Kate: How to spend this summer in Boston

If you love BU as much as I do, I bet you’re wondering how you can stay on campus or in Boston all year round. I have spent my past 2 summers in Boston working for BU’s Community Service Center through the BU Orientation summer leadership opportunities. The 2016 summer leadership opportunities include BU orientation student and program advisors, FYSOP coordinators, and CSC program managers and interns. Applications can be found here and are due January 19, 2016.

There are so many pros to working for the CSC or orientation- besides being able to live in Boston for the summer. The paid position offers compensated housing! You develop close knit bonds with other students on campus and become familiar with high level administration at the university. There is also a lot of opportunity for personal growth and professional development- you’re bound to find and become a mentor through a summer leadership experience.

During the summer of 2014, I worked in the CSC as a FYSOP coordinator for the children focus area. It was such a great experience! I loved spending my summer learning more about social justice issues in the Boston area and enjoyed preparing for FYSOP 25. I gained a lot of professional skills from the job, such as public speaking, report writing, working with a team, and setting and reaching goals. I loved working for the CSC so much that I spend summer 2015 working there as an undergraduate intern for the office. As a member of the senior staff, I learned so much about higher education and non-profit management. I loved getting to create opportunities for education, service and reflection and assist the team creating FYSOP 26.

So, if you’re looking for a way to stay in Boston, look no further! You may apply only for the free housing or cause it’s a way to stay away from your small hometown. But I promise if you work for the CSC or orientation, you will have the best summer (or if you’re lucky enough, you’ll have 2!) of your life, working with amazing students and professionals, and growing as an individual.

Hannah: An Oscar Speech of Thanks to BU

It’s with a heavy heart I’m writing my last blog post as a Com Ambassador, but I guess I should count myself lucky since that just means my heart is really, really full. Senior year came all too quickly. When people tell you college went by too fast – they’re not kidding. I guess the jokes on me this time! Four years ago, I can honestly say I had no idea what Boston University and the College of Communication would do for me.

Here’s one last monologue about some pretty gosh darn amazing people, places and experiences that made BU home and are now making it oh so hard to say goodbye to this second home of mine. And I look forward to see how these remarkable things will change somebody else’s life when they fill my shoes. Consider this my Oscar speech (in case I’m a few years out from actually making it onto that stage).

1.        COM Undergraduate Affairs – Every tour that comes through COM is told what an asset these guys are (trust me I know since I’m one of the people giving them) and it’s no lie. We are lucky to have one of the most phenomenal staff of advisors. From minor ‘stupid’ questions to figuring out how to add a second major mid junior year – not one of these guys has ever left one of my questions unanswered. Talk about some miracle workers!

2.       My Internships – The work experience and insight I gained from the hands-on intern environments at both Red Bull Boston and Allied Integrated Marketing gave me the enthusiasm and confidence it takes to enter the job force. Both companies worked to make me an appreciated and integral part of their office life and I know that’s not the case at every place so I must have hit the jackpot. On top of that I met a whole host of characters who encouraged me and pushed me to succeed at Boston University and beyond.

3.       The Professors – We all hear about our COM professor’s impressive backgrounds, but I don’t think we hear about their compassion and genuine interest in their students enough. Coming to a big University like BU can be intimidating, especially when you hear that COM101 is a class of 300+ people. I never thought I would make such meaningful connections with my professors (even in classes that size). From offers to proofread scripts, go over interview prep-work, or even just to touch base and make sure I’m feeling okay after a sick day – not all professors go out of their way to make sure they connect with their students, but BU’s definitely do. The college dean knows me by first name. I talk to my department chairs on a daily basis, and all of them sincerely care about my wellbeing and my future. That just doesn’t happen at every school.

4.       The Amenities – Huge shout out to the computer labs I’ve spent all-nighters in, the gear from FPS that made me look legit on film shoots and the studios for acting as a perfect backdrop to my college experience. Along with that – I owe a big shout out to Jamie Companeschi and Jose! Talk about some serious lifesavers in terms of technical difficulties. They’ve saved more than a few of my projects for me.

5.       The Extracuriculars – I’d be wrong if I didn’t mention things like WTBU, my sorority, the COM Ambassador Program, the National Student Advertising Competition, AdLab, book club, HerCampus and all the other out of this world programs COM offers it’s students outside of the classroom. There were always plenty of options and ways for me to make friends and meet people with similar interests.

On that note – the Oscar music is definitely playing to let me know that I’ve rambled on way to long, but I leave you with these few words. I hope that when it’s all of your turns to walk across that graduation stage that BU and the College of Communication have become just as much of a home to all of as it has become to me.

Donald: Diving Into The Local Music Scene

Fall is one of the best times of the year for music fans in Boston because tons of bands are visiting the Northeast while on tour, following festivals like the CMJ Music Marathon in New York City, which I had the pleasure to attend on behalf of WTBU. While you should definitely go out and watch bands that you may only get to see once a year, it’s important to also remember the countless bands who call Boston their home and play here year-round. Boston Hassle Fest, a weekend-long showcase of the best (and weirdest) Boston has to offered just ended, but don’t worry - I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite locals who you should definitely get out and see (probably playing some venue in Allston sometime soon).

Anjimile

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CZ7_UlNQd8

Puppy Problems

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Sqm2J3OlQo

Salty Greyhound

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcxXGWNPG9U

Dylan Ewen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1p9T-IN3H0

Vundabar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vpt-ft2up08

Joe: Stop Whatever You’re Doing and Listen To This

“I feel like every time I see you, you’re stressed out about something” is a real thing someone said to me today. Like, with actual words from their mouth.

But today will be different because the best time of the year is here. The ultimate party jams all mashed together it one beautiful and cohesive YouTube video. Except this year, there are two, which means double the fun.

I love Pop Danthology and all of his mash-ups, but this year has been S T E L L A R for music. I think that’s something we all can agree on. And if not, let me just remind you of the power of our Lord and savior Taylor Swift, the comeback kid himself, Justin Bieber, and the real Queen of England, Adele.

So as a tribute to the coming weekend and the last remaining weeks of the semester, turn it up with these awesome song/video mash-ups. You won’t be disappointed. And everyone will be satisfied.

Note: These are awful to study to. Do not recommend. You will just sing along the whole time and get nothing done. Trust me. But remember, good grades do not guarantee you a job. Leave room for some downtime. It’s soooooo important, I can’t stress that enough.

Until next time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep152idlUUA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b9_cBXGEdU

Hannah C: Cool People You Didn’t Even Know Went to BU (And Some That You Did)

If BU’s impressive list of notable alumni didn’t influence your decision to attend the university, at least now as a current student you can enjoy the pride that comes with knowing you’ll join an awesome network when you graduate.  It’s impossible not to know about some of the superstars that once graced the sidewalks of Comm Ave. That Martin Luther King, Jr. was once a BU degree candidate is a selling point on campus tours, and word on the street says Howard Stern offered COM a sizable donation to name his alma mater after him.  It is undeniable that BU churns out some of the most influential people in a number of different fields. And chances are, you’ve spent at least one conversation your freshman year trying to come up with as many famous alums as you can.

You know about Jason Alexander’s BU history and you’re aware that Uzo Aduba ran track as a terrier. But did you know the duo who founded Burger King or the lyrical genius behind some of your favorite Disney songs were also BU students?  Read on for a complete list of Cool People You Didn’t Even Know Went to BU and Some That You Did.

 

Other than MLK and Howard Stern, here are some other famous alums of BU.

VIPs You Knew Were Terriers

Andy Cohen

Bill O’Reilly

Ginnifer Goodwin

Julianne Moore

Geena Davis

Jenna Marbles

But you knew that already.  How about this next list?  They’re people you recognize, but it’s not common knowledge they went to BU.

Big Names You Didn’t Know Went to BU

PSY, “Gangnam Style”

Olivia Culpo, Miss Universe 2012

Tipper Gore, Former Second Lady

Nina Garcia, Fashion director of Elle magazine and “Project Runway”

Johnathan Goldsmith, Portrays “The Most Interesting Man in the World”

 

Also note these former BU students whose relatives are household names.

BU Alums Related to Cool People

Emily Deschanel, sister of Zooey Deschanel

David E. Kelley, married to Michelle Pfeiffer and son of Coach Jack Kelley

and Karen Kwan, sister of Michelle Kwan

 

Next, their names are not recognizable, but they did some awesome work post-grad.

BU Legends You Don’t Know of But Probably Should

David Edgerton and James McLamore, co-founders of Burger King

Howard Ashman, lyricist for Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid

Edgar J. Helms, founder of Goodwill Industries

Elizabeth (Sadie) Holloway Marston, creator of Wonder Woman

Helen Magill White, first woman to earn a Ph.D

and Mickey Drexler, CEO of J. Crew

 

And finally, since this is a COM blog...

BU Alums Killin’ It in the Media Industry

Bonnie Hammer, President, Sci-Fi Channel

Ted Harbert, President, E! Networks

Nina Tassler, President, CBS Entertainment

Allison Davis, Vice President, CBS Television

and Shari Redstone, Vice Chair Viacom and CBS

Jen: The Great Boston University Egg-Off

Egg sandwiches are a staple in my diet. I probably eat between one to three egg sandwiches a week. Nothing makes me happier than a toasted breakfast bread, with crispy bacon and, a properly cooked egg. No joke, I sometimes plan my day around when I can stop by a place to buy an egg sandwich. Throughout campus, there are multiple places to go and get egg sandwiches and it can sometimes be overwhelming and even disappointing if you end up getting a sad egg sandwich. Right now you’re probably asking, “So Jen, where can I find a good egg sandwich?” Well my curious reader, I am here to guide you to egg sandwich heaven.

Rhetts: If you have been to the GSU between the hours of 9:00am-12:00pm, you’ve probably seen a huge crowd of people lining up to get their egg sandwich. Here, you can order an egg and cheese sandwich on a bagel of your choice. You can also add bacon, ham or sausage. Rhetts’ egg sandwiches are one of my favorites because there is nothing better than something that is warm, greasy and gooey. Be warned though, excessive consumption of these egg sandwiches may lead to extreme belly patting and craving seconds and thirds.

Rize: Do you live in/frequent East Campus? Feel like you don’t have time to dine in the dining hall yet you need fuel before class? Stop at Rize for one of their amazing egg sandwiches! Not only can you get an egg sandwich (with either bacon or sausage or neither) on a bagel but also **add Aziz Ansari voice** on a croissant! I like Rize’s egg sandwiches because not only are they delicious and decadent, but they remind me of the egg sandwiches at Dunkin Donuts. So, if you enjoy Dunkin’s egg sandwiches, but maybe want to feel less guilt, hit up Rize! (Also, if egg sandwiches aren’t your thing, they have great egg burritos!)

Pavement Coffeehouse: Let’s say one day you’re craving an egg sandwich but one that is a little more on the gourmet side, Pavement Coffeehouse should be a name on your list! What’s great about Pavement is that there are many varieties of egg sandwiches on their menu. You can get one that is strictly bacon, egg and cheese on a bagel, or you can get one that comes with red onions, tomatoes and jalapeno cream cheese or one with sundried tomato, pesto and arugula. If you’re tired of the same old typical egg sandwich and want to try another variation, Pavement is the place to go!

Obviously, I’ve missed some other spots on campus (ex. Tatte Bakery, Starbucks/Dunkin Donuts, Einstein’s Bagels, etc. ), and I know I’m only hitting the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Boston-area restaurants/cafes with great breakfast sandwiches. However, if you happen to be around campus, and need to squeeze in a quick breakfast, lunch or dinner, these are some great  places you should check out!

Kevin: Battling that mid-semester slump

The mid-semester slump is real. The stretch between Columbus Day and Thanksgiving can start to feel like you’re on mile 25 of a marathon. Luckily, there are some easy tips and tricks you can do to keep yourself motivated and your spirits high.

  1. Go for a walk
  • It sounds cliché and boring, but give it a try. Stand up from that desk you’ve been sitting at all day, and just go for a walk. Doesn’t have to be long, can just be down the street. But while you’re on that walk, let your mind wander. Maybe think about the fact that in a month, there will be a new Star Wars movie. A brand new Star Wars. Directed by J.J. Abrams.
  1. Make your favorite food
  • There’s nothing like having your favorite comfort food on a cold fall day. No matter what it is, your favorite food will always put you in a better mood. Maybe it’s some mac and cheese, or maybe it’s some tomato soup as red as Kylo Ren’s lightsaber. Did you see that thing? Remember in the first trailer when he lit it up and we were all like “oh, ok,” but then the crossguard lit up and we were like “WHOAAA???” Yeah, we’ll get to see more of that in a month. Over 2 hours of it. How awesome is that??
  1. Go to Fitrec
  • It’s been scientifically proven that exercise will improve your mood and energy. It’s hard sometimes to get the motivation to go in the first place, it seems like the last thing you want to do is get all sweaty and tired like John Boyega was in that first Force Awakens trailer. Why was he dressed like a Storm Trooper though? I mean, obviously it’s been what, 30 years since the originals? So they clones can’t be the troopers anymore, but is he a rouge trooper? The later trailers make it seem like he’s a good guy, so maybe he was in disguise like Luke and Han in Episode IV?
  1. Hang out with friends
  • It’s easy to get so caught up in work, you forget to just get out and have fun. And nobody likes that friend who’s never around, kind of like how Luke Skywalker hasn’t been in any of the posters or trailers. Where is he? Did he turn to the dark side? There was that one shot in the first trailer where we saw R2D2 and somebody with a robotic hand, maybe that was him? He lost his right hand in Empire Strikes Back so it totally could be him, but we didn’t see his face so who knows. Also, how cool was it that they used the voiceover from Return of the Jedi? Super cool.

Esra: 5 Songs to Add to Your Playlist

I’m not the most musically educated person in the world, but I do know what I like. I’ve been playing these 5 songs on repeat for the past week (maybe two) and I think they’re definitely worth giving a listen.

  1. Blame It On Me by George Ezra - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Mt5d5hSyv8 

  2. Never Forget You by Zara Larsson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlARJAmytnk 

  3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5X5ZUvq5XY 
  4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thUXXhWdqd8 

  5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LwyWm6HiT4 

Perfect to add to your “walking to class” playlist (because we all know when you can’t catch the bus you grab your headphones and make the trek easier with some music).

Eliza: What is “El Niño” anyway?

If you have left your dorm/apartment/bed in the past week, week & a half, you’ve probably noticed that the weather is, like, seriously wack.  And we’re not talking crazy rain or early snow – no that would be almost normal.  We’re talking it was 70 degrees yesterday, and it’s November in New England.  For those of you that are new, that is definitely not normal.

So yeah, global warming is real – but people also keep throwing around this “El Niño” term to explain the seriously weird weather.  I had barely any idea what it actually meant though, so I decided to investigate.

It turns out that El Niño is “an oscillation of the ocean-atmosphere  system in the tropical Pacific,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  And it seriously can change the weather around the whole globe.

For North America, it means different things depending on where on the continent you are.  In big news, it tends to mean a less severe hurricane season.  In the Upper Northeast it usually means a drier and warmer than average winter – meaning less snow.

I guess our random 70-degree days could have to do with this warmer winter that’s coming our way, and after last year, that doesn’t seem like such a bad thing, right?  According to the NOAA, there’s over a 90% chance that El Niño will last though winter, so that seems to makes sense.

HOWEVER: The other major weather predictor of the world, the Farmer’s Almanac, is predicting a winter that will be VERY much the same as last year. (Read: Lots of cold lots of wind lots of snow).  With these conflicting predictions, it’s pretty hard to say what’s coming.  At least we can definitely say that these days are super weird, but not bad either.

Zach: Best of BU Burgers

Hello friends! The rankings are back! Today I’ll be ranking the burger places on our stretch of campus, because these are IMPORTANT things to think about before coming to BU.

I work rank from worst to best:

5: Burgerfi

The buns are too oily for my tastes, and the shakes are just thicker than tar, but I’ve heard amazing things about their quinoa burgers (if you are into that vegan kind of lifestyle). Their fries are blasé and while its a nice showing to have onion rings, they don’t pass my tests. Also this costs real money. DID I MENTION THE SERVICE IS ATROCIOUS? Do not go in thinking you’ll spend any less than an hour there.

They do serve coke. 

4: Dining Hall

They are fine. I would not say that they are bad whatsoever, but I also would not call them good. The plus sides is that they are *free* with a dining plan. Toppings are limited and the buns are a bit too soft, and the patty is fair. There are rotating options of fries at all dining halls, and those fries can range from “this is not a fry whatsoever” to “oh my god i’m gonna eat 14 plates”.

They serve pepsi, not coke, ugh. 

3: Sunset Cantina

I know what you are thinking? Sunset? The nacho place!? How is this on the list? But they actually have some very good traditional burgers! One of the burgers even has guacamole on it! OMG! The fries are crisp and good, and you can get those famous nachos as an appetizer (or desert nachos for afterward!).

They serve pepsi, not coke, ugh. 

2: Rhett’s

The looks are deceiving! My entire first semester at school I assumed Rhett’s would be disgusting… wrong! Rhett’s is incredible. They have a huge selection of burgers and fries, and literally ALL of them are good. (In the morning their bagels are TOP NOTCH!) They also have super long hours, for when you need to eat on campus but other places aren’t open. Did I mention this is on campus? So yes it is dining points but it is yet again free(ish).

They serve pepsi, not coke, ugh. 

1: UBurger

OMG UBURGER! I crave UBurger, I cry when I am at Uburger and when I am not at UBurger. I live, breath, and obviously eat UBurger. They have so many options (I personally get the A+ burger which feature A1 sauce and crispy onions!) and also some sweet salads. ALSO THE SWEET POTATO FRIES ARE GAME CHANGING. They also serve coke on one of those new ~fancy~ dispenser machines with a touch screen, AND GLASS BOTTLES OF COKE. It’s too much. I love Uburger. Also, the location is prime with one by Myles and one by 1019, so they catch both ends of campus!

NOTE: SHAKE SHACK DOES NOT COUNT! IT IS TOO FAR AND IT IS NOT GOOD! IT DOES NOT LIVE UP TO THE HYPE!