Crash Course Connections Ch. 4: Can Men and Women Be Just Friends?

July 2nd, 2025

“Men and women can never be just friends.” It’s a message we’ve heard time and time again from pop culture. From the classic will-they-won’t-they dynamic of When Harry Met Sally to the heartbreak in My Best Friend’s Wedding, the suggestion is clear: platonic relationships between men and women are rare, unstable, or inevitably romantic, unless one is gay or already taken (and even that isn’t a guarantee).

Since I didn’t have male friends in high school, I decided to test this theory when I came to college. What I found was far more nuanced than Hollywood would have us believe.

As children, gender doesn’t matter much in friendships. Sure, some of us have “kindergarten boyfriends” or giggle over crushes, but there’s no real romantic intent. That all begins to change when puberty starts. Suddenly, there’s an invisible pressure surrounding every boy-girl interaction, especially if physical attraction is involved. Even when there’s no chemistry, platonic intimacy between men and women often carries social baggage. People expect something more. And that expectation complicates things.

Despite this, I believe men and women can be friends—even when there is or was attraction involved. Over my time in college, I’ve had both successful and failed friendships with men. The determining factor in every case has been maturity. Mutual respect, emotional self-awareness, and clear communication are essential. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, because you can only control your own behavior, not how the other person feels or acts.

Man and woman signifying strictly platonic relationship https://qleanmarket.amanaimages.com/items

One of my first close male friends in college was Jack. We met in class and kept running into each other until casual conversations turned into a solid friendship. We had similar upbringings and a shared sense of humor. At first, I wasn’t sure how to navigate the friendship, and I wondered if he had ulterior motives or if I might be attracted to him. But over time, I realized we could genuinely enjoy each other’s company without anything romantic.

Jack became part of my friend group, and we even went on a group trip together that summer. But by junior year, tensions between him and others in our group escalated. Eventually, I was the only remaining tie between Jack and the rest of our circle.

I was torn. The conflict didn’t involve me directly, but I couldn’t ignore the emotional toll it was taking. I care deeply for my friends, and when they’re hurt or disrespected, I feel it too. Ultimately, I decided to create some distance between Jack and myself. That space brought clarity and peace. It’s important to recognize when a relationship is no longer mutual and nourishing (platonic or otherwise). You’re allowed to step away from connections that drain you.

Jack was my first real example of what platonic love between a man and a woman could look like. That experience helped me build fulfilling friendships later, like with Tyler, a barista I see regularly, and Brian, another friend from school.

Attraction can complicate things, but it doesn’t have to destroy the possibility of friendship. Sometimes it leads to a romantic relationship; other times, it fades or exists unreciprocated. If you sense romantic tension—yours or theirs—addressing it honestly is usually the healthiest path forward. It can be risky, especially if you have strong feelings, but clarity is better than emotional limbo. If your feelings are mild or unclear, it may be best to focus elsewhere and pay attention to how they interact with you.

If the other person is in a committed relationship, respecting that boundary is crucial. True friendship cannot thrive if it undermines someone else’s partnership.

In the end, friendships between men and women are possible, but they require maturity, honesty, and emotional intelligence from both parties. And like any meaningful relationship, they’re worth the effort.

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By Logan O’Connor

Logan is a rising senior at NYU pursuing degrees in Journalism and Politics. She grew up on Long Island, but always dreamed of living in New York City. When she’s not in class or at her favorite local cafe, you can find her wandering the city (film camera in hand) or baking up a storm in her kitchen.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram andTikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for ournewsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.
As always, let me know if you have any questions!

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Strengthening Human Connections

July 1st, 2025

College is filled with people, even on the smallest campuses it is impossible to take a walk without passing a professor or student on your way to the cafeteria. Forming human connections is one of the greatest benefits of attending college because there is such a vast variety of personalities to meet and learn from.

I go to college at Pace University in New York, but I have met people from all over. My freshman year suitemate was from California, my sophomore year roommate is from Colorado, and one of my friends is all the way from Sweden. I met a girl from the UK, a girl from Italy, and I even know of a professor from Russia. Meeting people from all over the country, let alone the globe, I have learned about many different ways of life in contrast to my own. 

Thinking back, my mindset during my freshman year was very closed. I was open to forming bonds with new people, but I was hesitant to adapt and accept other opinions or perspectives that differed from my own. It took time, but throughout the course of my freshman and sophomore years I began to find the value in learning from others. My Swedish friend, for example, taught me how to be an effective listener. I had always had a lot of confidence in my own listening skills, but once I talked to her I realized that my skills could use improvement. She was always physically attentive and maintained consistent eye contact while I talked. She gave relevant responses and questions that emphasized her engagement. My roommate from Colorado taught me the importance of living life loosely. I remember feeling very rigid in my routine when I first started school, but he taught me to live freer and enjoy smaller things. I have many meaningful memories of the two of us laughing hysterically over the simplest things as we walked to class. Even though the things we laughed about were simple, I don’t remember finding things as funny before he taught me to live the way that he did. My freshman year suitemate from California taught me how to be kinder than I already was. We had many conversations about injustices and the way that people were mistreated and it really helped me to gain a deeper appreciation and compassion for others. I played a part in this dynamic too. I, like my friends, contributed to the college social sphere of growth and development, offering and imparting my own talents and skills to my friends.

Three of my good friends at the 9/11 Memorial.

I never expected to learn so much from the people around me. I always did my best to listen to my friends and be the best possible friend that I could, but I never realized how much I could learn from their words and stories. In many ways, the lessons and messages that I have gotten from friends have impacted me far deeper than any of the coursework I have read throughout my time in school. There are certain things that texts simply cannot convey as powerfully as real human connections can. 

The Andy Griffith Show

One of the most purposeful elements that has impacted my sociality has been The Andy Griffith Show. A friend of mine from back home had introduced me to the show a while back and while I was looking for a new show to watch at college, I came across his recommendation. The show follows a widowed sheriff, Andy Taylor, and his adventures within a close knit community in small town Mayberry, North Carolina. The show is very wholesome and many of the interactions between the characters are very genuine and compassionate. I watched about six seasons of it throughout my first two years at college and it informed a great deal of my social decisions and values. The characters make many mistakes throughout the show: losing their tempers and hurting the people close to them, acting on their irrational fears as well as gossiping behind each other’s backs. The Andy Griffith Show teaches forgiveness. Despite the imperfections of each character, everybody remains close with one another, remaining united and connected. The close-knit community of fictional Mayberry remains so intact on account of the community’s persistence and faith in each other. 

None of the people I have met at college have been perfect. The people I have grown to love and care for at college have made mistakes, including myself. These mistakes were often rare and with no ill intentions, making it easy to forgive and forget. This is not always the case, however. Sometimes people will consistently make decisions that will negatively affect others and it can be hard to forgive someone who does not make an effort to change their harmful behavior. 

Human relationships can be very complicated and it can be challenging to find the right people. The idea of meeting so many new people can be intimidating, but it can serve as a significant learning opportunity for students. These human connections can help people grow and branch out; college serves as a great space for strengthening bonds with others. 

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By Ryder Huseby

Ryder is going into his Junior year as a Writing and Rhetoric major at Pace University in Pleasantville, New York. Ryder is a passionate reader and enjoys going to the movie theater as often as he can.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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How to Attend the Met Gala (Sort of)

July 1st, 2025

Let’s get one thing straight: I have not been invited to the Met Gala, (yet). But I have attended in my own way and it has been unforgettable.

For anyone unfamiliar, the Met Gala is New York’s most exclusive red carpet event, held annually on the first Monday in May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It’s where celebrities, designers, and cultural icons come dressed in high fashion (and often high drama) according to a theme curated by Anna Wintour, the former editor-in-chief of  Vogue. Official tickets reportedly cost tens of thousands of dollars, and even some A-listers don’t make the cut. So what’s a college student with a love for fashion, fame, and fun to do?

The simple solution is this: get creative and be bold.

The real magic of the Met Gala actually starts long before anyone steps foot onto that iconic staircase. Every year, dozens of celebrities get ready for the event at a handful of hotels near the Upper East Side. The two best-known hotspots? The Mark and The Carlyle. The Carlyle is my personal favorite. It’s a little more tucked away, less chaotic, and still delivers absolute fashion royalty.

Every year, a ton of fans wait outside The Met itself, eager to get a peek at the red carpet. However, with the massive tent setup, heavy security, and crowds of paparazzi, it’s nearly impossible to catch any real action, even if you manage to snag a spot right at the front of the barricade across the street. This is why I love visiting the hotels. I’ve made a tradition of heading to The Carlyle the past two years, and if you time it right, you’ll be that much closer to the action. My Met Gala strategy doesn’t involve barricades or elbowing into crowds. It’s about patience, timing, and good walking shoes.

I recommend heading to the general area of the Met Gala around 9–10 PM. While many streets will be blocked off, you can usually get fairly close to The Carlyle on 76th Street. Now, I’m not saying to push back against security or ignore barricades — definitely don’t do that — but I do suggest politely hanging around nearby. If you’re persistent and respectful, you’ll often find that eventually you’re allowed to stand surprisingly close to the hotel entrance.

I’ve seen everyone from Chris Hemsworth to Kendall Jenner step out of their SUVs after the Met Gala, heading inside The Carlyle to change into their iconic after-party looks. Seeing these showstopping outfits up close feels like watching your own private runway show and it’s absolutely mesmerizing. The vibe around the hotel is usually much calmer than the red carpet chaos, which means celebrities are often more relaxed and more likely to interact with fans.

Chris Hemsworth! I can vouch that he looks like a real God.
Sydney Sweeney and the true star of the Met Gala, her dog.

It’s important to say this: there’s a difference between being a fan and being intrusive. I always stay on the opposite sidewalk, don’t push to the front, and never follow anyone beyond that single moment. This isn’t about chasing celebrities, it’s about appreciating the rare, electric thrill of sharing space with a moment in pop culture.

So no, I haven’t walked the Met Gala carpet. I haven’t posed under the massive tent or climbed those steps in custom couture. But I’ve felt the buzz, seen the stars, and even caught a few waves and smiles. And in New York? That’s close enough to feel like you’re part of the story.

The next time the first Monday in May rolls around, don’t scroll through Vogue’s red carpet slideshow from your dorm. Throw on a comfortable outfit, grab a friend, and head uptown. Your Met Gala moment is waiting with no invite required.

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By: Skylar Park 

Skylar Park is a Film & TV student at NYU with a passion for storytelling and city adventures. When she’s not writing or filming, you can find her running by the East River or hunting down the coziest bookstores in New York City.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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Healing Isn’t Linear

July 1st, 2025

It is in our human nature to believe that you can do everything on your own. In college, there is an unspoken pressure to keep your life in order and maintain the “picture perfect” college image, even when you’re falling apart mentally and emotionally. My depression and anxiety have become a part of my daily life and have intertwined with my college experience in a negative way. Although I have found multiple ways of coping with my mental health, including coloring and doing puzzles, I have found that therapy has really helped me with the demands that come with college. 

I started to entertain the idea of taking therapy when I realized that it isn’t just for people with extreme trauma or people who have deep emotional scarring from their experiences. I didn’t realize that it was a useful tool that everyone could use to feel better about themselves in any setting. When I signed up for therapy, I didn’t know what to expect. I was nervous I’d be judged or that nothing would come of it. I was also concerned because I was getting a male therapist instead of a female, which made me wonder if I could be more personal with a man.

When I reflect on my time spent in therapy, I love that I am speaking the truth without judgment and that my therapist listened without interrupting. My therapist asked thoughtful and thorough questions that helped both him and me understand why I was feeling the way that I was and how we can take those feelings and turn them into a positive instead of a negative. I also loved that his mentally wasn’t to “fix me” but to help me feel better so that I was able to make my life feel more manageable, allowing me to continue my daily responsibilities.

A college student benefiting from therapy. Image credit: https://charleston.edu/counseling/index.php

In hindsight, therapy hasn’t “cured” me. It has been an important tool to help identify the triggers. It helps me with what my therapist calls my “inner critic”. The biggest takeaways that therapy has taught me is that you are not your thoughts. Even though your mind says something that has a negative connotation to it, that doesn’t make it true. Therapy has helped me challenge those thoughts with evidence of the good things that I have done. I also have learned that coping skills are important. Whether it’s using breathing techniques or writing things down, or in my case, doing puzzles and coloring, simple tools go a long way in important your mental health. The most important takeaway is that healing isn’t linear. Some days you’ll feel amazing and other days you’ll feel like you’re back at square one. Progress isn’t a straight line, and it’s important to recognize that there will be good days and bad days and that’s okay.

Therapy is not weakness, it’s strength. It’s one of the most powerful forms of self-care I’ve ever invested in, and if it’s accessible to you, I encourage you to give it a try. I know in some situations it may feel like a “last resort” but anyone can benefit from it. Most colleges offer free or low-cost counseling services for students. Start with one session and go from there. You don’t have to commit to forever, so just commit to showing up, because the truth is, taking care of your mind supports every part of your life. Your wellness. Your fitness. Your relationships. Your academics. You don’t have to carry the weight of college, or life by yourself. There is help. There is hope. And you are worthy of both.

Although therapy can benefit your mental health, other ways include sitting down at a spa and relaxing. Get 10% off at Spa Joie using your student I.D.

By: Yamilia Ford

Yamilia Ford is a rising senior at Pace University with a major in business management and three minors in journalism, creative writing, and film studies. Her passion for writing allows her to inspire through her own creative lens, giving people the opportunity to relate to her.

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.

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Niche-ing New York City: Talents Out of School

June 30th, 2025
Heather Male

In an attempt to begin this guide with a success story, I met with one of the most talented, most successful people I know to tell her story: Heather Male. My aunt, friend, and role model, she has accomplished what many young creatives living in New York City long to – a balance between a great salary and a fulfilling creative outlet. After work at her corporate day job, she spends evenings writing at coffee shops, taking acting classes at the Kimball Studio, and collaborating with photographer Charles Johnstone on their photo books, one of which is currently on display in The Helmut Newton Foundation Museum for Photography’s Polaroids exhibition. 

What many of us broke liberal arts students long to understand is this: how did she get here? What steps did she take after graduating that can land us a successful career built on our talents? Unfortunately, as Heather has found, no two paths to success are the same, even within the same niche. Her first piece of advice is that we learn to live with that and become nimble and adaptable when it comes to change. Her second piece of advice, however, is that we set up a good foundation upon which to build; while we won’t ever be able to replicate the exact same opportunities – what she calls “happy accidents” – that landed her where she is today, the things we can plan for – like going to school and getting trained – will set for us a foundation that will yield the most opportunities. 

For her, that meant graduating from Fordham University with a double major in Film and Theatre and a minor in Communications followed by a two-year acting conservatory at Esper Studio. Dedicated to the Meisner Technique – based on emotionality and improvisation, producing especially instinctive, empathic, authentic actors – the Esper Studio has also trained well-known actors like Jeff Goldblum, Kristen Davis, Ian Somerhalder, and Kathy Bates, among others. Excellent actors, Heather notes, who are successful and getting paid. It was here, and in the consequent years at the Kimball Studio, where she built her community. She found herself surrounded by actors of different ages, at different stages of their lives, whom she could teach and from whom she could learn – she had a lineup of exceedingly intimate friends to go to for help and advice no matter the problem. 

Outside of acting class, Heather grew her network by bussing tables, running food, and cocktail waitressing, jobs that she found made her the best money while also providing her the opportunity to meet hundreds of new people every day and to develop relationships with her regulars. She never felt like she was sacrificing time that could be spent creating because the job was layered with possibility and benefit – you never know who you’ll be talking to that night, and in New York City, it is a near-guarantee that you’ll meet someone important. Whether you work in food service, retail, or as a barista at Starbucks, Heather just advises that you stay in the mix. College students should find a way to spend their breaks in the city, get out of the apartment, and establish your community – “To have the highest odds of a happy accident, you have to be here.” 

Believe me, Heather knows it’s not the easiest city to live in, especially compared to the glamorized New York City we all dream about. Whatever your talent, however, suffering will help you – it will add a new dimension to your character in a play, it will add a unique emotion to your painting, it will prepare you for any conflict that comes up in your PR job. We learn by experiencing, and the best way to experience is to get out there, to meet people, to begin building your foundation for success.

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By Lauren Male

Lauren Male is a senior at Pace University majoring in English and Communications, with a minor in Journalism. She is pursuing Pace’s M.S. Publishing program. When she’s not reading, Lauren can be found trying new coffee shops, thrift shopping, and spending all of her money on concert tickets.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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Paris, Texas and how it changed the way I see NYC

June 28th, 2025

One of the most exciting aspects of going to school in NYC is the artistry and magic behind the film industry here. As a film enthusiast, filmmaker, and actor myself, I have always believed that although the industry lies in Los Angeles, that the heart of indie, unique, and distinctive voices lies here. Being in the same environment where legends like Scorsese, Bob Dylan, Al Pacino, Spike Lee, and Robert De Niro stepped foot in and marked their paths inspires me everyday as an artist, but more importantly makes me want to forge my own path and my own artistic process. 

Martin Scorsese and Robert de Niro on the set of Taxi Driver (1971).
Image credits: https://www.fastcompany.com/3066462/cinephile-alert-the-martin-scorsese-museum-exhibition-has-come-to-nyc

When I arrived in NYC to start classes, the first thing I set out to do was to visit the historic and iconic IFC Cinemas in the West Village. Upon seeing it I felt transformed. Despite having been in New York a few times before, I had never gotten a chance to explore it through my love for art, and even just seeing felt magical until now. They were doing a showing of Paris, Texas, a film that absolutely floored me the first time I watched it due to its philosophical richness and emotional depth. I decided that that would be the first film I would watch in New York City, and I couldn’t have chosen a better film to set the stage for such a monumental chapter in my life – the first year of college; away from home. 

IFC Center in West Village, NYC

What captures me about Paris, Texas is the striking portrayal of what it’s like to be on a search to find yourself, to see what your place in the world is and why it’s meaningful. The protagonist, Travis, is introduced to the audience as an amnesiac who is lost, wandering the desert alone without any idea of who his past self entailed. The film shows the journey he faces in reconstructing his life, but more importantly, how the choices he makes as he finds himself are different from those of the man he abandoned. It touches on a core belief of Jean Paul-Satre, that existence precedes essence; that the choices you make and reasoning behind them are what determines your destiny. Essentially, we are all born with a Tabula Rasa, or a blank slate. There could not be a moment that is more deserving of this ideology than going to college. When we enter college, we can all be a blank slate. You don’t have to be the same exact person you were in high school, and the choices you make while in college are what often set yourself up for what can be a very rewarding and fulfilling life.

Paris, Texas Still – Travis wandering desert
Image credit: https://inalonelyplacefilm.com/2014/11/30/paris-texas-a-visual-trip/

As an artist and especially someone pursuing a fine arts degree, I think that we are all blank slates. We are all trying to find not only what motivates us to create art, but also our own niche and our own style of artistry. “I think college can be an opportunity where your art will grow, flourish, and expand beyond your very eyes with the help of your education and the people you meet. Even for non-artists or people who enjoy art as more of a hobby, this idea can be put into practice in careers. We are trying to find what makes us good at what we are, what makes us want to pursue what we are pursuing, and more importantly we are exploring who we are as people. 

Another aspect of Paris, Texas that I find is worth mentioning is its ideas regarding time, memory, and space. Director Wim Wenders uses a variety of open, vast shots, where the characters are seen as miniscule behind the scenery of the American west. This choice is intentional, as is any choice a filmmaker makes in the creation of their films, but what makes this such a valuable choice is the statement it makes about our place in the world. Arguably we are only a very small fraction of history, of the world, of time.

Paris, Texas still: Travis wandering desert
Image credit: https://spfilmjournal.wordpress.com/2013/06/24/paris-texas-by-wim-wenders-1984/

Like Travis at the start of the film, we are immediately subjected to being in the vast, empty, and almost liminal south Texan desert, leading us to feel the same confusion as him. After he gets reunited with his brother and begins his journey to find his ex-wife, the closer he gets to the city and urbanization the more his memories start to return back to him. Paris. Texas not only evokes the fact that memory keeps us all grounded, but also suggests that time can reshape itself. We can’t necessarily forget our past, but maybe we don’t have to. Being able to self-reflect and grow from our past, while also keeping the value in the memories that matter is a lesson that I think anyone should take from this film, and also this important stage in life. In a city like New York, you can almost feel as isolated and stuck with your own thoughts as if you were in the desert, but being able to use those moments with yourself and feel connected to what feels like home is often what gives us the motivation to keep going towards our goals and dreams. 

Entrance of the IFC Center in West Village

What left me most in awe after exiting the theatre during this showing was the ending of the film. On the big screen, there is absolutely nothing like it. The green light on the empty parking lot roof that overlooks the twilight sky, seeing Travis leave his child with Jane after he finally tracked her down, and ending with him being alone once again is more open to interpretation than I can think of.

Paris, Texas still: Jane and her son reunite
Image credit: https://inalonelyplacefilm.com/2014/11/30/paris-texas-a-visual-trip/

The main thing that I find powerful about the ending is the idea of space, silence, and letting go. The fact that he lets Jane and their son go off, without his physical intervention, shows the way in which internal redemption doesn’t always end in a “happily ever after.” He acknowledges that his past self did harm, and rather than go back, he decides that keeping space between them is the best course of action he could take, but leaves satisfied in his ability to fix something. His transformation and character growth was introspective, and despite being left in the same physical predicament that he started (alone, wandering, a nomad), he isn’t who he was at the start of the film because he remembers his past. In more ways than one, I think this is reflective of how I see my college journey. Wenders captures brilliantly the weight that lies within silence, within solitude, within goodbyes, and within starting over, and similarly, college can feel like that too. You are learning your place in the world, you are saying goodbye to a life that you can’t completely go back to, and you are learning to become your very best company. College forces you to confront the idea of who you think you are, and will lead you to grow inwardly and internally, rather than it being a big, climactic moment. 

Paris, Texas still: Travis watches as Jane and their son drive off
Image credit: https://velveteyes.net/movie-stills/paris-texas/

Change can be scary, college can be scary, even being alone can be scary. But it doesn’t always have to be. Change can lie in what feels familiar and can push us to new corners if we let it.

After your film experience at the IFC, take 20% off at Absolute Coffee!
Enjoy coffee, tea, pastries, and more!


By Avril Walter

Avril Walter is a Sophomore at New York University, majoring in Drama and Cinema Studies. Coming from an Argentinian background, she loves anything related to futbol, steak, and dulce de leche. When she is not in class, she can be found playing the violin, running, cooking, or at the movie theatre.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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Dreamland Ch. 3: Humility, and how the city of dreams can make you feel like a nobody

June 25th, 2025
The city of dreams in question. Image Credit: https://www.rolcruise.co.uk/blog/a-guide-to-new-yorks-skyline

It turns out I’m not the only person in the world who loves to write. Wild, no? I grew up around Indians and Indian Americans, which meant that, generally speaking, any artistic prowess was meant to be fostered in between better, more lucrative things. But more than that, I just happened to not surround myself with people who would’ve thought to seriously pursue English. I didn’t think myself above or below them in any way; we were just different. I appreciated that, honestly. But I did spend those months before college eager to meet more like-minded people, and it was still a shock to see the gradient of creatives walking down the street alongside me.

Something I didn’t expect to contend with was this feeling of no longer being special. I’ve always been friends with curious, bright people, but at NYU it’s as though every single person I meet has created something, reinvented something, pushed something to its limits and then beyond. I, on the other hand, have written something that falls in a long line of stories in the same exact genre, and will soon fall to obsolescence. 

In New York, I began to feel this immense pressure to be entirely singular. I have always been reserved about sharing the details of my writing with other people, but I now felt obligated to add caveats: I wrote these books at such a young age that they are bound to be less than perfect, I plan to move beyond this genre when I’m older, I read so much more than this (I read classical literature, please recognize my intellect). 

The craziest part about this? Nobody cares. 

I keep having to remind myself that I can still take pride in having put in the effort to bring something to fruition. It doesn’t make sense that I can write two entire novels and still feel inadequate, then turn around and assure everyone else that there is no time limit to accomplishment. Why can’t I apply that logic to myself?

Also, there are students at NYU better at writing than I am, big shocker. I see that every day I sit in a creative writing class, and before the disheartenment sets in, I force that fact to motivate me instead. I get more passionate, and I become a stronger writer.

What people actually love to hear is you talking about why you care, what you’re passionate about, the things that make you happy, whatever that might be. Not once have I experienced judgment or scrutiny for not looking to write the next Great American Novel, but I preempt my explanations in anticipation of that. It’s more pathetic, I think, than actually facing judgment. If someone does not want to hear about your dreams, they will not be privy to their fulfillment. That is their loss, not yours.

I can go on and on about this, prove with receipts what you can learn by understanding your merits and embracing your shortcomings, but the truth is, I’m still working toward practicing the certain, unadulterated self-confidence I preach about. I can be awful about taking compliments from other people, and even worse from myself, so I imagine it will take a while to talk myself up to other people without feeling the weight of unease. Even during interviews, when I enumerate my skills and qualities, I am simply performing. If I get the position, it isn’t me I have to thank, it is that facsimile of myself. The city and its endless opportunities can at once make you feel like a star and an imposter.

But I am the one who wrote those books. I am the one meeting those people, getting those internships, putting myself out there. I am the one experiencing the countless rejections, and I am the one who breaks down and picks myself back up to try again.

Whatever it is that you do, if it is something you are passionate about, the people worth your respect will respect your passion in kind. But more importantly, you will learn your own value once you set aside the impression that you must be uniquely expert in all that you do. Someone will be better than you, more reputable than you, and receive accolades you’ll take years to touch, but that’s no excuse to stop. 

The people you meet are not looking to rate you but to learn about you. So tell them, and leave nothing out.

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By Oshmi Ghosh

Oshmi Ghosh is a rising junior at NYU’s College of Arts and Sciences, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English with minors in Creative Writing, History, and Entertainment Business. You can usually find her appreciating the simple things in life: tea with milk and sugar, a good book, and/or intensely competitive board games.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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Crash Course Connections Ch. 3: Parenting Apart

June 25th, 2025

For many, college represents the first real step into adulthood. It’s a time of personal growth, exploration, and, inevitably, distance from the comfort of home. Whether you’re just a few miles down the road or hours away by plane, the transition is rarely easy. It’s not just about leaving your bed or your family meals behind; it’s about redefining your daily support system. One of the most unexpected challenges I faced wasn’t the academic load or even the social adjustment- it was recalibrating my relationship with my parents.

When I moved from Long Island to Manhattan for college, I initially thought I was too close to home. A simple train ride away, I figured I’d be able to maintain my independence while still dipping back into the familiarity of home whenever I wanted. I had spent that last summer completely surrounded by my family, and I was more than ready, or so I thought, to spread my wings. I welcomed the idea of a break, some distance, a fresh start.

My parents, Ed and Katina O’Connor circa 2000.

But reality hit hard. My dorm room felt cold and empty the first night. It wasn’t the physical distance that got to me; it was the emotional shift. I found myself calling home far more than I expected. I’d call to ask about little things like laundry or just to hear a familiar voice. It wasn’t my parents checking up on me; I was the one reaching out.And in those first few weeks, I went home three out of the four weekends. Looking back, I realize I was trying to straddle two worlds, not fully committing to either. As much as I wanted to build something new, I couldn’t let go of the old.

But this is where some advice I got during my senior year of high school came back to me. My guidance counselor, Mr. Spenato, told me something that really stuck:

“You will be homesick. Those first few months are hard. Many students go back home thinking they’re not ready, that they should take a gap year. And for a select few, maybe that’s true. But for most? They just need to push through. Call home as much as you want but, stay there. Give it a real shot.”

Graphic of girl feeling homesick while studying. Illustration by Ren Rader

So I stayed. I still called home often, sometimes daily, but I began putting more energy into life at college rather than life outside of it. I said yes to social events, joined clubs, explored the city, and slowly began building a routine. I carved out a space for myself in a place that initially felt so foreign.

It didn’t happen overnight. But little by little, what once felt strange started to feel normal. My relationship with my parents evolved, too. Instead of being part of every moment, they became the people I updated—my biggest fans from afar. As I grew more comfortable with my independence, our conversations became less about needing comfort and more about sharing my growth.

In hindsight, I see how important that shift was. You don’t lose your relationship with your parents in college;, you simply redefine it. They stop being your constant presence and become your foundation. And through that distance, I found a new appreciation for the bond we shared.

Family trip to Disney, right before I began my first semester at NYU.

College forces you to change both your environment and how you relate to the people who raised you. It’s a painful process at times, but it’s also essential. You come out of it more independent, more self-aware, and often, with a stronger relationship than before.

So if you’re in the thick of that first semester and wondering whether it gets better, know that it does. Push through the homesickness. Stay. Give it a real shot. And call home when you need to.


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By Logan O’Connor

Logan is a rising senior at NYU pursuing degrees in Journalism and Politics. She grew up on Long Island, but always dreamed of living in New York City. When she’s not in class or at her favorite local cafe, you can find her wandering the city (film camera in hand) or baking up a storm in her kitchen.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram andTikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for ournewsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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You’re Not Weak… You’re Human

June 25th, 2025

Mental health is one of those things you don’t always notice slipping, especially in a college setting. When I first entered college, I had never really believed in mental health. I believed that mental health was an excuse to not be present and to neglect your responsibilities. Throughout my time in college, I always had the mentally of pushing through the hardships and problems I have had and as opposed to blaming it on mental health.

In the beginning of my spring 2025 semester, I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Further into the semester, I was then diagnosed with depression, which is commonly linked with anxiety. These diagnoses made me realize I was not above mental health. I spent a lot of time trying to recognize the factors that played into my depression and anxiety so that I can control my feelings and emotions and be the best version of myself in college. 

At the end of the semester, I had realized that my mental health wasn’t just a personal issue, it was my overall full-body experience. It impacted my appetite, my energy, my physical movement. My lack of motivation led to skipped meals. My anxiety led to late-night scrolling and poor sleep. My depression made me cancel plans, which led to loneliness. The more I ignored my mental health, the worse my wellness and fitness became. 

Then, I learned that these diagnoses correlated with my scoliosis. I also felt very self-conscious of my scoliosis, as in making sure I was covering up my back with a sweater in hot weather or fixing my posture so no one would notice and make fun of what I call “my hump.” When I reflect, I understand that I continue to live in fear of people seeing my back and making fun of it. I also believe that the family and friends I kept around were not very supportive of my health, prompting me to be upset and push my anxiety with my back further.

When it comes to depression and anxiety, I have learned that I need to surround myself with people who are sympathetic to my health and make me feel better about myself and more supported. Going into my senior year of college, I have a few pointers that will help me manage my mental health. The first one is to not minimize it. Saying “I’m just tired” or  “I’m just having a rough day” when you’re actually overwhelmed doesn’t help. Being honest with yourself and your feelings are the most important. The second one is to establish a good routine. Even if it’s waking up, eating, going for a walk, doing one assignment, etc., it can create a sense of structure when everything feels chaotic. The third one is the most important one for me, and that is to stay connected. Isolation can make mental health worse. Reaching out to someone such as a friend, a resident assistant, or a counselor can help you feel seen and heard. The last one is to practice small moments of joy. Whether it’s music, sunlight, journaling, or your favorite snack, the small things you love can spark comfort or meaning.

Three college students relaxing. Image Credit: https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/the-importance-of-sleep-for-college-students

College is hard enough on its own. Adding mental health challenges can feel unbearable, but struggling doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human, and you’re allowed to pause, ask for help, and heal on your own timeline. Just know that you are not alone in feeling this way and it doesn’t make you broken. You’re doing your best and that’s more than enough.

Whether I’m painting on easels or coloring in my coloring book, art is a great way for me to relax and focus my mind. Bring a group of 8 and use code CAMPUSCLIPPER for $50 off!

By: Yamilia Ford

Yamilia Ford is a rising senior at Pace University with a major in business management and three minors in journalism, creative writing, and film studies. Her passion for writing allows her to inspire through her own creative lens, giving people the opportunity to relate to her.

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.

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Chapter 3: The Me in Me

June 24th, 2025
Me in my High School Graduation Ceremony
A picture of me in my High School Graduation

I still remember graduation day. Actually—pardon me—I still remember how I felt during my graduation. For most people, graduation is a milestone, a celebration. But for me, it was something else entirely. It was a nightmare.

I had everything I thought I wanted. My family stood beside me. My amazing friends cheered. I wore the dress I had dreamt about. I had the honor roll title I worked so hard for, and even the flower bouquet I pictured in my hands. But still… something inside me refused to feel whole.

That morning, I started getting ready. First, the sunscreen. I rubbed it into my skin, and with it, rubbed in the thought that echoed in my head—‘I’m so ugly.’ Tears fell before I even made it to step two. I wiped them quickly. Foundation next. I kept applying, but the more I tried to cover up my skin, the messier it got. One hand held the sponge, trying to perfect the look; the other clutched a tissue, soaked in my tears. 

Then came the concealer. I dotted it under my eyes. I started blending, along with the thoughts that always followed—“Why do I have dark circles?” More tears came, of course, ruining all the foundation I had just put on. I sat there in front of my mirror, staring at the mess on my face. 

I gave up on perfecting it. I moved to blush. A soft pink, something that usually makes me feel alive. I swirled it on my cheeks, and—guess what? Yes, more tears. 

Eyeliner was the worst of all. I don’t know why I even tried. My hands were shaking, my eyes still glossy from crying, and every line I drew ended up crooked. I kept wiping it off, trying again, messing it up, wiping again. At some point, I just stared at myself and thought, Why am I even doing this? Why am I even crying? 

The truth is, I wasn’t sad that high school was over. I was sad about myself. About the way I was. About the way I looked. About the way my personality felt too much or not enough, depending on the day. That day, I felt like a failure. It’s like I haven’t done enough for myself. I haven’t accomplished anything compared to the people surrounding me. I felt like people hated me. 

That was the first time I had ever cried like that—not because something went wrong, but because, for the first time, I saw how deep my insecurities ran. How unsure I was of myself, inside and out. The reason I’m bringing up that day is because… yesterday, I almost felt that way again. 

Funny thing—yesterday was supposed to be just another beautiful day. And it was. It was an amazing dream. I was on a cruise for hours, surrounded by the people I love dearly. But I guess self-doubt always sneaks in at the worst times, right when there’s nothing to doubt. 

The thing about self-doubt is, no matter how many compliments you receive, it never quite feels real. You struggle to believe you’re enough. That you’re okay. That you’re already whole, just as you are.

Now that I am in college, where it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison, I find myself constantly looking at how others present themselves—how effortlessly pretty or put-together they seem. It makes you wonder if you’re enough just the way you are. But I’m starting to realize that growth doesn’t always show up in the mirror. Sometimes it’s choosing not to pick yourself apart, smiling at your reflection even when you don’t believe it, or reminding yourself that beauty isn’t something you have to earn—it’s something you already carry.

I know I still struggle with that, but I am better than I was on my graduation day. It’s not easy, but there’s a quiet kind of power in choosing to trust myself—even just a little. And I’ve proven that to myself, in small ways: by still smiling with the people I love, by still taking pictures even when I don’t feel perfect, by trying to feel pretty—because everyone is pretty. We all deserve to see that in ourselves, not just in others.

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By Marzia Seemat

Marzia Seemat is a sophomore at NYU studying civil engineering and creative writing. She loves being close to nature, especially at the beach. Her favorite things include good food, morning tea, hour-long movies, and spending time with the people she loves.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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