Monday, May 4, 2009

What I've Learned This Year

As the school year nears its end I've been looking back at all of the things I've learned since moving to Chicago and switching schools. And I've compiled a short list of not only things learned in class but also practical things pertaining to city life and life in general.

1. You never know how much you want an umbrella until it rains in the windy city, and even if you have an umbrella, it's so windy you usually want waterproofed clothes.

2. Star Wars came out in 1977.

3. I need space.

4. Never underestimate the number of people you can fit in an elevator.

5. A good pair of snow boots is essential.

6. Stylish coats never keep you warm when the wind blows off the lake...or during Chicago winters at all.

7. Cable TV can be your best friend or your worst enemy.

8. "The train/bus was slow/broken/had construction" is a valid excuse for being late.

9. Being late is forgiven if you bring donuts.

10. It is generally not a good idea to order pizza during class.

11. When bad/stupid/weird things happen, think of what a great story it will make later.

12. Never host parties.

13. Things always take longer than you plan.

14. The gel frame slides into the barn door....unless the barn door/gel frame is bent, which is about 50% of the time.

15. Wine glasses with water and food coloring make interesting filters.

16. I don't like risotto.

17. After the fun part of the design is over, you still have the light plot to do.

18. Papers are less stressful if you get them done well ahead the due date.

19. The library is your friend.

20. While the toaster oven makes things crispier, the microwave is faster.

21. If the Red Line runs elevated, leave a lot of extra time to get somewhere.

22. Hard work actually does pay off.

23. I have a hard time determining if Portillo's or Beef-A-Roo is better.

24. Christmas shopping CAN happen in one day.

25. If taking a Metra train over a holiday weekend, ALWAYS arrive early to ensure a seat on the train. There is nothing worse than standing for an hour or so waiting for an empty seat, especially if you're riding to the end of the line. (Harvard)

26. Leave early to make sure you catch the train.

27. Cars are not always necessary.

28. No matter how cliche or annoying your mother's nagging can get, she's probably right.

29. I reserve the right to change my mind.

30. When your boss says you can take something, don't.

31. Always carry a book or headphones with you on public transit if you are alone to deter people from talking to you and by people, I mean hobos.

32. If you are having a stressful, busy, hectic day, taking 10-15 minutes to just do absolutely nothing is refreshing and helpful.




That's all I can really think of so far, I'll add to it if something else comes to mind.

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