Alison C: 10 Things You Actually Need In Your Freshman Dorm Room

1. A Rug

Chances are, freshman year you will be in an average double with two beds along the walls and minimal floor space. Rugs can completely transform that space, making the room feel bigger and brighter. You can pick a light color or fun pattern and add as many matching decorations you want until your room feels homey and your own.

2. Fans (and a lot of them)

To be frank, when you first move into the antique BU dorm buildings at the end of August, it’s hot, and even warmer if you are on one of the top floors of a dorm (heat rises or whatever). I recommend getting multiple fans for your room. A rotating floor fan in addition to desk fans will keep air cycling through the whole room. These also come in handy if the heating system gets too warm in the winter, or if there is an unusually warm day at an unexpected time.

3. Power strip + lots of chords

You will have more things to charge than you even expect. If you have ample outlets and extra chords they will definitely come in handy. I recommend keeping extra chords for all of your tech in your backpack as well for days when you’re on the go.

4. Cart

Freshman year, I used a white rolling cart as both a nightstand and snack storage. It was the perfect place to keep my phone nearby during the night as well as little things like chapstick and lotion. The cart has open layers so when my friends came over they were free to grab snacks from the inside. If we wanted more floor space, I could also easily roll it into the corner.

5. Speaker

A speaker is obviously a dorm essential. My roommate and I like to listen to music while we do homework and we also love an occasional dance party (especially right before an exam). If you get a waterproof speaker, you can also liven up your showers with some music.

6. A Diffuser

This was a last minute purchase for my room, but ended up being one of my most used dorm pieces. If you take anything from this list, it should be this. I was terrified of my dorm room developing the classic dorm stench, especially when I was first making friends and inviting new people over to my room. With a diffuser, you can add any scent you want and make your room smell amazing.

7. A Mini Vacuum

Avoid the constant hassle of renting a vacuum from the dorm, and bring a small vacuum of your own. You can easily take care of little messes like crumbs and lint and easily improve the look of your room.

8. Dish drying rack

When you come back from the shower, your shower caddy and shower shoes are still soaking wet. To avoid mold growing and wet messes, I have a dish drying rack to set my stuff on after I get out of the shower. The more places in your room that are dedicated to specific things, the easier it is to put everything away and keep your room tidy.

9. Laundry bag with straps

Carrying your laundry bag to the laundry room is a humbling experience. I have a laundry bag that cinches at the top and has straps on the back so I can easily carry it down to the laundry room.

10. Dorm Shoes

I was always a barefoot indoors kind of person, but in college that is out of the question. I recommend having a pair of slip-on shoes that you can easily wear around your room and building (to the bathroom, mail room, dining hall, etc.). A pair of slippers, Crocs, Birkenstocks or clogs work super well.

Anaya W: What to Bring to College as an International First-Year Student

Dear college freshmen, 

Your first big realization will be that home is far. Whether it’s a 30 minute drive, a 4 hours train ride for a 14 hour flight- home is far, because your new life is close. While for some, that’s exciting, for others it’s a looming dread. I am an international student from Singapore, and I too, like many of you, had to pack my bags and move continents to try and figure out how to make a strange new place a home. Given that it takes me give or take 24 hours to get home, I packed wisely- and I will help you pack even better.

1. Pictures 

I know we have phones and iCloud accounts and memories in our hearts, but my favorite part of my room is my wall, stacked with pictures of the places I love, the food I miss and the people I care about. While you build something new, don’t forget to cherish the old, and pictures, postcards and mementos are a perfect way to do that. 

2. Your favorite snacks, obviously 

When I first moved to college, I was inundated with all the options of food and snacks I had never tried and went crazy trying it all! But then, one day I was sick and I wanted nothing more than my mum’s tomato soup. Another day I was craving the spicy indian food made by my grandmother and the granola we always had at home or the pineapple tarts I ate around Chinese New Year. Now some things CANNOT be brought across continents, but this semester, I brought with me a few of my favorite flavors that reminded me of home, and urge you to do the same.

3. Knick knacks and trinkets 

Decorating a new room can be very exciting, but it can also be a weird feeling to be sleeping on unfamiliar sheets and waking up seeing the typical college dorm furniture. I would recommend bringing a few small things that serve to make your room feel more like it did at home. Whether that’s an object from your travels or a token you received at graduation, bring the little things that make you, you. And, when people come to your room, they make for great stories! 

4. Cozy things that make you comfortable 

This piece of advice may seem a little silly, because you can easily buy whatever you may need here, but I definitely don’t regret bringing my favorite blanket, the pillow case I have used for years and more than one stuffed animal (they’re sentimental!). If, like me, it’s your first time adjusting to the cold, you may want to feel cozy and protected with items that feel familiar to you. And like everything else in this list, they will always remind you of home. 

5. Medications

This may differ based on where you call home, but personally, I grew up on homeopathy and herbal medicine, and bringing it with me made me feel far more secure when I felt sick. There are so many minor adjustments people don’t talk about like how the names of medications in different countries vary– and when you’re sick you will not want to figure out the difference between Advil, Tylenol, Crocin and Panadol (trust me, I’ve done it). 

This list is absolutely not comprehensive, coming from someone who packed about three suitcases. But, it’s a starting point to get you comfortable enough to begin packing, and I hope it reminds you that you are not alone. BU is special for how much it celebrates international students, and throughout your time here I hope you find communities and people who remind you that your voice and experience is important like I have. 

Feel free to reach out, if you need someone to talk to! anayaw@bu.edu

Sana M: Dealing with Anxiety and Homesickness as a College Freshman

When I first committed to Boston University, the idea of moving 1000 miles away from home was thrilling. I spent my entire life in the suburbs of Chicago, and while I loved my hometown, I felt that I was ready to explore and experience more outside of my bubble of Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Boston and BU's allure was too enticing for me to resist. 

However, almost as soon as I threw my cap in the air at my high school graduation, an uneasy knot formed in my stomach as I realized the reality of my college choice. 

Was I ready to move away from home? Could I handle being in an unknown city without family nearby? Am I strong enough to get through the hard times by myself?

These seeds of doubt followed me all summer as I prepared for college. While I was thrilled and grateful to experience a new chapter in my life in a new environment, I was terrified of the amount of change I’d be experiencing. 

Amidst the whirlwind of emotions I felt as I packed up my bedroom, I reminded myself why I chose Boston University in the first place. 

For me, it wasn’t entirely about the academic programs or bustling city life. I wanted to challenge myself and grow in ways I wouldn’t be able to if I stayed within the confines of my comfort zone and the convenience of my hometown. 

So, on move-in day, after I said tearful goodbyes to my family, I did exactly that: challenged myself. I introduced myself to my dorm floor neighbors, got involved in an outrageous amount of clubs, and threw myself into my schoolwork. However, throughout my first semester, the feelings of homesickness I thought would abate never left me. 

Though I was kept extremely busy with my classes and social life, I still had persistent, nagging feelings of sadness and anxiety. I knew that homesickness was a common experience during the first semester of college, but I did not expect it to impact me as much as it did and for as long as it did.  

My first semester flew by, and after winter break, I found myself dreading going back to school. I was worried that my negative feelings and homesickness would continue to affect my day-to-day life and prevent me from enjoying college.

In an effort to combat these negative feelings, I surrounded myself with the people I felt best with. Spending time with friends who understood my feelings and allowed me to repeatedly express them was an outlet I was extremely grateful to have, and it also strengthened my friendships with them. 

Beyond connecting with the people around me, I made a conscious effort to stay connected to my family and friends back home. Scheduling weekly (or daily) calls at set times gave me something to look forward to and motivation to power through the day, alleviating my loneliness and feelings of disconnect from life back at home.  

Coming back home for spring break and leaving at the end of the break was an extremely difficult but final process of realization for me. As I reached the final six weeks of my freshman year of college after spring break, I acknowledged that while leaving family and friends at the end of each break is hard -and will undoubtedly get harder- it’s a significant part of the college experience that is a testament to my growth and strength. 

Each time I return to my hometown, I'm reminded of the comfort and familiarity it offers, but I also recognize the importance of returning to Boston, growing independently, and continuing my journey at Boston University. 

Homesickness and anxiety in college are normal experiences for college freshmen - and sophomores, juniors, and seniors - to have.  Feeling uncomfortable, anxious, and uncertain in a new place is natural, and all transitions will have bumps in the road. 

It is important to recognize that adjusting to a new environment takes time and all students will feel a range of emotions during this transition period. 

I want to advise incoming freshmen to give themselves permission to feel any emotions they experience—whether sadness, anxiety, anger, or regret—and understand that it's all part of the process of navigating a new, unfamiliar experience. 

Remember that everyone's college transition journey is unique, and there's no right or wrong way to work through it. Be patient with yourself, take time to process your feelings, and trust that with time, you'll settle into your new surroundings and begin to feel more comfortable. There is no right or wrong amount of time to take when adjusting to college life. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and seek support from your family and friends. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come during this new chapter of your life - and above all, be kind to yourself during this exhilarating yet daunting transition. 

Kristin R: The Best Places to Walk in and around Boston

Whenever I find myself stressed out, pondering over the same thing over and over again, or just simply need time to myself for reflection, I take a walk.  It’s something I’ve been doing since before I can even remember, and I try to make time for a walk everyday no matter how early or late it is. Back home in California, I had established my favorite walking spots, so when I arrived in Boston at the end of August last year, I knew I had some catching up to do. Here I have listed my favorite places I have found to walk for every occasion.

Hall’s Pond Sanctuary

 The perfect place to sit on a bench and observe life at ease. I recall stumbling upon this place one of my first weeks at BU, and it really helped me have a moment of peace to myself amidst all the change.

The Esplanade

 Creativity sparks here as people watching is at its peak.  Perfect place to stroll and think about anything you want.

Coolidge Corner

 All the shops and scenery here feel like a place out of a movie. Walk here for the opportunity to feel like you’re in a made up land and let your mind wander.

Park Drive

 A street lined with apartment buildings and an open grass area. On one of my first walks around Boston I got lost on this street, but for the first time I didn’t panic.  I felt lost in a refreshing way being able to see all the other college signs around such as Berklee and Emmanuel College, really making me feel like I was in “America’s College Town.”

Winchester Street

 The street that gets you away from city life. Walking through and looking at all the gorgeous homes has led me to come up with many stories on who may live inside.

Longwood

 After accidentally getting off on the wrong T stop, I stumbled upon the Longwood area.  It’s one of those places, for me at least, that is surrounded by so many little stores and new sights that it helps you truly think about all the things you haven’t seen yet as a young mind in a big city.

BU Bridge

Gazing across the Charles River from the BU Bridge at night and seeing the illuminated lights from the tall skyscraper was my, “We’re not in Kansas anymore,” moment. As I kept walking across the bridge, I thought of all my accomplishments that led me to this moment, and all the dreams I want to pursue at Boston University.

Elise S: My First Semester at BU: Looking Back, and Looking Forward

Starting at BU in the fall, I was eager to find community and familiarity in a place that was so unfamiliar. For me, that familiarity was volleyball. BU offers both club and intramural levels of most sports, which makes it easy to get involved at any level of skill, or commitment. My intramural team, the ‘volleybarbz’ played in a mixed league, and had games usually once or twice a week in the evenings. The environment of intramurals is so fun because the stakes are low and the spirits are high. The team provided me with a space to relax, take a break from the stress of schoolwork, be active, and have fun playing a sport I love. I strongly encourage everyone to get involved in the endless extracurricular opportunities that BU has to offer, and if you’re interested in volleyball, the volleybarbz are always looking for players ;). 

Another highlight of my first semester was my freshman writing seminar. Every class has a topic that focuses the class, and there are so many to choose from so that you can customize the experience to your interests. My class focused on harmful environmental practices and extractive economies. The class is seminar style, usually between ten and fifteen students, fostering the perfect environment to make friends and participate in discussions. My favorite assignment of my first semester was the class’s final project, a creative writing assignment. The course was mostly filled with long form, analytical essays, but for our final assignment our professor had us write creative short stories that were somehow related to the topic of environmental degradation or extractivism. The opportunity to let loose and be as creative as I wanted was so incredible, and I ended up writing a story in the gothic style, very much inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven, about the guilt of consumerism. The assignment gave me a reason to exercise my creativity and very much reinvigorated my love for creative writing. 

To lightly touch upon some other high points, I joined the architecture club, my friends and I are active attendees of student acapella, sketch comedy and theater performances, and I found out that I love economics, and find it extremely interesting. 

As far as what I'm most looking forward to, it's hard to narrow down, but I’ll do my best. Some friends and I just signed on an apartment for next year, so I can't wait to see what living more independently is like. I am excited to continue pursuing my Environmental Analysis and Policy minor, because I have loved the classes for it so far, and I am excited to take more Public Relations classes, because I have enjoyed all the hands-on style learning that my COM classes utilize. For example, in my introductory PR class, we learned how to make a PR plan by creating an in-depth PR plan for a business of our choice, including research, action planning, and mock pitching. 

Overall, my first six months here have been some of the most fun and enriching of my life, and I can't wait to see what the future brings.  

Delia R: The Three Best Study Spots on BU Campus

One of the first lessons most freshmen learn is how difficult it can be to study in a dorm room. And thus begins the first-year college student’s search to find Boston University’s best quiet study spots. Well look no further – after my first semester at BU, I can confidently say I have found my three favorites: one in west campus, one in central, and one in East. Here they are, in no particular order.

    1. 26th floor of Stuvi

The 26th floor of Stuvi is hardly a hidden gem – in fact, it can sometimes be hard to find a table at this coveted study spot. But it’s a popular homework location for good reason; the top floor of this dorm provides beautiful views of Nickerson field and greater Boston. This is a quiet study space but not a silent one– students sometimes talk to one another quietly. Lots of tables, chairs, and outlets make this a great spot to sit down and get some work done.

2. Wheelock College Library 

Everyone at BU has been to Mugar at least once, but the Wheelock College Library is a lesser known spot. Located on the basement level of the Wheelock building, this small library has individual study rooms as well as group study spaces. It contains lots of picture books, as well as books about child development, and it is usually fairly empty and very quiet. This room has few distractions and is a good place to work if you want to be away from others.

3. 13th floor of CDS 

Many people go to the first floor of CDS, where Saxby’s is located, to study. While this is also a really nice spot (I particularly like the seats leading up stairs), I personally prefer studying somewhere a little less crowded. For this, the 13th floor is the best place. The 13th floor has lots of tables, couches, and chairs to study at. And, if you get hungry, the fifth floor convenience store and first floor Saxby’s are just a quick elevator ride away!

There are all of the study spots I would recommend to a new BU student, but there are also so many more I haven’t listed. Students willing to go off-campus will find Boston cafes, parks, and public libraries to also be great places to do their work. Comment down below if you have a favorite study location I didn’t mention – I’m always looking for recommendations!

Michaela S: Best Places to Spend Your Dining Dollars

Boston University has lots of options for spending your dining dollars on campus, whether it's the fast-foods you know and love or the (expensive) places in the George Sherman Union (GSU), it’s easy to lose track by the end of the semester. I’ve tried all of the Boston University food places so you don’t have to, and here's what's worth your dining dollars, and what's not. 

My Top Picks:

Greens & Grains:

An on campus dupe of Sweetgreen, that will be sure to give you the biggest salad you have ever seen in your life. Life changing in comparison to a dining hall salad. 10/10.

Saxby’s:

The experience at Saxby’s is the same as riding a roller coaster, you might need to wait for two hours, but that's worth it for 15 minutes of fun right? Honestly, they have a wait for a reason. The food and coffee is the best you’ll get on campus, but CDS is always packed and it misses the calm coffee house feel Pavement and Einsteins have. 9/10.

Raising Canes: 9/10

I had never tried Raising Canes before coming to BU, but now I can confidently say I’m hooked. I have made the trek through the green line closures, to West Campus just to have their chicken, and it is worth every penny you’ve got. The only issue I’ve ever had with Canes, is that GrubHub likes to lie to you, and say your order will be ready in 5-10 minutes, but on a busy night, it can take up to an hour. Don’t trust Grubhub, I recommend ordering in person. 9/10.

Domino’s:

Though I have only ordered Domino’s past 12am at night, it is the perfect midnight snack. They also have a great rewards system that gives free food every two-three orders. Nothing beats coming home from a late class to get some free Dominos dessert. 10/10.

Charles River Bread Company:

Consider this blog post my love letter to CRBC. Best sandwich I’ve ever had in my life. Short wait, only about 10 minutes, AND they have AMAZING cookies/deserts that change seasonally. CRBC is like Panera’s cooler, more niche sibling, that's everything Panera wants to be. CRBC I love you, and I will gladly give you all my dining dollars. 10/10.

There are many other places that accept dining dollars around campus such as:

  • Charles River Bread Company (GSU)
  • Greens and Grains (GSU)
  • Rhett’s (GSU)
  • Halal Shack (GSU)
  • The Coop (GSU)
  • Basho (Warren, GSU)
  • City Convenience (Warren, Sleeper, GSU)
  • Starbucks (Warren, Questrom, GSU)
  • Subway (Warren)
  • Raising Cane's (West)
  • Buick Street Market (West)
  • Dunkin Donuts (West)
  • Breadwinners (Questrom)
  • Einstein Bros. Bagels (CAS)
  • Saxby’s (CDS)
  • Domino’s (South)

Overall, BU has some truly great dining options if you want to avoid the dining halls, get a daily coffee, or just want a sweet treat. Feel free to spend your dollars on whatever your heart desires, and on the weekdays, lookout for me with my CRBC. 

Kenna L: My Go-To Coffee Shops around Boston University

Whether you’re planning on studying or catching up with a friend, coffee shops serve as a herding ground for all.  As a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, I have utilized BU’s easy access to public transportation to visit many of Boston’s esteemed cafes and have curated a list of the most essential spots around campus. 

1.Pavement Coffee

It makes perfect sense that Pavement comes in at first place, considering it is integrated into Central Campus. Located across from the street from the School of Theology, Pavement is a sanctuary for all BU students looking for a pick-me-up. They have everything, ranging from lattes, cold brews, iced teas, and matchas. However, I can’t mention Pavement without bringing up their house-made bagels, which are amazing both on their own and on a sandwich. My personal favorites are the delicious Presto Pesto sandwich and the savory Rosemary Salt Bagel.

2. Blank Street Coffee

Blank Street is my tried and true of all Boston Coffee shops because of its quality customer service and consistently amazing coffee. While It is a bit of a trek from campus, it is well worth the commute. Located on Boylston—across the street from the Boston Public Library—Blank Street hosts a variety of creative drinks and pastries including a sweet strawberries & cream latte and floral rose chai latte. They also have phenomenal quick-service and reasonable prices for their drinks. If you are ever in the Back Bay area, I highly recommend stopping in.

3. Tatte

Tatte is a Boston staple at this point due to its prominent locations in every neighborhood, each of which are always packed with people. fortunately They have a great selection of coffee, including cortados and cold brew, as well as some unique, signature drinks like the black sesame latte and honey halva latte. Tatte also sells a variety of  pastries, which are arguably the best among Boston. I recommend picking up any of their croissants or the chocolate snail.

4. Pressed Cafe

Pressed Cafe is one of the most underrated places among BU students; I was shocked when I discovered many of my friends did not know about  the establishment. Their menu is incredibly extensive, with sandwiches, soups, salads, bowls, burritos, smoothies, juices, and coffee. Whether you are looking for breakfast,  lunch, or dinner, Pressed Cafe can serve all your cravings. They additionally offer George Howell coffee and espresso for their beverages, which makes for a smooth sipping experience. There’s also plenty of seating at Pressed for socializing and studying.

5. Jaho Coffee

Another hidden gem in Boston, Jaho Coffee is an outstanding place to study. They have lots of open seating with outlets, making it the perfect place to get some work done. Out of all of the cafes, they have arguably the most interesting and out of the box drink selection from warm french toast lattes to rich black sugar matchas. Their food menu is just as diverse, too, as Jaho offers  bagels, sandwiches, salads, and soups alongside a full bakery menu with cookies, cakes, pastries, and puddings.

Carly I: Navigating College Life

When I first came to college I was so excited to be on my own for the first time. So much so that when I moved in despite it being 90+ degrees in my dorm I chose to sleep there over an air-conditioned hotel room with my partners. I had been waiting for college the entirety of my junior and senior years in high school, I am from a small town in Maine so as you can imagine I was in need of a change in scenery. You may have a lot of expectations or ideas of what college might be, but I certainly did. The biggest piece of advice I can give you, and one I wish someone gave me, is to let go of any and all expectations. As a freshman I wanted to change everything about myself, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of what you think you want your experience in college to look like. I would force relationships and put myself in awkward situations for the sole purpose of fulfilling the idea I had in my head. It wasn’t until I let go of everything I thought college should be that I found my place at BU. 

I came to BU as a film and television major. I was so set on that being my future that I didn’t open myself up to other opportunities outside of film. Then one day I decided to try joining a new club. I had already done BUTV10 and loved it but I wanted more control and to experience something outside of COM. I ended up joining a fashion magazine, something way outside my comfort zone. I had no experience in magazine making or anything like that. Needless to say, I was incredibly intimidated. However, because I let go of the expectations I had for myself in regard to my major, I ended up figuring out what I truly wanted to do. After a year of being a part of that club, I switched my major to Advertising, which was so easy I might add, with a minor in Film and Television. It feels like all the pieces of the puzzle have been put in place, I’m no longer living my college life with expectations but rather embracing whatever comes to me. As a first-year student, it’s important to try everything. Although you may be set on your major, try something different just for fun. Don’t close yourself off to opportunities or activities because you may think it doesn’t align with your college plan. Embrace what comes to you and lean into what’s unfamiliar.

Zoe R: Dealing with the Boston Cold

Upon being admitted to Boston University you are guaranteed two things—your acceptance letter and never ending comments on the daunting Boston winters.

When I was looking around colleges I rarely factored weather into my searching, mainly because I’m from Delaware where you get all four seasons. I knew the basics, winter was cold and gross wherever you went. Yet these unrelenting comments on needing to “gear up for those Boston winters” left me worried Boston would tear me a new one.

Thankfully, my first experience with a Boston winter as a freshman was not a big leap from winters at home. However, those from warmer climates might not be able to relate. A friend of mine, Bella Jones, has her own set of tips as a Floridian dealing with the cold.

You’ll need your basics: a good coat (Canada Goose is not necessary, it’s Boston not an arctic expedition), a pair of gloves, and a nice hat. However, one thing no one wants to warn you about with Boston winters is the wind. It can make any average winter day frigid in minutes and your walk to class unbearable when wind speeds are whipping around you.

If you want to feel extra prepared for the winter the best you can do is get a scarf.  Make sure it’s on the larger side and you can wrap it around your neck. Having a scarf to hide in while walking around BU’s windy campus is the best way to deal with winter weather.

Bella’s two biggest takeaways for Boston winters were layering and choosing the right socks.

Layering clothes—for example, an extra long sleeve under your sweater—can make a frigid day in Boston leagues better. For best possible results, thin layers are the best way to go according to Bella. Additionally, wearing thick socks can go a long way—while you might not need snow boots everyday in a Boston winter you can comfortably wear any shoe of your choice so long as you have good socks to keep your feet warm.

Long story short, it’s more than manageable as long as you have the right clothes and don’t underestimate the Boston wind.