Showing posts with label Khadijah McGill. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Khadijah McGill. Show all posts

A Look into Reality TV


The TV scene has been taken over by show after show of a reality we all know was edited. Let’s see how much sense that makes. None. Reality TV has really taken over the networks as it gets almost just as many views as news broadcastings and informational networks. Even networks such as TLC (The Learning Channel) have switched over. The only thing we really learn from it now is how Honey Boo Boo gets her kicks everyday.

The very first reality show aired in 1973. According to the Writer’s Guild of America, “An American Family,” a 12-episode documentary following the Loud family, was the break of something amazing for the TV world. Then came the more known “The Real World,” “Survivor” and “Big Brother.” These shows really went deep into the reality world, showing all the ins, outs and breaking points of everyday people. Yet, they are so unrealistic and almost unbelievable. At the beginning, the concept of “The Real World” was great, especially for college-aged viewers beginning to experience just that, the real world. Sadly as it grew with popularity and seasons continued, the reality factor became less and less prevalent. It is almost interesting how quickly TV show producers took advantage of their power to really alter reality. Honestly, we are all living life; we know the difference between real and fake.

Now in this day in age, where does TV really stand? Why is it so addicting? Rather than just debate the point, Psychology Today conducted a survey of 239 people with the Reiss Profile, asking them about their television viewing habits and their values. It was concluded that the most common reasons were that they watch in order to talk with friends and coworkers about the show and that they are not as smart as other viewers. That’s almost funny. Americans watch shows that promote brain inactivity because they don’t think their brain is active enough. This is the point where all college students can rejoice for consistently juicing their brains.

The fine line of integrity and entertainment is always the breaking point for reality TV. It is quite obvious that this category of television isn’t going anywhere … at least not anytime soon. Just be sure not to be bamboozled by the fancy scripts and dim lights. Keep your eyes open for the bit of extraordinary in the everyday life.

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

Battle of the Brands: iPhone vs. Droid


In this generation, all we look forward to is the new hot item. Whether it is clothes, music or reality tv, everybody needs to have it first. However, all of this can’t compete with the everlasting rivalry between iPhone and Droid users. Who is really the best? Are green bubbles really a sign of weakness or is Siri a mind controller? It’s the battle of the brands, and College Gloss Mizzou is here to figure it all out.

Released in June 2007, Steve Jobs brought the iPhone into the world knowing it would be a spectacle to many as it modeled the very popular iPod. Not far behind was the intel Google release of Android beta in November 2007. The war began.

Now because Apple is the only company to make iPhones it is able to focus completely on those software details. The software is what originally grabbed the attention of tech users. What’s better than the software is its simplicity. What’s better than the simplicity is how frequently it is updated. That combination is perfect for those who are all about being number one. Apple makes sure that even its newest updates are supported on older devices. Being in college, of course we can’t always have the newest look, but at least it can run like the newest thing.

Unlike minutes, unlimited apps are a must have. Apple doesn’t offer many varieties of the iPhone. With the release of newer versions, the original and extended version featuring Siri (4 and 4s), and slightly better software, it's easier for developers to target their apps to just Apple. With the use of apps comes use of battery, and that will always be the death of all you “speedy fingers” out there. Unlike iPhones, Droids have a variety of hardware, which means their battery life varies between devices. However, iPhone has fixed that problem with the iPhone 5 and made it possible to go 24 hours without charging your phone. Crazy! Most Androids have 4G LTE, which can work eight hours straight without a charge. That means they don't last an entire day, just a work day. If you’re happy with that, then Droid it is.

What about the carriers? With all the merging and bankruptcy, we are kind of forced to settle with one of the big four: AT&T, Verizon, Sprint or T-Mobile. As of this spring both devices are available through all carriers. Of course there is a price difference between them, but that depends on the company. Speaking of price, a variety of Droid devices are free when paired with a new two-year contract from a phone company. Apple has just began to offer the four free with a two-year contract. Still, Android offers more choices.

Lastly, we have the look, and it’s all about the looks. For those of you who love the big screen, grab an Android. Most of their screen sizes average at about 4.3 inches. The larger devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy Note, have a screen that stretches to about 5 inches! No worries on misplacing that one. Apple increased the size of the iPhone also, but just by height and not width, making it appear much slimmer. Also, when it comes to personalization, surprisingly, the Android offers more options. Yet, the passion iPhone users have for their device will allow them to believe the experience of just having an iPhone is worth far more than what it looks like and can really do.

At the end of the day both devices are at the top of the pyramid and will continue to dominate the mobile scene. Don’t look for either to be wiped out in the near future. Just enjoy your phone, and text away, College Glossers!

By: Khadijah McGill | Article: Source | Image: Source

What's My Name?: Crazy Baby Name Mania


In Tennessee, north of the rainbow, a bear attacked the pilot inspector eating an apple. Can you guess how many of those words are baby names? If you guessed six, then you’re right! This trend of nouns and verbs as names has become a staple for the upper class. It has even gone so far that some of these celebrity couples have patented their baby names for the sake of uniqueness. For the sake of sanity, let’s hope their nicknames are a tad bit more understandable.

According to the Baby Center, in 2012 the two most popular baby names were Sophia and Aiden. Cute with a twist on tradition. So how do these all-star couples find room to think of such names as Rainbow?

Resparking this trend was couple Kim Kardashian and Kanye West when they named their newborn girl North West, nicknamed Nori. It was all only rumored that couple would commit to this name. Somewhere aside other choices such as Dondia, Kanye’s late grandmother’s name, or Kaidence, which would keep the Kardashian tradition strong, things went in a new direction ... literally. No one will really know what goes through the mind of someone with such creativity in naming. Between those two egos and all the flashing lights, keeping the one-of-a-kind flow is critical. Let’s not forget that North West’s future playmate and probably godsister Blue Ivy, baby girl of top couple Beyonce and Jay-Z, won an award for most outrageous baby name.

In traditional American culture names were inspired by religious context. Over the years and throughout a mixture of culture, the name is not only a representation of heritage but personality. It's a tad bit confusing though since it is the parents who choose the name without knowing the personality of the child. What is even more strange is that it is accepted by so many. I mean who wouldn't want to be the child of a famous celebrity even if it meant your name would be Bear?

This trend isn't just occurring in America either. In Europe, the government had to step in and begin to ban the use of certain names. Believe it or not all these babies are regular citizens. Names such as Mr. and Lucifier were restricted by the government officials in the U.K. Yes, someone tried to name their child Lucifer. Try waiting at Rolins Late Night with a name like that.

At the same time, many have begun to criticize these outrageous names by saying they only create even larger boundaries between the famous and average citizen. This is quite true, but I don't think the celebrities win this time. All the fame and fortune in the world couldn't make me name my child Nakoa-Wolf Manakauapo Namakaeha Momoa, name of Lisa Bonet’s third daughter.

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

Live. Laugh. Tan.


Now that summer has officially started and the hottest weather has yet to arrive, getting that gorgeous natural glow is a must for most. While most people feel they are aware of the negative side effects that come along with tanning, there are many more misconceptions that go unnoticed. As college students it is important to pay attention to our health. So before you jump into your next tanning bed or soak in the sun too long, learn the facts!

Natural sun tans: People seem to think outdoor tanning is the safest way to do it. This is definitely true. However, staying in the sun too late can become a major cause for age spots, discoloration or even gene mutations that cause skin cancer. Most people will suffer from sunburn even with an adequate amount of sunscreen. On the brighter side, outdoor tanning allows the body to soak in tons of vitamin D. According to the Livestrong Health, the best way to make sure this happens is to use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15. This will result in higher UVB protection. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer or extremely fair skin, getting a sunscreen with SPF 30 will be a much better fit.

Indoor tanning beds: These have skyrocketed in popularity over the past couple years, as they serve as a quick way to get that bronze glow. But does convenience outweigh safety? In general, because you are in the bed for a shorter amount of time, skin burns decrease greatly. But don’t forget that UV rays are still being placed directly on you. According to cdc.gov, both UVA and UVB rays can lead to cancer, and those under the age of 35 have a 75 percent higher risk of melanoma in the future. Yes, melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer. It is highly recommended to take extra precautions when using tanning beds to avoid even the smallest risk.

Spray tans: They are probably the safest method of tanning, and to most they are probably the least amount of fun. Spray tans only affect the outer layer of your skin, and no UV rays are involved. However, there are some cons. A bad application of the tan will leave a very unnatural look. The zebra look isn’t really for everyone and neither is the oompa-lumpa. On top of a bad look, spray tans can be messy. Many will leave clothes and sheets golden yellow or brown. Making sure you find somewhere to apply and someone to properly apply the tan is key to a believable look.

At the end of the day it is summer and we girls just want to look beautiful, eat well and have fun. Start by staying smart and researching the best tan for you. For more information on how to properly tan and which sunscreen to use check out tanningtruth.com. Enjoy your summer, College Glossers!

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

How to Turn Trash into Cash

Going through phones is almost habit for most people. Whether it is a broken screen or faulty battery, something always seems to go wrong with these electronics. However, people have found a way to make use of this “trash.” Many stores and bins have popped up around to entice people to recycle their old phones, cameras, flash drives, etc.

Well-known stores, such as Best Buy, have started a great plan where you can trade in your old cameras and phones. You are given a trade-in value and an option to just recycle it for free. All value is put on a gift card, which can even be given to someone as a gift. Kill two birds with one stone for the price of free!

Another website, Gazelle, has created a market geared toward trade-ins and cash for old computers, iPods and phones. It offers great incentives for you and your friends to get rewards on turning in those unwanted electronics. Gazelle specializes particularly in Samsung and Apple products.

There are also electronic drop bins in many retailers. If you don’t necessarily want to make a profit from the device, simply drop it in the bin, without the battery, and continue with your day. It’s hassle free and great for the environment. The devices are recycled and reused for parts or strategically broken down so that chemicals are not released into the air.

Amazon also does trade-ins. What’s special about this site is that it accepts more than just electronics. We all can relate to the struggle of wanting to sell back books for a fair amount. Even though you need an Amazon account, a good eye of judgement is just as important. All shipping is free of charge, and the value is credited onto an Amazon gift card. There's even a chance you’ll get higher than you ask.

With all of these ways to earn cash with that old junk, be sure you take the necessary steps to get the most out of the deal. Here's how:

1. Round up & research: Getting together all the electronics you wish to sell and finding their correct value is key to any successful trade-in. Do not exclude broken items either. Remember: reuse, recycle, restore!

2. Weighing out the options: It can be tedious, but looking into multiple places for a trade-in is important. Don't be bought so quickly.

3. Spread the word: Tell your friends about the deal. That $76 you received from your old phone could lead to a great outing with friends.

Have fun saving this summer, College Glossers!

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

Too Much Sexy for Your Sport?


Thinking about getting into sports? Has it always been your passion to play in the WNBA or NWSL? Well if so, be sure to compete like no other. As a woman in sports you have to be better than good enough. Then again, what woman isn’t?

The history of sports dates back to the Greek Gods and their races; even before then, to a time when things went misunderstood. Today, sports is still misunderstood. For as long as most can remember being involved in sports has been a masculine trait. Regardless of the physical skill involved in the sport, women are seen as incapable of being taken serious at a competitive level. It is surprising to note that just 41 years ago the Title IX law was passed, prohibiting gender discrimination in every educational program that receives federal funding, especially athletics. Crazy how competitive the world can get. Below is a quick timeline of some major events in sports regarding equality and respect for women. (Compliments of northnet.com)

  • 776 B.C. - The first Olympics are held in ancient Greece. Women are excluded, so they compete every four years in their own Games of Hera.
  • 1804 - The first woman jockey was Alicia Meynell of England. 
  • 1990 - Bernadette Locke becomes the first female Division I coach of a men's basketball team when she joins the University of Kentucky as an assistant coach to Rick Pitino in June.
  • 2005 - February 9 marks the 19th annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day. The 2005 theme is "More than a Game".
  • 2012 - South Plantation, Fla., backup quarterback Erin DiMeglio becomes the first girl in state history to play quarterback in a varsity high school football game. Although 500 girls have played for Florida football teams, none have ever entered the game as a quarterback.

Basketball, football and baseball are all seen as traditional sports. Two of them offer a women's league, which to many are intermediate leveled, and the other fails to even recognize women as capable for the sport. That is crazy! As women we have to be stronger physically and emotionally when it comes to sports. All of this we are beyond capable of. There has been an array of leading ladies in sports who have put women on the map and protested for equality. This stereotype that women don’t know sports or aren’t genetically capable is astounding. Living a healthy lifestyle produces healthy athletes, but passion makes great athletes.

Women have come a long way in sports. It is important to continue to encourage present and future generations of women to get out there and compete. College Glossers around the nation are stepping out and doing big things on and off the field. I’m sure it is safe to say now that everything is at an even playing field, so let the games begin!

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

Easy Ways to Live Healthy Without the Sacrifice


As warm weather approaches, most of us are still trying to get those beautiful beach bodies for the summer. What people lack is knowing how to be healthy and beautiful. Living a healthy lifestyle may not seem so easy because it usually means expensive exercise machines, strange organic foods and lots of time wasted. No fear, College Gloss is here! (Please excuse the corniness...)

As far as diet goes, eating healthy does not necessarily correlate with organic. Healthy is treating your body right -- physically and emotionally. Don’t sacrifice time going to your local natural store and spending hours trying to figure out what is what. Use items in your fridge now to create some five star meals! Pinterest is a great way to find recipes.

1. Olive Oil: Cooking with olive oil helps get rid of the greasy fat buildup in meats

2. Greens: Color on a plate really is a good sign. Just about any green item from the produce or spice aisle is good for you.

3. Black Pepper: As weird as it may seem black pepper has been linked to helping fight bacteria and benefiting the digestive system.

4. Chili Pepper: Chili peppers may be spicy, but they are great for promoting weight loss and fighting diabetes.

All of these food products can be purchased at your local Wal-Mart for under $5 each and will last for quite some time.

Exercising is simple! There is no need to buy any workout tapes or expensive yoga balls when you can simply download a free app. Not only are they free, but they work around your schedule and keep you on task. A lot of people don't like to sacrifice being comfortable, so they avoid the gym. Getting a reliable group of people together at a set time three days out of the week for a good workout will keep your body happy and healthy, but be sure not to over-do it. Most health specialists note that excessive exercising is actually bad for the body. Remember, being skinny does not necessarily correlate with being healthy, and being overweight doesn't correlate with being unhealthy.

As for life in general, be happy for you. Happiness should not mean sacrificing another essential part of your life. Keep your pockets and body healthy by just learning what is best for you. College may be one of the many climaxes of your life so live it up, College Glossers!

By: Khadijah McGill | Image: Source

CGM's Summer Guide to STL, Chicago and Kansas City


This summer is all about having fun and saving big. The top three cities represented by Mizzou students, St. Louis, Chicago and Kansas City, all have attractions and events made for the college budget.

Chicago


Chicago has a great downtown area that hosts many free festivals during the summer. For example, the jazz fest and theatre sagas are very popular among tourists and residents. For people who aren't so much into crowds, the museums and aquarium offer free days for the public. These days can get hectic though, so be prepared! On the more casual side there is Millennium Park, a great place to attend free concerts, have picnics or even take a water break by the towers.

St. Louis 


STL is also a great place for attractions. It is known for its zoo and amazing arch, both of which are free to the public. The St. Louis Zoo is a popular attraction for many tourists because it is completely free and offers many side amenities and games inside. It is world renown for its great upkeep of the park and animals. Don't think that because you've been there so many times it won't be exciting. Grab a fun group of people and personalities to make lifetime memories.

Kansas City


Kansas City is seen by many as benchwarmer of Mizzou cities, but it offers just as much unique fun as Chicago and St. Louis. It’s known for its great BBQ and Midwest country feel. Sometimes the big city can be too much to handle. This would be an almost ideal place to get away to find and experience a new lifestyle. Vacationing will not be a pocket plunder either. Food costs are much cheaper than the city and the food quality is better than average. If you want to get a taste of tradition while in “The Home of BBQ,” take a trip to Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque, an old time classic. After dinner enjoy some shopping at the popular Crown Center, Hallmark headquarters, which features more than 60 restaurants, shops and attractions for families. Finish your day with a trip to The Kaleidoscope Museum, the magical art studio that allows you to be a kid again with its abundance of arts, crafts and games.

Though these are only a few of the many big cities represented in CoMo, they are close to Columbia, making them cheap, perfect getaways for College Glossers! Happy Summer savings!

By: Khadijah McGill | Images: 1, 2, 3, 4
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