Salon de Louie in the Financial District is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a modern, intimate salon with a warm and personal vibe. The space is small but clean and well-designed, with festive decorations that make it feel extra welcoming. You’re never just another appointment here—the staff take their time to listen to what you want and make sure you leave happy with your look.
What really stood out to me was how friendly and attentive everyone was. The stylists don’t just do your hair; they chat with you, tell stories, and make the whole experience enjoyable. It feels less like a chore and more like catching up with friends. If you’re looking for a salon that’s professional but still personal, I’d definitely recommend Salon de Louie.
Salon De Louie has partnered with the Campus Clipper to offer Pace University students a 10% discount when they show their valid student ID.
We found the place to be a modern Chinese restaurant with soft lighting and a warm ambience.
As an Asian American student, I often find myself feeling homesick and longing for the flavors that defined my childhood. Dishes with notes of chili sauce, sesame oil, or other familiar ingredients in a warm and comforting meal instantly take me back to the halcyon days of my youth. Now that I’ve moved to New York City, hundreds of miles from my grandmother’s kitchen, I’ve been on a quest to rediscover those nostalgic flavors in local restaurants. For those brisk, harsh-weather days when Pace University students would rather not trek to Chinatown, there’s a perfect spot nearby: Dim Sum Palace.
We perused the lengthy menu for a while before finally deciding on our evening meal.
Fellow student Kimi Debarger-Gestring and I spent our evening exploring the menu at Dim Sum Palace, selecting familiar comfort dishes and venturing into plates we’d never tried before. Conveniently located on Williams Street, just a short walk from our university dorms, the restaurant stands out with its glowing neon lights and warm interior. Inside, a modern arrangement of tables and fish tanks welcomes customers. The lighting is soft and soothing, creating a calming atmosphere. The baby-blue fish tanks, filled with eels, king crabs, and a variety of other sea creatures, added a unique touch. We even watched a staff member carefully retrieve a king crab from one of the tanks—talk about fresh food!
Kimi reflected on atmosphere, stating that the “overall aesthetic was very clean and put together, especially with the bright lighting.”
As we settled in, we couldn’t help but admire the ambiance. The gentle murmur of a diverse crowd and the soft clinking of teapots made the space feel lively yet relaxing. While the restaurant featured a modern vibe, it still felt authentically Chinese. It wasn’t overly formal—perfect for a hearty dinner after a long day of classes—though the waitstaff were impeccably groomed and uniformed, exuding professionalism. The menus offered a wide array of delectable options, leaving us both delightfully overwhelmed.
Our drinks and first course!
To start, I ordered a hot chrysanthemum tea, served in a glass pot perched over a candle flame. It was perfectly brewed—neither bitter nor over-steeped—with a subtle sweetness and floral notes that made it irresistibly soothing. We enjoyed it so much that we ended up drinking three pots! Kimi opted for another drink, Mai Tai, which she described as perfectly balanced—not overly strong with alcohol and delightfully fruity. It was the ideal complement to the warm flavors of the meal to come.
Our first course featured two flavorful starters: cold sesame noodles and mini sliced cucumbers with spicy Szechuan sauce. Both dishes had us eagerly diving in, their bold flavors setting the tone for the evening. The refreshing crunch of the cucumbers paired perfectly with the rich, oily noodles—a great way to begin the meal. Our main courses arrived shortly after. Kimi chose the Buddha Delight dumpling and spicy fresh mushroom dumpling, both vegetarian-friendly options that suited her dietary needs.
Our main course!
Meanwhile, I opted for a mix of shrimp dumplings, chicken dumplings, pork shumai, and shrimp shumai. The steamed traditional Chinese shrimp dim sum had a soft, delicate wrapping that allowed the seafood filling to shine. The shumai—both the shrimp and pork varieties—were hearty and flavorful, leaving me surprisingly full after just a few pieces. When paired with soy sauce and the cold sesame noodles, the dumplings made for a satisfying combination. My favorite dish of the night was the pork shumai, while Kimi’s top pick was her spicy mushroom dumplings.
“I think as someone who is Chinese and vegetarian, this was a great experience!” Kimi shared. “Oftentimes, I struggle to find Chinese restaurants with multiple options for me, but this place had four different vegetarian dumpling options—and that’s not counting the dishes we didn’t order. The interior of the restaurant felt modern and classy, and it reminded me of the Chinese restaurants I grew up visiting back home in California. I’d happily come back, especially to try more items!”
An array of sweet treats.
To end the night on a sweet note, we ordered taro buns and egg tarts, both of which were unforgettable. The taro buns were light purple, beautifully designed with swirls baked into their dough. They had a subtle taro flavor, incorporated into a soft, cakey, sweet dessert. The egg tarts, one of my personal favorites, had a flaky, crispy crust and a creamy, gooey filling. I may have eaten more than I care to admit!
The desserts alone—especially the egg tarts paired with tea—make Dim Sum Palace worth a visit. Overall, the meal was a delightful experience for both of us, especially as Asian American college students seeking flavors that connect us to our cultures.
Use this coupon to receive a discount the next time you visit!
Dim Sum Palace is offering students a 10% discount when they show their valid student ID and our Campus Clipper coupon!
Enter the back of the deli to find a wide range of snacks and pantry staples.
The Seaport Deli, a modest corner store near Pace University, offers an abundance of pastries, sandwiches, and other affordable conveniences for tourists and locals alike. With well-stocked shelves and diverse snack options, the deli caters to hungry students seeking pantry staples as well as Financial District regulars looking for a quick bite. Its seating area provides a cozy space for customers to unwind, chat, and enjoy the freshly prepared meals enticingly displayed behind glass.
Nadia Cook, a fellow Pace student, joined me for lunch at this local gem. We were greeted by an enthusiastic team of employees behind the counter, skillfully assembling sandwiches for a bustling lunch-hour crowd while maintaining cheerful, welcoming smiles. Their friendly banter and lighthearted jokes added to the deli’s authentic community charm. Toward the back, the store opens into a dining area and a section for browsing unique beverages, classic snacks, and basic cooking items, making the Seaport Deli a one-stop shop for meals and groceries.
Our weekday lunch included tea, chips, and paninis. I chose a peach oolong tea, jalapeño chips, and the Italian panini, while Nadia opted for a white mango tea, sour cream and onion chips, and the Oven Gold panini. These flavorful meals, paired with delicately sweet beverages, were the perfect midday pick-me-up after our long classes.
Our filling lunch in-between classes and meetings.
“The portions are great! For my first Italian panini, it was pretty good. If you like paninis, they have a lot of options,” Nadia noted. “I also liked how the store had a lot of different varieties of food, whether it’s snacks or sandwiches.”
The Italian panini featured tender ham and melted cheese layered with a generous spread of pesto, delivering a savory punch. The golden, perfectly toasted bread enhanced the flavor, making each bite satisfying. Paired with the tangy kick of my chips and the refreshing chilled tea, it was an excellent option for a quick but hearty meal.
For Pace students and Financial District professionals seeking a convenient and budget-friendly meal, the Seaport Deli is a true gem. Located just steps from Pace’s 151 Williams Street building, it offers freshly prepared options, from filling paninis to ice-cold drinks, all at affordable prices. Skip the chains and enjoy quality, community-based meals that won’t break the bank—perfect for students on a budget.
Thanks to a partnership with Campus Clipper, the Seaport Deli offers a 10% discount to university students, faculty, and staff with a valid ID.
I’m in my first semester of Senior year now, and listen— I’m still afraid of the dining hall. Kind of. It’s big, busy, and bright. It’s a space that still feels uncomfortable for me to enter some days. During my first three years of college, when I relied on the dining hall for meals because I lived on-campus, it was sort of like exposure therapy going in and out of that place at least twice a day. Now it takes more of an effort. The dining hall is unfamiliar again. But I push through that, and I go in anyway because I know I can. Because it’s not actually that bad once I get in there and sit down.
A few months into this semester, I’ve managed to find a rhythm. Every Monday I meet some friends for coffee, Wednesday we get dinner, Thursday we hang out after class. I try to make time for work, for the gym, for my school work, for my creative endeavors, and for my friends. All with the help of Google Calendar, of course. Every semester is a bit different. I meet new groups of people, and I experience new things. When I first started college I was 18, and now I can go out to bars on the weekends with those same friends I had back then. Things have changed, and so have I. I spend my time with people I’m comfortable around, and people who make me feel heard. Gone are the days where I forced myself to be around people who don’t respect me or my boundaries, the days where I overextended my social battery and pushed myself past the limit of what I was able to do.
my favorite area to walk around in the morning before class, Beacon Hill. There’s a new cat cafe that just opened up!
What I’ve learned (and am still learning) in my time at school is the importance of communication—clear, concise communication. Specifically, drawing lines when needed. It can be especially difficult, because even when there’s plenty of “how-to-set-boundaries” guides online and in books, ultimately it depends on every person involved. I mean, everyone thinks differently, right? But being able to effectively communicate your boundaries is an essential part of friendship, and it’s something I’m still learning to do. Saying “yes” even when you’re scared can be so important, but sometimes saying ‘yes’ to everything can cause issues. The importance of “no” is just as crucial in friendships. Knowing yourself, your boundaries, your energy and comfort levels—staying aware of what you need will no-doubt help your relationships with other people— can be what makes the difference in a meaningful relationship. Real friends won’t expect you to bend backwards at their every beck and call. Saying “yes” to everything is just as problematic as the opposite—something else I learned in my first years at college. There’s a certain balance that’s different for everyone, but by staying in tune with your body and mind, you’ll be able to figure out what works for you.
Human connections are the most important aspect of life. Even the most antisocial of us are social creatures. Our experiences, how we behave, and how we perceive the world are impacted by who we spend our time around. I’m trying to find the people I’ll spend the rest of it with, the people who make me feel like ‘me.’ I’m heading off into the so-called “real world” in just a few short months. I hear those first few months after college are going to be the “worst of my life,” which of course leaves me trembling in fear. But here’s the thing: sure people say it will be that, but I don’t think it has to be. There’s no point in my life I have to be at right now, or even next June or July—there’s no clear-cut blueprint for the point I’m supposed to be in my life by then. Or ever, really. I might feel lost, I mean, I feel lost now, months before I walk the stage at commencement. But taking a step back, I have to remind myself of what really matters. Life is about the relationships I form in my life, and the people I spend my time around. I think that’s true, at least. I’m only 22, I may need a few more years to figure out the meaning of life. But now I know that I’m capable of overcoming my fears, even if it takes a while. My outlook has changed and is still changing.
Enjoy 20% off at KongDog in Somerville with this coupon and a student ID!
By: Meg Carey
Meg Carey is studying creative writing and publishing at Emerson College in Boston. They love reading and writing sci-fi, horror, and romance (bonus points if it’s all three), as well as poetry. You can find them on instagram @megcareywrites, and substack @megcarey.
For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.
At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.
Ever since I started at college, I’d had my heart set on this one study abroad program offered. Basically, Emerson owns a castle in Limburg, the Netherlands, where students live and study for a semester. It’s just as strange and simultaneously magical as you’d imagine.
So naturally I applied my Sophomore year for the Spring semester my Junior year. It was far enough ahead that I told myself I could worry about it when it got closer to the time—it was a whole year away, after all! I had plenty of time to figure it out.
But when I got the list of people attending, I read through it and didn’t know a single name, which filled me with utter, unbridled dread. I’d be doing a semester with strangers– completely starting over and far from any familiarity I had with school back in Boston. The fall before I left I started thinking about dropping out. The thought of boarding a plane with a bunch of strangers sent this paralyzing fear through me, and I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to deal with it all. But I was also thinking I’d never be able to do this again in my life. It was a one-time opportunity.
So I decided to go through with it, because I knew I’d be pissed at myself if I didn’t. How could I let my anxiety win over me like that, and steal away yet another opportunity presented to me?
The view from my room in Well, the Netherlands
The first week abroad was just like orientation Freshman year—everyone rushing to make friends. A lot of people knew each other already too, and had established dynamics—both good and bad ones. It’s a small liberal arts college, you can imagine how it is.
I decided this time I’d hang back a bit. I’d take it a bit slower, even if that meant I wasn’t as “successful” as I wanted to be in making friends.
I realized while over there that I needed to stop thinking about other people and focus on myself. So that’s what I did. Those first few weeks I was in the library by myself until 2 or 3 in the morning every day. I sat there until the night watch came through and asked me to turn off the lights when I was done. For some reason, those are the memories that stick with me after coming home.
I decided in that first week that if I had one friend who I could eat some meals with and go on some trips with, that was enough. And I had made one, someone I sat next to on the plane. As time went on, I naturally found more people. It’s easier to find friends who suit you when you aren’t desperately seeking them out, bending over backwards to try and make them like you. It’s better to take things at your own pace.
From my trip to Amsterdam
In short, these three months abroad were the most fun of my life. Equally as stressful, too, but I’d go back and do it again in a heartbeat. The way you learn about yourself in unfamiliar situations and locations is something that you just have to experience (even if it’s not studying abroad, just going elsewhere and seeing other ways of living—it’s so important). Even if moving around and changing scenes feels overwhelming at times, pushing through that initial fear can be the most rewarding thing in the world. You just have to be wary of your limits and listen to yourself, your body, and your brain. That’s also something I learned while I was abroad. To know when to back out. When my spoons get too full. When to be brave and say “I quit, this is too much for me right now.” It’s a fine line that I’m learning to walk.
Who doesn’t love French pastries? Students get 15% off with this coupon at Le Macaron in Cambridge, MA!
By: Meg Carey
Meg Carey is studying creative writing and publishing at Emerson College in Boston. They love reading and writing sci-fi, horror, and romance (bonus points if it’s all three), as well as poetry. You can find them on instagram @megcareywrites, and substack @megcarey.
For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.
At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.
Nestled in New York City’s charming Seaport District, Cafe Patoro is a hidden gem known for its hand-rolled pão de queijo—Brazilian gluten-free cheese breads. This quaint cafe offers a diverse selection of sweet pastries, savory dishes, and expertly crafted beverages. The inviting space is made by the friendly baristas who warmly greet each customer. The cushy coffee shop, even when bustling with the diverse range of busy New Yorkers, charms those who enter with their autumnal and festive decor.
My roommate, Shannon Conner, and I visited Cafe Patoro to experience the noteworthy delights our neighborhood has swooned for. After admiring the tempting array of pastries on display, we placed our order. The staff, who appeared to know many of the regular patrons, further added to the cafe’s community feel. Conveniently located just a short walk from our campus, we found the price of $10 for a dozen pão de queijo to be a reasonable price, especially with the added benefit of a student discount.
“Considering they’re not overly priced to begin with, and if you add your discount for students in the area, it’s a really generous deal,” Conner noted.
We nestled into our corner seats with a large iced cappuccino served with oat milk, an iced chai substituted with almond milk, an almond croissant, a pain au chocolat, a pesto and prosciutto pão de queijo, a guava jam cornbread, a Brazilian carrot cake, and servings of their jalapeño, everything-seasoned, and original pão de queijo. This impressive selection showcased flavors of Brazil, refined to perfection in the heart of New York City.
Our delicious shared breakfast selection.
The gluten-free guava cornbread, toasted to perfection on the outside and moist on the inside, was a standout. Lightly sweet yet dense, it became our favorite of the day—its gluten-free nature a surprising detail we would not have noticed otherwise. The Brazilian carrot cake, with its smooth, fluffy texture and subtle fall flavors, paired beautifully with a rich chocolate ganache.
Among the savory options, the pesto and prosciutto pão de queijo stood out for its balance of sweet fig jam, zesty pesto, and tangy arugula. Out of the three pão de queijo flavors we tried, the everything-seasoned version was the favorite.
”It’s like a cheesy, everything bagel, but better,” Conner remarked. “It’s less dense than a bagel, it’s lighter and less doughy.”
The pão de queijo was delectable—its stretchy, cheesy texture highlighted by a perfect balance of cheddar, parmesan, and tapioca flour. Our meal was deeply satisfying, as it was evidently made up of quality and thoughtfully prepared delights. It’s rare to find a local spot that feels like a treat and is budget friendly. Cafe Patoro is offering students a 25% discount when they purchase a bag of pão de queijo, alongside any handcrafted drink.
Even with affordable options nearby, it’s important to note that not all students have the flexibility and privilege to dine out. The Pace University campus food pantry is one local resource for students facing food insecurity, providing access to groceries and a support system. Students can receive help without needing to sacrifice meals to make rent or pay for textbooks.
As students, we’re often juggling adulthood, wellbeing, internships, jobs, and school. Finding those local deals and campus resources help make the college experience more manageable, and even more enjoyable.
Music can be a powerful tool that connects us to distinct memories, evokes specific moods, and perfectly encapsulates feelings. The music I listened to during my college experience became increasingly significant as I reflected on how I connect music to memories, people, places, and emotions. Sometimes it plays in the background while you’re studying, blares in your headphones as you meet up with friends, or creates the perfect mood for wandering around the city by yourself. College was an important time for discovering music I loved because it acted as a de-stressor, a motivator, and a mood shifter. It made long hours in the library easier, relieved stress the night before a big exam, and motivated me to keep going despite the challenges and external factors in my life. Music is my biggest outlet for when I’m experiencing overwhelming feelings, many of which are evoked during time spent in undergrad. My taste developed significantly over those four years as I discovered new places and learned more about myself.
My experiences reflect that the benefits of music, especially as a student, can improve your mood amidst the numerous stressors in a student’s life. Music became not only an outlet for self-expression and stress relief but also a hobby. As my student guide describes in detail, attending live music events became one of my favorite things due to their low price and accessibility in New York City. Experiences enrich our lives, and especially as a student, engaging in activities outside the classroom is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Having a fulfilling personal life with hobbies and activities beyond an academic setting helps maintain a sense of importance once student life is over. Music was a significant part of how I discovered my sense of self, and I am increasingly grateful as I enter postgrad life. I never fully understood how music affects our mood and stress levels, but I recently began researching this topic.
Recent USC research underscores the profound impact of music education on adolescent well-being, revealing benefits that extend beyond the development of neural connections. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology highlights how music education not only enhances cognitive function and creativity but also boosts mental health and emotional stability. Beatriz Ilari, a USC Thornton associate professor, notes that music can help students navigate emotions, strengthen their connection to school and community, and foster a hopeful outlook on the future. This research, especially pertinent in the wake of the pandemic’s impact on student mental health, underscores the importance of accessible music education programs in supporting positive youth development and addressing disparities in access, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds.
Music’s role in enhancing mental health and personal development is evident both in my experiences and in recent research. Although I hadn’t fully understood the psychological impact of music until recently, learning about these benefits has reinforced my appreciation for its role in my life. Music remains a vital outlet for managing overwhelming feelings and discovering new aspects of myself as I navigate postgrad life.
Georgie Fleming is a recent graduate of Fordham University with a BA in Communications and French and Francophone Studies. While at Fordham, she frequently published articles in a music publication and worked as a barista. She grew up in Newport, Rhode Island. She spends her free time going to the beach, reading, and baking.
For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.
At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.
DIY, arguably created around the 1970’s, is a community of artists writing, producing, performing, and releasing music made completely independently. It encourages artists to be self-reliant and evokes complete artistic freedom without associating with big labels. A Medium article by the DIY Report cites the ethics of DIY as: “self-sufficiency, personal relationship with fans, and freedom of expression” (https://medium.com/@thediyreport/what-is-diy-music-4093b78c00f0). The idea of DIY is often associated with impromptu shows which are typically held in smaller venues or private homes. It’s well-liked amongst students because of its accessibility and the spontaneity of hosting a show within your own home for small audiences and at a low cost.
I became introduced to DIY music through many of my musician friends, who upon coming to college, sought to find like-minded artists to collaborate with and form bands. DIY was an inexpensive route for student artists to start performing for audiences and try out new styles affordably and conveniently. My involvement with a student-run coffee shop and event space, Rodrigue’s Coffeehouse at Fordham, also contributed to my discovery of DIY. Rodrigue’s Coffeehouse is a club and an on-campus space for Fordham students where they can enjoy a study space with one-dollar coffee during the day, and concerts at night. We hosted concerts and open mics monthly where student performers could showcase their skills. Being a member of this club was my first exposure to DIY music and fostered my love for finding new artists and supporting up-and-coming performers.
Beyond Rodrigue’s, Fordham has a substantial culture surrounding house shows. House shows would be hosted by many different students; my roommates and I would occasionally host some of our own. Typically, a band would play at their own house or approach a friend of theirs with better space and propose a date, time, and charge at the door. Since DIY musicians attempt to procure an accessible artist community, charges for house shows are minimal (less than $15) and costs either go towards furthering the band’s projects or a charitable cause. Particularly, during my spring semester, many house shows decided to make their concerts into fundraisers, donating proceeds to causes such as medical aid in Palestine.
Rodrigue’s Coffeehouse at Fordham University
DIY is an enticing community of artists because it thrives on promoting creativity without constraints. It can be a way to find accessible entertainment within your community, discover new artists, or learn more about music culture. Beyond the university setting, DIY is all over New York City. While there are many designated venues for DIY artists, it never hurts to take a chance on a band performing at your local bar or restaurant.
Working with a student budget? Enjoy $8.50 lunch specials at Lunetta Pizza Monday through Friday!
By Georgie Fleming
Georgie Fleming is a recent graduate of Fordham University with a BA in Communications and French and Francophone Studies. While at Fordham, she frequently published articles in a music publication and worked as a barista. She grew up in Newport, Rhode Island. She spends her free time going to the beach, reading, and baking.
For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.
At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.
Finding affordable concerts in New York City can be difficult, amongst the countless pricey entertainment options. While getting a ticket to see an artist you love at a larger venue such as Madison Square Garden or Radio City Hall requires preparation months in advance to find the best prices, if you are looking for someone affordable and last minute – there are plenty of options. Finding live events does not have to be an expensive or time-consuming process, especially given the concentrated number of music venues in New York City. Here are some of my favorite spots, some of which are available to under-21 audiences, for a fun night out without pushing your budget!
One of New York’s most iconic venues, the Bowery Ballroom is a medium-sized yet intimate ballroom in the Lower East Side which has hosted artists from Kanye West to Lana Del Rey. This venue is one of my personal favorites because it is small enough where you can get a good view from basically anywhere in the crowd, without being too cramped. Upcoming artists playing this summer include Medium Blind and Mapache. Tickets here are typically around the $25-30 range and the majority of shows are 18+.
Mercury Lounge is also in the area and has shows almost every night, some of which are 18+. This venue typically hosts independants up and coming artists and is smaller than the Bowery Ballroom. It’s a chill venue and is perfect for last minute stop as tickets are available at the door for under $20. Mercury Lounge is great late night spot if you’re looking for something laid-back and affordable.
The Knitting Factory is another great venue in the Lower East Side which is 18+. This is one of the smaller venues with tickets that range from completely free to $20. Attending shows here is always great because there is usually one band out of the numerous that play that you might now know. Typically, nights at the Knitting Factory are stacked with about 3-4 bands, which is a great opportunity to experience new artists.
Lastly, Webster Hall is the largest of these venues, but small enough where it provides a great concert experience. Close by to the other venues mentioned, this is the place to catch mid-size to larger artists – upcoming shows include Clairo, Duster, and The Lemon Twigs. Most concerts here are 18+ and tends to cater towards a younger crowd. Tickets can be on the pricier side than the other smaller venues, but if your favorite artist is playing, it is well worth it.
Looking for a late-night bite? Check out Rosetta’s Pizza and get 20% off with your student ID!
By Georgie Fleming
Georgie Fleming is a recent graduate of Fordham University with a BA in Communications and French and Francophone Studies. While at Fordham, she frequently published articles in a music publication and worked as a barista. She grew up in Newport, Rhode Island. She spends her free time going to the beach, reading, and baking.
For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.
At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.
Whether you’ve been a music connoisseur since you were young or you’ve only recently started exploring and refining your taste, the journey to find your genre is almost as tenuous as choosing a college. Finding the one or multiple genres that appeal most to you can be helpful in discerning which concerts and events to attend, but also allows you to narrow down your hunt for new artists. While most of us listen to a whole range of genres every single day, shifting effortlessly from hip-hop to pop to country, it can be a daunting process to find your favorites. With unlimited access at our fingertips, how do you establish a unique music taste?
Start with the classics.
It’s important to listen to a whole range of genres before deciding what you do or don’t like. A good place to start is finding the classics of whichever genre you intend to explore. For example, if you’re trying to get into hip-hop and don’t know where to start, Spotify’s “Gold School” playlist is a great introduction. Utilizing your music platform’s curated playlists is great tool, even if you don’t have a music subscription, you can easily search YouTube for “hip-hop classics.” This exploration will likely be the most time-consuming part of your journey, however, most music lovers know that the hunt for a great artists is fulfilling t. Listening to the classics of each genre can be a great introduction, but don’t be shy in asking ask friends for recommendations.
Use streaming platforms to your advantage.
As previously mentioned, streaming platforms, most notably Spotify, provide excellent curation and opportunities to discover new music. Their algorithms are designed to recommend new music for you based upon your previous listening and provide a range of playlists for every genre, time period, and mood. You can even search a range of terms such as “Summer Mix” or “Morning Mix” to find curated playlists based on your recent listening. Apple Music also has a similar feature, though not as extensive as Spotify’s, the platform provides personalized playlists such as “New Music,” “Favorites,” and “Chill.”
Spotify’s curated “Chill Morning Mix” for me
Experience it live.
Experiencing music live is an essential part of supporting the artists you’re exploring, and it provides an immersive experience. Live music can also be affordable and accessible if you are exploring smaller artists based in your city. Attending these events is a way to create memories and potentially find a community with aligned interests. The collective experience of attending concerts is crucial to appreciating the genres that you are streaming, and it might introduce you to something new.
Sit down and listen.
Finally, the most time-consuming but gratifying part of this journey is sitting down and listening. Take the time to explore different artists and listen to their discography all the way through. It may take weeks to even scratch the surface of what you’re looking for, but as you listen more, the more your streaming platform can work alongside you to produce better recommendations. Trust the recommendations of Spotify’s “Discover Weekly,” and always be open to listening to something new. Spending the time and energy to explore genres will ultimately be rewarding for your musical journey.
While I can only speak to my own experiences, these were the four tips I found most helpful as I explored my music taste through high school and college. If you spend half of your life with headphones on, trust me, finding songs you love is important.
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By Georgie Fleming
Georgie Fleming is a recent graduate of Fordham University with a BA in Communications and French and Francophone Studies. While at Fordham, she frequently published articles in a music publication and worked as a barista. She grew up in Newport, Rhode Island. She spends her free time going to the beach, reading, and baking.
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