Lifestyle
Blog topics ranging from my latest handbag acquisition, wellness practices, and intentional living to tips on achieving work-life harmony and mindfulness.
I Met My Younger Self for Coffee Today- TikTok Trend
Introduction: When Past Meets Present I stumbled upon the TikTok trend “I met my younger self for coffee” and felt a tug at my heart. As a professor who blogs about academia, style, and purpose, I knew I had to adapt it—beyond a 60-second clip, for a quiet moment of...
Letting Go to Grow: How Surrender Became My Path to Creative Freedom
The Accident That Shattered My Illusion of Control Last year, a car accident left me physically injured and emotionally unmoored. Overnight, my body—once capable of juggling lectures, research deadlines, and late-night blog sessions—betrayed me. The pain was...
5 Luxe Bags Under $1500: Academic & Professional Style
Navigating the academic and professional worlds often requires a delicate balance: maintaining a polished image while staying within a realistic budget. Finding that perfect handbag that speaks to your personal style and professional aspirations can feel like...
Versatile Tote Bags That Work as Hard as You Do: Part 1
The Classic Academic Tote Choosing durable materials like leather and suede for work or school bags is a wise decision. Leather totes are more than just an investment; they offer exceptional durability. Ideal for both professional and academic settings, these bags are...
Skin Deep Happiness: Unlocking the Joy of a Perfect Skincare Routine
As a university professor, I spend countless hours reviewing research papers, preparing lectures, and leading class discussions. Yet, one thing I refuse to neglect is my skincare routine. Despite the demands of academia, I believe that taking care of my skin is...
Embrace the Power of Slow Living: An Inspiring Journey Toward Mindfulness and Fulfillment
Finding Balance in the Chaos Imagine stepping onto a vibrant university campus alive with the energy of ambitious students, passionate faculty, and dedicated staff members, all pursuing their dreams. Amid this excitement, I find myself—an enthusiastic business...
Stylish Academia Top Fall Fashion Trends 2024 for Professors
Introduction As the leaves change colour, the air turns crisp, and the campus comes alive with the buzz of a new academic year, it's time to refresh our wardrobes. Fall 2024 offer a unique blend of sophistication and comfort, perfect for those days spent lecturing,...
What’s In My Handbag
I love knowing what other women carry in their handbags. So, I thought some of you may want to know what is in a professor’s handbag. I think it will be fun to start my lifestyle blog post by sharing what is in my handbag. Let’s dig into my bag! I change up my...

Hi, I’m Ivy.
Associate Professor by day and Luxury everything enthusiast by weekend.
I created “Brilliantly Ivy” to share my experiences, hold-ups, and thoughts as a university professor. It’s a space where I express my opinions on teaching, research, maintaining an academic career, and doing life meaningfully. I love showcasing my style through my lens. My style is pretty simple and classic. I enjoy a well-curated closet, a good handbag, and an americano… or iced coffee. You’ll read about journal rejections, my beauty favourites, and my handbag wish list. “Brilliantly Ivy” reflects my belief that academia is a brilliant and fulfilling career choice and can be more gratifying when you relate with the right mentors who guide, being authentic in what you are looking for in academia- our journeys are different.
Get ready to embark on a journey filled with academic wisdom, lifestyle musings, and the occasional farm adventure.
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