Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Top 10 Fall Date Ideas

By: Laura McGehee, Marketing Intern

The aroma of pumpkin spice lattes wafts from Starbucks, everyone is stocking up on oversize bags of Halloween candy, and the trees lining campus are starting to change into beautiful shades of orange and brown. While the weather may not be perfect for pool parties, ice cream dates, or outdoor concerts, fall is here with exciting and new date opportunities! We have searched the web, interviewed college dating pros, and experienced some of these dates ourselves, so here is a list of our top 10 favorite fall date ideas.

1. Pumpkin and Apple Picking- Tis the season for picking some of your favorite fall produce and why not take your special someone to share in the experience! Once you have handpicked your favorites from the patch or orchard (Boyd Orchards is popular and in driving distance from campus), spend time making some delicious treats together. Apple cider, pumpkin or apple pie, and pumpkin bread are all sure to please your taste buds.

2. Carve a Pumpkin- Whether you pick it yourself or purchase one from a nearby store, carving a pumpkin with your date can be a great way to get your hands dirty together and show some creativity.

3. Enjoy the Arboretum- As the leaves begin to change colors and cover the ground, now is the perfect time to take a stroll together and enjoy the scenery. The best part? It’s free!

4. Halloween Movie Marathon- If the weather is gloomy, spend time cuddled up on the couch watching some of Halloween’s most classic movies. Hocus Pocus, Beetlejuice, and Young Frankenstein are perfect funny movies to enjoy together. More adventurous? Try watching The Hollow, The Omen, or the Exorcist. Not exactly romantic, but these movies will have you moving closer and closer together.

5. Hayrides and Corn Mazes- These activities make for the perfect group date as you and your friends can all enjoy this unique experience. Kelly Farms, not far from campus, offers hayrides, games, and 10 acres of corn mazes. This year’s maze honors Coach Calipari!

6. Horseback Riding- Kentucky is known for its beautiful horses so why not take a ride together before the snow starts to fall. There are plenty of places close to campus and most places can accommodate all levels of experience.

7. Haunted Houses- This thrill is perfect for group dates. Screampark, located on Manchester Street here in Lexington, is Kentucky’s largest haunted event. With an “Insanity Hospital,” “Castle of Fear,” “The Abyss” (a twisting maze of darkness), and other attractions and events, there is plenty of horror to entertain the whole crowd.

8. Farmers and Flea Markets- A whole new experience of shopping and eating, enjoy the fresh foods at local farmer’s markets and the interesting finds at your closest flea market.

9. Wine Tasting- For our of-age couples, head to a local winery for wine tastings together. Talon Winery off Tates Creek offers group and guided tours for only $10 a person!

10. Enjoy the Weather Together- Have a day picnic, go for a hike, or snuggle up next to a bonfire. The cooler weather has its perks and your special someone will appreciate these simple, yet fun fall activities.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Top Ten Places to Study (On Campus)

Top Ten Places to Study (On Campus)

Whether you're a student living off campus with short breaks between classes or an on-campus resident, there's no doubt that all UK students will have a reason to study on campus. Thanks to numerous campus facilities students should have no problem finding a space that matches their unique studying style. If you haven't found your on campus study haven yet, check out The Study's top ten locations list.

10. The Student Center

If you don't mind some background noise or people moving around while you're studying, the Student Center could be a great study spot for you. There are plenty of tables and couches scattered around the building, making it a comfy and convenient place to go. If you need a little caffeine boost before hitting the books, stop by the Starbucks located on the second floor. The Student Center is open from 7 am to 10 pm Monday through Saturday and from 3-9 pm on Sunday.

9. Intermezzo

Intermezzo is a great option for students who are living on-campus but have short breaks between classes. You can grab some lunch and tackle some homework, making great use of your free block of time. This is also a great option if you need to meet with a group about a project or to just touch base and make sure each group member is understanding their components. Located in Patterson Office Tower, Intermezzo can also be a convenient place to meet most professors if you have questions about material or need help with an assignment. Intermezzo is open Monday-Thursday from 7:30 am to 4 pm and on Friday from 7:30 am to 3 pm.

8. Johnson Center and other Campus Recreation facilities

Love to work out? Why not take that time to get some extra studying done? Consider reading a textbook while running on a treadmill or flipping through a power point presentation while using an elliptical machine. Perhaps not the best way to study for a major exam, but these are definitely ways to make sure your readings don't put you to sleep. For the latest information on what is going on with Campus Recreation, follow them on twitter, @ukcampusrec.

7. Shaver Engineering Library

Open to all students, not just engineering majors, the Shaver Engineering Library can be a great place to study. Lesser known than some of the other campus libraries this one has an advantage for attracting students who are serious about studying and looking for a place where they can easily focus and plow through assignments. The Engineering Library is open Monday- Thursday from 8 am to midnight and on Friday from 8 am- 4:30 pm. It is located in 355 Anderson Tower.

6. Science Library

The Science Library is often commonly referred to as the King Library, because of its location in the King Building. The Science Library is reached through the South entrance to the King Building and contains many science-related resources from astronomy to geology. The University's Map Collection is also kept in the Science Library on the 4th floor. This area is great for studying and is hardly ever crowded, making it another place for students who don't like a lot of distractions while they study. The Science Library also has group study rooms available. This library is open Monday through Thursday from 8 am to midnight, Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday from noon to midnight.

5. William T. Young Library

From quiet study areas to the hustle and bustle of The Hub, you’re sure to find a space that fits your study habits at Willy T. In addition to the quiet study areas and the Hub, students may also request group study rooms, which are equipped with large whiteboards. These rooms are a great resource for study groups cramming before a big test, but beware; around midterm and final exams you may have to be placed on a wait list for a group study room. For the library’s hours, visit the UK Libraries webpage at libraries.uky.edu.

4. Fine Arts Library

Not quite as well known as Willy T, but just as accommodating is the Fine Arts Library, located behind the Fine Arts Building and across from King Library. Eight group study rooms are available through a first come basis and through reservations. For the library’s hours, visit the UK Libraries webpage at libraries.uky.edu.

3. The UK Art Museum

If you are looking for a quiet place to do some reading for a class, one of the most interesting places on campus to get your work done is the UK Art Museum. The Museum has a serene atmosphere and is one of the most aesthetically pleasing locations on campus. If you need to do work of some creative nature, perhaps writing a short story or sketching, the Art Museum provides just the right environment. Admission to the UK art museum is free for all UK faculty, staff, and students. The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Fridays from noon to 8 pm.

2. Outside!

Kentucky weather is unpredictable, to say the least, however when it’s good, it’s great. Take advantage of a sunny, crisp fall day by hitting the books outside at one of many great outdoor study spots around campus. Suggested locations include the amphitheater behind Memorial Hall, the picnic tables under the Gatton College of Business and Economics Building’s bridge, and the Engineering quad.

1. The Study

The Study may be known for it’s free peer tutoring, but it is also a great place to come and work on homework assignments. If you happen to get stuck on a problem, then the peer tutors will be right there to help you. Other students from your courses are bound to be visiting The Study as well, meaning you will have more of an opportunity to get to know your peers outside of the classroom. Located on the 3rd floor of the Commons Building on south campus, The Study is also convenient for the majority of students living on campus. The Study’s peer tutoring hours are: Monday through Thursday 3 pm to 10 pm, Friday from noon to 5 pm, and Sunday from 6 pm to 10 pm

The Study Offers Common-Hour Exam Prep

As the first round of common-hour exams begins this week, one can already sense the anxiety mounting around campus. For many students, this will be their first time taking a college exam, while for others, this first week of exams has become second-nature. Regardless of how many times students have experienced the frenzy that is “Common-Hour Exam Week,” these exams are often stressful and overwhelming for everyone. The staff at The Study understands the importance of common-hour exams; thus, The Study is providing students several resources and opportunities to help them not only perform well on their first exams, but to also help them relax during this stressful time.

As usual, students are encouraged to utilize the Peer Tutoring Program, a free, proactive, and preventive program that promotes peer-to-peer tutoring. With over 100 Peer Tutors who have previously taken these exams, coming to the Peer Tutoring Program will be sure to give students an edge when studying. With the Peer Tutoring Program’s new expanded hours, students can now access peer tutoring six days a week, including Fridays! Offering peer tutoring in over 50 courses, the Peer Tutoring Program is a great resource for students to review content and ask questions before their exams.

Outside of the Peer Tutoring Program, The Study is also offering Intensive Tutoring, a two-hour session geared towards preparing students for their common-hour exams. As a supplement to the regular Peer Tutoring Program hours, there will be three Intensive Tutoring sessions offered on Sunday, September 18th from 4pm-6pm for MA 109, MA 123, and CHE 107. In case students are in need of an extra boost, Intensive Tutoring is a great way to get additional help and more one-on-one attention with the Peer Tutors.

If content isn’t really a concern for students, but they would like to learn how to study better or avoid test anxiety, The Study has the solution. Students can register for an Individual Academic Consultation, where they can discuss a topic of their choice with a learning specialist. In these free, hour-long consultations, students will take a learning inventory to assess their strengths and areas of needed improvement, and they will also have the opportunity to speak with a graduate student. To help students maximize their studying time and to best prepare for exams, the Individual Academic Consultations are another great resource for students to utilize before and after Common-Hour Exam Week.

While the Peer Tutoring Program, Individual Academic Consultations, and Intensive Tutoring sessions all aim to help prepare students for the first round of exams, “The Study Break” is a great way for students to relax. On Tuesday, September 20th from 8pm-10pm, students can come to The Study for food, games, and fun. Entitled “The Study Break” for a reason, The Study hopes that this event will give students a much-needed recess from all of their hard studying.

The Study hopes that through their services and events, students will not only successfully prepare for their exams, but relax during the process.

I Wish I Knew then What I Know Now

Contributor: Katie Avra, Outreach Coordinator at AE

Often we look back on our college years or even from our sophomore to our freshman year and think “I wish I knew then what I know now.”

The Senior Staff at Academic Enhancement was asked “What is something you know now that you wish you knew in college?”

We hope the knowledge shared will enhance your college journey.

Mike Sosnowski, Placement Testing Coordinator, "Nothing happens until I have a thought. Whatever I do during the day starts in my head.” University of Wisconsin at Green Bay Alumnus

Jim Breslin, Associate Director, “It is ok to ask for help. Go out and meet people because most people want to meet others too! The awkwardness fades.” University of Notre Dame Alumnus

Austin Wilson, Student Program Coordinator, “Not to take it so seriously, have a life too!” University of Kentucky Upperclassman

Blake Dickens, Student Program Coordinator, “It is way too tough to pull up your GPA so establish a good one from the beginning.” University of Kentucky Upperclassman

Megan Beach, Assistant Director, “There is no need to pull all-nighters; it is more effort than needed.” University of Kentucky Alumnus

Bailey Grossl, Instructor and TRP Coordinator, “Trying to balance everything makes you worry academically. Get involved in your residence hall; enjoy getting to know people on your floor.” Georgetown College Alumnus

Stephanie Sipp, Student Program Coordinator, “It’s better to get a B and enjoy college than to never have fun and study all the time to get an A.” University of Kentucky Upperclassman

Will Stone, Writing Workshop Instructor, “Setting up a visual color-coded calendar, maybe have a digital and a hard copy at hand as well.” University of North Texas Alumnus

Jill Page, ACT Prep Instructor, “Reach out to professors, take advantage of contact with them, talk about the subject, visit them during their office hours, even if it is 5 minutes.” University of West Florida Alumnus

Kyle Mullen, Reading Workshop Instructor, “How many great opportunities are out there. Talk to your professors and find out about their interests. Be proactive!” University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Alumnus

Russell Williamson, Accounts Coordinator, “Knowing the difference between process and product: education is a process and knowledge is the end product. Instructor interactions give you an opportunity to learn how they process information and it gives you the learning tools.” University of Kentucky Alumnus

Emilia Witt, Student Program Coordinator, “Being an out-of-state student, it is very important to get involved on campus.” University of Kentucky Upperclassman

Bethany Sharpe, Reading Workshop Instructor, “How to do research.” University of Louisville Alumnus

Amanda Smith, GRE Prep Coordinator, “Do research as an undergrad.” SUNY Geneseo State University Alumnus

Amanda Karls, EPE 174 Instructor, “There are plenty of opportunities to work with faculty and staff if you are willing to take the step to interact with them. Undergraduate research is a great opportunity. Everyone should try it.” University of Wisconsin at Madison Alumnus

Dana Malone, EPE 174 and APP Instructor, “I wish I knew to take reading notes when I read for class. It takes longer on the front end but pays off in the end. I retain more of what I read and then have something to study from later.” Lee University Alumnus

Kristen Hamilton, Student Program Coordinator, “Not to take more than 18 credit hours as a freshman.” University of Kentucky Upperclassman

Beth Neiser, Assessment Coordinator, “Knowing my learning style really helped me in understanding myself and how I learn. Just because my friend can understand all the material after listening to lecture, doesn’t mean I should! I just need to think of the ways in which I can learn the information. Being a kinesthetic learner, I need movement during studying.” University of Kentucky Alumnus

Dr. Karin Ann Lewis, Assistant Provost and Director of Academic Enhancement, “Organizing and planning is key. Time how long it takes you to walk from one location to another so you leave enough time to get place on time. Everything takes longer than anticipated, so build in extra time to complete work. Also, divide up large assignments and do chunks each day.” Cornell University Alumnus

David Pascale-Hague, Study Smarter Seminar Instructor, “Ask for help when you feel out of your depth. Whether it’s a classmate, professor, or service like The Study, get to know what’s available and build connections early so you can ask for help when needed. Learn to see asking for help as a show of strength and not an admission of defeat. Secondly, take a break when needed. Plan self-care into your schedule so you don’t implode (or explode for that matter.)” Asbury College Alumnus

Katie Avra, Outreach Coordinator, “Be your own educational advocate. No one can represent you better. Also, be brave and say hello to someone new each day. You will likely meet friends you will have the rest of your life.” Northern Kentucky University Alumnus

Anna Gatewood, Assistant Director, “Don’t take no for an answer.” Valdosta State University Alumnus

Penny Robinson, Math APP Lecturer, “You don’t have to have it all figured out. Don’t let yourself get boxed in one area, get out there!” Maryville College Alumnus

Eric Snyder, EPE 174 Instructor, “Networking is key. Nothing could be more true than ‘It’s not what you know, it’s WHO you know.’ There are thousands of students and hundreds of faculty on campus. Build informal and formal relationships with the people around you, they can help you in the future. California University of Pennsylvania Alumnus

Ian Banta, Math APP Instructor, “College isn’t about grades it’s about learning. Meeting people isn’t scary; it is fun!” University of Kentucky Alumnus

Eric Weinberg, Technology Coordinator, “Doing something incorrectly can be the first step in doing something great. You can’t be afraid to fail.” University of Wisconsin at Lacrosse Alumnus

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Be Money Smart with AE

Contributor: Katie Avra, Outreach Coordinator at AE

Managing your money in college can be a challege. AE wants to give you some smart tips towards saving in college, making a budget, and making your money work for you!

MONEY WASTERS: Did you know that every time you skip class you are wasting your money?
Here are the facts!
 UK Students who are KY residents spend $4564 per semester on tuition. If you skip classes 1 day you blew $57.05.
 UK Students who are Non-KY students pay $9370 in tuition a semester. When you skip class you waste $117.14 a day.

BUDGET TIPS:
Keeping up with a budget doesn’t seem like fun but is useful when you want to go on spring break, pay off student loans, get a new car, or take your significant other out for a nice night. Start your financial training now. Train your brain to think smarter not harder. Planning even a little can help a lot in the end.
1) Start with an excel spreadsheet, graph paper, or go online to http://financialplan.about.com/od/moneyandcollegestudents/l/blcollbudget.htm
and use their online template.
2) Track how much you are spending per week and per monthly in total. You can see how quickly your daily cups of specialty coffee and 4th meals add up!

BUDGET BREAKERS: CREDIT CARDS
1) If you already have credit cards, use them with caution. Only charge items that you know will be able to pay off at the end of the month or in emergency situations.
2) If you currently have a credit card balance, pay more than the minimum balance otherwise you are basically paying the interest.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Fall Fashion 2011

By: Laura McGehee- Marketing Intern

Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and football season all mean one thing- fall fashion is here! Whether you are heading to class or out with your friends, we have a fashion survival guide to give both men and women ideas of popular trends for fall.

Ladies:
• Long dresses from the summer are making their way into fall. Pair them with sky-high wedges and a blazer.
• Mixing patterns is essential for mastering fall fashion. Mix and match your floral dresses with patterned sweaters or plaid designs with floral skirts.
• Pair sleek pants with blousy tops in floral and sheer patterns.
• Dresses paired with a structured jacket can be appropriate for day or night.
• Masculine footwear is all the rage! Wear combat boots with dresses or with skinny jeans and a retro top.
• Sequins and studs are still in this season, so spice it up by pairing them with their opposites- Sparkly sequins with a dark and edgier jean or shoe and studs with florals and plaids.
• Colored denim is also back and looks great with a neutral top.
• Wear a dress to the football game or daytime event with boots that reach mid calf or knee, and spice up your outfit by changing into suede ankle booties for the night.
• A-line skirts with fitted tops are always a popular choice and look great with a statement necklace or a motorcycle jacket.
• Furs are coming back and are a great piece that will transition into your winter wardrobe. Fur vests paired with a plain black top, skinny jeans, and knee high boots are an instant hit.
• Brights are going strong into fall! A quick and easy outfit consists of a solid bright top and statement jacket- mix the brights to create the illusion of a whole new outfit.
Guys:
• Blazers aren’t just for fraternity rushes- Mix them with a messy button down or a plain tee to create a casual yet dressed-up look.
• Dark wash jeans are still going strong- faded jeans were popular in high school, but it is time to embrace college and splurge on a nice pair of dark denim.
• Cardigans thrown over a t-shirt creates a simple and easy outfit.
• Mix and match patterns and textures. A patterned button down under a plain sweater or a plain button down under a patterned sweater creates a plethora of fashion options.
• Watches are in! Leather banded watches are a great spice to any casual look.
• Plaid, plaid, plaid. Jeans and brown shoes or neat sneakers match perfectly.

Branch out with your fashion this fall and try some of these trends. Pick the ones you feel most comfortable with and throw in some daring pieces every now and then. No matter what you wear this fall remember the most important guidelines for successful dress- SMILE AND BE CONFIDENT.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

TAILGATE with AE!

Get ready for the big game with Academic Enhancement! From 2-6pm on game day join us in the lawn between Johnson and Commons for food, fun, music from Hot 102 from 3-5 and prizes! See you there!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Show Your School Spirit

The Cats take on Louisville at home this weekend so it is time to put your school spirit into action. Whether you are a diehard fan first in line to get the best seats, or a casual fan just looking to eat great food and enjoy friends, UK football needs your support!

This Saturday, September 17th, the Wildcats take on the Louisville Cardinals. Coming off a win at home, the Wildcats are ready to defeat their rivals. Both teams will be geared up, pumped up, and ready to go at 7:00pm, and UK fans need to be just as eager for an exciting game.

The best way students and faculty can help the Cats get motivated for victory is to show your support by demonstrating extreme enthusiasm. Some of the best ways to show your school spirit include:
• Body paint of any kind- It may be chilly, but nothing shows support like a blue belly
• Temporary tattoos- Available at your local campus bookstore
• UK shirts, sweatshirts, hats, etc. Design your own or get them at the bookstore- the more, merrier!
• Pompoms and UK beaded necklaces- Cheap and easy to share with friends
• Giant foam fingers- Classic spirit display that never gets old
• UK coolers and koozies- (The Study will be handing out free koozies at our tailgate event! For more information, visit our Facebook page)
• Signs, signs, signs!- Want to get on the jumbo screen? Make an eye catching sign to support your Cats and you may get noticed
• Tailgate with your friends (and The Study)- The longer you eat, play games, and have fun, the better chance UK will win, right?
• MOST IMPORTANTLY- CHEER until your voice sounds like a raspy whisper. If you have no voice when the game is over, you have sufficiently done your part.

So whether you are a freshman or a senior, this is the year to take your spirit over the top. Get loud, stay proud, and watch the Cats bring home a victory!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

MONEY SMART: Getting more BANK for Your $BUCK$!

Many banks have YOU in mind!
Banks have college student accounts and promotions. Here are some items to consider and places to start!

Making your Money WORK for YOU!

Monday, September 5, 2011

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Two-Friend Rule

Do you want to better grasp class material, achieve higher grades, or even just make new friends? It’s simple: try branching out this year and embracing a two-friend rule in every class!

Starting the new school year and new classes can be intimidating even for social butterflies.   Everyone is nervous about how difficult the teacher will be, how much work will be required, and if they will recognize anyone in class.  You are not alone! We are all in the same predicament and mustering up the courage to talk to a new face doesn’t have to be the most intimidating aspect of college.

In each of your classes, step outside your social bubble and socialize with two new people.   These people can become your point of reference for what’s going on in class, homework materials, and even weekend plans.  Getting to know your classmates is a great way to avoid missing an assignment or going into a test confused on the material.  

Introducing yourself is as simple as blurting out your name.  Be brave, sit down, and say, “Hello.”  People will be more receptive than you think and you possess the ability to take the first step towards developing a friendship.

So take a chance and meet someone new.  You never know what kind of friendships will develop, how your grades may improve, and whose lives you may touch along the way.

5 Great Mobile Apps For Students

Evernote


Evernote might be one of the most useful mobile apps for students. You won’t ever forget anything with this app. It allows you to capture pictures and audio or write text to be saved and accessed online through your computer, mobile device or tablet. It's part class notebook, part planner and part to-do list. Everything you save to Evernote is organized and easily searchable by keywords or tags, keeping all of your saved information easy to find. The app is available for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phones and the computer interface is compatible with PC and Mac. The best part? It’s all free.
gFlash


There are countless flashcard apps available for your smartphone, each with their own unique features, but gFlash is the most popular. Available for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Blackberry and Android devices,with gFlash you can create multiple flashcard sets, track your progress, and even design multiple-choice flashcards. You can integrate your mobile app with your Google account to upload new decks or share with friends. There are a number of already-created decks from the gWhiz catalog that can be used as well. If you’re someone that learns best by using flashcards, this is a must-have app...and it’s cheaper than regular flashcards (it’s free).
Chegg


Chegg allows you to search for your textbooks, compare prices with different retailers, order and track the progress of your delivery. They’ve all wrapped this service into a convenient mobile app, making finding and purchasing or renting your textbooks a little easier. It’s available on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch...and it’s free.
Sleep Cycle


Getting a good night’s sleep can be just as important to your academic success as the time you’ve put in studying. Sleep Cycle replaces your typical phone alarm clock with a system that monitors your movements during the night (using bulit-in iPhone technology) to determine the best time to wake you up. Using your movements throughout the night, the app keeps track of your REM sleep and sounds an alarm during your lightest sleeping stage so you wake up feeling refreshed...Sounds strange right? It works though! It only costs $0.99 and is currently only available for iPhone, a small investment for a good night’s rest.
Blackboard Mobile Learn


Many classes on campus utilize Blackboard for posting readings, assignments, grades and more. All of this can be accessed through the Blackboard Mobile Learn App. Now you can check assignments on the go, catch up on readings when you’re away from your computer or give your grades a quick check before you take an exam. A convenient app, especially since it’s free and available for iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, Android and Palm phones.

An Interview with UK's Education Abroad Department

College is full of opportunities…opportunities to learn, meet new people, explore viewpoints different from your own and really find your place in the world. This probably isn’t news to you. Living in Lexington exposes University of Kentucky students to a number of cultural traditions, activities and resources that might not be available at other colleges. There are limitations, however, to what UK and Lexington can offer to a student. There’s a great big world out there with prospects way beyond what any one city, state or country can provide. That’s where UK’s Education Abroad (EA) department comes in. EA provides resources and advising for students to take a step out of Lexington during their college career and find out what other cultures have to offer. The opportunities are almost boundless — traveling abroad can be one of the most exciting, memorable and beneficial experiences you may have as a college student. Unfortunately, many students are uninformed or apprehensive about exploring their possibilities to study outside of Lexington. Summer Eglinski, one of EA’s advisors, was kind enough to answer some questions about the Education Abroad department and the resources available to students who may or may not have considered studying abroad.