Hi friends! My name is Annie Strawn and I’m the Campus Activities Director for Chi-O. As Campus Activities Director, I consider myself the resident hype girl for all fun things! I’m basically the cheerleader for the superstars who organize tailgates, mixers, and intramurals. Things will look different this year, but I’m still so excited! I also have the honor of being in charge of Chi-O Carpool Karaoke, a fun segment that fosters community with girls in our sorority through belting classic songs in the car. Hopefully more segments to come on that very soon! I’m no James Corden, but a girl can dream, right?
In honor of school starting back up, I decided to share my current music crushes and school essentials! I’m what some people could call a Spotify freak. It’s my favorite form of social media and most of the time I’m brainstorming what new playlists I can make. Some current favorites in these strange times, and in no particular order:
John Mayer x Why Georgia- Live at the Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles, CA – December 2007. I’m a Georgia native and a John Mayer super-fan so this song always puts me in a good mood. Also live versions? Always better!
Coming Home x Leon Bridges. I just moved into an apartment and have been trying to perfect my cooking dinner playlist. I love all things Leon Bridges and this one is no different!
This Must Be The Place x Sure Sure. Such a good remake of a classic. I listen to it and it makes me think of being reunited with the people I love!
End of Time x Beyonce. MAKES YOU WANT TO DANCE IN YOUR SEAT!
Fly x Prince of Eden. Birmingham has the best sunsets so I always love a good ~golden hour~ drive song! This one sounds better with the windows down.
We Are Family x Sister Sledge. FOR ALL MY CHI-O GIRLS
Everywhere x Sawyer. This song is one of my go-to car songs. Light, fun, and a remake of Fleetwood Mac!
Airmail x Hailaker. I found this band through Discover Weekly (Thank you Spotify!) and I think they make the coolest songs. “I’m not a fan of waiting” = me always. Maybe my new study music? #scholarship #over #social #obligation #always!
How Deep Is Your Love (feat. Yebba)- Live x PJ Morton, Yebba. This song is awesome! One of those songs that feels like eating chicken soup.
All Night Long (All Night)- Single Version x Lionel Richie. I think this song is just so fun. Feels like the end credits to a movie I would want to be in.
And my school essentials:
A MASK! This is a no-brainer these days. My current favorites are from Gap and I’ve got my eyes on one from PJ Harlow!
Lint roller. I’m not kidding. My friends know I love a good lint roller- perfect to clean pillows, clothes, and in a pinch, a lamp shade! I’ve always had one and I highly suggest it.
Lamps! I love lamps. I think they are the superior form of lighting. They are good at any time of the day and make every room feel more homey! My roommate and I have used the same ones since freshman year from HomeGoods.
A carabiner! This is a weird one, but they are so helpful! I keep one on my backpack and they are awesome to clip keys and coffee mugs on.
Hydro-flask. Hydration is KEY!!!
Hand-Sanitizer. Remember when we all had Bath and Body Works hand sanitizer on our backpacks? Thinking about bringing that back this year! Who’s with me?!
Scissors. I’ve realized I almost always need scissors. Here’s to hopefully not losing my new pair!
Rain-Jacket. Birmingham is notorious for being sunny one moment and then randomly raining. I’ve used the same one since 8th grade but If it ain’t broke don’t fix it!
Chapstick. Chapped lips are so last year!
Gum. I’m writing this down to keep myself accountable. I swear I’ve just mooched off my roommate the past two years, (sorry Gracie), but good breath never goes out of style!
I’m pumped to have the opportunity to serve Chi-O this year and to come back to Samford! I hope these lists serve you right and help you prepare for the year ahead. Stay safe and healthy! Hope this is the best year YET!
- Annie Strawn
*Photo taken prior to COVID-19 campus move in*