Savannah Reiff

Spring is in the air, the sun has finally come out, and it’s time to freshen things up. Cleaning isn’t always the most exciting activity, however there are so many benefits of spring cleaning, even if you just spend one hour doing it, you will feel so much better.

Benefits of spring cleaning:

1. Everything will be clean (obviously).

2. With everything clean, you will feel happier.

3. You can turn it into a workout instead of going to the gym.

4. If you are procrastinating, you will feel better procrastinating by cleaning rather than spending hours on Netflix (but you can also watch Netflix while you clean).

5. You might find things you forgot you had, like that sweater hidden in the back of your closet that’s perfect for spring.

6. Once you are done cleaning, it will be much easier for you to reorganize things, redecorate your dorm, or to change the layout of your room!

With all of these reasons to do even just a little spring cleaning, go ahead and start by opening a window to air out the rooms, light a candle, and put on your favorite upbeat music. I've compiled a few suggestions on how to clean each room and what needs attention. When you have finished, I recommend going out and buying your favorite spring colored flowers to display in your newly cleaned room!

Name: Sarah Sanchez
Hometown: Newton, MA
Major: Civil Engineering & Environmental Science

What made you join HEAT?

I joined HEAT because I was interested in sustainability: learning more about it, how to live more sustainably myself, how to bring those ideals to my campus, how to get involved with the things that I was really passionate about, and to meet others who had similar interests! I was inspired by the way the students in HEAT were so committed to sustainability in their own lives and how they are making real changes for the better on our campus.

I've been hearing a lot about sustainability on campus now. Can you tell me a little about it?
Some of our on-going and annual HEAT sustainability programs include Trash2Treasure, Do It In the Dark (an energy saving competition between the freshman residence halls), and the garden plot in the Fenway Victory Gardens. Other current sustainability initiatives on campus include attaining a 1:1 ratio with recycling bins and trash receptacles and educating NU students, faculty, and staff on proper recycling and composting practices. Last month, we held a Sustainability Symposium- a collaborative effort by Facilities, Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Dining Services, SGA and HEAT. All of these groups were given the opportunity to talk about their sustainability initiatives and progress in a forum where anyone from the Northeastern community could come and learn about what’s going on at our school.

Spring break is almost here and what better way to spend it than catching up on your reading? Whether you are on a warm beach laying in the sun, or cuddled up inside while it snows, reading is the perfect way to get lost in a story and forget all about the second half of the semester ahead. Below I have selected some of my favorite books, and some on my to-read list, divided into categories for every mood.

If you are looking to laugh…

1. Bossypants- Tina Fey
This is Tina Fey’s autobiography and it is hilarious. The star of 30 Rock, SNL’s Weekend Update, and Sarah Palin impersonator writes about her experience growing up and how she got to where she is today. Warning: if you are prone to embarrassment, don’t read this book in public because it causes sudden outbursts of laughter the whole way through.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and whether you hate it or love it, dessert is the most important part of the day for everyone. Whether you want to make something filled with chocolate to share with your loved one, or need something to comfort you while you drown your sorrows in the most recent Nicholas Sparks movie, there are plenty of options out there. Even if you don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day, these delectable treats can be made all year round. So bring out your cooking skills and enjoy these wonderful desserts.

1. Chocolate Covered Strawberries- This is the classic Valentine’s Day treat you see in all the romantic movies and advertisements. I have not met anyone (besides myself) who does not get ecstatic over chocolate covered strawberries. So if you are looking for the perfect treat for a romantic evening, chocolate covered strawberries are definitely your best option. All men (except my bf) please take note and make these for your lady, she will be overly pleased with your gesture.

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