SMC Hacks

Hey there! Going into senior year at SMC I'm a Social Ambassador which means I will be posting on this blog about anything and everything on SMC, Burlington, college and the every day life of an SMC student. If you have any questions or need any help with anything don't hesitate to ask! At the bottom of every page I post there is my social media tags and usernames if you want to reach me! (or see me post the numerous pictures of my dogs because I am literally obsessed with them!) I still feel weird saying I'm a senior, pretty sure I just lived in Lyons 4 North not that long ago. Whether this is your first semester or your coming back to campus after the summer there some important things about you should know about campus! These are things you might not have known or heard about when you first got here a few days ago:

1. Einstein's - Every semester each student has $25 on their knight card to spend on some good coffee & snacks! I would advise to try not to spend it the first week though because when finals come around you are gonna most likely want a coffee fix!

2. Musical buildings - So over the summer some offices and majors moved to different spaces so make sure to check the updated list that was put in everyone's mail box to help you find where they are. Example: Health Services is now in the Bergeron building next to the tennis courts.

3. Church Street - Church street is an awesome place to find everything from the little shops to the mall. Check this week for decoration deals such as half off tapestries!

4. FOOD - So for all you full meal planners you get unlimited swipes in the dining hall which basically means you can go to Alliot as many times in one day as you want. Rule to remember though you are not allowed to bring food out unless it is a banana or an apple, I swear if you get caught Rosemary will find you.

5. Textbooks - Never never never resort to ONLY the school store for textbooks!!! There are so many places such as Amazon, Chegg and other sites than you can buy used books or rent books to save some money!

6. Decorating - There are many a tricks to decorating the dorm rooms without damaging the walls! Command strips are a go to for hanging things up and organizing closets. Also I would recommend waiting to assess the room situation to see what containers are needed. I have used the same containers the past two years for clothes and this year I went out to get another book shelf - like container to create more storage space!

7. People make the place - SMC has so many resources for students so don't hesitate to taking advantage of them! From advisers to counselors to the different departments there to help students. Also the professors are great and are wicked helpful when you may feel like you are struggling in class or falling behind.

I would also recommend looking at Pinterest for some diy projects that are low cost and add to any room! The beginning of the year always disorganized and may feel chaotic because everything needs to get organized and come together but give it a week or two and everything will come together! Amidst everything coming together enjoy the time with friends and being back at SMC!

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31

Internship - Infinite Events

Coming back to Rhode Island for the summer I'm fortunate enough to have gotten the opportunity to be an intern with a Wedding & Event Coordinator. I have been interning with Infinite Events for the past few months have gotten a lot of experience in seeing what goes into coordinating weddings and events. The company which is owned by my boss, Erica Trombetti, "provides full scale professional planning and coordination for a range of events,"(source), particularly weddings and candy stations.

Being an intern, I've been able to see the behind the scenes and day-of work that goes into these events. From helping with background work in the office to seeing what goes into a full day coordination, I love that I've seen a bit of everything! At Infinite Events you can purchase different packages based on what best fits your event. For example, couples out of state tend to buy the Full-Planning Package because they are unable to attend meetings with vendors or able to come to Rhode Island often when planning their wedding. Other couples may choose just to have Day - of Coordination Package because they wanted to do a lot for the wedding themselves as far as decor, but do not want to worry about anything on their wedding day! Also as an intern, on the day of a ceremony we get to either be the bridal attendant or help with set up. Both jobs are interesting because as a bridal attendant you get to help and talk to the bride before the ceremony while setting up you get to see everything come together.

One interesting aspect I have found in working weddings is that each is unique and different being full of character. Its not the same routine every day, its different types of events and styles. Getting to see it come together on the day of is my favorite part. Even though all the same steps are taken in making the day of the event successful, I have gotten to see some beautiful spots and amazing places around the area. Its a great occupation in that the hard work pays off seeing everyone enjoy the day and every event you get to work being unique from the next.

Another part of my internship I really enjoy is the networking aspect. Every wedding and event is different where you work with different vendors and network with so many people. Rhode Island is a small state mind you but the amount of people I have gotten to meet and work with in the industry is awesome! I have also enjoyed getting to work with everyone at Infinite Events. Erica and everyone is great and I can very much tell you I do not want my internship to end! I get excited to go to every event and all that I have learned this summer I plan to take with me from here on out!

Thank you for everything Infinite Events! For an amazing summer, for helping me get my foot in the door by getting a lot of experience in the industry and for the opportunity to work with you! I am excited to head back to school and Vermont, but you know you are in a great place when you are bittersweet about leaving!

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31