When I need some writing inspiration, I look to Emily Schuman, the author of the fashion/food/interior design blog Cupcakes and Cashmere. I was honored to ask her a few questions about her career and her time majoring in sociology and minoring in media studies at Scripps College:
What was the best class you ever took in college?
Wow, that's a tough one…I took a lot of great courses. I think the one that I enjoyed the most, however, was my screenwriting class. I thought it would be fun and easy, but turned out to be exceptionally challenging, but very rewarding.
What to take advantage of?
[Taking] classes that were a bit off the beaten path like African dance, The Films of Hitchcock, and Politics (something I had zero interest in, but wanted to feel like I had a good understanding of). I'd encourage people to take classes that appeal to them, since it's the best way to learn new things, meet great people and to broaden your interests.
Biggest regret?
Not studying abroad. I told myself that you only go to college once, but that I had the rest of my life to travel – not so much. It would have been really great to have done some more traveling, work on my Spanish, meet new people – without any of the stresses that I have now (running my own business, paying bills, etc.).
What do you miss the most?
I miss the lifestyle. I'd cram pretty much all of my classes in the mornings (I'm a morning person) so that by 1 p.m., I could get my work done by the pool. I was just so relaxed in college, and I just wish I had been more aware of how few responsibilities I had back then!
What to you miss the least?
All the homework… It's nice that now when I'm done with my work, I don't have to think about fine tuning an essay or reading another required book.
What are your suggestions for staying on a budget?
Figure out what matters most to you, and then budget accordingly. When I was first out of college, I wasn't into cooking and often times would just heat up some turkey meatballs in the microwave (super gourmet!). So back then, I didn't budget much for food, but put it all towards clothing. At the time though, I definitely favored the idea of "quantity over quality" so that I felt like I had a ton of different options to choose from, even if they weren't that well made.
How has your style changed since you've been in college?
In college, my style was pretty abysmal. I was dating a guy that was 6'5” (an entire foot taller than me), so I felt the need to constantly make myself taller and wore Rocket Dog platform flip-flops almost all the time. They were clunky and terrible, but I guess complemented my bad taste in graphic T-shirts nicely. Since then, I've really tried to refine my style, by adhering to the things I'm most drawn to – like feminine silhouettes, tailored jackets, well made shoes and classic bags. I feel much more grown up, but still like to add in fun elements that ensure my looks never feel too rigid or predictable.
Fill in the blank:
Best late night college snack: Cookies and milk
Most memorable night of college: The night we watched “Jaws” on inner tubes in the pool
Songs that remind you of college: Britney Spears’ “Toxic”
Classes are better depending on the subject or the professor? Professor
Classes are better depending on the subject or the professor? Professor
Ramen or Mac n’ Cheese? Mac n’ cheese
Late night or early morning crams? Early morning
Take notes in notebooks or on your computer? Notebooks
Go to class in sweatpants or an actual outfit?Outfit
Caffeine fix from coffee or tea? Coffee
Frat party or wine night? Wine night
Dining hall or microwave food? Dining hall
