katherinegentile-blog-blog

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Last Dress Sale... EVER

I feel like recently there has been a lot of "last...EVER"'s. Today is the beginning of the end for one that is very dear to my heart... kind of. The dress sale is a large part of PRSSA. It's the one event we have every semester. Its a lot of work for such a short event, but if you ask anyone what they remember of PRSSA, there is no doubt in my mind the dress sale would come up. It's not because it's anything magical. To be entirely honest, its stressful. It's one of the events that I look forward to the end, but looking back I might miss it.

The concept is wonderful. We collect gently used dresses for young women who are not able to afford the latest trend dresses that just arrived at the department stores. Instead, they're able to purchase a dress with a story. Whether it was donated by Renaissance or a local York College student, the person who donated it wanted it to go to someone deserving. As far as deserving goes, though, every girl going to prom is just that. Every single young woman attending a dress deserves to feel like a princess. I think PRSSA assists in that mission. That makes this long weekend at least a little bit worth it--and the fact that it looks nice on a resume does not hurt, even when its your fourth dress sale.

Stop by the West Manchester Wall tonight from 4 to 9, tomorrow 11 to 4 or Sunday 1 to 4. Tonight there is a fashion show at 7.

So in the middle of a semester full of "last...ever"'s, this one I think is more of a celebration.

Let the festivities begin, last dress sale...EVER?!?!?!

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

A blessing in disguise

York's weirdly scheduled winter break started today. There is honestly not one other school that has off during this time, which I used to hate passionately. Now, it comes as more of a blessing. Today I spent the entire day out with my best friend who came home for the weekend, and I will be spending the evening with all of the girls who ventured home for the night. Basically 24 hours consisting of non-stop catching up about school, friends, boyfriends, ex-boyfriends, being excited for the future, being absolutely terrified for the future, the ever-daunting job search, graduation and the past. The past ALWAYS creeps in there, probably because its the one thing that has and will mold you into the person you are and will become. There are so many hysterical stories-- one's that make you desperately yearn for the "back then's". Then, there are the times that make you glad you've experienced them but are so glad you never have to go back. Ultimately, these 24 hours will be filled with laughter and tears, both of which will be incredibly refreshing and overwhelming at the same time. As much as I love the revisit to the past, I'm also looking forward to the following week filled with relaxation and contemplation about where exactly I want to be in two months. The past is a huge part of the decision making. After all, experience is sometimes more educating than any class ever could be. So thank you York, I never thought I'd be so grateful for an entire week at my disposal to simply think. Happy thinking :)

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

The Many Perspectives of One Position

I think it's safe to say that PRSSA ran my life last semester. This semester, however, it has been dramatically different. I went from having not a minute free to having entire days free. Some of which I use wisely--others I use to stalk every picture from New York Fashion Week. This is in large part due to how my role has shifted. Last semester, I had my own event that I was very involved in, some would say obsessed. This semester, I followed advice to delegate work. Therefore, the three events happening this semester (Special Occasion Dress Sale, Kickin' Cancer and Take Back The Night) all have enthusiastic account executives who rarely need me. Although I look over progress, go to committee meetings and meet individually with them occasionally, it is nothing like three months ago. My position is different.

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about it. 

I think my roommates are probably happy that I don't spout the acronym PRSSA every blinking moment. I don't mind it either, I guess its just experiencing everything from a different angle. That can't hurt, right?

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Mood = Bitter.

My mom made me apply for graduation. I have no words, I also no longer have 60 dollars. To add to the list, I'm graduating. This is bologna.

In all seriousness though, I don't want forever to start so soon.

My roommates dog, Wilson is cuddled up next to me right now because our house is an icebox. But I wouldn't trade this icebox for a diploma any day-- and I don't even really like Wilson, he smells. In addition, our dishwasher is currently filled with bubbles and I'm not too keen on cleaning, but I'll clean that everyday if real life would just postpone itself until I'm ready. 

When I say my mom made me apply for graduation, what I really mean is she suggested that I do not stay an extra semester when I already have more than enough credits. She also kindly stated that her budget does not include laziness, and that mine should probably not either. (I guess I have to make a budget before I graduate, too).

I don't know if I'll ever be ready. I'm not sure if anyone is ever really, entirely and completely ready to leave the safety net and plunge into a world that can seem so devastating at times. 

Despite all of this, PRETTY LITTLE LIARS IS ON TONIGHT and SHAMROCK SHAKES ARE BACK and I'm not graduating until May 12 (the day after my 22nd birthday). I'll tell you something, though, I'm not leaving my bed that morning without a mimosa in hand.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

I love the word ϋber

I have this ϋber lovely best friend. We're the kind of friends that talk the same, dress the same, laugh the same and know exactly what the other is thinking on a regular basis... which is probably why I think she's ϋber lovely. We even both have red hair, so when we go out we play the sister card all too often, but who wouldn't? Regardless of all of that, she goes to OSU (super huge-- like SUPER huge) and she's been to YCP once (I've only been there once too so I can't even be mad). OSU and YCP are complete opposites, so it's weird to think that two people who are so much alike can be totally happy at places that are so incredibly different. But then you have to remember that life is what you make it. Both schools have an outpouring of opportunities beyond mine--and her-- wildest dreams. Its what you take advantage of, how you choose to love--or hate-- and ultimately whether or not you want to be happy. YCP may not have the enormous campus that OSU offers, but I know a handful of people walking to and from class. My best friend is loving her life, but every time we talk, she mentions at least once how she can't wait to visit. There's always something to love and its usually right in front of your face, you just have to be brave enough to recognize it. 

She also just recently recommended listening to People Help People by Birdy. YouTube it (for your convenience...), it's almost as lovely as her! 

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Choices

So... turns out I'm actually not ready to be a grown up. I made a major decision to take a publications editing design class (which quite possibly my favorite person at York College is teaching) instead of staying at the internship. Although the decision was based on multiple things, one important factor was after just two days I realized it was not what I wanted to do. I had no idea that the reason I enjoyed interning at LLS and the York College Communications Department so much, might be because both could be the type of work I'd like to pursue. 

Anyway, although I would learn a tremendous amount--its my last opportunity to engross myself in the college life. The life of taking classes, studying at the lib with my oh so lovely friends and ultimately completely and thoroughly enjoying being young. Yeah I know I'm not going to be an 80 year old woman the minute I graduate college, but I'm not going to be a student either.

That place in between young and old is one I look forward to exploring, but I plan on taking my sweet time getting there.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you are right.

Henry Ford

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Can I get a what what for 8am classes

I started my internship at Abel Communications in Harrisburg yesterday, and for an entire day I was called Katherine. So weird, because that's my grown up name. For 9 hours straight, I was a grown up. I sat in on a meeting with important people about important information, 90% of which was completely new to me. It was quite possibly one of the longest days, and I didn't really like it that much but I have never learned so much in a 9 hour period of time in my life.

Maybe that's being a grown up, dealing with things that you might not like but know that are good for you.

I've never liked having classes at ycp so much until now. Those zoology 8ams aren't so bad as opposed to having to be in Harrisburg at 8:30am -- dressed presentably, mind you.

Plus though-- this grown up gets a salad bar at lunch.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

THIS IS IT

Tomorrow is my last first day of school.

Where on earth did the last four years go?

I am super excited for this semester. However, whatever possessed me to schedule 8am classes for the first time during my last semester is beyond me. But zoology for a pr student bright and early it is.

Also, seeing that York College on facebook posted Sen. Pat Toomey will be the speaker at spring commencement was definitely a rude awakening today. Its really going to happen in four months. All of this will be just another memory. SO NUTS. 

Although it is happening so fast and is really sad, there is so much to look forward to in the next semester. PRSSA is doing many things to help the community. Saint Patrick's Day is my favorite holiday. The spring concert. I mean living on Jackson Street with some of my best friends is a privilege in itself. 

York College has been so very good to me in the past three and a half years and I cannot wait to see how great it will be to me for my last three and a half months.

See ya at 8am YCP... 

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

New Year, New Changes (joining the bandwagon of clichés)

Its five days past New Years and by this point most people have made their new years resolutions and most likely have broken them as well. I had done neither, up until 10 minutes ago. I considered the diet plan, but its so overrated and every single time I start counting my calories I feel like I end up counting the days until I can eat again. However, with that being said, there are so many little changes you can make that can make a whirlwind of difference.

First step? Cutting out my beloved DC on the rocks (translation = diet coke with ice, must be fountain soda). I'm an addict. I don't smoke, alcohol is not my favorite and I get a pit in my stomach every time I drop five dollars at the casino. Therefore, I had never known addiction until I sipped on a spicy dc. Anyway, this will be the most challenging for obvious reasons. The replacement? Water--sometimes with lemon to add a little spice to my life and lemon juice does wondrous things for the body.

Numero dos? I should probably do some sort of physical activity. Mind you my mother passed on the metabolism of an 8 year old girl so the physical activity is foresight for when I lose that trait with age. However, it would be nice to have a toned stomach that of a photoshopped celebrity, but I don’t know how magical working out really is.

Finally, simply trying to eat better would be a plus. There are so many little things that can help, like not eating past 9 p.m. (which I tried in high school and it was super easy and super effective). Or cutting down portions, probably should be done on the regular especially at restaurants.

My friend from school religiously follows the tone it up girls (@ToneItUp), something I don’t think I could ever have the drive to do—but it clearly works for her. Perhaps one day I will be as dedicated. For now, baby steps

Mind you, I am the last person who would be described as “incredibly healthy,” but I’d say I’m pretty average. This year though—totally above average. We will see how long this lasts school starts again.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

BLOOMIE'S!!!!!!

I got the best present in the world for Christmas... a Bloomingdale's credit card with my name on it!!!! Santa knows me too well and my mother and father trust me too much. But I am officially a Bloomie's girl, even though I have been a dedicated shopper all of my life. I have a debit card, so I have known the responsibility this represents a little. But Bloomingdale's is my thing. Its the peanut butter to my jelly.

You can take the girl out of Bloomingdale's, but you can never take the Bloomingdale's out of the girl.

However, with this comes an immense amount of responsibility, because let's remember the bill will come in my name. Considering the fact that I am graduating in less than 5 months, I'm pretty good with the responsibility thing-- so I'm not really worried. I just love seeing that Katherine A. Gentile on the pad when I slide my card. Its a sense of ownership. I just LOVE it.

I got other wonderful stuff for Christmas too, but when my mom handed me the card this morning, I've never felt so powerful. 

ALSO, holler back for a 3.74 gpa, best I've had at college. Goes to show that being a busy girl leads to a productive semester.

For the record, there's no Bloomingdale's anywhere near York. I think my mother finds solace in knowing that.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Reading Day Eve

'Tis the night before reading day and all through the house not a creature is stirring... because they're all out having fun and I kind of wish I was with them.

Tomorrow I have an interview for an internship that I don't necessarily need for credit, but the experience would be incredibly beneficial to growing as a professional. It is an internship with a PR firm, the only piece missing from my internship puzzle. Not to mention, having three internships on my resume may help me a good bit in the not so far away future. So... I'm jumping in my big girl pants and sitting out on this traditional holiday in the world of York College.

Growing up is so very bittersweet.

As I go to bed before the clock even strikes midnight, I bid this lovely day adieu and hope that my decision will prove to be the right one. A.K.A. if I don't get this internship I'm going to be thoroughly annoyed.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

$2,227.81

SERIOUSLY?!?!?

BATTLE BLOOD benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) has come to an end (finally). All of that hard work that my committee and I put in, paid off---ridiculously. Our goal, as you know, was $2,000.00. Two months ago, that seemed inconceivable.

However, on this day, I am happy, no THRILLED, to report that not only was $2,000.00 achievable, it was beatable.

For that reason, 75 cents of every dollar of $2,227.81 will be spent on research to find a cure for blood cancer and essentially all cancers.

YCP PRSSA has joined LLS in the battle against blood cancer, and will forever be relentless for a cure. BATTLE BLOOD :):):)

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

This is late but... I'm going to Broadway

Have you ever seen the movie The Women? The one where there are zero male characters, but the movie is completely about men? The one starring a thousand different female superstars (Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, Eva Mendes, Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett Smith, to name a few.) I saw it today, not on purpose at all.

However, a couple of weeks ago I purposefully went to see the YCP Players rendition of the popular movie. It was kind of better. Although it was obvious that it was difficult to create some of the scenes on a stage as compared to a million dollar movie set, the humor was way more evident as a theater production.

I enjoyed the movie, but I laughed out loud at the play. I never realized the difference between live theater and just watching a movie on the screen.

I may even have to go see another play on purpose... Broadway, here I come! [then I can shop, too. :)]

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY week

This week was ridiculousincrediblebusyawesomelongfastUNBELIEVABLE. Did it happen?

So. From the beginning. Last Monday, I had a test that I HAD to do well on. No excuses, it had to be a substantially large improvement. So I studied, a little. Bigger things were on my mind, you understand.

Tuesday, I probably had a lot to do also. Again, bigger things were on my mind, I swear you'd understand. Wednesday--Thursday-- yes they're all the same.

Friday?!?!? yeah. BATTLE BLOOD benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) HAPPY HOUR (a little more than an hour) AT COBBLESTONE'S!!!! A lot of preparation went into this night. I may or may not have mentioned before that BATTLE BLOOD's goal is $2000, that is, by no means, a small amount of money.

Rewind, Tuesday we had a general PRSSA meeting. It was a regular usual meeting until Dr. Carroll (our AWESOME faculty advisor) stood up at the end and said "Mrs. Carroll and I would like to make a donation to BATTLE BLOOD..." $100!!! Mind you, I'm thinking, 'get out of town no way this is crazy great' and my thoughts are immediately interrupted by "...and we challenge all of you to collectively match that before you leave here tonight." So my heads exploding with 'GET OUT OF TOWN NO WAY THIS IS CRAZY GREAT.'

They matched it. Surpassed it by $2.60 to be entirely correct. $202.60 in ten minutes. Seriously.

So this made me even more stressed/excited for Friday. Going into the night we had raised around $950. Eventually, everything that had to be done was finished and 5 p.m. rolled around. I MADE AN ANNOUNCEMENT. My voice on the loud speaker in Cobblestone's was pretty awesome. The drink made especially for the night, Blood Rose was delicious AND we recieved 50% of the profits. ALSO, we received $1 for every red Coors Light sold! My expectations for this night were borderline unrealistic.

I was not let down. The night was a complete success. The cooperation and willingness we encountered with Cobblestone's was super splendid. Everything went smoothly. I am happy to report that we raised $390.25 just from donations! That's without the profits from the drinks! So it can only go up.

I have never been happier in my life.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

I do my best thinking in the shower...

On Friday while sitting at the BATTLE BLOOD benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) table in the Student Union, a mother and daughter touring the school came up to me and asked... "Do you LOVE York?" (Huge emphasis on love).

Love is a strong word. Immediately I was thrown back to senior year and having the biggest decision of my life so far hanging over my head. The path I chose as a 17 year old, yes there might have been outside factors like my parents and friends, but ultimately the decision I made 4 years ago was one of the hardest of my life.

The plan was University of Pittsburgh with my best friend where we would eventually rule the world, obviously. Much to our surprise (we should have expected something would go wrong), York became a pretty big contender when a full tuition scholarship came into play. A decision had to be made and York was the logical one. So, my best friend and pretty much other half had to face a pretty different future without each other. That was the hardest part, letting go of a dream and having to create a new one without the one person who knew exactly who I was. College is supposed to be about creating a new you, I had to convince myself. 4 years later, I'm not completely new, but improved I would like to think.

I told the mother and daughter that I do love York, because it's the right school for me. I realize the pressure the daughter is under, I've felt it, I know it. One of York's best qualities is the endless amount of opportunities to grow as a person and professional in the career you so choose. And, the option to change your mind, as I did. It is a small school where you not only get to know yourself, but your professors and peers.

I do my best thinking in the shower and realized that all of that worrying and pressure I felt at the end of such a wonderful chapter is going to rush over me the minute second semester starts. I want to tell that girl to breathe, and everything will turn out right... I hope I can remember that come January.

Plus, haven't you heard that quote...

"It will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end."

Smooth sailing until then... haha yeah right, I wish.

[katherinegentile-blog-blog]

Do you guys want to hear the best answer so far for what nonverbal persausion you should use during an interview? Try not to touch yourself too much. Haha I love these answers.

Communications Professor