Obviously, this is one necessity in college. Dining Halls are great places to not only get some food between classes, but also, places to catch up with friends, catch up on some studying, or meet up for a group project. There are FOUR total at Rutgers, and they all have their own look and atmosphere: ranging from the modern, sleek look of Livingston Dining Commons to the older, but welcoming, booming aura of Brower Commons. There are many options available for food based on cultural, religious, or individual preferences. Or, if you are just missing home, be sure to grab a hug or "Hello Baby" from Mama Brower.
3. The Steps of Brower
Music blasting, people asking you to buy cupcakes to support their cause, crowds of people: must be one of those sunny, warm days on College Ave. There is almost always something going on on the Steps of Brower Commons. Many organizations and clubs hold fundraisers at this hot spot because of the frequent traffic. It is one of the main stops on College Ave, and therefore, always busy. It may open your eyes to a Greek organization you may want to rush or a club you are interested in joining... So be sure to be on the look-out!
4. Dance Marathon
How does spending 32-hours ON YOUR FEET sound? Great? I thought so. Even though this may sound somewhat painful and long, it is completely worth it. If you have never heard of it, be sure to check out their website: Rutgers Dance Marathon. Basically, this event goes beyond the 32-hours because of all the planning that goes into it. Many different groups and organizations participate in the event to raise money for kids with cancer and blood disorders, hence the motto: For the Kids! This year, I not only participated but also volunteered my time all year to prepare for the event as a Morale Captain. There are various positions available as Captains, Volunteers, and other leadership roles. Or, you can just come out as a Dancer a great cause. FTK!
5. The RAC
One of the perks of going to a big school is the amazing opportunities to watch college sports. The RAC is the home of the Scarlet Knights Men & Women's Basketball Teams. Games are free for students, and for a small price, you can bring a guest! Make sure you sit in the student section, and cheer for your team! Who knows, you could even end up on ESPN. Also, be on the look-out for the Scarlet Knight, himself. The RAC is located on Livingston Campus: where you met your fabulous Orientation Leaders at Open House.
Although this picture is not technically on Rutgers Campus, the events leading up to it took place there! This year, I decided to apply for an Alternative Breaks trip. Luckily, I received my first choice: New Orleans. However, the opportunity was not just a trip: it also required weekly meetings with my group. At first, I was hesitant because I did not really know anyone, but we quickly grew as a family because we were all there to serve others. I cannot even begin to tell you how moving the entire trip was. The gratitude from those we helped, including Blanca Fuentes seen in this picture, is life changing. This is definitely an opportunity you do not want to miss out on during your college years here. Check out the website to see where people have gone as well as see where and when you can go!
Saturdays (and one Friday) in the Fall Semester mean football for Rutgers students. On game days, you will see students, as well as many others, on all campuses decked out in red, white, and black. Honestly, one of the major reasons I wanted to go to a large school was because of school spirit. I wanted to be in the student section of every game decked out in red, cheering on my team, and hopefully winning! Football season is one of the best times of the year. Games are an easy way to meet new people as well as ask new friends to hang out. Do not be shy: they will be full of many memories from the games so be sure to check them out!
Dun dun dun.... Yes, college looks like fun, but it is also full of hard work. Sometimes, residence halls can be noisy and not ideal for studying. Therefore, head to a library, located on each campus, to catch up on some homework or cram for your exam tomorrow! During finals, the libraries are open twenty-four hours so be sure to take advantage of that. Also, the librarians are very welcoming to help with any research. If you need a break from your books, many take-out places will deliver to the library. As you can see, I know first hand that Noodle Gourmet delivers bubble tea at all times during the day!
9. Passion Puddle
I included Passion Puddle in this list of important places because it is one of the most beautiful spots on campus. Whether you have a sweetheart you want to walk with or just need a quiet place to reflect, this is your spot. The trees of Cook Campus are another plus as you can see in the picture. In the green lawns nearby, there are often games of football or frisbee going on. So, if you are looking for a reason to get outside: this is it!
10. The Livingston Theatre Company
This is just one of the many student-run theatre companies here at Rutgers University. They have put on various shows including The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hairspray, and the upcoming: Legally Blonde Musical. A couple of our very own Orientation Leaders have taken roles in these shows so if you are interested in getting involved in a show, be sure to talk to them! Or, if you are just a theatre-goer like me, definitely check out one of these shows for a student price. These performances take place in our very own Livingston Student Center so do not miss out!Even though I did not know of many of these places, events, and resources until later on in my college career, I still know I have had great experiences at Rutgers University, and of course, I know I will continue to! Be sure to get involved in things that you love, and when in doubt, turn to getinvolved.rutgers.edu to find more things to get yourself into! Find what you love, and you will find your place here!
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