This week’s campus cutie is Rita Ramati, a third year student doing a major in political science and minor in film studies, who has applied her knowledge with her passion (and skill!) of writing to become a news editor for The Gazette, Western’s student run newspaper. Rita is an ambitious student, loyal dog – mommy, and an amazing, supportive friend, learn more about her!
Age: 20Major: Poli Sci, Minor in FilmHometown: Richmond HillRelationship Status: Single
What is the article that you’ve written for The Gazette that you’re the most proud of?
The article that I am most proud of is my Shinerama article. For those who don’t know, Shinerama is a campaign where students across the country raise money for Cystic Fibrosis. It is an amazing charity and I was very proud to be able to spread the word and hopefully inspire/remind people to get out there and volunteer for this cause.
What has been the worst moment for you as a new ‘dog – mom’ so far?
Although my baby has lots of accidents in the house, keeps me up at night crying, and scares away my friends by biting them, the absolute worst moment was when I thought he was going to get hit by a car. While on a casual walk he took off his collar, in a split second, and started running away from me. I freaked out and started chasing after him as fast as I could. I almost had a heart attack because 1) I was worried he’d get hit by a car and 2) I am not a great runner. In just a few moments every horrible thought went through my mind and I realized how very much my dog meant to me – his safety is my number one priority.
What is your go – to routine to make yourself feel better after a bad day?
Netflix. Netflix. Netflix. I am a big movie buff so I love watching movies and tv shows in general, but especially after a long and bad day. Shows like Happy Endings, Friends, and Gilmore Girls always make me focus less on the bad things in my life and laugh a bit. It’s especially great when I get to curl up with my puppy and watch Netflix.
What are you most looking forward to doing during Homecoming this year?
Homecoming is one of my favourite days all year, but this year I am particularly excited to share the event with two of my closest friends from my hometown. I love Western so much and cannot wait to share my spirit and pride with them. As well, I love hosting people at my place because it gives me an excuse to bake hoco cupcakes, make purple jell-o shots, and deck out my house in purple decorations.
What is one film that everybody should be required to see?
So many films are going through my mind right now, but I’ll just settle and say Kill Bill. It has been one of my favourite films since I was about nine years old, and I always recommend it to my friends — although many of them ignore my suggestion. It is a pastiche film that mixes genres and musical styles, and always inspires me to be a bad ass woman. It is definitely my favourite Tarantino film.
Best advice for someone who wants to pursue writing?
Just write. I did not join the Gazette until I was in second year, because I was worried I would not be good enough. Once I finally got the courage to come and volunteer I realized all they wanted was dedicated people who wanted to write. The more I write, the better a writer I become. Every week I get more confident and feel better about my skills. If I let my fears hold me back and did not write then I would never have gotten any better or gained any experience. If journalism is not the kind of writing you want to pursue then just write at home and get your friends to read over your work and give you feedback. No doubt that the more you write, the better you will get.
SPEED ROUND!
Best drunk food in London?
SMOKES!
Favourite new snapchat – selfie filter?
Not sure if this counts, but I LOVE that Western has it’s own filter now.
Least favourite building on campus?
The University Community Centre, it is always too hot, overcrowded, and the wifi crashes all the time —but it’s also where The Gazette is so I spend all my time there.
Best store in Masonville Mall?
Spencers.
Best pizza topping?
Extra cheese.
Current Netflix – binge?
Gilmore Girls.
Song that you’re most ashamed for loving?
S Club Party.
Celebrity that is most worthy of dating?
Male: Miles Teller. Female: Gigi Hadid.