By: Hannah Skinner ‘23

Zoom Meetings. Today we can’t avoid them. But humans weren’t made to be sitting down in front of a computer screen all day long and you might be feeling the effects of this in your body. So what are some ways that we can all loosen up our shoulders and straighten our spines? These simple actions are the least we could do for ourselves. Below are some tips that I try incorporating in my life and have found to be helpful!

By: Claire Wong ‘23

COVID-19 has been an interesting period for movies. Movies have been digitally released this year because theaters across the nation are closed. And without the theater experience, watching movie is not as appealing. Movies have been very much marketing their films differently this season and you may have missed some. Here are some of the best movies released this year!

By: Sydney Henry ‘24

I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who is not currently living their best (covid-free) life in Cali right now. I, similar to most of you, have been at home with my parents ever since quarantine started almost a year ago. It is really challenging sometimes because the only space that feels like mine is my room. But, staying within these 4 walls all day, everyday has made my irritation levels skyrocket and my social battery empty. So here are some ways you can deal with living at home with your parents until we can make it to sunny California.

By: Nathan Vogel ‘21

Have you settled on a quarantine hobby yet? No? No worries! Here are some tips and suggestions to help you find your ideal hobby!

By: Sophia Williams ‘22

Rom-Coms seem to get all the shine whenever Valentine’s Day comes around, but there’s something to be said for the iconic V-day themed TV episodes as well. Whether you’re cuddled up with your soulmate, having a galentine’s day, or just practicing some self-love, here are some Valentine’s Day TV episodes to keep you entertained.

By: Dara Udobong ‘23

Nothing says Netflix & Chill like Valentine’s day ’21 mid-pandemic. With restrictive local and state guidelines and (honestly) nowhere to go, the thought of recreating the festive atmosphere in your bubble can start to feel very claustrophobic. Without all the fancy shenanigans—candles, chocolates or violins (give me a break)—streaming platforms are gearing up for the long weekend with new releases, movie premieres and special episodes. Here are some of my favorites:

By: Dara Udobong ‘23

Easily the biggest skincare myth floating around historically African communities is that dark-skinned people don’t need sunscreen. This was exemplified in the way I shrugged off a summer camp counsellor’s advice to rub on sunblock before we went on a hike (I definitely didn’t know what I was saying) or the diminished sunscreen options available for darker skin tones. A sunburnt picture of me in 10th grade agrees. Darker-skin tones can give the illusion of protection from the harsh sun rays because they mask the tell-tale signs of burns, redness, and inflammation. Nonetheless, overexposure to UV rays can pose as a cancer risk, especially in the never-ending-summers of Southern California. Below is a list of the best un-tinted mineral sunscreens for people with dark sin (without the grey cast!) below $45:

By: Nathan Vogel ‘21

I think film, animation, and tv production can teach us a lot about time management!

By: Nathan Vogel ‘21

Minimalism can help us live our best (school and otherwise) lives!

By: Claire Wong ‘23

Boba is a super popular treat in the USC area but at $5 a cup, it can add up quickly. With lots of time during the quarantine and a craving for boba, I learned how to make my own boba for less than $2 a cup at home!

By: Claire Wong ‘23

With the new year comes resolutions, but we all know that new year’s resolutions don’t always last. Here are some alternative resolutions that are more practical and aim to create sustainable, long-lasting habits instead of drastic lifestyle changes.

By: Justin Negash ‘22

Getting Parkside IRC was definitely my last choice on the housing portal. Everyone I knew in USC was telling me how IRC was antisocial, dark, and “away from all the fun”. I thought my freshman year, for lack of better words, would suck. Instead, I got an experience unlike any other.

Here are 3 reasons why Parkside IRC is the best freshman dorm.