Market for Students Eat Cheap Delicious College restaurant

Little Pizzoli’s reaches out to two target markets. The first target market is business oriented middle class men and women looking to get lunch. They cater to this market by providing exceptionally fast service in order to accommodate for their short lunch breaks. Their second target market includes families who are looking for a casual environment so they can visit and enjoy dinner. Pizzoli’s maintains customer loyalty by recognizing their customers and making them feel like regulars. This is easier for the dinner customers because they have more time to talk and get to know each other. Pizzoli’s believes that it’s the little things that count and those are the things that the customer is going to remember. Remembering their favorite dishes

For their core customers, Pizzoli’s offers discounted prices on habitually purchased items and even the inclusion of free items such as bread. The owner abides by her statement, “if you are here all of the time and I know you are coming back I’m going to take care of you.” The owner believes that the main reason customer’s give them business is because they have good food and it is always consistent. She believes consistency is key and always having the same look, portion size, and making sure it always tastes the same makes them dependable in the customer’s eyes and it’s reason that the customer will always be pleased every time they visit. She always believes a way to attract and keep customers is to let them know they are always right. Even if it means losing a little money, keeping them happy and keeping their business is best in the long run.

Merchandising
Little Pizzoli’s uses a par list in order to select the inventory they need to satisfy their customer’s needs and wants. The list keeps track of how many items are selling per week, so they always know to have that many on hand. The par is adjusted based on a checks and balances system. If something isn’t selling or they are running out of a particular item, they adjust their par for the following week. Most of their suppliers were set up with the previous owner and continued to do business with them once they took over. Dole and Robinson are their main food distributers with some other vendors that had come and personally asked for their business. Their retail strategy for their inventory focuses on price and quality. When they took over they lowered the price of several of their items because they believe in keeping things fair with their customers. Quality also plays a big part with what they choose for their inventory. The only thing that is not homemade is their pasta. In order to forecast their merchandise needs, they use their par system and take inventory twice a week. They believe it’s always hit or miss and you just have to know your town and the time of year in order to know what merchandise you will need.

Pricing
Little Pizzoli’s has a varying pricing strategy; different things cost them different amounts to make. Their usual markup for food is 300%, while this sounds like it’s a lot, it really isn’t. It gives them what they need to efficiently and effectively run the restaurant and make a profit. This markup can vary, depending on the food item. More expensive (in time and labor) items may have less overall markup. Little Pizzoli’s does run specials or sales throughout the week on certain menu items. On Monday nights, they offer all you can eat spaghetti with a Tech I.D. On Wednesday nights, they have half price wine with the purchase of an entrée. Something that they consider when coming up with specials and sales is what will it cost them. The half price wine deal is not to help them make money on the wine, they do it to get customers into their restaurant. Mrs. Garfunkle stated that, “If you are going to do a sale, you have to have things that people bring in, not a sale on things people don’t like.” Little Pizzoli’s pricing strategy is very competitive; they try to stay right with or just below the competition. Little Pizzoli’s staff knows that their customers are very price sensitive. The customers are quick to gripe about any change in price, or an upcharge for a menu item such as a $2.95 salad.

Competition
The owener of Little Pizzoli’s do not consider the other Italian restaurant in the area direct completion- however, Roma's is taking business from them. Their strengths include customers who consider their food to be a different type of food, more homemade type; whereas the other is more bistro, Americanized Italian. Another strength is their ability to keep loyal customers who love home cooked and authentic cuisine. The opening of What-a-burger heavily impacted their business for about a week, they handle situations like this by just pushing through and knowing that people will come back if they continue to offer superior service and food. Little Pizzoli’s does have competition though, sWuch as, fast food chains, other sit down restaurants, and home meals.Consumer’s choose Little Pizzoli’s over the competition because of the homemade, true Italianquality to their food and their friendly fast service. Oppurtunities include the ability to expand into other cities in addition to having an increasingly stronger prescence among college students. Another oppurtunity, is the fact that many Threats include other restaurants and a small town economy fueled by college students who don't like to tip. In addition to slow summers, college students often will not tip so this is why their core customers are so important.

Finances and Little Pizzoli's: A Strength or Weakness?
Little Pizzoli's competes fiercely on price, but lucky for them, they already have complete ownership of the building and have one less worry to deal with on a frequent basis. When figuring out how much money would be needed to run their business, it came as a huge strength to have a prior-relationship with the previous owner, who was anxious to sell because of an on-going tense relationship with the landlord. They were able to pay for the building all at once, which has been a weakness in that the owners feel they should have talked them down to a lower price now, a realization that set in after thinking about all the effort they had to put into cleaning the place and not helped by the fact that the owner Mrs. Garfunkle does not like the “splatter paint” and other interior designs. A very clear piece of advice offered to entrpreneurs who need a location for their business was that they should buy the building all at once, or borrow from friends or family, and generally try to avoid the banks, interest rates, and other obstacles that are avoided after a one-time purchase or borrowing from trusted friends and family.

Promotion
Little Pizzoli's utilizes social media to promote their business. The co-owner takes full advantage of the reach that Facebook has. Facebook allows promoters to target specific geographic locations and also consumers. They have sales promotions throughout the week including a five dollar spaghetti night for University and Community College students as well as a half-off beer and spaghetti specialty on Wednesday's. They also promote on the television which was an area the owner, Mrs. Garfunkle feels their television advertising is a serious strength for Little Pizzoli's. They do not use a marketing agency. The co-owner, Mr. Goldstein, feels his specialty is in marketing and he takes control of the stores advertising and promotion.
They owners would certainly do everything again, Being a 20-year old and owning her own business is one of the greatest rewards Mrs. Garfunkle gets from her business. There are some changes they felt would She feels her greatest success as a company has been the ability to keep loyal and happy customers. In the future, Little Pizzoli's hopes to expand into Baton Rouge and possible New Orleans. The future is bright for this small, home-style store and their owners are excited looking into the future.

After meeting with the owners and living in Shreveport as part of their target demonstrates to me that they are competing well in the market despite many peers feeling their competitors are superior or at least garnishing more attention for their business. Competition is very fierce among small business owners in this area especially as it relates to local food. Their ability to create home style Italian cooking and a smooth transition from Monjuni's Italian Food into Little Pizzoli's has proven to be successful.

Career Fair: Advice, ProTips, and Motivation for Jobs

Career fairs or festivals are when many companies and business gather at a college campus to promote their business and try to recruit students who would help their company succeed. All grade levels are encouraged to attend this event, often dubbed Career Days, because classes are usually canceled so that students can attend the career fair and not miss class material. Career expos are a chance for potential employees to meet with employers to realize what is expected of them as future graduates who will be competing in the workforce. In the growing technological era, and during current economic times, this may also encompass an international market and workforce which can be overwhelming to many students who may not even be accustomed to receiving any paycheck never yet a salary or commissioned earning.

When attending Career Day try to find one or two friends to go with, this will help ease the social awkwardness many feel when in a large group of people with whom they are in direct competition. Students should be aware of the companies who are eager to recruit knowledgeable graduates in their specific study. Getting information from an engineering firm when Literature is your major is highly unadvised. Many college students need to "shy away from shyness" and open up to new experiences outside their comfort zone. Career Day is a chance for corporations through franchises and human resource managers to reach the cream of the crop of applicants. If working for a big business and national and international superstar such as Nike has been a career goal, then attending the Job Fair and being optimistic is a necessary step towards reaching satisfaction. On another side, local jobs from the community, such as Ruston, Louisiana's "Peach Orchard" or New York, New York's local cheesecake bakery "Cheese in my Cake" attend the local colleges to find talent at home. Career fairs are important because they are an example of companies searching for external workers outside of their organization. While, on a small-scale, minimum-wage/ hourly job, external recruiting is common, on the corporate level it usually isn't. This is because internal recruiting, that is, hiring through promotion or job postings is common because it is less risky and the employee has already demonstrated capability.

Companies understand that all levels of students are there, from freshman to graduating seniors. It is important for lower class students such as freshmen and sophomores to attend to gather experience and develop a reputation and face-value. For Juniors and Seniors, Career Day is a time to look into the near future and set goals and objective that utilize the years of hard studying (and some partying) done at the university. The contacts and information obtained from these events can dramatically change your starting salary and future plans for travel, family, or any monetary destination.
Businesses will set up booths with varying degrees of attention-getting material. This can range from poster boards and large colorful signs to basketball nets and pinball machines. Some companies may have a single sheet of paper to represent their company. This would represent endless possibilities and infinite potential for their young lives. Their main objective as a company is to get as many students over to their booth and to try and pitch their missions, philosophies, and job duties. They focus on finding potential employees with the right characteristics to fit the job, also known as person-job-fit. Another analysis these businesses may be doing is known as a organizational-job-fit which is how well the person will fit into their organization in regards to the company's mission and overall nature. Imagine the difference between working for a tax company with strict deadlines and very formal atmosphere compared to working in a stimulating, bright, and social environment that many sales teams contribute to, such as Zappos.

Dress formally and remember how important first impressions can be to a new client. Many students are not aware of marketing aspects which demonstrate how difficult it is to change a bad first impression into a good one. It is far more difficult to change a poor first impression into a positive one, than it is to go from a good first impression to a negative. The school's career center as well as dean's of study can be excellent sources of information for what to expect and how to behave at a career fair.
Speak with confidence and have an idea of what you are expecting. Why have you been studying all these years at college when you could have been working a minimum-wage job and being lazy?

State schools around the country and internationally are recruiting at younger and younger ages. Some new college students may be familiar with career days because they were offered during high school. This is because the market is becoming increasingly more competitive and is growing a measurable amount into international trade and globalization. By starting Job Fairs early, companies hope to avoid ethnocentric and nationalistic thinking that many young Americans believe. Realizing the power of external and foreign markets is a necessary step for new employees entering work and trying to support a family or their internal needs and goals.
Internships are highly competitive and very few spots are available. What's more, is that an internship is often unpaid and doesn't guarantee a job when the internship is over. This is why it is important for students to seek information from the Career Center, internet, books, gas-stations, and the Lady of the Mist for info about what opportunities are afforded to the student, given their qualifications and initial impressions. All college graduates need to be aware the challenges of finding a suitable career. Career Day experts, such as Professor Doctor Mary Allen Garbonzo P.h.d. M.d.  recommends three keys to finding a successful and satisfying career. First, the job must be challenging to avoid boredom and monotony. Second, the job must offer some sort of post-performance reward, specifically internally- where the worker feels accomplished and can view his accomplishments as positive (such as completing the building a bridge, a supervisor manager will feel accomplished and motivated); however, companies have been known to give external rewards such as gift-certificates when intrinsic rewards are rare, for a successful Network Security management. Third, Professor Doctor Garbonzo PhD, MD, recommends a career where the employee feels they are contributing to the overall benefit of the company. Graduates should be aware of these keys to happiness for long-term success. Now that the job market demands college graduates, to an extent unforeseeable in the 1980's, college career days are opportunities of a lifetime for those young academics who are able to complete the challenges presented by higher level education.

Many of these expositions can occur on a seasonal basis depending on the demand of the local community. Many franchises look to these fairs as a main source of employee recruitment and job-retention.  This increases the importance of making a good first impression, being formally dressed, well groomed, and professional  Try standing out from the massive amount of other students by standing up straight, speaking clear, and acting upper class and alpha. No business or Human Resource center is going to want to higher some beta student before they employ an alpha specimen. This is because alpha's demonstrate the characteristics of leadership, sociability, agreeableness, and success that the firm needs.
Put a smile on and be confident and creative. These are all surefire means of being a huge success and making career day as informational and effective towards a lifetime of high paying careers, and also being thankful that the time and risks spent by furthering education pay off financially.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There is a tribute to Aaron Swartz located at the end of this review. It begins with the photo of Mr. Swartz for the readers who wish to read ahead.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology or M.I.T. is a prestigious and highly respectable university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Their mission statement reads

"The mission of MIT is to advance knowledge and educate students in science, technology and other areas of scholarship that will best serve the nation and the world in the 21st century"

M.I.T. specialized in developing the brightest minds from around the world. The impact the school has on the surrounding area is impressive. Our review was instantly going to be positive once their computer lab was shown. The technology at this school is incredible, simply astounding. Students have access to some of the latest and most powerful technology including computers that are in current use with NASA at this moment.

Established early in 1861 as a school for the elite, Massachusetts Institute of Technology was actually opened for students in 1865. The school played a important role in military defense during World War Two when the government asked the students for their help in fighting a war that didn't directly involve his country. Being the ambitious students that they are, the students eagerly helped defend the United States against the invading countries. Their rivals are Harvard because both prestigious universities are located in the same state and compete in similar athletic events.

This school also has a well organized and friendly admissions service although their admission rate was under 10% in 2011. This school guaranteeing a future of intellectual success and it is the dream of many engineers in sciences, physics, mathematics, computer engineering, and even arts to attend class as a Tim the Beaver, their school's mascot.

President: L. Rafael Reif
Colors: Cardinal Red and Steel Gray
Zip Code: 02139
Telephone: (617) 253-1000
Notable Alumni include the founder of the Texas Instruments calculator, various senators, supreme court justices, and government officials; as well as, Christina Romer, and the Prime Minister of Greece.

Our blog would like to take a moment aside from M.I.T.'s fantastic educational program to pay our respects to Mr. Swartz, a man who's life inspires millions of intellectuals. His work will not soon be forgotten, he was a courageous student and

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology declined to support their student, Aaron Swartz, when faced with severe legal ramifications for accessing JSTOR, an online collection of scholarly works. JSTOR fully supports Swartzs' actions making his untimely leaving even more sad. Their decision is believed to be influenced by money, though the school cited 'personal differences.'

Aaron Swartz wrote "Guerilla Open Access Manifesto" on January 18, 2013. It begins as "Information is power. But like all power, there are those who want to keep it for themselves." a startlingly truth that Mr. Swartz was one of the first to see clearly. He was able to see first hand what we all believe. Aaron Swartz was a remarkably intelligent computer programmer and activist and embodies what it means to be a renaissance man and how to responsibly use the gifts he was given to benefit everyone and not just himself.

International Students and Stability

The students of Venezuela, Syria, and Turkey must face classes during a time of political instability. Their economies are suffering and as a result so is the educational system for these countries.

Venezuela
Hugo Chavez is terminally ill and cannot attend getting sworn into office for a third term. The country now does not know who their leader is going to be because the interim president is an appointed official, not an elected one, and his appointment expires with the presidential term in which he was named. This will put Venezuelan politics in limbo until the president’s status is resolved.

Syria
Forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad are fighting off rebel forces by restricting the countries freedom to access the internet and the policy is being met with heavy opposition and resistance from Syrians. Citizens are desperate to access the internet and are often using the country’s spotty cell phone connections and foreign aid to get online.

Turkey
A Syrian mortar hit Akcakale, Turkey which caused Turkey to invade the bordering country Syria, despite international opposition from the EU and Muslims. The border town of Akcakale has been deserted, blurring the geographical boundaries of the countries. International countries urge Turkey to avoid escalation and to prevent further casualties.

The University of Mississippi, better known as Ole Miss

This public college is known throughout the south for their athletics and southern charm. The only problem is that graduates of this school, are realizing the difficulty to find jobs located outside of Mississippi. Mississippi ranks low compared to other states on education and academic performance- among other standards such as quality of life, employment, crime, and average annual salaries. Students, now in debt from their student loans, are realizing that their undergraduate degree from Mississippi State may guarantee a life and career inside the state. The state has a reputation of being "backwards" in regards to equality, compared to more progressive and liberal states such as California.

The Rebels!

This isn't just speculation. The state of Mississippi is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina which devastated their Gulf Coast. The BP oil spill didn't help in their endeavors to improve the state's economy. With high crime rate, low test scores and average incomes, some parts of the state are still facing incredibly difficult economic times. It is ranked as one of the worst states to find a job in, with an unfortunate increasing unemployment rate. This rate correlates to the academic and educational abilities of the area. Harsh immigration laws also harm the state in regards to tax revenue and employment.
However, even with these facts, alumni such as U.S. Senator Trent Lott graduated from Ole Miss, as did William Faulkner. This school also has a spectacular law program which has graduated many effective lawyers and senators. Also, the location of the campus puts the school outside of some of the more rural and poverty stricken areas.
In addition, Ole Miss offers The Residential College South, which is a program that helps a diverse group of students to grow academically and socially. Another response to the school's critics comes from the college's undergrad honor society, which was chosen by Phi Beta Kappa and is known for its prestige. The campus' location puts it in walking distance from the only children's hospital in Mississippi. The school also recently added three new dorms, known as The Ridges. This will help house their growing student body. There is also a local skate park for those students who enjoy extreme sports such as skateboarding or rollerblading. These activities can be a great way to get an adrenaline boost and also ease the stress of school.
The Higgs Boson discovery took years of scientific advancement and drastic amounts of knowledge and dedication. This state school is responsible for researchers who helped make this advancement possible. UM is known for respectable degrees in Business Administration, Elementary Education, Finance, and Journalism. UM graduated a record breaking 112 pharmacists, showing the exceptional work of their Pharmaceutical College.
This goes to show that a student's life is what they decide to make of it. With motivation and hard-work, the scholar can rise out of desolation. The economy of the southern state of MS is still growing and their respect for equality is also progressing. The school of UM is certainly helping to bring Mississippi from out of the dust.
The Ole Miss Rebels play UCA on September 1st in Oxford for their season's opening football game.

"On behalf of knowledge and wisdom"
Founded: 1848
Campus Location: Oxford, MS
Mascot: Rebels
Football Stadium: Vaught Hemingway Stadium
Gym/ Weight Training Building: Turner Center
UM Website: www.olemiss.edu

Florida State University_FSU_Seminoles

The Florida State University is a highly populated school known for its warm beach parties and social atmosphere. Sciences, arts -such as theater and film, and engineering are major areas of study. The students are also highly active in supporting equal rights including the LGTBQ's. Even during the 60's students were protesting and voicing their opinions about racial integration and the involvement of the United States in Vietnam. Since then, FSU students; can be seen helping others in addition to standing up for their beliefs. Recently FSU students developed a website to help children's advocacy groups. Florida State students have always been opinionated and unyielding on their beliefs.

Nole-ympian Correspondents at the Olympic Games 2012

The college has recently made developments and improvements around campus as their student population swells and this includes the new Advocacy Center which has a delicious apple tree planted in front. The school also is finishing construction on its new Wellness Center, which is just another example of the renovations the school took over the summer. On the other side f campus, on the east side of the Union Courtyard, students can see the ongoing improvements to the buildings as it is almost completed. FSU hopes to have most of its renovations done before Seminole Sensation Week which occurs right before the fall, when freshman and other students gather to celebrate returning to school and being among friends and colleagues. Among other changes students can expect in the fall is located in the school's library which is now The Werkmeister Humanities Reading Room. The Werkmeister Humanities Reading Room is not longer a place for books but rather a collection of memorabilia and tributes which recognize and educate on the school's history and pride. Florida State had graduate students taking the bar exam the week of July 24th, a test which many students probably lost sleep over as they studied and reviewed. This school is constantly outgoing and impressing this blog by participating in activities including having professors write for the nationally acclaimed newspaper "The New York Time." Alum are also striving to set good examples for their undergraduate colleagues, including Leron Rogers who made it into Men's Book. If that isn't enough to impress any future college students, FSU professors recently helped in finding the Higgs boson particle as a researched with the highly intelligent scientists at CERN.
A rich history is found in The Seven Days of Opening Nights Festival which actually lasts much longer than a week. Artists and performers gather to entertain and dazzle audiences. The Festival was foudned in 1999. This college isn't without tarnish however. Who could forget the loss of Seminole Greg Reid from the FSU football team this year because he was asked to leave the college. Florida's official art museum, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, is operated by FSU. This comes as no surprise because of their remarkable music and arts program.
Florida State also sent 12 students to London, England to report on the 2012 Olympics. The student correspondents had much to say in their letter back to the school about the sporting events and also run a Tumblr.
No review of Florida State would complete without mentioning their nationally recognized Law Moot Court Team. Their court team took first prize at the 2012 Kaufman Memorial Securities Law Moot Court Competition.

Motto: Strength, Skill, Character
Founded: 1851
Campus Address: 600 W College Ave Tallahassee, FL 32306
School Phone Number: (850) 644-6200
Colors: Garnet, Gold
Nickname: Seminoles
Website: http://www.fsu.edu

College Sports: Meeting a Student-Athlete

When it comes to playing sports in college, no matter if it's football, baseball, soccer, track, or whatever, students realize that their athletic training will add stress to an already busy and unfamiliar schedule. Make sure the school offers the sport. Many smaller schools will not offer clubs such as lacrosse or ice-hockey. This is especially true with women's sports. Few freshmen make varsity level teams. A red shirt freshman is eligible to play for five years and not just four. For this reason, he just practices and gets to know the team for his first year. A red shirt freshman is not a freshman who made the roster but has to wait a year. This is how a fifth year senior happens on the collegiate sports level. Walk-on freshman to a well unified and arranged college sports team can be a difficult transition. Walk-on freshman play for the team without a scholarship. A scholarship to play college level guarantees your spot on the team.
College football brings in a lot of revenue for schools. Often students will be able to receive scholarships to attend the university if their performance is impressive enough. There are many different athletic divisions including the NCAA, WAC, and Ivy League. These divisions are based on region as well as school size and ability. Division one is the most competitive and expects a high level of performance and athletic talent from their players.
Baseball in college is nothing compared to football or basketball. This is obvious when college basketball goes through March Madness or when college football teams compete in the various bowl games. Collegiate sports are based on three divisions. There are also collegiate teams that compete outside these divisions and NCAA, and are usually more laid back and can even be taught by an instructor so it is a learning experience just as much as it is a competitive or training routine. Syracuse is a great football school.
We spoke with a college athlete who was attending a state school on a scholarship. He played varsity basketball and explained the differences between junior varsity and varsity. From what he said, it was obvious there was a large difference in the amount of athletic talent and contrast in the level of competition. The athlete told us that he was offered a larger scholarship to play football elsewhere, but he wanted to make sure that if he didn't make the big leagues, that at least he had his education to fall back on. He said sports were on his top three priorities in life. As we finished the interview with this gentleman, a few co-eds came up and started talking with Mr. Big Shot. The social advantages to performing well on a college team were obvious. Competition is very tight to get on the roster, but the training relaxes him when it comes time to study. Many athletes cannot handle the work load of strengthening their mind and bodies and end up having to make a decision between the two. This is why student athletes who maintain a high grade point average are well respected.
It is understood by most athletes that there is always a chance that their dreams of playing professionally won't happen. This is why they must make sure that their grades stay above a 3.0. If their academics fall below that, they run the risk of missing career opportunities, as well as ruining their education. Experience playing in high level sports, such as basketball, swimming, or track and field, demonstrates a student's ability to be above average by setting their minds to something and succeeding at a difficult task.
For readers who are more interested in the actual sport, rather than the extreme training and competition that comes with varsity level sports, an intramural division or club is recommended.
Student athletes often have difficulty managing their time. It is important to get enough rest to allow the body to heal itself. Playing sports in college, however, is the best and most common way of being able of making it to the professional stage of the sport. Online colleges do not offer their students chances that other colleges offer to get seen by prospective recruiters and drafters.
Many students are devastated when they realize they won't be able to play their favorite sport in college. Maybe it wasn't their favorite sport, but was a sport they thought they were the best in. Being cut from the team or being told that you aren't a good enough player for them to use can be crushing. The NCAA keeps sports rosters online and they can be found for decades in the past.
Athletes also run the risk of injury. If improper techniques or mechanics are used in sport a horrible accident could occur that would handicap a young person early on in life. Red shirts have the ability to come back and play for a fifth year if they take the entire season out. This is another great way to catch up and stay ahead academically. Fifth year senior athletes usually have a low-intensity academic schedule so they can train and practice longer and harder. Also, just like those who focus excelling in school, an athlete must get plenty of rest and take care of their body. This means no late night parties or shindigs. Student athletes, especially popular ones, are often like celebrities at their college. Their social life shines with other students who want to meet them.
College sports can be a great addition to a job resume especially if the interviewer also played that sport or was a fan of your team. College sports also help if the student is interested in working at a sporting goods store selling items and trading stories. Few freshmen make college teams.

College Cranium visits and reviews University of Cambridge

^{Cambridge Blue [*2]}

College Cranium wanted to review an international college and after much deliberation, a crew of three journalists including myself decided to go to England and to see what the University of Cambridge was all about. The reporters for College Cranium generally focus on institutions in the United States, particularly the Ivy Leagues, because of the schools give most excellent tours, and their reputation behooves them. Their were some difficulties that made our international visit more strenuous and less of a vacation then our earlier national college reviews, however, when we made it to Cambridge on College Open Day, our expectations were exceeded. _[*1]


Back on topic, College Cranium found that the University of Cambridge has the same prestigious reputation around England that the Ivy League schools had back home. This public university had many differences compared to the U.S.A., for example instead of presidents and vice-presidents, the school was run by a Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor. Another multifarious fact about Cambridge is its ancient establishment date. This school is over 500 years older than the oldest college (yes, Ivy League) in the States! Cambridge university, along with Oxford (future review pending from College Cranium!), created the Blue athletic award.
Cambridge boasts an incredibly large number of international students, both inside and outside the European Union. Students agree that self-motivation, passion, flexibility, and confidence are definitely required characteristics to succeed in your studies at Cambridge. Cambridge also boasts a 3 year requirement for students to receive their undergraduates degree. England also has much less student debt than the United States does. This student debt is caused by improper decisions such as to receive a student loan. College Cranium was impressed by the financial aid and support Cambridge offers. This fantastic international college felt as if their were thousands of clubs and organizations active on their campus. Students are told they are among thousands of intellectual thinkers all with common goals, although their area of study may differ. Cambridge has specific colleges for both bachelor of arts and bachelor of science. Theology, natural sciences, chemical engineering, and Asian and Middle Eastern studies are just a few of the courses offered to students who are lucky enough to attend Cambridge as an undergraduate. Cambridge also offers a graduate college. After a tour of the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge's Art Museum, we were astounded by the treasures and spectacular art swag found inside.

^[*1]To review this United Kingdom University, we renewed our visas and set our destination to Cambridge, England. Our passports were difficult to come by because we were outside of the European Economic Area. However, unlike Cambridge students who require a tier 4 visa, we did not need an O,P, or H visa from the United States and our passports were already sponsored. The problem was with British Airlines, however, and we experienced a delay while we waited for the U.K. to approve our short visit with their five tier visa system. All troubles aside, finally arriving in Cambridge was well worth the stress because of how beautiful the city was and how friendly the campus tour guide was.
Before the tour, we rested in an excellent hostel which resided further, away from the school than expected, but still slept well and awoke to a breakfast of crumpets and tea. Once making it to the campus, we were greeted by one of the nicest gents I've had the pleasure of gathering information and reviewing a college with.

College Cranium's University of Cambridge Swag Facts

School Motto: From here, light and sacred draughts
Founded: 1209
College Cranium Seal of Swag:
Notable Alumni: Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin (monkey swag), Jane Goodall, Stephen Hawking, John Madden (director)
Campus Location: Cambridge, England
Nation: (foreign/international) United Kingdom
Color: Cambridge Blue^[*2]
Team Athletics: The Sporting Blue
University of Cambridge Website: www.cam.ac.uk

College Cranium Reviews: Texas State University

Texas State University was a great school to visit. I was given a tour of the campus and it was hot outside, but students were beating the summer heat. I learned this school has gone by various institutional names starting with the Southwest Texas State Normal School, then it was renamed Southwest Texas State College, which was changed to Southwest Texas State University, and now the bobcats are proud to attend Texas State University. The college is not a research focused college, but it does offer a lot of graduate and ph.d study programs. Texas is a large and diverse state and that is exactly what can be found in the state's college. The universities campus sits in San Macros, and ideal location equidistant from San Antonio and Austin, TX. Their first football game the bobcats will play will be September first in Houston, Texas.

For families who meet certain financial requirements: that meaning their income is below a certain level, TSU offers the bobcat promise to help those dedicated students who want to further their education but aren't able to financially reach their goals because of their families poverty status.
Another means of financial support comes from their Retired Faculty and Staff Association Scholarship which greatly aids those who qualify.
Texas State refers to its alumni and fans as the gold standard. A play on words that represents the quality and respect their loyal supporters.

TSU has many Greek houses including Alpha Tau Omega, Sigma Nu, Delta Zeta, and Kappa Sigma. The state college also offers an honors, graduate, health professions, and education colleges; along with a prestigious business college known as the McCoy College of Business Administration.
TSU ended their long rivalry with Nicholls State University, however, the bobcats won't have long to rest because a fresh born competition with the University of Texas at San Antonio is set to take place in the Western Athletic Conference this year!
Don't worry, because athletes must perform academically as well. This led to the Athletic Academic Conference being establish which offers help to student athletes by providing a positive learning environment and ensuring their long term success if the student-athlete is not able to make it professionally.
In conclusion my visit to Texas State University was well worth withstanding the San Macros summer heat! The atmosphere is vibrant and the teachers and educators are truly dedicated to their job and invested in the success of their students. Students recognize TSU is not the biggest party school but it is extremely affordable especially considering the quality of education students receive. Even so, students say there is a party to be found almost every night and a degree from this college is very credible and useful.

Mascot: Boko the Bobcat (TSU Bobcats)
Motto: "The noblest search is the search for excellence."
Founded: 1899
Campus Location: San Marcos, Texas
School Colors: Maroon, Old Gold
Ivy League: No. Joined the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) on July 2012
Alumni: George Strait, Bill Paxton
Website: www.txstate.edu

New York University Newspaper

New York University has one of largest student housing programs in the United States with over 20 housing units for students. Located in New York, the campus and housing property is rich in culture and scenery. I had an opportunity to visit the campus recently and was impressed by the large statues and beautiful campus.
On my first visit to NYU I found a newspaper called "Washington Square News" sitting on an empty bench. The newspaper is published daily to the students. NYU has many forms of news media including their daily blog, a comedy magazine titled: The Plague, as well as a couple of scholarly publications written by students known as The Minetta Review and Washington Square Review.

As I was reading the paper a student stopped by and asked if I realized the talent it took to publish the WSN. He informed me that he was a writer for the paper and that the WSN was independent from the university. This means that all the advertisements went to cover the price of publishing and printing their school's news. Many notable writers and broadcasters used to write for the the Washington Square News, a newspaper that first began in 1973. The writer was very enthusiastic about his sections in the news and he was easy to get along with. When we said our good-byes I realized that he was very mature and intelligent for his age. New York will do this to young freshman, it will make them more confident and give them to the courage to excel in their work.

The school spirit is vibrant at NYU and the students come together for traditions and socializing. Because of the location of the school, many feel it is not a 'college town' however, many celebrities have been spotted by students, as both the colleague and the famous go about their daily routines.

Student organizations are a huge part of NYU and students also enjoy the traditions that have been celebrated since the schools founding such as 'midnight breakfast', the violet ball, and Apple Fest. The greek life at NYU is diverse and enjoyable. It began with Psi Upsilon in 1837 and many other fraternities and sororities have joined since then.

Motto: To persevere and to excel
Founded: 1831
Ivy League: No
Campus: New York City, NY
School Newspaper: Washington Square News
School Colors: White, Violet
Mascot:Bobcat

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, or UPENN, is a academic institution which excels in all areas of college life including campus living, academics, athletics, and student organizations. This may be a result of the fact that Benjamin Franklin founded this college. The school of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania has created some of the most brilliant and talented doctors and nurses, which explains why their hospitals are ranked in the top 10 in the United States. The arts, athletics, research, healthcare, news, and libraries at UPENN are envied by other colleges. UPENN also has an active international study program. Almost a quarter of all PENN Quakers are involved in a fraternity or sorority, giving this Philadelphia college a strong and effective Greek life.
The University of Pennsylvania spends over $700,000,000 in research and development annually! Known for their talents in business (Wharton), law, and medicine, University of Pennsylvania also offers many public outreach programs. UPENN also has a museum known as the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. Their schools of nanotechnology, bio-engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering are highly ranked and extremely challenging and prestigious areas of study in UPENN's college of engineering.
Traditions at UPENN include "hey day" and throwing toast onto Franklin Field. Like many other ivy league schools, University of Pennsylvania has many traditions and legends rooted in their deep history.
They have a famous campus media, which traces its roots back over a century. UPENN also has various athletic and recreation activities such as soccer and track and field. They also have a respected arts and culture program, the greatly appreciated community outreach programs, and also well-loved residential halls. Students enjoy dining at the University of Pennsylvania as well as the spiritual aspect that UPENN develops in addition to religion. The religious groups at University of Pennsylvania include Jewish and Catholics.
UPENN has a gracious financial aid program, ensuring that those who are dedication enough can become graduates of this Ivy League college. Their alumni include poets, presidents, and influential businessman, as well as the brightest and intellectual thinkers in fields of medicine, law, healthcare, or religion.

Motto: Laws without morals are in vain
Founded: 1740
Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA
School Colors: Blue, Red
Athletic Division: NCAA Division I
Mascot: Quakers
Ivy League: Yes
Notable Alumni: Donald Trump, William Henry Harrison, William Carlos Williams
Website: www.upenn.edu

Princeton University

What used to be known as the College of New Jersey from 1746 to 1896, Princeton University has allowed their New Jersey location to be detrimental to their students education, athletics, or college experience. Despite the infamous reputation of the Jersey Shore and fellow New Jersey locals, Princeton, as the fourth oldest college in the United States, separates their students from the dirty and immoral locals by staying true to their roots of tradition, respect, and honor.
The student-athlete's at Princeton know the expectation they are expected to live up to and respect. Princeton offers intramural, club, and both women's and men's sports teams. As a member of the Ivy League, Princeton is extremely competitive, dedicated, and talented when it comes to both athletics and academics. Tickets to their athletic events sell out quickly and their stadiums can seat the entire student body as well as over 20,000 loyal Princeton fans. Princeton athletics is specifically known for their powerful football and lacrosse teams.
Their campus includes many historic and old buildings including the [1] McCarter Theatre which receives donations from Thomas McCarter as well as other alumni to support the student performers of Prince, [2] Nassau Hall (the oldest building on their campus), and the famous [3] Princeton University Art Museum which holds over 70,000 treasures.
Around the buildings on campus, one can see the respects made to former graduating classes in the form of Ivy Stones, which pay their respects to older classes.
Ivy stones are just one of the many traditions and legends of the historic Princeton Campus. The FitzRandolph Gate's, known by all students, is rumored to curse undergraduates into never graduating if they leave campus under its arches. Princeton brings true meaning to the term "Ivy" League, by having many buildings covered in the legendary ivy. The ivy covered buildings, prestigious athletics, and competitive acceptance rate make Princeton students have an unforgettable college experience.

Princeton Tigers!

Motto: Under God's Power She Flourishes
Founded: 1746
Campus Location Princeton, NJ
Colors: Black, Orange
Ivy League: Yes
Tuition: approx. $38,000
Mascot: Tigers
Notable Alumni: Woodrow Wilson, Brooke Shields, 2008 First Lady Michelle Obama
Website: www.princeton.edu

Dartmouth College

Another Ivy League university, Dartmouth College, has a rich history of competitiveness and academic advancement. Their campus is classic with an atmosphere of excellence. Their alumni are known to do excel after graduating. Dartmouth has one of the highest paying average yearly incomes for their graduates, who are known to become CEO's, professional sports players, and even vice presidents of the United States. Dartmouth teaches their students to become over achievers in all aspects of education, which explains why their grads do amazing work with their knowledge in education, government, and business careers.
Dartmouth takes pride in their student organizations. Whether students participate in research work, student government, or one of their famous religious and spiritual groups, the classroom is only one aspect of the Dartmouth experience.
The academic prestige that Dartmouth is known for is grouped into specific learning areas such as the Thayer School of Engineering, Tuck School of Business, or the Geisel School of Medicine. Dartmouth is an ivy league school, in addition to their competitive varsity athletic program, the school also offers intramural and other outdoor programs for their luckily accepted students.
The campus life includes a country club located in Hanover for a rich and cultural social life. The etiquette of students is expected to be socially acceptable for their high class and prestigious culture. New Hampshire is the perfect state for students to enjoy skiing and also horse riding. Dartmouth has a program known as the Morton Farm Riding Center, where those who enjoy horseback riding can enjoy trails and beautiful scenery. Night life is another aspect of socializing for the Moose, and they frequent local bars and restaurants in Hanover such as the famous 'Taylor's Restaurant'.
Despite some students who say they didn't enjoy the town of Hanover as much as they enjoyed on-campus activities at Dartmouth, all students can agree the faculty, teachers, athletics, and fellow colleagues assure them that they made the right decision to attend Dartmouth.

Motto: The voice of one crying in the wilderness
Founded: December 1769
Campus: Hanover, New Hampshire
Color: 'Dartmouth' Green
Mascots (Unofficial): Moose, Keggy the Keg
Ivy League: Yes
Notable Alumni: Nelson Rockefeller, C. Michael Armstrong
Website: Dartmouth.edu

Columbia University

Columbia University is an historic and religious school. Their motto actually comes from Psalm 36:9 of the Christian Bible. Columbia's schools include two different religious Seminaries: Jewish Theological Seminary and Union Theological Seminary. Columbia's academics are highly respected especially their Liberal Arts and Bio-medical Engineering programs. Columbia's students are expected to be intelligent, mature, self-motivated, and above all respectful. New York City is a vibrant and culturally diverse area to study, though some students feel unsafe because of its location to Harlem.
Either way, the highly populated city and surrounding cities of Columbia, give their students excellent opportunities for networking and developing important and often life-long connections.
Columbia is the fifth oldest college in the United States and the oldest college in New York. Their law school is prestigious, competitive, challenging, and respected. The professors and students share a remarkable connection because they are both dedicated to improving their knowledge and advancing their unmatched research. With a small student-to-teacher ration, learning is often personalized which leads to a high percentage of successful graduates. Columbia grew from a small King’s College to the renowned and respected research university that is today.
Columbia has taught some of the brightest minds in neuroscience, engineering, arts, and journalism which has advanced various areas of the research field. Columbia has over 200 organizations besides athletics for their students to get involved with including various on and off campus activities. The students organization at Columbia are renowned for their ability to improve the quality of the college experience. Student at Columbia University are expected to be self-motivated and highly dedicated and this gives them social and academic freedom around campus. After graduating, Columbia Lions can be expected to be a part of a highly loyal alumni group and can expect to earn a lot of money.

Motto: In Thy light shall we see light
Founded: 1754
Campus Location: Manhattan, NY
Colors: White, Columbia Blue, White
Mascot: Lions
Athletics: NCAA Division 1
Tuition: (approx) $41, 000 a year
Ivy League: Yes
Website: www.columbia.edu

Harvard University

Harvard University is a name that represents prestige, honor, tradition, and academic excellence. The professors are incredibly challenging all while the students enjoy the tremendous challenge of their courses. A degree from Harvard sets you apart from other college graduates. Harvard's two schools: Harvard College of Medicine and the Harvard Law School are almost cliche in their competitiveness and overly demanding course agenda.
Harvard University is a member of the Ivy League. Harvard is so elite that Amy Poehler and other celebrities frequently make speeches to the student body. Their graduating class is incredibly equipped with the tools needed for success. Their alumni offer nation wide support. Few citizens have the financial means, the knowledge, or the blood-line to make it into Harvard, which is why Harvard is known for their letters of rejection.
Harvard in its early years kept women segregated however the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study which had once been all females, became a part of the larger Harvard college. Harvard even has recently had a women president.
Harvard graduates have high expectations to live up to because many will just say that all college knowledge is the same. However, given their academic excellence and facbook origins, it is doubtful that a Harvard graduate will find himself in a difficult time no matter what his degree or focus of study.


Motto: "Truth"
Established: 1636 (Oldest Ivy League School)
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Color(s): Crimson
Athletic Division: NCAA I and Ivy League

Brown University

The Gates of Brown University

In 1764 when Brown was established, it became of the first academies of higher education in the New England area. Brown is an Ivy League School with especially competitive English and History courses. The college also offers one of the most challenging medical programs via the Warren Alpert Medical School. Brown's classes are small which aids in specialized learning and research. Graduates often focus on International Relations and Affairs, Economics, Science, and Biological Science majors.
Students and faculty both view Thayer Street as the heart of the social life for Brown colleagues. Their is always something to do there and it shows the spirit of a college town, where the students play and party just as hard as they study.
Brown is known for their "Spring Weekend" held every year which epitomizes their elite athletic, academic, and social classes. The admission for Brown is incredibly competitive and Brown University only accepts the best of the best students. Students who are disciplined enough to succeed in the challenging environment brown offers.
Outside of the classroom, students are engaged in all sorts of extra activities around Brown's beautiful campus. Brown is also complimented on its well served cafeteria and students are always pleased with the quality of their meals and on-campus residency.

Motto: In God We Hope
Location: Providence, RI
Colors: White, Seal Brown, Cardinal Red
Athletics: NCAA I Conference
Notable Alumni: John D. Rockefeller Jr., John F. Kennedy Jr., and Ted Turner
Brown University Official Site

Yale University

The Yale Bulldogs are confident, prestigious, educated, and ambitious. Founded in 1701, in May 2012 Yale University will celebrate their 311th graduation. Yale is a member of the Ivy League, the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) as well as the Association of American Universities (AAU). Yale is ultimately three colleges, the undergraduate college, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and also thirteen professional colleges.
Yale has a rich and unique history being such a mature college. They excel in research, management, and mathematics. Their graduation rate is above 95% which is amazing for a university with classrooms as small as twenty-five students.
Yale has a specific scholarship and grant program for financial aid. For tuition or dissertation support, independent projects, or research internships Yale offers financial aid in the form of Fellowships, which are unique to Yale. Fellowships can also be awarded for formal coursework and studying language outside of the United States. Community and Public Works are another way to help pay Yale's expensive tuition by collecting a potential Fellowship.
Yale is known for its campus wide parties and dances in addition to the night-life in Downtown New-Haven. Fraternities and Greek life are one way to spend a Friday or Saturday night, but the bars often do local specials for Yale students.

Location: New Haven, Connecticut
Motto: Light and truth
Rivals: Harvard
Attended: George W. Bush, John Kerry, and Meryl Streep
Tuition Cost (2012): $53,070
Tuition Costs are estimates and may not be 100% accurate