We are on the third week of school and some of us have no idea what to do after classes. Some are searching for jobs to help pay off students loans while some are already working. But there are some students who are bored out of their minds and are not really sure what to do around campus -- and who want to do it on a college student budget. If you are looking for some excitement and wanting a good time, here are a few fun activities guaranteed to leave lasting memories.
1. Get active, a new way.
Hate running and using machines at the gym? The gyms here on campus offer classes like yoga and Zumba to get you moving while still enjoying working out. Step outside your comfort zone and enjoy getting active a different way instead of running on a treadmill or riding the bike until you are dripping sweat. Check out the gym website for dates and times and take a group of friends to events and experience a new way to get active. Be sure to check out on Tuesdays and Thursdays for Zumba with Ashleigh to dance the night away.
2. Did someone say movie night?
Stuck inside your dorm on a Saturday night and not wanting to do your homework? Invite your floor to a movie night and take over the common room for a few hours and enjoy munching on sugary candies and buttery popcorn while you enjoy a film with your hall-mates. There is also the JC Cinema that plays newly released movies as well as University mall, where there are two dollar movies (cash, $2.50 for credit) on Tuesday nights.
3. Nom Noms.
For those who do have a meal plan, take a hike to the Globe, one of Mason’s dinning hall, and experience some international food. Every time I have been there, it does not disappoint, especially on the nights with the sesame chicken. For those who do not have a meal plan, Tuesday nights, starting at five, Brion’s Grille has a special offer for half off burgers. My roommates and I took advantage of that the first week and we only had to pay $5.83 for a burger, fries, and water. I had absolutely no complaints there, and our server was super sweet. There are other options like getting together and baking cookies or dinner while jamming out to your favorite tunes.
4. Explore outside of campus.
With DC being right around the corner, take a trip on the Mason Shuttle Bus and explore our backyard. Visit with friends venture around the National Mall strip, experience the beautiful architecture of Georgetown, or relax in the United States National Arboretum. Last year, I took a couple of trips into our nation’s capitol and got to see well-known artists, such as Usher and No Doubt perform live at the Global Citizen 2015 Earth Day event. DC is full of adventures whether it is a planned trip or spontaneous.
5. Patriots brave and bold.
Intramural sports are another great way to get active, but also meet new people. What is great about intramural sports is that they are not taken as serious as club sports and are really there for people to have fun and If you are not into doing the actual sport, come out and show some school spirit and support one of the many fall sports Mason has. For students, all the sporting events are free with your Mason ID and there is usually a free item. For example, last year I was able to snag a Mason scarf and seat cushion by attending the soccer games. And do not forget to memorize the Fight Song; it is crucial to know for the end of matches and games.
6. David Bowie flying in on a tiger made of lightning.
Last, but not least, as a great ice breaker for freshmen -- or just to have a good time -- have a game night and play card games like Apples to Apples or Cards Against Humanities. If you have not tried these games at home with family and friends, these games promise table talk and giggles that will have all participants laughing until stomachs ache.
