Quote of the Day

"Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world." - Marilyn Monroe

The Myth of Group Projects

Here’s a foolproof way to ruin a student’s day: assign a group project. It puts in motion the undesirable search of compatibility, in which you find yourself judging the others around you. Does the girl with the glasses or the one with the neck tattoos look more dependable? Do you let your friend join the group even though she’s a slacker? These decisions hold so much weight because your grade really does depend on it. This past semester, I took an Evolution class where the group project had been worth 40% (which meant a whole month dedicated to spending time with people I was not friends with whatsoever.)  In my head, I split the members into 3 categories: the ruler, the followers, and the rebels. While the ruler was smart, she made us all feel shitty with her remarks and demands of change. Since I was more of a follower, I ended up revising my part of the project more often that I’d like to admit. However, I was also part of the rebels in the fact that I didn’t care much about what we were doing. Sure, I did my work but was it my best? Probably not.  Unfortunately, there’s this growing myth that group projects stimulate social interaction, the ability to work efficiently, and the potential to make compromises. But really they are just about tolerating people and trying not to picture punching them in the face too often. Professors need to reevaluate and not use group projects as an easy way out. Individual work showcases a student’s ability and although it takes more time to grade, it’s the better option.  

 Until next time,

 Val

Look 10

Outfit: Damn Denim

Brands:

1. Maroon Cropped Tank: Forever 21
2. Button Down Denim Skirt: Forever 21
3. Floral Sneakers: American Eagle
4. 3 Tier Necklace: Forever 21

Quote of the Day

"People who love to eat are always the best people." -Julia Child

5 Ways to Float Through Life - College Edition

1)   Don’t Show Off

If you are one of those people who can write a 15 page story in one night then congrats my friend. Only needed one cup of coffee? Even better. However, for some of us, ideas don’t flow as soon as we open our laptops. Brainstorming is sometimes a must and not everyone will finish things at the same time. Go at your pace. Don’t be ashamed that a labeled “easy” assignment took you so long. The point is that you got it done in the first place.

2)   Fit in a Nap

College has it perks: more freedom, friends being in walking distance, and binging on the crappy food. But there’s one thing we all dread and it’s waking up in the morning and attending yet another tedious class. It’s strange that in high school we manage to stay there for 8 hours straight but the idea of sitting in a 2-hour lecture is mind blowing. Hearing a professor drone on for that long has a tiring effect. So, if you have time, don’t ignore that feeling. Give in to it. I’ve learned that a 20 minute nap actually can be effective (don’t get me wrong a 2 hour one does the trick too). I feel as though I’m more willing to do work as the guilt of previously wasting time motivates me.

3)   Sit and Observe

Sure, you’ve been told that your “young years” are for mistakes. But why not let other people make those? Let that kid who got caught plagiarizing inspire you to submit all original stuff even if it’s complete shit. Let that girl who drank too much inspire you to stop double fisting and keep track of your limit. There’s no reason to spend another night by the bathroom toilet. Just watch the ridiculousness that goes on and somehow you’ll find yourself becoming the mature one in the room, otherwise known as the mom of the friend group.  

4)   Reward System

Finally finished the paper that has been causing you stress for weeks? If the answer is yes, then go ahead and celebrate. Skip the dining hall and order a pizza (suggestion: split with roommate for a cheaper outcome) or if you’re low on cash, have a Lord of the Rings marathon. Point is: RELAX.

5)   Procrastinate the Right Way

      First thing to note is that we all do it. Procrastination takes a hold of the best of us and there's no way around it. So why not take advantage of that time you aren't using for homework? Maybe reorganize your closet, throw a load of laundry in or (if you have access to a kitchen) whip up a real dinner for yourself. Ignore the temptation telling you to watch a whole season of Prison Break.

Until next time,
Val

Quote of the Day

"Even if you're on the right track...if you just sit there, you'll still get hit." - Will Rogers