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.