A Ticket to Ride: I'm heading across the pond!

I have never been outside of the continental United States. My mom grew up in Wisconsin and my dad grew up in New Jersey and I grew up in California. The only vacations we ever go on are to visit family in other states. Don't get me wrong, Wisconsin summer storms are beautiful and the Jersey shore can be fun, but ever since I was little, I have been dying to travel abroad and explore the world. Now, I finally have that opportunity and I want to be able to take full advantage of the fact that the world's epicenters of culture will be at my doorstep.

In just a few short weeks, I will begin my 6-month adventure of studying abroad at Oxford University, Worcester College. On January 5th, I will fall asleep in the States, and on the 6th, I will wake up in England ready to experience a new way of learning and living. Over the course of my study abroad trip, I will spend two 8-week terms at Oxford and one 6-week break traveling through Europe. Not only will I get to expand my intellect by studying at one of the most august institutions in the world, but I will also be able to become a student of the world as I experience new cultures and immerse myself in each country’s history. Studying abroad means that I get to learn more about myself as a person while I’m learning more about the secrets and history of the world.

I am most looking forward to exploring places in person, which I have only read about in books and heard about in lectures. I want to be able to fly to Madrid one weekend to admire the Arab Wall and take a train to Brussels the next to see where EU policy is made. Visit places like the Bohemian Valley in the Czech Republic and make new friends in cities like Amsterdam. Admire the grandiosity of the Statue of David in Italy, ponder the concept of art at the ARKEN in Copenhagen, and explore literature at the Mafra Palace Library in Portugal.

Specifically, studying at Oxford will allow me to challenge my current view of the American political system and bring back a new perspective to apply to my political future. Also, while abroad, I hope to experience different viewpoints and values. I will broaden my horizons and  I will be able to interact with several cultures that I would not have been able to otherwise, thereby making priceless memories and, hopefully, lifelong international friendships. I hope that once I return I will be able to understand more about myself and apply a new perspective to both my final semester of learning and my future career path. By studying abroad, I will be able to conceptualize concepts that were previously abstract and experience them in practice, and this is one of the greatest things that I could bring back with me.

I am ready to be challenged and all I have to do is get out there and explore.

If you’re interested in following my journey, check back soon. I will be posting updates from all corners of Europe whenever I can!

Fall Outfits for Every Occasion

The changing of the seasons is one of the reasons why I moved to the East Coast. I just love fall, call me basic, but it's a wonderful season. The weather starts to cool down, the leaves begin to change colors, and of course, it's election season. My favorite part of fall, though, is the fashion. The colors are gorgeous, the scarves are comfortable, and who doesn't love a good pair of boots.

So, in honor of the beginning of fall, I created three autumn-inspired outfits for three different occasions -- one that I would wear to my internship, one that I would wear out, and one that I would wear to class. Hopefully, these outfits will help get you in the fall fashion spirit!

This outfit is perfect to wear into the office. Dresses are so effortless and you can never go wrong with a chic textured pattern. Finish it off with a comfy sweater, patent loafers, and a nude lip and you'll be ready to take on the world. 

The cooler weather doesn't mean that you can't look cute on a fun night out. Mustard is all the rage right now and these shorts look fantastic paired with a tight black top and fierce black booties (and I can never say no to a bold burgundy lip).

One of the best parts about fall is that you can basically where a blanket out of the house and it's socially acceptable. When running to class you can be comfy and cute with a pair of ripped jeans, booties and a fluffy scarf. Top it off with a flat-brimmed hat and you'll be the envy of campus.

What's your favorite fall fashion statement?

-Marisa

A Definitive Ranking of Political Dramas

Can't get enough of this circus we are calling the 2016 Presidential election? Don't worry, cable can answer all of your prayers. I study Political Science, I currently work for a political organization, and I live in D.C.; it's fair to say that I have a slight obsession with politics. If I'm not studying PoliSci or working in D.C., I'm probably glued to a political drama. I mean, I did write an entire blog post just about House of Cards. But Kevin Spacey isn't the only one out there who is playing a corrupt politician. So, with House of Cards in the coveted #1 spot, here is my definitive ranking of political dramas:

1. House of Cards (Netflix) HOC follows the rise (and fall, perhaps) of the predatory politician Frank Underwood as he manipulates his way through power, politics and love and is a wonderfully addictive show. #FU2016
2. BrainDead (CBS) This satirical embodiment of the extreme political polarization in Congress might be one of the greatest things I've ever seen. A Hill staffer notices that there is something strange causing extreme partisan tensions among Congressmen and she sets out to save the government from the ultimate shutdown. Basically, it's political drama meets sci-fi meets satirical late night and it's fantastic.
3. The Royals (Hulu/E!) Just as in Frank Underwood's world, in the world of the monarchy, power is everything. This show, set in modern day London, follows a fictional British Royal family who inhabits a world of opulence and regal tradition that caters to any and every desire, but one that also comes with a price tag of duty, destiny, and intense public scrutiny. It's just as binge-worthy as HOC.
4. The Man in the High Castle (Amazon Prime) This is a fantastic Amazon Prime original that might just have one of the best pilots I have ever seen. The show is based on a book written in the 1960s that envisions what the world would be like if Nazi Germany won World War 2.
5. Newsroom (Amazon Prime/HBO) This show gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the production of a nightly, controversial newscast. Will, the show's host, is stubborn and outspoken but proves to be a dynamic character. It's a good, original show.
6. Scandal (ABC) This drama, based on a true story, follows the career of Olivia Pope as she starts her own crisis-management firm. I was really into this show for two seasons but then it started revolving too much around the love life of Olivia Pope rather than the political world of the "fixer" business. People keep telling me I should give it another try, though.
7. Veep (HBO) This comedic show follows the life of US VP Selina Meyer as she tries to pass legislation while avoiding the day-to-day political games of Washington. It's a decent show, but it's really not my type of comedy. I'd say it's more of a show for in the background than for an intense binging sesh.  
8. Political Animals (USA) While this show only had one season, it was a pretty good one season. The show deals with the issues of a former first family who is still trying to remain relevant in the ever-changing political world.
9. Madam Secretary (CBS) This show follows the life of the newly appointed Secretary of State, after the suspicious death of her predecessor. I'd say don't waste your time. The plot line was kind of interesting but I couldn't get past the terrible acting. 
10. Homeland (Showtime) This show follows Carrie, a rogue CIA agent, as she becomes convinced that a prisoner of war has turned into a double agent. In my opinion, this show is absolutely terrible. I can't stand watching actress Claire Danes who severely over-acts and the plot line is just all over the place.

This fall I'm looking forward to trying out Designated Survivor, Graves, and Notorious. Who knows, there might be a rankings update coming soon!

Be sure to let me know in the comments if you think I'm missing any shows or disagree with any of my rankings!

*Political dramas on my "To Watch List": The West Wing, Covert Affairs, Alpha House, 1600 Penn, State of Affairs, The Americans, Quantico

Packing Tips for College Move Out Day

It's a bittersweet time of the year - summer is approaching which means no more papers or exams, but it also means saying goodbye to friends and and this lovely Homewood campus. I mean, there's still like four weeks (plus finals) left this semester, but I know I'm already thinking about summer. I'm going to be at Hopkins but I'm sure a lot of you will be moving off-campus or moving home for the summer. Take it from someone who moved out of their dorm last year, it can be a stressful and time-consuming process. Between Homecoming, Spring Fair, finals, and the nice weather *fingers crossed*, it can be difficult to get everything organized and packed up in a timely manner. Where should you begin? What all do you need to do? Check out this list!

1. Figure out if anyone is helping you move out. My mom and grandma came the week of move-out and helped me pack and organize and it was lifesaver. Figure out if you have any family coming to help and you can manage your time better.
2. Find a storage unit asap if you live far away. One of the hardest things about being across the country for school is figuring out what to do with all of your stuff when summer comes around. Upperclassmen friends with houses or family nearby would be ideal but finding a close storage unit might be your best option. Look to see if other students want to share a unit with you and make sure to ask for student discounts!
3. Be very, very nice to local friends and buff guys. Moving out of your dormroom that's on the fourth floor is very taxing. Then you have to figure out how you're actually going to move the stuff from the dorm to a car and/or a storage unit. Strong friends and friends with cars will come in very handy. 
4. Make a to-do list. This way you can be on top of everything and nothing will sneak up on you. You have to organize, pack, clean, actually move out - the list goes on. Having all your tasks in one place makes everything less stressful.
5. Set aside items to donate. If you didn't wear it all school year, you won't wear it next year. Don't take up time and space by storing items you don't need. At Hopkins, Goodwill has trucks stationed around campus come the end of the semester so you can conveniently donate items.
6. And throw out things you really don't need. No, you won't need those thousand pages that you printed out for all your classes. Take it from a hoarder, lighten your load before you store everything and it will make move-in in the fall a lot easier.
7. Label all of your boxes. This should be a no-brainer but labeling your boxes will make a world of difference when it comes to move-in. It's also easier when you're trying to pack and have no clue where to put what.
8. Eat all your food and spend all your dining dollars. Finals is a great time to make sure you eat all of your perishables and spend your dining dollars on coffee and candy. Don't let anything go to waste!
9. Make sure you save time to clean. A lot of dorms will charge your account for any reason they can. Make sure all tape is removed, any hole is filled, and all your trash is taken out.

Preparation is key to a quick and easy move. Best of luck getting packed and good luck with finals! You got this, I believe in you :)

-Marisa

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Stylish and Office-Appropriate: Your Guide to Business Casual

Whether you have an awesome summer internship coming up or you have an important meeting or presentation, the key to success is a killer outfit. Business casual by no means translates to a boring, stuffy outfit. Business casual can definitely be fun and cute while still being professional. Basically, business casual is dressed up but not too dressed up which I know can be kind of confusing. But, do not fear! I like to think that I'm kind of an expert on business casual, so I've put together three outfits to help inspire your business casual fashion decisions.

My go-to business casual outfit is a pair of amazing patterned pants and a nice blouse or sweater. Pants like these take little effort to style and make you look put together and confident. If you are in a more professional environment, throw on a blazer or light cardigan, especially if your shirt doesn't cover your shoulders.

Putting on a nice skirt instantly makes you look more professional. You could go with a skirt like this or a more classic pencil skirt. A business skirt is a staple for anyone's closet, and if you stick with a neutral color such as navy or black, you can pair it with a variety of tops. Statement heels instantly make your outfit look more chic but be sure to throw a comfy pair of shoes in your bag for lunchtime errands or the walk to the train station.

I love dresses because you just have to add a sweater or a blazer and your outfit is complete. The dress pictured above is great because the pattern isn't too over-the-top, it has a high neckline, and the cut with the collar and belt make it look professional. This is something you could dress up or down depending on how professional you need to look.

Make sure you gauge the company culture before you wear anything too edgy or too casual, and remember that being overdressed is always better than being underdressed! 

Do you have a cool internship this summer? Comment below!

-Marisa

10 Reasons Why You Should Be Watching House of Cards

House of Cards isn't just a TV show, it's a way of life. If you haven't seen it yet, stop everything you're doing and go binge - it will change your life. HOC follows the rise (and fall, perhaps) of the predatory politician Frank Underwood as he manipulates his way through power, politics, and love. It's basically one of the best shows I have ever watched, and y'all know I've watched a lot of shows. Here are ten reasons why you should follow Frank Underwood on his journey down the rabbit hole. 

1. The acting.
2. Breakage of the fourth wall.
3. There's never a dull moment.
4. It's a show that plays the long game.
5. Everything is not always as it seems.
6. Frank Underwood is the epitome of an anti-hero.
7. Quotes on quotes on quotes.
8. You can actually learn about the basics of the American political system.
9. It's a rather bingeable show that will leave you hanging on the characters' every word. (Hello, spring break plans!)
10. They're all on Netflix so it's super convenient!

#soml

All it takes is a little push ;) Bonus - season 4 is being released in less than 24 hours! #FU2016 #gethype

If you're looking for other TV show recs, check out my post on 8 Shows You Should Be Binge Watching!

-Marisa

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17 Struggles That Only Glasses Wearers Understand

I love wearing glasses. I think they complement my face and my personality. I think glasses are great. But, they can also be a definite struggle. With the recent cold and rain, some of these struggles have come to the forefront of my mind. To those perfect-sighted people - I hope this helps you appreciate our struggle. To you fellow glasses wearers - cheers!

Yes, the blizzard was fun. No, I could not see anything.

1. Rain and snow are a constant struggle.
2. Two words: prescription sunglasses.
3. 3D movies are a no-go.
4. Buying a new pair is such a commitment.
5. Smudges galore.
6. Making out.
7. Remembering that horrible pair of glasses that you thought was so cool in middle school.
8. Putting on makeup.
9. In the same regard, trying to get your eyebrows on fleek.
10. Hairstyles are also a struggle.
11. The constant questioning of "Why don't you wear contacts?".
12. Lenses fogging up in any and every situation.
13. Swimming is always a scary thought.
14. Losing your glasses.
15. Over-the-ear headphones hurt.
16. People taking your glasses to see how blind you are.
17. The societal stereotype that if a nerd takes off her glasses she becomes instantly beautiful.

The struggle is real. Any struggles I'm forgetting?

-Marisa

What to Wear for Sorority Recruitment

I never thought I was the type of girl who would be in a sorority but rushing last spring was one of the best decisions I have ever made. While recruitment can be fun, it is also stressful and can be confusing. I'm here to help ease a little of that nervousness with a clothing guide for winter recruitment.

At Johns Hopkins, we have recruitment in January so that freshman have a semester to settle in and meet the different sororities; however, that means that there's a good chance that it will be mighty cold out. We have 4 days of recruitment: Ice Water (cute casual), Theme Round (business casual), Pref (formal), and Bid Day (white dress). Below you'll find a little guide for each of these rounds.

Winter Recruitment: Ice Water Round by marisaelle96 featuring flat brown knee high boots

All throughout recruitment, you want to be wearing something that makes you feel confident. Make sure your clothes reflect your personality (and are comfy for a full day of standing and girl-flirting)! Ice Water is the cute casual round. A nice pair of jeans with riding boots is a great choice for those in colder climates. I absolute love wearing flannels and I think the vest and necklace add great finishing touches to the look. This year, Hopkins is giving all the PNMs (Potential New Members) a shirt to wear for Ice Water, so make sure you accessorize so the sisters you talk to can pick you out from a crowd.

Winter Recruitment: Theme Round by marisaelle96 featuring cropped pants

Next we have Theme Round, at other schools it might be called the Philanthropy Round. This round is business casual. Don't be alarmed when you hear the word 'business'. Business casual outfits can be adorable and are actually some of my favorite outfits to style. You can't go wrong with a pair of patterned business pants. I recommend that you check out H&M if you're in need of a pair. These pants look great with a nice sweater and some boots or heels. Just remember the business does not mean stuffy! Your personality can still shine through and an outfit like this will help you stand out in the sea of other PNMs.

Winter Recruitment: Pref by marisaelle96 featuring fringe booties

On our third night of recruitment, we have Pref Night. This is the most formal night and is a great reason to buy that dress you've just been dying to have. PNMs wear formal dresses in any color (think Homecoming or Winter Formal, not Prom) and sisters wear black dresses. I would choose something similar to the dress above because it's cute, appropriate (keep it classy, you're not going clubbing), and in one of my favorite colors. Because of the cold weather I would opt for boots, but you can always wear weather-appropriate shoes over and change into your heels once you get to the round.

Winter Recruitment: Bid Day by marisaelle96 featuring a white dress

The end of recruitment is finally here! You've finished pref and you're about to get a bid and meet your new sisters! At our school, PNMs wear white dresses for Bid Day. Just keep it nice and simple with a white dress, nude heels, and a cute bow or necklace. You'll be meeting a lot of new people today so wearing something like a burgundy bow is a great way to help them remember you.

Good luck to everyone who is going through recruitment! Remember to let your personality shine through and that everything will work out for the best!

-Marisa

Top 5 YA Books of 2015

I love reading. I read quite a lot, basically whenever I have free time. So, because my reading list is so extensive and I did not have much free time this year, I only read a few books that were published in 2015, but I did read enough to compile a top 5 list. Without further ado, my top 5 books of 2015:

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1. All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven - Two high school students meet at the edge of the bell tower and become unlikely friends. They pair up for a class project that instructs them to discover the "natural wonders" of the state they live in. While discovering more about the world around them they are also discovering more about themselves. It is a beautifully intricate story that brings mental health to the forefront of readers' conversations.
2. The Anatomical Shape of a Heart by Jenn Bennett - Bex Adams has her heart set on following in Da Vinci's footsteps and plans to spend the summer before her senior year sketching actual cadavers and working at a local market. Her plans might not be as concrete as she thought they were, though. One night on the late bus, Bex runs into a mysteriously attractive boy named Jack. Both characters are quirky and lovable but they both have skeletons they are hiding from. Readers' will be rooting for the characters throughout the whole book.
3. Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon - Madeline has SCID otherwise known as the "bubble baby disease." She is allergic to the world and has been living in an airlocked house for the last 18 years, not once stepping foot outside. She had never really felt like she was missing out on much; she takes classes online and spends most of her time reading or hanging with her mom. She starts to question everything about her world when a boy in all black moves in next door. Yoon weaves an intricate tale that will surprise the readers at every turn. My only complaint is that I feel like the ending was a little rushed and kind of a last minute thought.
4. The Brilliant Light of Amber Sunrise by Matthew Crow - Francis is a teenage boy who is the narrator of this emotionally honest story. Francis' home life has never been all the great and he has had to live a rather independent life. He is planning out his years after school when he is diagnosed with leukemia. As his life is falling apart, the last thing on his mind is making new friends, but it is exactly then when he meets Amber, a fierce spirit who also has cancer. The book will have you laughing out loud and bawling your eyes out.
5. Carry On by Rainbow Rowell - So, this is not necessarily the greatest book of 2015 but it's definitely a must-read if you are a fan by her previous book Fangirl. The book is basically a rip-off Harry Potter so any HP nerds will see alarmingly similar characters, activities, and descriptions. However, it is still an interesting read. I feel like it's almost purposely written to read like a fanfic. Simon Snow, the chosen one, attends a school for young wizards (Watford's) but grew up not knowing that magic existed (ring a bell?). He believes that his roommate, Baz, is out to get him and that he also happens to be a vampire. The plot is rather simple but it has ghouls, vampires, and magicians galore as well as a rather interesting love story.

If you want to know what else I'm reading, check out my Goodreads profile at www.goodreads.com/marisaelle. What were your top reads of 2015?

-Marisa

My 2016 Bucket List

My 2016 Bucket List

Survive sorority recruitment.

Go Greek! Go Theta! (Image Source)

Spoil a little. 

Attend my first lacrosse game.

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Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

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Spend the fall semester in DC.

The Washington Monument!

Run to the White House when the 45th President is announced.

Throwback to 2013 East Coast trip!

Build up my blog.

Go to more concerts.

I love myself a good concert - Grizfolk was great!

Learn fluent Spanish.

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Apply for a study abroad program for spring 2017.

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What are y'all planning on doing this year?-Marisa