So, I’m graduating in a little over a month from this fine university. And while I am over going to class, over taking tests, over writing eight page papers the night before and completely over working for free (internships), I am absolutely devastated that I will no longer be able to call myself a “student.” Now, I have to be a real person, with a real job and actual problems to worry about. IT SUCKS. I was at work yesterday, and during our weekly Wednesday meeting, my colleagues were talking to the interns. One of my bosses, Adam, hilariously said, “I would murder every single one of you if I could go back to college.” This was clearly a joke, but for a second there you would think he was serious. Murder. That’s what it comes down to. That’s how bad it will be. That’s what I have to look forward to! So cherish your time now underclassmen. I’m sure people have said it to you before, I’ve heard it a million times myself—”Enjoy every minute.” And while I am trying, I’m not really sure what else to do other than to live it. BU is a big school and sometimes it’s easy to get lost. Here are a few pointers I’ve picked up during my four years here. You’re welcome.
HOUSING
On-campus housing at Boston University is absolutely unfair and horrible.
Freshman year I was in Warren, which was a comedic experience all on its own, however the actual living situation could be measured up to state prisons. My advice is embrace what you have, take advantage of summer swap, and lastly use and abuse any higher connections you may have to get you out of housing hell. Sophomore year we were in Danielson (aka Guam), but that side of town is so Bostonia I really felt like I was “in the city.” If you have a crappy number, seriously try summer swap. You aren’t forced to do anything; you still have a choice to if you get offered something different. There’s no harm in trying.
REGISTRATION
Registering for classes is super stressful—trust me, I know. Here are two things I’ve learned. Number one, have a friend hold a seat for you. Make sure you switch it as soon as possible, but if you absolutely need the class or you are dying to get into it, just do it, as Nike would say. I’m not saying to break every rule, but this one can be bent a little bit. Number two, email professors even if you have been locked out of a class. It’s at least worth a try. There are no repercussions for a professor saying no. It’s worked for me and a bunch of my friends.
ABROAD
GO. Go, go, go, go, go. If you are on the fence, go. If you weren’t even thinking about it, start thinking about it. Going abroad for a semester was definitely one of the greatest things I ever did in college. I experienced so many things. I thought I was all grown up and could take care of myself, but after traveling to over eight different countries, managing safety, and fighting language barriers and different cultures, I am now on the path to being “all grown up.” I love America, but there is a great big world out there that needs to be seen and understood to really appreciate this country of ours. College is the perfect time to do it. I went to London, which was amazing. But anywhere you pick will be such an experience. SO, GO!
DOLLA, DOLLA BILLS
Going off the abroad suggestion, where you will blow an obscene amount of your savings, I come to the money. BU is extremely expensive, everyone who goes here knows that. It’s good to watch your money, but don’t worry about it THAT much. Spend while you’re in school. Don’t not go out somewhere with your friends or do something because you think it’s a little expensive. It’s okay to spend a little money here and there. I am not a rich kid, but I’m not starving either. I always have job because I want to make sure I can go out to lunch on Newbury and take advantage of all this city and college life has to offer while I still can. For example, Asian takeout three nights a week. In all seriousness, I’m not promoting the $25 cover clubs every night, where you buy a $400 table for all your friends, etc. If you have to keep to a budget for reasons like a possible child, car payments, whatever—completely understandable. Splurge a little though; everyone needs to have fun once and awhile. Go ahead and stretch your money and be careful, but there is a big difference between being frugal and cheap. Avoid at all costs.
MARATHON MONDAY
Participate in Marathon Monday, and luckily for you it’s right around the corner. It’s a citywide holiday. Boston is the only place in the country that has off, which is great! It’s a “drink all day, play all night” kind of event. One could describe it as a free for all. Every year BU sends around an email warning everyone. Basically don’t murder another human being, and you should be fine. Wake up early, start the drinking, a little mimosa, a little Bellini, and then hit the brewskies and hit them hard (for those of you over twenty-one, of course). My advice, actually participate! FOR REAL. I know too many people who are coming up on their senior year in Boston and still have yet to have a legitimate Marathon Monday experience. So get a good night’s sleep before, buy the right liquid preparations, wear comfortable clothes, bring a backpack of sorts, grab your sunglasses and get ready to go.
HOCKEY
I am a huge hockey fan, so going to the games was no dread for me. However, if you are not a sports lover I suggest you go to at least one home ice hockey game or the Beanpot tournament at the TD Garden. BU is not a very “rah, rah” spirited campus, so the hockey games will be the most school spirit you will experience during college. It is at least worth witnessing once. Plus, the games are great and the players are so adorable.
Those are just a few pointers. You’ll learn the real down and dirty stuff as you go along. It will be fun. I am super jealous of your underclassmen lives and wish I could start all over again. Enjoy it kids because it really does go by in a flash.