Jen Lassen

More by Jen Lassen

Dear Bathing Suit Top

5/11/2013

Dear Bathing Suit Top,

Hello, again. It’s been about a year since I’ve last seen you. I apologize for burying you in the depths of my drawers, but let’s face it, seeing you doesn’t exactly elicit the best of memories. Well, let me rephrase that. I fondly remember our days spent basking in the sun together, but I also remember all of the times you let me down.

I’m talking about three things:  spillage, spillage, and more spillage. Okay, so I get that you’re from Victoria’s Secret and you think that you’re a big shot, or whatever. But do you really have what it takes to be on top? Because frankly, I’d agree to disagree. When I’m splashing in the waves, I want security, not a free show for all. Those two things on my chest are nowhere near as tanned as the rest of my body, and I’d prefer it if they didn’t see the light of day or meet the eyes of others.

Is it too much to ask to dolphin dive under a wave without having to stay under water for extra time, “adjusting” myself? Good grief. Sometimes when I’m underwater, I feel like covert CIA Operations trying to get myself back into place before I emerge, attempted mermaid-style, from the dark blue abyss. There’s nothing to see here, folks!

I mean, really. Those little flat sponges are supposed to “cover” my chest? Better luck next time. Those things are about as protective as tissue paper. And boy, they’ve really got nerve, sliding around and moving about when I’m simply trying to play Chicken or Marco Polo. Let a girl live and be free...but not too free.

“Whatta Girl Wants, Whatta Girl Needs”: Ideal Qualities for the Bucknell Guy

4/30/2013

My mom always told me, “You have to kiss a bunch of toads before you find your prince.” Not exactly the most pleasant image, but it’s been enough to get me by. At this wild, crazy, emotional place we call college, us girls have the oh-so-fun task of mining for the diamond when it sometimes feels like we’re only surrounded by the rough. That’s why I set out to truly understand what it is a Bucknell girl wants from a Bucknell guy. I talked with a number of girls on campus and gathered their thoughts about the qualities they desire in a male. Whether it’s what she craves while hooking up or the characteristics she seeks in a potential boyfriend, I feel it is entirely necessary to share these golden nuggets of wisdom with you, Bucknell-boy reader. Maybe I’m not often as charitable as I should be, but in a Cupid-like way, I feel like I’m really doing some good here. Listen up, guys, or forever hold your peace.

WHAT SHE’S LOOKING FOR IN A HOOK-UP…

Chrysalis and HC’s Procrastination Station

4/25/2013

Who loves dressing up? We do. And, if you’re reading this, you’re obviously a fabulous, fashionable member of the Bucknell community. Congrats! Now, show off your stuff at this year’s Chrysalis gala!

Chrysalis, a longstanding tradition at Bucknell, will take place this Friday, April 26 from 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. in the Gerhard Fieldhouse. This year’s main performer is a fierce, funky, fabulous woman much like each one of us, PAT BENATAR! Known for her hits “Love is a Battlefield,” “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” and “Heartbreaker,” Benatar won’t disappoint like Lupe Fiasco…and after Benatar’s performance, stick around to dance the night away to today’s hits and yesterday favorites played by DJ Doug Bogan!

Enough about dancing…a girl’s gotta eat, right? Have no fear:  chocolate fountains are near! Featuring piles of fruit, cake, marshmallows, Rice Krispies treats, and more for dipping, AND a plethora of hot appetizers (think sweet and sour meatballs, mini hot dogs, mini quiches, etc.), you’ll want to set up a tent near the food tables and camp out all night long.

As I mentioned earlier, the dress code is semi-formal attire. With the forecast showing clear skies for Friday, it’s the perfect opportunity to dress your best and impress all the rest! (Okay, so I got a little carried away, but seriously…this event will rock. Don’t miss it!)

 

Boston Marathon: Heroic Deeds in Tragic Times

4/22/2013

 

What started as an annual celebration quickly turned into a day that will forever be lamented in our country. The bombings that occurred at the Boston Marathon last Monday are no doubt tragic and horrific. No one expected the bombings, especially the runners caught completely off-guard as they ran across the finish line. However, the heroic and brave acts following the bombings demonstrate the power of compassion that often take place in such sudden emergency situations.

Here are some of the most heartwarming examples of first responders in the Boston Marathon tragedy: 

 

●      There are reports of spectators who were first responders after the initial explosion. For example, 53-year-old Carlos Arredondo vaulted a barricade and ran straight into the cloud after the explosion to help. Arredondo grabbed torn pieces of someone’s sweater to stop the intense bleeding from a man’s leg. “I told him, ‘My name’s Carlos, you’re going to be OK, help is on the way,” said Arredondo to The Daily Beast online.

●      Businesses in the surrounding area opened their doors for respite from the hectic and crowded streets, and offered free refreshments and WiFi.  One such business, a small Mexican restaurant named “El Pelon Taquería,” tweeted “Pay only if you can” and welcomed frazzled residents and runners alike.

A Better Bucknell Spring Fitness Plan

4/15/2013

At a school like Bucknell where one person is more beautiful than the next, it’s hard not to feel self-conscious when springtime rolls around. When I hear the word “spring,” I immediately think, “Are my thighs ready for shorts?” “Is that little belly pouch I’ve been storing all winter ready to see the light of day?” “Does pale skin complement my not-toned muscles?” With thoughts like these floating around in my head for the past two Bucknell spring seasons, I’ve taken the liberty to create my own Bucknell Spring Fitness plan. Sure, it’s a little non-traditional, but it’s proven to yield results in no time! (*Note, I didn’t say “positive” results, just results…)

Jen’s Golden Bucknell Spring Fitness Plan Rules

Get out of the gym! You heard me…get out of the gym! With the beautiful weather we’ve been having, trade in your afternoon elliptical workout for a walk to the Freez instead. You’ll thank your body later! Which leads me to my next point…

Double up to really make a difference. In my humble opinion, one Freez is never enough. Been dying to try Health Bar, but you’re faithful to Oreo? Why not get both?! Double fisting isn’t a crime; it’s a lifestyle choice. Adjust your habits so that the more calories you’re consuming, the better!

A Better Bucknell Spring Fitness Plan

4/12/2013

 

At a school like Bucknell where one person is more beautiful than the next, it’s hard not to feel self-conscious when springtime rolls around. When I hear the word “spring,” I immediately think, “Are my thighs ready for shorts?” “Is that little belly pouch I’ve been storing all winter ready to see the light of day?” “Does pale skin complement my not-toned muscles?” With thoughts like these floating around in my head for the past two Bucknell spring seasons, I’ve taken the liberty to create my own Bucknell Spring Fitness plan. Sure, it’s a little non-traditional, but it’s proven to yield results in no time! (*Note, I didn’t say “positive” results, just results…)

Jen’s Golden Bucknell Spring Fitness Plan Rules

Get out of the gym! You heard me…get out of the gym! With the beautiful weather we’ve been having, trade in your afternoon elliptical workout for a walk to the Freez instead. You’ll thank your body later! Which leads me to my next point…

Double up to really make a difference. In my humble opinion, one Freez is never enough. Been dying to try Health Bar, but you’re faithful to Oreo? Why not get both?! Double fisting isn’t a crime; it’s a lifestyle choice. Adjust your habits so that the more calories you’re consuming, the better!

A.C.E Sponsors Breakfast Before Bed

4/12/2013

Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, tastes good at any hour. This Friday, come to the first-ever A.C.E, Women’s Volleyball team, and Men’s Basketball team co-sponsored Breakfast Before Bed event and indulge in your favorite breakfast foods before you hit the hay…or hit the town!

Beginning at 9:00 p.m. until midnight, the event also features relaxing yoga and make-your-own tea bags. These calming essentials are necessary no matter the time of day and are the perfect ways to chill out after a stressful week.

Do yourself a favor and enjoy Breakfast Before Bed in the Terrace Room starting at 9:00 p.m. on Friday. You deserve it!

House Party Weekend Fashion

3/20/2013

Ahhh, House Party. There’s no other Bucknell weekend quite like it. To me, House Party is one big spring fashion show. You know you’re bound to be tagged in an infinite number of Instagram pictures from the weekend. With festivities happening all day and night, it’s essential to look your best at all times…even when things do get a little rowdy. Below are some House Party Weekend fashion tips so you don’t have to worry about making a faux pas while Super Saturday-ing or dancing your heart out at SPE. The only worry on your mind should be how exhausted you’ll be come Sunday…

FOR DAY:

o   Edgy Girly-Girl: There’s nothing I love more than a slouchy pair of denim shorts. Wear your favorite pair (or boyfriend jeans if it’s cold) with a flowy lace or embroidered tank and combat boots to toughen up the look. This unexpected combination will be sure to catch a guy’s eye even from across the backyard!

 

o   Sundress Season: At Bucknell, nothing says House Party like the start of “Sundress Season.” Instead of the typical sundress-and-jean-jacket combo, try a denim or cargo vest over a floral-print dress. Pair with boots or gladiator sandals for a boho-chic vibe. Alternatively, try a breezy maxi dress and load up on bangles, funky earrings, and lots of necklaces to personalize the look.

 

10 Reasons You Know You Are a Sophomore...

3/19/2013

1. “Stupid freshmen”

2. You throw out downtown housing slang when it’s not necessary just because, well because you’re now knowledgeable.

3. You think the Bison is somewhat of a shining light of a Chiptole.   

4. By the end of the year you flirt more with freshman girls than boys

5. Your life becomes a whirlwind of estrogen as you lose your male friends to newly formed frat brother bromances.

6. Lari Dining Hall will never be the same.

7. You drive from Roberts to the library just because, well you can.

8. A random make out is no longer really random.  School just got much smaller.

9. You question your freshman year existence; did you even go here?

10. Registers are just not worth the beer in your hair.  

Bison Fest

3/14/2013

“House Party Weekend.” The time during Bucknell spring where craziness isn’t just an option, it’s a three (or five)-day lifestyle. For those of you who want a much-needed break from the downtown scene, check out Bison Fest! It will be bigger and better than ever this year, with so many cool activities to provide a chill option away from the insanity that is typical of the weekend.

On Friday, March 22, Bison Fest kicks off with the screening of “Django Unchained” at 8 p.m. at the Campus Theatre. For the first 120 students to come watch the film, you’ll receive a free popcorn and soda. SWEET! Don’t want to trek all the way downtown? At 9 p.m. the same night, Uptown will host Karaoke for all students co-sponsored with the Residential Colleges. Don’t be afraid to sing your hearts out!

Bison Fest continues on Saturday with tons of awesome events to provide a nice alternative to downtown activities. From 1 to 2:30 p.m., play Bingo Blingo in the Terrace Room to win prizes such as gift cards, Bucknell apparel, and more. After that, head to the Street Fair in the Upper Smith Parking Lot from 2 to 7 p.m. for tons of food, music, a rock-climbing wall, carnival games, crafts, and, much, much more (bring your BUID to receive free tickets for food & games)!! How great does that sound?! Also, from 4 to 8 p.m., the ELC Student Space will be transformed into a game room complete with air hockey, Wii, and Dance Dance Revolution, PLUS free soft pretzels for everyone. Make sure not to miss any of these awesome events or miss your chance for all the free food ;)!

The weekend finishes with the screening of “21 Jump Street” and “TED” at the Campus Theatre for all students, AND every student gets free popcorn and soda while you’re there!