FLORIDA STATE

by Caitlin Peshek

Florida is home to over 900 freshwater springs. Many of them are just a day trip away from Tallahassee. So, if you find yourself bored in the sweltering heat on campus this summer, here’s the solution. Below are just some of the springs I got to adventure to last summer. 

Blue Spring State Park (Orange City)

This place is known for manatees. Unfortunately I didn’t see any while I was there. This one is pretty far from Tallahassee, but totally worth it! 

Ginnie Springs (High Springs)

Ginnie is definitely one of the most well-known springs in Florida. Most people go to camp, which I recommend because it is pretty expensive just to go and swim. Instead of a vehicle fee, it is per person. Lazy rivers are my personal favorite, so I really enjoyed this place.  

Madison Blue Spring State Park (Lee)

This spring is a hidden gem, even though it is only an hour away. Madison Blue is no doubt the most beautiful spring I have ever visited. The spring feeds into the Withlacooche River, which is nice if you are not a fan of the cold spring temperatures. The only downside of this one is swimming is the only activity to do there. 

Jackson Blue Springs (Marianna)

I believe Jackson Blue is one of the most developed springs I have been too. It is newly renovated, with slides and plenty of sitting areas. It is a great option if you aren’t into the rural woodsy-ness of most springs. 

Morrison Springs (DeFuniak Springs)

FREE. I repeat it is free to visit this place. Although it is not very large, Morrison is worth the visit. There is even a little beach area to lay out and tan. Not to mention, the water is stunning. 

The Blue Hole, Wacissa River (Monticello)

Another hidden gem that is extremely close to Tallahassee. The Blue Hole is located along the Wacissa River, so you have to canoe or kayak to get to it. Canoeing the river was so much fun, its definitely worth the cost. You might even see some alligators along the river. 

Ichetucknee Springs (Fort White)

A classic. Ichetucknee was the first spring I ever visited, which might be why I like it so much. Floating down the river is super relaxing. You can either tube down the whole river, which takes about an hour, or you can start at the mid point. There are also rope swings and little areas to stop in along the way. 

I definitely recommend buying your own tube and taking it with you when you go. I just bought a cheap one and it cost less than renting one at the springs. All of these springs are worth paying a visit to this summer. I can’t wait to see which ones I end up at next.

written by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

Retail Merchandising and Product Development. Most of us have heard of the major or even know someone in it, but aren’t quite sure what it means. I interviewed Colleen Evers to learn what its like to be a RMPD major and intern at Coach in NYC. 

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Spirit Animal: Bald Eagle -- it represents the greatest country in the world, America and it is quick, brave and strong -- all things I aspire to be. 

Daily caffeine: One bottle of the vanilla Starbucks Frappuccino on the way to work and a Diet Coke after lunch.

1. Could you tell us a little bit more about the RMPD major at Florida State? 

“RMPD is really cool because you get the background of a “fashion” degree, but you’re learning the business side of it as well. The major itself is very unique because it is the only “Business Fashion” major in the state. Every one of our teachers has a background working in the industry, so it really prepares you for the real world.

The range of classes really helps you hone in on what you want to do afterwards as well. During your last semester you’re in an internship block. All of the classes are condensed into two months, January and February. After finals, you go off into your required internship for the next two months. Getting that real world experience before graduating is really helpful.” 

2. What drew you to the major? 

“The week before my freshman orientation I sat down on my family room couch with my parents and we pulled up the list of majors available at FSU. Going down the list, RMPD was the one that stuck out to me the most. I’ve always loved fashion, but never had the artistic ability to design, so having the business background of it was perfect.”

3. Describe a day in the life of a Coach intern. 

“It’s nothing like what you’d expect. The first day I got here was two days before a huge deadline, so I was completely thrown into everything. It was amazing. 

I was able to sit in on one of the color review meetings, which was insanely cool. You know the part in The Devil Wears Prada where they’re talking about cerulean blue and “how very different the two belts looked?” That is what a color review meeting is like, but in the coolest way. To know that I am a part of the team that completely decides all of the colors for everything that goes through production in Coach is phenomenal.”

4. What do you believe is the most valuable lesson you have learned from your internship? 

“Expect the unexpected, be a sponge and go above and beyond. 

Things change around here constantly, so you’ve always got to be on your feet ready for the next task. Learn everything that you can while you are in an internship. I’ve remembered the color names from the amount of times I’ve organized them and people notice. Being able to be the person that people come to even though you’re “just an intern” is a pretty awesome feeling.” 

5. Do you have any tips for students trying to get internships, especially in the fashion industry? 

“Apply everywhere! I probably sent 30 emails throughout Christmas break and the beginning of the semester. Don’t get discouraged if they don’t email back, but be persistent as well. If you really want it, follow up with an email a week or so after. People notice that and like they that are being pursued. 

Sometimes traveling for Spring Break just doesn’t work out, but that doesn’t mean your week off has to be a bust. Check out these quick trips to make the most of your Tallahassee stay-cation!

Stop 1: The Tallahassee Museum

Zip-lining 60 feet off the ground is an exciting way to escape the Tallahassee routine without having to leave! The Tallahassee Museum offers adventure, nature and wildlife, only 12 minutes from campus.

Stop 2: Wakulla Springs

Beat the heat at Wakulla Springs, only thirty minutes from campus! You can lounge on the beach, show off your diving skills, or explore on a boat tour.

Stop 3: St. George Island

Only an hour and forty minutes away, St. George Island is the perfect place for a quick trip to the beach! 

Stop 4: Landis Green

Laying out on Landis is an easy way to enjoy the beautiful spring weather, and you won’t have trouble finding the perfect spot. Bonus points if you bring your pets!

Stop 5: Thomasville, GA

Thomasville is only forty-five minutes away, making it an ideal location for an afternoon trip. Spend the day shopping on Main street, and make sure to check out Jonah’s Fish & Grits for lunch!

Stop #6: Lake Ella

by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

When FSU scores a touchdown

When you sleep over 8 hours on a school night 

When you received your acceptance letter to FSU

When your friend makes you take a snap before class for the 3rd time to get the lighting just right 

When you get a table on the first floor of Stroz

When you finish your last final

by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

Finding a table at Club Stroz is likely causing you as much stress as your actual midterms. Follow my coffee shop study guide to find the alternative thats right for you! PSA: I am no coffee expert, but I call ‘em like a see ‘em.

All Saints (a.k.a the night owl): All Saints is conveniently located on Railroad Ave and provides what college students need most: time. The eclectic cafe is open 24/7, making it the perfect place to pull an all-nighter. After just a few visits, the mismatched furniture and busy decor will be something you grow to love. (P.S. they also have vegan food)

Catalina Cafe (a.k.a. the cute one): Catalina Cafe is a mix of sweet and sassy. This local cafe has 3 locations, but most students frequent the one on Gaines. They have an array of delicious specialty drinks and fresh baked treats, and plenty of outside seating for those sunny Tallahassee days.  

Calvin’s Coffee House (a.k.a. the hidden gem): Many walk by Calvin’s, but most never notice it or venture inside. Well, you should. Calvin’s is a great place to study while you’re on campus, especially if you want to escape the crowds at Starbucks or Dunkin. The environment is casual and the couches comfy. Plus, you don’t even have to give up your hard-won campus parking spot.  

Black Dog Cafe (a.k.a. the conversationalist): Black Dog is fantastic, the customer service is great. On the weekends, they turn off the wifi to encourage conversation without distractions. They have two locations, Lake Ella and Railroad Square, but I prefer the Lake Ella location because of the view. Another plus is they are open later than most coffee shops; definitely worth checking out. 

Lucky Goat Coffee Co. (a.k.a. the fairest of them all): Almost everyone in Tallahassee has heard of Lucky Goat, or seen their stickers on restaurant windows in town. They are serious about their beans, and it shows. Although the location is farther from campus, the drive is worth it. The shop is cozy and chic, with plenty of seating inside and out. (P.S. Their cold brew is amazing)

RedEye Coffee (a.k.a. the chai tea queen): RedEye feels like your neighborhood coffee shop, with friendly staff and a warm atmosphere. There’s plenty of study room and the location is a quick drive from campus.They also make a mean chai tea. 

Admissions may have told you all about what Florida State has to offer, but below is your insider guide on how to make the most out of #FSUPreview.

Where to take pictures:

Westcott Fountain

Landis Green

Unconquered Statue

Legacy Walk

Northwest Entrance Gate (Call St)

Where to eat:

Chili’s

Union Food Court

Chick Fil A

Buildings to explore: 

William Johnston

Dodd Hall

Museum of Fine Art

Westcott

Claude Pepper Center 

Written by Caitlin Peshek (@cpeshh)

Not having a car in college can be a struggle, but why fight for parking when there’s so much to do within walking distance of campus. #ExploreFSU and the Tallahassee area on foot and check out the following places this week. (All walking times are mapped from the Ogelsby Union). 

1. Have a picnic at Doug Burnett Park on a Sunday afternoon: Burnett Park is the perfect place to relax outside while still being in the center of town. When you’re there, write on the “Before I Die...” wall located in the park. Walking time: 24 minutes

2. Grab a cup of coffee and get some homework done at a local cafe: Some of my favorites include All Saints Cafe, Catalina Cafe, and Calvin’s Coffee House. Walking time: 12 to 22 minutes

3. College Town is a go to option no matter the time of day: College Town has a lot to offer students including dining, shopping, and nightlife. Brooklyn Water Bagel’s coffee is my personal favorite in the area (get the Cubsta)! Walking time: approx. 15 minutes

4. Spend an evening with your friends at First Friday: Railroad Square Art Park, just off of Gaines Street is a vibrant and growing area of town. There are cafes, shops, art galleries and more in the area, ranging from rock climbing to a comic book store. On the first Friday of every month, the stores and restaurants in and around Railroad Square stay open late for people to enjoy. The event includes art, live music, food, and shopping. It is definitely something that you should add to your “before I graduate” bucket list. Walking time: 28 minutes

5. Jam out to some local entertainment: There are many performances to see on campus and the area nearby. These include shows by the School of Theatre, School of Dance, College of Fine Arts, and various groups on campus. Local and non-local bands also have gigs around town almost every day. Some venues to check out are the Side Bar Theatre off of Railroad Avenue and Club Downunder on campus. Walking time: 1 to 20 minutes