Are noisy roommates and barking dogs minimizing valuable study time? The Daily Aztec understands, which is why it’s compiled a handy list of the best places to study within a 5-mile radius of campus. Grab a latte or croissant and relax at one of these five comfortable cafés, all of which offer free Wi-Fi.
Blooming bar Noble Experiment reminisces of 1920s speakeasies
Nestled on a corner of an inconspicuous downtown street, The Neighborhood restaurant has a hidden gem tucked deep inside hoping not to be found. Cloaked by a hidden door composed of stacked kegs, the secret bar Noble Experiment is unveiled by a welcoming hostess awaiting patrons by first name.
These small seeds often get overlooked but provide an abundance of benefits
Ignoring quick and cheap fast-food can be tough for average college students who carry exhausting schedules and empty wallets. Flaxseeds, however, can be a simple solution for those looking to lead a healthier lifestyle with little time and money to spare.
The experiences of an SDSU student studying abroad in Sweden
After traveling for nearly 48 hours with my iPod nano as my only companion, my “fadder,” Kicki greeted me with an ecstatic smile as I stepped off the train and into the snowy town of Orebro, Sweden. Before I go any further, let me explain the term “fadder.” This is a student of a host university who welcomes foreign exchange students into the community by insuring their comfort and understanding of the culture.
St. Patrick's Day San Diego events
Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations bring San Diego buckets of beer and gargantuan amounts of everything green for Irish and non-Irish celebrators alike. Many Americans may remember the fear of being pinched in elementary school if they didn’t wear green on this holiday, so don’t forget to sport this color to all St. Patrick’s Day events. With drinking, dancing, parades and parties, this St. Patrick’s Day is bound to bring luck to many San Diegans.
A couple is going on their third date. They never thought they’d find each other so amazing. After the movies, one of them decides to take it a step further. He decides to confess his feelings and gives hints about wanting to take the relationship to a physical level. The other person is surprised and wants to reciprocate the feelings, but is hesitant. If she gets intimate with him she may have to disclose that she has syphilis.
It can be an uncomfortable and painful situation — having genital warts and admitting having the infection to a sexual partner. A few months ago, there were only a few ways to prevent the human papillomavirus in men other than abstinence. But in October of last year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine Gardasil for the prevention of genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11 for males 9 to 26 years old.
Workout videos prove an alternative to going to the gym
It is common knowledge to students that going to the Aztec Recreation Center during the day is sure to cause a headache. The lines for equipment are almost as long as Salad Sensations during the lunch rush. Students who have fitness on the mind with no time to wait around for a stint on the elliptical machine should consider the less expensive and more convenient alternative — fitness videos.
Tequila 101 and tasting are a twice a month event at El Vitral Restaurant and Tequila Lounge
Stop suppressing that gag reflex when gulping down a shot of tequila. This alcohol is no longer counterpart to Taco Tuesday or a necessity when getting drunk on Friday nights. Images of popular tequilas such as José Cuervo or Patrón may come to mind when thinking of this alcohol, but El Vitral Restaurant and Tequila Lounge removes any preconceived notions of this beverage.
Hamilton's Tavern is packed with locals and good bear, making this a place for everyone
Lost among the sea of dive bars in the South Park area is a tiny pub that has become a local favorite. Compared to others, Hamilton’s Tavern on 30th Street is a bar with tons of flavor. Hamilton’s has an enormous selection of beers along with quality in-house bar food to create an atmosphere similar to “Cheers.”
Amateur and professional autocross riders race on the weekends
The cones start to fly as the car’s brakes lock. The driver’s adrenaline races while dozens of eyes watch the car make the turn and sprint faster toward the finish line, desperately trying to save as much time as possible. And so goes a typical scene at one of the many local autocross events.
Hiking preparedness in all conditions and circumstances
The U.S. landscape is cut out of intimidating skyscrapers, rolling, well-trimmed farm fields and ambitious mountain highways, which eventually yield to city buildings. Yet in each of these environments there exists an appeal to the country’s open, empty or uncharted spaces — a staple of the American psyche.
Multiple factors go into decisions about getting back into an old relationship
Well, it happened. It’s the news no one ever sees coming, until it finally comes — getting dumped. As anyone who’s ever been through this knows, it can be incredibly hard to let go. So difficult that some don’t choose to try — instead, they try to win back their significant other.
Astrology and zodiac signs shouldn't be used to predict relationship compatibility
“Hey baby, what’s your sign?” Most have heard this classic pick up line multiple times. Although some people do find sign compatibility to be reliable, it is not something to base a relationship on.
People encouraged to donate 10 inches of hair for a good cause
Imagine chopping off 10 inches of hair. All the years spent styling, coloring or growing it out — gone. For women, cutting off their hair may make them feel as though they lost a sense of femininity, and many people feel as though they need their hair to complete their individuality. But when contemplating whether or not to cut off inches of hair, they are calmed by the thought that it will one day grow back.
Fitness footwear aids weight loss and promotes healthy lifestyle
For many students, starting a workout regimen for Spring Break raises the question of which shoes, or no shoes, to wear. This decision should be based on personal comfort, intensity of the workout and which type guarantees the least injuries and joint problems. The main goal of increased exercise is to gain muscle and improve body health, — so finding the right footwear is essential.
For those who will soon graduate, the real world is an impending dark cloud looming on the horizon. Not only will it block out the sun of sleeping in late and beer pong, it will also be raining student loan bills. Students who have secured future employment can relax. But for most, job prospects are a serious concern, complicated by imminent student loan payments.
There are few moments more precious for people than their first kiss, wedding day or seeing a smile stretch across their newborn baby’s face. But for those in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, these special moments are lost in the void of a fading memory. As the fourth leading cause of death in San Diego, Alzheimer’s is a topic worth talking about — and on Saturday, that is just what San Diegans were doing.
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System intends to make one of the largest cutbacks in MTS history this month. Budget shortfalls have resulted in the agency’s choice to radically reduce public transportation, specifically MTS bus services.
Like many San Diego State students, criminal justice senior Marjorie Calvillo begins her mornings at 6 a.m. She makes breakfast, gets ready for work and heads out the door. But before clocking in to work at the SDSU Children’s Center, she walks her 4-year-old son to his classroom down the hall.
A professor can be an adviser, a confidant, an inspiration and a friend. Students often look to their professors to lead them through their academic and personal experiences in college. But while some students stay after class, visit a professor’s office hours regularly and become involved in their professor’s academic and personal lives, other students keep their distance.
Apathy is not a term to be associated with Caitlin Seandel. Like many young women at San Diego State, she has a variety of hobbies. Some of these include reading, hanging out with friends and playing intramural kick ball. However, what makes Seandel noticeable is that this women studies and international security and conflict resolution junior is also an activist.
The rows of plaques hanging on Dr. Shirley Weber’s office walls only hint at the enormity of her accomplishments. As a professor at San Diego State since 1972, Weber has been actively involved in multiple campus committees including the Academic Senate and the College of Arts and Letters Personnel Committee.
Living on a college budget and saving money at the same time is not always easy. Whether the money is going toward college tuition, books or a savings account, one of the few ways to save money or stretch the budget is to stop eating out and spend more time buying groceries to dine in.
Students are educated about organics with a free meal at Scripps Cottage
With tuition rates on the rise, San Diego State students understand the phrase “starving college student.” Between rent and school fees, sometimes it can feel as though there’s not much money left for the necessities. However, thanks to environmental groups on campus such as the Associated Students Green Love Committee, Green Campus interns and the SDSU Center for Regional Sustainability, Aztecs can now satisfy both parts: the student and the stomach within them.
Whether you celebrated Mardi Gras in your own neighborhood, downtown, at a house party or just at home studying for school, it was hard to avoid the Mardi Gras hype. What many don’t realize is Mardi Gras is not just a one-day celebration in New Orleans, which is the epicenter of the celebration.
Testing new water sports, shopping at local craft vendors and sipping margaritas in a hammock are all typical activities on a pristine and private beach in Labadee, Haiti. Although this country may never be the same considering the Jan. 12 earthquake, which flattened Port-au-Prince, Royal Caribbean International cruise line has been continuing with business as usual.
Friends are there for you through thick and thin. They are there to deter you from hooking up with the wrong people and are willing to pick you up from the airport when you “just had to get out of San Diego for the weekend.” But almost everyone has, or has had, one friend who is toxic.
iPeriod, iMaxipad, iTampon and iPadWithWings are a few names this newest techno toy has been called. Since its Jan. 27 announcement, Apple’s latest and hottest gadget, the iPad tablet, has been spurned with overused jokes of feminine hygiene products.
Strumming the right chord depends on picking the right kind of guitar
Music is everywhere. It’s in the whistling of the wind, in the trickles of a flowing river, in the tapping of restless feet — but more importantly, it’s in the hearts of musicians. Modern bands continuously use augmented drum beats and amplified acoustics for songs. Whether it’s a passion-charged strum on an electric or a low-powered pluck on an acoustic, the sound of a guitar pulls the heartstrings of even the dullest souls.
76 different mouthwatering 'Cups' made from quality and organic ingredients
Walking into Cups is like stepping into a stylish, retro diner. This eco-friendly La Jolla lounge serves more than decorated cupcakes. From the milk to the flour, all the ingredients are bought from local farmers, ensuring dessert fans will enjoy the most organic eats in town.
As Kermit the Frog once so eloquently put it, “It’s not easy being green.” And it isn’t. Experts are thinking of new ways to save energy and resources so quickly that at times keeping up with all that’s going on seems impossible, let alone remember to bring reusable bags into Target. However, it doesn’t always have to be so complicated. Take a small first step: Have some breakfast.
San Diego has a plethora of places to celebrate Mardi Gras
Forget Taco Tuesday; today, bigger celebration is in order: Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras is finally here, and with a city like San Diego for a playground, there’s no shortage of parties to attend. Grab a mask, throw on some beads and get ready to flash some … smiles.
Celebrators of Lent traditionally give things up for 40 days
Tonight, many people will be dancing and drinking in the streets of San Diego for the Mardi Gras celebration. While Mardi Gras may be a fun-filled evening of overindulgence, it is also a reminder that Lent starts tomorrow. Many people will spend the next 40 days giving up something to represent the time Jesus Christ spent in the wilderness fasting.
Dating excitement and intimacy shouldn't mask important sex questions
Sexually transmitted diseases and infections remain a major public health challenge in the United States. There are approximately 19 million new STD and STI infections reported each year and nearly half of those are contracted from people 15 to 24 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Relationships are challenging by nature, but dating someone whose friends and family don’t approve can make bonding with a new partner even more difficult. After finding that special person who you enjoy spending time with and who also appreciates your company, introducing him or her to your family can be very exciting.
MISTAKE #4: Trying To Buy Her Affection. The situation: You took a woman out to a nice dinner, bought her gifts and flowers, and she still rejected you for someone else who didn’t treat her even half as well. How do you explain this?
A girl's excuse to lavish themselves and delve into sweet bliss of singleness
For many, Valentine’s Day has become a holiday they anxiously await, painfully dread or are indifferent toward. But Feb. 14 is not a day exclusively for couples. In Mexico, this date is known as “El Día del Amor y la Amistad,” celebrating both love and friendship. So leave the “I hate Valentine’s Day” attitude at home and make a date with a friend or a group of friends.
San Diego's alternative scene gives singles reason not to avoid the holiday
Put aside the feelings of dread and enjoy Valentine’s Day this year. San Diego recognizes the Hallmark-manufactured holiday isn’t only for couples anymore. With events taking place all around the city targeted toward singles, there’s no excuse not to join the festivities.
It’s more than just a title on your Facebook profile. Being single to some is a way to experience freedom before settling down with another individual for years on end. Now, for some people, Valentine’s Day is deemed exclusively for lovers. Girls have this day marked with an “X” made entirely out of hand-drawn hearts and smileys. But what do you do as a single guy on Feb. 14?
Many people this time of year often grumble to the tune of “I don’t want to be single on Valentine’s Day again.” Yet, being single on this day can prove to be a lot better for the ones flying solo than those swooning with anticipation for this overrated holiday of lust.
Many students strive to be physically fit. With the help of high-tech fitness gadgets, staying active and in shape can be more exciting. “Technology tools such as pedometers, heart rate monitors and software applications can help motivate people to establish, monitor, regulate and achieve fitness goals,” Dr. Nicole Smith, a professor in the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, said. The following fitness gadgets can supplement most routines.
Many women have relied on contraceptives to prevent unplanned pregnancy for more than half a century. And in 2006, one pill claimed to be “beyond birth control,” promising to treat acne and premenstrual syndrome, thus enticing more women to choose this pill instead of others on the market. But a recently filed lawsuits and a $20 million corrective ad campaign for misleading commercials have raised questions about the safety of this pill.
Comfort foods remind people of childhood. They are craved on a cold, rainy day. Or simply put, they make a person feel good. Because of their enjoyable nature, it is a shame most of these have a large amount of calories, fat and sodium. Even at a young age, it is important to be diet-conscious to prevent future health problems.
France and Italy aren’t the only places to find quality wines. San Diego wine connoisseurs should be proud of their roots, as South Coast Winery Resort & Spa in Temecula was awarded Best Winery in California two years in a row. “California has little to prove with wine making,” Dean A. Thomas, the executive chef of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa said.
El Niño. El Niño. El Niño. With a repeated echo fit for an announcer at a monster truck rally, weather forecasters won’t stop talking about El Niño this year. But, there’s good reason for the repetition, because an El Niño weather pattern generally translates into heavy snowfall in California and its surrounding states. Even without the added benefit of El Niño, the next few months are likely to see great ski and snowboarding conditions in several states.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Some names have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved. In October of last year, President Barack Obama’s administration directed the U.S. Department of Justice to end the prosecution of state-compliant medical marijuana clinics. Today, many entrepreneurs are using this calm time as a business opportunity, and the business of medical marijuana is booming.
El Niño. El Niño. El Niño.
With a repeated echo fit for an announcer at a monster truck rally, weather forecasters won’t stop talking about El Niño this year.
But, there’s good reason for the repetition, because an El Niño weather pattern generally translates into heavy snowfall in California and its surrounding states. Even without the added benefit of El Niño, the next few months are likely to see great ski and snowboarding conditions in several states.
“2010 got off to a slow start,” Jessica Kunzer, Ski Utah Director of Communications, said. “But Utah and other states were hammered by storms at the end of January.”
Texting has improved personal communication in many ways, from helping maintain a long-term relationship, to chatting with friends, to updating acquaintances more efficiently. But along with this added convenience comes a new temptation: people have begun to resort to texting to handle uncomfortable situations.
A credit score may appear to be a small, three-digit number, but it’s powerful enough to make or break a consumer’s application to buy a new house, purchase a car or set up a cell phone plan. This is the number used by lenders to determine how trustworthy people are in paying off their debt. A good credit score decreases the interest rate on a loan or the premium on insurance.
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