Sophia-Beckett

Hey everyone, welcome to ExploreCU!

This is the place to learn about all the weird little places around Champaign-Urbana.

My name’s Sofia – I started this site because I love finding cool hidden spots.

None of that super popular mainstream stuff for me, no way!

I want to shine a light on all the nooks and crannies people miss.

My Big Adventure by Accident

So I just moved to Champaign-Urbana with nothing but a degree in creative writing. Wasn’t really sure what I was gonna do here! All I had was a talent for finding humor in everyday stuff.

That’s when it hit me – I’d start a blog as an excuse to explore the city and get to know it. That’s how ExploreCU was born. I just wanted a reason to wander around aimlessly and see what weird little things I’d find.

Turns out there’s lots of odd stuff around here! Like coffee shops trying way too hard to be fancy. And cultural events that sound more boring than fun. It’s not exactly like Odysseus’ epic journey. But hey, at least it’s something to do and maybe give a few laughs.

Who knows, maybe this blog will lead me to discover myself or my purpose or something deep like that. Or maybe it’s just silly entertainment for folks like me. One thing’s for sure – it started as a total accident. But it’s been a fun ride so far exploring my new hometown!

Stay With Me For Some ‘Real’ Stories

If all those other reviews out there make every place sound way too good to be true, then you need to check out my blog.

It seems like all those other sites just gush about how amazing everything is around here. But we do things a little differently – I like to keep it real with my takes on places.

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I exaggerate things for fun or poke a little joking around. But that’s what makes my reviews so enjoyable! I show you guys the not-perfect sides of CU that no one else talks about.

Where else are you gonna find such a playfully critical look at all the artsy stuff in town? I love this place, but c’mon, it doesn’t mean I can’t find humor in it too!

So if all those glowing recommendations everywhere else put you to sleep, come see what I’m about. I promise an honest view of the cultural scene that’ll have you smiling.

I’m always looking to learn more about where we live. I wanna focus on the real things that make our town special, not stuff that’s made up. Getting to know a place means seeing what everyday life is really like for the people here.

That’s why I’m gonna keep exploring CU and sharing what I find. I’ll hunt around nooks and crannies to dig up new stories to tell. Wanna come with me on my adventures? We can discover cool things together!

You’ll see how ordinary moments shine when you look close.