earth appreciationApril 2019 Issue 7

Although spring cleaning is a popular trend, spring organization is really where you can make your room neat and tidy. Spring has officially sprung as of last week on March 20, and now is the time to embrace the blooming flowers by cleaning up our apartments, desks, cars and more. I will give you five tips to aid you in the process of spring organization!

Tip #1: Get a shoe rack to store your shoes in a stylish way! Shoes are often dirty and get thrown around in the bottom of everyone’s closet. However, by using this hanging shoe storage device, you can reach for your shoes and keep them out of the way!

Tip #2: Fold your clothes! It may be tempting to throw your clothes on the floor after a long day — or practically take out your entire closet when getting dressed — but this gets in the way of staying organized. Even though it doesn’t take much effort to make a mess, cleaning up a mess, for some reason, makes us feel like we’re exerting more effort. After making your bed in the morning, try to fold and put away any loose clothing neatly back where you got it.

Tip #3: Get a planner. During the school year, a planner may be helpful to write in all of your assignments, meetings and exam days. Make sure to only stick to one planner or use the online planner through Google to ensure that everything is in one place. Also, within the planner, it may be good to use color coding for each class so it is easier to identify assignments.

Tip #4: Keep your backpack organized. As a college student, keeping your backpack neat and clean is essential this spring. Instead of throwing papers in your backpack, take the time to first put in your laptop, then big notebooks, then pens and pencils and any snacks you may want.

Tip #5: Schedule mundane chores. For example, instead of procrastinating, do laundry because you are never able to find the perfect time. Plan out when you will do it beforehand. Also, write down when you will take out the trash to stop it from overflowing.

I hope these five tips will help you stay more organized this spring!

IN THIS ISSUE:

managing stress

pg. 3

what to watch this spring

pg. 3

Bullet Journaling

pg. 6

Organizational Tips for Spring By Katherine Hillman

skincare tips for the sun

pg. 5

earth day reminder

pg. 2

ALD & PES PRESS

A pretty and colorful planner will motivate you to use it. Source: Living Well Spending Less

Clothes shown in the photo are folded neatly. Source: The Container Store

A stylish shoe organizer alternative!

Source: Target

Alphha Lambda Delta & Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society |april 2019 | issue 7 2

April 22 is Earth Day, a global celebration of Earth and the natural world to raise awareness of environmental protection. The first Earth Day was in 1970, when 20 million Americans united nationwide to advocate for a reduction in pollution and defense of Earth’s environment. This grassroots movement would lead to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in December of that year. Policies like the Clean Air Act and the Water Quality Act followed close behind. Today, Earth Day is an international phenomenon that pushes for environmental action as climate change and sustainability become increasingly urgent issues. The Earth Day Network is an organization that seeks to educate others about environmental problems. Every Earth Day, the network chooses a theme to focus on that highlights a crucial environmental issue. In 2019, the theme is “Protect Our Species.” Deforestation, pollution and climate change have endangered hundreds of species, such as bees and coral reefs. The extinction of these species could have drastic negative effects on ecosystems and affect industries like agriculture. The Earth Day Network’s goal this year is to educate others about how they can help endangered species recover. You can learn more about “Protect Our Species” here. Talking about helping the environment is good and all, but contributing to such a global phenomenon can seem daunting. How can you make a difference? According to the Center for Biological Diversity, here are a few simple ways you can live more sustainably:

1. Say “Bye” to Plastic. Plastic takes a long time to decompose, and billions of pounds of plastic can be found in Earth’s oceans. Reducing your use of plastic can help cut back on the amount of pollution threatening marine life. Use reusable shopping bags and a reusable metal straw instead of the plastic straws found at restaurants.2. Conserve Water. Earth’s growing population means a growing demand for water. You can help conserve water by taking shorter showers, turning faucets off when not in use and using reusable water bottles — an act that will also help reduce your plastic use!

3. Look at Labels. If possible, buy Fair Trade certified goods. The companies that make these products are committed to sustainable production to reduce their carbon footprint. Buying “shade-grown” coffee can also help make an impact. This coffee is grown while maintaining the habitats around the trees so species in that area are left undisturbed.4. Drive Less. Transportation is responsible for about one-third of America’s carbon emissions. Using public transportation, biking, carpooling and walking are great ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

Earth Day reminds us all to think about how our actions affect the world around us. But Earth Day is just one day of the year. To make a difference, we need to live sustainably all year round. Environmental change doesn’t happen all at once, but each little act makes a difference!

“Earth Day: A Reminder to Think About Our Planet” By Juliette Pasquini

High school students in Denver, CO walk in support of Earth Day in 1970. Source: history.denverlibrary.org

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a large pile of plastic waste in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Source: phys.org

Bees are important pollinators in many ecosystems, but the global bee population is declining. Source: thebeatnews.org

Alphha Lambda Delta & Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society |april 2019 | issue 7 3

It’s everyone’s favorite time of year: midterm season. For some students, that means it’s time for getting little sleep, stress eating, skipping meals and consuming lots of caffeine. Some may say that this is a necessary sacrifice for the grades to reflect the work, but this is false. By managing your time wisely and asking the right questions, you can be like your peers who get the grades they want while somehow getting a healthy amount of sleep. Start studying early. However obvious this may be, the primary mistake that many students make is starting their studying journey a couple of days before the exam (or even later). Starting the material a week or two in advance will give you the proper buffer time you need to go over material you’re clueless about and ask the questions that need to be asked. This is easier said than done, of course. Students are at the mercy of procrastination and sometimes end up pushing their studying to the very last minute. To get rid of this habit, try using the Pomodoro Technique. With this study technique, you study for a set period of time and give yourself some time for a break. For example, if you study for thirty minutes, take a break for ten minutes. Then, study again for thirty minutes and take another ten minute break.

Students have to remember that they are not alone in their struggle. The entire student body of this university is going through the same pain as you are; you are not alone. Your TAs, professors and friends want the best for you and are willing to help, as long as you bring them questions. Ask them before it’s too late! Daily schedules are also a great way to relieve stress. By writing down specifically what subjects you’ll study and assignments you’ll complete for the day, you can organize the thoughts that are jumbled in your brain. Don’t pile too much work into one day, though. Spread the work throughout the week and give yourself time for breaks in between. Making time for sleep is absolutely necessary, as well. Sleep is the brain’s way of taking in

all of the information you crammed and letting it absorb. Sleep is vital if you want the information to stick! Lastly, it’s important to remember that eating does not take a long time — at most, it takes about twenty minutes to eat. The point is that there is no reason any student should be skipping meals. Skipping meals depletes the body of the glucose you need to create the energy that you are using for studying. Some students may end up replacing their meals with coffee. This, however, is counterproductive. Caffeine dehydrates your body while tricking your brain into thinking it is energized. Though you may feel awake in the moment, the end result is you crashing after a few hours. Instead, eating meals at a proper time and drinking the occasional coffee is much more productive and healthy. If you get tired while studying, try walking around for a bit to stay awake. This will give you a break and allow information to soak in as well. Stress can make students do destructive things to themselves, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Keeping up healthy habits while striving towards the grades that you want is easier than you think. Manage your stress and you could end up earning a better grade on that exam than you expected!

Midterm Season: Managing Your Stress By Jyotsna Jayaram

Coffee can be consumed occasionally, but it’s not healthy to drink it on an empty stomach.Source: coffeecorner.com

The Diner is not too far a walk, so make sure you eat and get the energy you need.Source: umdexplained.com

Departments like OMSE offer tutoring services for students who need extra help!Source: myemail.constantcontact.com

Alphha Lambda Delta & Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society |april 2019 | issue 7 4

What to Watch This Spring By Natalie Lambert As the school year winds down and finals approach, don’t miss these cheap (or free!) local performances as the perfect way to take a break and de-stress!

yMusicWhat: yMusic is a group of six New York City instrumentalists experimenting with a unique mix of pop and classical.When: Thursday, April 18Where: MilkBoy ArtHouseTickets: $10 student tickets, https://bit.ly/2FKeSxl

Spring Choral Collage - UMD Men’s Chorus // UMD Treble Choir // University ChoraleWhat: In this combined concert, the School of Music choral ensembles share the stage, offering a program with massive range and unique talent. When: Sunday, April 28Where: The Clarice, Dekelboum Concert HallTickets: FREE, https://bit.ly/2CO7pfX

Outdoor Jazz Showcase What: UMD’s Jazz Ensembles are some of the best in the DMV. Experience the soulful, syncopated sounds of jazz in this lively concert featuring classic tunes, plus original works by alumni and current students. When: Wednesday, May 1Where: The Clarice, Theatre CourtyardTickets: FREE, https://bit.ly/2uDFqeD

Alicia OlatujaWhat: She first came into the national spotlight as a featured soloist with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir at the 2013 Presidential Inauguration. Olatuja still surprises audiences with her exquisite vocals, artistic versatility and captivating demeanor. When: Thursday, May 2Where: MilkBoy ArthouseTickets: $10 student tickets, https://bit.ly/2TOvZD9

Art Attack 36 - A$AP Ferg // Jessie Reyez // THEY. What: Every year, SEE presents Art Attack at the University of Maryland. Don’t miss this year’s three performers during the 36th year.When: Friday, May 3Where: Xfinity CenterTickets: $12 student tickets, https://bit.ly/2HSh0a0

Andrew Schneider - AFTERWhat: “Hallucinatory. Psychotropic. Miraculous” — The New York Times. Andrew Schneider’s technical theater masterpiece examines human thought before entering the afterlife. AFTER uses light and sound effects, and pairs them with physical performances. When: Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11Where: The Clarice, Kay TheatreTickets: $10 student tickets, https://bit.ly/2CQd5WT

Annual Pops ConcertWhat: An audience favorite for more than four decades, this performance showcases the lighter side of classical music. Enjoy contemporary favorites, American classics and some Broadway tunes. When: Sunday, May 12Where: The Clarice, Dekelboum Concert HallTickets: $10 student tickets, https://bit.ly/2HTwxGg

Alicia Olatuja is always surprising audiences with her beautiful vocals, versatility and captivating demeanor.Source: milkboyarthouse.ticketfly.com

yMusic, six New York City instrumentalists experimenting and creating their own unique sound. Source: milkboyarthouse.ticketfly.com

SEE’s Art Attack 36 will definitely have students rocking this year!Source: see.umd.edu

Alphha Lambda Delta & Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society |april 2019 | issue 7 5

Seek Shade and Limit Exposure• Limit UV exposure by staying indoors in times of direct sunlight. This is the best way to protect your skin.• Perform the shadow test if you are unsure how intense the sun rays may be. If your shadow appears shorter than your regular height, the rays are strong, and you should protect yourself.• Keep in mind that UV rays can still reach your skin on cloudy or rainy days, so make wearing protective clothing and sunscreen daily a priority when going outdoors.

Wear Protective Clothing• Wear tightly-woven, full-length shirts and pants when-ever possible to maximize protection from UV radiation when outdoors.• Test if a particular garment is offering enough protec-tion by placing your hand in between the fabric and a light source. If you are able to see your hand through the piece of clothing, the fabric offers little to no protection.• Wear a hat to protect areas of your face that are fre-quently exposed to intense sunlight.• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to cover your eyes as well as the area around your eyes.• Check the labels before purchasing sunglasses. State-ments such as “ANSI UV requirements met” or “UV ab-sorption up to 400 nm” ensure the sunglasses block ap-proximately 99 percent or more of UVA and UVB rays reaching your skin.

Use Sunscreen• Sunscreen protects the skin from the sun’s UV rays, but no sunscreen protects you completely.• Check the labels before purchasing sunscreen. Buy sunscreens that offer broad spectrum protection, as these products have the ability to block both UVA and UVB rays.• Search for sunscreens with sun protection factor (SPF) values of 30 or higher• Be sure to shake the bottle frequently to mix the ingre-dients well before use.• Check the expiration date of your sunscreen frequently. Most sunscreens only last for two to three years before becoming ineffective.

Avoid Tanning Beds and UV Lamps• Steer clear from tanning beds that emit UV rays, as fre-quent exposure can lead to skin malignancies such as mel-anoma in the long run.• Use self-tanning lotion if you desire a tan without plac-ing yourself at risk for developing different forms of skin cancers.• Avoid UV lamps at nail salons as well, as these devices also emit UVA radiation. Though UV lamps emit signifi-cantly less radiation when compared to tanning beds, ex-perts recommend applying sunscreen to both hands before going in for a manicure.

Tips to Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage! By Maya Pillai

The sun emits three different types of ultraviolet radiation, namely UVA, UVB and UVC. UVA, which accounts for 95 percent of UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, can pass through the second layer of skin to cause premature aging and wrinkles. UVB, which can reach the surface of the skin, is responsible for causing sunburns, DNA damage and skin cancer. Finally, UVC is absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the surface of the Earth. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from sun damage:

Wearing hats and sunglasses can serve as one line of defense against UV radiation. Source: dermlagrange.com

UV exposure is highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try your best to seek shade or stay indoors during these peak hours.Source: msd.com

Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if

outdoors or following activities such

as swimming to maximize protection

from sunlight.Source:

steelecreekderm.com

Individuals who use tanning beds are 75% more likely to develop melanoma when compared to individuals who have never tanned indoors.Source: wvnews.com

Alphha Lambda Delta & Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society |april 2019 | issue 7 6

Bullet Journaling Basics By Vanessa Pessoa

Spring has arrived and so has the “in with the new, out with the old” mentality. If you are looking for a fresh start, why not try the new rage in organization: bullet jour-naling! This may sound familiar, since there are so many posts of bullet journals on social media — you know, the pictures of those super artistic and aesthetically pleasing journals that seem like they were created by the gods of Pin-terest — but there is more to it than meets the eye. Bullet journaling was created by Ryder Carroll and it is meant to be a more flexible way of quickly jotting down notes or ideas. Now, it may seem like there isn’t much of a difference between a bullet journal and a traditional jour-nal, but there are quite a few. The most prominent difference is that bullet journals are blank — some have dot-grid or square-grid pages that let you organize your thoughts in a way that makes the most sense to you. Depending on what you prefer, this could mean making lists or using drawings or symbols to organize your notes. The other major distinc-tion is that traditional journals are generally made up of lon-ger and thorough sentences, while bullet journals are more condensed. There are four overarching elements in a bullet jour-nal: the index, collections, rapid logging and migration. The first of these elements is pretty self-explanatory; the index in a bullet journal is like any other index in a book. The

second element, collec-tions, is typically divided into three subcategories: future log, where you write about future events; monthly log, where you plan out each month; and daily log, where you plan out your day. In reality, the collections portion can

be anything that you want, from to-do lists to sketch pages to progress trackers, just to name a few. The third element, rapid logging, refers to bullet points of ideas, thoughts or tasks that pop into your head, which you can incorporate into your collections pages. The last element is called migra-tion, which usually happens at the end of each month, and it entails reviewing that month’s log and deciding what things you haven’t accomplished, but would still like to move over to the next month. You may be thinking, “This is all great information, but why exactly should I try it?” Well, for starters, a bullet journal gives you peace of mind because it encourages you to write down everything that you want to remember or keep track of all in one place. They also give you a chance to flex your creativity because you get to decide what it will look like. Lastly, by writing down all of the things that you’re constantly trying to keep track of, they help you stay orga-nized and enable you to clear your mind. If you are interested in learning more there are hun-dreds of websites and videos out there with beginners guides and thousands of images that you can use for inspiration.

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Alpha Lambda Delta and Phi Eta Sigma,

formerly known as Primannum, represent two national honor

societies. Both recognize academic excellence during a

student’s first year in college. marylandaldpes.wordpress.com/newsletter

A sample monthly log with color-coding to distinguish different activities.

Source: bulletjournal.com

A creative alternative collections page. Source: pinterest.com