Maya: Four Break-Worthy Boston Bookshops

By: Maya Lubaroff

Being a student can get overwhelming at times. It is just as important to look after yourself as it is to look after your academics! My favorite way to get away from the hustle of classes, clubs, and work is by exploring various bookstores in the greater Boston area. Here are my top choices for a leisurely afternoon getaway!

 

1. Brookline Booksmith

Located in the heart of Coolidge Corner, Brookline Booksmith offers something for every individual out there. This independent bookstore offers spectacular deals on popular titles, offering discounts for up to half-off. They hold community-bonding events several times a week, including but not limited to poetry readings, book launches, and author events. In addition to the diverse collection of books, they offer a variety of trinkets and gifts ranging from quirky greeting cards to locally made candles, puzzles, journals, and tote bags.

 

2. Lovestruck Books

This bookstore is one-of-a-kind in Boston. Lovestruck Books is an all-romance bookstore that is attached to a cafe, specifically focused on a diverse collection of romance tropes for all book lovers. The attached café offers themed drinks inspired by popular romance novels, making it the perfect spot to sip a latte while diving into a new read.

 

3. Beacon Hill Books and Cafe

Tucked away in a cozy corner of one of Boston’s most historical neighborhoods, Beacon Hill Books and Café offers a charming escape that feels straight out of a storybook. With its winding staircases, curated book displays, and warm lighting, the shop invites visitors to slow down and savor the moment. The quaint bookstore is directly above a cafe and surrounded by other shops to browse.

 

4. Brattle Bookshop

The Brattle Bookshop is located in the heart of downtown Boston, and is known for being one of  America’s oldest and largest used bookstores. This bookstore is wonderful to take a stroll around, making it perfect for anyone taking a breather.



Saya: Favorite Restaurants Near Campus

By: Saya Ghinea

Although the various BU dining halls available have amazing meals and variety, sometimes you’re craving something a little more. That’s where I come in! I love trying new foods and Boston has been no exception. It’s hard to narrow down all the places I’ve been but here are my top three so far: 

1. Nud Pob 

This is a classic comfort-food stop for BU students and there’s no wonder why it’s so popular. Not only is it in a convenient location right across the GSU, it’s also the best Thai food I’ve had. My go-to meal every single time is spring rolls and chicken pad thai but the pad see ew and thai sausage fried rice are also delicious. It’s reasonably priced and a good spot to go for a quick bite. 

2. Pho Basil 

I’m not sure if I can count how many times I’ve been here. If you’re looking to satisfy your pho craving look no further. Located right near Berklee, it’s a homey environment that has even friendlier staff. The pho tai is perfection and add a glass of thai iced tea for the perfect meal to enjoy on a rainy day. Tip: make sure to get there earlier since it tends to get very busy! 

3. Hei La Moon 

This restaurant is a little bit more of a hike and can be found in Chinatown but is well worth the visit. Everyone knows that I love dim sum and this place is the definition of heaven. On Saturday and Sundays during lunchtime, you can find crowds of carts being pushed around filled to the brim with the soft pork buns, piping hot dumplings, and really anything else you can imagine. If you can get a big group of people to go, you’ll be able to try everything! 

Despite the fact that my top three places are asian cuisines, there are so many delicious food spots around this area that I’m never bored of the options. I hope you give these places a try and happy eating!



Mason: Marciano, Warren and West, Oh My!

By: Mason Jablonsky

I love food. If you like food too, I have great news. Boston University has three main dining halls on campus, and each is wonderful in its own way. Here’s a glimpse at what our dining halls entail!

Starting on the east side of campus, we have Marciano Commons. Marciano is quite a large and pleasant space, with bright lighting and a modern, two-story layout. On the first floor, there is the Concept Kitchen, which serves an exciting new cuisine every week. There’s also a classic pizza oven, as well as a grill station, where you can often find hamburgers, turkey burgers and chicken sandwiches. There is the deli, where you can order a sandwich crafted to your liking. And on the top floor, you can find even more options that change daily at the gluten free, vegan, international, soup and saute stations. Plus, you can get soft serve on the top or the bottom floor. Or if you’re craving something else for dessert, there’s also the bakery downstairs, which often has cookies, brownies and other sweet options! Oh, and of course, there’s salad upstairs. Just one thing for night owls to note: Marciano typically closes at 9 p.m., while the other dining halls are open as late as 10 p.m. on weekdays.

Shifting to Central Campus, there’s Warren Dining Hall. Located in the heart of one of BU’s most iconic buildings, Warren Dining Hall is perhaps the most convenient and accessible on campus. Warren has some amazing dining options, including, of course, the stir fry station. There you can fill your stir fry bowl to your liking, with items like chicken, beef, tofu, mushrooms, onions, carrots, squash, spinach, bok choy, peas, cabbage and more! Or you can head to the grill station, where you can often find chicken sandwiches, tenders and waffle fries. There’s even more to choose from at the gluten free, vegan, pizza and wok stations, with salad and soup to boot, plus the wraps and bowls section. Throw in the bakery and the soft serve machines, and your meal is set, especially if you’re on the go in the middle of campus.

And finally, there’s the West Dining Hall. I like West because it tends to be quieter, especially if you’re grabbing lunch on a weekday. It has all the same makings of its dining hall counterparts, along with the True Balance station, which offers new fun and healthy dining options each day. There’s also the international station, the grill, gluten free and vegan options, plus the saute. I also think West has the best pizza. You could grab soup, too, and don’t forget to visit the smoothie station. And there’s just something so inviting about the West Dining Hall. Maybe it’s the stone brick facades, the extensive salad bar or the hot fudge to drizzle on my soft serve. They say West is best, and on most days, I think that’s true for our dining halls. But remember, you can’t go wrong with any!

Happy dining!



Jack: A Peek Into The Boston Music Scene

By: Jack Schwed

Do you enjoy supporting small local artists? If so, you are in luck because Boston is home to many incredible musical talents. Since a lot of them tend to fly under the radar, I am going to share two of my favorites:

1. Tripwire

This band, recently formed by four Berklee College of Music freshmen, blends the shoegaze influence of bands like Fleshwater with a post-hardcore sound, forming what they call a “heavier shoegaze.” They debuted at Middle East in Cambridge (which is an awesome venue by the way) in late February. A few weeks later, they dropped a three-song demo on streaming services, which I highly recommend you check out!!! Their Instagram is @tripwirema. 

2. Leila Lamb

Leila is an absolute icon! She too is a Berklee student, but unlike Tripwire whose brand comprises four members, she is the star of her project. However, she does not take the stage alone. She is accompanied by spectacular musicians, even including a violinist and a keytarist. Although her music is fantastic on its own, it is her stage presence that truly captivated me. My favorite song that she performed live is “American Spirit,” which she  actually dropped on streaming services not too long ago, so I would suggest you check it out!!! Her Instagram is @needspower.

 

There are even some bands featuring BU students, including Uma Thermos and Humana Humana.

However, it is not just the music itself that makes the scene so special — it is also the people. These “DIY” and house shows, dating back to the mid-70s punk rock scene, have historically acted as havens for marginalized groups, like women, people of color, and the LGBTQ community. So, regardless of your background, you are welcome! Plus, for only $5-15, you might get to experience some of the most memorable performances of your life.



Delia: A BU Student’s Guide to Coolidge Corner

By: Delia Rune

It took most of my first semester at BU for me to really start exploring Coolidge Corner, but, once I did, I was so excited to discover the vibrant hub of activity that rests just a short 15-minute walk from West Campus. To me, Coolidge Corner is BU’s version of a “college town.” Everything you could need rests on a bustling strip of Harvard Street, and you are guaranteed to see both BU students and local families. If you’ve never visited Coolidge Corner, here are a few of my favorite spots to get you started:

 

1. Brookline Booksmith

Brookline Booksmith is a local bookstore in Coolidge Corner. In addition to new and signed copies of books, they also sell used books, stationery supplies, tableware, and children’s toys. It is a great place to grab a gift, a book, or to just sit and flip through magazines. Purchasing from the Brookline Booksmith also supports the independent bookstore and helps the store put on fun events such as author talks, book signings, and family storytimes.

 

2. Tiny Hanger

Tiny Hanger is another family-friendly stop on the list – it’s a small store devoted to children’s clothing and toys. Although baby clothes are not usually on the top of a BU student’s shopping list, the store attracts college students because of its wide selection of Jellycats. The store features dozens of stuffed animals across almost every surface, and is heaven for Jellycat collectors or enthusiasts.

 

3. Coolidge Corner Theater

The Coolidge Corner Theater is one of Brookline’s most well-known establishments. The theater was built in 1933 and features a wide variety of movies – from blockbuster hits to arthouse films, Coolidge Corner Theater has something for everyone. The theater was recently renovated and now features two concession areas and six screens. The theater shows movies as late as midnight and offers discounted tickets for students – making this theater a popular spot for BU students on weekend nights. 

 

4. The Clayroom

The Clayroom in Brookline is a cozy studio where artists of all ages and walks of life can choose a piece of pottery to paint and make their own. There are a wide variety of clay pieces and colors to decorate, and the studio allows you to bring your own drinks and food while you craft. This spot is perfect for a fun outing, date night, or personalized gift! 

 

5. Maruichi

Maruichi is a Japanese deli located in Coolidge Corner. They sell teas and snacks, as well as fresh food and drinks. They are known for their high-quality matchas, delicious handrolls, and donburi bowls, this spot is perfect for a snack or full meal!



Derek: Spring in Boston

By: Derek Olson

The frost of winter snow is melting away, and with it the opportunities to enjoy the open air of Boston are increasing by the day.  Even though it is easy to get lost in the seemingly endless pages of school work, do not forget to set down the books, get off-campus, and enjoy the gorgeous weather of a New England spring.

Travel over to the Boston Public Garden and enjoy the horticulture and spring weather.  The Boston Public Garden is the filming site of Robin William’s iconic bench monologue from Good Will Hunting (1997.)  I will not tell where the exact location is, but if you are up for it, find it and recreate the scene.  Beginning April 19, the Boston Public Garden also offers $4.75 rides on the iconic Swan Boats from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. until June 20, extending hours until 5:00 p.m. after June 20 until September 1.  

Another spring destination is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.  Enjoy the beautiful gallery of this famed art collector at no cost with a student discount, for BU students, that can be found on the CFA website.  My favorite part of the museum is the courtyard, filled with flowers that are in bloom for the spring and basking in the spring sun.

For all sports lovers who miss the energy of Agganis Arena, enjoy a Boston Red Sox game for $9.  Only about a 10-minute walk from central campus, Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball (MLB) history and still hosts one of the most iconic teams in the sport.  Delight in a Fenway Frank, the open air, and nine energetic innings of professional baseball with tickets only costing $9 as a part of their student-nines program.  Be sure to register for the program on their website so that you can receive alerts of when tickets are available, since it is subject to change from game to game.

If you do not have time, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy spring while on campus.  Doing your homework on BU beach, going for your run or riding your bike along the Charles River, or simply going for a walk down Commonwealth Avenue are all just as healthy ways to happily enjoy the spring weather.  

No matter how you do it, make sure to get outside and enjoy some fresh air as the weather gets warmer and summer rolls around.  Thank you for your time and have an amazing rest of your semester, fellow Terriers! - Derek



Teagan: How to Get Around BU’s Campus Without Losing Your Mind

By: Teagan Keane

Boston University’s Charles River Campus is big—like, really big. If you’ve ever found yourself speed-walking down Comm Ave, trying to make it to class on time, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a freshman still figuring out the BU Bus or a senior who somehow still gets lost in CAS, here are some tips to make getting around campus a little easier.

1. The BU Bus is a Lifesaver… Sometimes 

The BU Shuttle is amazing when it shows up on time, but if you’re cutting it close, don’t rely on it. Download the BU Mobile app to track the shuttle in real-time so you’re not left waiting in the cold (or worse, watching it drive away while you’re still a block away).

2. The T is Faster Than You Think 

If you’re heading from East to West Campus and the BU Bus isn’t an option, the Green Line’s B branch is a solid backup. Sure, it’s not the fastest train in the world, but hopping on for a few stops can save your legs—especially in the winter.

3. Find the Secret Shortcuts 

BU’s campus is full of little pathways and cut-throughs that can save you time. Walking from CAS to COM? Skip the crowds and cut through the GSU. Need to get to FitRec? Take the alley behind Sleeper Hall instead of dodging bikers and skateboards on Comm Ave.

4. Best Study Spots on the Go 

If you’ve got time to kill between classes, knowing where to study makes a huge difference. In East Campus? Head to the top floor of Mugar for quiet study vibes. Central Campus? The COM Lounge is perfect for a quick work session. West Campus? The Kilachand Common Room is a hidden gem.

5. Sometimes, Walking is the Best Option 

During peak hours, Comm Ave traffic is a nightmare. If you’re only going a few stops, walking is often faster than waiting for the BU Bus or the T. Plus, you can grab a coffee at Pavement or Tatte on the way—win-win.

BU’s campus might feel overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be moving like a pro.



Christina: The Perfect Spring Day, In My Opinion

By: Christina Chen

Spring break just ended and I need my warm weather asap. Especially having spent my break in the Bahamas, I wasn’t so glad to be greeted with 30-degree weather when I landed at Logan Airport. Boston has been cold, dreary, and dark for too long now. I’ve been planning out my perfect spring day for when the weather is just right, so this is my game plan.

 

1. Head to the Thinking Cup

I love getting up early because it makes my day feel productive and I feel less rushed. So my first stop on my perfect spring day is coffee from the Thinking Cup, specifically the Tremont location. Thankfully my off-campus apartment is close to the T, where I can hop on and ride my way towards Boylston. I’ll order myself a mocha and croissant after I hunt down an empty table. And for the next hour or two, I’ll complete some class work before I get tired out.

2. Walk through the Commons

The best way to shake off the sleepiness of working on a laptop is to go outside. Perfect since the Commons are right next to the Thinking Cup. I like to walk around in hopes of catching Nick Shea AKA the $1 drawing guy. He’s a great conversationalist and I get something to remember my perfect spring day. Otherwise, I like to people-watch and pet dogs. Plus, the Commons always has something going on, one time I went and stumbled upon the Chris Evans Look-alike contest.

3. Picnic in the Public Garden

The commons are right by the Public Garden and I love going here with friends. So it’s only logical that we have a little picnic! We’d meet near the pond and set up under a willow tree because I love whimsy. And since we’re college students our lunch will include chips, fruits, and premade sandwiches from the grocery store. We’ll chat about our days and lay around enjoying the nice weather before one of us mentions a little adventure.

4. A Quick stroll around Beacon Hill

It’s usually me, I am the one that mentions a little adventure. Which is not far from where we’d be! We’d take a quick stroll around Beacon Hill, the houses around there are beautiful. Not to mention the cutest and most aesthetically pleasing stores. If you go inside The Flat of the Hill, which is on Charles St. in Beacon Hill, you’ll find a plethora of Jelly Cats. Here is where I fight the urge to purchase everything. In the end, I will not buy anything. Finally my friends and I head to the T and part ways.

5. Dinner at my apartment

The day isn’t over just yet! When I get home I chat with my roommates while we are all in the kitchen whipping up dinner. This is our first year living off-campus and we love it. It's so nice to go back to a place that’s totally ours. I close out my perfect spring day with dinner in our living room and our slightly janky projector set up watching a silly romcom. 



Morgan: Club Spotlight- WTBU

By: Morgan Oakes

It’s no secret that Boston University is large. As someone who grew up in a small town, starting college in a city can feel intimidating. Clubs are an essential part of making friends and finding community at a school of this size, and there are many to choose from. I remember attending Splash, the school-wide club fair, and being overwhelmed by the amount of clubs that spanned Nickerson field. I decided to join WTBU, Boston University’s radio station, and have been a DJ since then. The broadcasting studio, along with a studio for podcasting and a studio for recording live music, are located on the third floor of the COM. 

The club draws a wide variety of people. I DJ on an emo show and a pop culture show, while I have friends who DJ on shows that cover genres ranging from jazz to hyperpop to British music. In addition to this we have multiple flagship shows, such as WTBU news and WTBU sports. In the fall semester, the team at WTBU news did live coverage of the Presidential election. A group from WTBU sports attended and gave coverage of this year’s Beanpot, which Boston University won. WTBU also has a promotions team, which photographs and reports on concerts in the area. 

When a new student begins on WTBU, they are assigned to be on a show as a DJ in training (DJiT). They spend the semester being taught how to use the studio equipment by the DJs on the show. The student then takes a test at the end of the semester, and if they pass they have the option to start their own show. 

WTBU has a vibrant community who are brought together by a love for music. I strongly recommend that anyone looking to try something new gives the radio station a shot. 



Kyla: A Southerner’s Guide to Boston Life

By: Kyla Foreman-Andrade

Before coming to Boston, I had spent my entire life in the South. I had only been to Boston once before attending BU. I was so lost my first year, getting used to the culture shock. If you’re like me, a Southerner through and through, here’s a guide to New England life.

1. Saxby’s IS NOT Zaxby’s

If you’re like me and come from the Southeast, you may know of a restaurant chain called Zaxby’s. If you’re also like me, you may have been excited to hear about Zaxby’s being on campus and you were excited to get your fill of fried chicken. Sadly, BU does not have a Zaxby’s, but rather a Saxby’s, a coffee shop. Although you can’t get buttery Texas toast and fried white cheddar bites, you can get a delicious breakfast burrito and a killer honey cold brew. If you’re in search of good fried chicken, try the Raising Canes in West; it’s almost like tasting home.

2. You Need a Jacket

Southern winters mean 30s in the morning and a lovely 50-60s in the afternoon. That is not the case for Boston. I would consider myself very tolerant of the cold, but as soon as mid-October hit, I knew I needed a good jacket. For a mild winter jacket, you can get away with a puffer. The pick on campus is the black North Face puffer. My mild winter jacket of choice is a heavy-weight jacket from Uniqlo. It’s nice and fuzzy and easy to carry around. Uniqlo always has sales, so I suggest hitting up the one on Newbury as soon as you feel a cold breeze.

For the harsher winter, you need a parka. The only way to truly stay warm is to have your jacket cover you from head to toe. I have a North Face parka that I got for really cheap at an outlet. Throw on a scarf and a pair of gloves and you’re ready to face the CDS wind tunnel.

3. Find Your New England Style

You don’t have to throw out your entire closet, but you’re in college now in a new city, it’s time to take some fashion risks. You also have to learn how to dress for the ever-changing New England weather. If you’re looking for places to spruce up your wardrobe, look no further than Newbury Street. They have tons of big-name stores such as Urban Outfitters, Nike, and Lululemon, but they have a bunch of small boutiques. Boston also has a fantastic thrift scene. The Garment District is a great place to start if you get tired of the campus Goodwill. There is also a pop-up thrift market called Select Markets that brings together lots of thrift vendors, so you can do your shopping all in one place.

4. Get to Know You’re New Regional Grocery Stores

The days of Publix, HEB, and Food Lion are over. You’re in the North now, it’s time to get familiar with your new grocery stores. This was one of the biggest shocks to me. When I finally wanted to go food shopping, I had no clue where the best spots were. Something close to campus and cheaper than you may think is Trader Joe’s. There is one off of Newbury Street and one in Brookline. Star Market in West Campus or Fenway is always full of deals and easily accessible. If you want more grocery store names to throw around with your New England friends, mention Stop and Shop, Market Basket, and Shaw’s.

5. Keep That Southern Hospitality

Bostonians have a reputation for being some of the rudest people, while the South is known for great manners and charm. The real truth is: Bostonians aren’t as rude as people make them out to be. Don’t feel pressured to change who you are or lie about where you come from. Keep that Southern Charm. Smile at the people you meet. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone new. Be proud of your Southern accent. You can also learn a few things from Bostonians like knowing when to jaywalk and how to take the T without paying, but that’s a topic for another day.