th Street. Although I don't anticipate that I'll make it to every restaurant before I graduate, I wanted to share my thoughts with you regarding the restaurants I choose to go to!

I'm an avid traveler, which means I'm also jumping at the chance to try new food. Fourth Street is unlike any other that you'll find anywhere else in the nation - Bloomington's 4th street has the most ethnic restaurants within a block's radius, for those of you who didn't know!

As a Welcome Week Assistant, I was lucky enough to work on the Ethnic Dinner program from Union Street Center. Another Welcome Week Assistant, Allyson, and I drove to 4th Street to have lunch at Anatolia, a restaurant our team was considering to provide food for the program.

Allyson and I sat outside and were immediately showered with great service. The employees are incredibly friendly and enjoy a nice conversation with customers. We also got to talk with the owner, Sybil, and she is such a generous, friendly woman. She really enjoys when students come and experience Anatolia. By the way, the decor takes you to a whole other world. Not many restaurants can do that.

Anatolia serves Turkish cuisine. I had never had Turkish food, but I was so pleased. Anatolia's menu offers such a wide variety of entrees and appetizers, from lamb to chicken kebabs to shrimp. If you're a vegetarian, not to worry! Plenty of vegetarian options are also available. 

Anatolia's bread is also award-winning (rightly so!) and the tarator is impeccable. I've never fallen in love with food so quickly in all my life. I had never heard of tarator before having lunch at Anatolia, but it is so delicious! 

I also tried the tomato soup, and it was great! I'm not a lover of most soups, but I highly recommend the tomato soup! The chicken and lamb were also mouth-watering. The tea and coffee also get A-pluses. 

Bottom line: EVERYTHING was good. 

So, get a group of your friends together and go out for a meal. Did I mention groups of 7 or more eat FOR FREE?! Yeah, you read that correctly.

Peace and love - 

Gillian

For other posts about restaurants in Bloomington, check these out:

• Food in Bloomington Kicks Serious Butt - Indiana University
• My Top Picks for Eating Out in Bloomington
• Veggie Lovers: A Guide to Vegetarian/Vegan Eating in Bloomington
• Restaurants That Should Be On Your Radar (for When Your Parents Come to Visit)

As a prospective Freshman, or perhaps an overly curious high school student, you've probably heard about the First Year Experience and the IU Beginnings and wondered what EXACTLY that entails. IU Beginnings is a program designed to help develop connections with current freshman through trips and various activities. 

From hiking and canoeing to exploring the streets of Chicago, IU Beginnings trips help foster friendships with people who share similar passions with you. These trips occur the week before you move in, so no worries about missing class! (If you are an ambitious student like myself.)

For my IU Beginnings trip, I chose the "IUB Cultured" trip, opting to explore Chicago through various forms of art, such as music, theater, architecture, and even cooking! My classmates and I met with notable IU alumni working with the arts in Chicago, as well as attending various performances, including an outdoor performance put on by the  Chicago Symphony Orchestra and a performance of the smash-hit musical "The Book of Mormon!" Along the way, I made friends with amazing students who also shared an interest in the arts. 

Looking back on my trip, I realize just how influential these new friends have been on my life. Thanks to them, I have been discovering new interests I had previously never considered. We all still stay in touch and we are active in many of the same activities together, despite our varied backgrounds. For me, the IU Beginnings trip made me more excited and comfortable with the idea of college life and making friends and it was an experience I won't forget. 

How I Got Three Credit Hours in Two Weeks: IFS

5 Reasons I'm Incredibly Grateful for my IU Orientation Experience

Finding your Hoosier Home After All 

$197.28 - Alot of money, right? 

Well if you're a student here at Indiana University that is how much you have already paid for your student technology fee. You might be thinking, "Gee, that seems pretty steep for IU Secure!" but what you don't know is that there are many other technological services available to you as an IU student! 

Here's what's important: 

Not a tech person?  Lost on campus? That's okay, we're here to help!  IU has two 24/7 help lines that are designed to answer any and all of your questions! Want to know when the next soccer game is? or maybe the number for Pizza X? ASK IU can help! Any IU or Bloomington related questions can be answered, all you have to do is dial - 812-855-IUIU (4848)

Feeling like.... 

...before you rip your hair out or throw your computer, call the IT Support Center! 

IU secure not connecting in your dorm? Not sure how to connect your Xbox to the WiFi? The Support Center can help! Any technology related question can be answered by our staff. In person, on the phone, or online! 

• Walk up support in Wells Library or the IMU
• Phone number: 812-855-6789
• Or live chat

These are great for any questions you might have whether it be tech related, or just a general question about IU.  I use them all the time and they are very helpful! 

Get rid of those lousy thumb drives and start saving your files in the "Cloud"!  Box gives every IU student 50 GB of storage and is much more secure then those thumb drives that you forget in the computer labs. You can use this for personal storage or collaboration on group projects! Just log in using your IU User ID and pass phrase! 

Click here to get started

This is an amazing product that everyone can benefit from!  IU Anyware allows you to stream any software with out having to download anything to your computer. Say you want to use Microsoft Word on your IPad, you can stream this using IU Anyware! There is tons of software that you can stream!! Try it out! I'm sure you'll be surprised at everything you can do! 

Check it out here

This is app is great for everything IU! You can find anything from bus trackers to laundry availability in your dorms on this single app! Made for both Apple and Android!! 

Thanks for taking the time to read this! I hope these tips help! 

If you're looking to get involved with technology on campus, look into IT ambassadors! Here you can learn more about technology, participate in a mentorship program with UITS professional staff, and talk to other students about technology!  Click here!!

Follow UITS on twitter @insideUITS and "like" us on facebook! 

Want to read more? 

• Misadventures With Technology: Thank Goodness For UITS
• Four Reasons the School of Informatics and Computing Should Be On Your Radar

Once upon a time, I received information for my IU Orientation. Amidst all of the important dates, times, and various other requirements, there was a little postcard with pictures of happy people and text that read “IUBeginnings.” I remember glancing at it, thinking “that’s pretty cool,” and throwing the whole packet in my desk drawer.

As orientation loomed closer, I retrieved the packet to make sure I knew all of the correct details and whatnot. That postcard jumped out at me again, and this time I decided to look on the FYE website: immediately I was interested. I spent hours reading all of the different trip descriptions and looking at photos. I told my mom I really wanted to do a trip, and she was all for it. All I had to do was pick which one.

The trips are broken down into general categories and then into specific trips:

IUBAdventurous has outdoor wilderness trips including kayaking, whitewater rafting, backpacking, rock climbing, and zorbing (rolling around in a human-sized hamster ball).

IUBConnected and IUBCultured both take trips to Chicago, the former for the business side, and the latter for the arts side.

IUBEngaged focuses on community service here in Bloomington, and

IUBLeading does some fun leadership activities at Bradford Woods.

With all of the choices, I really had no clue what I wanted to do. I’ve never been to Chicago, the leadership challenge reminded me of all of the fun I had at Camp Tecumseh, and who could resist kayaking on a beautiful lake or rock climbing out in nature. After a solid week of staring at the website, I decided that I wanted to go rock climbing in Red River Gorge, Kentucky on the Roca trip. I had climbed in a gym in my home town for a decent amount of time, and the rocks were calling to me. I remember one guy who worked at my gym told me to be careful because the first time he went climbing outdoors, he loved it so much that he took a year off of school to be a climbing bum.

The day finally arrived for me to move in and leave on the trip, and I was so excited. We read through multiple waivers that mentioned the words “death” and “dismemberment” too many times, and we finally split up into two vans and hit the road.

As soon as we started driving, I knew I had made the right decision. We had four trip leaders, two in each car, and the ride down was full of non-stop hilarity. Nine students went on the trip, but the trip allowed for 12 participants. Even before we were halfway there, the four of us in my car were friends, playing catchphrase and sharing embarrassing stories.

We stayed at a nice little campground called Land of the Arches, and we were lucky enough to have toilets and showers available (a couple of the other adventure groups weren’t so lucky). We climbed every day, and every day I could feel myself getting stronger. The FYE leader also helped prepare us for Welcome Week and beyond by answering all of the questions we were afraid to ask.

The five days spent traveling and climbing helped us bond so quickly. While we aren’t the nine best friends that anyone’s ever had, five of us live in the same dorm, and I hang out with three of them regularly. Because we all have an interest in rock climbing and the outdoors in general, it was so easy to get along. Heck, we shared tents for five nights.

While the trips may sound scary or expensive, the leaders are extremely well trained, and the trips are really a bargain when you consider all of the gear and experience provided.

On the last day of the trip, all of the adventure groups came back to Brown County and had a cook-off. We learned what all of the other groups had been through (like not showering) and made fools of ourselves with funny skits and games.

The trip was such a great experience that three of us have even decided to take the leadership class required to become leaders of future IUBeginnings trips. There are also several other climbing classes I want to fit into my schedule eventually. If there’s one thing that I suggest everyone at least consider, it would be an IUBeginnings trip. There’s something for everyone, they encourage you to get out of your comfort zone, and I guarantee you’ll make at least one new friend.