My College Routine

The beginning of my day has started pretty much the same for the last four years. I wake up about 45 minutes before my first class, usually scheduled around 9:30 or 10:30 a.m. This gives me enough time to get my mind and body right to start the day off. Some things I do include checking any messages and catching up on social media, specifically Twitter, my favorite app. I then get in the shower, freshen up a bit, and pick out an outfit based on what I'm feeling. Checking the weather app is underrated in my opinion, and many of you forget to do that and end up going outside regretting whatever you chose to put on. Most of the time, I throw on a calm outfit like a hoodie and sweatpants but might change it up if I feel like really putting it on.

I'll then head to class or breakfast depending on the time. Most of the time, I'm not really hungry in the morning, so I go with a simple bagel with peanut butter and honey, accompanied by a hot Lipton tea. If I'm on an empty stomach, the go-to is an omelet with potatoes on the side. From here, I'll head to class, usually on time, meaning 5-10 minutes late. Class runs for either 50 minutes or 80 minutes, where I am usually engaged for half the class, with the other half spent on YouTube or on DraftKings making a parlay.

After my first class, I'll head to Lundy Fitness Center to stretch, something I just started doing this past semester. Being a student-athlete has made me realize the toll playing sports takes on your body, so I have been taking rest and recovery seriously. Between classes is the best time for me to pull out a yoga mat and stretch for about 30-40 minutes. After this, I go back to the cafeteria and grab lunch.

After eating, I head to my second and sometimes third class of the day. This usually runs until 1:50 p.m., leading me into basketball practice. When it's cold, I usually navigate to practice and classes through the tunnels, but if not, I'll enjoy some fresh air outside. When I have time before practice, I usually show up 30-45 minutes early to warm up my body and do more stretching and foam rolling. Practice runs anywhere from an hour and a half to two hours.

This is where my day starts to slow down. If I have enough energy, I'll go get an hour lift in at the RAC or Lundy. If not, I enjoy this time for myself to relax and find a video to watch on YouTube or to watch videos on TikTok or Twitter.

When it hits 6 p.m., I slide back to the cafe to get dinner. When I get back to my room, I usually just catch up with the guys and see what they've been up to. Around this time is when I start the dreadful two to three-hour study session of doing homework and preparing for upcoming tests. This 2.5-hour study session usually involves an hour of studying and an hour of being distracted, watching the NBA games on that night.

I usually wrap up the study session around 8:30-9:30. This is when my free time starts. This is the time I use to relax my mind and body. Some things I do during this time are playing 2k, listening to music, or checking my social media apps. Something I've improved on over the past years is checking my email at night to see anything I might have missed during the day. I also set up reminders on my phone during this time.

My sleep schedule is all over the place. Sometimes it might be 11:30 or it might be at 2:00 a.m. This is something I am working on, but there are many distractions that often keep me up at night. Late-night snacks, phone calls from back home, and the game keep me up later than I should. Especially when I'm on NBA2K and the guys hit me with "play one more until we win," and we lose the next three games in a row. Once I feel it's time to hit the sheets, I go through the daily face and teeth routine consisting of cleaning and moisturizing. The last thing to do is to get on that cheap college mattress and shut my eyes, repeating the same process tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, and the day after that.

Anticipated Events for the Upcoming NBA Season

The NBA's opening night is an eagerly anticipated event for basketball fans and enthusiasts worldwide. It marks the commencement of an intense eight-month, 82-game regular season featuring 30 teams, each showcasing some of the world's most exceptional athletes. Opening night represents the culmination of months of preparation as teams embark on their journey towards the NBA championship.

Whether you are a die-hard fan or a casual observer, NBA opening night never disappoints, promising unforgettable basketball moments. From the 38-year-old veteran LeBron James to the up-and-coming rookie Victor Wembanyama, this season offers plenty of excitement.

LeBron James in His 21st Season - LeBron James, often referred to as "The King," has graced the NBA since 2003. Now in his remarkable 21st NBA season, he stands as one of the greatest players ever to play the game and the league's oldest active player. In the previous season, LeBron achieved a historic milestone by surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA's all-time leading scorer. Beyond his scoring prowess, he consistently delivers impressive statistics in scoring, assists, and rebounds. In the first game of his 21st season, he led his team with 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists.

Wembanyama's Opening Night - Victor Wembanyama, a highly anticipated prospect from France, has drawn comparisons to LeBron James. Despite his towering 7-foot-4 frame, he moves on the court with the agility of a guard. In his season opener, Wembanyama lived up to the hype, contributing significantly to his team's success. He went 6-for-9 from the field, scoring 15 points and providing two assists. Coincidentally, this stat line mirrors Tim Duncan's performance in his 1997 season opener, igniting speculations about Wembanyama's potential greatness.

Super Teams and Big Threes - The concept of super teams gained popularity with the Boston Celtics' "Big Three" featuring Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. Since then, super teams have become a recurring theme in the NBA, exemplified by the likes of the 2016-2018 Warriors and the 2010 Heat. This season, several teams stand out as potential super teams, including the Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns, and Denver Nuggets.

NBA's New Flopping Rule - In response to concerns about players exaggerating contact, the NBA has implemented a new rule for the current season. Players who are found to be flopping, attempting to deceive referees into calling fouls on opponents, will now receive non-unsportsmanlike technical fouls. This results in a free throw opportunity for the opposing team. In a recent Knicks vs. Celtics matchup, Jalen Brunson's technical foul for "flopping" created a compelling scenario, sparking reactions from players and providing insight into the reasoning behind this rule change.

NBA opening night is a celebration of basketball excellence, featuring seasoned legends like LeBron James and promising newcomers like Victor Wembanyama. The evolution of super teams and the introduction of the flopping rule contribute to the ever-evolving nature of the sport, promising an exciting and eventful season for fans and enthusiasts. This season is shaping up to be one of the most captivating in recent memory.

Four Slept on College Essentials by a College Student

Heading off to college is a very exciting but anxious time for many students. There are many things to think about like how to find your classes on the first day, what clubs to join, or how to talk to people you have never seen before. I am an out of state student from Hawaii, attending a small school in the middle of nowhere, known as Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Heading off to college was pretty easy for me, because I enjoy change and adventure. 

Similar to most college students, I faced my fair share of challenges, with the primary one revolving around what to pack and take with me to college. I sought advice from my parents, older siblings, and even consulted Google for guidance on this matter. The list of suggestions I received seemed never-ending. However, now that I'm a senior in college, I've gained the confidence that I have a solid grasp on what items are essential to pack and bring with me each school year. In the midst of the numerous items to bring, I've condensed my checklist to prioritize those crucial essentials that tend to be disregarded.

Allow me to introduce my Top Four College Necessities:

1. Socks: While socks might seem like an obvious choice, I've come to appreciate their importance over time. After cycling through countless pairs of socks, I've realized that receiving socks as gifts, especially during Christmas, is a brilliant idea. I've had my fair share of lost socks due to my own carelessness, the mysterious laundry monster, and friends mistakenly taking them for their own. Considering that I typically go through nearly two pairs of socks each day, that adds up to 14 pairs a week. Take this info as you want but I recommend having at least 15-20 pairs of socks in your drawers at all times.

2. Headphones: These versatile accessories serve multiple purposes in your daily college routine. In lectures, they come in handy when you need to listen to audio materials. Additionally, in a noisy dorm room, headphones can provide a peaceful environment for chatting with family and friends back home. And when it gets late you can use them to play soothing white noise or music if you're having difficulty falling asleep. AirPods or Beats are just as good as the $10 Skullcandy's from Ross.

3. Recovery Tools: In college, maintaining both physical and mental health is extremely important. As a college athlete, I often woke up feeling sore and fatigued after strenuous workouts. However, it's not just athletes who experience this; anyone, whether they're an athlete or not, can relate when sitting through lengthy lectures in uncomfortable chairs takes a toll on their body. To tackle these challenges, I found solace in three essential items: a simple foam roller and a TheraGun for relieving muscle soreness and knots, and a comfortable mattress topper that significantly improved the quality of my sleep. While these items may require a reasonable investment, their long-term benefits make them worthwhile. If cost is a concern, you can also explore more budget-friendly alternatives available online or in select stores.

4. Vaseline/Chapstick: Skin care often gets overlooked in college, but I'm a firm believer in the saying "Feel good, play good." To ensure I always feel my best, I make it a habit to keep my lips well-moisturized with either Vaseline or Chapstick. Vaseline, in particular, serves a dual purpose as it can also be applied to prevent skin from cracking during dry seasons. What's even better is that Vaseline is a cost-effective solution, readily available at most stores. As for Chapstick, I always keep a Burt's Bees stick in my pocket for every class, event, or workout session. Its convenience and effectiveness have proven invaluable time and time again.

In summary, the transition to college can evoke a mix of excitement and apprehension, particularly for those who are bracing for significant changes such as relocating away from home. Strategic packing becomes imperative, making it worthwhile to consider including socks on your Christmas wishlist, ensuring you have headphones for your music preferences like Drake, equipping yourself with the essentials of an athletic trainer, and maintaining well-moisturized lips. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, keep these essentials in mind to facilitate a smoother and more confident transition into college life.

Album Review: "Nostalgia" by Rod Wave

Hip-hop and rap have always played a significant role in the music industry. Some of the most notable hip-hop artists in the past include Tupac Shakur, Ice Cube, and Busta Rhymes. These legendary figures have had a profound impact on both music and culture. Today, we have current artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Wayne, all of whom have solidified their places as all-time greats in the music industry. One up-and-coming artist poised to join their ranks is Rodarius Marcell Green, known as Rod Wave. The Florida native recently released his highly anticipated fifth studio album, titled "Nostalgia," on September 15, 2023. 

 Rod Wave has consistently blended hip-hop, R&B, and soul to create a unique sound that is distinctly his own. Renowned for his storytelling, soulful vocals, and catchy hooks, Rod Wave continues to showcase his talent and why he remains at the forefront of the music industry with his latest album, "Nostalgia." In this album, he shares his personal journey, detailing the ups and downs, heartbreak, and disappointments he has experienced. From the very beginning of the album, listeners are immersed in a rich sonic landscape that sets the stage for the emotional rollercoaster that follows. The album's production reflects Rod Wave's growth as an artist, featuring beats that range from soulful to energetic and upbeat.

Rod Wave performing at concert taken by Prince Williams

Here are some of my favorite and notable songs from the album "Nostalgia": 

 1) "Call Your Friends" - This single was released about a month before the official album, serving as a teaser. In this track, Rod reflects on the struggles he faced in his relationships with friends and family while growing up. He emphasizes the importance of checking in on those close to you, even if there have been past conflicts. I distinctly remember when I first heard a leak of this song on Rod Wave's Instagram Live, and it did not disappoint when it was officially released. 

2) "Great Gatsby" - The title of this song immediately catches the eye, evoking memories of the classic book and movie "The Great Gatsby." In the song, Rod Wave explores a complex romantic relationship, drawing parallels to the intricate relationships in the story. The standout line in the song is when Rod sings, "I threw the party of the century, and people came over, no one left sober, and it was all for you." This vivid imagery beautifully aligns with a scene from the movie where Gatsby throws extravagant parties in pursuit of his love, Daisy. 

3) "Turks and Caicos" - Initially, I wasn't too keen on this song, but it grew on me after repeated listens. It's one of only two tracks on the album that features a guest artist, and it doesn't disappoint. Renowned trap/rap artist 21 Savage lends his talents to this song. Known for his exceptional feature work, 21 Savage complements Rod Wave's lyrics with his own creative flow. The collaboration between these two distinct artists surprisingly works well, and I eagerly anticipate their future collaborations. 

 In "Nostalgia," Rod Wave continues to solidify his position in the world of hip-hop as a master storyteller and an artist unafraid to express his emotions. The album reflects his growth both as a musician and as an individual. It takes listeners on an emotional journey, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. 

 If you haven't already, I highly recommend giving "Nostalgia" a listen. It's personally one of my favorites from the latter half of 2023. This album will take you on an emotional ride through Rod Wave's life, providing a deeper understanding of the man behind the music and the universal struggles we all face.

Summer Job

This summer, I worked at a camp in Pennsylvania. Camp IHC is situated in the middle of a forest in the city of Equinunk, about 4 hours away from New York City. At camp, there are very few distractions, and communication with the outside world is limited. I worked with kids of all ages, ranging from 8 to 16 years old. This past summer has been very challenging, entertaining, and rewarding. From creating my basketball game to getting 5 hours of sleep, I have experienced it all.  

My days started out earlier than most, waking up around 6:00 a.m. daily to get a workout in at the gym. After returning, already tired and sore, I had to ensure the kids in my bunk were awake and going through their morning routines of showering, brushing their teeth, and preparing for their day. This was one of the most challenging parts of my job because 13- and 14-year-olds aren't inclined to listen at 8:00 a.m. 

Another challenge I faced was engaging the younger kids in a one-hour group session, especially when they disliked playing basketball. It was even more difficult when we were on a hot outdoor court in the middle of the day. To address this, I created games that didn't necessarily involve "playing" the sport but focused on having fun. One game I came up with was tag on the basketball court, but everyone had to be dribbling while they were running from the person who was "it." A lot of screaming and yelling could be heard from the basketball court during this time. The kids seemed to love it, and it became a favorite group activity. When I had to coach the same group again, the first thing they would ask me was, "Coach LoLo, can we play the basketball tag game?" It was quite different being called a coach. Usually, I'm the one referring to someone as a coach, but being on the other side of things made me realize how much I enjoyed coaching. 

Right after coaching a group basketball lesson with Coach Ellie and Tyra, captured by Camp IHC photographer 

Being a large camp, IHC offered numerous activities to take part in during my free time. I never thought I would go water tubing, as I'm not a fan of the water, but I managed to do it comfortably at camp. Another activity I tried was rock climbing. I never would have considered rock climbing because I wouldn't put myself in that situation, or it was too costly. On days off, we could go out and enjoy the local nightlife, enabling me to connect even more with the other staff members. Over half of the staff at Camp IHC were international, so I was able to connect with people from all over the world, including Scotland, the UK, Brazil, and Australia. 

When I took this job, I assumed I'd only be a basketball coach, but my role expanded to be much more than that. I served as a role model for the kids. I established close connections with them by doing simple things like playing songs they hadn't heard before or engaging them in a game of H.O.R.S.E during a free period. Now they occasionally reach out, asking me to share my playlist or mentioning that they saw my high school basketball highlights on YouTube. This job is advertised on Camp IHC's website as "the best summer job." I can definitely concur with that, and I hope to return as a second-year staff member in 2024.