Category: Off Campus

Grove City may be a small, but there sure is a taste for fashion in the town. Nestled in a local pharmacy behind Broad Street resides a small fashion boutique named JMK. With the goal of affordable and timeless fashion, JMK Boutique has brought a fresh wave of fashion with their boutique, fashion show events and local models. Every fall and spring season, JMK Boutique hosts a fashion show which showcases their seasons clothing lines. With each show, JMK creates a theme that captures the essence of their newest clothing. Although each theme may be different, JMK stays true to their goal of affordable and fashionable clothing. Since their first fashion show in 2013, JMK Boutique has continued to recruit local ladies and men from Grove City College and the town to model their seasonal clothing lines on the runway. The fashion shows are great ways for students to connect with the town and for the locals to connect with students. Each show is always different and exciting, as there are always different people, different clothing and different themes. This series tells the stories of  JMK student models who have modeled for two JMK fashion shows. 

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Name: Martha Mihm

Class: Sophomore

Hometown: Stone Ridge, NY

Fashion inspiration: Serena van de Woodsen (Blake Lively, Gossip Girl)

The most accurate description of Martha is “hippie meets Julia Child.” She is a flower child with a knack for cooking all things earthy and delicious. Pursuing a business management degree and later culinary school, Martha had never considered modeling before getting involved with JMK Boutique, but this may be hard to believe when watching her walk the runway. Since being involved in the past two JMK fashion shows, “Dauntless” and “Coastal Revival,” Martha has become a reliable JMK model because of her effortless runway walk and natural style. 

Although modeling may be nerve wracking, it also is a lot of fun. Trying on different clothing styles, getting hair and makeup done and being photographed adds to the modeling experience. During the day of the show, the atmosphere is hectic but also an adrenaline rush. One of Martha’s favorite memories is simply getting excited with the models and dancing around before the show. But once the lights go down and the spotlights turn on, the excitement turns into nerves. Martha admits, “Right before I walk out, I usually feel super nervous, my legs shake and I feel sick. But once I walk through once and start changing into my next looks, I get into a rhythm and the adrenaline rush kicks in. It feels like the show goes by so fast once it finishes.”

For the latest fashion show, Martha was styled for six different outfits, mostly all quick changes. Her outfits were styled with a beach bohemian vibe that matched her natural beauty perfectly. Out of these outfits, Martha’s favorite was her final look and the last outfit of the show, a mid-length tribal print dress. Martha modeled the dress with confidence and elegance, closing the runway with a showstopper dress. 

Aside from the adrenaline rushes, the glitz and the glam, Martha enjoys modeling for the one-of-a-kind experience and sharing the experience with a diverse group of people. 

Grove City may be a small, but there sure is a taste for fashion in the town. Nestled in a local pharmacy behind Broad Street resides a small fashion boutique named JMK. With the goal of affordable and timeless fashion, JMK Boutique has brought a fresh wave of fashion with their boutique, fashion show events and local models. Every fall and spring season, JMK Boutique hosts a fashion show which showcases their seasons clothing lines. With each show, JMK creates a theme that captures the essence of their newest clothing. Although each theme may be different, JMK stays true to their goal of affordable and fashionable clothing. Since their first fashion show in 2013, JMK Boutique has continued to recruit local ladies and men from Grove City College and the town to model their seasonal clothing lines on the runway. The fashion shows are great ways for students to connect with the town and for the locals to connect with students. Each show is always different and exciting, as there are always different people, different clothing and different themes. This series tells the stories of  JMK student models who have modeled for two JMK fashion shows. 

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Name: Grace Meakem

Class: Junior 

Hometown: Sewickley, PA 

Fashion inspiration: Audrey Hepburn 

It has been said that people are connected to their name and its meaning. For some, names carry significant meaning, culture and history. For Grace Meakem, she exudes all that her name carries; eloquence and kindness, the perfect combination for a JMK model. 

Grace appeared in her first JMK fashion show, “Dauntless,” in the fall of 2015. She also modeled in the most recent JMK fashion show, “Coastal Revival.” Both of these experiences were positive, opposite of the self-hate and insecure feelings the modeling industry induces. Instead of inflicting feelings of mediocrity and uncertainty, Grace appreciates the positive and supportive atmosphere, “It is such an encouraging environment that truly builds up each person involved. I think a lot of modeling situations have the potential to hinder people’s confidence but I have always felt so confident and appreciated at JMK!” 

It is easy to pick out a good model by their attitude. Grace’s attitude is something along the lines of, “hit me with your best shot” combined with “where can I help out?” She is resilient, low maintenance and adventurous, “I chose to do JMK because I wanted to challenge myself in ways I had yet to be challenged.” Since her pursuit for a new experience, Grace has evolved into a graceful and fearless model. Ready to try whatever is thrown at her, Grace has appeared on the runway in looks ranging from preppy and classic to trendy and edgy. 

With each show, one of Grace’s favorite parts is connecting with students across campus and within the town, “I have loved getting to know girls that I would have never met before. It is fun to form new friendships and create bonds with other models.” JMK offers a unique way for students and locals to connect and build relationships. With each fashion show, the friendships grow closer and stronger. To Grace, these relationships are the most valuable aspect of the JMK modeling experience.

Grove City may be a small, but there sure is a taste for fashion in the town. Nestled in a local pharmacy behind Broad Street resides a small fashion boutique named JMK. With the goal of affordable and timeless fashion, JMK Boutique has brought a fresh wave of fashion with their boutique, fashion show events and local models. Every fall and spring season, JMK Boutique hosts a fashion show which showcases their seasons clothing lines. With each show, JMK creates a theme that captures the essence of their newest clothing. Although each theme may be different, JMK stays true to their goal of affordable and fashionable clothing. Since their first fashion show in 2013, JMK Boutique has continued to recruit local ladies and men from Grove City College and the town to model their seasonal clothing lines on the runway. The fashion shows are great ways for students to connect with the town and for the locals to connect with students. Each show is always different and exciting, as there are always different people, different clothing and different themes. This series tells the stories of  JMK student models who have modeled for two JMK fashion shows. 

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Name: Alison Kjergaard

Class: Junior

Hometown: Denver, Colorado

Fashion inspiration: Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot

Ali Kjegaard joined the JMK modeling family in the fall of 2015. She modeled in “Dauntless,” a fashion show which captured the “dauntless” woman—a woman who is strong, successful and stylish. In the spring of 2016, Ali not only modeled for the “Coastal Revival” fashion show but also appeared on their promotional marketing materials. She and another model were the faces of the Coastal Revival fashion show. 

Not having any prior modeling experience, Ali was contacted by Saria Dorsey, JMK Creative Director. Flattered by the opportunity, she agreed and began the new adventure of modeling. Before any type of performance, feeling nervous emotions is typical and almost expected. When it comes to modeling, there is a unique pressure on the models. Not only is there the possibility of tripping, but the models are also presenting the clothing to the viewers. For Ali, she was definitely feeling the nerves, “I didn’t want to trip and ruin the whole show.” Thankfully, she didn’t. Aside from the nerves, modeling in a fashion show is most definitely a unique experience, which Ali definitely appreciates.

“The thing that I enjoy most is that though I’m such an awkward person (I’m kinda tall and just stand out in a crowd), this is when being tall isn’t a bad thing and my awkwardness doesn’t show in the pictures. Modeling has let me embrace the things that make me different–isn’t that the point of dressing well; to allow us to appreciate the things that make us who we are?”

Having the chance to find yourself in a different way is very special because it peels back another layer of who you are. Discovering a new part of yourself can be quite intimidating but also exciting. Ali channeled her unique gift of beauty into a passion of modeling, something she did not consider before. Be on the look out for more of this stunning student model! 

One of the most beautiful things about Grove City College is the myriad of passions that different students have. One particular hobby that many Grove City students seem to share is their love and involvement in politics. This isn’t surprising. The College is built on the foundation of “faith and freedom,” and itself has participated in defiance of government influence through its battle in the Supreme Court of the United States in the 1980s. It is logical then that students here are very zealous in their political beliefs. One way that Grove City students express this passion is through their attendance of the Conservative Political Action Conference, or CPAC. Every spring, Grove City takes a few dozen students to CPAC; this year was no different. I had the chance to ask one of the student organizers of this trip, Brianna Buczkowski, a few questions about this incredible trip. Her answers are below.

What was your involvement in the organization of the Grove City trip to CPAC this year?

“Out of the student fellows [for the Center for Vision and Values] I was asked to be the point person for the trip meaning I led the discussions, created a new system for sign-ups and delegated other responsibilities to the fellows and also worked the closest with Mr. Wishing and Mrs. Vinton on the planning and execution.”

How many students attended CPAC this year? Is this a typical number?

“We had about 44 students attend. Our funding is adequate for us to take a coach bus full of students. Because the Center heavily subsidizes the trip the number of attendees, naturally, has to stay limited.”

Are students able to get out of classes to go to CPAC?

“Unfortunately no, students do not get officially excused from class, but professors are generally very understanding and supportive of students going on this trip.”

What kinds of opportunities to Grove City students have at CPAC?

“CPAC is only one aspect of the trip, which is officially called the D.C. Networking Experience, which is really what it is more so than just CPAC. We plan an alumni mixer event at the Heritage Foundation which is widely attended by alumni in the D.C. area, a breakfast at the Charles Koch Foundation and other think tanks and similar organizations for students to actually go to and network. And of course, we stay right at the Gaylord Convention Center where CPAC takes place so in free time students have direct access to the speeches going on and the exhibit halls and other events happening in conjunction with CPAC.”

Describe one of your favorite experiences at CPAC.

“Sitting in the media section in the back while speakers talked and being able to see people I see on TV! Super cool!”

CPAC is an awesome experience to network and hear speeches by the top conservatives in the U.S. If you get a chance to go, I hope you take it!

A day in Pittsburgh. A Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Dinner with GCC President McNulty.

Yes, this was a great weekend for the many students who went on Grove City College’s trip to see the play “Disgraced.”

This trip was a small part of the college’s student experience project. Through this project, faculty and staff seek to bring students in contact with theatrical productions. But beyond just viewing plays, their desire is to generate discussion and learning from the themes brought forth in the productions.

I was one of the couple dozen students who got on the bus for Pittsburgh that day.

Through the rainy drive, I had some time to think about the play we would be viewing. I heard that it would be controversial.

That it was. For those unfamiliar with Ayad Akhtar’s “Disgraced,” it tells the story of a Pakistani American named Amir. The snippet of Amir’s life shown in the play is chalked-full of conflict. Almost all of this conflict arises from misplaced tradition, prejudice and betrayal. Charlene Shaw, one of the coordinators of the event, remarked on Facebook that it was a “sharp, honest, focused snapshot in 90 minutes of the complexities of our global society.”

It left a lot of us thinking.

We got to keep thinking as we chewed on some delicious local pizza and accompanying desert.

Gathering in a large room, we sat and engaged in conversation with the panel composed of faculty members and the president. Their answers helped us make sense of the themes of the play, even extending to discussions of the PATRIOT Act, current racial issues in the business world and the history of countries that have had to integrate vastly different cultures. Many students presented their opinions and reservations about the subject.

Following this symposium, we got on the bus to drive back to campus. It was another thoughtful, “stare-out-the-window” kind of ride.

I am excited to write about such an opportunity. Viewing intriguing art forms and grappling with difficult current ideas are things that I came to college seeking. Grove City College does a fantastic job of giving students opportunities to think and engage with different ideas and worldviews.

Running is a favorite activity for many. Whether it’s to stay in shape or simply for the enjoyment of it, there’s no physical activity quite like it. While the treadmills in the campus gym or the indoor track above the IM room can be great, there’s something about running in the outdoors that’s more enjoyable. It’s great to be able to breath in the fresh air and take in the scenery around you while getting a good workout.

Several running routes and trails exist around campus that students enjoy jogging on regularly. One popular route is the Pinchalong “lollipop” route, which is right off of South Madison Street and stretches on for about 5.5 miles, starting and ending at campus. This pavement road path takes you past open fields and farms and offers a scenic view.

To run this route, follow Pinchalong to Diamond Road to Enterprise Road, to Tieline Road, which will lead you back to Pinchalong. Check out this route on a map.

Another popular route is a 3.5-mile loop located right off of East Main Street along Greenwood Drive. At a fork in the road, you can choose from two different loops. The path to the right surrounds an open field and contains more hills than the path to the left, which circles around the Hunter Farm Park soccer fields. Runners jog both loops to complete the full 3.5 miles.

Like the Pinchalong route, this road is very scenic, as it meanders along tree lined, paved paths, and streams of water flowing from Wolf Creek. The foliage is especially beautiful in fall months. Check out a map of this route.

Lastly, Memorial Park offers a running trail that is also enjoyable to trek on. This route is located off of West Main Street along Memorial Park Drive and is situated right next to Grove City Area High School. The 3-mile paved path surrounded by tall trees follows Memorial Park Drive to a wooded trail that passes baseball fields and leads out to George Junior Road. Once you’ve reached George Junior Road, it’s best to turn around and follow the same route back.

Not only are these trails great for running, but for walking and biking as well. All of these mentioned routes are safe and scenic and allow you to enjoy the outdoors while simultaneously getting some exercise. Many other routes exist, so many students enjoy going out and exploring the surrounding area to discover new running paths.

This is the second part of a series highlighting some of my favorite neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is only 45 minutes away from Grove City, making it a great destination for a day trip. Be sure to check out the first post of this series which highlights Shadyside and Squirrel Hill on the east side of Pittsburgh. This post includes the Strip District and Market Square, two eclectic neighborhoods full of unique events and authentic restaurants.

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STRIP DISTRICT

Pittsburgh’s Strip District, which runs along the Allegheny River, was once the home of many mills and factories due to its convenient location for transportation of goods and materials. The thriving industry in the Strip District during the 19^th century made it a mixing pot for immigrants from all over Europe and Asia. As wholesalers began to leave the area in the mid to late 20^th century, immigrants revitalized the abandoned warehouses, turning them into ethnic restaurants, specialty markets and art studios. Today, the Strip District is a bustling, outdoor historic market place. With crowded streets full of food vendors offering authentic cuisine from all over the world – from fish markets to homemade potato pancakes to fresh mozzarella – as well as native Pittsburgher’s speaking “Pittsburghese”, the Strip District is a great location for students looking to expand their surroundings and indulge in delicious food. While you’re there be sure to check out Pamela’s Diner, where the Obama family sampled some world famous pancakes. If the line is too long, you can try the pancakes topped with ice cream at Pamela’s rival, Deluca’s.

 

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MARKET SQUARE

Market Square is the hub of activity in downtown Pittsburgh, featuring an eclectic mix of old restaurants and new shops. The best part of Market Square, however, are the numerous events that occur year round. During the summer and fall months, Market Square hosts one of the best farmers markets in Western Pennsylvania, full of fresh fruit from local farms and Amish goods from just down the road. Market Square kicks off the Christmas season with Pittsburgh’s annual light-up night, illuminating downtown Pittsburgh with Christmas lights. The Christmas festivities continue in Market Square with a Holiday Market, which is inspired by German Christkindlmarkts, bringing a bit of European tradition to downtown Pittsburgh. Additionally, throughout the winter, Market Square sets up an ice skating rink, where many Grove City students can be seen attempting to maintain their balance on narrow blades. For those with Irish blood in them, Market Square boasts one of the best St. Patty’s Day parades. In addition to the celebratory seasonal events, Market Square is also the location of numerous food trucks, concerts and outdoor movie screenings. And while you are there, be sure to try Pittsburgh’s famous delicacies – a sandwich topped with French fries – at the Primanti Brothers.

 

Note: All images from this post were taken from Google images.

When I embarked on my college search, I was only looking at schools in an urban setting. Although I had grown up in a small town, I have always considered myself a city girl. However, as I started visiting colleges, I realized that attending school in a city was not what I was looking for. I did not want to deal with the daily hassle of crowded streets and constant commotion. I wanted to take advantage of the opportunities that a large metropolitan area can offer, while being able to enjoy the charm and peaceful environment of a small town. Grove City, located less than an hour north of Pittsburgh, was the perfect fit. Pittsburgh is home to 90 unique neighborhoods, and I have highlighted two of the most popular below. In part two of this post, I will highlight two of my other favorite neighborhoods.

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SHADYSIDE

With tree lined streets that are filled with charming boutiques, upscale stores and small bakeries, Shadyside gives the east end of Pittsburgh a unique, village-like feel. For students who enjoy sipping locally brewed coffee and savoring homemade pastries while looking through high-end national retailers, Shadyside’s Walnut Street is the ideal day trip destination. Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside is famous for its surplus of consignment shops and vintage stores surrounded by nationally recognized local restaurants. Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue are within walking distance, separated by a few streets of beautifully restored, stately Victorian mansions. And while you are in Shadyside, you can visit the only street in the country that is paved with wood, Roslyn Street.

 

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SQUIRREL HILL

Also located in Pittsburgh’s east end district is Squirrel Hill. Squirrel Hill is famous for the business area along Forbes Avenue and Murray Avenue, which is affectionately referred to as “upstreet” by the local residents. Upstreet contains many local business which are more affordable than the shops in Shadyside, but they are equally unique. Squirrel Hill is bordered by the flourishing expanses of Pittsburgh’s famous Frick Park and Shenley Park, offering Grove City students the opportunity to admire the flora inside Phipp’s Conservatory, play a round of Frisbee golf or simply wander along miles of hiking trails after a morning of shopping in the business district. And during the many months of winter in Western Pennsylvania, Shenley Park offers ice skating, making the cold weather a bit more tolerable.

 

Be sure to check out part two of this post to learn about Market Square and the Strip District.

Note: All images from this post were taken from Google images.