December Favorites

December was a good month but it also felt like a whirlwind. I wrapped up my second to last semester at IU. Celebrated Christmas with family and friends. Started a brief two-week internship over break (more on that later!). Welcomed in the New Year.

Here's a round-up of some of my favorites that got me through the month of December. Check out my November favorites here.

Casual // I'd been on the constant search for a plaid button-up that could be layered under sweaters as well as stand on its own. I found this one on Black Friday but couldn't wear it until after Christmas. Ever since, I've been wearing it almost every day. I love the colors and the warm flannel is perfect for the freezing weather that is hitting Chicago right now. // Flannel Tunic: Lands' End

Fun // I am a major sucker for peanut butter and chocolate which means I seriously cannot resist buckeyes. I don't think I could ever make them on my own because I would probably eat them all in one sitting. But they are the perfect Christmas treat. My family makes them every year for Christmas (thank you, Aunt Kathy!) and I absolutely looooove them! // Buckeyes

Beauty // I have teeny-tiny eyelashes and always have a hard time finding the perfect mascara. Usually I hit up Sephora, but I was looking for something at a lower price-point this month. I heard people rave about the Falsies mascara and thought I would give it a shot. They make my lashes look super full and dark, which I absolutely adore. // Volum' Express The Falsies Mascara: Maybelline

Professional // I could just live in dresses. They are so easy to throw on and can be accessorized differently to create a totally new look each time you wear them. And in the winter, all you need to do is layer with a pair of tights to stay warm. I especially love these Spanx tights because they are super slimming. This month, I've been wearing two pairs at once to keep extra warm on the way to work. // Tight End Tights: Spanx

Wildcard // Lately, I've been watching a lot of 80's movies on Netflix. I never really watched any of the movies on Netflix before, but I wanted to mix it up a bit over break. My absolute favorite movie that I watched was Say Anything with John Cusack. Seriously, it's so sweet how much he loves Diane and will do anything for her. Why can't all high school romances work out that way? Other 80's Netflix favorites include Top Gun and Pretty in Pink. // Say Anything

PR Advice // Everyone knows that public relations is all about who you know. This fact is sad but very true. That's why networking is so important - as well as incredibly daunting. This article is a must-read for anyone who wants some tips on how to create meaningful professional relationships. // Forget Networking and Start Creating Relationships

Book // I'd heard so many people rave about this book and knew that winter break would be the perfect time to tackle it. It's technically a young adult novel so the book is easy to read, but really makes you think. I won't tell you what it's about because it's a little bit depressing. But one of those books that you definitely feel better having read. // The Fault in Our Stars

What were some of your favorites from December?

Make It Happen

Happy New Year! Ok, I know I'm a few (cough, cough, six!) days late here but it's the thought that counts, right? I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season full of relaxing time spent with friends and family. And of course, way too many Christmas cookies. I know I did!

I'm not usually the girl who makes New Year's resolutions. They always seemed pointless. I would be successful with my resolution for the first month, but then my determination would falter when February rolled around. But now, I really want to make the commitment to change. 2014 is a big year for me. I'm graduating college, starting a new job (hopefully!) and exploring life on my own. I want to tackle all of these things as the best possible me.

For that, I am making a resolution in 2014 to "make it happen." One of my favorite bloggers said this was her resolution and I think it's really applicable. Now, this can mean a lot of things to a lot of different people. But to me, it means that I am not going to let excuses get in my way this year. If I want to do something, I am going to get up and do it. No matter what. No excuses. Make it happen!

With this motto in mind, I have a few specific things I want to "make happen" in 2014:

Get a job // This is obviously a big one for me this year. While my first job will likely be an intern position (that's just the way public relations works), I'm still super committed to interning at a public relations agency I love. The internship hunt is so stressful and sometimes it can be easy to just go through the motions rather than going that extra mile to show employers you are an outstanding candidate. With school, other commitments and a never-ending stack of applications, there are always a million other things that call for your attention rather than re-reading your resume one last time to check for typos. But this year I am fully devoted to finding the best possible internship for me. Fingers crossed!

Enjoy senior year // I have given myself 110 percent every semester of college so far. It's always been a balancing act between classes and PRSSA and other organizations that sometimes my social life has been pushed to the side a bit. Don't get me wrong, I've totally been able to enjoy college life and have had a blast every moment of it. But often Netflix lures me in after a long week of school and I just can't be bothered to go out when the weekend rolls around. This semester is different. I plan to take advantage of my light course load and tick off more and more of the activities (in reality, most of these are bars and restaurants my friends and I haven't tried) on my IU Bucket List before May.

Run a mini marathon // When I was younger, I absolutely hated running but as I've gotten older it's become more tolerable. But I always struggle with staying committed to a running routine. It will last for about a month and then I get bored again and quit. But like most college students, I work best when on a deadline. With an end goal in mind (I'm thinking of running the IU Mini in April), I know I will be able to stay accountable. Not only will training help me with the race but it will also ensure I stay healthy this year!

Be more open // This can also mean a bunch of different things. In 2014 I hope to be more open to new relationships, new adventures, new ideas and new possibilities. Sometimes I get so busy and just act with blinders on but this really limits me from enjoying new experiences. As I transition from student to professional this year I want to make sure I am absorbing as many new things as I physically can.

What are your goals for 2014? 

Remember: it's going to be a big year. Make. It. Happen!

#ThrowbackThursday: College Round

I'm officially back home in Chicago today, which means winter break is in full swing! This also means that I am halfway through senior year. Crazy how time flies!

I've been especially nostalgic lately, thinking about all I've accomplished and how much I've changed over the past three and half years at IU. When I was in high school, I never thought I would end up here. IU wasn't even on my radar until the summer before my senior year of high school. I went on a campus tour begrudgingly and ended up falling in LOVE!

I could never have imagined the amazing friendships I've made here. Not just surface-level friendships, but lifelong, future bridesmaid friends. I've learned so much - about public relations, about life and about myself. I've grown as a professional and feel confident that I will be pursuing a career I love after graduation. There have been ups and there have been downs but I've grown stronger with each and every experience.

I thought I would share some pictures from the last three and half years to take you along the journey with me. Hope you enjoy this as much as I did putting it together!

Freshman year // One of my closest friends, Linden. We met freshman year and have been inseparable since. Between you and me, it was pretty tricky to find a good picture from freshman year. For some reason, awful selfies were a pretty common thing that year.

Freshman year // This was New Year's Eve with my best friends from high school. From left, Arianna, me, Kristin and Katie. So thankful that we all are still such good friends now!

Freshman year // First Little 500 experience! Clockwise from left: my friend Claire, me, Linden, and Kelly. This picture still makes me laugh - although I'm not sure why we were doing this!

Sophomore year // Love when my parents got to visit for Parent's Weekend. Here we are in Brown County.

Sophomore year // This lovely picture (hint: we are at the Supreme Court in D.C.) marks the start of my friendship with my current roommate, Carmen. So presh!

Summer after sophomore year // Love, love, love my summer in London crew. Here's the group in Stonehenge. Can we all go back?! Like, now!

Summer after sophomore year // This picture basically summarizes a typical night in London. Laughing over Pimms with two amazing friends, Kourtney and Haley.

Junior year // Love my PRSSA girls (Kate, Carly, me and Kaleigh) at National Conference in San Francisco. A truly amazing trip!

Junior year // A great day in the city with these wonderful IU friends. From left: Matt, Kourtney, Mike Mack and me.

Junior year // Carmen and me in Atlanta for our second Media LLC trip together.

Summer after junior year // So lucky to become FHriends with this girl. Glad we can keep the fun going at IU, Jessica!

Summer after junior year // Loved all my Contiki friends but especially these ladies: Haylee, Katie and Anna! Glad I could experience the west coast with you all.

Senior year // Seriously adore "the company" - Nick, Carmen and Anu. I'm going to miss you crazy kids!

Senior year // I don't know what I would be without my PRSSA family. So thankful for all of these ladies. Loved taking on National Conference and Philly with you!

Senior year // Seriously grateful to have a friend like you, Carms!

What are some of your favorite moments from college?

Holiday Party Dresses

Most of the holiday parties in college involve scouring through Goodwill to find an oversized ugly Christmas sweater. Don't get me wrong, this tradition is super fun and not to mention, comfy! But it also doesn't give a girl the opportunity to get all dolled up. I love that special occasion that allows me to throw on a fancy dress and rock a smokey eye. In case you are lucky enough to score an invite to one of these occasions this holiday season, I rounded up a few fun cocktail dresses. Whether you are a classy girl or a party girl (or a little bit of both), you are sure to love some of the options below.

One // I love, love, LOVE this dress. This is a very 60's look that would look fab with a voluminous blow-out. The dress is conservative enough (read: long enough) to wear to a work holiday party yet still fun enough to show your unique personality. // Dot Mesh Bodice Dress: Eliza J via Nordstrom

Two // Every girl needs a red dress to make her feel like she can tackle anything. This one-shouldered number is a fun twist on the classic. Plus the beading detail on the side is thinning as well as festive. // Beaded One Shoulder Satin Dress: Eliza J via Nordstrom

Three // This silk chiffon number comes in a wide range of colors, but I'm really loving it in "rich peacock." I could see this emerald gown sticking around in your closet for years because of its universal shape. Perfect for any occasion! // Nadia Dress: J.Crew

Four // Normally I stray away from velvet, probably because it reminds me of dresses from my childhood, but there's something about this navy look that just makes me happy. The conservative shape will keep you warm but is also fun enough for the holidays. It would be great for church on Christmas Eve. Grandma would definitely approve...in the best possible way! // Velvet Blouson Dress: J.Crew

Five // Every party girl needs a pop-of-color dress to steal the show. This classic bubble-gum pink shade will make you stand out in a sea of LBDs. Plus, the drape front and exposed zipper in the back keep the look modern. // Drape Front Sleeveless Dress: L'Agence

Six // Chevron is everywhere now. Add sequins to the equation and I'm totally in. Plus, the sleek shape slims over your curves, creating a defined waist that is super flattering. // Chevron Sequin Dress: Dress the Population via Nordstrom

Seven // As you probably have realized by now, I adore a good fit and flare dress. This golden sequin number would be perfect for New Year's without being too flashy. Throw on a pair of black tights underneath along with black pumps and you are ready to hit the town. // Strapless Sequin Dress: Jill Stuart via Nordstrom

Eight // We all need a go-to black dress in our wardrobe. This dress fits the bill but with a twist. You have to check out the mesh paneled back that gives the figure-hugging number a futuristic look. This isn't your mom's LBD. // Levinson Dress: Elizabeth and James

What will you be wearing to the holiday party this year?

P.S. In case you need a boost to your holiday spirit, check out this video of a magical Christmas piano in Chicago's Union Station. The crowd's reaction is priceless!

Gift Guide for Dad

I was talking to my roommate the other day and we both agreed that the hardest person to shop for is our dads. Most of the time, the default present for my dad is clothing. While functional, clothes aren't always the most exciting gift to unwrap on Christmas morning. One of my favorite Christmas presents that I got my dad was a pillow that said, "Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." While the sentiment is cheesy, there's a lot of truth to it. Plus, I was 10 and bought it with my own money. For the other Daddy's girls who might be struggling to find the perfect present, I gathered some options that are sure to put a smile on Dad's face.

One // Dad likes to be cozy too (I know mine does!). This robe will be sure to keep him warm on those chilly winter mornings. // Flannel Robe: $85 (plus 30% off!)

Two // If your dad plays the guitar like mine, this is the cutest gift. You can personalize your own message to be engraved on the pick, but I love the cheeky message shown above, "Couldn't pick a better dad." So sweet! // Personalized Brass Guitar Pick: $20

Three // What Dad doesn't have their favorite sports team? If you're in college, this is a perfect time to get your dad suited up in your school's gear. My dad went to the University of Michigan and is a die-hard Wolverine so it always melts my heart when I see him in IU apparel. That's true love! // Indiana Basketball Hat: $17.99

Four // Ever since my dad got a touch screen phone, he's been glued to that thing non-stop. As a result, he's been exploring social media more but I'll spare you the details of the tutorials I've been giving him - he still doesn't really understand Twitter. Now Dad can update his status and keep his fingers warm in these gloves with an electronic tip in the thumbs and forefinger. // North Face eTip Gloves: $45

Five // Make Dad shine at his work golf outing with these golf balls that reduce slices and hooks (which I think is a good thing) to improve his game. No one will know his little secret! Plus, they are banned by the United States Golf Association which means they are pretty BA in my book. // Hook and Slice Reducing Golf Balls: $34.95

Six // Dad will never misplace his keys again when he uses these Bluetooth tracker stickers that allow him to track lost items with the accompanying iPhone app. He can track up to 20 items at once within a 100-foot range. Technology at its finest!  // Bluetooth Location Finder: $49.99

Seven // If Dad follows the Humans of New York blog, he will love this book that is perfect for an office or coffee table! The book captures real New Yorkers and their stories to feature the true spirit of the city. // Humans of New York Book: $18.35

Eight // For the Dad that loves TV, this device brings online entertainment like Netflix, Hulu Plus, YouTube, HBO and more, onto his HDTV. Now the whole family can enjoy the new season of House of Cards in February. // Chromecast: $35

Nine // I have yet to find a Dad (or anyone) who doesn't find Seinfeld HILARIOUS. Help him relive his favorite episodes with this boxed set of the entire series. He will love you forever. // Seinfeld The Complete Series: $84.94

Ten // My dad is master of the grill in our house. And every guru needs his proper set of tools. This is a gift the whole family will benefit from this summer. I can just smell the burgers now! // Stainless Steel Master BBQ Tool Set: $82.39

Eleven // Treat your dad to a gift card from his favorite restaurant. Bonus points if you go to dinner with him. Not only will you get a free meal, but some of my favorite conversations with my dad happened over a meal. For my dad, I'd get a gift card to Wildfire. Yum! // Lettuce Entertain You Gift Card: $75

Twelve // Help wake Dad up with an adorable silhouette mug for his morning cup of joe. You can submit your own picture of you as a kid to make it truly special. // Personalized Silhouette Mug: $40

P.S. Check out my other gift guide for your girl friends. Plus, everything is $35 and under!

What will you be getting Dad for the holidays?

PR Prep: Winter Break To-Do List

It's finals week for me which means I'm counting down the days until I will be home for the holidays! I'm so excited to catch up on TV (per my friend's suggestion, The Good Wife is on my list!), do some reading for fun and reunite with friends - including my Contiki roommate, Hayley who is stopping by Chicago on her way home to Australia. But don't let these three weeks of freedom slip away without being (slightly) productive. It can be tempting to push aside the job/internship hunt while you are on vacation-mode, but this is the perfect time to get down to business! Here are some tips for getting your professional self into gear over winter break.

One // I second all of the ideas in this PRSSA Progressions post from 2011. For tips on how to create your own business cards, check out how I made mine in October.

Two // Winter break is the perfect time to schedule informational interviews. Last year, I knew I wanted to intern in Chicago and was lucky enough to live near the city to do informational interviews over the break. Identify some agencies or companies you would like to learn more about. Once you have this list, try to find a way to meet someone from these companies. Reach out to family or friends or check out your school's alumni directory to find connections. Ask your contact if they are able to meet for about 20 minutes to grab a cup of coffee and chat. Informational interviews are great opportunities to learn if an agency is a good fit and hear about the work they do. Plus, when it comes to hiring, having a connection always helps you stand out from the pack!

Three // Just like your family sends out Christmas cards each year, the holidays are a perfect time to follow up with professionals. Drop your past intern supervisor a short note about what you've been up to and wish her a happy holidays. Sending a hand-written note will show that you care and this is also a perfect opportunity to remind her that you are looking for a job in May. This ensures you are still on her radar but in a subtle, just-thinking-of-you way. For the perfect cards, check out my post on professional stationery options.

Four // I'm a super-nerd and over Thanksgiving I created an Excel spreadsheet of all of the agencies I want to apply along with their application deadlines and the materials I have to submit. This helps keep me organized when it comes time to actually apply in January and February. Making an application checklist now will help you stay focused on what you need to accomplish while keeping you mindful of due-dates! I also included a column for contacts at the agency that I might want to alert when my application is submitted. That way your connection knows to look for your name in the stack of hundreds of applicants.

Five // It seems that all I've been doing lately is updating my resume. Winter break is the perfect time to put the finishing touches on your resume so that it is ready to be sent out at the drop of a hat. If you already have some agencies in mind, you might want to tailor each resume for that particular agency. For instance, some agencies run their resumes through a machine that searches for specific keywords. To ensure your resume gets to the next level, use the same words from the job listing in your resume to show that you have the necessary skills to succeed at their company. If you have time, start tackling the ever-dreaded cover letters as well.

Six // Winter break can also be a good time to clean up your online presence. Create an online portfolio with relevant work samples and information about your professional experiences. Check out mine here! Start a blog about something you are passionate about to showcase your writing skills. Update your Linkedin profile with relevant experience. Google your name to make sure that only the good things come up. Clean up your Twitter account, or create a whole new account for professional purposes. These are all things employers check out during the hiring process so you want to make sure that you are putting your best foot forward before you even come in for an interview.

Seven // Make sure to save some time to have fun as well! Enjoy time with family and friends, eat lots of food and snuggle up on the couch. Rejuvenate now so that you can tackle spring semester and the ensuing job search with ease!

What will you be doing over winter break?

$35 and Under Gift Guide: Gal Pal Edition

I've got to admit, the holidays are one of my favorite times of the year. While the weather has been anything but desirable, it has been so much fun lately to come home and snuggle up under a nice warm blanket with some hot chocolate. The holidays also mean: GIFTS! Which can be both stressful and fun to find. I rounded up a few options for your girlfriends this holiday season. I can imagine gifting basically every single item on this list to one of my friends (and potentially keeping a few for myself!). Plus, they are all $35 and under, so you won't be caught on the naughty list for over-spending this December.

One // What girl does not love lounging in a comfy pair of fleece pajama pants? This fun red polka dot pair is perfect for the holidays. // Fleece PJ Pants: $7 (on super sale!)

Two // I know a lot of preppy friends that would "love" this twist on the classic pearl earrings. Get it? // Love Studs: $22

Three // Do you have that friend who's always in need of a hair tie or stain remover? I know I do! This sleek pouch has 21 beauty necessities for when she's in a pinch. // Skinny Minimergency Kit: $24

Four // Your friend will never misplace her keys again when they are on this cute calf hair key fob. Bonus points for being easy to find in her purse! // Key Fob: $22.50

Five // For the wine connoisseur in your friend group. It's like a sippy cup for adults! // Vino 2 Go Cup: $16

Six // Not only is this journal a super vibrant color, it also has advice every girl can live by. Life's short, anyways! // Eat Cake For Breakfast Journal: $24

Seven // Help your over-stressed friend unwind with this decadent assortment of body washes (like frosted lemon cake) that are almost good enough to eat. Even better? The calories don't count! // Baked with Love Philosophy Body Wash Set: $24

Eight // For your eco-friendly gal pal, these candles contain no additives or chemicals yet smell (and look) just as good as any alternative. // Joya Candle: $25

Nine // Don't let your friend be seen at the holiday party without festive nails. These four shades are sure to dazzle. // Essie Winter 2013 Nail Polish Collection Cube: $17

Ten // A must-have for the hostess with the mostest. Help her home shine with these adorable multi-colored glitter coasters. // Glitter Coasters: $35

Eleven // Every gal needs a cute, teeny pouch to throw in her purse. Whether it holds lip gloss, loose change or tampons (am I right?!), no one will know. // Monogram Pouch: $24

Twelve // For those times when she just wants to say "ciao," this adorable stationery set is perfect for the sophisticated lady. // Hello Darling Stationery: $19.95

Thirteen // The cool tones in this scarf will go with everything in your friend's closet. With a bunch of different colors available online, try to find one that matches her favorite coat. // Infinity Scarf: $20

Fourteen // This cute watch will help your globe-trotting friend relive her travels (and think of you) whenever she checks the time. An excellent idea for the girl you studied abroad with. // Around the World Watch: $34

Fifteen // You must get this adorable iPhone case right meow for your feline-loving friends. It is just purrr-fect. // Cat Face iPhone Case: $14

Sixteen // Isn't every great friendship "a beautiful mess?" Well, maybe those are just my friends...and of course I say that with love! // A Beautiful Mess Dishtowel: $14.95

What are you giving your best girlfriends this year?