​Is Buying a Refurbished Apple Product Safe?
By Elizabeth Dubos
 
Disclaimer: This blog post is not sponsored. These are my thoughts and opinions.
 
Have you ever wanted a MacBook Pro, or iMac, but it wasn’t in your budget? Well, don’t fret because Apple’s Certified Refurbished products might be an option for you. If you head over to Apple’s website, there’s a section called, “Certified Refurbished,” where you can explore refurbished Macs, iPads, iPhones, Apple Watches, accessories, and more. According to their website:
Every Apple Certified Refurbished product completes a rigorous refurbishment process that includes full testing that meets the same functional standards as new Apple products. Your refurbished device is truly “like new,” with special savings of up to 15%. Every device will come with all accessories, cables and operating systems. All Apple Certified Refurbished products are packaged in a brand-new white box and will be sent to you with free shipping and returns.
 
You’re probably getting worried if this is too good to be true, but Apple Certified Refurbished products are definitely worth it. My backstory with Apple’s refurbished products started in 2015, after my first semester in design school. The graphic design industry is dominated by Apple products, so I figured it would be beneficial to have the right tools to succeed. Plus, I liked how Apple offered deals for students. However, upon inspection, those “deals” were the bare minimum, and I still couldn’t afford what I needed. I was feeling defeated, so I started asking around in my Facebook eLearning groups about how they obtained their laptops, computers, and tablets. One of the members recommended that I check out Apple’s Certified Refurbished products because they had enjoyed using Apple’s refurbished products and customer service for years. I thoroughly researched the website, but I couldn’t find what I was looking for within my budget. I contacted Apple Support and asked how often they updated their inventory; they answered with every few days. So, every few days I would check back and see if I could find what I was looking for. After two weeks of waiting, I finally came across what I was looking for and immediately purchased it because I didn’t want to lose out on the great deal. I purchased the extended warranty as well, because I was scared about the product being a lemon. Now, I won’t get into the exact financial numbers, but I can tell you that I saved a substantial amount of money. Also, they included free two-day shipping, so that was pretty exciting! My (new) refurbished computer arrived soon after and immediately started up with no problems.
 
Fast forward six years, and I’ve never had one major issue with my Apple Certified Refurbished computer. I’ve had minor issues, like Bluetooth problems, but Apple’s Customer Service was extremely kind and helpful. This computer has not been “lightly used” either, as I used it for all of my graphic design-based educational needs. Also, for long periods of time while I was in school, I would work on this computer seven days a week for approximately 12 hours to complete my coursework–it was worth it because I got A’s! I don’t think I would have done as well if I didn’t have this computer, and I am extremely grateful that it helped me achieve my college goals. If I ever need an upgrade, I know I’ll end up with another Apple Certified Refurbished computer.
 
Edited by Jackie Morgan

What Makes VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action Unique Among Indie Games?
By Jackie Morgan
​
Disclaimer: This blog post is not sponsored, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
 
A few years ago, I picked up VA-11 HALL-A (pronounced Valhalla) on the Nintendo Switch because it was recommended to me by my boyfriend. I’m pretty picky about the games I get into, so I wasn’t expecting for this game to completely surpass my expectations and become one of my favorites. Upon booting up the game, the beautiful 2-D cyber graphics drew me in, and the ethereal techno music was the perfect backdrop for the visuals. You play as Jill Stingray, a 20-something bartender who has trauma to unpack, as she works her usual shifts at her local bar: VA-11 HALL-A. The game takes place in a dystopian city, and via access to Jill’s smartphone and lengthy conversations with bar patrons, you get a sense of how dark and dangerous this futuristic setting actually is. Though, you don’t really have to deal with that, as the majority of the game takes place inside the cozy bar as you create drinks for the customers, whose personalities range from cute and bubbly to snarky, mysterious, and even aggressive.

The first time I played this game, I did so without using any cheats or guides because I wanted to experience the game in a way that was solely based on my own decisions. Decisions in this game are important, as there are six different endings which are based on whether you mix the correct drinks for your virtual customers. However on my second playthrough, I used a guide to make sure that I made no mistakes, and I also did this so that I could unlock several secret characters and recipes. Additionally, one of the amazing steps of personalization that this game offers is the fact that you can set your own music playlist before beginning a bartending shift, which you can pick and choose from a long catalogue of funky and energetic beats.

The main gameplay involves crafting drinks from six main (fictional) ingredients, which is surprisingly quite enjoyable and makes bartending an addictively fun activity. The other main component of the game is getting to know your customers and coworkers, and by communicating with them and learning their tastes, you unlock pieces of theirs and Jill’s backstory.

Overall, this game struck a chord with me because you can feel the soul of it, and the art style and design are candy for the eyes. While this game is edgy with its real-world grit and treacherous setting, it also showcases some of the deepest connections that people can form with each other in the most unlikely of places. This game has become an instant classic for me, and I often find myself yearning to pick it up again even when I’m occupied with new games. This game just has that special something!
 
 
 
Link to the game on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/447530/VA11_HallA_Cyberpunk_Bartender_Action/

Tutor’s Guide to Tutoring

By Victoria Pippins

No matter how knowledgeable you are, it takes a certain set of skills to teach. I'm sure you've encountered bad teachers before and know how they can make learning more of a challenge than it should be. Understanding how to connect with students is just as important as the knowledge it takes to tutor them. If you're not sure if you have the necessary skills, or want to know more about them, then you're in the right place. These same skills can also be very valuable when it comes to teaching your own kids, and even yourself. To ensure that my advice is as helpful as possible, I spoke with Lexi Shealy, who tutored for nine years through high school and college, working with kids as young as 5 to adults as old as 28. Together, we identified four skills that can’t afford to be overlooked if you want to succeed in this area of life.
Patience
Lexi and I both agreed that patience was the most important skill to develop. Your students may struggle to understand the material and losing your cool with them will do nothing but discourage and upset them. Maintaining your composure is vital to helping them achieve their goals.
Creativity
This one will come in handy when you have to find unique ways to explain something. Textbook definitions don’t work for everyone, so being able to relate the content to unusual topics can be a very useful tool. Linking the subject to some real-life examples, especially ones that relate to the student's life or interests, can greatly increase their ability to remember information and keep them engaged in the process. Using multiple examples will also help reinforce these ideas and can help you quiz them in ways that are more entertaining.
Communication
Being able to share ideas with others in a way that is effective and clear is necessary in everything we do. If you’re struggling to get your ideas across or you just can’t seem to find the words to explain your thoughts, you might need to work on your communication skills. To do this, begin by taking note of the way you listen. Is your attention fully on your student? Are you observing their body language and taking breaks when they seem frustrated? As far as speaking goes, do you explain terminology they might not know and verbally check in with them often to make sure they’re understanding? If you have trouble explaining concepts, you might benefit from taking the time to sit down and write out some definitions in your own words or plan some more thorough analyses before you tutor.  
Honesty
Students are far more likely to trust someone who's honest. This is crucial, because if they feel that they can't just "take your word for it," they likely won’t be receptive to the lessons. For this reason, it's important to be honest when you don't know or aren’t sure about something. Having the foresight to tell them “I’m not sure, let me check,” can establish a connection with them that says two things: “Your education is very important to me,” and “You can trust that what I’m saying is factual.”
​
Edited by Jenna Fults
 

​Five Study Tips To Crush Finals
By: Nicole Suprak
 
As the end of the semester approaches and classes come to a close, we can find ourselves stressing over finals and longing for summer. As someone who is finishing up their last semester of college and my final week of school forever, I am here to share my top ten studying tips. Whether you are finishing the semester virtually or in person, here are ten ways you can up your study game and finish the semester strong!

1. Be Kind To Yourself

It’s been a difficult year to be a student, and everyone can feel it. It is important to give yourself a moment to take a step back from studying and take a mental health break. Go for a coffee-run (or whatever drink meets your fancy). Go for a walk and relax in the sun for a moment. Fill your body up with whatever makes you happy. I am a big believer that fries are a great study snack. Also, connect with friends and those who are also stressed about school. You can’t take care of anything until you are in a good mental state.

1. Find a Study Group

Studying in a group can help you make sure that you understand the material. This tip might be a little more difficult with a socially distanced world, but it is not impossible! Hold a zoom call or go to a socially distanced location and wear your masks! Classmates can hold you accountable and can keep you focused.

1. Create a Good Environment

Having a good environment is key to keeping you focused and relaxed. Make sure your work space is tidy. Bring things that keep you relaxed. Some of my desk-essential items include plants, water, classical music, and a nice warm cup of tea.

1. Schedule Your Time

Plan out your study-time to keep you on track. Blocking out a set time for studying will relieve you stress or guilt when you spend time relaxing.

1. Know Yourself

Finally, it is important to know yourself and your study habits when figuring out the best method for studying. Figure out if you are a visual, auditory, or verbal learner. You won’t be able to study efficiently if you don’t know what works best for you.
           
After the finals are over, it is important to reward yourself. Go do your favorite things. Watch that new Netflix series. Sleep for a week straight. Good luck on finals!
​
Edited by Emelyn Ehrlich 

Foods I’d Like to Try
By Elizabeth Dubos
 
As part of a 2021 New Year’s resolution, I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone more. I wanted to try new things, so life didn’t seem like it was all work and no play. I’m an introvert who doesn’t like change. I enjoy the safety of predictability. However, I’ve learned that too much safety can take the fun away from life. While it’s a bit nerve-racking to step outside of my comfort zone, as I did more research, I found that there are ways to accomplish my goal without making myself too uncomfortable. As a young adult, I want to make memories. When I get older, I want to look back at this time and say, “Wow, those were some fun times.”
 
As you’ve probably guessed, I have a limited and bland palette. I like what I like and don’t change it. Whenever I get takeout, I always get the same thing because it’s safe and I know I’ll like it. But whenever I watch cooking or baking competition shows on Netflix, my mouth starts watering because the food looks incredible and according to the judges tastes delicious too. Therefore, I finally set out to research some foods I’d like to try. I thought it would be fun to share my research, because maybe you’d like to try some delicious food as well.
 
1. Avocados. According to Healthline.com avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and potassium. They look delicious on sandwiches and toast. I think it’ll be a good addition to my diet because I can make it look delicious. Also, due to its nutrients, it’ll reduce bloating and weight, so my clothes will fit better.
 
2. Bell peppers. I’ve seen a lot of restaurants use bell peppers in their dishes, so I think it would be fun to try them. Plus, I’ve seen a lot of interesting designs on Pinterest of how people utilize bell peppers. During Halloween, I’ve seen a recipe that turns bell peppers into jack-o-lanterns.
 
3. Datil peppers. I love Chipotle BBQ seasoning from Buffalo Wild Wings, so I’m not too adverse with spicy foods. However, I think it would be fun to expand my palette to different types of spice. Plus, I think it would be a lot of fun to grow my own datil peppers too.
 
4. Tomatoes. I love when tomatoes are cooked, but I’m not a huge fan of them when they’re raw. I feel like I’m missing out on something, since I’ve seen them always added to sandwiches.
 
5. Oatmeal. I’ve seen tons of recipes on Pinterest that look delicious! I’ve tried to recreate them, but they ended up looking unappetizing. Maybe, I could do curbside at a local café and buy some prepared oatmeal, so I don’t judge its aesthetics.
 
6. Ham. After doing a bit of research, there’s different flavors of ham. So, I think it’s worth trying. I think it would be healthy to add another meat to my palette.
 
Six things may sound puny, but it’s a big deal for me because I’m stepping outside of my comfort zone. Maybe I’ll write another blog post about these food adventures. Are there any foods or recipes you’d like to try? Leave a comment below!
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Edited by Emelyn Ehrlich