Archive for February, 2011

Where to Meet New Friends

Tuesday, February 15th, 2011

image credit: gracearlington.com

Coming to college every day, you meet an enormous amount of people. However, you do not get to see them too often, as you usually jump from class to class with a ten-minute break in between. Hopefully, you don’t get to talk to someone sitting next to you while classes are in session, as it is usually a distraction for others, so how do you make new friends on campus? I recall my high school friend saying once that our high school and college friends are the best for life because, as she believed, “they don’t need anything from you; they appreciate you the way you are as a person.” What she basically meant was that later on in life, people try to make connections related to their business and meet with friends that are useful to them in some way or another, whereas adolescents get together to play games, to sing in a band, to go to the movies, to do sports and what not. I don’t fully agree with her, as I think that friends are friends no matter where they work, and good friends appreciate personality first at whichever age they are. However, the truth is: as we get older, we get sucked into a career or taking care of sick relatives, start a family or our own business, and we don’t have as much time to go out with friends as we used to, while being in college. (And note: there are no discounts as great as student discounts, which encourages going out as well). Therefore, while being a student, everyone should try to make connections with as many peers as possible. The question is: where will you meet them if you are just running from a class to class?

The answer is: nowhere. But don’t be frustrated: the key is not to limit your college experience to being in class. There are always lots of opportunities to meet new people on campus. You just have to find out if they are available in your university. Here are some ideas on where to meet other students with interests similar to yours.

Library. Everyone goes to a college library once in a while, whether you need to copy a passage from a textbook or someone’s notes, or to read an extra article to prepare for a test. Sometimes students hang out in the library during their breaks; they have nothing to do and they use their free time to study a little bit. I found out that there were study group rooms in my college library where students could discuss the material for their group presentation, or ask each other questions. A library is a good place to meet people and get some tutoring. If you struggle with math, find someone who has the same problems, or, if you’re lucky, no problems, in this area. It is always easy to share the burden, especially if you are in the same class, so don’t hesitate to talk to people. They are usually willing to help.

Gym. If your school has a fitness room or a pool, this is another place you should visit often. First of all, it is a great part of your student savings (free workout whenever you want), so why should you miss it? Secondly, you may meet some interesting individuals while stretching or running and maybe learn new exercise techniques. I remember meeting the same people in the gym, and I would always talk to them, even if I had a limited amount of time to workout. I would pant running on a treadmill while shortly replying to what they were saying to me. A better place to chat for me was the college pool or sauna because people are usually more relaxed and speak more eagerly.

College clubs. I have emphasized the importance of college clubs before, and I won’t repeat myself. The only thing I would say is that a college club is a great opportunity to make a connection with those who are passionate about things you like. If you are a historian, join the History Club, and you never know how much additional knowledge you can get out of it.

Free events. Many colleges have students perform on stage for their peers for no charge. It is an awesome chance to see what other youngsters are capable of and to discover how to apply your own talent. Sometimes there are also job fairs where you can meet with potential employers and fellow students who are looking for a job as well, who may give you a hint about where to look. I have heard a lot about free movie events and colleges. Students usually get together and watch a particular film with a discussion aftermath. In my college, Kingsborough, the administration always provided free snacks, or sometimes sandwiches, and beverages for those who attended the events. If they do something like that in your university, don’t miss it!

Field trips. If your university organizes any trips, this is the best way to go. I didn’t get a chance to get on many of those, but I once received a ticket for a Broadway show for only $13, and an admission to Six Flags Great Adventure for as low as $13 as well. Moreover, the park was closed that day; there were only college students and kids from high school, and we didn’t have to deal with the lines. It was affordable; I had a lot of fun and some tan, plus communicating with other students made me several new friends.

Every college has its own organizations and events. Try to attend as many as possible. It is not only about making friends and having a good time with them; you will also graduate with vivid memories about your school years, so that you will remember one day how exciting your life in college was.

Ekaterina Lalo, Campus Clipper Blogger

For more of my articles on values in New York City, check out my new blog http://nycvalues.blogspot.com

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THE MAIN EVENT: V-DAY

Thursday, February 10th, 2011

Last week I wrote to you all about the importance of planning the proper Valentine’s evening, and about how to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the expectations of this once-in-a-year extravaganza of love. Well, for today, I have decided not to conclude this 2-week installment with a continuation of where I left off and provide a list of romantic restaurants or bars perfect for sharing that Hallmark intimate moment—with every other couple in New York City at your side. After all, it is basically assumed that a Valentine’s date will consist of dinner followed by drinks, or some sort of entertainment. But, for today’s blog, I want to write about alternatives to this standard procedure of date-night etiquette. I think the entire conception of Valentine’s has been skewed by the idea of “going out.” For most people, having dinner at a restaurant is an acceptable middle-ground for meeting a person on a date, so my suggestions may not be appropriate for those just beginning a relationship or on a first-date.

Like other holidays, Valentine’s Day is built around an idea, love, that is often lost in the fray of planning and scheduling what is most likely an expensive night out. But, we must not forget the original purpose of the day that has driven us to celebrate it. If you want to celebrate the love you have for someone, why not consider creating something that expresses this instead of just making reservations. For the artistically inclined, this may not be much of an insight, as it is something natural for you, but for others, do not be intimidated if you are not a master of pastels. Expressing yourself is not about reaching a standard, but simply about mining your creative impulses to express how you feel.

If you are still wary about getting crafty, then why not forget about living up to the expectations of Valentine’s altogether by purposely undermining them. Go out to your local party store, buy as many obnoxious and kitschy decorations you can afford, adorn your apartment in a smattering of festive reds and cupid silhouettes, invite all your friends over, and throw a party that has nothing to do with Valentine’s except the decorations.

Above all, the easiest way to ensure a memorable date, whether it is Valentine’s or not, is to be creative and be yourself.

 

Written by Derek Parsons, Campus Clipper Blogger

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MAN TESTED, LADY APPROVED

Thursday, February 10th, 2011

Agreeing on a flick for a night at home shouldn’t be a terribly difficult decision for most couples, but sometimes a girl needs a little warm and fuzzy happy ending romantic comedy and no amount of rhetoric can make a guy settle down to some tear filled giggles. Then, there are the guys who agree to a chick flick and suffer through ninety minutes of watch checking and sighing, waiting to cash in their newly earned brownie points. Ladies, take it easy on them, and especially with Valentine’s Day around the corner.

Here’s a list of chick flicks, man tested, ladies approve:

Knocked Up: It’s criminal to have never seen this flick, or not to find it a source of quotable, comedic material. Seth Rogan and Katherine Heigl play a pair whose one night stand ends in conception and begins a whirl wind relationship where, like their child, everything is unplanned. Warning: may temporarily kill libido, best watched with committed partner.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Guys, don’t write this one off just because it’s got Audrey Hepburn in it. This is a staple in everyone’s film diet, and should not be ignored due to media attention and age. Nothing blows up, but this Truman Capote adaptation involves two escorts, Holly Golightly and Paul Varjak, jaded and living in New York, avoiding love and trying to make it. The score is amazing, and once you hear it, you’ll notice it popping up everywhere, even in Minority Report. If you have to choose between Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Casablanca, for a movie night, Breakfast at Tiffany’s is the more lighthearted choice.

Going the Distance: Don’t let the cover deceive you! The case for this flick looks like a made for TV movie, but it’s nothing if not brilliant. This star studded cast includes Drew Barrymore (on her A game), Justin Long, Charlie Day (Always Sunny in Philadelphia), Jason Sudeikis (30 Rock), Christina Applegate, & Jim Gaffigan. Barrymore and Long play a couple attempting a long distance relationship from New York to San Francisco. While the plot is easily identifiable, the candid conversations will keep you, and your beau, stifling laughter so you can hear the next line. I would easily label this as the best romantic comedy of 2010, hands down.

When Harry Met Sally: This is another must see for all movie goers. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’ll recognize a lot of other films imitating this one, monumental chick flick. From writer Nora Ephron (You’ve Got Mail, Sleepless in Seattle, Julie & Julia, etc), the queen of romantic comedies, is the story of a twenty year friendship that tackles the crux: can men and women be just friends? Be wary of the debates this will bring up, as it’s known to cause an argument or twenty, but if you take it with a grain of salt, this one is sure to keep you giggling.

Life as We Know it: This Katherine Heigl film takes off in the comedic department where Knocked Up left off. An unlikely pair are given custody of their mutual friend’s child after the couple passes away and they struggle to find where they fit into their new lives. This one is smart, funny, and on the girlier side, so choose wisely. Ladies, be prepared to shed a few tears in front of your movie partner.

If you and your other half are tight on cash, why not pick up some take out and rent a movie for Valentine’s Day? Keep things light, funny, and romantic with one of the choices above, and take it easy on the fiscal expectations.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

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How to Overcome Your Shyness

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011
Being shy often prevents you from flying high, and I know this from my own experience. There are so many things that you don’t know and other people do. Instead of struggling to find out where to get a great deal to a gym or how to sell back your textbooks, ask your college mate. When you graduate, you will have to search for an internship and later a job, and shyness is not the best of your qualifications you need to show at an interview. If you had trouble with communicating your thoughts or abilities to people around you, college years are the time to fight it.  Here are some tips that may help you to become more self-confident and overcome your shy nature:
1. Find out what kind of communication is the most challenging for you. Are you lost while talking to strangers over the phone, or are you suddenly shy face-to-face? Knowing that is essential because it gives you the field to work on. Once you realize where your weakness lies, push yourself to be in situations that make you feel uncomfortable. When a child starts walking, he or she is not happy falling down with every step. But no one have ever given up walking because it is so difficult. Every skill requires training, and communication is not an exception.
2. Get a job that requires you to talk. If you are afraid of calling strangers on the phone, get a job in telemarketing and advertising. First of all, they will train you to communicate with people in an effective way. Secondly, you will have enough practice, and eventually, you will get better at it. And finally, you will be encouraged by a paycheck. It will be especially helpful for you to get a job where you get paid depending on how much you sell. This way you will be pushed to polish your communication skills while looking for the most persuasive ways to get them to buy your products. You will have to be creative, and you will have no time to be scared. Gradually, you will see that your fear vanishes with every phone call you make.
3. Visit your professors during their office hours. Professors usually put some time aside for meeting with students, and they sometimes become upset that students never show up. If you stop by an office during a break you would otherwise spend eating unhealthy food offered by cafeteria, you may discuss the test that you failed, ask questions that don’t let you sleep and even get an idea about which grade you are going for in the course. Professors can give you an academic and personal advice. Another good thing is that they will get to know you and they will see that you are interested in their subject and want to do well in their course. And of course, you will feel less shy next time you have an encounter with them.
4. Participate in student clubs and study groups. Not only will it give you the opportunity to work on your shyness and meet new friends; it will also allow you to learn from your peers and discuss problems that bother you. When you are truly passionate and knowledgeable about something, you will never be afraid to talk about it with other people, especially if they are interested in the same things or issues you are.
5. Deliver oral presentations. It is so frightening for everyone to stand in front of the whole class and report about something. But no matter what job you will have in the future, you will be required to speak at the meetings, unless you are planning to be a secretary or a librarian for you whole life. Therefore, the earlier you learn how to deliver successful presentations, the easier it will be for you to use it to the benefit of your career. If your college offers a public speaking course, take it as soon as possible. This is not only a skill that you use at work, this may be the ability that will get you the job you want.
6. Talk to random people. Ask strangers for directions, discuss the snow storm warning with a lady sitting next to you on the train and merely ask your peers questions. You will get the information you need and discover the boldness you may never knew you had deep inside you.
Ekaterina Lalo
To read more of my articles, check out my blog: http://nycvalues.blogspot.com/
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Getting the Finest Coffee at O Café

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

This past Friday, I had the opportunity to review a newly opened café on 6th Avenue. The address, formerly home to Joe Jr.’s coffee shop that has been a mainstay of the neighborhood for years, is now open as a different breed of café called, O Café. Owner and operator Fernando Aciar’s vision was to create a unique space dedicated to sustainable and ecologically responsible practices, including sourcing coffee and other ingredients from fair trade and organic growers, as well as furnishing the café with reclaimed and energy efficient materials—all in an effort to minimize the environmental impact of business while empowering local farmers and food artisans. Certainly, it is not the counter and pie coffee shop of yesteryear.

But, although many people have grumbled and lamented the loss of Joe Jr.’s, O Café is a bastion of the new type of coffee shop—one that preaches carefully selected products to ensure the highest quality and freshness possible. When I met with Fernando, he explained to me his past working as a cook, until he started his own café in Rio de Janeiro, also called O Café, and how he wanted to bring the quality ingredients he knew local farmers were growing all around Brazil here to New York City. The Minas region of Brazil alone, Fernando went on, is the single largest exporter of coffee in the world, yet is unrecognized as a place known for growing gourmet coffee as most of it is exported at a cheap price to support a small amount of artisanal growers. In sourcing his coffee and chocolate from the finest farmers in Brazil, O Café hopes to expose all the great products of the region with local businesses and farmers alike.

But enough about the political ethos, and more about the actually coffee and goods you can enjoy at O Café. Two of the signature snacks at O Café are Pao de Mel and Pao de Queijo. Pao de Mel is a honey cake with Brazilian walnuts, and spices, and then is covered with chocolate imported from Bahia, Brazil. Pao de Queijo, or cheese bun, is a popular cheesy-bread snack that is typical from rural farms in Brazil, and offers a more savory bite compared to the sweet honey bread. O Café also offers an assortment of thin, crispy chocolate bars that are loaded with various nuts, as well as cookies and other pastries. Coming this spring, O Café will begin selling fresh fruits from Brazil like acai, and other goodies like iced-coffee and freshly squeezed juices.

But, the ultimate test of a café is of course the quality of its coffee. As you could imagine, O Café only offers the finest coffee beans grown from small, dedicated growers. There are two styles of coffee at O Café: French press and pour over. The pour over method involves an intricate system of continually pouring hot water into a cone filter with freshly ground beans—it’s like a handmade version of a drip coffee pot. Coffee varieties rotate regularly, but rest assured, the quality of the beans will always be exceptional

If you are looking for an alternative to the Starbuck’s nightmare that is quickly consuming every available block corner in this city, walk into O Café for a unique experience that will remind you of the finer things in life.

Written by Derek Parsons, Campus Clipper Blogger

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JAZZING UP YOUR STAY IN NYC

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

When I arrived in NYC over a year ago, I experienced a brief stint with homelessness. I needed a cheap place to stay the night so I wouldn’t end up on the streets or down below in the subway station. I certainly couldn’t afford a hotel, so I was forced to resort to a hostel. I’d had experiences with hostels before–pervvy old men snoring in a bed only two feet away from me–and it hadn’t been enjoyable. So my spirits were low as I caught the train to Jazz on the Park Hostel, surrounded by my luggage. I got off at my stop and began the ardous task of lugging my suitcases down the street. As I looked around me, I noticed that the neighborhood was quite nice. The hostel was located on the Upper West Side, only steps away from Central Park. I paused briefly and sat down on a bench right outside the park. The park looked grassy and inviting, and I longed to explore it. But I had to drop my luggage off at the Hostel first. Standing up with my spirits revived, I walked into Jazz Hostel. 

What a hip place! was my first thought. I had stepped directly into a little lobby with funky, bright paint splashed across the walls. Rihanna was playing over the speakers. A friendly young guy behind the counter helped me with my luggage and gave me my room key. His smile already made me feel welcome. Then I stepped into the next room, which was an even hipper lounge.  Young kids were sprawled on the comfy chairs, talking, laughing, surfing their laptops, or watching the action movie that was playing on the wide-screen TV. I almost felt like I was back in my old college dorm. In other words, I felt like I was at home. Upstairs in my room, I met my new roommates, two friendly Japanese girls, and one woman from Argentina. They were all very excited about their vacations, and their excitement rubbed off on me. We actually became good friends during my short stay at Jazz.

Due to my great experiences at Jazz hostel, I stayed there again this year with several of my friends. Once again, it was an awesome experience. The staff and hostel-stayers are all friendly, the price is affordable, and they provide a great pancake breakfast!

I recommend Jazz Hostels to anyone staying in the City. The great things about Jazz is that they cater directly to college students. Not only do they have cheap rates, they also hold great events, such as bar and pub crawls, movie nights, dance nights, and tours of the city. They’ve also got three convienent locations throughout Manhattan. Check out their website at www.jazzhostels.com to get more information or to book a room! Jazz is currently offering a student discount to make their rates even more affordable.       

 

Written by Megan Soyars, Campus Clipper Blogger

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RED DELICIOUS NEW YORK

Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

Photo Thanks to Soda Head

It seems strange to say, but I love the smell of New York City. Most people complain of its filth, its odd, rusty, wet scent, but I happen to love the unique fragrance of the robust little island. Okay, so there is the occasional rancid trash bag or the urine stench coated individual on the subway, but despite the wet weather and commute sweat, New Yorkers still know how to keep it fresh.

I’m thrilled when I find myself in the wake of someone’s cologne or perfume, but we must remember to remain conscious of others’ nasal sensitivities. A good way to avoid overwhelming people with your scent, while still smelling sweet, is to use a perfume oil, or essential oil. An essential oil will give you a radiating scent that increases with your body temperature, but does not over power the senses like most spray scents.

Rub the oil on your wrists, behind your ears, in the crook of your elbow, and behind your knees. The great thing about the oil is that it spreads all day long, and will adhere to whatever you’re wearing, even if you change your outfit midday, and don’t worry, it doesn’t damage your clothing.

Another benefit to using oil instead of an alcohol infused spray is that you can reapply it in public places without causing everyone to choke and gag on the subway or in an elevator. Your scent can be better reserved for those who come in close contact with you, not just anyone on the street. This makes your skin, your touch, more alluring to a mate who can’t wait to get close to breathe in your aroma.

Some places will even let you create your own scents by combining different essential oils. Try The Fragrance Shop at 21st East 7th Street, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the number of affordable options. You can make your own unique scent, instead of using a generic, overpriced brand. Bring a friend and spend time trying new scents out, the people at The Fragrance Shop will be more than happy to help! They’re offering free incense for students when they bring a student ID, so stop by soon. Go on, New York, smell delicious.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

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Become a fan on Facebook and follow us on twitter and watch our YouTube videos.

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BE ANNOYINGLY HAPPY

Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

Happiness, to me, was always a shiny yellow ball that, when I reached a certain point in my life, would descend upon me in an ethereal manner and consume all my fears. Well, that’s so untrue I don’t know where to begin. In matters of love and romance, happiness cannot be achieved between two people, no matter the compatibility of interests, unless each individual is independently happy.

How then, can you be happy if you don’t have everything you want, or even need? The answer is annoyingly simple: it’s not a matter of having what you want, but wanting what you have. This does not eliminate ambition, or instill placency, it simply stifles the all consuming self pity that can hinder one’s ability to achieve. Shiny, happy people do well in life, but how do you become one of those people?

Power of Food: If you pour sugar into the gas tank of a car, it doesn’t run, it clogs up the work and creates a mechanic’s nightmare. Now, imagine your body as a car, you put the wrong things in and you’ll get little in return. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have fats or sweets, but if you’re feeling lethargic and run down, the first instinct is to grab for the comfort foods. The fuzzy end of the lollipop is where you’ll find yourself in this situation, because that cheeseburger or candy bar will only dig you deeper into exhaustion. Find things that are healthy, but taste good. I always feel better after I eat a salad, but I don’t stick to low fat dressing with plain lettuce. I spice it up with crumbled goat cheese, craisins, chopped walnuts, and a variety of other cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts, and maybe some croutons or parmesan. Add flavor to your healthy foods, at least you’re eating a salad. I love to warm up pineapple and bananas in a frying pan and sprinkle them with cinnamon. You have to enjoy what you do and eat, because what’s the fun of being skinny and energetic if you constantly starve yourself?

Physical Fun: What ever happened to just running because it was fun? When was the last time your friend chased you through a park and it wasn’t because you slept with his girlfriend or stole his iPod? It’s a struggle to go out there and exercise if you’re not hard wired for it, but once you get on a roll, you might like it. The key is to find something that gets to excited, something that holds your attention. I like to box and to row. I can’t afford to row, so wherever I’m living I find a place that offers boxing. I recommend a private trainer for the first couple of times, and most places will offer some kind of deal. I’m often surprised that I pay someone to make me work until I feel like passing out, but I feel great after and my energy level goes through the roof. I have friends who play Frisbee, join soccer teams, jog, do pole dancing and strip tease classes, take dance lessons, and they all rave about how much more motivation they have when they exercise, they just had to find something to maintain their interest. Even if it’s watching TV while you work out, whatever does it.

Self-Hypnosis: Alright, I know this sounds crazy, but you can actually talk yourself into being happier. A lot of us are naturally inclined to find the negativity in a situation before they look to the positive. Here’s a little trick that’ll get you smiling more: when you walk into work in the morning, before you do anything, write down three things you’re grateful for. After fifteen days, you’ll start to see a significant improvement in your demeanor because you’re training your mind to naturally try to find positive things in your environment. This also works when you’re fighting with your hubby, sit down, breathe, and tell him or her three things about them that you’re grateful for. Verbalizing makes it more tangible. I like to list three things I’m grateful for before I go to sleep at night, out loud, and it helps calm me into a state where I can more easily fall asleep, and it prepares me for the morning. Mind over matter, just try it.

Healthy people are happy people, and happy people make great partners. Try a few of these tips, and maybe sit yourself down and ask what it is you want in life. Even if you know you want to be in better shape, have better skin, a better job, a new pair of sneakers, etc, verbalizing it will make it easier to visualize and eventually obtain. Trust yourself.

Written by Ashley Teal, Campus Clipper Blogger

Visit My Blog and follow me on Twitter!

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Visit our recommended gyms:

Crunch

 

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A SWEET TREAT

Monday, February 7th, 2011

During my jaunts around the block these past two days, I noticed something different in the air. That sort of sweet, light, coolness that you associate with the coming of spring. It’s still a couple of months away, yes, but the hint of happier, more pleasant times is in the air! One thing I love and cherish during the warmer months is ice cream. Down in the south, Blue Bell Ice Cream is a family favorite. I haven’t been able to find the brand on the mean streets of New York, but I’ve found something’s that just as good: Haagen-Dazs ice cream. I love the variety of flavors they have! And not only can you enjoy ice cream, you can also enjoy their sorbet and frozen yogurt.

And if you’re a student, you can also enjoy this great coupon! Get a free scoop of ice cream with the purchase of any regular or large ice cream. Now you’ve got just the right creamy flavor to usher in the spring months! Let’s say you love ice cream, but you don’t love the calories. Never fear, you can make the “right” choice for your diet at The Lite Choice. Their flavors are low on fat and calories, but not low on taste.

Written by Megan Soyars, Campus Clipper Blogger

 

 

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A Prelude To V-Day

Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

It’s that perilous time of year again, when that one, fateful day either reminds of us how hopelessly alone we are, or how tragically in love we are. But, maybe that is too dramatic. Valentine’s Day is, nonetheless, the holiday of love, the conferred day to celebrate the success of a current relationship, or, with hopeful tidings, begin one anew. Although most people begin planning their Valentine’s evening well in advance (or at least should, HINT!), most often overlook some of the more personal measures that can be taken to ensure a memorable V-Day, and with so much pressure to prepare a unique and romantic evening on the town, you do not want the little things to get in the way.

Some of these recommendations may be seen as superficial or shallow, but the presentation of self is an important way to make an excellent first impression and show your date that he/she means enough to you to properly look the part. It’s a matter of respect. That being said, in the limited time left before Valentine’s (Countdown: 11 days!), try getting into a routine at the gym to boost your energy level and self-confidence. Most people think working out is strictly for physical benefits, but it’s also a great way to boost your mood and self-esteem.

Even if you get reservations at an exclusive restaurant, unless your clothes are cleaned and pressed properly you will look very out of place. Make sure to plan your outfit in advance, or at least have a general idea of what you might wear and make sure everything is cleaned and ready to go for your night out. Dry cleaning is usually the safest bet. Letting a professional clean and press your clothes will ensure you they will be taken care of properly and not shrunken and wrinkled as they usually come out after my loads of laundry.

Another helpful tip is to plan a trip to a salon or barber and make sure your hair is “did” just right. Nothing drastic, unless it’s been a few weeks or months, but just enough to trim you up and clean the edges around your neck and sideburns (for the guys), or to trim the frayed ends of hair (ladies). I would recommend not trying a new style at this moment. It could be a big gamble and the risk may not prove beneficial. Stick to the basics.

Perhaps my most important piece of pre-Valentine’s Day advice is to be mentally prepared. But, how to do that? Well, I recommend reading Pablo Neruda’s little book, Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair. A personal favorite, this book will reveal to you the ranges of love and give the mental readiness to embrace Valentine’s. Read it, again and again

Here are some coupon links to prepare for a date on a budget:

Gym:

Synergy Fitness Clubs

Salon/Barber:

Cocoro Salon

East 6th Street Barber Shop

Derek Parsons

Donotmindifido.tumblr.com

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