Monthly Archives: February 2022

Best Places to Study in the Center of Campus

By Emily Costello 

With midterms approaching slowly but surely, it is important for us students to find a study spot where we are both comfortable and can remain focused. Finding a good study spot can create an environment where you can be successful in your studies whether it be group work, doing homework, or studying for exams. 

W.E.B. DuBois Library 

The library is the first place that comes to mind when everyone thinks of study spots. The Procrastination Station on the first floor gives students the opportunity to grab a snack and a drink to help them stay focused. The library also has a large variety of floors to choose from. One of my personal favorites is floor 9, which is a more group-friendly environment with couches and large tables. This floor is great for group work or if you are looking for more of a loud environment. When I am looking for a quiet place to study in the library, I usually go to floor 11, which is a quiet floor with desks surrounding the windows, which adds a nice view. 

Integrative Learning Center 

As a Communication major, I have spent hours upon hours studying in the ILC. When I am looking for a louder space, I like to go to Peet’s Coffee and sit in the couches around there. The Communication Hub on the 3rd floor is also a great place to study, as it is relatively quiet and has great natural light, which I find helps me stay focused. 

Student Union 

The new Student Union is a fantastic place to get work done. I found that since the Student Union is very new, there are a lot of outlets for charging devices, and the furniture is comfortable as well. Earthfoods Cafe makes for a great place to grab a snack or meal while studying too! 

South College 

The place on campus where I have found the best to do quiet, independent work is South College. On the first floor of South College, there is a large open area with tables and chairs and I have always found this to be a place where I can focus easily. On the second floor, there are study desks and rooms which I find to be a productive environment for myself as well. 

Outside!

As the weather gets warmer, I have found that studying outside can enhance my productivity. During a busy day, it is nice to sit outside either on the steps of the campus center or the Adirondack chairs by the student union. Getting fresh air can help you think clearer, even if it is for a short time! 

Healthy Habits for a Healthy Lifestyle

By Bella Burbic

It’s almost the end of February, some of us are finally settling in, and some are still trying to find our groove. Some of us are developing a routine, while some of us are struggling to find one that works. Even for those of us with a solid routine, as the semester progresses it can sometimes be hard to maintain that routine. I have listed out here three relatively easy to adopt, healthy habits that you have heard of, but may have forgotten, in the midst of a busy semester. Adopting these habits can make your days more effective and boost both your mood and your productivity. Whether you have a routine or not, making these changes in your life will have a worthwhile impact in some way. It takes just about 21 days to form a healthy habit that can have a positive effect on your life for the long term.

Get in some type of exercise.

I know, you have probably heard this before, but exercise is one of the best ways to boost your mood, give you energy and keep your mind and body healthy. Exercise does not have to mean going to the rec center, it can mean countless things. It can look like deciding to walk to class instead of taking the bus, taking the stairs up to your dorm everyday instead of the elevator, or standing at your desk instead of sitting.. Studies have shown that just 30 minutes of exercise a day can make someone more productive and less tired. If you are looking to develop a workout routine using the rec center, I really recommend signing up for instructor-led fitness classes at the gym. You sign up using imleagues, and all classes are free for UMass undergraduate students. Signing up for classes makes you more likely to follow through with your exercise commitment, and oftentimes push yourself in a way that sometimes working out by yourself is hard to do.

Stay hydrated.

Every part of your mind, body and soul relies on water to operate effectively. Making a solid effort to increase your intake of water will significantly make you less tired and less prone to brain fog. Drinking water also reduces anxiety, prevents headaches, illness, and fatigue. Drinking water also is a great step in the direction of getting in shape as it detoxifies your body and fuels it at the same time. Drinking more water is an easy habit that makes a big difference.

Get some sleep!

As college students, this habit is probably the hardest to maintain. With our social lives, academic studies, clubs, and jobs, it sometimes seems like there isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done, let alone get a good night’s sleep. As most of us know, sleep is the most important factor in terms of mood, ability to focus and physical recovery. Planning out your day in a way that allows you to get to bed at a reasonable time is very important. My biggest advice on this one would be to set a time to unplug completely. This bedtime means no TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter after this set time. This allows your brain to relax without distractions or light from your devices keeping it awake. 

Getting exercise and drinking water have also been linked to much better sleep schedules, so grouping these three habits together will significantly change your life in a positive way without having to do anything drastic. It may seem simple, but I guarantee you, it helps!

Love and Adventure are in the Air!

By Christine Souaiden

We are kicking off the fourth week of the semester with Valentine’s Day, the day of love! It is important to remember to be kind to yourself and others today. More importantly, do not forget to treat yourself with some chocolate and maybe even flowers! Whether you are celebrating Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day, there are a couple ways to celebrate. Have a night in, buy some chocolate, and put on a good movie! If you like to celebrate in a more social setting, go out to dinner and top it off with dessert from some of Amherst’s local bakeries.

After we celebrate the day of love, there are a lot of fun events to explore, let’s run through some of them! Calling out to all the new students. On Wednesday, February 16th at 7pm, a New Student Bingo Night is being held at the Student Union Ballroom. Join for a night of fun, an opportunity to meet new people and maybe even win some prizes. Do not forget to RSVP!

While we are in the midst of Black History Month, we are celebrating with many events, here are some that you cannot miss! On February 17, the 2019 Academy Award winner in Costume Design for her work on Marvel’s Black Panther, Ruth E. Carter will be offering the keynote speech for CHC’s Annual Black Heritage Month. The event will take place at Bowker Auditorium starting at 5pm. As a tribute to the musical legacy of Frederick Tillis, on Sunday February 20th, the Department of Music & Dance is honoring the founder of UMass’ Jazz and African American Music Studies Program. The event will take place at the Tillis Performance Hall starting at 4pm. 

As classes lock in and the semester starts to pick up, it might feel like things are getting a little overwhelming. Take advantage of the fun activities that are being hosted on campus to get away from academic stress for a little while. On February 17th, starting at 7pm, the library is hosting a paint night. The event will be held at the W.E.B Du Bois Library, Floor 22. Registration is required to attend the event, click here to lock in your spot. 

We are ending the month with a big event. On February 25, American rapper Polo G will be performing at The Mullins Center. The doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 8pm. Attendees must show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative result taken within 72 hours prior to entry. Face coverings will be required at the event and must be worn at all times. Follow this link for more information and to buy tickets.  

Valentine’s day is the perfect reminder for us to spread love. It is important for us to carry out every action with compassion for others. For the rest of the week, be mindful of your thoughts towards yourself and others. Try to shift into a more positive and loving mindset. You know what they say… love conquers all. 

Winter Outdoor Adventures!

By Caroline Buck

1,273 Kids Sledding Illustrations & Clip Art - iStock

Getting back into the semester groove can be difficult, especially with the cold weather and short days. Despite these factors, fresh air is important for a variety of health benefits. If you are averse to the cold weather, here are some tips and tricks to possibly open your mind to spending some more time outdoors in the winter season, enjoyably! 

Bundle up! I know it seems like a simple concept, but it is typically overlooked. You should ask yourself: are you cold or do you just not have enough layers? The right number of layers can make all the difference in having an enjoyable outdoor experience. Materials such as wool, polyester, and synthetic blends, will keep you warm in the coldest of weather. Make sure to avoid cotton, as it is not good for cold weather since it absorbs moisture and lacks insulation. 

Go for a walk! Take a break from your work to stretch your legs. Walking can brighten your mood and increase your blood flow. Walking may seem like a mundane activity, but it has been known to improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your bones/muscles, improve sleep, increase energy levels, strengthen your immune system, reduce stress, etc. You can enjoy this time by listening to a podcast/music or even bring a friend along. Some close-by hiking locations include Mill River Conservation Area, Amethyst Brook Conservation Area, and Mount Warner Trailhead.

Go sledding! There are plenty of sledding hills spread around the campus, so pick one and go for it. Yes, a sled would be ideal for this situation but if you do not have the means to find a sled you can be creative and make one. Cardboard is a great substitute for a plastic sled.

Snowball fight! Build a snowman! You could get a group of friends together for a good ol’ fashioned snowball fight/snowman building. There is still a decent amount of the winter season left, so you could even find a time while it’s snowing. 

Try skiing or snowboarding! Join the UMass Amherst Ski and Board club for a trip to the mountains. All ages and skill levels are welcome. As a skier myself, I can assure you many people learn to ski and board later in life, so it’s never too late to give it a shot! 

With the cold month of February just beginning, try to keep some of these activities in mind. Keeping your body moving and blood flowing during these dark winter months will improve both your physical and mental health. If you bundle up properly, you may find an activity that makes winter y our new favorite season!