Category: Colbi

I’m now a second-semester senior, and graduation is approaching faster than I would like to accept. I’ve had the most wonderful four years at Boston University, and I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences I’ve had. So, I would like to list out some of my most memorable moments — in no particular order — at BU to give you some inspiration on clubs to join, classes to take and opportunities to gain professional experience.

Interviewing Mayor Michelle Wu for a class

I was taking a class on TV reporting the fall of my junior year when I went downtown to make a video package on the Veteran’s Day Parade. Several local politicians were in attendance, and as the parade made its way to Government Center, my class partner and I spotted Mayor Michelle Wu. I was the one doing interviews for this particular package, and I knew I wanted to speak with her. So, despite some nerves, I went up and asked her questions. She probably doesn’t remember that moment, but it’s something I think about often.

Interning at places like NBC and The Dallas Morning News

I’ve had five internships throughout my time at BU, and they have all been amazing learning opportunities. I’m a double major in political science and journalism, with a minor in African American studies, but journalism is what I want to do as a career. In addition to my internships, I’ve also taken The Boston Globe reporting class where I covered the city of Newton for a semester and am currently reporting for The Worcester Telegram & Gazette through the BU Statehouse Program. The College of Communication has amazing courses that offer professional experiences, which will prepare you well for internships.

Studying Abroad in London

Yes, I went abroad and never stopped talking about it. I studied in London for the spring semester of my junior year and got to truly travel the world for the first time in my life. I interned with a local company, studied British politics and media, and explored not only the UK but several other countries in Europe! It was the most amazing experience and I would do it over and over again if I could.

Being Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Free Press

The Daily Free Press is Boston University’s independent, student-run newspaper. If you’re interested in journalism, photography, graphic design, podcasting or opinion writing, I would highly recommend joining. I know I said there was no ranking of my experiences, but this one may just be the most important. It set me up for success in my career, and I learned so much about journalism while being EIC. I love the FreeP and everyone who works there — we would love to have you if you’re interested!

Honorable mentions not related to academics or career

Hockey games, riding a BlueBike on the Esplanade, sitting in the sun on the COM Lawn, Warren Dining Hall’s stir fry, Marciano Common’s pasta, Nud Pob and kayaking on the Charles River.

I miss you already Boston!

The end of the semester is on the horizon, and I think I speak for all of us when I say I am so excited for winter break. After a long semester of homework, essays and Zoom meetings, I am ready to sit down and relax. But, before we get there, we have to make it through finals. So, I’m going to give you some tips on how you can end this semester on a high note!

First, stay organized. I keep up with all of my assignments and tests three ways: Google calendar, the My Study Life app and by writing down my daily tasks in a notebook (it’s nice to cross things out when I’m done). If you stay organized, you will be able to properly plan ahead for the things you need to do, which will help you avoid pulling all-nighters and unnecessary stress.

Second, take breaks. Whenever I finish long tasks, I try to take at least a 15 minute break to get a snack, watch a YouTube video or just take some deep breaths. I think it’s important to find a great work flow, but your mental health should be a priority. You are working hard and you deserve a break.

Third, try to make study groups! Find a few people in your class who you can hop on a Zoom call with and go over the information you need to know for your tests. You can even screen share Quizlets or Kahoots, which are great ways to learn virtually.  These peers will be great resources for support and some fun studying during a stressful time.

Lastly, it’s important to make time for physical exercise. You don’t have to go to the gym for an hour and run three miles everyday. But, you can go take a short walk or do some relaxing yoga. Exercise is always important, but it is especially so during a time when we are sitting down, staring at blue light all day long. Get out and get moving in any way you can — it’s a great way to clear your head and you will feel great afterwards!

Do all of the things you can to take care of yourself — mentally and physically — this finals season. If you need any additional encouragement here it is: I believe that you are prepared for your exams and are going to do great!! Good luck everyone!

My family and I always try to jazz up the new “normal” of life during a pandemic. One of the ways we stay entertained is by watching a new movie or series every night. Here is a list of my favorites (in no particular order) to help keep you entertained!

Den of Thieves

I know I said this list isn’t ranked in any particular order, but this movie is undoubtedly the best I’ve seen all year. It’s the kind of movie that you want to re-watch immediately after finishing it. It is marketed, and seems, like your typical action-packed bank heist drama, but if you don’t watch closely you’ll miss the mastermind of it all (it’s okay, I missed it too).

Waco

This is technically not a movie because it’s a docu-series, but I am including it in the list because this will have you absolutely shocked. It follows the downfall of a religious cult in Waco, TX. Watching it will make you feel conflicted in many ways, and I think that’s what makes it so intriguing.

Instant Family

I LOVED this movie. It follows a couple who adopt three siblings and adjust to the complicated reality of their new life. It is a heartfelt film, but also extremely hilarious. It will make you laugh and cry and want to hug your family. It’s a must-watch, feel-good movie.

Double Jeopardy

Double Jeopardy stars Ashley Judd, and we stan Ashley Judd in this household. This movie has lots of twists and turns and it’s hard to guess how the storyline will finish. I won’t give too much away, but it’s all about a woman who gets accused of murdering her husband. Did she do it, or was it a set up? There’s much more to the story than you can expect.

Molly’s Game

This movie is phenomenal. I will be honest, it can be slow to the start but once you get into the action, you won’t want it to end. It follows the at times unbelievably wild, yet real life of Molly Bloom who runs poker games for the most exclusive socialites in the country.

Honorable Mentions

The Florida Project

If you love A24 films, this is one you need to watch next. It follows the life of a little girl named Moonee who lives an often heartbreaking life that is masked by her still young view of the world. It’s beautiful and one of the most raw movies I have ever seen.

The Silver Linings Playbook

Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence; that’s really all you need to know. Romance, comedy, and real life stuff. Can’t help but love it.

The Lovebirds 

An action-packed comedy on Netflix! You will be laughing the entire time—highly recommend it.

BU’s campus has pretty much all that you could need: the gym, Target, Chipotle, and most importantly Einstein Bros. Bagels. So, I find myself not leaving campus as often as I should and getting stuck in the “BU bubble.” But, Boston is an amazing city with so many incredible places to explore! One of my favorite places is Boston’s North End.

The North End is also known as Little Italy, and has a fantastic selection of Italian food, pastries, and desserts. My go-to restaurant is Scopa. It’s a small, intimate restaurant with a great atmosphere. The menu has all your favorite classics like gnocchi, pizza, calamari, and spaghetti and meatballs. Plus, their complimentary bread is delicious.

If you’re looking to have some dessert afterwards, head over to Caffé Paradiso. I had my first ever cannoli at this cafe, and it was life-changing to say the least. I also got nutella gelato and which was PHENOMENAL. I’m still not over it! The staff is so sweet here, and you will often catch them watching a soccer game or two on the televisions.

Now, if you want to walk off some of those calories, there is so much to see! You can walk over to the wharf to get a breathtaking view of the ocean. You can also see some historical sights such as Paul Revere’s house and The Freedom Trail. You are also a short walk from the Haymarket where you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables.

If you keep going, you can end up at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. There are great stores to shop at, and perfect places for an Instagram photoshoot. And, you can actually go to the spot of the Boston Massacre, another historical sight.

Boston is a great city with so much history and culture to explore! Don’t get caught up in your dorm every weekend, go out and do some sightseeing. I can guarantee that it will make your college experience so much better.