QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Siege and Storm, Leigh Bardugo wrote, “When people say impossible, they usually mean improbable.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! Sometimes it’s hard to overcome your own doubts. It’s easy to underestimate yourself, making a lot of things seem impossible for you. But when we say impossible, we actually mean improbable, and unlike impossibilities, you can always beat the odds no matter how stacked against you they might be.

My advice: don’t let your doubts stop you from going for it, whatever “it” is for you, just because it’s improbable.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, November 6

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, November 7

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, November 8

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, November 9

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Friday, November 10

2023 Undergraduate Research Symposium at Villanova University | 1-4 p.m. | Villanova Room, Connelly Center | Free & Open to the Public

Intersectional Reflections Kickoff Dinner Discussion | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Room 10A, Garey Hall | Free & Open to Graduate Students | Refreshments Served | Register Here

Match Research Program for First Year Students Application Deadline | 11:59 p.m. | More Information Available Here

Sunday, November 12

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

As you might be aware, this week boasts two major holidays: Election Day on this Tuesday, Nov. 7, and Veterans Day on this Saturday, Nov. 11. Although those are both important holidays, here are some fun holidays you can celebrate this week:

Photo by Manny Becerra on Unsplash

If you’re in the mood for some good eats, today, Nov. 6, is National Nachos Day. Whether it’s Taco Bell, some microwaved cheese on some tortilla chips, or loaded nachos from your go-to spot, today is the day to enjoy this delicious Tex-Mex staple.

As mentioned above, this Tuesday, Nov. 7, is Election Day. Although it’s not a “big” election, voting in your local elections can actually have a bigger impact on your everyday life than you might realize. In fact, as the ACLU points out, with a State Supreme Court seat on the ballot this year in Pennsylvania, this election is pivotal in deciding the rights of all Pennsylvanians, including your fellow Villanovans. Not sure who is running? Check out Vote411 to learn more about who will be on your ballot and what they stand for. If you’re registered to vote at Villanova, visit Let’s Vote Nova’s page to find your Villanova-specific polling stations and other important voting information for Villanova students. You can also check out last year’s Weekends Recs on the Pennsylvania Midterm Elections to explore the importance of voting.

Got a sweet tooth? This Saturday, Nov. 11, is also National Sundae Day. I know ice cream and cold weather aren’t typically enjoyed together, but you can still savor the sweet taste of an ice cream sundae from the comfort of the warm indoors.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Da Vinci Code, Dan Brown wrote, “Men go to far greater lengths to avoid what they fear than to obtain what they desire.”

Fears and anxieties are normal and, unfortunately for us, pretty unavoidable. Whether it’s public speaking, trying something new, or thinking about the future, everybody has something that makes them a bit anxious or afraid. It’s seemingly part of being a human.

But, as tempting as it may be, don’t let your fear stop you from exploring your future and pursuing your goals. Trying and failing often feels better than not trying at all.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 30

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Who Bans Books in the U.S.—And What are They So Afraid of? | 5 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Tuesday, October 31

Tricks and Treats from the Vault | 12-2 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Public | Treats Served

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, November 1

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Who Bans Books in the U.S.—And What are They So Afraid of? | 5 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Ron Howard’s A Beautiful Mind (2001) | 5:30 p.m. | VR3, Falvey Ground Floor | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, November 2

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Senghor-Damas-Césaire Lecture for Africana Studies Featuring Wale Adebanwi, PhD. | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Sunday, November 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

For fans of this divisive candy, today, Oct. 30, is National Candy Corn Day. Personally, although it’s not my favorite candy by any means, I think the bad rap candy corn gets doesn’t do it justice. It’s nothing if not whimsical and festive. For anyone on the pro-candy corn side of the debate, today is for you.

As I’m sure you probably know, Halloween is this Tuesday, Oct. 31, but did you know that it’s also National Caramel Apple Day? If you want a Halloween treat that’s more substantive and a bit more nutritious than candy, you can enjoy this classic fall treat.

Photo by Debby Hudson on Unsplash

Wednesday, Nov. 1 is National Stress Awareness Day. With the semester ramping up, it’s easy to get caught up in papers, exams, and projects, but be sure to give yourself time to relax and recharge. Avoiding burnout now might just help you come finals week. Fittingly, Wednesday is also Scented Candle Day. So, if you’re living off-campus, light your favorite scented candle and de-stress with some aromatherapy. If you’re living on-campus, even spraying a nice air freshener can help you relax.

Don’t feel like cooking? National Chinese Takeout Day is this Sunday, Nov. 5. If you want to enjoy some good comfort food (and support a local business), order some Chinese takeout.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Emma, Jane Austen wrote, “Without music, life would be blank to me.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! Music is a loyal companion that can remain at your side through the good and the bad. Whether you’re on cloud nine or down in the dumps, listening to music can help you connect with your emotions. It’s something that can help us connect to ourselves and to others.

Let yourself enjoy music this week, whether you need a sad song to help you cry it out, a happy song to make you smile, or just something to help you focus. It’s nice to not let your life seem blank.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 23

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Company and Industry Competitive Intelligence 101 Workshop | 5 p.m. | Room 206 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students | Refreshments Served | Register Here

Tuesday, October 24

Building Your Scholarly Profile Virtual Workshop | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | Free & Open to the Public | Designed for Faculty & Graduate Students | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Interfaith Human Library: Where Books Talk and We All Learn about Life in a Multi-Faith World | 4:30-6 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff | Light Refreshments Served | Register Here

Wednesday, October 25

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Community Data Solving Social Enterprise & Business Problems | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, October 26

Peruvian Grupo Cultural Yuyachkani: Weaving Shared Memory Landscapes through Theatre & Performance | 4-5:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Friday, October 27

Fall 2023 CLAS Graduate Research Symposium | 1 p.m. | Dougherty Hall East Lounge & Connelly Center Art Gallery | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

Sunday, October 29

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Brigitte Tohm on Unsplash

If you love Italian cuisine, Wednesday, Oct. 25, is World Pasta Day. With so many variations of pasta, the options for celebrating this comfort food holiday are limitless. Conveniently for Italian food (and carb) lovers, Friday, Oct. 27, is also National Breadstick Day.

Wednesday is also I Care about You Day, the perfect opportunity to let all of the special people in your life know what they mean to you. It’s easy to take people and their presence in our lives for granted, but not showing your appreciation for someone you love is a regret you don’t want to live with. Reach out to your loved ones, whomever they are, and let them know you care.

Saturday, Oct. 28, is Make a Difference Day. Being one person, it’s easy to feel like your individual actions don’t make a difference in the grand scheme of things, but I’m here to tell you that they do. Do a good deed this Saturday, whether it’s picking up some litter, paying it forward, donating money or time to a charity, or doing something nice for someone who needs it. Even a small action can make the difference in somebody else’s life.

Have a sweet tooth? This Saturday is also National Chocolate Day, one of several days dedicated to this sweet treat. With Halloween coming up, this is the perfect excuse to snack on some of your favorite chocolate treats.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Anne of Green Gables, L. M. Montgomery wrote, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats, and welcome back from fall break! Although it’s been October for 16 days, the warm spell we hit in the first week didn’t quite match our picturesque expectations of a cool autumn with trees dropping their colorful leaves, but, returning from break, it’s finally starting to feel like fall.

Enjoy the Octobers. They go by quicker than you think. Enjoy the sweaters, the leaves changing, the warm drinks, and, most importantly, enjoy some time outside. It’s an easy way to breathe in some fresh air and ground yourself.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 16

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, October 17

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

2023 Cultural Studies Food Matters Week: Kurt Evans | 6 p.m. | Room 205 | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

Wednesday, October 18

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Introduction to Transkribus | 12-1 p.m. | Room 205 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Milos Forman’s Amadeus (1984) | 5:30 p.m. | Room 415 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

2023 Cultural Studies Food Matters Week: Eamon Ghasemiyeh | 6 p.m. | Room 205 | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

Thursday, October 19

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Envisioning Celestial Beings: Divine Inspiration Exhibit Reception | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

2023 Cultural Studies Food Matters Week: Arielle Ashford | 6 p.m. | Room 205 | Free & Open to the Public | Refreshments Served

Sunday, October 22

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by micheile henderson on Unsplash

Today, Oct. 16, is World Food Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of food, which is unfortunately a privilege that many do not have the fortune of having stable access to. You could celebrate by donating money, supplies, or time to a local food bank or by stopping by one of our co-sponsored Cultural Studies Food Matters Week events, happening this Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. These events will feature talks about food justice with some tasty samplings.

This Thursday, Oct. 19, is National New Friends Day. College is a great place to make new friends, some of which might even last a lifetime if you’re lucky. You can celebrate by spending some time with some of the friends you’ve made this year or, if you’re feeling friendly and somewhat brave, trying to make a new friend.

If you have a sweet tooth, Saturday, Oct. 21, is National Apple Day. There are countless ways to eat an apple: right to the core, dipped in nut butter, or sprinkled with cinnamon. With October being in the middle of apple season, they’re also featured in some delicious fall desserts like apple pie, apple crisp, caramel apples, or even apple cider.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens wrote, “Nothing that we do, is done in vain. I believe, with all my soul, that we shall see triumph.”

Happy Midterms Week, Wildcats! Midterms week is not a fun time for anyone, whether you’re cramming for exams or feverishly writing essays. It’s undeniably hard work, but it’s not work done in vain. If you work hard, I truly believe that triumph will follow. This goes for any work you’ll encounter in your lives. Triumph is often preceded by hard work.

So, while still maintaining your mental health, put your best foot forward this midterms week. It might be hard to think forward when you’re stressed, but it will make your life easier come finals. And it might just make fall break taste even sweeter.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, October 2

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Devon Room, Connelly Center | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, October 3

Power Through Midterms with Falvey Library | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Falvey Library First Floor | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

History of Puerto Ricans in Philadelphia Event | 5-8:30 p.m. | Riley Ellipse and The John and Joan Mullen Center for the Performing Arts | Ticket Reservations Available Here

Wednesday October 4

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Bruno Nuytten’s Camille Claudel (1989) | 5:30 p.m. | Room 415 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, October 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash

If you’re a fan of thrift shopping, today, Oct. 2 is National Consignment Day. Secondhand shopping is better for the environment, and, as a bonus, you might find some super unique pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Get in, losers, tomorrow, Oct. 3, is Mean Girls Day. If you need to relax for a few hours, watch Mean Girls, the arguably one of the most iconic movies from the 2000s and, for some, a comfort movie. If you want more comfort movie recommendations, check out GA Rebecca’s blog from last week.

Need a tasty reward for all the hard work you put into studying for midterms? Wednesday, Oct. 4, is National Cinnamon Roll Day. Whether you think they’re a dessert or a breakfast food, this warm treat is the perfect excuse to take a break from studying and enjoy some fall vibes. In my personal opinion, cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed during a cozy movie night.

Thursday, Oct. 5, is National Do Something Nice Day. In this stressful time, it’s important to come together as a Villanova community. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, do something nice for a fellow Villanovan this Thursday.

If you want to enjoy your break by reading something other than a textbook and your notes, Saturday, Oct. 7, is Let Freedom Read Day, the wrap-up of Banned Books Week. You can celebrate by reading a banned book (and you might be surprised to find out some of your favorites have been challenged). I might pick up John Green’s Looking for Alaska. Stay tuned for more Falvey blog content about Banned Books Week coming up this week.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien wrote, “Deeds will not be less valiant because they are unpraised.”

Seeing people be appreciative for the nice things you do is undeniably nice. It boosts our confidence and makes us feel happy that we made someone else happy. But a good deed is a good deed with or without praise.

So, even if it’s just a small, simple action that makes someone smile, do a good deed this week. The smallest act of kindness might make someone’s day.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 25

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Devon Room, Connelly Center | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wonders and Realities–Three Irish Poets on Sustainability | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public

Tuesday, September 26

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Scholarship@Villanova Event Featuring Olukunle P. Owolabi, PhD | 5-6:30 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Livestream Available Here | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

Wednesday, September 27

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Introduction to Zotero Citation Software | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Mastering the Art and Business of Webcomics with Professional Cartoonist Brad Guigar | 6-7 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Public | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, September 28

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, October 1

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Today, Sept. 25 is National Comic Book Day. If you’re into comics, today is the day to dust off your favorite edition and enjoy it. If you want to learn about the comics in our Distinctive Collections, check out Christoforos Sassaris’ blog posts on our collection of Marvel Comics and “Classics Illustrated” Comics. Love all things comic book-related? Come by our “Mastering the Art and Business of Webcomics with Professional Cartoonist Brad Guigar” event this Wednesday to spend some time with a professional cartoonist among like-minded peers.

Photo by Derick McKinney on Unsplash

Want to add some joy to someone’s week? You have countless opportunities. If words of affirmation are your love language, Tuesday, Sept. 26, is Love Note Day. Whether its your romantic partner, a close friend, or a beloved family member, write a little love note to show your love and appreciation.

If acts of service are more your speed, Thursday, Sept. 28, is National Good Neighbor Day. It might seem insignificant, but sometimes being a good neighbor, whether its to your roommates, your fellow Villanovans, or any community you’re a part of, the simple things count. So, take this as a sign to wash any dishes you left in the sink, offer a helping hand to someone who needs it, and generally live by our Caritas and Unitas mission.

If you need a therapeutic activity to take a break from studying (and your kitchen is big enough), you can celebrate National Homemade Cookies Day this Sunday, Oct. 1. Bonus points if you share some with a friend.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Little Women, Louisa May Alcott wrote, “Watch and pray, dear, never get tired of trying, and never think it is impossible to conquer your fault.”

In life, there is a lot of trying, and only a fraction of that trying ends up succeeding. It’s one of the few universal experiences of being human. In college, especially, trying at everything can become quite tiresome.

But to grow tired of trying is to never experience growth and to never succeed, and 0ftentimes, the things that are tiring are worth trying for. Remember, it is always possible to grow and get better, no matter the task. Perseverance rarely goes unrewarded.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 18

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, September 19

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 20

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Gale Digital Scholar Lab-a-Text Analysis Platform | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Philosophy and Film Series on “Creativity and Madness”: Ed Harris’ Pollock (2000) | 5:30 p.m. | Room 415 | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Community | Light Refreshments Served

Thursday, September 21

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 24

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Daniel J. Schwarz on Unsplash

If you’re a bookworm, today, Sept. 18, is Read an eBook Day, and luckily, Falvey’s vast collection of online books is at your disposal. Need a snack to go with your ebook? Today is also Rice Krispies Treats Day. If you don’t have any of these delicious marshmallow-y treats on-hand, the ones in Falvey’s Holy Grounds are amazing.

What’s the perfect way to end the last day of summer? An ice cream cone, of course. National Ice Cream Cone Day is this Friday, Sept. 22. If you want to get a taste of autumn, I highly recommend the pumpkin ice cream from Trader Joe’s (or Longacre’s Modern Dairy if you’re ever up in the Barto area).

Although it’s been fall for Dunkin’ and Starbucks lovers for weeks, Saturday, Sept. 23 is the Fall Equinox, the first official day of fall. Although we don’t have the perfect fall weather yet, hopefully it’ll be time to bring out your sweaters, flannels, and boots soon.

Need a self-care day? Innergize Day, a day dedicated to recharging your inner battery, is this Sunday, Sept. 24. Even if you only have a few hours, take some time to tend to your inner needs and enjoy some rest and relaxation.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Emma, Jane Austen wrote, “You must be the best judge of your own happiness.”

Happiness looks different for everybody. For some, it’s in a room full of their closest friends, having fun without a care in the world. For others, it’s peacefully enjoying a good book or relaxing in the sunshine. Maybe it’s success in whatever you’re most passionate about. For me, it’s enjoying a cool Vermont morning in the summer, drinking an iced coffee, and enjoying the company of my loved ones.

Whatever it is for you, and you’re the best judge of your happiness, make time to do the things that make you happy. It’s important to enjoy the good moments in life, especially as stresses begin to pile up.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, September 11

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, September 12

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 13

Fall 2023 Falvey Forum Workshop: Introduction to Digital Humanities | 12-1 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, September 14

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 17

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

If video games are one of your favorite pastimes, tomorrow, Sept. 12, is National Video Games Day. No matter what game you’re into, whether it’s The Sims, Minecraft, GTA, or World of Warcraft, this is your opportunity to let loose and enjoy some video games.

Photo by Eaters Collective on Unsplash

If you need an excuse to let your inner child relive some happy moments, Roald Dahl Day is this Wednesday, Sept. 13. Roald Dahl was a children’s author who wrote memorable classics like Matilda, The Witches, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. You can browse Falvey’s collection of Roald Dahl books, articles, and adaptations here. Personally, I will take any excuse I can to re-watch Matilda, available through Falvey’s DVD Collection. As a bonus, check out my blog on the library in Matilda, as a part of our Libraries Go to Hollywood series.

A great candidate for a PA state holiday, this Thursday, Sept. 14, is Eat a Hoagie Day. If you need a great on-the-go meal, you can celebrate by grabbing a hoagie (and, if you really want to roll with the regional vibe, grab one from Wawa).

Friday, Sept. 15, is the start of Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month, a month dedicated to honoring the contributions of Hispanic Americans in history and celebrating the diverse Hispanic and Latine cultures around the world. Be on the lookout for Falvey’s upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events on our Events & Exhibits page here.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Albus Dumbledore said, “It is not our abilities that show what we truly are. It is our choices.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! As you embark on your journey through this new semester, remember that while your abilities make up a part of you, your choices matter infinitely more. Your choices are what demonstrate who you are or who you will be.

You can choose to be an ambitious student. You can choose to be a good friend or a caring peer. You can choose to be a dedicated athlete or artist. There are countless choices you could make. So, start making the choices, no matter how small, that will get you to where you want to be.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Tuesday, September 5

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, September 6

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, September 7

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 10

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

As the long weekend likely clued you in on, today, Sept. 4, is Labor Day. Here are some other holidays coming up this week:

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Falling conveniently on Labor Day, today is also Eat an Extra Dessert Day. In the spirit of the long weekend, enjoy a sweet treat of your choosing guilt-free.

Wednesday, Sept. 6, is Fight Procrastination Day. It’s easier to start out building better habits early in the semester than it is to in crunch time, and procrastination is definitely a hard habit to break. Still, even if it’s just for the day, try to work on an assignment before the due date. You might even give yourself some extra hours to enjoy on the weekend.

For any movie lovers, Actors’ Day is this Friday, Sept. 8. If you’re in the mood for something lowkey, this is the perfect opportunity for a movie night. If you need something to watch, you can look through Falvey’s DVD and online movie collections for some flicks with all your favorite stars.

Sunday, Sept. 10 is Grandparents’ Day. If you have a grandparent in your life that you cherish, now is a great time to show your appreciation in your own special way. On a personal note, I am very grateful for all of my grandparents, living and passed.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins wrote, “It takes ten times as long to put yourself together as it does to fall apart.”

Happy Monday, Wildcats! Welcome to the first official Monday of the semester. Of course, it’s easy (and important) to enjoy this relatively mellow point in the semester, but it’s also really important to start building good habits early. Whether it’s your first year at Villanova or your last, building good habits in the beginning of the semester is easier than trying to start them during midterms or finals week.

So, whether it’s building a study routine, prioritizing self-care, practicing mindfulness, or getting acquainted with important resources you’ll need down the line, start early. You’ll thank yourself later.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, August 28

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Health Services Building 200 | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, August 29

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, August 30

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Thursday, August 31

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Sunday, September 3

The Learners’ Studio/Center for Speaking and Presentation | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Deval Parikh on Unsplash

Wednesday, Aug. 30, is Frankenstein Day. If you’re a sci-fi fan, you can celebrate this (obscure) holiday by consuming your favorite Frankenstein content, whether that’s Mary Shelley’s classic novel, the 1931 film, or an inspired re-imagining, like Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie.

This Thursday, Aug. 31, is Eat Outside Day. Whether you lay out a picnic blanket, take advantage of the Adirondack chairs around campus, or sit at a table on Falvey’s patio, today is a great excuse to enjoy the warm weather while it lasts and soak up some vitamin D.

Thursday is also National Trail Mix Day. Trail mix is the perfect on-the-go snack to grab as you’re getting into the swing of the semester. Plus, there are hundreds of varieties (especially if you mix your own). My personal favorite mix has cashews, almonds, peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms.

Annie Stockmal is a graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.