Finals Are Upon Us

Posted on by
1

Can you believe it? The school term is almost over! BUT before we can celebrate summer, we first have to prepare for finals.

Finals can be very hard. From the stress, to the studying, and the worrying, your body and mind sure takes a toll.
That’s why I’ve come up with a list you guys can follow to ease the stress, and focus on success.

Create a study guide

Outlining the important information you need to learn can be helpful, since you can refer to them during your
studies.

Prioritize

There are exams that will be more difficult than others, some you may find easier to study for. Make sure to evaluate all of your exams to consider and determine all of the involved factors, so you can study
accordingly.

Relax

Keep your stress levels low. Worrying about your finals is fine, but don’t let stress and anxiety take over. Complete all your work, and try and finish it early. The better you distribute your tasks during the weeks
before final exams, the better you will understand the material.

Take Breaks

Before hitting your breaking point, take a break. After a while of non stop studying, you begin to lose focus and the quality of your studying begins to falter. Give yourself a few minutes to stand up, stretch, go for a walk, and
heck your phone. Everyone needs a moment to catch themselves and gather their thoughts.

Haiti: The Caribbean Paradise

Posted on by
Reply

Finally Summer is on the horizon! It has been a long, tiring and hard working spring semester. Therefore everyone desperately needes a well-deserved summer vacation. This is the summer vacation you have been waiting long enough for it to come, thus it would be absolutely important for you to have one hell of a vacation.

The ideal place for you to spend  some vaction time is in Haiti. This is Caribbean Paradise, is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth; everywhere else you’ve been will pale in comparison. The charming country that is Haiti continue to be a coveted Caribbean getaway, providing for both adventurous and exotic travelers. The best thing is, you can enjoy the white beaches and clear waters without having to spend a fortune.

This tropical wonderland features diamond-smooth, brilliant turquoise-colored waters you’ll definitely want to dip into

Caribbean waterPhoto taken in Dame-Marie, Haiti

 

An escape to a sun-drenched destination with clear, turquoise-colored waters can sound enticing.

a Caribbean beachPhoto taken in Dame-Marie, Haiti

 

There’s not much to do on this paradise on Earth other than swim in the Atlantic Ocean and bask beneath the sun, but that’s kind of the point, isn’t it?

a Caribbean beachPhoto taken in Dame-Marie, Haiti

Do the things

Posted on by
4

a card that says "You must do the things you think you cannot do"

“Everyday I am afraid. I suffer from anxiety and there are moments of darkness that I fear there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes the fear and anxiety cripples me, and I forget what motivates me to continue. There’s this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt that reads “You must do the things you think you cannot do,” which encourages me to push through any obstacles. It hangs above my bed and each morning and night it reminds me to do daily what I think I cannot do— that anything and everything is possible.”

Name: J. S.
Age: N/A
Major: English

Rising Of The Fog

Posted on by
4

As she lay there enjoying the beautiful view, it silently took over the harbor and city. Then everything got white. “Rising Of The Fog.”

Fog, mist, haze are all the same words, but do you really know what it means? It’s a body of thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at the earth’s surface, reducing visibility.

I’ve seen fog many times before, but never have I seen it take over the harbor in a matter of seconds. At first, I was literally chasing what was left of the fog. Then to my surprise, as I sat enjoying the view, it rapidly took over the harbor. To my luck, I no longer was “chasing fog.”

 

 

old pier stumps“No matter how many mistakes you make or how slow you progress,you’re still way ahead of everyone who isn’t trying.” -Tony Robbins. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 8:10am

 

piers in the fog “In the mist of difficulty lies opportunity.” -Oprah Winfrey.Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 8:40am

 

a colorful house on a boardwalk “Sometimes we need the fog to remind ourselves that all of life is not white and black.” -Jonathan Lockwood Huie. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 8:47am

 

fog covering a city skyline“Writing is like driving at night in the fog. You can only see as far as your headlights, but you can make the whole trip that way.” -E. L. Doctorow. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 9:27am

 

fog covering a ship sailing under a bridge“Derive happiness in oneself from a good day’s work from illuminating the fog that surrounds us.” -Henri Matisse. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 9:32am

 

fog covering skyscrapers“Faith is like radar that sees through the fog.” -Corrie Ten Boom. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn NY 9:42am

 

CUE Conference with “The Buzz”

Posted on by
7
a decorated cake made for "The Buzz" team

Image by: Brianna Vasquez

Last week was the Coordinated Undergraduate Education (CUE) Conference which is an annual event that was held at City College of New York this year. The theme of the event was used to show the catalyst for change to engage for impact within CUNY. The conference explores the innovations, collaborations, and actions in undergraduate education that will prepare global citizens for the 21st century. And I was gladly able to attend the conference on behalf of the Openlab “The Buzz” bloggers team. I was so honored to be chosen to represent the team since the conference conflicted with many of the other bloggers’ schedules; I felt a certain responsibility to the fellow bloggers as well as the Openlab team. The conference was amazing as we were able to share the benefits of having a internet based haven for all Citytech students to not only use academically but for recreational interests as well. Honestly, the Openlab has been a great asset to me to complete specific class projects and to be able to connect with my peers. Through the daily struggles of school and balancing it with all the other happenings in our lives, it truly allows us to connect to our peers who are experiencing similar collegiate lives.

an edible camera

Image by: Brianna Vasquez

Being a hospitality management major and my aspirations of becoming a pastry chef, I instantly felt a need to bring a dessert to the meeting which was used as a preparation to the conference. I continuously thought about what the best appropriate dessert to represent the Openlab’s success would be and I eventually decided on a cake. As always, I wanted the cake to have a certain complexity to it. So, after making the cake and decorating as well as crafting the other pieces with the help of my sisters, we delivered the cake on the day of the meeting, unfortunately, late. But the cake was an absolute hit and received such great feedback. Everyone was captivated by the realistic appearance of the cake with its added features and began taking numerous photographs with their mobile phones. As a pastry chef, that is one of the most fulfilling moments of making a dessert, is to simply see the reaction that it causes to all of you as I enter the room with this edible masterpiece. The cake took about three days to put together which was pretty short notice yet it came together really well. The cake truly evoked the sense of the Openlab’s “The Buzz” not just by the logo but by connecting to the bloggers with the camera to appeal to the photo-bloggers and the tablet to appeal to the other bloggers. The cup of coffee was originally a joke as my sisters and I were joking about how drinking coffee is almost an essential to our lives and it was simply added to the cake. And although it might sound crazy the whole cake and all of the side pieces were all entirely edible.

a themed cake with an edible coffee cup and tablet

Image by: Brianna Vasquez

I would just like to say thanks to Jill Belli, Jody Rosen, Andrew Mckinney, Scott Henkle and all of those from the Openlab for inviting me into the Openlab family. It was a pleasure to speak on behalf of “The Buzz” team and I am truly happy to have such an encouragement when it comes to my blogs as well as being truly understanding and attentive to not only my major but all of the other bloggers, it simply shows us how much you care about all of our work. And to the fellow bloggers, I appreciate how truly connected we are despite only meeting a few times; I look forward to reading your future posts and love when you comment on mine. We are all a part of a big family of something that is truly special and I am in awe of how far the outreach has been, I cannot wait to see what the future holds not only for us but for the Openlab after we graduate and others have their chance to begin sharing with the college on this amazing haven.

Zombie Run!

Posted on by
Reply

Now that we are approaching the end of the spring 2015’ semester, it is only right we end it with some fun. I’m sure many of you are overwhelmed with finals and getting your last few assignments in but as I mentioned in the beginning of the semester, always remember to squeeze in some fun! The brain needs a break sometime.

So you’re probably wondering “what bright idea does Amanda have this time.” Well, on May 10th,  THIS SUNDAY, the DPH 4-H Camp in Long Island will be hosting their annual Zombie Race. You will be chased by a group zombies through many miles of mud as they attempt to take your health flag (you will be given a health flag belt with three health flags). Whomever makes it to the finish line with at least one health flag is a Zombie Race Survivalist. If you don’t have any health flags before reaching the finish line don’t get discouraged, you can still finish the race and also win a Finisher Medal! So it’s a win/win situation! Can’t get better than that.

As mentioned via zombierace.co website, you are also at the advantage of getting ten cool things such as:

  • Zombie Race Sack Pack
  • $10 voucher towards Zombie Race merchandise
  • 1 free beer for all locations except Massachusetts (for runners ages 21 and older)
  • Racing Bib
  • 3 Health Flags
  • Finisher medal
  • Live entertainment
  • Party! (bbq and more beer will be for sale)
  • Tons of new friends covered in mud that are just as crazy as you are!
  • Zombie Race Trophy & Prize if you win an award

So what are you waiting for? Go grab an old pair of shorts, shirt and shoes and let’s escape from these zombies ready to eat your brains and take your health flags!

a road sign that says "Zombies: RUN!"

Image by: Supply Chain & Procurement

NYCFC Passion

Posted on by
1

One of the things that makes soccer the best sport in the world are the fans. If you are in New York City and you want to see for yourself how awesome soccer fans are, all you have to do is to come to one New York City Football Club game (NYCFC). There are fans who feel they were born to support this team and it is their duty to stand in the bleachers at the supporters sections cheering on their beloved team. In every games NYCFC have played so far, those supporters have been fenomenal.

It’s not easy for a new team to be successful in their first season and play to the best of their abilities, however this fans are just happy that New York has finally a soccer team they can cheer on weeks and week out. They are all in it to display their passion, love and dedication. NYCFC surely have one of the most passionate fans, non-stop cheering for 90 minutes, the atmosphere at the games is electric. They lose their voices, empty their lungs out of air, jump up and down and sing their hearts out for their beloved NYCFC.

 

“New York had a dream . To start a football team. We had no Lamps, no kits, not even a ball. We’re five boroughs strong. Our New York was born. In 2015. We’ll follow you on” -Third Rail

a crowd holding a blue flagPhoto taken in Philadelphia

 

“What’s up Staten? And Manhattan? What’s up Brooklyn, Bronx, and Queens? This is New York City Football  Dominating other teams!” – Third Rail

 

 

a man covering his mouthPhoto taken at Yankee Stadium

 

“Here’s to you, NYCF! New York loves you more than you will know!” -Third Rail

a crowdPhoto taken at Yankee Stadium

“Come on, Khiry. Oh, please score one for me. At this moment, you mean everything
With you at the door. Oh, we’re certain to score . And at this moment, that means everything” -Third Rail

a crowd

Photo taken at Yankee Stadium

 

“Oh when New York! Goes marching in! Oh when New York goes marching in!! I want to be in that number! Oh when New York goes marching in!!” – Third Rail

a crowdPhoto taken at Yankee Stadium

Why I Chose Hospitality Management

Posted on by
2

When I first started to attend City Tech, way back when when I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, who I would end up meeting, what would happen, would I hate college life and so much more. I began City Tech, majoring in Communication Design because at that point I liked art and design, but when I got a taste of it I wasn’t happy

All of my family and friends say that I had a knack for going out to eat and cooking.. My family and friends told me maybe I should pursue a degree in Culinary Arts, I knew at that point City Tech offered a Hospitality Management program so I began exploring this option and asking around about what can I expect.

I changed my course of study and decided to begin a new journey to find my passion and to see if I was happy in Hospitality Management. At first I didn’t enjoy it because I didn’t have much people skills and was going through a tough time in my life. I picked myself up one day and told myself that I needed to really get the ball rolling and immerse myself more into Hospitality Management.

a set table

One class I have taken was Dining Room and I really enjoyed it. I liked that everyone had a chance to be a different role, person each day whether it be a front server, back server, captain, dishwasher, and etc. Our final project was to design a table for a choice between 4 to 6 guests and we also had to have a theme. The theme my group and I did was a vintage, classic look which I thought was very beautiful and elegant.

desserts and food dishes

I am all squared away with my Baking and Culinary classes and I miss it. I honestly enjoyed Culinary a lot more than Baking. I’ve never seen myself as a Baker or Pastry Arts type of person. I was fortunate enough to have Culinary 1 & Culinary 2 with the same professor (Professor Tomlinson) both classes on a Saturday. Culinary 2 is suppose to be a lot more intense, but he made it very enjoyable and not crazy.

eight food dishes

Culinary class opened my eyes and heart up because there were a lot of foods that I thought I would never enjoy like Salad Nicoise, deviled eggs, French onion soup, polenta, and a lot more. I ate things I never thought I would and because of that I am a little more accepting in trying new foods.

This semester and for my last two semesters, I am or will be taking all lecture classes. I must admit it’s different, but it’s a lot to learn and a lot to take in.

I like hospitality because I get to explore different areas of the business and I’ve found that I enjoy marketing/social media.

I like hospitality because it allows me to share my creativity and love for food and marketing.

I like Hospitality because it’s about providing an unforgettable experience for guests.

What are you majoring in? Why do you enjoy it?

Cultural Fusion

Posted on by
4

In the US Holi is a celebrated festival of colors or the festival of love where people gather to play and mingle. Not only do you get to experience this festival but also about its culture, food and hand crafted.

It is an ancient religious Hindu festival celebrated at the end of winter season to mark the beginning of spring. It signifies the glory of good over evil. Holi is primary observed in India, Nepal and other countries with people of Hindu or Indian origins; these countries include Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Fiji and Pakistan.

 

 

a young man covered in colors“Happiness is a direction not a place.” -Sydney J.Harris. Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 12:46pm

 

a young man covered in colors“A color is as strong as the impression it creates.” -Ivan Albright.  Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 12:51pm

 

a boy covered in colors

“Color is something we see without eyes, but love is something we see with our heart.” -Joan Walsh Anglund. Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 12:59pm

a crowd covered in colors“Live in the moment.” Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 1:08pm

 

a crowd covered in colors“Life is about moments: Don’t wait for them, create them.” Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 1:18pm

 

a young woman covered in colors“There’s so many beautiful reasons to be happy.” Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 2:07pm

 

a man covered in colors“Life is too short to miss out on really being happy.” Dag Hammarskjold Plaza New York, NY 2:16pm

 

8 Steps Towards a HAPPIER Life

Posted on by
7

Be Thankful: Whether you are stuck in a rut or basking in the ambiance of success, you should practice thankfulness. Not being content with something is okay, obviously we must progress in life. However, amongst whatever seems to be going around you, take time to thank your creator or fate or what/whomever you believe caused you to be where you are today. Let’s not forget to thank yourself for breaking through strides, gaining wisdom, and having the strength you’ve acquired along the way.

Have Me-Time: Somone meditate and can someone say “Woo-Sah”. Maybe it has been a long day of progress or a day of caos, either way take at least 15 minutes to yourself and reflect on the day, your situation, your goals, and the world around you. Being spiritual or not, meditation is a great way to remain calm and at peace. Use that time to gain clarity, overcome a creative block, and realize your future endeavors.

SMILE: Like Duh! Smiling is a way to show you are happy but when you laugh, or perceive to be laughing, it triggers “happy” chemicals in your body. Your body will become so used to it, that you will crave happiness and become addicted. Watch comedies and be silly. Just smile and laugh. Caution: people will think you are crazy. j/k … or not.

Just Say NO: Saying “no” seems to be such an easy task. Many people struggle with saying “no” to things that really do not want to do, to things they have no time for, to places that they hate being around and to tasks they dislike to do. Saying “yes” to something you wouldn’t put your effort into is a waste of time. You will dread every moment and procrastinate. IF you do end up completing the tasks it’s half a.. job. IJS. If you were to say “no” that will be a much heavier weight off your shoulders. Do things that makes you happy or you are comfortable doing.

Have Goals:  For those of you in the clouds, there is this thing called having a goal. A goal is something you want, hope, and/or will accomplish. You can over come said goal in the near future or within a longer time frame. It’s great to section the off by short, medium or long term and put a timer on yourself. Create goals and take steps to accomplish them. Keep track of progress and check off once complete. Make steps to complete each goal in whatever order you wish. Write them down and revisit or constantly to remind you of your place towards them. The magic in manifestation is YOU.

Treaty Yourself: … for good behavior no matter how small the accomplishment. Now that you are accomplishing goals, treat yourself. Or shout “Yes, I did it”. Condition yourself to yearning happiness and success. When you get a promotion or even cook a tasty meal reward yourself in what ever way you see fit. For example, Tweet: I just wrote a blog #GOme

Think Happy and Be Happy: It’s not rocket science. Think about ice cream or fun childhood memories. Think about the date you had on the weekend or those awesome shoes you just brought. Don’t take time dwelling on any negativity in or around your life.

Give Back: To some this maybe a hassle, maybe why they are miserable. Lol. But when you help others, not expecting something in return, you will feel great about yourself and in general. How about volunteering at a school, hospital, local walk for a cause. Give back on crowd funding sites. Teach a skill to someone interested. Revisit people in your life and ask if they need help with anything help those not as privileged. Don’t litter. Be social responsible.

QUESTIONS TO THE READERS: How do you remian happy? | How do you cheer yourself up?