Naturally Kimmy by Kimberly Gomez: education

Showing posts with label education. Show all posts

Monday, August 18, 2014

It's Wanderlust: Preparing for Firenze

Posted by Kimberly | Labels:advice,college,dreams,education,firenze,florence,goals,italy,series,tips,travel,voyage,wanderlust,young

Florence |ˈflôrəns, ˈflär-|

a city in western central Italy, the capital of Tuscany, on the Arno River; pop. 365,659 (2008). Florence was a leading center of the Italian Renaissance, esp. under the rule of the Medici family during the 15th century. Italian name Firenze.

The countdown has been in my head since the day I learned Study Abroad was a possibility.

My upcoming study abroad trip has so much in store and I am absolutely euphoric about it.

I'm hoping for a total Eat. Pray. Love. moment. A time to explore and find myself.

PIZZA. Cobblestone streets. Mopeds. Gelato. Cute cafés. Street markets. Beautiful and intricate architecture. Mountains of spaghetti. Italian boys. Wine. More wine. Did I mention wine?

Florence seems like the perfect fit for me.

I'll be able to take my core Business classes and thankfully stay on track for an early graduation.
I can also take fashion courses. Fashion courses in Europe? Um, yes! Totally heaven sent.

If you're thinking of studying abroad, I would definitely look into the different programs at your school. I also suggest you think of where you would like to be living for a good 4 months of your life.
As I hear, it will be the experience of a lifetime. Choose wisely!

Are you studying abroad soon and don't know where to start?

Peep my latest and tentative list of to do's!

Research! What are the closest airports? What's the weather like in the Spring? Where will I be living? Where can I go to study for my exam? What are must-do's in the city? I want to know everything possible so I don't miss any pertinent information. All these questions can be answered by looking at articles and reading travel logs from other study abroad students.
Coordinate your classes! Apart from marveling at my surroundings, I am there to study abroad. Thus, my classes are the important above all. Although I am a French minor, I chose Italy. I made sure to meet with my advisor and look over the course catalog of my school abroad and coordinate with my graduation requirements. I have room for some fun electives which I'm totally pumped for. Italy has the perfect combo of Business classes and fashion courses that I want to take full advantage of. Why not learn Italian as well? Make sure to pick a school that fits your interests and major requirements.
Apply! This obviously needs to come first once you have chosen the locale. Go through all the necessary steps and applications so that you can have an acceptance letter in your hand. You will definitely need this to apply for a student visa in Italy.
Visa! No, I am not talking about my CC. In order to study abroad, you need to have the documents to do so. After your application has been processed, your school abroad should send you a lovely acceptance letter that will allow you to go to the nearest consulate and apply for a student visa. I'm most excited about this step since it will make it basically official!
Flights! After I have my visa and acceptance letter in my hand, this will be next. I have yet to decide if I shall stay in Europe for a bit after the semester but irregardless I have to get a great deal on flights. I will be paying the hefty ticket so I will plan on getting a great deal. I hear Tuesdays around 4pm and a month before your departure are the best days to buy flights.
Packing List! I definitely need to make a thorough and organized packing list for this trip. I have a lot of clothing and shoes and a need to have them with me at all times. Since I am packing my life for those months in just a suitcase, I need to regroup. Converters. School supplies. Toiletries. Makeup. I know some things will need to be purchased in Italy but I will bring all that I can to avoid paying for items I do not need to.
Cell Phones and Bank Accounts! Clearly, I need some way to communicate while I'm there and to stay in contact with my family and friends abroad. Also, I need to take into account that I will be using Euros and not American dollars. I am a thrifty gal so I will make sure to figure out the best options to avoid paying crazy transaction fees and insane cell phone charges. So, I may be picking up an Italian cell phone and opening a bank account that will work fee-less while I'm there.
A Bucket List! Apart from studying and immersing myself in culture, I want to travel and explore as much as possible. My weekends will be spent in different countries or exploring new places in Italy. A bucket list will not only serve as a guide of to do's but also help me accomplish all my travel aspirations.

Stay tuned for a break down of my to do's and anymore that may be added.

Until then, Ciao.

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Thursday, August 7, 2014

It's Your Freshman Year...

Posted by Kimberly | Labels:advice,college,education,funny,girl talk,goals,let's talk,life chronicles,reflection,tips,twenty,young

Yes, it's finally here. It's your Freshman year of college!

Say goodbye to dingy lockers, homeroom, and everything else that plagued you in high school.

Time for flexible schedules, late nights, new friends, college parties, re-inventing yourself, and more!

As a borderline Senior in college (graduating early is both exciting and scary at the same time), I can definitely share some of what I've learned thus far.

I'd love to share what I think a young and thriving gal should know about this new, life changing, and of course awesome time in your life.

P.S. Obviously feel free to do what you'd like but just remember to always stay classy <3

Make your dorm room as fabulous as you are

Bedazzle, glitter, swarm in photographs, adorn in lights, and DIYs.... Make your room a cozy and cute place. I like to make a theme for each year and try to stick to decor that matches it.
Find ideas on Pinterest; Peep mine, I have a ton!
This is your new home! My favorite thing to do is decorate my room and create a space that reflects all that I am. Also, you want to make it's none other than fabulous when you have friends over and/or when you are swamped with final papers at 3am that are due the next morning.

Definitely check back to see my room this year will look like <3

Have fun, be smart, but don't break your heart in the process

Yes, it is your time to enjoy being single, wild, and free but that does not mean you can be a loose canon (you know what I mean). I understand college can be a free for all and a time to experiment and such but just remember that you have to live with the decisions you make. I am not as "social" as other girls and that's just who I am. People will judge you if you do or you don't and I know that first hand.

If you find yourself doing the notorious "walk of shame", don't make it a habit. It's not a cute look.
Don't condemn yourself for making mistakes. You are human and it's a part of life.

You are in control and don't let anyone pressure you or let you think otherwise.

If you go to a small school, people will be all up in your business. Keep it to yourself.

An invitation to watch Netflix in a dorm room? Proceed with caution (we know how that could end).
Don't believe silly rumors that you clearly know aren't true, just like your heels, keep your head high.

It is indeed true: Boys like a chase. They want what they can't have. So don't give it all away.

Get involved and make your presence known on campus (in a good way!)

I love going to a small school and have the awesome opportunity to get involved on campus and become acquainted with my professors, advisors, and other leaders.

Join a club, join a team, start a club, start a new hobby, get a job, and/or volunteer.

You have a lot more time to dedicate to your interests so take advantage of that time!

Make sure to use your time wisely. Time flies so fast.

Your resumé and awesome social life will thank you for this.

Photo booth fun with Diem Brown and my Committee

Stay sane.

Being a girl who can't say no and loves to be involved in just about everything, I have had my fair share of crises and scheduling conflicts. Yes, get involved but don't drive yourself to a breakdown. Make sure to make time for yourself. Schedule a mani/pedi night with your friends, or order pizza, put a mask on, and watch a movie. Whatever it is, make it stress-free!

Stay organized

If this isn't your forté, girl, I suggest you make it. You need to manage school, activities, a social life, and/or jobs if you're like me. My planner and calendar on my iPhone and Mac are my lifesavers.

Buy a cute planner and make sure to actually use it. Remember that cute planner you bought and haven't used? Time to use it. Color code or just write out simple to-do's for the day. Doing so, you'll be able to keep up with your life and make time for everything that you want to do.

Study, be a go-getter, and don't be afraid to be a nerd

I am by no means bragging in anyway but I do know what I'm talking about.

I have worked very hard for my grades and I am happy to say that I maintain an above average GPA and have been on the Dean's List every semester.
Because of this, I'll be able to apply to amazing grad schools (as long as the GRE doesn't destroy me first) and stay very competitive in the intern and job market.

You are there to get a degree. Make sure you leave with one.

Find a study buddy, schedule study sessions that involve loud singing and jamming in your PJs like I love to do, go to the tutoring center (my campus job that I absolutely love <3), or even meet with your professor.

Just make it happen!

You are fully capable of doing your best and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Obviously, a high grade point average doesn't make or break you but it does help.

I'm the girl who isn't afraid to ask questions, sit in the front, and participate until my arm falls off and it's paid off thus far.

Always channel your inner Elle Woods!

Delta Epsilon Sigma Induction

Work it out.

Late nights and an active social life can easily make you pack on some new pounds. I absolutely love working out after a long day of school, work, and a boat load of activities. I joined my school's swim team and was able to get my body into shape my Freshman year (6AM workouts totally suck). I lost the Freshman 15 instead of gaining it! In the off-season, I had to stay active. Make sure to use your school's gym to your advantage. If you can't work out at the gym, work out in your room.
YOU ALWAYS HAVE TIME. Don't make an excuse. I'm a busy person and I still make time.
You want a fit body? Make time. Find some workout videos on Youtube for free or workouts on Pinterest, put some sneakers on, and work it out in your room. Endorphins make you happy <3

Throwback to Freshman Year

Dress to impress.

The only time you catch me in sweatpants is basically never. I don't believe in wearing sweatpants to class unless it was a rough night. Even then, I somehow manage to make myself look presentable. Being that I want to work in fashion, I love to wear makeup, throw a cute dress and heels on and seize the day. Plus, I feel a lot more put together and productive with a great outfit on. If that's not your thing, I totally get it. Just make sure the sweatpants aren't the same everyday :P

Communicate.

One of the most important things to learn is to communicate. This tip could go along for so many things: professors, friends, jobs etc. Most importantly, communicate with your roommate(s). You are now living with another being and the last thing you would want is conflict. My suggestion? First and foremost, search for your perfect match! I found my adorable and amazing roommate on my class Facebook page and made sure we stayed in contact and got to know each other before our orientation. Because of that, we became best friends and our room was always to both of our standards! If you do have a conflict and don't see your rooming situation the least bit desirable, search for another roomie and take it up with your RA. Don't wallow.
If you don't like it, change it. I think that advice applies to just about everything!

Make new friends, seize every opportunity, and make it memorable.

You will definitely make new friends and who knows who you will meet!
Maid of honor? Husband? Who knows! Trust me, those friendships will change your life!
Take every opportunity you get. Go on fun trips, do the unthinkable, be spontaneous, and have the time of your life!

Feel free to comment or share any first year jitters.

I wish you the most amazing and fabulous Freshman year of college <3

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Monday, June 2, 2014

20 Reflections on Turning 20

Posted by Kimberly | Labels:advice,birthday,career,college,decisions,education,family,friendships,funny,girl talk,let's talk,life,love,mistakes,reflection,relationships,twenty,work,young

Photo Credit: My best friend Lexis <3

20 years on this planet seems minute in comparison to say my mother, Oprah, or any other wise individual. Yet, on July 1st, my 20th birthday will confirm my 20 years of humorous, unique, and totally life changing experiences.

Now that I am heading into, what I like to call, my roaring 20's, it is only appropriate to share 20 reflections that sum up what I've learned and hope to use as I endeavor into a daunting, exciting, and a completely new chapter in my life.

1. It is okay to be inexperienced, single, and a complete hopeless romantic.

I have not only cherished the fact that I have never had a boyfriend and my lack of experience but also know that my significant other will appreciate my decision to remain as chaste as possible and the ability to make kissing and the sort quite a comical experience.

2. Learn to say NO.

Remember that word you couldn't stop saying when you were 2? Well, bring it on back. You can't do everything and you for sure can't please everybody. Learn to say NO when you know you can't do something or when you need to stop letting others walk all over you.

3. Dream and always dream BIG.

Even with a mother and a father who constantly tell me to write my goals down and to listen to Jim Rohn or Robert Kiyosaki audio books on the daily, I will always dream for what some may think is unattainable. If I hadn't done that, I for sure wouldn't have been featured in Seventeen Magazine at 16, been a featured blogger who lost 15 pounds on their summer challenge, and most of all, showed doubters that even the craziest of dreams can come true.

4. Your parents will ALWAYS be pushy and have your best interests in mind and certainly, don't take them for granted.

Yes, I am the last to admit it but your parents will always influence your decisions and ultimately who you are. As the oldest, my parents are still learning to detach themselves and allow me to make decisions but being that I am still not able to pay my own bills, my parents still take control of some aspects of my life.

5. It's never too late to start over.

You can always decide to change your outlook, body, or even relationships with friends and family.

6. Embrace who you are and others will too.

Being a girl who grew up in a predominantly straight haired, light eyed, stick thin neighborhood, I never appreciated my curvaceous figure. After some years of working out (thank goodness for puberty), I've come to accept that I will never be a size 0 and that it's good thing to have a J.Lo-esque derrière.

7. Don't let the opinions of others consume you.

Who cares what other people think. Ultimately, the only opinion you should care about is that one that you have about yourself.

8. Let go and really, truly let God

Yes, I am religious and truly believe in God's ability to steer you in the right direction. Sometimes it may seem that He isn't there. But trust me when I say He never fails to make me laugh because he is ALWAYS there.

9. Work HARD

You're only young at a certain portion in your life. Take advantage of it. I know that hard work pays off in good grades, opportunities, and recognition from others.

10. Think positively

It's so easy to think the worst. How hard is it to think the best? It takes the same effort.

11. Don't let one experience predetermine others.

You failed that test. A boy broke your heart. You lost that game. Just because something like this happens, does not mean it will continue to happen. Keep moving forward and if all else fails, read #8.

12. Try something new.

I NEVER and I repeat..NEVER thought I would be able to swim competitively in general, let alone at a collegiate level. I am a work in progress, but I am proud to say that swimming has taught me both endurance and to never underestimate the power of water, especially at 6AM.

13. SPLURGE

As an aspiring fashionista, the one thing I will never fail to do is splurge on that one item. If you have a job, work hard, and want those gorgeous pair of Hunter boots...BUY THEM.

14. Appreciate the friends that you have and learn to let some go.

Some people are meant to be in your life temporarily and that definitely goes for friends. I know I've met some of my bridesmaids and future godmothers of my children but I've also lost friends that certainly don't have my interests or loyalty at heart.

15. Boys will be boys.

If there's anything I've learned, men will always be incomprehensible to us females. Some will use you, mess with your feelings, call you pretty, kiss you, ignore you in public, lie, and flat out tell you they want nothing to do with you. Apart from these facts, I just know that one day, although it seems completely dismal most of the time, the right guy will come along and most certainly, confirm these facts for you.

Just kidding! That guy will most definitely make all that heartache a thing of the past.

16. Cherish the present.

You know when you say "I can't wait!"? Instead of wishing you were 21 or wishing that you had your own place so you can do whatever you want (like walking around naked and eating like no tomorrow), relish what it's like right now. At this moment, you're the oldest you've ever been and the youngest you'll ever be.

17. Take care of yourself.

Work out. Eat well. Take care of your skin. I have aspirations of aging like J. Lo or Jennifer Aniston and that does not happen by sitting on a couch all day and not using wrinkle cream.

18. Accept your mistakes.

Yeah, you wish you hadn't done that or made that decision, but guess what? You did. Can't change the past and if it weren't for those decisions, you wouldn't be where you are right now. I've made plenty and frankly, I couldn't be prouder.

19. Speak your mind.

If you have something to say, say it. If you don't, then who will do it for you?

20. Accept who you are and don't ever be ashamed of it.

I am by far an awkward, unapologetic, innocent, and ambitious girl. Some people take advantage of it but others love those things about me. Some may think I'm a nut, weird, and completely clueless. Although some of it may be true at times, I honestly can say that I am proud of who I am and will continue to be just those things.

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It's Wanderlust: Preparing for Firenze

It's Your Freshman Year...

20 Reflections on Turning 20

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