Monday, February 25, 2013

Small towns and shoes: An internship update

As you may remember from earlier last week, I had an interview/meeting with another internship!

I was definitely nervous at first- I got off to a rocky start. But after meeting and talking, the position turned out to be just what I was looking for!

Originally, I was worried that doing an internship linked to another place I had already worked would have made me look like I couldn't find another place to intern. It made me nervous- would I look like too small town with this on my resume?

I asked my mom - guru of all things business - and she told me that actually  the opposite is true. It shows that you were wanted back, which is definitely a good thing.

And if you wanted to get technical... I'm interning for a show instead of the company. So that distinction can help if anyone attempts to peg me with small town syndrome.



I also thought that it would just be radio-centered, like the last internship I had been offered. But after meeting the host, it turns out I'll be doing a lot more than just radio work!

Not only do I get to work on a radio show, I also get to work on the website and social media. I might even be able to do some writing!

Needless to say, it's almost like this internship was made for me. I get to do all the things I wanted to do, it's local and it starts immediately!

There's a lesson to be learned here, as always. The shoe could be a perfect fit, but how will you know until you try it on?



Have you ever experienced something that turned out to be exactly what you were looking for? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Friday, February 22, 2013

Spring break is finally here!

It's barely spring, but I'm finally on break!

This week, I'll be spending my time working on my thesis (I got a lit review to finish!), working on some assignments for classes (get ahead or go home!) and working on a PR project for my practicum class.

A lot of my friends are at the beach, but I'm back home with Mom and Dad (and the puppies!)

What are your plans for spring break? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Lilly Pulitzer for Lifeguard Press on Rue La La!

Are you familiar with Rue La La? It's a website that offers discounted designers, but there's a catch- it's flash sale (and invite!) only!

Today, Lilly Pulitzer for Lifeguard Press is available! Planners, wrapping paper, camera cases and more are on sale now!

Did you snag any bargains? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Internship Update!

Recently, I was offered a position for the internship I had previously interviewed for. If you remember, I thought I didn't do well during the interview. Surprise!

Unfortunately, the Internship starts in March and I graduate in April... so I'm not entirely sure how that will work out, or if it will at all.

I continued my search to be safe. I found an internship for a radio show at a local station. The internship would be much closer and start immediately.

I'm meeting with the woman tomorrow to discuss the internship!

I'm a little nervous - I've definitely done a few things wrong so far. For starters, she called me to talk during an assessment day lecture so I accidentally denied her call! Talk about awkward.

Then I waited a while to email her back, because I was having second thoughts.

Learn from this! Even if you start getting nervous and having second thoughts, don't sabotage yourself. I don't think it hurt me in the long run, but it wasn't a good strategy.

This isn't a formal interview, but I want to look nice. I purchased a bauble necklace today from a local boutique and plan on wearing a button-down and khakis to our meeting. A safe outfit with sassy accessories will make your personality outshine your outfit.



Have you done a casual interview? What did you wear? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Card carrier

Recently, I realized I lacked business cards.

For someone without a job and therefore, not much to put on a business card, I didn't really think it mattered... until I went to my internship interview for that Big Company and didn't have one to attach to my resume!

It wasn't a big deal, but it's always better to be over prepared. So I took advice from The College Prepster and ordered some cards from Moo.com!

I used the 50 free sample cards offer instead of buying a ton of cards. I didn't need that many and I don't feel like the small Moo logo on the back would be an issue.

I designed my own cards featuring a Moroccan/Quatrefoil print (a little homage to Phi Mu!) and my name, phone number, email and Linked-in profile.



I got my cards in the mail quickly and they turned out fantastic! They were glossy, professional and no where close to boring!

Next task? Finding a sassy card carrier! I had a Phi Mu one but I used it to carry my loyalty cards and have since misplaced it. Wah!

While I look for it, I also am looking for other options. I like metal carriers, but they're often a little blah. Leather is always good, but finding quality ones in other colors than black is a little challenging.

Do you have business cards? What do you carry them in? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Be Mine, Valentine!

For Valentine's Day, I'll be heading to Alpha Chi Omega's annual Valentine's Day Breakfast, class, a date with my sweet Daddy and finally a date with my wonderful beau!

Here's what I'll be celebrating in!

Be Mine, Valentine!



Top / Levi's skinny leg jeans / Tory Burch flat

What does your outfit look like for Valentine's Day? Share with me in the comments below!

Monday, February 11, 2013

Pay Day

Unfortunately not the candy bar, pay day is a mythical day that comes rarely as a college student.

I manage my school's online newspaper, so I get paid $150 per month to read, edit and pass stories through to post every week.

I typically like to save $50 from each of these paychecks, but last month was a struggle. I had all that I needed, but I did not like seeing my bank account dwindle, so this month I started out by saving $25.

It's hard to predict money. It fluctuates, for one. Some months there are really important things to pay for, some months there are only cute clothes to pay for. Sometimes you want to spend all of your money on sushi. It changes so frequently and it's hard to plan!

So how do you plan by ear?

1. Save something. Like I said earlier, I prefer to save $50 each month, but even half that can be helpful later.
2. Withdraw cash for food. I always get annoyed when I see a $3.25 charge for a snack. I withdraw about $20 and use it for food. If I need more, I'll get more. This also keeps unnecessary snacking down.
3. Decide if you want to save more. How did you first week go on your paycheck? If you didn't spend a lot, consider moving more money into savings. Even $10 per week in between checks can make a difference.
4. Treat yourself. If you haven't needed to spend your money on bills, food, or surprises, consider treating yourself to a little something. A piece of cake or a new necklace, it's important to keep you in mind.

Do you have a college paycheck? How do you budget? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Kate Spade for Keds

I'm not the biggest fan of sneakers. In fact, if you pretend my Chuck Taylor phase didn't happen I've basically never worn them.

Now, I like tennis shoes. Actually, a lot. They're so comfy! I just feel like I look stumpy and I can never get them to go with my outfits!

But then... Kate Spade announced she was partnering with Keds. Known for their classic canvas "Champion," they have been loved since 1916 by celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn, Mischa Barton and Taylor Swift.



While I kind of think Keds make my feet look like almonds, I have to have a pair of these. Finally, my prayers have been answered! Cute tennies!


I simply adore the white with black polka dots. I love polka dots and I especially love pairing them with stripes - mostly because I can mix patterns without looking like I'm mixing patterns.

I've already dreamed up a few outfits... a casual, hanging-out with friends outfit and a business-y, casual Friday outfit!
Kate Spade for Keds - two outfits


Will you be snapping these up in March 2013? Share with me in the comments below!

Stay true to yourself,
Alyson