Navigating Northeastern: A Comprehensive Guide to Campus Life

As the leaves begin to change and the weather starts to cool, the hectic nature of move-in and the nerves of starting classes have finally settled. If you are feeling lost on campus, rest assured. Acclimating to Northeastern's campus for the first time — whether as a first-year, a transfer student, a Global Scholar or an exchange student — can be overwhelming.

Unlock the Secrets of Northeastern's Campus

Exploring the Tunnels: A Winter Wonderland

When the weather becomes so frigid that walking from class to class outdoors feels like a personal Everest, the 16,705-foot network of tunnels underneath campus offers a cozy and convenient alternative. These tunnels connect 11 buildings, from Snell Library to the Cabot Center, with the primary entrance at Curry Student Center. Navigating the tunnels is like discovering a hidden passageway, allowing you to stay warm and dry while traversing the campus. Take a digital tour to familiarize yourself with this underground network and make the most of this campus gem.

Marino Makeover: Optimizing Your Workout Routine

Overcrowding at Marino Recreation Center can make working out time-consuming and frustrating. However, there are alternative options to consider. SquashBusters, located at 795 Columbus Ave., offers a smaller, less crowded gym experience with a variety of equipment and facilities. Open from 6 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday, and with varying hours on weekends, SquashBusters provides a more intimate and focused workout environment. If you still prefer Marino, you can check the Live Facility Counts to determine the optimal time to attend, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable workout experience. Marino also offers a diverse range of workout classes, including cycling, pilates, and yoga, which are accessible to members after paying the Group Fitness Aerobics fee through the Atleto app.

Unlocking Discounts: Maximizing Your Husky Card

Your Husky Card is a powerful tool that can unlock a wealth of discounts and benefits around the city. Take advantage of free admission to the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) and discounted tickets to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The Boston Symphony Orchestra also offers a College Card for $30, granting students access to certain shows throughout the season. When shopping at stores like Madewell and J. Crew in the Prudential Center or on Newbury Street, be sure to present your Husky Card to receive a 15% discount. Additionally, your Northeastern email provides free digital access to a variety of magazines and newspapers, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Post.

Staying Connected: Leveraging the Center for Student Involvement

The Northeastern Center for Student Involvement (CSI) is a valuable resource for staying informed and engaged on campus. Follow their Instagram account for frequent updates on events, workshops, and student organizations. CSI organizes exciting experiences like Fall Fest, Homecoming Week, and group Red Sox games. In the past, I was able to attend the Boston Calling Music Festival for just $35 through a CSI deal, a significant discount from the standard ticket price. Over the summer, I kept track of the weekly "Keepin' it Cool" event, where CSI provided free Ben & Jerry's ice cream to students at different campus locations.

Finding Your Study Sanctuary

While Snell Library is a popular study spot, there are many lesser-known areas around campus that offer a quieter and more focused environment. Horticulture Hall, located across from Symphony Hall, is a peaceful and secluded space, particularly convenient for those living at 60 Belvidere St. or the Midtown Hotel. The first floor of West Village G is an ideal spot for extended study sessions, with comfortable seating and minimal distractions. For STEM students, the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex's top floor, cafe area, and outdoor seating provide a calm and productive atmosphere. If you need to book a room for group work or private studying, visit Spaces at Northeastern to reserve a space in advance.

Fueling Your Northeastern Experience: Campus Dining Delights

Beyond the classic Tatte breakfast and El Jefe's dinner, there are numerous other delectable dining options near campus. Wollaston's Market offers unique and tasty sandwich creations, with names like "The Huntington" and the "Marino Fitness." Sprout, a healthy and convenient to-go option on Huntington Avenue, serves up Mediterranean-inspired salads. For a weekend indulgence, treat yourself to an iced matcha latte and a rosemary salt bagel from Pavement Coffeehouse on Gainsborough Street. Oakleaf Cakes Bake Shop, next to Symphony Hall, is a must-visit for its incredible coffee and decadent pastries. Pressed Cafe, my personal favorite, offers delicious paninis, açaí bowls, and coffees, although it lacks Wi-Fi if you're looking for a cafe to work in. Alternatively, Caffé Nero's Symphony location on New Edgerly Road is equipped with charging ports and efficient Wi-Fi, making it a frequent study spot.