College is busy, overwhelming, exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. Especially at Brandeis, when you’re involved with 5 clubs, community service activities, theatre, acapella and studying for classes. The weeks here are always busy and by the end of it, you realize you don’t have any time left for yourself. Self-care and rejuvenation are important. Amidst all the learning and growing, taking a step back and reflecting helps me reset and prepare for what lies ahead. I first started going to Boston last semester and it gave me a whole new perspective. Boston is a beautiful city with lots to see and do and it is extremely accessible from campus. I started going every weekend whether it was for a meal or just to study in a quiet cafe. I realized that when I came back to campus I was much calmer, fresher and ready to take on a new week.
As a sophomore, it is still easy to get lost in the Brandeis bubble and we often times forget that there is a life and a world outside of college. Going to Boston or Cambridge or simply stepping off campus helps me regain that perspective. It also serves as ‘me time’ where I get to be by myself for a little time away from campus. This has also served as an opportunity for me to explore a beautiful new city. I have found my favorite quiet spots, great places to eat, museums that are cheap to enter for students and where all the best shops are when you want to spoil yourself a little bit. Simply, leaving campus for a short amount of time can make an immense difference to your mental health.
Going off campus on the weekends, even in the midst of midterms has given a routine and I know what my weekends look like. There is comfort in that and stepping into the real world with my friends or alone has allowed me to learn about myself. So when I get overwhelmed on campus or drown in midterm stress, I know I can take a step back and come to campus better prepared and much calmer.