The phenomenon of “the girl crush” has been circulating the globe for as long as anyone can remember. English women back in the 1500s probably wanted to be Queen Elizabeth just as badly as ninety-percent of the female population wants to be Jennifer Lawrence today. And no, it’s not just because both were rich and famous; there are plenty of women like that who aren’t nearly as admired (take your pick). It takes a certain kind of girl do be deemed “crushable”, and here’s a profile of some bonafide girl crushes walking around campus.
Name: Jade LohClass: 2014Hometown: Hoboken, NJMajor: Italian/Pre-Med
Girl-Crush Status: Let’s take away the fabulous hair and look at Jade’s intrinsic value, which is basically more fabulousness. She’s eloquent and consoling, having the rare gift of getting a point across perfectly without a) offending anyone or b) being too bombastic. And she’s smart. Very smart. Plus she’s very laid back and makes sure those present are just as calm as she, making for a chill work environment while simultaneously getting things done sufficiently. And that hair…need more be said?
HC NYU: Who are your personal girl crushes and why?JL: I’ve always loved Audrey Hepburn. She exudes elegance and has a classic air to her that I can appreciate. She also is known for the LBD and sunglasses, something that I can’t even live without! In more modern times, I look up to Shakira, both as an artist and as a person. Her commitment to her music and her vision, as a direct representation of herself, is something I admire, especially in a world where changing yourself to appeal to others occurs. Outside of her music, I am interested in her humanitarian efforts and how she pursues her personal interests. Lastly, being bi-racial myself, I can identify with her and also love how she incorporates both cultures into her music.
HC NYU: Which attributes do you find make a girl crush a “girl-crush”?JL: A girl crush, either famous or in my own life, is someone that I look towards who inspires me to challenge myself. Someone who is fearless in expressing their views, while still being aware of their audience, is an attribute that I highly value in a person. Also, being a team player and someone who approaches any task or challenge with a positive attitude is something that I find ‘crushable.’ Mainly, just being a kind and easy-going person makes a girl crush in my book.
HC NYU: Are there any aspects attributed to girls today that you disagree with?JL: In short, yes. One that has been more prevalent in my life and experiences lately is the way in which women speak and refer to each other based on our attributes. This too stems from the media, but it’s the idea that one body type, attitude, or belief system is considered to be more “real” than the other. Honestly, this makes me sad simply because putting down one group to elevate another will consistently perpetuate the cycle of negativity. While, I do recognize that historically certain ideals were viewed less favorably, I believe that we are in the perfect time to challenge those beliefs for our society and ourselves. At the end of the day, I always recall this phrase that my high school was consistently asking us to remember: take care of this place, take care of yourself, and take care each other.
HC NYU: Are there any achievements you’ve accomplished that you’re particularly proud of?JL: Last year, I was nominated and selected for a President’s Service Award here at NYU for my various leadership positions. While I consider myself a humble and slightly awkward individual, especially where awards and recognition are concerned, this meant the world to me. I work closely in the Student Resource Center and the commuter population and to have something I enjoy wholeheartedly doing be recognized on such a grand scale meant the world to me. I’ve learned so much about myself and grown significantly as a person through these roles that to receive an award is the last possible scenario I could’ve imagined. For me, it would be more fitting to present the Student Resource Center with this award for all the support and guidance I’ve received from them over the past four years.
HC NYU: As a senior yourself, do you have any advice for incoming freshmen?JL: As 100 Nights Before Commencement has just passed, I can’t help but be reflective over these past four years. I have two pieces of advice for freshmen, that had I known when I was a freshman, these past four years would’ve been different (cliché I know). One: trust your inner voice and your vision for yourself because although you may change your outlook, you know yourself best. It’s hard to not be swayed by others’ ideas and views, but at the end of the day, if it’s not something that is right for you it is okay to say no. Secondly, there isn’t a set path to undergraduate and to be even more philosophical, life. It’s okay if things don’t go as planned, because sometimes having a plan can lead to disappointment if everything was not followed accordingly. Both of these nuggets of advice go hand in hand, but in short, trust yourself and have fun! It’s really one of the most unique times of your live, so enjoy it!