Since moving into college a month ago, I’ve already learned a few things about college life and Boston. If you’re planning on making the move to the city, too, here are my tips!
- Hold Onto Something When You Ride the T
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I was very excited to ride the T for the first time. I had never been on a subway before, and I couldn’t wait to try it out. Trying to seem like I knew what I was doing, I hopped onto the crowded train car, and, seeing as there weren’t many open spots to hold on, I let someone else stand closer to the pole while I stood right in the middle. As soon as we jolted forward, I stumbled, almost knocking over the group of people in front of me. Now, maybe you have better balance than I do, but I suggest holding on at least for the first couple of T rides just to make sure.
- Get outside
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During the first few days of classes, I would always head back to my dorm either right after class or after grabbing lunch. However, after the second week, when it got a little cooler outside, I started taking my homework outside. I discovered some great study spots, like the BU Beach, and enjoyed walks along the Esplanade. I am so much more productive when I do work outside, so when it’s nice weather, I highly recommend hitting the books out in nature.
- Be prepared to walk
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I had no clue how much walking I would do when I arrived in the city. One day, without realizing it, I walked over 30,000 steps. Though this may seem like a lot, it is actually a good thing. When you walk around, you get to discover new places that you might not have if you were driving or on the T.
- The weather is unpredictable
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During my first month here, there was a hurricane, it’s been hot, it’s been windy, it’s been cloudy, and it’s been a mix of different types of weather all in one day. When I packed for school, I was only really thinking about making sure I had clothes to wear when fall weather arrived, specifically the cold, leaving me a little unprepared for the 90 degree days we experienced at the beginning of the semester. Boston weather, as far as I can tell, is unpredictable. I try to have outfits with layers so that I can adjust as the weather changes throughout the day.
- be open to trying new things
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When I came to college, I was nervous and excited about all the new opportunities I had. I have already tried new things that were a little out of my comfort zone and, as a result, had some little adventures. For example, I’m an intern at the school radio station, which is something I never thought I would do before getting here, and I tried a lobster roll (which can be served cold or warm, another thing I learned) for the first time. Both Boston and college have so many things to offer, try stuff out!
Starting a life in a new city always takes some adjusting. Hopefully, my tips from what I’ve learned in my short time here help!
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