Who is the Girl in the Purple Polo?

Who is the Girl in the Purple Polo?  The school year is almost over, and for me, my college career is officially drawing to a close. But before I go, I have a question to answer. Before the reveal, I want to thank you for being a part of my most memorable experience at LSU-- Residential Life and this blog. And, for the last time, let me relive some of my experiences as a student.

During my time at LSU, I’ve learned what it means to bleed purple and gold. I recall the first exciting moments viewing the campus, and I’ll forever savor the feeling of finishing my final class. I’ve witnessed three national championships. I’ve screamed my heart out in tiger stadium. I’ve held my breath as Chad Jones pitched in the bottom of an inning. I even cried when at the first loss I witnessed in tiger stadium.

The win bar in the locker room at Tiger Stadium taken during a tour.

I’ve witnessed jubilation and tragedy on this campus.  I’ve seen the nervous, excited anticipation of thousands of prospective students. I too, have felt that same joy and anticipation. I remember my first moment walking into my res hall room, and I remember my last moment hugging my RA and handing my key back in.

The first look at my freshman room in Acadian-- A moment I'll always remember.

My freshman room part way through the semester. Can you tell I love pink?

I’ve felt the winds and utter destruction of hurricane  Gustav, and I saw the unity of an incredible community coming together to help one another. I’ve mourned the loss of my fellow students. I’ve laughed till I couldn’t breathe rolling down the Indian Mounds. I lost some friends, but gained 92,463 new ones. I’ve watched  the demolition of old buildings, and I’ve been the first to walk through the door of new ones.

Students venture out the morning after Gustav. LSU's campus has its own emergency power supply, and served as a hub for the Baton Rouge community. The 459 Commons offered meals, and residents and staff volunteered countless hours.

 I’ve learned to like crawfish, and I have fallen in love with Louisiana’s amazing culture. I’ve danced in the pouring rain, and ventured across Highland River. I’ve watched as my peers performed their talents in concerts, debates, and performances, and I’ve had the unfailing support of my fellow classmates in my endeavors.  I've embraced the chimes of the clock tower, and memorized the words to our alma mater. I’ve failed tests, and crammed papers. I’ve listened to top-notch researchers, and I’ve  presented my own ideas to knowledgeable scholars. I’ve learned, I’ve lived, I’ve grown, I’ve failed, I’ve succeeded, and ultimiately I became the capable, ever-learning graduate I am today.  

A beautiful sunset during my freshman spring invitational-- still one of my favorite views on campus.

So who am I? My name is Jennifer, and I am a soon to be LSU alumna with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing. I am forever in love with LSU football and everything purple and gold. I am from Denver, Colorado, but will always see Baton Rouge as my second home.

But who am I really? It’s not so important. I’m just one of the thousands of black caps and gowns that will be wandering around campus next Friday.  I’m still slightly nervous to enter the real world, but I know  that LSU has prepared me well. I know that  I will forever bleed purple and gold, and that my identity at LSU does not end here. I am one alumna and every alumni.

So what happens next? While I may be graduating, a whole new class of LSU students will enter this fall and embark on their own adventure. I've left my blog in capable hands of the next mystery purple polo, who is sure to bring even more exciting updates, posts and advice.

From here, I want to give one final thank you to LSU, Residential Life, and to every person who has contributed to the best four years of my life.

xoxo-- Girl in the Black Cap and Gown (with a purple polo underneath)

Best Hang-out Spots-- LSU Residence Halls

Can you believe the semester is almost over? I can't! During this time of year, I'm always looking for a change of scenery and a fun place to hang out or study. The residence halls are packed with great hang out spots, and here's a list of my favorites.

Blake's Floor Common Room: Each floor of Blake Hall has a mini lobby with tables, chairs, couches, and a study room. There's plenty of room to hang out with friends, work on group projects, or do some serious studying.

East Campus Apartments Activity Center: The activity center is the hub for most programs in the apartments.. Kick back and play a game of pool while watching a game on the big screen, or attend one of the many programs held here every semester.

Broussard Aquarium: This awesome hangout in the IT Residential College is filled with plenty of entertainment. From foosball to air hockey-- they have it. It also sits adjacent to a fountain courtyard and has enough seating to hold all of your friends (or study group!)

Miller Sun Deck: Looking for some fun in the sun? Look no further. The Miller Sundeck features awesome outdoor views of the lake. It's the perfect place to catch a few rays with great scenery.

Residential College West's TV Room: With a huge flat screen TV, plenty of couches and tables, the TV room in the RCC are a college student's dream. Whether you're catching up on the latest MTV episode, watching sports, or playing in an Xbox rock band tournament, this is definitely a great hang out spot.

Engineering Residential College Kitchen: While there aren't too many college chefs, those who love cooking will find this place to be their dream kitchen. RCC's newly renovated kitchen features two full cooking stations with two stoves, two ovens, a microwave, and ample counter space.

Your Crib: What better hang out than your own room? It's decorated just the way you like, and filled with your favorite things. So, go ahead--  pop some popcorn, plop on your bed, and invite some friends over (or enjoy some "me" time.) You've only got two weeks left in your space till summer, so enjoy!

While finals (and graduation for some!) are practically here, remember to relax and allow yourself some study breaks and fun time! Check out my study tips for surviving midterms for more tips! If you have some time in the next week or two, find your favorite spots and enjoy them!

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

Inside Scoop: LSU Res Life Cribs

It's that time again! The film crew at Res Life worked all semester finding the next batch of coolest rooms on campus. This semester they are all new rooms, new looks, and new faces. Here's a behind the scenes look at the making of LSU Res Life Cribs 2011!

Take a peak into life in the Engineering Residential College.

Their room sported an awesome view of Tiger Stadium-- how cool is that?

These guys made the coolest entrance yet on our cribs-- be sure to look for their video in the coming weeks!

We were able to get an inside look at the rooms and facilities in the newly renovated West Laville Honors House.

Our hosts wait to greet the camera for their big intro.

Filming an episode can be fun, scary, and slightly time consuming (sometimes it takes 5 or 6 tries to get everything right!)



Thumbs up on a job well done!



Kaila led our very first RA (Resident Assistant) Cribs and gave the inside scoop on life as an RA veteran.

RA's usually receive a two person room for themselves-- allowing for lots of creativity in decorating!

This semester we were also able to get a look into the on-campus apartments!

What a cute room! ECA (East Campus Apartments) have individual rooms with shared common spaces.

It was obvious our ECA girls were great friends-- hear their story in their Cribs episode!

This is just a small preview into our next batch of episodes. Need something to hold you over until they are released? Check out our Youtube Channel for previous episodes and videos! I'll let you know when the new cribs are up!

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

LSU Spring Break Tips

Campus is buzzing about the arrival of Spring Break, and students are starting to pack their bags and prepare for a week of rest and relaxation. Here are 8 tips for the best Spring Break yet.

1. Set Your Expectations: What are you hoping for? Relaxation? Earn some extra cash? Fun in the Sun? Defining your goals can help direct the rest of your decisions.

2. Create a Budget-- and Stick to It: Avoid getting caught up in the moment, and  create a realistic financial game plan  based off your expectations, destination, and most importantly, your bank account status.  A week's worth of fun is not worth long term credit card debt and financial struggles.

3. Pack Appropriately: Research the expected weather conditions, entertainment plans (nice restaurant vs. beach.), and activities. Regardless of location, be sure to pack a few "just in case" items like rain jackets, swimsuits, or dressy clothes-- you never know what might pop up. Don't forget your chargers and a camera!!!

4. Spring Break Your Res Hall Room: Unplug all major electronics, set the thermostat, and throw out perishable food. If you're really ambitious, tidy up so you can come back to a nice clean room.

5. Double Check and Have A Backup Plan: Don't let your trip be ruined by one mishap. Verify your travel reservations before you leave, and make sure you have a back up plan and an emergency contact--(i.e. car breaks down, bad weather, health emergency, etc.)

6. Don't Forget You're Still in School: At some point in the trip, it'll be easy to forget that it's spring break and not summer break. Make sure you remember to do any projects, studying or assignments due the following week, and allow time to recuperate to get back in the academic mindset. (When you come back, it's only 2 weeks till finals!)

7. Be Safe: This is the most important one. Use your common sense, and take extra precautions if you are in an unfamiliar place. Always use the buddy system, and tell someone where you're going, and when you'll be back.

8.  Have Fun: You only get four (err...or five) college spring breaks, so make sure to make the most of them. Whether you are working, visiting your family, vacationing, or just relaxing...enjoy! Take your well-deserved break and make sure you make a few great memories along the way.

I'm going to be far away from computers for the break, so I'll post my next blog the when classes resume! Have a great spring break!!

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

Which Residential College are You?

Spending time in so many of the residence halls, I've noticed each building seems to have a distinct personality.  Maybe I'm on a kick to relive my time spent with teen magazines, but I've developed a quiz to help you decide which Residential College you are.  

1. Your ideal night in involves...?

    a. Enjoying a night with your group watching movies and snacking on junk food

    b. A good philosophical debate with your friends about Socrates and Plato's beliefs

    c. A night of gaming with your buddies and testing out the latest technology

    d. Designing a new product that is sure to change the world

2. If you were stranded on an island,and could choose one of the below items, which would it be?

    a. Cell Phone (you can't call for help though)-- you've gotta keep in touch with your friends

    b. Your fully loaded e-reader, that is solar operated, of course

    c. Your gaming computer, completely loaded with every program known to man

    d. Tools-- the Swiss family tree house is nothing compared to your engineering skills

3. When choosing a place to eat with a group, you...

     a. Choose a place with ample seating and something for everyone

     b. Go somewhere of historical or academic significance

     c. Find the most tech-friendly restaurant-- free WiFi, trivia remotes, and ample televisions

    d. Develop an algorithm to compare price, location, and menu options

4. You have $15.00. What are you going to buy?

    a. 3 large pizzas and invite everyone over for a night of board game fun

    b. Tickets to that new exhibit at the museum 

    c. A new memory stick to store this week's documents

    d. The newest book on how to nab a career in your chosen field

5. It's time to pick an elective for next semester. When it comes to scheduling, you...

    a. Look for a truly unique class to take with your friends; you love trying new things

    b. Pick a challenging professor whose notorious for amazing lectures

    c. Look for a technologically-advanced class held in a smart classroom 

    d. Find a hands on class relevant to your major that will allow you to build your resume

6. An ideal program in the lobby of your residence hall is....

    a. An American Idol type talent show or an ice cream social-- anything that let's you meet others

    b. A professor lectureship series on Facebook, or a catered dinner and free admission to a play

    c. A speed texting competition or a Rock Band Warrior Night

    d. A successful guest speaker from your field of interest

RESULTS: Tally up your responses and determine which letter you chose most often. Remember, this quiz is meant for entertainment purposes, and is in no way meant to be indicative of who you are or where you must live. Enjoy!

Mostly A's: You are social! Herget Hall Residential College: You are a social butterfly and love hanging out. You like trying a little bit of everything and love meeting new people. You are looking to get as much as possible out of college and want to try and do and see everything possible.



Herget Hall: Home of our Freshman Residential College, a first-year experience open to residents of all majors!



Mostly B's: You are studious! West Laville Honors House: Whether it's debating with friends, volunteering, or working on a project, you are constantly looking to improve yourself, and know learning is about so much more than just a test. You never settle for a path just because it's easier and want to surround yourself with others just as focused as you.


West Laville Hall: Home to the Honors House--open to Honors College students of all years and majors.

 Mostly C's: You are tech-savvy! Broussard IT Residential College: You are always the first of your friends to try new technology (You were raving about Apple when everyone else thought it was just a fruit.) You love the technological movement the world is experiencing, and can't wait for the next invention. From computers to cell phones, to 3-D technology-- you love it all!


Broussard Hall-- home of the IT Residential College. It's open to freshmen of any major, the only requirement is to bring a laptop.

 Mostly D's: You are Driven!  Residential College One: You are passionate about your future and love your field. You realize your future career can truly be a position where you love what you do. You're looking to gain as much experience as possible, and can't wait to  network and make connections with others interested in your field. Res Life currently has discipline-based residential colleges for Business, Engineering, Science, Agriculture, and Mass Communication.


RCC West-- Home to the Business Residential College and open to Business Freshman.



Hope you  had fun, but I'm not so sure Teen magazine writing is in my future-- I think I'll stick to blogging :-D. As always, feel free to email me questions, comments, or ideas at girlinthepurplepolo@gmail.com.

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

You Know You Geaux To LSU When…..

With so many future students wandering campus for Spring Invitational, I started thinking about all the ways my fellow seniors and I have changed since freshman orientation. I realize we now share many commonalities-- almost as if there are distinguishing characteristics that make us LSU students....So, here we geaux......

You Kneaux You Geaux To LSU When.....

• Your closet consists of mainly LSU shirts….and you justify keeping them—You worked hard to get that one from the t-shirt toss!
• You know the Pentagon is not just a government building in D.C.
• You think eaux is the proper way to spell anything with an "oh" sound.
• You believe not only that purple and gold geaux together, but that it should be worn as often as possible.
• A parking spot right in front of your building absolutely makes your day.
• You laugh at students from other schools who think tailgating is actually meant to be out of a tail gate on a truck.
• Everyone becomes your best friend at the end of the semester when you have leftover meals to The 459 Commons and The 5 dining halls.
• You long ago learned the benefits of memorizing your 89- number, and secretly chuckle at those who still have to look at their Tiger Card.
• You can recite the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd down cheers anytime queued….including in your sleep.
• You associate lunchtime with the Alma Mater thanks to the clock tower at noon.
• You actually know the lyrics to the Alma Mater……or not.
• Free food is never to be underestimated.
• It seems everyone who plays the piano in Herget Residential College lobby knows the same three songs.
• You realize that hall bathrooms really aren't that bad….actually they can be kind of convenient.
• Mom's don't come to college, but somehow the res hall bathrooms are always clean (Hall bathrooms are cleaned twice a day in the res halls, and suite bathrooms are cleaned once a week!)
• You've realized a 12' by 15' room can actually hold some of the best memories of your life.
• Despite 12+ years of school "We Delivery" is now an acceptable noun and is a geaux-to for all take out needs.
• You wouldn't trade your loftable bed for anything—it's like the bunk bed you always wanted, but better.
• Tigercash on vending machines basically gets you through the night.
• You understand the meaning of Club Middleton and know it's the coolest place to be during midterms and finals.
• Flashmob raves seem to be a perfectly normal once-a-semester occurrence in the library.
• You know that despite mother nature, it's guaranteed to snow at least once a year on the Parade Ground thanks to RHA.
• Distance becomes measured in how long it takes to walk instead of in terms of miles.
• You no longer need to use the Memorial Tower and Tiger Stadium to find your way, but if anyone needs directions they are your go-to land marks.
• You hate when you go home and you actually have to plug your computer in to the Internet…..within two weeks you've convinced your parents to get wireless.
• Les Miles eating grass seems perfectly normal…..whatever works, right?
• You find tears in your eyes when saying goodbye to your floor custodian-- you'll miss talking to them every morning. Trust me.
• Your parents find that you've picked up your old habit of rocking in chairs thanks to the rocking desk chairs in the res halls.
• You feel you could host your own show on TLC with your creative and budget friendly decorating skills.
• Speaking of TV shows, you know MTV isn't the only cool Cribs episodes around!
• Patrick Taylor Hall and CEBA are used interchangeably….and probably always will be.
• You know you will always and forever bleed purple and gold….and find yourself unsure what this red substance is that biologists talk about.

Have ideas of your own? Comment below and share your LSU defining characteristic!

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

Spring on LSU's Campus Residential Life

Spring is officially here, and there's no better time to enjoy LSU's beautiful campus. Turn off your electronics and get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. There is plenty to do without using energy around the Res Halls.

1. Bike Around the Campus Lakes: The warm weather makes for a perfect bike ride. This ride will take you around the historic houses, city park, and a beautiful lake.

2. Fly a Kite on the Parade Ground: Cuz' you are never too old to fly a kite. Pick up a couple kites at the dollar store, and enjoy an afternoon with friends and some good old fashion fun.

3. Head out for a Picnic on the Levee: Pack up a sandwich and some refillable water bottles (we are being green here,) and a blanket and watch the world go by.

4. Attend an outdoor concert: Whether it's Groovin' on the Grounds (This weekend, March 26, 2011 with One Republic) or C4 in the Pentagon Courtyard, listening to some outdoor music is a great way to unwind. 

5. Join a Pickup Game: The Parade Ground is packed this time of year with students playing ultimate Frisbee, soccer, football, etc-- gather some friends and join in!

6. Spring Cleaning: Take the time to do a deep cleaning of your room. Sweep the floors, clean the windows, wash your sheets, and recycle/give away all the junk that has accumulated over the winter. You'll feel so much better walking into a nice clean room (plus it'll make move-out easier!)

7. Recyclable crafts:  Use your creative energy for something useful. You don't even have to spend money-- there are tons of crafts out there using recycled material, like this forever scarf, or make your own reusable bags.

8 Volunteer: Be it through Volunteer LSU, Habitat for Humanity, your sorority or organization, or just on your own. Volunteering is a great way to kick the stress of school and make a positive difference

9. Capture the Moment: Campus is bursting with beautiful blooming flowers, green trees, and blue skies. If you have a camera (digital, disposable, SLR...anything!) try your artistic talents at photography-- if nothing else, it'll be a great  memento of your time at LSU.

10. Develop a Green Thumb: Get some dirt, seeds, and paint a pot (or use old plastic jugs and paint them.) Place your plant in the window (don't forget to water it) and watch it grow!

11. Geaux to a Baseball Game: Take me out to an LSU game, take me out to the fans, buy me some crawfish and etouffee, I don't care if I never graduate, Let's root root root for the tigers, they (almost) always win this game, for it's one, three, four years, and you're out of the (college) world! (Okay, maybe I shouldn't rush into a songwriting career!)

Have a wonderful weekend, and enjoy the outdoors!

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo