Joe P: Boston-Area Sporting Events To Watch For November

They say Boston is the City of Champions, and while the days of Tom Brady winning Super Bowls for the New England Patriots is over, Boston sports are still synonymous with success. Aside from the professional teams, the countless college sports teams competing in the area mean exciting sporting events are happening every day.

Here are some events you should look to check out in November, whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just like the atmosphere of big games:

Monday, November 7 – BU Men’s/Women’s Basketball vs. Northeastern – Case Gym

Basketball season is right around the corner, and both the men’s and women’s teams at BU will be tipping off their slate during a Monday doubleheader at Case Gym.

Both teams should be competitive in the Patriot League, and starting the year against a local non-conference rival will make things all the more exciting.

The women play at 4:30 p.m. followed by the men at 7. 

Monday, November 7 – Boston Bruins vs. St. Louis Blues – TD Garden

In a rematch of the 2019 Stanley Cup Final, where the Blues beat the Bruins 4-3 in the best-of-seven series, emotions still run high in the city of Boston when St. Louis comes to town.

Several key players from both sides of that championship matchup are no longer with their team, but a lot of good players remain, and the Bruins currently have the best record in the entire NHL (5-1-0).

Not to mention, former BU Terriers Matt Grzelcyk, Charlie Coyle and A.J. Greer all play for the Bruins, and injured Charlie McAvoy will be returning soon. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Friday, November 11 – Boston Celtics vs. Denver Nuggets – TD Garden

The Celtics fell just short of the 2022 NBA Championship, but return what should be a competitive team in the Eastern Conference. Coming from the West is Denver and the two-time reigning league MVP, Nikola Jokic.

With Jokic going against Boston’s Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, there’s no shortage of star power in this matchup that will be fun to watch for even the casual fan. Tip off is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Saturday, November 19 – Harvard Football vs. Yale – Harvard Stadium

While Cambridge is not Boston, the Harvard football stadium is located in the Allston neighborhood of Boston, and with no football team at BU, this historic matchup must be circled on the calendar.

The first meeting between the two Ivy League rivals took place in 1875, and “The Game” is among the longest-standing and most-respected college football matchups in the country.

With “The Game” alternating host sites each year, and with the pandemic canceling Ivy League sports in 2020, Harvard has not hosted “The Game” since 2018 when the two sides played at Fenway Park. With this year being the first time back at Harvard Stadium since 2016, it’s hard to resist going out to witness the latest chapter of a historic sporting tradition. Kick-off time is yet to be determined.

Wednesday, November 23 – BU Men’s Hockey vs. Notre Dame – Agganis Arena

The BU men’s hockey team is currently ranked top 10 in the country, and with renewed hopes under first-year head coach Jay Pandolfo, the Terriers will be welcoming a high-profile opponent to Agganis Arena before Thanksgiving.

The Fighting Irish are currently ranked 13th in the country, and are one of the best teams on the Terriers’ schedule. Kick off Thanksgiving weekend watching two iconic programs face off. Puck drop is at 5 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday, November 26 & 27 – Boston Pride vs. Toronto Six – Warrior Ice Arena

Finally, make sure to check out the weekend series of the two-time reigning Premier Hockey Federation champions face off against Toronto. Boston’s professional women’s ice hockey team is by far the most accomplished in the PHF’s short history.

Playing in nearby Brighton, the Pride boast former Terriers Sammy Davis, the 2020 First Overall Pick, and Kaleigh Fratkin. The Saturday game starts at 7 p.m., and the Sunday puck drop is 2 p.m.

 

Meryl B: How to Get an Internship

Internships provide a great way to gain exposure to a variety of industries, open doors to future opportunities, and also show future employers you are serious about gaining experience and increasing your professional skills. Wondering where to begin? Here is a list of platforms to help you look for internships, as well as providing a great way to network with people across different fields to learn more about career paths. 

  1. LinkedIn 

LinkedIn not only connects you with recruiters and future employers, but with friends, former employers, professors and business figures, thereby broadening your reach and exposure. Based on your search criteria, it will send relevant job/internship postings. You can also link in with friends who will appear in your notifications so you can see their updates. Therefore, you are kept informed of changes in their roles and recent accomplishments. You can also let recruiters know that you are open to new positions. Additionally, if you choose to purchase the premium subscription, you can see who has viewed your profile. 

  1. Handshake 

Discovering all types of work opportunities, including paid internships, is made simple through Handshake. To ensure your application is competitive, the platform frequently collaborates with career services at Boston University. One of the numerous advantages Handshake offers is the ability to submit a resume and cover letter for evaluation before applying. Additionally, employers post on Handshake their events/career fairs, so you can shake hands and network. 

  1. MonsterCollege 

Finding employment and internships might be as terrifying as the monster you once believed lurked in the shadows as a child. However, MonsterCollege offers an easier alternative, improving your experience through its customized approach. Specifically created for college students and recent graduates, the site enables you to learn about a variety of occupations, get interview tips, speak with other job seekers, and even find a job. Therefore, taking the fear out of job hunting, creating a positive experience and bringing opportunities to light. 

  1. Creatively 

Creatively connects creative artists of all stripes — animators, fashion designers, web designers, fine artists, writers and producers — with companies and individuals who need their services. The website was launched by Stacey Bendet, the founder of the clothing line Alice + Olivia, and assists jobseekers when applying for positions with national and international firms. Signing up and creating a profile is free for artists, and the platform makes it easy to showcase your portfolio. Employers and brands subscribe to the platform to interact with creatives and find interested candidates.

 

Melina N: Take care of yourself, from someone who also needs that reminder

Congratulations on making it to BU campus – and to university in general! Every single student has worked extremely hard to get here. I can only imagine the countless nights of studying, cramming and stress combined among all of us. Not only did you have to complete college applications, but that came with hours of schoolwork, extracurriculars, sports, performance arts or part-time work. 

Once you get here, there are a variety of pathways you could take. Some decide to take it easy and focus on their social life or explore the city. Some decide to stay indoors and live an independent adult life for the first time by grocery shopping and adulting. 

For many others (including me), I’ve kept trucking along into college. I am involved in several clubs, try to make time for friends and fit in grocery shopping and eating out when I can. I feel like I can overextend sometimes; my friends are always lecturing me about sleeping more or eating well. 

So, as someone who understands the hustle and bustle of daily life as a BU student, here are some tips and reminders for any of you that feel like you need a mental health check. 

  1. Drink your water! 

I definitely forget to drink enough water (don’t blame me … it makes my stomach feel too full). However, it is definitely a habit that needs to be a conscious effort. Healthy water intake helps wake your brain up and reduce headaches. And as someone who has had a couple of dehydration spells, that should not be a possible event in your already packed schedule. There are many water bottle refill stations around campus and even fun water flavoring mixes if you hate drinking plain water. 

  1. Take breaks. 

The clock strikes midnight. It’s down to the wire, and you have a project or midterm due the next day. You’re wavering between cramming in a bit more work or just calling it a night. Sometimes, when your brain is already fatigued, it’s best to just take a five minute break. I find the pomodoro method to be helpful – 25-minute chunks separated by five-minute breaks. This way, you can 

pace yourself and reset your train of thought before you burnout. And in the off-chance you find yourself in that “I need to study more before tomorrow’s test” loop, it’s best to put yourself first and go to bed. 

  1. Sleep enough.

This brings me to my last point. Sleep is essential! Nothing makes me happier than climbing into my cozy twin XL bed every night. Although I get six hours of sleep some nights, aiming for eight is optimal. Be realistic and prepare yourself for the days when you can’t take care of yourself fully, but your mental health (and physical health) are the most crucial aspects of college life. If you aren’t healthy, you can’t be the best student you can be!

 

Miya F: Looking for the best Boston eats?

MY FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT ON AND OFF CAMPUS 

When I first came to BU, I was overwhelmed with the amount of  food option on and around campus. There were so many dining  halls, fast food chains, and restaurants all within walking distance  and I had no idea what to do or where to go. As a senior (oh wow  that hurt to type out), I have definitely tried my fair share of  restaurants on and off campus and have strong opinions on what is  worth checking out.  

  1. GSU 

First, I am going to start with my favorite place to eat on  campus: The George Sherman Union (aka the GSU). The GSU is  where you can find pretty much everyone at BU on a school day.  Think of it as BU’s own food court. There are places to grab food  from like the Halal Guys, Panda Express, Starbucks, and Rhett’s  Diner. Just to name a few. When I come to the GSU, nine times out  of ten, I get an impossible burger and french fries from Rhett’s  Diner. The GSU is the perfect place to grab a quick bite with friends  and run into everyone you have ever met. Seriously though. You  will see everyone from your freshman year roommate, to your  orientation leader, to your class crush. Warning: Come to the GSU at  your own risk. 

  1. Nud Pob 

Freshman year, Nud Pob was THE spot. They have super delicious  and quick Thai dishes that always hit the spot. My favorite dishes  are the crab Rangoons, pad Thai, and red curry (extra spicy) with  tofu. It is located right across from the GSU in central campus so it  is super easy and convenient to pick up from. They also are  available on GrubHub so you can order ahead and then pick up! 

  1. Pho Viet 

I’m half Vietnamese and my grandmother makes the best pho  in the entire world. If you don’t know what that is it’s a traditional  Vietnamese soup dish with rice noodles, meat, vegetables, and  herbs. It is the ultimate comfort food and something I always miss  eating when I come to Boston. Luckily, I have been able to find a  place nearby school (on Comm Ave near West Campus) that has  amazing pho. I order the spicy beef pho but substitute the beef with  tofu. I swear that bowl of pho heals my soul every time. It is perfect  if you are feeling under the weather or are missing some comfort  food.  

  1. Buttermilk and Bourbon 

When my friends and I want to go to Newbury, this is where  you can find us half of the time. Buttermilk and Bourbon is known  for New Orleans style dishes and everything on their menu is 

AMAZING. I recommend getting their prime burger sliders,  Nashville hot alligator fries (I know it sounds weird but it tastes like  popcorn chicken), warm honey glazed biscuits, and fresh fried  beignets. If you want to get your steps in before this heavy meal it is  only about a mile walk from east campus! Otherwise, it is a quick 7  minute uber. Definitely recommend going for the food and funky  atmosphere! 

  1. Joe’s on Newbury 

So where do we go the other half of the time? The answer is  always: Joe’s on Newbury. Joe’s is perfect for large parties like  birthday dinners. They have a large menu with so many classics you  can literally never go wrong. I always order a crock of French onion  soup and get a side of loaded mashed potatoes (you can’t go wrong  with cheesy mashed potatoes and bacon). I am also giving a special  shoutout to their buffalo chicken dip as well. It is the perfect  appetizer. I took my family here when they came to visit for parent’s  weekend and they were also huge fans. So it is definitely a crowd  pleaser.

 

Jess S: A BU Guide to Late-Night Munchies and After-Party Extravaganzas

Here’s the best part about living in the center of a big city: late-night munchies.
Picture this, it’s 1 am on a Saturday night, your feet are sore from walking across campus, and the only thing on your mind (besides the freezing air) is the sound of your empty stomach. Trudging your way back to your dorm means settling for the frozen microwavable sitting in your tiny micro-fridge, which seems far from a satisfying option. Don’t worry hungry homie, I’ve discovered the best places to get your fix-ins before 2 am in the morning.

1. Victoria’s Seafood Restaurant
This classic Chinese restaurant has a menu that runs almost the same length as a novel. To all my fellow Chinese students who miss the taste of home-cooked restaurant quality food, Vicky’s is the place to go. Open until 1 am, this restaurant will definitely satisfy your salty cravings with their famous fried rice, mapo tofu, and my personal favorite – salt and pepper squid deep fried in crunchy batter. Oozing with traces of savory deliciousness, this place will bring the comfort of
authentic Chinese food directly to your taste buds in only a matter of minutes. And believe me when I say you know it’s good food when the servers don’t need to coddle their customers because they are confident people will come back for the mere smell of their chef’s cooking.

2. El Jefe’s
An excellent place for my burrito-loving students. I like to call this restaurant Chipotle on steroids. El Jefe’s just screams authentic, not only because their ingredients are top-quality, but because the workers definitely know what’s good. Just from the look of their array of toppings, you can immediately tell how fresh everything is – from the hefty servings of hot pulled pork to
the bright and colorful pico de gallo. For the price, which rounds out to about $10-$13 dollars each, you can easily split a bowl into two meals and still feel full from the large serving of pinto beans. If you’re looking for a hearty bowl of Mexican flavors catered to your taste, El Jefe’s is one to try.

3. BBQ Chicken
I believe the trend of restaurants in the west is an unfair advantage to those who live all the way across the bridge. But worry no more my fellow easters, because Kenmore has got your back. BBQ chicken is THE place to get your chicken fix-in. I would strongly suggest you take a good number of people here so you get to try each and every chicken flavor. This Korean restaurant serves flavors like cheesy snow, honey garlic, and my personal favorite – “secret sauce”. The tangy, sweet, and spicy combination leaves you craving more and each morsel of crunch is
perfectly coated in their signature sauce. A good serving of 20 pieces can definitely last you a few days if you’re planning on ordering in on a Saturday night. But asides from their star dish, I would not pass up on the Korean sides like their Rose Tteokboki, a creamy and spicy base littered with pieces of rice cakes, fish cakes, and topped with cheese.

4. Insomnia Cookies
It would be a crime to college culture if we were to end the night without something sweet. Insomnia Cookies are a staple at Boston University. This late-night dessert place brings students from both ends of campus given its prime location. Located right by the central campus, Insomnia Cookies serves one of the best sweet treats in a wide variety of flavors. From the classic chocolate chip to HERSHEY’S Reeses pieces, you’ll find yourself craving these gooey pieces of baked sugar even as you walk by campus and unintentionally steal a whiff of
their fresh batch. Insomnia welcomes customers until 1 am on weekdays and 3 am on the weekends. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, grab a bite of their ice cream sandwhiches or limited edition flavors. Just don’t forget to wash it down with a cold glass of fresh milk – the perfect end to a night out.

This only touches the surface to what Boston has to offer those searching for a treat amidst the bustling lights of college nightlife. These top tier restaurants will definitely leave a mark on your time at BU, but the adventure doensn’t end here. This city is all about good food and even better people, so take my advice and make these food trips a group activity – a shared experience you will never forget.

Hannah Y: Where to Find the Best Bagels Around BU

As a self-proclaimed bagel aficionado, I’ve spent my fair share of time (and dollars) trying to find the best bagel on and around the BU campus.  

There are so many factors that can make or break a bagel — chewiness, crispiness, pillowy-ness, you name it. After taking into account those criteria, here’s my take on the world of BU bagels: 

Rhett’s 

Rhett’s is located in the GSU, making it one of the more accessible bagel stops for BU students. It offers a few basic choices (plain, onion, etc.) as well as cream cheese and some breakfast bagel options. While the bagels are serviceable in a pinch, they tend to be fairly chewy and there isn’t great variety — especially considering that Rhett’s frequently sells out of the most popular flavors. 

Best Bagel: Egg and cheese sandwich on Onion 

Einstein’s 

Located in the CAS Basement, Einstein’s is another easy one for BU students to pick up on the way to class. Einstein’s has a much greater variety of flavors, cream cheeses and sandwiches, plus an array of cold and hot drinks. The bagels are soft with just the right amount of chewiness, and they’re always warm when you arrive to pick them up. The only con I’d give is that the wait tends to take the longest out of all the shops on campus, so be prepared to order at least 25-30 minutes ahead. 

Best Bagel: Asiago bagel with cream cheese or as any sandwich 

Pavement 

While Pavement isn’t technically an on-campus location (meaning that dining points don’t apply), it’s right across from the GSU. It offers a smaller selection of bagels but has a few unique flavors and sandwiches that make it stand out, such as the ever-popular Rosemary Salt. If you can find a seat inside, Pavement is a great place to study, grab a bagel, and also order one of their coffee and tea drinks. The con? Pavement is on the pricier side, especially considering that college students comprise the vast majority of its customer base. 

Best Bagel: Sunrise sandwich on Rosemary Salt 

Kupel’s 

If you’re willing to travel farther off campus, Kupel’s is a cute, stop-in bagel shop off of Harvard Avenue in Brookline. A traditional Jewish bagel shop, Kupel’s offers Kosher options and a variety of bagel flavors and Jewish pastries, such as hamantaschen. While the only disadvantage of the place that I’ve experienced is the farther commute time, it’s more than worth the wait and you can save time by ordering ahead on the Kupel’s website. 

Best Bagel: Honestly, you can’t really go wrong with anything 

Finally, if you’re looking for a sit-down option, Zaftigs (also off of Harvard Avenue in Brookline) is the way to go. 

Good luck, bagel adventurers! 

 

Mia C: Top 5 Overlooked Must Have Items for a College Wardrobe

One of the most daunting tasks for incoming college freshmen every year happens before classes even start. Packing your entire life to move to a new environment is challenging, especially when it comes to your closet. With limited closet space, every item should be purposeful and functional. As a college sophomore that has mastered the ability to pack light, I have compiled
my top five often forgotten but helpful items that are essential to any college closet.

1. A zip up jacket
Regardless of where you go to college, a zip up jacket that you can throw over anything is a must. For class, it is always best to dress in layers because while it may be hot outside, most buildings are often freezing cold inside. A zip up allows you to be prepared and dress for both climates.

2. A baseball cap.
One of the best perks about being in college is that you can finally wear a hat in class! This is a lifesaver in your eight am lecture or if you need to hide your dirty, unwashed hair. It can also serve as an accessory to your outfit or just something to shield your face from the sun.

3. A pair of professional pants.
Something that people do not think about when packing clothes for college is professional events. Paired with a sweater, you can wear these pants to a networking event, presentation or a job interview. The possibilities are endless. This will also save you time and money compared to the scramble of buying these last minute.

4. A raincoat
A shocking fact that I learned is that not everyone thinks to bring a raincoat to college. When needed, a raincoat is incredibly useful to not only keep yourself dry but to also protect your laptop and books while walking around campus. It can also double as a thin jacket for layering
when needed.

5. A dress or some formal clothes
Many Greek life organizations, professional clubs, and student groups may host a formal during the semester. A formal is a party hosted and thrown by the group where attendees typically wear a dress similar to a homecoming dress or suit. Packing clothes you know you are comfortable and confident in will make your life easier down the road.

Colbi E: Reflecting on My College Career

I’m now a senior in college, and everyday I wake up shocked that the past four years have flown by so quickly. My experience at Boston University has been incredible — I’ve met the most amazing friends, traveled the world during study abroad, ran my college newspaper and am now interning with a national outlet.

But when I first got to BU I was not living the fantasy I had imagined. I’m an out of state student, and I didn’t know anyone else coming to Boston for school. I quickly grew homesick and worried I had made a mistake. I didn’t immediately have a group of friends to call my own or have plans every day of the week, which made me feel like I was missing out on the college experience. 

I felt like an outsider at times, and I was truly worried I would never adjust to college. At one point I wanted to transfer to a school back in my home state of Texas to be closer to friends and family. 

But, I stuck it out at BU because I wanted to challenge myself. Ever since I was 15 years old I knew I wanted to go to school out of state, and I knew BU had so many opporutntieis for me — I just needed to take them.

Now, four years later, I have friends I can call family in Boston, and I’m so proud of my achievements. My life would’ve been so different had I gone to school in Texas or transferred after my freshman year. But I am so happy that I’m on this path; I’m proud of myself for moving halfway across the country and starting a new life for myself. It was difficult in the beginning and still is at times, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. 

To all of the highschool seniors or current college freshmen, if you’re scared about going to school out of state or if your experience isn’t shaping out to be what you wanted that’s completely normal. You’re not alone in that struggle to find your college fairytale. Just trust yourself, be confident and you’ll find a space where you thrive.

 

Aidan W: How to Stop Being Indecisive (College Edition)

If you know me, you know I have probably asked you a million times, “what do you think I should do?"

From picking a latte or an iced tea, to whether I should study abroad or not...whatever the decision is, I never want to be the one to make it.

But I'm here to share how I’ve started deciding on things recently without harassing my friends and family first.

Now, to preface, advice from others can be so helpful, but they shouldn't be deciding everything for you. You want to know what's best for you.

  1. What is your gut saying?

It may sound cliche– but this can be the quickest solution. Ask yourself again out loud or in your head what you're deciding between, and then don't think; just answer. Usually, the first thing you think of comes from that gut feeling, regardless of the banter that follows, like “well, what if…” or other hypotheticals.

  1. Pros and Cons

But if you want to get into the spiraling banter that comes with being indecisive, at least make a super simple pro and con list. Not a laundry list, but just name what good and what bad will come out of the situation to give it more clarity.

  1. Life is short

So depending on the decision, sometimes it can help to say “life is short.” And unfortunately, college is even shorter. 

Sometimes I even pose the question I heard from the Office S4E13, “You can buy new stuff, but you can't buy a new party! 

In maybe more relatable terms, if you run into your friend on Comm Ave, it might be nice to get coffee with them instead of studying. You could study for a test anytime, but how often do you see that friend? (But please study for your tests)

  1. Talk it out, but write it down.

It will be you and yourself talking it out…but on paper. Resist the urge to call your friend, your mom, whoever. Instead, grab a pen and paper and get those thoughts out of your brain.

If you don't like journaling...good luck, Charlie. Kidding! Horrible transition to how I mean to say, instead of journaling, video journal! Talk out your life on camera booth. It can be cathartic.

Either video or classic journaling can help clarify what you want to decide on. 

  1. Sleep on it.

My best advice yet is to sleep on it. We all need more rest anyway.

However, I recommend completing option four before this one so you can at least sleep without your thoughts running around in your head.

But anyways, sometimes, after a good night's rest, you'll wake up with a fresh set of eyes, a clear head, and ready to make a decision.

So there it is, five ways to be more decisive when facing your next big “what should I do?” 

Hopefully, you can decide on which option to use!

Helena B: How to get your first internship — taking advantage of BU platforms.

When I was in high school, one of the things I was most excited about for when I arrived at university was experiencing what it meant to be an intern. Regardless of how much I would get paid, if at all, or what responsibilities I would be given, I loved the idea of gaining my first experiences in the Film industry as soon as possible. 

I found that once I was actually in college and handed all these opportunities it was overwhelming to think about. Why would anyone want to hire an 18-year-old with virtually no experience? My biggest revelation was noticing how much better it is to focus on smaller, more achievable goals before getting devastated by the pressures of having to immediately get hired by big-name companies.

So that's exactly what I did, and it made the experience so much more rewarding, and a lot less stressful. I started by using the ‘BU Connects’ platform to contact any people in the film industry who went to my same university. I didn’t ask them for a job, or ask if they could help me get one, but I communicated to them my hopes and dreams for the future and listened to their advice on skills that I might need or experiences and issues they faced when they were in my same situation. 

This helped me gain confidence, and also allowed me to concentrate my resumé and cover letter on aspects that I knew would be appreciated by employers in the industry. My next step was to use another of Boston University’s helpful platforms, ‘VMock’ , and work on making my resumé as good as I could. Remember not to get too overwhelmed with making it flawless just yet. It’s a long and tedious process, but instead of striving for perfection I tried to focus on a few main achievements. I created a resumé ( and cover letter) that truly reflects my interests and skills. From here, I started searching for opportunities!

For my first internship I wanted to focus on something a bit more local, smaller, where I could really get to know the community and also have a good first experience without getting super overwhelmed. I strived away from companies I knew too well, and explored parts of the industry and types of companies that really reflected my interests. 

I searched on the last BU Platform I will mention, ‘Handshake’, for smaller scale internship opportunities, and also did my independent research in order to find opportunities in greater Boston. I applied to as many as I found. 

A helpful reminder for me was to wish for a response without expecting one. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great to strive to achieve great things and it is also important to be confident when applying to these opportunities, but in the end rejection is part of the process, so don’t let it beat you down! 

Remember, the right place for you will show up in unexpected ways!