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Articles by Avianna Raupach
Saalt's Menstrual Cup Is The Safe And Eco-Friendly Menstrual Product Alternative You Need In Your Life
- You may be feeling hesitant to try these out because they seemed way too big to not be uncomfortable, but when you get the hang of inserting it properly, you can forget that it is even there; it is actually only about as big as a tampon when it has absorbed the max amount of blood that it can. - Not only does using a menstrual cup create less waste, many companies that produce them make an effort have an impactful effect on the environment and communities in various ways.
Being Skinny Does Not Solve Your Problems
At least in the United States, the “ideal” female body is skinny, toned and hourglass shaped. For some of us, this is easier to obtain than for others. I've come across those who say that I was blessed with my slender frame, fast metabolism and long legs. Others publicly envy my body. And still others outright wish that I would get fat, as if that would be the ultimate downfall of the skinny ideal. It's certainly nice to think that having a rockin’ body would solve all your problems.
I've Been Going To Taylor Swift Concerts For 8 years And It's My Greatest Love Story
In 2007 I saw the music video for Teardrops on My Guitar while I was getting ready for third grade and Taylor Swift instantly became my favorite singer. In 2010 I saw Taylor Swift live for the first time for her Fearless Tour at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It was my first concert and I could not have been more excited. That just so happened to be her first ever solo stadium show (and it was sold out!) and it is a day that she talks about constantly even now.
The Stages of Finals As Told By 'Elf'
1. When the professor says the information is cumulative 2. When you hear there’s a study guide 3. When you have to get a good grade on the exam to pass 4. When you don’t understand the material 5. Wishing you were as prepared for your exams as Buddy was for that snowball fight 6. When you realize how much you’re going to have to study 7. When someone asks how you’re doing and you’re stressed about finals but you say “good” 8. When you have study guides up to your eyeballs and you just want to quit 9.
Taking On Controversial Convocation
Controversial Convocation There were three Convocations recently that caused quite a stir, and received mixed responses from students. Surprise, frustration, and excitement are just a few emotions students felt after hearing who would be speaking to them at convocation. I decided to interview a few people in my hall and hear just what they had to say. Conservative Lily Armstrong had mixed feelings about Tomi Lahren coming to Convo.
Kids Don't need Feminism, They Need Facts
It's okay Disney, a man can save me any day. Usually, I wouldn't choose Urban dictionary for a definition, but they have feminism spot on; "Why just b**** to your friends when you can pretend to be oppressed and annoy everyone?" They're not wrong. They act like victims but victimize men with their disrespect and the very inequality they "fight" for. I was at a movie recently and as I was sitting in the dark theatre watching the commercials I noticed a reoccurring theme- feminism.
You Can Jump Through The Window
When God closes a door, He opens a window… I know the phrase is supposed to be encouraging, and it is certainly true, but let’s be real, walking through a door is a whole lot easier than crawling through or jumping out a window. But maybe that’s the point. Maybe the door would be too easy. Whatever would have been there on the other side, wouldn’t have challenged you, or been right for you. Having to go through the window though, that shows what you’re made of.
You Can Call Me Beautiful
It’s ok, I won’t get mad. Because it was recently women’s history month, there have been some posts listing things to call women instead of beautiful. Instead of pretty, call her smart, for example. Instead of complimenting her appearance, say how intelligent she is, or compliment her on some other quality, as long as it’s not her appearance. I get the point, but who said you have to call a female just one thing?
6 Tips For Incoming College Freshmen
Right now, you’re probably on top of the world, excited to graduate and enjoy a summer of fun. You may feel stressed with the work, exams, and trying to figure out which college you’re going to. The excitement about going to college is building up inside you. You long for freedom and adulthood. You are so close, so here’s some advice, freshmen to freshmen. 1.
More Than Free Laundry And A Home Cooked Meal
When college came in sight, I didn’t feel nervous, just excited and ready to go. I was ready to get out of the house, be independent, and start my journey that would enable me to get a job doing what I love. The first few days felt like camp, no classes yet, just exploring and getting adjusted. Then it hit. The first week of classes I was a wreck. The homesickness hit like a ton of bricks. I wanted to go home, see my family, and sleep in my own bed.
If Everything Is Going Wrong, You May Be Doing Something Right
There will be plenty of times in your life that things go wrong, you have a bad day, and you’re just discouraged. But what about the times when it doesn’t seem to let up? When it keeps going, every day, consistent discouragement and difficulty. Maybe there is more going on than what meets the eye. Maybe it is not just a series of difficulties. Maybe, just maybe, you are in a war zone. When the hard times don’t seem to stop, take a step back.
Lying Pastor Claims Saying Jesus Is The Only Way To Heaven Is "Insanity"
There is only one way to Heaven, but multiple paths to Hell. This pastor has that a little confused. Michael A. Walron, pastor of a church with over 10,000 members recently said, "There was a time when you would see people in the pulpit say, 'well if you don't believe in Jesus you going to Hell. That's insanity in many ways because that is not what Jesus even believes. And so the key is you believe in God. And whatever your path is to God I celebrate that.
Poetry On Odyssey: Spring (Break) Fever
Spring break is almost here, a time for love, adventure, and cheer. Relax by the pool, or hang with friends that are dear. It’s hard to envision, the fun in the sun with so much homework yet to be done. Assignments and papers are calling our name, we want this wild homework to be tamed. The projects are hard, the nights are long, the homework being done is like a sad song. However, a light can be seen. Peace and relaxation now enter the scene.
Stepping Out On Faith
A new roommate, Ice Skating, and a whole lot of faith. On Valentine’s day, my floor went ice skating. Leading up to the event I was slightly nervous due to the fact I haven’t been ice skating in years. The promise that I would not be the only one shaky on ice calmed me. My new roommate was encouraging and we had many laughs leading up to the event. When we got to the rink and had our skates laced up, we stepped onto the ice. She picked it up pretty quickly and was doing great.
9 Tips For Nailing A Tropical Vacation
Vacation is finally here! Below are some tips for nailing your tropical break. 1. Pack sunscreen Tanning is great, but the burn that comes as a result of not wearing sunscreen is simply not worth it. 2. Plan Ahead If you are going somewhere you have never been to, look up thing to do, places to eat, and ways to get there to ensure a less stressful trip 3. Overpack Ok, I know everyone says not to, but it’s better to have too much than not have something you need and have to go buy it. 4.
Chivalry Is On The Decline
Chivalry is “the combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight, especially courage, honor, courtesy, justice, and a readiness to help the weak.” (Google) Sounds pretty great to me. It is now 2018 and feminism is running rampant. Because of the rise of women campaigning to be equal to men, I feel that the need for chivalry may become extinct. And if we are being honest, why wouldn’t it?
12 Days Of A Merry College Christmas
Christmas takes on a whole new meaning in college. Whether it's parties, or studying, there's not exactly 12 drummers drumming. So here's the 12 days of college. By a student, for students. 12. Cups of Caffeine 11. Strings of Lights 10. Late Nights 9. Final Papers 8. Meltdowns 7. Returned Textbooks 6. Secret Santa Gifts 5. Stressful Exams 4. Christmas Parties 3. Loads of Laundry 2. Cleanliness Checks 1. Ride Home Relax, enjoy time with friends and family and never forget the true meaning of Christmas.
Why You Should Socialize This Second Semester
College can be one of the most terrifying things you will face. Moving away from home, living with strangers, getting up on time for classes, making friends, the list goes on. One of the most important things to do is make friends. It can be hard. When starting something new, the idea of making friends, being social and getting ourselves out there sounds terrifying.It’s easier to stay under our cute new comforter and binge watch Netflix sheltered away from the world.
Imperfect People Mean Imperfect Relationships
The perfect relationship doesn't exist, but the perfect person for you might. If the thought of the relationship, not existing stresses you out, keep reading. The perfect guy doesn’t exist, the perfect girl doesn't either, but the perfect person for you, may. It can be easy to make a list of the things you want in a relationship and check them off when you find a someone you like. However, unless they're Superman, you won’t be able to check off everything on your list.
Here's To 2018
Here’s to the New Year Here’s to strengthening friendships, making new ones, letting go of the old. Here’s to finding that special someone for your hand to hold. Here’s to new life, and saluting the ones lost. The battles fought, and the lives war will cost. Here’s to “how time flies” and stories to remember it by. Here’s to beautiful sunsets that will paint the sky. Here’s to date nights, Friendsgiving, and everything in between. Here’s to the love that was shared between you and me.
Poetry On Odyssey: Truth
The basis for life, honesty, and trust is truth. It can bring joy, or pain, sadness and depression, or excitement and happiness. No matter the circumstance, seek truth, speak truth. Seek truth when dishonesty is popular. When the right thing, is the hard thing to do. When the truth hurts, when it’s hard to find. When the road is hard, long, and seems to go on forever. Seek Truth When you want to give up. When you feel alone, sad, heartbroken. When life throws you a curveball.
The Queen, The Armor And You
Be Esther Wearing the Armor Two of my favorite passages in the Bible are Esther 4:14 and Ephesians 6:10-18. The Queen Esther was an incredible young lady with the opportunity of a lifetime. She was thrust into the role of being queen. At the time, she was probably scared, confused, and wondering why on earth she would be chosen out of all of the girls the king could’ve chosen.
An Age Of Forgotten Innocence
One of my best friends recently had a baby. Her child is beautiful, pure, and innocent. Before he was born, I was asked if he could call me his aunt. I was (and still am) so honored to be an aunt to this amazing little boy. However, upon holding him, my world changed. I will do anything to protect my pure and innocent little nephew from the world. I know, however, that in the blink of an eye, he will be grown and experiencing all sorts of new things- both good and bad.
Poetry On Odyssey: The Best Four Letter Word Is Love
Love is the four letter word, people unashamedly say. Some scarcely, some every day. It can be used to describe many things, but none as special as the joy it brings. Said for the first time, or every day, it is actions behind our words, that pave the way. Love is dying on a cross, and rising again. Love is providing a way out so we don’t face punishment for our sin. Love is beauty and compassion, kindness and grace. As simple as a smile on a thankful face.
Poetry On Odyssey: Running From God
When we run from God, He lets us go. He watches as we run in place because we are running from His face, from His will. He stands there waiting, with arms open wide, waiting for us to round the bend back to His side. Despite where we go, what path we choose to take, God lovingly reminds us that in His love we are safe. He doesn’t drag us back, that wouldn’t be free will, but who begins a marathon intentionally standing still?
How Liberals Once Again Show Us Their Hypocrisy
When you were little, your parents probably told you, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” In other words, if you can’t be kind, keep your mouth shut. Maybe liberals never got that. I’m sure by now you have heard about Hollywood star Roseanne’s tweet that is causing quite a stir. Roseanne made a racist comment that was quite rude and disrespectful. She profusely apologized, yet her show was canceled.
Why Trump Using The Word "We" Is So Important
I recently attended CPAC, the largest gathering of Conservatives. The event was filled with excellent speakers, great opportunities, and held at a beautiful hotel. I was privileged to get pictures with and meet some incredible people. Shawn Hannity and Peggy Grande to name a couple. However, there was one speaker that was extra special. Donald. J. Trump, the President of the United States of America. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I was very excited. President Trump did not disappoint.
Stop The Cycle Of Modern-Day Slavery
If you are like me, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about human trafficking is maybe a third world country, sketchy part of a city, or a movie. However, human trafficking happens everywhere. There are things going on behind the scenes and in areas that we may not even suspect. According to DoSomething.org, “Globally, the average cost of a slave is $90.” That is what a human life has been reduced to for many evil, sick people in the world. $90.
Poetry On Odyssey: A Mother's Day Poem
This mother’s day, I’d like to say Thanks to my mom for the help along the way. For the words of wisdom, I didn’t always want to hear For always whispering that you love me in my ear. Thanks for the kindness and times of fun For making sure from my fears I didn’t run. For the push when I needed it And a shoulder to cry on You have endured much as the years have gone. For the help with math, and the frustration that it brought For all of that you deserve a lot.
Learning To Trust God's Plan
Do you ever have those moments where you honestly have no idea what God is doing in your life? If you answered no you probably aren’t human. It is okay to doubt and to wonder. In our confusion, God shows us His sovereignty. He knows how it will affect us, but He also knows what will happen in the long run as a result of our circumstances. I had something happen recently that I felt certain was from God.
5 Fun Warm Weather Things To Do In Central Virginia
Warm weather is finally here. Below are 5 fun warm weather things to do in warm weather in Central Virginia. 1. Go hiking There are so many fun places to go hiking in Virginia. The beautiful weather and scenery make for a great time. Check out The Peaks of Otter.2. 2. Ride Bikes Riding bikes is a personal favorite of mine. Rent a bike or bring your own and enjoy the breeze and scenery. Plus, biking is great if you have joint problems.
Why You Should See 'The Greatest Showman'
“No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.”-The Greatest Showman The lights dim, voices hush, and the commercials start. Friends and family point out movies that look fun to see, and ones that shouldn’t have even been made. Then it starts. Hugh Jackman’s voice shatters the silence with a beautiful opening. Before you know it you have been swept into the movie. The camera work, acting, music, and storyline carry you away.
Think Before You Throw
Convocation last semester caused many mixed reactions when speakers were announced. At only the first week in the second semester, it hasn’t changed. When the convo speakers are announced, if you don’t know who they are, you probably look them up so you have some basic knowledge of who will be speaking. Sometimes it can be exciting to find that you relate to the speaker, or maybe you did know who they are after all.
A New Semester
A new semester... A new semester, a new time to learn. Bridges to build, and bridges to burn. New professors and classmates, engagements, and save the dates. New rooms to get lost finding, friendships that will be binding. New romance blossoms as connections are made, more student loans, and tuition to be paid. New convo speakers that cause controversy, heated debates between political parties. New online classes, and convo skip passes. New seasons, new breaks, and road trips to take.
Hollywood Genre Wars
God’s Not Dead, and unfortunately neither is the Fifty Shades franchise. Usually commercials are an opportunity to get excited about new movies soon to come out, and eat half of the popcorn before the movie has even begun. I recently went to the movie theatre to see Forever My Girl. By the end of the commercials, I was practically in tears. The song I Can Only Imagine played, as the trailer for the story behind the song showed before my eyes. I can already tell it will be a must see.
When Your Testimony Doesn't Match Your Tattoo
Religion doesn’t make you a Christian, and your tattoo doesn’t represent your testimony. Many times, people get a tattoo to represent something that means something special to them. A cross for salvation, the birthday of their deceased grandparent (I’ve never understood that one), or some other symbol to remember a special moment or person in their life. Here’s the deal, what about people who get tattoos about faith, but act in a way that represents anything but?
8 Reasons You Should Write For Odyssey
Writing for Odyssey is such a great experience. I have learned so much and had such a wonderful time writing and editing. Here are 8 reasons you should write for Odyssey too: 1. Experience Writing for Odyssey gives you the opportunity to have your work edited and reviewed before it is published and you have deadlines. 2. Opportunities You never know who will see an article and want to publish it or share it on their own platform 3.
Candace Owens' Backwards Ideas Are Causing Damage, Not Harry Styles Wearing A Dress
Androgyny is something that has always been part of culture. Since the beginning of time, gender expression has always been varied and expansive. However, as time went on, society forced particular roles onto certain genders. These sorts of gender roles have caused many to rebel against them, including artists and rock stars. Harry Styles seems to be the next one in line to rebel in such a way. On the cover of Vogue's latest issue, Styles is seen wearing a dress.
I'm A Black Minnesotan Experiencing Racism, And 'Minnesota Nice' Is A Real Thing
This past month, I graduated from high school with honors. I reached this milestone during a public health crisis and a time of uncertainty. Despite all obstacles and systemic barriers in my path, I was able to receive a diploma. I did this as a Black student in a state with some of the worst racial disparities in the country. I live in Minnesota, a state that's overwhelmingly progressive, where the people vote blue and "liberal values" are the norm.
America's Reaction To Ahmaud Arbery's Murder Showed Me Why The #BlackLivesMatter Movement Exists
Tragedy is something that is omnipresent in the news. We hear about senseless acts of violence at a disturbingly high rate. Sometimes these tragedies provoke discussions about gun control. Other times, it sparks conversations about societal injustices like transphobia, homophobia, and racism. The latter was the case with the tragic murder of Ahmaud Arbery. Arbery died at 25 years old in Glynn County, Georgia.
Mac Miller Is Releasing A New Album On January 17, Proving That He Will Live On Forever
Wednesday morning, Mac Miller's family took to his Instagram account to announce that his posthumous album, "Circles," will be released on January 17. This was a shock to Mac fans everywhere because "Swimming" was released a month before his death Sept. 7, 2018. "Swimming" was full of so many feels and good vibes so here's hoping that "Circles" can measure up to the genius final release that Mac gave us.
Taylor Swift Called Out Scooter Braun And Scott Borchetta Yet Again Because She's ‘The Man’ They’ll Never Be
Taylor Swift took to social media today to let everyone know what scum bags Borchetta and Braun are — just lately because we all already obviously knew that. Taylor was planning to sing a mashup of her music (new and old) on stage at the American Music Awards as she is being recognized as the artist of the decade. The two men decided to ban Taylor from singing her old music that was produced under a previous label, Big Machine Records.
Gen Z, Your Juuling Habit Isn't A Safer Way To Avoid Cigarettes, You're Still Killing Yourself
Juul is the top-selling e-cigarette brand in the United States. Yes, that little thing you see sticking out of the bags of 20-somethings that looks like a USB? Actually still poison for your lungs, disguised as "better than" the old school cigarettes of our parents' day. While Juul's main marketing ploy is that it's not as bad for you as traditional cigarettes, the FDA finally called them on their crap with a clear statement that no research backs up their claim.
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