The Universities at Shady Grove (USG)

Monthly Mindset: Setting Goals & Affirmations

Posted on April 8, 2024 by Karen C

Have you ever experienced a sense of overwhelm and disconnection from your goals because life seems to be happening at a breakneck pace? In the fast-paced world of today, it’s a typical occurrence. But what if I told you that you can restore focus and control with the help of a small yet effective tool? Write affirmations and diary prompts here. These resources serve as your compass points, keeping you rooted in the here and now while offering a path toward individual development. Setting goals at the beginning of the month is a proactive way to develop motivation and self-awareness.

What are my three main objectives for the month?”
Establishing goals is an effective strategy for advancement and success. This exercise asks you to list your monthly priorities, whether they have to do with your well-being, career advancement, or personal development. Your chances of success increase when you give yourself direction and motivation through well-defined goals.

What did I conquer this month that strengthened me?
Celebrate all of your accomplishments, no matter how tiny. Think back on the difficulties you encountered and the barriers you overcame. Perhaps you overcame adversity, moved outside of your comfort zone, or handled a challenging circumstance with poise and resiliency. Recognize the fortitude and resiliency you have shown, understanding that every obstacle you get past builds your strength and ability.

I would like you to incorporate these affirmations and writing prompts into your monthly regimen. To strengthen our sense of support and community, please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. One month at a time, let’s set out on a journey of self-discovery and progress together.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged advice, Food, fun, Happiness, inspiration, Journaling, life, real world, school, Student Life, the Universities at Shady Grove, USG | Leave a comment

How to Pick the Ideal Streaming Service? 📺

Posted on April 5, 2024 by Ashlynn Battle

The other day there was a TV show I really wanted to watch, but did not have the correct streaming service for it. I impulsively bought one month and binged the series in one day. It had me thinking about how drastically different television is today. For instance, cable is practically gone and no one seems to have it anymore. Instead, there are tons of streaming services, and I wanted to know which one was best? Today I am going to discuss a couple of the most popular streaming services in the world. Let’s see which one is the best!

Netflix: Netflix is the biggest streaming service in the world! With its extensive library of movies, TV shows, and original content. Netflix is the streaming service that has become mostly associated as binge worthy. I personally have Netflix and enjoy that there seems to be an option for everyone.

Amazon Prime Video: I tried out Amazon Prime using a free trial for a bit, and I can say there were some nice movies I may be interested in watching, but I honestly didn’t see anything crazy on the app that I thought was worth keeping. Nonetheless, Amazon Prime offers a mix of popular TV shows, exclusive movies, and award-winning originals like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Fleabag.”

*If you did not know, you can get a free trial using your student email! As well as don’t forget to check out USG on student TV!

Disney+: I believe Disney+ is something that I will always enjoy having, because Disney was my childhood, and I really enjoy watching not just old shows and movies, but new ones too! The streaming service ranges from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. WandaVision had to be one of my favorite shows I’ve watched on the streaming service so far!

Hulu: I enjoy Hulu specifically for reality TV and believe it offers a diverse selection of content, including next-day access to episodes of popular series, exclusive originals, and a vast library of movies. Its ad-supported subscription tier makes it an affordable option for students, but I simply hate the ads when watching my shows.

I still think Netflix will always be my favorite streaming service. I just wish the variety was a tad bit larger. Nonetheless, whether you’re a casual viewer, a dedicated binge-watcher, or a die-hard fan of a particular genre or franchise, there’s never been a better time to cut the cord and dive into the world of streaming entertainment. Happy streaming! 🙂

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged advice, fun, inspiration, life, real world, the Universities at Shady Grove, tv, USG | Leave a comment

Embrace Change

Posted on April 4, 2024 by Destiney Smith

One aspect of our life that’s constant is change. Yet, many of us find ourselves clinging tightly to our comfort zones, afraid to venture into the unknown. Realistically, that is part of human nature. Most of us would rather stay within what we’re familiar with because we gain discomfort in areas we don’t know. But what if I told you that stepping out of your comfort zone is the gateway to unlocking your full potential and experiencing life in its richest form?

Today, I challenge each of you to break away from what you’re comfortable with. Have you been wanting to do something but you haven’t because you’re afraid? Take this as a sign to get it done. This could be starting your own business, trying a new food, learning how to drive, etc. If you really step back and take a look, you’re probably the only person holding yourself back.

Growth and greatness lie on the other side of fear. By stepping out of your comfort zone, you push past your perceived limitations and tap into your true potential. You’ll surprise yourself with what you’re capable of achieving when you dare to take risks and embrace new challenges head-on.

The more you venture outside of your comfort zone, the larger it becomes. What once seemed daunting and unfamiliar will gradually become second nature as you acclimate to new experiences and challenges. By continuously expanding your comfort zone, you’ll open yourself up to a world of endless possibilities and opportunities for growth.

So, how can you start embracing change and leaving your comfort zone today? Start small. Challenge yourself to try something new, whether it’s signing up for a class, initiating a conversation with a stranger, or pursuing a passion project you’ve been putting off. Remember, growth happens outside of your comfort zone, so don’t be afraid to take that first step. Embrace change, step out of your comfort zone, and watch as your life transforms in ways you never imagined possible.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged inspiration, real world, Student Life, the Universities at Shady Grove, USG | Leave a comment

My Journey into the Enthralling World of “The Silent Patient”

Posted on April 3, 2024 by melanyclaros

I recently embarked on a literary adventure that took me by surprise and left me utterly captivated: my first dive into the realm of psychological thrillers with Alex Michaelides’ “The Silent Patient.” As someone who’s typically a huge scaredy-cat when it comes to anything remotely suspenseful, I was amazed at how much I enjoyed this gripping novel.

The story revolves around Alicia Berenson, a talented painter who becomes infamous for a shocking crime: the murder of her husband. What makes her case even more intriguing is her decision to remain silent, refusing to utter a single word about the events that transpired. This silence transforms her into an enigmatic figure, a puzzle waiting to be solved.

Enter Theo Faber, a psychotherapist determined to unravel the mystery behind Alicia’s silence. As he delves deeper into her past and psyche, the narrative unfolds with a precision that kept me on the edge of my seat. Every chapter was a revelation, a piece of the puzzle that slowly unveiled the truth while maintaining an aura of suspense and unpredictability.

What struck me the most about “The Silent Patient” was its exploration of human psychology and the complexities of trauma. Through Alicia’s silence and Theo’s relentless pursuit of answers, the novel delved into themes of guilt, redemption, and the masks we wear to hide our innermost selves. It was a deep dive into the human psyche that left me pondering long after I turned the final page.

As someone who typically shies away from thrillers due to my overactive imagination and tendency to jump at shadows, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this experience. The pacing was perfect, the twists were unexpected yet satisfying, and the characters felt incredibly real.

Without giving away any spoilers, I can confidently say that “The Silent Patient” delivered a conclusion that left me in awe. It challenged my assumptions, subverted my expectations, and ultimately left a lasting impact on me as a reader.

In conclusion, if you’re like me—a self-professed scaredy-cat who’s hesitant to dip their toes into the thriller genre—I highly recommend giving “The Silent Patient” a chance. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, capable of captivating even the most hesitant of readers and leaving them craving more.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged book recommendations, fun, inspiration, life | Leave a comment

Tips to Avoid Distractions and Stay on Track

Posted on April 3, 2024 by swechchhas

Hello fellow students! Let’s face it, staying focused on your studies can be a real challenge. With all the distractions around us, from social media to the latest shows, it’s easy to lose track of time and wander off track. But fear not, because I’m going to share some practical tips to help you avoid distractions and boost your focus.

Set Clear Goals: First things first, know what you want to achieve. Set specific, achievable goals for your study sessions. Whether it’s finishing a chapter of your textbook or completing a set of practice problems, having a clear objective will help you stay focused and motivated.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone: Find a quiet, clutter-free space where you can study without interruptions. Turn off your phone or put it on silent mode and avoid tempting distractions like social media or streaming services. Let your friends and family know that you need some uninterrupted study time.

Break It Down: Studying for long stretches can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks and take short breaks in between to recharge. This not only helps improve focus but also enhances retention of information.

Prioritize and Eliminate: Not all tasks are created equal. Prioritize your study tasks based on their importance and urgency. Focus on high-priority tasks first, and don’t be afraid to eliminate tasks that aren’t essential to your goals.

By implementing these tips into your study routine, you’ll be better equipped to avoid distractions and stay focused on your academic goals. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but progress. Keep experimenting with different strategies until you find what works best for you. Stay focused, stay determined, and success will follow!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged advice, inspiration, life, real world, school, Student Life, the Universities at Shady Grove, USG | Leave a comment

5 New Skills I Want to Learn Over the Summer

Posted on April 3, 2024 by mnur2

As summer approaches, I find myself wanting to embrace new skills and expand on existing abilities. I’ve set my sights on some experiences that I hope contributes to my personal growth. Join me as I list the top 5 things I would like to do over the summer from pursuing creativity to unlocking new possibilities.

Crocheting

Watching a friend create hundreds of designs through crocheting has inspired me to embark on my own journey. I have always wanted to learn, but never had the nerve to fully get into it because I always thought crocheting required an innate level of skill that I didn’t have. My friend assured me that it’s very easy to learn and therapeutic as well.

Baking

It’s not like I’ve never baked before, but my one attempt at making banana bread was futile at best. I’m terrible at measuring ingredients and following directions, so I hope this summer I can practice new recipes and make my family try them out. A friend of mine loves baking so I would love to ask her for some tips as I take on this endeavor over the summer.

Learning a new language

Able to communicate in different languages opens the door to many new opportunities. With this mindset, I’ve vowed to learn a new language this summer (or at least attempt it). As someone who loves to watch a lot of k-dramas, I’ve always found Korean to be an interesting language to learn. I know some basic words, so I hope that if I do immerse myself on this road, that at least I have a little bit of foundational knowledge to not overwhelm myself with the prospect of learning.

Henna Designs

It’s funny to me how henna designs are such an important aspect of my culture and yet I can’t properly create my own designs. I’ve had to always rely on my mom or cousins to draw henna tattoos on my hand during our holiday festivals, so this year I would like to learn on my own and draw designs first.

Sewing

There was a point in my life when I was younger that I thought I would be a sewing girl. I remembered that my mom would allow me to sew flowers all over her excess clothing materials and I would have a lot of fun creating designs and showing them to her for approval. I’m not sure at what point I completely stopped, but I hope that I can get back into sewing.

Posted in students, Uncategorized | Tagged advice, baking, crocheting, fun, hobbies, inspiration, languages, learning, life, real world, sewing, skills, Student Life, summer, the Universities at Shady Grove, USG | Leave a comment

Beyond The Screen

Posted on April 2, 2024 by evelinfdavila

Last semester, one of my professors spent an entire class session lecturing us about digital technology. This class session is one that has stuck with me, as it made me realize that I spend so much time looking at a screen. In an era dominated by technology, it’s so easy to spend so much time mindlessly scrolling through your phone. This is a habit I’ve really been trying to break. Being on my phone so much has really disrupted how I spend my time, so I’ve been trying to find some new hobbies to get myself away from the screen and be more present. I wanted to talk about a few hobbies I’ve really been enjoying recently that help me stray away from high screen time.

Physical fitness: Recently, I signed up for a gym membership and it has been one of the best investments – not only physically, but mentally as well! Going to the gym to do cardio and lift weights has really helped me break free from the digital leash. I’ve found that it also really elevates my mood, so the benefits are not only physical! (Image source: Hussle)

Artistic pursuits: I would not consider myself an artist by any means, but I have found that engaging in art activities is not only fun, but it’s also very relaxing. I’ve picked up the hobby of doing diamond paintings recently. It’s a fun distraction that I’ve really enjoyed so far. (Image source: Paint with diamonds)

Building and crafting: I only have built one LEGO set, and it’s one that I got as a gift not so long ago. I received LEGO flowers, and they were super fun to build. This sharpens your focus and also fosters a sense of accomplishment once the set is done being built! (Image source: LEGO)

Cooking and baking: One of my goals for this year is to become better at cooking and baking. Recently, I’ve made banana bread and cookies from scratch. This is a hobby that I really enjoy doing, as I know that I can always reward myself with something good to eat at the end! (Image source: New Gen Baker)

Each of these activities has not only helped me cut down on screen time, but it has also enriched my life in many ways! Soon, I hope to learn how to crochet and add that as another fun artistic hobby. As I continue to explore and expand my horizons, I’m reminded of the importance of always being present and making the most of every moment.

Posted in Fitness & Wellness, students | Tagged fun, hobbies, life | Leave a comment

Navigating the Post-Spring Break Semester Grind: Tips for Success

Posted on March 29, 2024 by Karina Lopez

Greetings everyone! I trust your spring break was a memorable one. As we dive back into the academic routine this week, I understand the struggle of transitioning from leisure to productivity. However, the good news is that we’re approaching the final stretch of the semester, with just about a month and a half left before summer break. Let’s capitalize on this time and finish strong. Here are some actionable tips to help you get back into the groove and focus on your academic goals.

Prioritize Rest and Rejuvenation: Before diving into classes, take a few moments to detox and recharge your mind, body, and emotions. Set your reset button to ensure you have the energy to power through the remaining weeks.
Maintain Your Routine: Ease back into your routine, whether it’s your morning workout, breakfast rituals, or other daily habits. Consistency is key, so hold yourself accountable or enlist a partner to help you stay on track.
Plan Strategically: Use planners, digital calendars, or any tools that work for you to jot down important deadlines and events. Stay organized by crossing off completed tasks as the semester progresses.
Check Your Emails: Catch up on any communications you missed during the break. Stay on top of assignments and reach out to professors if needed.
Stay Focused: With finals approaching, prioritize effective studying techniques. Take regular breaks, find a quiet study space, and avoid procrastination to ensure you meet your academic obligations.
Self-Care Matters: Fuel your body with nutritious foods and stay hydrated. Utilize campus resources such as the counseling center, career readiness services, and library to support your overall well-being.
Make Every Week Count: Maximize your efforts to achieve your desired grades with just seven weeks left. Remember, finals are approaching, so stay proactive and focused on your academic success.

As we navigate these final weeks together, let’s ensure we take the necessary steps to finish the semester with confidence and satisfaction. Whether you’re graduating or completing your first semester, your efforts now will pave the way for a successful academic journey. Stay motivated, stay focused, and let’s make this semester one to remember!

Best wishes for a productive and rewarding end to the semester!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged advice, inspiration, life, school, Student Life, the Universities at Shady Grove, USG | Leave a comment

When you don’t know what to write ……

Posted on March 28, 2024 by kristenshewan

After having last week off for Spring break, it is now time to get back into the swing of things. I found myself pondering over and over again, what I should write about. I started to get hungry, and as I was scrolling through my Uber Eats app, the idea came to me! Today’s food review is going to be on the new chicken cantina menu from Taco Bell. Now first things first, I placed my order through Uber Eats, and it arrived at my doorstep within the hour. Everything was packaged nicely, and my food was still hot. I started off with my drink, their Dragonfruit Freeze. It was sweet and had a nice tang to it, I would rate this an 8/10.

Photo Credit: https://www.tacobell.com/food/new

Next up we have the Cantina Crispy Chicken Taco. Overall, I would say this is a good taco. The juicy chicken is wrapped in a crispy tortilla and is smothered with a jalapeno cream sauce and cheese. If you like a nice spicy kick, this taco is for you! This taco also comes with their new avocado verde salsa packet, which is to die for. The nice creaminess of the avocado really does come through, and pairs rather nicely with the taco. I would rate this menu item a 7/10. Personally, I do not like spicy food very much, so if you’re like me, you may not want the jalapeno cream sauce because my mouth was on fire!!!

Last but not least, we have the Cantina Chicken Burrito. This burrito was pretty tasty especially with the avocado verde salsa. This burrito has the same chicken in it, and it topped with lettuce, purple cabbage, cheese, pico de gallo, avocado ranch, and chipotle sauce. The combination of all these flavors was really nice! I did not find this item spicy, and the chipotle sauce added a nice slight kick. I would rate this item a 9/10 and would definitely order it again. All in all, I would say this was a successful order and I was rather pleased with the drink and food items. What should I try next? I wonder who makes the best tacos in the DMV? Leave a comment below if you think you know who has the best taco, and I’ll check them out!

Posted in Life at USG, students, Uncategorized | Tagged chicken, Food, taco bell, Tacos, vaule | Leave a comment

Ninjas of the Night Sky: The Silent Owls

Posted on March 27, 2024 by georgitsvetanskigogo

Greetings, friends!

Do you know that there is an animal that hunts silently like a snowflake landing on soft ground, making it nature’s most silent assassin?

While human intellect astounds in its own realm, some species showcase abilities that leave us in awe, showcasing nature’s incredible adaptability and specialization.

Bird enthusiasts and casual readers alike, I have a treat for you today. Let’s dive into the world of a bird that captivates with its prowess and mystique: the owl.

The dance of evolution has equipped animals with traits ensuring their survival; predators sharpen their hunting skills, while prey enhance their defenses.

The owl, however, stands out with its blend of stealth and keen sensory abilities We are speaking so quiet that the prey’s highly sensitive hearing cannot pick up this hunter’s dives.

Doubtful about the owl’s silent approach and my snowflake parallel earlier? Let this video speak for itself.

Natural World: Super Powered Owls Preview – BBC Two

Owls possess an extraordinary vision, especially in dim light, making them unmatched nocturnal hunters.

Their large, forward-facing eyes are not just for an intense gaze; they are a sophisticated adaptation for depth perception and maximizing light intake, essential for hunting in the shadows of the night.

Though their world isn’t as colorful as ours, their ability to see in the dark is unparalleled.

And should we talk about flexibility? Owls can rotate their heads up to 270 degrees!

This isn’t just a party trick; it’s a critical adaptation supported by a sophisticated bone structure and vascular system, ensuring their brains and eyes are well-supplied with blood, even mid-twist.

Our planet is a mosaic of extraordinary species, each remarkable in their own way. Diving into the lives of these creatures opens up a world of wonder and respect for the natural world.

I hope this glimpse into the life of owls has sparked your interest and admiration for nature’s ingenuity.

It’s a call to cherish and protect our wildlife, ensuring that the magic of the natural world remains for generations to come.

Happy birdwatching! 🙂

~ Gogo