My Commons Life

News & features about the Vanderbilt Commons from the students who live here

Callie Tuck

Common Ground, Uncommon Lives: Tales from the Commons

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1.) Emile Marija

Emile is a passionate and dedicated individual with a strong commitment to leadership and community service. She graduated high school from UWC ISAK Japan, one of the 18 United World Colleges, where the focus on leadership and community engagement shaped her experiences. At ISAK, she was the president of the student council, leader of the Journalism Club, and an Outdoor Education leader, roles that allowed her to make a significant impact on her school and local community.

Through Outdoor Education, she not only became wilderness first aid certified but also organized and led trips such as hiking, skiing, canyoning, and rafting. Some memorable adventures included climbing Mt. Fuji, cycling 110 km around the 5 Fuji lakes, and watching a sunrise atop a local volcano. In addition to Outdoor Education, she was involved in dance, founded an archery club, and led a Bible Study. She also took on a leadership role in the First Aid Club for some time, further demonstrating her versatility and commitment to helping others.

Fluent in both Lithuanian and English, she is currently improving her Spanish and has some understanding of German and Japanese. Her dream career is still evolving, but she hopes to pursue something related to policy. She has a deep love for travel and unforgettable journeys, such as hitchhiking through Norway to go canyoning and a two-week European adventure with a close friend. More recently, she has traveled through Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali with friends from ISAK, adding to a collection of meaningful experiences. Alongside her love for travel, she is incredibly proud of her Lithuanian heritage, often reflecting on the country’s beauty, culture, and history.

Now pursuing a degree in Arts and Sciences with a major in Human and Organizational Development (HOD) and Economics, Emile brings a unique combination of leadership, service, and global perspective. Her passion for community, adventure, and learning will no doubt lead her to great accomplishments in the future.

Common Ground, Uncommon Lives: Tales from the Commons

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1.) Emily Benfield

Meet Emily Benfield! She is a dedicated and resilient individual originally from Newport, Rhode Island, but has also lived in California and Virginia Beach (Where she now lives). She has a lived a very unique journey. In fifth grade Emily was diagnosed with Dyslexia and Developmental Coordination Disorder. Facing these early challenges, Emily developed a strong work ethic and a knack for creative problem-solving, traits she now channels into her aspiration to become a teacher. She aims to support students in overcoming their own obstacles, drawing from her personal experiences. Which she wrote about in her Application to Vanderbilt, stating, “Disadvantages are Advantages.”

On top of this, she has been actively engaged in her community through her organization of two impactful events: the Love Run and the Color Run. The Love Run, coordinated with two local high schools, raised over $50,000 to help cover medical expenses for children facing extended hospital stays at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD). Meanwhile, the Color Run was a heartfelt tribute to a loved one who passed due to cancer complications, raising funds and bringing the community together in their memory.

Additionally, Emily was deeply involved in theater, where she took on roles as a technical supervisor and assistant director, overseeing set design, construction, and actor coordination—sometimes staying as late as 9 p.m. to ensure production quality! Her favorite musical she was a part of was, “The Little Mermaid,” and her favorite play was, “Puffs.”

Ultimately, Emily is very service-orientated and willing to help others. She is incredible kind, dedicated and a loyal friend. She has a genuine compassion that stands out in her community and will accomplish many great things.

Commons Houses as Hunger Games Characters

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1.) Hank

Let’s be honest—we all saw this one coming. Hank is the President Snow of the group, lurking in the shadows with more schemes than Netflix has shows. No, Hank’s not winning the Hunger Games, but they might just be the puppet master pulling all the strings from behind the scenes.

2.) Crawford

Crawford? Oh, they’re Thresh. Noble, competent, with a strong moral compass that would make even Katniss nod approvingly. Can they win the Hunger Games? Maybe. It really depends on how the dice roll (or how the sponsors feel that day). They’ve got a chance, though—don’t count them out.

3.) Sutherland

Sutherland is basically the Mockingjay, no debate. With their strength, kindness, and teamwork skills, they could not only win the Hunger Games but might just lead a rebellion against Hank—sorry, I mean President Snow. Sutherland for District 12’s MVP, anyone?

4.) Stambaugh

Stambaugh is the Peeta Mellark to Sutherland’s Katniss. (Yes, TEAM PEETA ALL THE WAY!) With strength, a big heart, and that “everyone loves them” vibe, they’ve got what it takes to win the Hunger Games and probably bake you a cake while doing it.

5.) East

Now, East is Caesar Flickerman, no question. With a personality so entertaining and charming, they’re definitely not winning the Hunger Games, but they’re making it an absolute blast to watch. Whether that’s good or bad? Well, that’s up to you to decide.

6.) Murray

Murray students are mysterious, powerful, and, from what I hear, just a smidge unhinged, which lands them as Clove. Sure, with a power score of ten, they’ve got the skills, but their impulsive nature? Yeah, I’m not seeing a Hunger Games win. But they’ll definitely make an impression.

7.) West

West is Finnick Odair, hands down. Loyal, caring, and with heart-warming charm, they’re an instant fan favorite. Do I see them winning the Hunger Games? No, but only because they’d probably sacrifice themselves for the greater good—and honestly, we’d all cry like we did during that one scence in the sewer.

8.) Memorial

Memorial is Rue—smart, skilled, and incredibly lovable. They might not be the one taking home the victory, but they’re the quiet, stealthy competition you didn’t see coming, and a crowd favorite for sure. Tribute goals.

9.) North

North is fierce, fearless, and unapologetically ruthless—basically Cato, but with better hair (seriously). While they charge headfirst into every challenge, quick decisions might just be their downfall. A win in the Hunger Games? Unlikely, but you wouldn’t want to cross them in the arena.

10.) Gillette

Free-spirited, creative, and driven, Gillette is 100% Lucy Gray Baird in the flesh. With that inspiring, big-hearted energy, they’ve got a real shot at winning the Hunger Games. Cue the folksy victory song—this one’s bound to be a fan favorite at commons and in the districts.

Unwritten Rules at Vanderbilt

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This article will explore the unwritten rules you may have been following without even realizing, or perhaps you’re just now hearing about them. Either way, this article might help you feel more connected to the freshman experience and the unspoken rules that come with it.

1.) 10 Feet Rule

I will live and die by this rule. This rule is implemented when you recognize someone, but they are too far away to say hi. So instead of saying hi and having that awkwardly long walk until you pass them, you just look everywhere but in that person’s direction till you are about 10 ft from said person. This is where you magically see them say hi and walk swiftly past them.

2.) The “Hi” enthusiasm spectrum

This one is an EXACT science. There are varying levels of greeting someone that differ in loudness and presentation. If someone gives you a nod- you give a nod back. Simple. If someone gives you a loud hey and a smile you do the same back. MATCH THE ENERGY.

3.) How many times can you ACTUALLY go back into Commons dining

This one is a hot take. I know you are allowed to go into commons as many times as you want, but are you really? How many times is too many? Once for your regular food and drink and then a second trip for dessert? It feels illegal to go back for that third trip. Someone let me know if, on that third trip, you trigger an alarm or magically disappear.

4.) Unassigned assigned seats

This one is a very standard and basic rule. I am sure everyone knows what I am talking about. The seat you sat in on the first few days of school is probably the seat you sit in now and will sit in for the rest of YOUR LIFE. I am seriously emotionally attached to my unassigned assigned seat.

5.) STAYING OUT OF THE FAST LANE IF YOU ARE A SLOW WALKER

THIS ONE NEEDS TO BE A LAW. I have to sprint between classes to make it on time. There is seriously not a second to spare, so if you recognize someone behind you is getting awkwardly close- save their attendance and let them pass. I know without a doubt they will be INCREDIBLY grateful.

As always, I hope you enjoyed!

Atrocities I’ve committed in My First Month

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Here is a short list of a few things I am guilty of doing.

1.) Hanging out with someone without knowing their name

I am a repeat offender in this category. I would say I am terrible with names, but I am also terrible with faces. I have gone on countless dinners without actually knowing the other person’s name. (I have not been caught once, but it has come SO close.)

2.) Saying I understand something when I actually have no clue

This is THE ONE. I will ask questions in class and either a TA, Student, or professor will explain and give me an answer and my response is always, “Thank you that makes more sense.” When in fact I am even more confused than before I asked the question.

3.) Seeing someone far away and thinking I know them when in reality I need glasses

Picture this, I am walking between classes and I see somone I mostly definitely know (name included) and I will smile and wave. Then as I get closer I realize they aren’t waving back and I have never seen this person in my life.

4.) THIS ONE IS TOP SECRET: I keep forgetting not to pour solutions back into their container in Lab (and I also over titrate an ungodly amount)

PLEASE don’t cancel me. I over pour every single time and before I remember not to pour it back into the container its already too late. (I have actually been getting a little better at it per lab I had today.) ALSO I have discovered I am not patient enough for titration AT ALL. I have over titrated every single time. (I usually start making up numbers when I am like 6 titrations deep.)

5.) Saying I am going to lock in and then an hour is gone and I haven’t accomplished anything

I fear that everyone is struggling with this one. I have a study group (if you can even call it that) and we spend most the time talking. If its a good day, we will get like 15 minutes of hardcore studying.

6.) Losing THE Game (and now you have too)

I AM SORRY IT HAD TO BE DONE!

I hope you guys enjoyed. Make sure to check out more mycommons.life content!

10 Simple Halloween Costumes for Freshman Balling on a Budget

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1.) Sun or Moon

This is a very simple and cute costume idea! For the sun you can wear either gold or yellow depending on what you have and grey or silver for the moon. I also threw a sun headband and sun dangly earrings when I went as the sun.

2.) Fairy

(I know this photo quality is the WORST, so don’t slander me PLEASE.) I like this idea because there are so many spins you can put on it. As a forest fairy, I wore a green dress, a brown corset, and a thorn crown. You could also throw on a pretty dress and some wings for a different take!

3.) Cowboy or Cowgirl

This one is very easy because all you need is a flannel, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat and you are set. We live in Nashville so if you happen to not have one of these items I guarantee multiple people do in a one-mile radius.

4.) Witch

This is a very easy-to-put-together costume. You only need a black dress and a witches hat. You can throw in a wand for an extra witchy appeal.

5.) Flapper

This one is so fun and easier than you might think. Grab your favorite mid-thigh dress and some pearls and you will be sucked right back into the roaring 20s! (P.S. Feathered headbands were also popular for flappers during this time.)

6.) Pirate

For this costume, I would recommend a white button-up, a leather skirt, and a red bandana! I would also style my hair wavy for that extra piratey look.

7.) Chappel Roan

I hope to see at least one Chappell Roan walking around campus this Halloween. Her signature look is her curly hair and drag makeup. She has several iconic outfits to choose from!

8.) Firefighter

This one is super fun! Throw on your favorite tan cargo pants, a black top, and a red firefighter hat and you are also set to fire up the party. Extra points if you can convince a friend to dress up as a Dalmatian.

9.) Minion

Here me out of this one! Most people have overalls and some form of a yellow top which is half of the costume. To pull off the rest of the costume make sure to get some goggles and a banana.

10.) Princess Peach and Princess Daisy

This idea is so cute! Grab a pink dress for Peach and an orange for Daisy. To complete the look grab some white gloves and a tiara!

I hope this helped give you some ideas for this Halloween. Thank you so much for reading!

My Favorite Dragon Related Objects in My Room

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I hope you enjoy my obsession with dragons!

1.) Stapler

This is by far one of my favorite dragon related items in my room. My mother bought it for me, so if anyone needs anything stapled, I have you covered. (Also dingo the dino is holding the stabler in case you were wondering)

2.) Notebook

I love this notebook! Every page is blank because I am not sure what exactly I want to fill the pages with. I was thinking of maybe creating a scrapbook of this year.

3.) Wall Decor above Headboard

This is actually like top favorite parts of my room in general. My roommate even has a matching one with her name. Definitely the coolest thing I own.

4.) Dragon Sculpture

Fun fact this dragon is held together with nail glue- it did not survive move in day. Also, if anyone has any name ideas, I am all ears.

5.) Stuffed Animal

This stuffed animal was a gift from my roommate, so we would have matching ones. Mines name is Herbert Funyeon (left) and hers is name Hugo Fritos (right). (Yes, ofcourse we can tell them apart.)

6.) Blanket

I love the colors of this blanket, but it gets so cold in our room, so I use it as a “decoration” for my comforter that I actually use.

7.) Matching Sign

This sign matches my blanket! I thought it was so perfect, but I thought it would be MUCH bigger.

8.) Desk Organizer

I thrifted this from goodwill and then painted it SO don’t judge my painting skills. I think it matches my room pretty well.

9.) Dragon Incense Holder

ILL START OFF BY SAYING NO I DONT BURN INCENSE HERE, but I used to at home, and I figured it would be a nice piece of decor. My oil diffuser is next to it, and if you couldn’t tell, I freshly knocked it over right before this picture was taken.

10.) BONUS: Dragon Tatoo

I have a dragon tattoo, and it wraps around my bicep! It was actually my first tattoo, and it took around three very long hours. I am thinking about getting shading done, but I’m not sure yet. This specific dragon is also from my grandparents’ wallpaper in their bedroom!

Tunes you need for your walk between classes

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You are going to have to hear me out on some of these.

1.) Hurricane- Bridgit Mendler

Recommended occasion: SUN IS OUT WIND IS BLOWING

Recommended mood: like an 8 on the 1-10 happy scale

2.) Habits (Stay High) – Tove Lo

Recommended Occasion: Night classes, DARK

Recommended mood: like medium sad with a tinge of carelessness

3.) Runaway- Kanye

Recommended Occasion: Walking directly out of your first class to your second class. (TRUST ME)

Recommended mood/feeling: problematic

4.) Gives You Hell- All American Rejects

Recommended Occasion: walking to that one professor’s class

Recommended mood: TARGETED ANGER + FRUSTRATION = Targeted FRUNGER

5.) ARE WE STILL FRIENDS- Tyler, The Creator

Recommended Occasion: sunset walking back to your dorm after your last class

Recommended mood: LONGING, HEARTBREAK, LITERALLY EVERYTHING

6.) Hypnotize- Biggie

Recommended Occasion: When you where your favorite fit (extra points if it’s a good hair day)

Recommended mood: FEELING LIKE A MILLION BUCKS

7.) New Magic Wand- Tyler, The Creator

Recommended Occasion: ONCE AGAIN IT NEEDS TO BE DARK AND LIKE MIDLY WARM, WIND BLOWING

Recommended mood: UNSTABLE, JEALOUS, CRAZY

8.) Pain- PinkPantheress

Recommended Occasion: on the way to your eight am class

Recommended mood: sad, and like a tiny bit hopeless

9.) Pink Pony Club- Chappell Roan

Recommended Occasion: Tuesday mid-day (don’t ask questions)

Recommended mood: its chappell- you don’t need a mood

10.) No Love- Eminem

Recommended Occasion: ANY OCCASSION EVER

Recommended mood: ANY MOOD EVER OR HOT TAKE WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE PEOPLE ARE PRAYING ON YOUR DOWNFALL

11.) Tennis court AND Love Club- both by Lorde

Recommended Occasion: specifically, Fridays at night.

Recommended mood: when you feel cooler than everyone else in like an outcast way

EXTRAS

Smile- Lily Allen

Maneater/Say it right- Nelly Furtado

I wait for you- Alex G

Family Affair- Mary J. Blinge

Cigarettes out the Window- TV Girl

I hope you enjoy the recommendations, Happy listening!