As I write this article, the skies in Lewisburg are cloudy and gray. While we may experience a few scattered snowy days filled with sledding through the grove and beautiful pictures of the snow-covered quad, January and February in Lewisburg can be tough. Between adjusting to a new schedule and coping with the dreary weather, it is more important than ever to find intentional moments of joy and community. Luckily for us, Lewisburg and Bucknell have lots to offer this time of year!
Lean in to Clubs and Campus Activities
A new semester is the perfect time to try something new! Lots of clubs accept new members in the beginning of the semester, so check out the InNetwork or look for students tabling in the ELC. Whether it is applying to be an Orientation Assistant, an Admissions Ambassador, a writer for Her Campus, or something entirely different, joining a new organization is a great way to find a new community on campus. Additionally, the CAP Center hosts a variety of campus events, from Bingo Blingo to the upcoming Yung Gravy Concert, that are great to attend with a group of friends. If you want to go solo, Seventh Street Makerspace has events and classes every week, where you can try out everything from ceramics to basket weaving. It is so easy to overlook all of the many events happening on campus, but, as a professor recently reminded me, this is a unique time in your life when you have endless opportunities for entertainment, learning, and creativity placed in front of you.
Explore Downtown Lewisburg
As much as I like to think I know Lewisburg, there are so many shops, restaurants, and buildings that I have never entered. Did you know that there are four pizza places just on Market Street? If you are looking for a nice way to spend a chilly afternoon, let yourself wander down Market Street to explore all the different thrift stores, watch a film at the Campus Theater, or get lost in the Street of Shops.
Check out the Lewisburg Farmers’ Market
While you’re downtown, cross Market Street and take a nice walk on the Rail Trail towards the Lewisburg Farmers’ Market. Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Farmer’s Market is a great place to grab breakfast and explore, all while supporting the community. Even in the snow, local vendors will be there selling everything from coffee to fresh produce to perogies and more.
Bundle Up and Get Outside!
Lewisburg and the surrounding area are home to many great hiking trails, including Dale’s Ridge and R. B. Winter State Park. Dale’s Ridge is a personal favorite of mine: it is only a few minutes from campus, and the easy two-mile loop offers amazing views of the area. If it feels too cold for a hike, you can always hop in your car and drive to the overlook of nearby Shikellamy State Park for another great perspective. In addition, Bucknell’s Outdoor Education and Leadership program (OEL) coordinates trips for students all semester long, so if you are looking to hike, ski, or just spend time outside, check out their upcoming activities and excursions.
Find Reasons to Celebrate
My roommates and I started the semester by creating a colorful calendar filled with birthdays, campus events, date parties, and every silly holiday we could think of. I truly believe that nothing cheers me up like a busy Google Calendar, and when there are not many things going on, there is no reason why we cannot create reasons to celebrate! Throw a dorm-room dinner party, have a Galentine’s Day gift exchange, or plan the ultimate watch party for the Bachelor or the Super Bowl. Celebrating the small things has the potential to make even the cloudiest and busiest weekday feel just a little bit brighter.