College is a wildly fun time of new experiences. As a first-year student, I enjoyed getting involved with clubs, going to football games, and hanging out with friends; however, sometimes I found myself needing some “Me time”. This is completely normal. Take advantage of all the relaxing things that Penn State has to offer.
One of my favorite places on campus is the Alumni Garden behind Hammond. Last semester, I came to the garden to escape in between classes. Even if I could only spend a few minutes here, the garden is a nice change of pace and scenery from the typical hustle and bustle of State College. You can also chill in the gazebo or at the duck pond! This is a wonderful place to just sit, read a book, or listen to music.
The Alumni Garden is typically not very crowded, and it is a central location to anyone going to and from classes on the west side of campus. But if you spend most of your days on the east end of campus, you don’t have to hike all the way to Hammond for some relaxation in nature. The Arboretum is full of nooks and crannies to explore and relax. This is one of the most beautiful places to be when the seasons are changing. I encourage all of you to enjoy the Arboretum at least once in your free time.
Many clubs take formal pictures here and some alumni get married here! The Arboretum is a great place to get plugged into the peace and quiet of nature. I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I do.
For those of you who are more artsy, Two Thousand Degrees is a paint your own pottery shop on College Ave. This is a great place to relax and use the other side of your brain. The pottery ranges from ten to about twelve or fifteen dollars depending on how big the piece is. The picture below is a mug I made last semester, and every time I see it, I smile and relax a bit at the fun memory of making it myself. Two Thousand Degrees is for everyone no matter how talented or untalented you think you are at art. This place is just plain fun!
If you don’t feel like leaving your room and are tired of common’s food, here is a tip: make your own food in the kitchen in the basement of your resident hall! Most halls have a kitchen that students are allowed to utilize if they check out the key in the commons. Put on Spotify and cook some homemade mac and cheese for a dinner party with your friends, or bake some cookies as a break before a study session. This is a great way to relax, by yourself or as a break with your friends.
No matter how you spend your “Me time”, remember to take time for yourself. A little time to rejuvenate here and there will help manage stress.
Enjoy your time at Penn State!
WE ARE!
By: Amanda Hildenbrand
No comments:
Post a Comment