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If there’s one thing that every college kid can agree on is that caffeinated beverages are a key factor for getting through a busy week. Whether you prefer lattes, tea, cappuccinos or the classic dark roast blend, Boston University provides multiple ways for students to get their fix for a little boost of energy. I am known as a “coffee guru,” so a big part of why I chose BU is because there is a Starbucks between Warren Towers and COM. However, while students waste their time wating in out-the-door lines at starbucks locations all around campus, I escape them in my own secret coffee spot.

My go-to spot for both my breakfast and lunch needs is a place called RiZe- a café located in the basement of the Center for Student Services building found at 100 Bay State Road. I consider this place to be one of BU’s greatest “hidden gems” because there’s never a long line and they have the best food on campus. When you walk down the stairs, it is impossible to miss the lime green paint and chalkboard walls that welcome you to the bakery. Their expresso menu is identical to Starbucks, but the variety of options does not stop there. They have about every bakery item you could imagine, and the assortment of goods changes each season so there’s always something new to try. A personal favorite treat of mine was the pumpkin mousse that they had in the fall. Each dessert can be deliciously paired with a cup of coffee or save for a post-lunch snack. In addition to their grab-and-go bakery options, you can also pre-order custom Birthday cakes for mini celebrations with friends!

Which leads me to the lunch menu- RiZe also has a wide variety of sandwiches and salads that you can order “for here” or “to go.” Next to your choice of meal, you can pick between homemade chips or a side salad- both are amazing options. I always choose the Back Bay Chicken Sandwich and side salad because it is my favorite meal on campus. The menu has so many options that is really easy to branch out and try something new.

The cozy corner filled with tables and chairs makes RiZe a peaceful place to get homework done or take a break after a long day of classes. If I didn’t sell you on BU’s greatest café yet, RiZe also takes dining points which is a part of every dining plan at BU so you can save your cash for weekend trips to Newbury.

I’m eagerly anticipating my return to RiZe for the spring semester and hoping to be welcomed back by a batch of fresh red velvet cookies!

http://www.bu.edu/dining/where-to-eat/retail-dining/rize/

So Boston is supposed to get a “historically” big storm this week, which means campus is buzzing now that we are officially having a snow day.  The last time we had such a big storm, I was a freshman and it was when nor’easter “Nemo” hit, drowning Boston in nearly 25 inches of snow.  This time they are expecting 20 to 30 inches again.

With classes just starting, I won’t have much work to catch up on, but should the storm hold and there is no class, I can think of a few things that I can do with the free time.

Get Organized

Like I said, we’re only a week into the semester so I shouldn’t have a mess, but at the same time dumping things on my desk and chair are much easier than actually putting them away.  I can also take advantage of my newly clean room and organize things so that the rest of the semester goes smoothly.

Apply to Internships

With January coming to a close, a lot of big companies are starting to close their internship application windows, so it’s time to get those last few applications in for summer internships. Now that I’m a junior, internships continue to become more and more important as they help me learn not only what I’m really good at, but what I want to do in terms of my career in the future.

Binge Watch Netflix

Once all of the busy work is done, that’s when I can cozy up in bed with some hot chocolate, away from all of the madness outside, and watch as much Netflix as my heart desires.  Right now, I’ve been on a comedy kick and have been watching Parks and Recreation. #Knope2012 (I know I’m far behind).

My freshman year, my roommate and I were really excited to explore Boston and take advantage of the city. We took to the city streets so often that we actually missed out on a lot of the opportunities offered right on campus.This year my roommate and I have decided, as our New Year’s Resolution, to try to go to as many BU events as possible. We both checked out the BU Calendar to make a list of some of our ‘must go’ events.

For 30 years, Boston University students have been starting the Winter Semester off right by putting on their dancing shoes and their fanciest outfits for the Back Bay Ball. This year, the event was held at 808 Gallery, right on campus. Tickets normally are around $20 but this year it was FREE!

The dance was so popular this year, Student Activities actually had to make the event BU Student only because so many people had RSVPd.

When I got the following e-mail I was definitely stoked:

“Hey Back Bay Ballers!

As you might know by now we have completely filled our RSVP spots. While we’ve said this before, we want to emphasize it again: your RSVP does NOT guarantee entry. While the gallery can hold over 1000 people, we had a lot more people than that RSVP. Get there early to guarantee your spot in the event! If there is a line don’t be discouraged – we will do our best to get as many people in the door as possible.”

A few of my friends and I all got ready together in my dorm room and headed down to 808 Gallery around 9:00pm. By the time we got there the line to get in was already down to the gas station on Comm Ave. Nevertheless, BU students waited in line (short dresses and heels) for the excitement inside.

The Gallery was completely packed! There was a live band playing and trust me, the dance floor was popping. There was also a professional photographer taking group photos and a caricature artist. Food and drinks were provided (did I tell you this was free?). For those who are 21+ , there was a cash bar available! I mean is this BU Campus or a swanky new club? When I was inside I honestly couldn’t tell.

The night was so much fun, my friends and I danced until we had blisters and then gorged on the endless free cookies, hummus, and other goodies.

SO MUCH FUN! AND FREE!

There are so many amazing events put on at BU, you honestly could have the time of your life without even leaving campus or paying for a taxi. I really recommend taking time to look at the BU Calendar and the Student Activities website to check out some of the upcoming events. There is something for everyone and most of the events are free!

Check out my next COM Ambassador blog post to hear about my next BU adventure!

And the Academy Award goes to…Boston University!

Just kidding, that wouldn’t make sense. But it sure seems like someone should give our university an honorable Oscar or something! This award season, BU alumni are ruling the nomination game. From producers to actors, former students have worked on some of the best films of the year. We couldn’t be more proud, and I couldn’t be more inspired by these wildly successful professionals who were, at one time, just like me! These people may have sat through COM 101, or maybe they had an internship that I am looking into. These nominees have definitely pumped me up for the future; if these Terriers can do it, clearly BU is doing something right! Who’s to say you or I won’t be next?

Two of the three major alumni nominations came from some of our very own: past COM attendees Nora Grossman and Bonnie Arnold.

Grossman, who graduated in 2005, is the producer of “The Imitation Game” starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley. In my opinion, the film was a fantastic one to see, telling an exciting yet informative story of a lesser-known World War II hero. With great acting, a dynamic plot, and noticeably impressive production value, this feature enabled me to walk out of the theatre with my BU head held high. Named by Variety as one of 10 producers to watch, Grossman started doing research for the project in 2009. Clearly, her work was a success, and now her company has started an original project for J.J. Abrams’s Bad Robot. They are also developing a TV series at Sky Atlantic in the U.K…not too shabby!

“The Imitation Game” received five nominations at the Golden Globes, and has now earned eight Oscar noms too! If it wins Best Picture, look out for Grossman’s acceptance speech!

Next, Bonnie Arnold earned a nomination for her work as the producer of “How to Train Your Dragon 2.” Arnold earned an M.S. in journalism in 1978, and although you may not have seen this most recent film, you have definitely heard of her work elsewhere. Maybe you’ll recognize the name “Toy Story,” yes? I thought so. Arnold produced Toy Story in 1995, along with “Tarzan,” “Over the Hedge,” “The Last Station,” and the first “How to Train Your Dragon,” just to name a few. Her nomination for Best Animated Film is incredibly exciting, but it may not beat the excitement of her work on “How to Train Your Dragon 3,” which is set for 2017!

Finally, the gorgeous Julianne Moore is nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role in “Still Alice.” A College of Fine Arts graduate in 1983, Moore roamed Commonwealth Avenue back in the day just like we do. Now, she shines on silver screens worldwide, and her work in this movie has already achieved outstanding success.

Clearly BU is well-represented in the entertainment sphere right now, and that doesn’t seem like it will change any time soon. With so many students interested in countless areas of the field, our list of accolades has the potential to grow exponentially. I would not be surprised if some of my own classmates were making similar acceptance speeches one day, and who knows, maybe I’ll be up there with them! But even without focusing on awards, the outstanding art produced by our alumni network is something to be proud of.

Its awards season, folks, and we are Com Students. Our time is now. With the Oscar nominees for best picture out, I am sure a lot of you have started to plan Oscar Parties. I have taken it upon myself to help you all brainstorm some fun, Oscar-Inspired dishes for your prospective parties that are easy and creative. LETS GO!!!

The Imitation (Cheese) Game:

Who doesn’t like a good cheese platter? Spice up your party platter by offering a childhood favorite that you may not of had in a long time, Cheese in a Can! Yeah, it can be gross, but it sure has some novelty and definitely makes a great pun!

Eggs Benedict Cucumber-batch

A twist on a classic, make some eggs benedict, and replace the ham with cucumbers. Or don’t and just have Eggs Benedict Cumberbatch.

 Boy-Hood© Ice Cream

Serve Hood Ice Cream for Dessert! IF you really want to stick with the Boyhood pun, find some ice cream that has been in your fridge since 2002. Pair with Eddie Red-Mango or Reese(s Peanut Butter Cup) Witherspoon

 Mark Buffalo Wings

You had to have seen this coming. Make some buffalo tenders or wings, and have them as your Best Supporting Dish

Go, my friends, and Michael kEATon!

Although I am from New Jersey and a die-hard Giants fan, I have to say that the atmosphere during Boston sports teams’ games is contagious and hard not to enjoy. With the Patriots in this year’s Super Bowl it is a great opportunity to experience the livelihood and tight-knit community of the city. Here are a few great spots to watch this years super bowl game at!

1. Sunset Cantina- Right on BU’s campus, this is the perfect option if you don’t feel like venturing too far from your dorm. There are TV’s all around the restaurant and their nachos are awesome!

2. The Lansdowne Pub- For those who are over 21, Lansdowne is having a Super Bowl party with free wings during half time! Located right in Fenway, this is another option for those who want to stay close to campus.

3. Ducali Pizzeria & Bar- If you feel like having pizza while watching the game, this is the place for you. The award winning North End pizzeria is an environment for those who don’t feel like being at a cramped and crowded restaurant.

4.  Your room! Sometimes staying in is the most appealing option for big nights like the Super Bowl. Dress up in Pats gear and huddle around the TV with some of your closest friends. Staying in means take out, snacks, and the ability to walk around comfortably.

GO PATS!

Hey everyone, it is Aidan again. As we enter December, it becomes that festive time of the year where snow falls, carols are sung, and decorative sweaters take the forefront of our closets. If you are like me, THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS WHERE WE COME ALIVE!!

Sorry, I’m just very excited. But Christmas and the holiday season is a big deal for me. Thus, I love to decorate and do various fun things in December to get in the mood of the holiday season. Last year, when attempting to make my life a little more festive, I learned some great things you can do to brighten up your dorm room and your life. On the flip side, I learned some things you should avoid at all costs. After years of trials and tribulations, I present to you the do’s and don’ts of Holiday-ing at College

DO: Hang String Lights

Wow, this is actually the best thing that will happen in your life. String lights are a great way to make your dorm room a little more festive. Plus, after the holiday season is over, you can keep them up. They are a great way to light your room in lieu of the clinical, off-white fluorescents that make the average BU dorm room feel slightly like a sickly waiting room at a doctor’s office.

DON’T: Buy a small tree for your room

Inevitably, every BU student will pass that flower shop on Com Ave. As you get closer, you will hear they are plating Christmas music, and you will start to smell the Christmas trees they have out from. DO NOT BUY A TREE. One sad, sad thing I learned from last year is that, you will buy a tree, put it in your room or common room, enjoy it for the two weeks before Winter Break, and then return from Winter Break 1 month later to a dead tree. I don’t know about you, but coming back to school for the spring semester and having your first image be of the death of Christmas is a little off-putting. Just go downtown and enjoy Boston’s giant tree, or maybe just wait to be home.

DO: Find Some Holiday Swag

Guys, Goodwill. That’s all I have got to say. Christmas sweaters are everything, and BU is so hip to begin with I don’t think anybody will be judging you.

DON’T: Set your wake-up alarm to a Christmas Song

Hey, you know what’s fun to wake up to for about a week? Jingle Bell Rock. Hey, do you know what becomes incessantly annoying to wake up to after a week? Jingle Bell Rock. It all starts out as fun and games, but after the 11^th time of your roommate being woken up way too early by your 7 am festive wake-up call, he or she may be very tempted to break that new iPhone 6 of yours.

If there is one thing I want everyone to take away, it is this: think before you festive. I hope you all have a wonderful break, and not-terrifying finals.

Meat and potatoes: The literal meat and potatoes are the crux of a classic Thanksgiving meal. The proverbial “meat and potatoes” represent my classes and my job — the two things I’ll overwhelm myself with most. Naturally, there is a selection of meats (classes) from which to choose, and I have different feelings about each. Of course I’m looking forward to the turkey (film and TV courses), especially the dark meat (screenwriting in particular). Then there’s the ham that seems particularly hard to chew, and the driest, most boring chicken breast I’ve ever seen (Latin 4 and my prevailing liberal arts requirements, respectively). The potatoes, just like my job working for admissions, will be fulfilling, rich, and topped with delicious gravy. I don’t have a parallel for gravy, but it’s mandatory and awesome.

Veggies: So many vegetables. And what even is that white one, mom? No I’m not going to add “cauliflower” to my diet. God. I already have too many EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES on my plate. (See what I did there?) Just as vegetables are difficult to eat at first because they taste like garbage, clubs and organizations at school are initially intimidating because you don’t know anyone. Thankfully, as a second semester senior, I’ll be well involved in each of my student groups, so there shouldn’t be any difficulty there. I’ll eat those steamed carrots, the peas and corn, and even the squash this time around. And I’ll enjoy every bite. Finishing out my time working with The Daily Free Press, BUTV, COM Ambassadors, etc. will no doubt be a satisfying and healthy experience. But I refuse to join to the knitting club, no matter how many times you implore me, mom.

Dessert: The dessert is the reward. It’s really the only reason we eat anything else in the first place, right? If I don’t come out of four years of college with some sort of sustainable income, I’ve probably done something wrong. That fruit plate with a slice of sugar-free bundt cake sure was a wholesome and safe option, just like the position with a top-ranking insurance company I’m currently considering selling my soul for after graduation. However, that fat ice cream dollop on top of the slice of triple chocolate cake next to a slice of peach-apple crisp all inside the world’s largest cinnamon bun sure does look sweeeeeet. But I’m worried people might judge me for doing what I want and taking the significantly more risky path and trying to become an independent writer, editor, and filmmaker. Mom, what do you think?

Anyone else come back to Boston with a new voice in the back of their head? One that’s constantly reminding you that the semester’s basically over and you could probably get away with sliding by for the next week and a half?

That voice is pretty persuasive.

We have a week and a half left to fight against the voice, so in the name of our GPAs, I think it’s time to talk war strategy.

Tactic One: Whip out those beginning-of-the semester grades.

You know the ones. The test you aced because you started studying for two weeks before. The paper with a fat A stamped across the top. All you need to do is look at the grade. Stare it down. Let it marinate. Remind yourself what you were capable of in those sun-kissed days of September.

Tactic Two: Study in sneakers (because you still have them on after your workout).

In the wise words of Elle Woods, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands” -or fail their finals. Spend a little time in FitRec, get the blood pumping to your brain, and then go have the most productive study session of your life.

Tactic Three:  Let the holidays motivate you.

The only thing better than giving and getting presents during break? Giving and getting presents while your parents smile proudly from across the family room, with visions of sugarplums and your good grades dancing in their heads. So while you crank out the semester’s final assignments, repeatedly remind yourself how awesome the holiday season is. Eat cookies. Decorate your room. Go to the Christmas tree lighting in the commons this Thursday. Overpower the slacker voice in your head, troops, and it’ll be here before you know it.