I could not tell you the name of a single player on the Red Sox. But there’s something about their iconic green stadium that sits a mere 10 minute walk form BU east campus that gives me a sense of pride and belonging. I’m talking about Fenway Park. It’s a landmark to our fine city, and every collegiette in the Boston area needs to experience it at least once during their four years here.
Fortunately, Fenway Park gave college students this opportunity when they opened their doors on Wednesday April 20th to anyone with a college ID. This first annual College Day, which was organized by college student discount provider Edhance, celebrated not only the start of baseball season, but also the 99th anniversary of the park’s first game. With over 7,500 confirmed Facebook guests, the daylong event inside the park hosted tents from loads of popular brands that provided free and discounted merchandise; my favorites was unsurprisingly Ben and Jerry’s.
To top off an afternoon filled with free swag, the first 300 students to enter the park that day got the chance to hit in the Red Sox batting cages. Being the rugged athlete that I am (not), I gave the batting cages a shot, and despite sorely missing all 10 throws, I assured myself that I had thoroughly intimidated everyone in the room.
After turning down several offers to become a professional baseball player that afternoon, I joined a tour of Fenway that recounted its now century of existence while experiencing some of their most spectacular views. And I’ve got to tell you ladies, this place is really something. I don’t know whether it’s the authenticity of the old wooden seats, the deep green metal construction, the perfectly manicured field, or the smell of onion rings, but the entire time that I was in the park, I felt that I was surrounded by history. There’s such an aura of camaraderie, and it’s so cozy there. It feels like home, or as homey as a baseball stadium can be.
So, my collegiette Bostonians, I strongly encourage you all to take any opportunity to spend time at this beloved local treasure. Whether it be a baseball game, a concert, or next year’s College Day (which will celebrate Fenway’s 100th anniversary), it’s something that should be on every BU girls’ college bucket list.