Scheduling

One of the most important things I found that have helped me in my online classes is setting aside designated time to work on my assignments. One of the benefits of working from home is that you can work whenever you feel most comfortable–in the middle of the night with Netflix playing in the background or in the early morning with your favorite hot beverage next to you. Whichever works, be sure to remain consistent, and you’ll find yourself more motivated to work.

To-Do List

To-do lists. One of my personal favorites. Trying to remember what assignment is due can become very chaotic, especially when you aren’t in the classroom. Something I find most useful is making a list every week with all my assignments and their due dates. It doesn’t have to be complex or fancy. It can be as simple as a scratch piece of paper or a day-by-day planner.

With all of your work organized in one place, you’ll be more likely to complete it and turn it on time.

Workspace

When you are comfortable in where you work, you are more likely to succeed and be motivated. What’s great about online classes is that you are able to work on your own time and in an environment where you are most likely to thrive. This means being able to watch your favorite shows (if that’s how you focus), listen to your favorite tunes or work in absolute silence.

Click here for tips on the perfect at-home workspace.

Limiting Distractions

One of the obvious. Limit those distractions! Try placing your phone out of arms’ reach, closing your door to block outside noise or even turning off your computer’s Wi-Fi so you are less tempted to check your Twitter. We all know how easy that minute can turn into an hour.

Visualizing Success

This too shall pass.

Online classes aren’t forever and while it may seem that way, the end of the semester is only a few short weeks away. Something that always keeps me going is visualizing success and the things I’ll be able to do once it all passes. (Hint, hint, sleeping in!)

While you may struggle now, think about how you’ll feel later. Staying motivated will have been worth it.

Location

Finding the optimum space in your home is ultimately the first step. And depending on your household size, this can vary from an actual home office to the tiniest part left in your bedroom. There is no right or wrong spot. It’s what works best for you.

Limit Distractions

Distractions are all around us, from our TVs to our phones or even our family. Your workspace should be free of any of those temptations. When you are in your work mode, try placing your phone in another room, so you aren’t tempted to grab it. This can work the same with your TV remote.

Light

Lighting is another important factor. When we are exposed to more sunlight, our cognitive function is better, according to Environmental Health, a medical journal. Try shifting your desk or space in front of an open window.

Supplies

No matter where you find your perfect setting, it should always be filled with the essentials such as your computer, paper for notes, writing utensils and a planner. Having to take a break and hunt for tools can hinder you from working efficiently.

Design

Your workspace doesn’t have to be fancy or overly dramatic. But, if you are a fan of the aesthetic, adding your favorite decor can help you stay focused and actually want to work.

Comfortable clothes

Although this doesn’t directly pertain to your workspace, it is a key factor in your success rate. Many schools or businesses require dress codes that can be uncomfortable to work in. A benefit from working from home is there isn’t a strict set of rules you have to follow. You can dress up or dress down as you please. 

Here are a few workspaces from GS students and professors who sent in their photos via Twitter using #DailyDesk.

No matter where you find yourself working, it is important to create that barrier from your relaxing space to your workspace. That way there is a designated area only for work, and you will be more likely to function proficiently.

Tweet us your at-home workspace with the hashtag #DailyDesk!

Good Ole Fashioned Peanut Butter Jelly (hint, hint, it’s fried now)

Many of us are all too familiar with the sticky sweet snack we’ve probably had way too many times to remember. And while a good ole PB&J can surely make us feel nostalgic, is this rendition for the better or worse? I’ll leave that up to you, and it’s very easy to make!

Ingredients:

· 2 slices of bread

· Peanut butter

· Jelly

· Butter

Directions

1. Make your PB&J as usual.

2. Spread butter onto one side of the sandwich.

3. Melt 1 tbsp of butter into a heated frying pan.

4. Place unbuttered side of sandwich in pan.

5. Cook till golden brown.

6. Repeat on other side.

Easy!

Ramen Noodles+

As many of us are probably way too busy or lazy to cook, I know how easy it can be to cook up some Ramen and plop down in front of the TV. But why settle for the same ole thing when you can easily spice it up? Try this Sesame Garlic Ramen Noodles recipe.

Ingredients

· 2 3 Ounce Packages of Ramen Noodles (toss the seasoning packet)

· 2 Teaspoons Sesame Oil

· 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

· 1/4 Cup Soy Sauce

· 1 Teaspoon Brown Sugar

· 2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust to your preferred level of spicy)

Directions

1. Cook ramen noodles as directed. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat sesame oil in skillet or saucepan on medium.

3. Cook garlic for 2 minutes, stirring frequently

4. Remove pan from heat and whisk in soy sauce, brown sugar and sriracha. Mix until combined.

5. Add the noodles with the sauce

Grilled Cheese Hotdogs

Yup, you read correctly. This one is without a doubt a twist —not only on one childhood favorite but two!

Ingredients

· 4 hot dog buns

· 2 tbsp. butter, softened

· 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

· 1/4 tsp. onion powder

· 4 hot dogs, cut lengthwise but no all the way through

· 3 cups shredded cheddar

· 4 Green onions, sliced

Directions

1. Using a rolling pin, flatten out the hot dog buns.

2. Stir together butter, garlic powder and onion powder in a small bowl. Spread onto hot dog buns.

3. Grab a large skillet and put on medium heat. Cook hot dogs until charred. Set aside.

4. Lay a bun (buttered) down in skillet. Top with ½ cup of cheddar, a hot dog and more cheese and ¼ cup of green onions.

5. Cook and cover until cheese melts over medium heat. Close bun with spatula. Repeat 4x.

Crab Mac n Cheese

If this isn’t an upgrade, then I don’t know what is.

Ingredients

· 4 slices of bacon

· 1/2 cup chopped onion

· 3 tablespoons butter

· 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

· 4 cups whole milk

· 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

· 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

· 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

· Salt to taste

· 1 (16-ounce) box medium pasta shells cooked according to package directions

· 2 (5-ounce) cans Chicken of the Sea crab

· 2 tablespoons melted butter

· 1/3 cup Panko crumbs

Directions

1. Using a large nonstick pan, cook bacon then crumble and set aside.

2. Add butter to pan and cook onion until soft.

3. Add flour and stir for 1 minute.

4. Slowly add in milk. Whisking and bringing to a simmer. Remove from heat.

5. Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Set aside ½ cup of cheddar cheese and stir in leftover cheddar and parmesan until melted.

6. Check seasoning and add salt to your liking

7. Drain crab and stir in cheese mixture

8. Place cooked pasta in 9×13 casserole dish. Pour in cheese and mix.

9. Sprinkle cheese and bacon on top.

10. Mix together Panko crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Top on mac and cheese.

11. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

12. Broil for 2-3 minutes to brown crumbs.

Whichever you found the most interesting, I definitely recommend you give one these a try!

Software Downloads

GS offers free downloads for a variety of resources, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Cloud. If you log on to your MyGeorgiaSouthern and scroll till you reach the section titled Technology Resources and click Download Software, you can get free access to a series of different computer software.

eBooks

While you can’t physically check out books, eBooks are still an option! Under the section titled Library Resources on MyGeorgiaSouthern gives you a list of appropriate links.

Virtual Tutoring

The Academic Success Center has moved entirely online but is still readily accessible. Virtual tutoring is here to offer services such as economics, foreign languages and engineering. You can schedule an appointment here!

Internet Access

If you are housed locally near Georgia Southern and is in need of internet access or a computer then you can make an appointment at Henderson Library here.

Video Chat

Social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t see your friends! Still wanting to set up that study group, you can try Google Hangouts Meet or Zoom. Both are free, accessible software where you are able to still get “face-to-face” contact.

While online classes may not seem the most ideal, they can still be very efficient when we have access to the right tools.

March 1, 1978 – Women’s History Week is first observed in Sonoma County, California

Women’s History Month was first founded and celebrated in the state of California years before it was made official. The holiday traces back as far as 1909 where it was nationally observed and where women marched for economic rights. In the 1970s, feminists brought up the issue that women were largely cut out of history books despite their significance. One group’s idea was to create a Women’s History Month. It was made official by Congress in 1987.

Whereas American women have played a unique role throughout
our history by providing the majority of the Nation’s volunteer
labor force and have been particularly important in the establishment of early charitable philanthropic and cultural institutions in the country;
– Snippet of the Pub. L. 97-28, the joint resolution declaring Women’s History Month

March 2, 1903 – the Martha Washington Hotel opens in New York City, becoming the first hotel exclusively for women

The Redbury New York is a historic hotel opened by Martha Washington. It was the first hotel exclusively for women. It originally had 400 rooms but grew tremendously with popularity. The Redbury New York was important because it became home to a growing number of women who were leaving home to the professional world.

March 12, 1912 – Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls together in Savannah, Georgia, for the first-ever Girl Scout meeting

Juliette Gordon Low’s act to assemble the first-ever Girl Scout meeting was inspired by an encounter she had with Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the Boy Scouts founder. The creation of Girl Scout was the start of an American movement where it gave girls the opportunity to grow physically, mentally and spiritually.

“Truly, ours is a circle of friendships, united by our ideals.”
– Juliette Gordon Low

March 21, 1988 – Debi Thomas becomes the first African American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championship

Debi Thomas started skating from the early age of five and was winning competitions by 10. She went to Stanford University where she studied engineering and continued to skate competitively. In the midst of working towards her Bachelor’s, Thomas took home the senior women’s title at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, making her the first Black woman to own this status. Thomas continued to make history by scoring a Bronze Medal in 1988, where she became the first African American woman to earn a medal at the Winter Olympics.

My skating is a very emotional thing that comes from the heart, never doing it for the medal.
– Debi Thomas

Women will continue to make history. The future is indeed female.

Warning: contains spoilers

On February 12th, 2020, Netflix announced: “To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You.” The release generated lots of buzz, but some fans weren’t too happy with the second edition. Let’s recap, summarize and then reflect on the good, the bad and the ugly.

The Netflix film picks right up from where it left off. Lara Jean and Peter are officially a couple. We expect fireworks in the fresh-new relationship, and we get that in first dates, playful banter and forever promises. But we also get forgotten love letters, insecurities and, most importantly, John Ambrose.

What We Want

Lara Jean and John Ambrose steal the hearts of everyone watching from the moment their chemistry sparks on the screen.

When Lara Jean receives a letter back from John Ambrose, her entire world is turned upside down and her relationship is tested. John is one of Lara’s old love letter recipients. When Lara Jean goes to volunteer at a senior citizen’s home, she is shocked to discover that John is also volunteering. Lara recounts their old sixth-grade love in a fairytale flashback featuring a (literal) deviled eggs costume.

I’ll always know that once upon a time, my heart was yours.

Lara Jean

As they work together, it is no surprise when a flame ignites between them. They’re spending Saturdays together and hosting bingo games, just being the cool losers, they are. But unfortunately, it is a bit one-sided. John is greatly feeling the vibe, while Lara Jean seemingly remains faithful.

Let’s flashforward. Lara Jean descends the steps where John awaits to escort her to the dance they organized. They share not only a snow-filled magical moment, but a kiss (Peter and she are broken up at this time, but we’ll get there). Lara departs with wide eyes, and the fairytale stops there. In that moment, John Ambrose realizes that Lara is going to choose Peter. *Cue sad music*

What We Get

Lara Jean and Peter’s relationship starts with flowers, candle-lit dinners and lanterns. But although they left the audience jumping out of their seats with anticipation, the connection comes to a screeching halt. Lara is excited to have finally taken that next step, but she soon finds out that new flames don’t put out old fires.

But for every first I was having with him; he’d already had his with her.

Lara Jean is timid and vulnerable as she discovers that, just because Peter chose her, doesn’t erase the endless girls falling at his feet. Peter assures Lara that she’s the only one he wants. As their relationship progresses, Lara just can’t ignore the fact that Peter’s former girlfriend, Gen, has already experienced all that Peter offers. This is a recurring theme that has Peter and Lara sharing many moments of intensity and distrust.

When Lara is shown a picture of Peter and Gen together, she is upset. She confronts Peter, they argue, and she ends it with something along the lines of you’re always going to pick her over me.

Let’s backtrack and revisit when Lara kisses John post-breakup. She realizes that Peter is the one she wants but fears that it is too late. As she goes out to find him, she opens the door to find none other than Peter Kavinsky standing at the doorstep. In the final minutes we see Lara Jean and Peter in their happy ever after, or beginning as she calls it, as they share a final kiss.

It’s a funny thing, this relationship stuff. One moment things are upside down, but then, like magic, there’s glitter everywhere. And once it all settles, you’re right back in the fairytale again.

Lara Jean

The Verdict

During the duration of the film, we get a lot of tender interactions with Lara Jean and John. For her, its effortless, light and exciting. While her relationship with Peter begins like a fairytale, it is very short-lived. We don’t get the excitement or anticipation like with her and John.

If you’re looking for a romance film where they build up the intensity only for it to come crashing down then this is the movie for you. So, because of that, I give it 3 1/2 stars. 

Although the film is cheesy and a bit corny, it did have many whimsical and dreamy moments that definitely had you wishing you were Lara Jean.

Alas, it ends in an overused trope. The unexpected ending doesn’t leave you with joy or the thrill of wondering if they will make another part. Instead, it leaves you full of questions and confusion (and raging to yell at the writers).

Princess Tiana / 2010

Although this may seem a bit unorthodox, Princess Tiana’s confidence, bravery and optimistic spirit heavily impacted young black girls. She was Disney’s first black princess, and her heroic fairytale is still talked about following the “Princess and the Frog” release almost 10 years ago.

Kenneth Frazier / 2011

Frazier joined Merck & Co, a multinational pharmaceutical business, in 1992. After working there for almost 20 years, Frazier became the first African American to lead a major pharmaceutical company when he took the role of Chief Executive Officer. Biospace.com, an extensive life science and informational news source, considered Frazier “one of the most prominent African Americans in biopharma.”

Barack Obama / 2012

Barack Obama made history in 2012 by becoming the first black President. He continued to make history in 2016 when he was re-elected for a second term. Not only did his kindness, personality and loving family charm America once again. But one of his most memorable achievements is stopping the Great Recession from becoming the second Great Depression.

Cheryl Boone Isaacs / 2013

Cheryl Boone Isaacs became the first African American president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) in 2013. She was the third woman to hold this position. The following year, Isaacs won the NAACP Image Award – Hall of Fame Award.

Michelle Howard / 2014

Michelle Howard first made history in 1999, when she became the first black woman to captain a naval ship, but for her, it didn’t stop there. In 2014 she also became the first African American woman to be promoted to four-star admiral in the U.S Navy. Two years later, Howard was appointed as the 38th vice-chief of naval operations. 

Michael Curry / 2015

Michael Curry advocates for causes such as racial injustice, LGBTQ+ equality and the #MeToo Movement, which helps bring awareness to sexual assault and violence victims. He made history in 2015 by becoming the first black bishop of The Episcopal Church. Fun fact, Bishop Curry gave a compelling sermon at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Jason Towns / 2016

No copyright-free image available.

There aren’t many people of color involved in tech and startups, but Jason Towns is working to change that. In 2016, Towns launched Groundwork, a $10 million project aimed to connect minorities with resources to help assist in startups.

Jordan Peele / 2017

The Root announced Jordan Peele as the most influential African American of 2017. Peele is most famously known for writing, directing and producing the critically acclaimed movie “Get Out.” The film opened at number one at the box office and made history as the highest-grossing original debut ever.

Tarana Burke / 2018

Tarana Burke is a civil rights activist who coined and started the #MeToo Movement. She first started using the words “me too” in 2006 to bring awareness of sexual assault and abuse. Then actress Alyssa Milano shared those two words along with the hashtag on social media. The next 24 hours changed everything when more than 12 million people took part in the movement. The #MeToo is still continuously used to empower women, and some men, today.

Janet Mock / 2019

Janet Mock wrote, produced and directed the highly praised FX series “Pose.” Later she became the first openly transgender woman of color to sign on to a major studio deal. She gave Netflix exclusive rights to her series in a three-year contract. 

These remarkable, multi-talented African Americans have and still continuously work to change the game for black people.

“Our goal is to give members valuable information that prepares them for career life after graduation,” according to SHRM.

While SHRM is especially beneficial for management majors, the chapter is open to all Georgia Southern students.

“Almost everyone’s going to have to deal with [human resources] at some point in their career. So, it could help you when you’re trying to get a job,” said Joshua Lord, Vice President of Public Relations of SHRM. Lord is a sophomore and is majoring in marketing, logistics and international business.

Lord joined SHRM in November of last year and made vice president the following month. While he is fairly new to the chapter, he has had a very positive experience.

Lord said, “The actual first meeting I went to was like a networking meeting. [It was] kind of interesting because soon after, I got this position. [By] attending meetings, I was able to build a network and that was something that I felt like I needed to work on.”

SHRM meets every other Thursday in the Parker College of Business building, room 1104 from 5-6 pm.

During these meetings, you can expect to learn about topics such as professionalism, interview skills and how to dress appropriately for potential employment.

“We get speakers that are in different fields. It can get you into certain fields that you’re interested in. We have some fun meetings that will that kind of introduce certain HR topics in a fun way that would be engaging to someone who might not be as interested in HR,” said Lord.

If you’re interested in joining, you can contact Joshua Lord at [email protected] or find SHRM on Georgia Southern’s My Involvement here.

Photo courtesy of Jacob Lord

Birds of Prey: Crime/Action

From the 2016 film, “Suicide Squad” Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) takes over the screen in the action-packed “Birds of Prey.“ Away from the Joker, Quinn sets off to join the Black Canary, the Huntress and Renee Montoya, creating an unstoppable girl gang.

“Birds of Prey” is set to be released on February 7th, 2020.

A Quiet Place II: Mystery/Thriller

Set shortly after its first installation, “A Quiet Place II” is back, better and scarier than ever. After experiencing a devastating loss, we watch as the Abbott family continues to take on the new world but now with even tougher obstacles. The frightening creatures aren’t the only threat we should be afraid of.

“A Quiet Place II” is set to premiere on March 20th, 2020.

The Lovebirds: Romance/Comedy

If you’re a sucker for a good rom-com, then you may be interested in this upcoming film. “The Lovebirds” features Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani, a couple on the brink of breaking up when they get involved in a murder mystery. With the prolonged separation looming over their heads, they must also try to solve the case and clear their names.

You can expect to see “The Lovebirds” in theaters on April 3rd, 2020.

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run: Adventure/Comedy

If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic experience, “The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run” is perfect for you. Although this isn’t its first TV breakaway, SpongeBob is back on a new quest. With Squidward, surprisingly, along his side, they are on a mission to Atlantic City in search of SpongeBob’s iconic pet snail, Gary.

Catch this vibrant yellow square on the big screens on May 22nd, 2020.

Wonder Woman 1984: Fantasy/Action

Gal Gadot is returning to theaters in “Wonder Woman 1984,” a sequel. Set in the 1980s, Wonder Woman goes up against the villain, the Cheetah, who is agile and has the gift of superhuman strength. This popular superhero film also features Steve Trevor, Wonder Woman’s back-from-the-dead love interest.

Catch Gadot on a screen near you on June 5th, 2020.

Last Night in Soho: Thriller/Mystery

Directed by Edgar Wright, “Last Night in Soho”is a horror film featuring Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy. The film was inspired by “Don’t Look Now” and “Repulsion”because of its shared use of time travel. The film follows a young girl who travels back into the 1960s. There she encounters her favorite singer, but all is not as it seems to be.

This movie is expected to be released on September 25th, 2020.

Catch some of the cinema’s most acclaimed actors and actresses in a theater near you this year.

As we enter February, we are merely days away from Valentine’s Day. With red hearts printed on nearly everything, oversized bears popping up in stores and expensive chocolates being put on display, it’s not hard to remember. If you’re a hopeless romantic and religiously rely on your horoscope for answers, then this is a must-read for you.

Aries: March 21 – April 19

Hit by a sudden craving for love? Don’t be alarmed as Mercury enters Pisces on February 3rd. Now is a good time to do all the romantic activities you’ve probably been putting off. Communication during this time is also important so those activities go as planned.

Taurus: April 20 – May 20

Your confidence, creativity and ability to instantly capture someone’s attention is going to work well in your favor this month. As Mercury moves into Pisces, efforts of communication are strong, use this opportunity to tell a potential love interest exactly what you want and how you feel. Be Assertive and all should be well.

Gemini: May 21 – June 20

Love and work are high on your to-do list this month, and being the air sign you are, you should have no trouble balancing the two. Rely heavily on your gut if the situation becomes too tricky. On Feb. 7, you’ll be strongly seeking love but don’t be surprised if you may not find that special Valentine. Focus on your work.

Cancer: June 21 – July 22

Like many of your fellow signs, communication is crucial in getting what you want. This may be with lovers, friends or family. On Feb. 9, allow this time to reflect strongly on what you want. Spend some quality time with yourself, and in the following week, you’ll be spending your Valentine’s with someone truly special.

Leo: July 23 – Aug 22

Want to move on and surely put the past behind you? Then it’s up to you to actually do that and Pisces can help. Be kind but also practice assertiveness. The weekend of Feb. 7 is all about you and spending time with your special someone. The enthusiastic weekend to come will surely lead you in the right direction as Valentine’s Day approaches.

Virgo: Aug 23 – Sep 22

You maybe marking off the days until V-day, but hold your horses. The first week of February has other plans for you. Like your dreams. Stop planning the most romantic date ever for a minute and go after what you’ve been waiting for. The hustle starts now. Prepare to also be challenged in your relationship. As the love planet approaches, it’s time to sit down and have that talk you’ve maybe been avoiding.

Libra: Sep 23 – Oct 22

You’re energized with confidence as Venus enters Aries. Say what you want and mean it. Now is the time to talk to a love interest or potential one about where the relationship is going. Be bold and confident and you should be fine. Use this newfound confidence and go all out when Valentine’s Day arrives. Two words: Rose petals.

Scorpio: Oct 23 – Nov 21

Your friends and partners are a big deal this month. When Mercury enters Pisces, the mood is chill. Spending quality time with friends will leave you thoroughly satisfied. Feb. 9 brings a full moon, and the Lion inside of you should be embraced. Self-care is important here. Keep this energy flowing, and Feb. 14 will be something special.

Sagittarius: Nov 22 – Dec 21

Mindfulness is going to work well in your favor this month, so practice it. Communicate carefully. You may not be fond of walking on eggshells, but it will be a good idea that you try it. Feb. 7 brings romance Venus into Aries and the time is all about you. Spend it with whoever and however you want.

Capricorn: Dec 22 – Jan 19

Being assertive is the only way you’ll be getting what you want, and planet Venus will help with that. On Feb. 7, communicate exactly what you want to your partner. This should help you decide how you’ll be spending the following special weekend.

Aquarius: Jan 20 – Feb

This is your season and while romance isn’t normally your specialty, you’ve decided to let down those walls as Plant Venus (aka the love planet) enters Aries on Feb. 7 Exactly a week before the big day, you have plenty of time to make those connections. Both romantic and platonic love is hot on your radar.

Pisces: Feb 19 – March 20

Always stuck between craving love and needing freedom, you like your friend Aquarius, often struggle in the love department. But as the Love Planet surfaces, keep your eyes open on Feb. 9. Any potential love interest is sure to last. Stay alert for any reappearing exes.