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

Summer with My Favorite Beings

When I say I have a puppy radar built into my brain, I don't joke. My friends and family make fun of me all the time because whenever we walk by or run into a dog, naturally I have to ask if it likes pets. When I am at work at the restaurant its even worse. We don't allow dogs inside the restaurant because of health code but we do allow them to be tied around the outside of the area (aka Candice gets to pet them through the duration of their owner's meal). Certain people are dogs people and certain people are cat people. After you spend a solid 15 minutes with my favorite beings on this earth, you will understand why I can't help but be a dog person.

Sally Stella and Rosie!

I currently have three golden retrievers. Yes, three...crazy right? You would think it would be a mad hosue but its the most fun! We have Rosie, 8, then Sally, 2, and baby Stella who is 1. I can tell you that they are all silyl in their own ways from sleeping upside down to barking whenever a car comes in the driveway but they are the biggest loves. I always wake up to Sally popped outside my door waiting for me to wake up and head to work. The funniest part of having dogs is seeing each of them have their own personality. Rosie is the cranky grandma, Sally is the snuggler and Stella will even start talking to you while holding a toy in her mouth to get your attention.

Its something I absolutely thank my parents for having us grow up with dogs. It teaches you a lot of responsibility very young and I can't even imagine what life would be like not living with a dog. Trust me I have asked my parents many time about when they come to visit SMC next year if they could bring them! You can only imagine the separation anxiety I had sometimes living in Spain for 4 months from them.

One of the things I miss most about Spain was being near the mountains, and this past weekend I got to take care of that void. A couple friends and I went up to Lincoln, NH to do some hiking and relaxing by the river. With busy schedules we just wanted to get away for a good girls weekend. We hiked 3 peaks in two days and I can tell you one of them was one of the most exhausting hikes and getting to the top was so rewarding. It was great to get up to the mountains and have a great time with great company!

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31

Nostalgic Update

Landing on American soil and having been back in the states for about over a month now, its easy to understand why I have not been as up to date on here! Summer is so busy! Basically a few days after arriving home and spending some time with the family (my dogs of course!) I started to jump back into work. This summer I am back working as a hostess but also interning for Infinite Events, LLC, a wedding/day of planning company! With summer almost half way through I am loving working weddings and getting my quick trips to the beach after work to relax!

I can tell you that being back in the states does come with some reverse culture shock. I couldn't believe that when I went anywhere I could get a cup or glass of water for free, or that the US dollar felt so thin to the monopoly-like Euro dollar. The funniest things stand out but it is nice to be home. I miss living out of my backpack and country hopping for a good chunk of time, but nothing is quite like coming home to sitting on the couch and cuddling with my favorite beings. 

I am lucky to say I have gotten to live in three beautiful places such as home, Vermont and Spain. For I am enjoying working weddings, people watching while working in downtown Newport because the tourists never fail to be entertaining and taking some relaxing time by the beach! Spanish sun gave me a pretty solid tan so I got the upper hand this summer, no complaints!

Also check out this article if you get a moment! This pretty much sums up the whole reason why you should study abroad and why it is important to travel: Get Out and See The World: Why Travelling is Important

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31

Traveling Tips: Packing

So you’re going abroad and your thinking "how in the world am I going to not only figure out what to pack for 4/5 months, but how do I fit it in a suitcase" From traveling throughout Europe and to different countries, here are some tips on how to efficiently pack for your time abroad! (And make it a whole lot easier!)

1. Best way to not only pack light but back efficiently: 3 BAGS --> 1 Suitcase, 1 rolling 10kg carry on bag ( or a duffle bag works great too! I found the wheeling small suitcase to be a lot easier!) and 1 backpack. The suitcase can fit 50lb or 23 kg max before you are charged for weight. Also having a backpack is prime because once you are abroad and want to go on day trips or travel, that's all you need! SIDENOTE: pack a good over the shoulder purse with a zipper for safety for everyday things!

2. Converters!!!! Check what country you are studying abroad and make sure you have the proper converters for outlets to charge your phone and computers. Also you are better off buying a straightener or hairdryer there because they are cheap and you can damage your straightener/dryer in the power outlets there.

3. ZIPLOC! - Vacuum seal bags by them are perfect! They don't change the amount of weight in your suitcase but they help a lot with organizing and creating space for more clothes and shoes.

4. Outfit on the plane - If you are worried about weight, wear all your heaviest clothes on the plane or pack them in your carry on. For example, my boots were my heaviest shoes so I wore them on the plane.

5. Locks - Most places are safe but for a piece of mind it is always safe to both have a bag lock and then a passport holder you can wear under your clothes or a money pouch. My mom immediately bought me one and even though I felt safe, I did use it once or twice just in case.

6. Extra set of clothes - I am not one of the first or last people that has lost their luggage, its a annoying feeling and I recommend to always pack a outfit and toothbrush in your carry on just in case it gets lost.

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31

Granada - Tienes mi corazón

 4 months later... I'm going home. The beginning and end of this journey is filled with a mix of different goodbyes and hellos. Leaving Rhode Island in January was pretty filled with goodbyes, especially nervous ones because I didn't have the biggest idea of what living in Spain was going to be like. The hellos, new people and first encounters in Granada were both welcoming but also frightening. My beginning struggles with the language let me tell you, not smooth AT ALL. And meeting everyone almost reminded me of when I moved to Vermont for my freshman year, making new friends and being in a new environment. Yea I was a little spooked because I went out of my comfort zone. Looking at it now, when I think about the person I was coming into the Granada and being the person subtly venting her "leaving her abroad experience" feelings to you via blog, it’s absolutely bizarre.

I came to Granada with hardly any Spanish, a stupidly weak ankle and as much of an open mind as I tried. And in 4 months, like anyone who has spent a semester abroad would say, Granada became my home. Obviously I can say that from living here but it’s more than that. It’s the routine I had here, my classes where even one of my professors called us her "ninos" (children) and was where they goodbyes were harder than I thought. Any place whether it be Rhode Island or Vermont that I have called home I have always been surrounded by a beach or mountain, being able to explore. Granada is no different. I have been to some of the most beautiful beaches I have seen here and even this past Sunday my friends and I went on a longer hike through the mountains (my ankle was not a fan of that one but so worth it!). For Granada being a city, and having some beautiful parts within it, it’s amazing how much nature is around it. I've gotten to explore a decent amount of Europe while having the opportunity to be over here but getting to explore around Granada is by far the most breathtaking part. My friends and I joked around while having a lunch break on the hike about how it almost looks like we got green-screened into the scene because it was that pretty.

Home can be a lot of different definitions. In different places I have gotten to see, my definition of home mainly refers to one thing: the people. This was more than true in Granada. Not the older ladies who would call me out on the street if my hair was wet or tell me "que es ropa de verano?!" when I was wearing shorts. Not all the gypsies, who after 4 months of seeing me walk by them on the street still every morning persistently tried to give me rosemary and tell me my fortune. But rather the people I met here. My roommates who without a doubt had some of the biggest hearts and were some of the most down to earth people I have come to meet. Who didn't mind that we would forget our keys, would never turn down an opportunity to go on crazy hikes and wholly accepted our love to chocolate and supported each other’s relationship with it. 

Coming from Rhode Island, Washington, Mexico and Belgium, a tri-lingual household with wonderful friends I will never forget. Hopefully I will be able to see your cities someday. And also in my group of friends, who explored and got cultured together wandering through Barcelona and Belgium, who still hung out with me after my 21st birthday and on a long boat ride back from Morocco were able to make each other laugh so much we prevented any of us from getting sick during the bumpy ride. You ladies are amazing in your own way, and even though I keep catching myself saying "y'all" and I didn't feel my feet after our walking ventures sometimes, I am more than grateful to have met you and cannot wait to see you again.

I would be lying to you if I said I didn’t have a hard time leaving this city. I stayed a week later than my program but left Granada the same day as everyone. I knew I would be staying in Europe getting to visit Rome and the island of Mallorca for a week before returning to the states.  But staying up my last night in the city with my friends not one of us was being calm and collected, and realized how much we were going to miss it. My departure from Granada was actually pretty climactic, which didn’t help the bittersweet feeling. After many goodbyes and the last goodbye to my roommate Sofia, I headed to the Malaga airport as the sun rose.

If you have the opportunity and the chance to go abroad, I’m not going to be tough and say you’re a goon for not taking it. Things happen, but there is nothing and will never be anything quite like it. And for that, I’m grateful for the last 4 months. As bittersweet as it is leaving, there are some people and my pretty adorable puppies I can’t wait to see. Hasta luego Granada y muchas gracias por todo!

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31

Studying Abroad

Since its the end of the semester the hot conversation topics consist of: "Bittersweet feelings", "How do you feel about being abroad now that its almost over?", "Would you have done it differently?"

What I have repeated probably over and over again subtly in each blog post I have written since the day I set foot in Europe, studying abroad is an experience far from anything else. If you have the chance or the possibility to do it, go. Don't hesitate and don't think twice about it. It will be one of the hardest things you do in ways you least expect, but it will be one of the best things you will ever experience. Being able to immerse yourself in another culture, whether there is a language barrier or not, is something that changes your complete outlook on life. From studying abroad you gain a new perspective on things: on people, the places you know and your world becomes a little bigger. "Broadening your horizons" is a phrase I use jokingly with people but in the most literal sense possible this is what studying abroad does. To pretty much sum it up this is why you need to go: You will become the best version of yourself from it. You will learn so much about yourself and how to jump out of the comfort zone you have had for the past 19 to 21 years. Even when you are filling out all the paper work, applications and all that jazz to get to where you want to go, you will have no idea what is going to happen until the day you leave.  Also when you are thinking of going abroad or are about to take off, its is 110% normal to be nervous. I would be lying to you if I said it didn't bite all my nails off or call home the second I got a hold of good wifi. Its absolutely normal to feel that way and for the beginning of studying abroad in itself. 

My friends and I have talked about how we felt at the beginning when we first got to Spain and we all agreed it was a mixed feeling because we hadn't gotten adjusted yet. Don't let that stop you and when that feeling hits, I promise you the first two weeks are the hardest and it gets easier! Classes help a lot because you get a schedule and they are also interesting too because they are sort of a hidden tour guide for you throughout the semester giving you information about the area and region you are studying in.

What I recommend, which makes it so more challenging, is to go somewhere where they don't speak English. Not that English speaking countries aren't beautiful and have a awesome culture of their own, its an entirely different experience going somewhere where English is not the dominant language. I can tell you plenty of cities in Europe where they will switch to English when they hear you make a mistake or don't complete the sentence correctly. But that's why being fully immersed in a place where English isn't the dominant language is so beneficial because it challenges you to learn the language and be able to get by in everyday life with the basics of that language.

No matter where you go, the best part of studying abroad is being able to explore. Whether the country you study abroad in is so large that you explore the whole thing or you go to Europe and are able to travel to many countries, its all brand new and this new place is literally your oyster. In 4 months (plus 1 week) when my semester is over, I was lucky enough to be able to visit seven different countries crossing two continents and see a whole lot of Spain. This is the other big piece of advice I suggest, save up as much as you can in every way. Cut back on things you don't need and save them for things you might want to do abroad. I saved up for a long time to come abroad and I am so happy I did because travelling is so cheap here. Even though I ate a lot of crackers and peanut butter sandwiches the past 4 months to save money while travelling, it was absolutely worth it.

Plan ahead, take any chance you get. I promise you its an opportunity you might not ever get again to go to a foreign country to live and experience their culture. It is the most bittersweet feeling leaving a beautiful place like this, but I have some awesome people to see when I get home! Take every chance and never stop adventuring.

Mi ciudad favorita

Facebook: Candice Kalil

Twitter: @CandiceLeeMary
Instagram: candicekalil31