Posts Tagged ‘college life’

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Fashion, Identity, and Reinventing Yourself

Monday, July 20th, 2026
Prada window display in New York City. Photo by Polina Makarova

Before moving to New York, I had always enjoyed fashion. I liked putting outfits together, experimenting with different combinations, and finding pieces that reflected my personality. It was something I genuinely enjoyed long before college, so when I moved to the city, that part of me did not disappear. If anything, New York encouraged it even more.

One of the things I noticed almost immediately was that nobody dressed the same. Walking to class every morning felt like watching hundreds of different stories pass by. Some people wore vintage clothing, others dressed almost entirely in black, while some looked like they had just stepped off a fashion runway. Every neighborhood had its own personality, and every person seemed comfortable expressing themselves in a different way.

Seeing that made me appreciate something I had never really thought about before. Fashion does not have to fit into one category. There is no single style that everyone should follow, especially in a city like New York. Instead of feeling pressure to dress like everyone else, I found myself becoming even more comfortable with my own style.

Over time, I also realized that personal style changes naturally as life changes. The clothes I wore during my first semester are different from what I wear now. Not because I was trying to become someone else, but because my interests have grown along with me. Sometimes I prefer simple outfits that feel comfortable during long days on campus. Other times I enjoy putting together something more creative when I have the time. My wardrobe has changed, just as I have changed throughout college.

One thing I enjoy most about fashion is that it allows people to express themselves without saying anything at all. You can often notice little details that reflect someone’s personality—a favorite color, a unique accessory, or a style they wear consistently. It reminds me that everyone has their own story, even if we never hear it.

Living in New York has also made me much more open-minded. I have seen people confidently wear things that I probably never would have imagined before moving here. Instead of thinking something looks unusual, I have learned to appreciate the creativity behind it. Fashion became less about following trends and more about celebrating individuality.

College itself is a time when many people discover new interests, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience things they never expected. I think personal style naturally becomes part of that journey. It grows alongside your experiences without you even realizing it. Looking back, I don’t think I reinvented myself after moving to New York. Instead, I became more comfortable showing the person I had always been.

One of my favorite parts of living in the city is simply observing people as I walk through neighborhoods like SoHo or around campus. Fashion has become part of what makes New York feel alive. Every outfit tells a different story, and every person adds something unique to the streets around them. That diversity reminds me that there is no right or wrong way to express yourself.

Looking back, I am grateful that I never felt like I had to completely change who I was after moving here. New York did not give me a new identity—it gave me the confidence to embrace the one I already had. Fashion remained something I loved, but it also became a reminder that the most authentic style is the one that feels natural to you.

Takeaway

Moving to a new city does not mean leaving your identity behind. College is a time of growth, and your interests and personal style will naturally evolve with new experiences. Instead of trying to fit into someone else’s idea of who you should be, allow yourself to grow while staying true to the things that already make you who you are.

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By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English Literature major at Pace University and a Publishing Intern at Campus Clipper. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, wellness, fashion, and personal growth while navigating college life 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 Instagramand 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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Balancing Wellness and College Stress

Monday, July 13th, 2026
Photo by Polina Makarova. Lower Manhattan, New York City.

When I first started college in New York, I thought being productive meant staying busy all the time. If I wasn’t studying, working on assignments, applying for internships, or planning something for the future, I felt like I wasn’t doing enough. Living in New York only made that feeling stronger. The city moves quickly, and it often feels like everyone around you is constantly working toward something.

At first, I tried to keep up with that pace. I would spend long hours studying, saying yes to every opportunity, and putting pressure on myself to make the most of every single day. While I enjoyed being involved, I slowly realized that constantly staying busy was also leaving me mentally exhausted. There were days when I felt guilty for taking a break, even if I really needed one.

One thing college has taught me is that being busy and being productive are not always the same thing.

I noticed that whenever I ignored my own well-being, everything else became harder too. I had trouble concentrating, small tasks felt overwhelming, and I enjoyed my classes much less than I normally would. At first, I thought the solution was simply to work harder, but eventually I realized that what I actually needed was balance.

For me, balance didn’t come from creating the perfect schedule or following a strict routine. Instead, it came from paying attention to small habits that made each day feel more manageable. Some mornings, that meant taking my time while getting ready instead of rushing out the door. Other days, it meant going for a walk through the city after class before sitting back down to study. Even stopping to grab coffee with a friend could completely change my mood after a stressful day.

Living in New York also reminded me that there is always something happening. It is easy to feel like you should always be doing more because there is another event, another opportunity, or another place to explore. Eventually, I learned that it is okay not to do everything. Sometimes the best decision is staying in, getting enough sleep, and allowing yourself to recharge without feeling guilty.

Another thing that helped me was learning to separate my self-worth from my productivity. It is easy to believe that your value depends on your grades, internships, or accomplishments. I felt that pressure too, especially during busy parts of the semester. Over time, however, I realized that success also includes taking care of yourself. Rest is not something you earn after finishing everything on your to-do list. It is something you need in order to do your best.

One habit that made a bigger difference than I expected was simply giving myself small breaks throughout the day. Instead of spending hours staring at my computer, I learned to step away for a few minutes, listen to music, call my family, or walk outside. Those short moments helped me return with a clearer mind and much more energy.

I also realized that everyone’s version of balance looks different. Some people enjoy planning every hour of their day, while others prefer a more flexible routine. What works for one student may not work for someone else. Instead of comparing my habits to other people’s, I started paying attention to what actually helped me feel healthy, motivated, and happy.

Looking back now, I still have stressful weeks. Midterms, deadlines, and internship applications can still feel overwhelming at times. The difference is that I no longer believe I have to sacrifice my well-being in order to succeed. Taking care of myself has become part of being successful, not something separate from it.

College is a time of growth, but growth is difficult when you are constantly running on empty. Learning to slow down every once in a while has made me a better student, a better friend, and a happier person overall.

Takeaway

College can be busy, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming. While it is important to work hard and pursue your goals, it is just as important to take care of yourself along the way. Small habits like taking breaks, getting enough rest, spending time with friends, and creating routines that work for you can make a big difference. Finding balance does not mean doing less—it means giving yourself the support you need to keep moving forward.

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By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English Literature major at Pace University and a Publishing Intern at Campus Clipper. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, wellness, fashion, and personal growth while navigating college life 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 Instagramand 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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Loneliness, Friendship, and Trying to Belong

Monday, July 6th, 2026
Photo by Polina Makarova. Central Park, New York City.

Before moving to New York, I thought college would mostly be about classes, assignments, internships, and preparing for my future career. While those things have certainly become a huge part of my life, one thing surprised me the most—the friendships I built along the way.

Starting college in a different country felt intimidating. I wondered if it would be difficult to connect with people from completely different backgrounds. Luckily, I met amazing friends much sooner than I expected. Looking back, I think they became one of the biggest reasons why New York gradually started feeling like home.

One thing I love about college is that everyone arrives with a different story. Some students grew up only a few miles away from campus, while others, like me, moved across the world. We all have different cultures, experiences, and goals, yet somehow we end up sitting in the same classrooms, working on the same projects, and helping each other through stressful weeks.

Some of my favorite college memories have nothing to do with grades or exams.

Instead, I think about walking through SoHo after class, trying new cafés together, spending hours studying before finals, or taking the subway somewhere without a real plan just to explore another part of the city. Those are the moments I remember the most.

Friendships also made stressful moments feel much easier. College can become overwhelming very quickly. Between assignments, exams, internships, and trying to balance everything else, it is easy to feel exhausted. Having friends to study with, talk to, or simply laugh with after a long day reminded me that I was never dealing with everything alone.

One thing that surprised me was how naturally friendships developed. Sometimes they started with something as simple as asking a classmate about homework or sitting next to someone during class. Other times, they grew through group projects, late-night study sessions, or spontaneous plans after lectures. Looking back, none of those moments seemed important at the time, but together they built meaningful friendships.

Moving to another country also taught me that friendship does not depend on speaking the same first language or growing up in the same place. Kindness, curiosity, and simply being open to meeting new people matter much more. Some of the people I have become closest to have completely different backgrounds than mine, and I think that has made my college experience even more meaningful.

Another lesson I learned is that belonging is not something that happens overnight. Even if you make friends quickly, feeling completely comfortable in a new place takes time. Little by little, New York became filled with familiar places connected to memories instead of uncertainty. Certain cafés remind me of study sessions before exams. Favorite restaurants remind me of celebrations after finishing difficult semesters. Parks and neighborhoods remind me of conversations that lasted for hours. Those memories slowly transformed the city into somewhere that feels like home.

Looking back now, I realize that college is not only about earning a degree. It is also about the people you meet along the way. The friendships you build often become just as valuable as everything you learn inside the classroom. They encourage you during difficult moments, celebrate your successes, and remind you that you do not have to experience college alone.

As graduation gets a little closer each year, I know I probably will not remember every lecture or every assignment. What I will remember are the conversations after class, the late-night study sessions, the spontaneous trips around New York, and the people who became part of my journey.

Takeaway

College is about much more than academics. The friendships you build can make unfamiliar places feel like home and difficult moments feel much easier. Being open to meeting new people, spending time together, and creating shared memories may become one of the most valuable parts of your entire college experience.

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By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English and Literature major at Pace University with a minor in Journalism and Digital Storytelling. She enjoys writing about college life, personal growth, wellness, and finding confidence while studying abroad.

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 Instagramand 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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Mental Health Behind the “Perfect” Image

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026
Photo by Polina Makarova. Arriving in New York City.

One of the biggest things I have learned during college is that people are often struggling with things you cannot see. Looking around campus, it can seem like everyone has their life together. Students are balancing classes, internships, clubs, social events, and future plans. Social media makes it look even more convincing. People post their achievements, exciting experiences, and happy moments, creating the impression that everything is going perfectly.

For a long time, I believed I was the only one feeling overwhelmed.

When I first moved from Russia to the United States, I put a lot of pressure on myself. I wanted to do well academically, make friends, adapt to a new culture, and build a life in New York City. At the same time, I was dealing with homesickness, uncertainty, and the emotional challenges that come with starting over in a completely new environment.

There were days when everything felt exciting. I was exploring the city, meeting new people, and experiencing things I had dreamed about for years. But there were also days when I felt lonely, anxious, and unsure of myself. What made it difficult was that I often felt like everyone else was adjusting better than I was.

Social media played a big role in that feeling.

Whenever I opened Instagram, it seemed like everyone was having the perfect college experience. People posted photos with large groups of friends, exciting internships, beautiful apartments, and busy social lives. Meanwhile, I was often sitting in my dorm room missing home or worrying about classes. It became easy to compare my reality to other people’s highlight reels.

Over time, I realized that social media only shows a small part of someone’s life. We see the internship announcement but not the rejected applications. We see the smiling group photo but not the loneliness that may exist behind it. We see achievements, but we rarely see the stress, anxiety, or self-doubt that often come before them.

The more people I got to know, the more I realized that everyone is dealing with challenges of their own.

Some students struggled with anxiety. Others felt pressure from family expectations. Some worried about finances, relationships, or their future careers. Even the people who appeared the most confident often had insecurities that nobody else knew about. Many of us were experiencing similar feelings but keeping them to ourselves.

College can sometimes create unrealistic expectations. There is often pressure to be productive all the time. It can feel like you should always be studying, networking, exercising, socializing, and planning for your future. While ambition can be a good thing, constantly feeling like you need to do more can quickly become exhausting.

Eventually, I learned that taking care of my mental health was just as important as achieving academic success.

For me, that meant creating small routines that helped me feel more balanced. Going for walks around New York City, spending time with friends, focusing on hobbies, limiting social media when it became overwhelming, and allowing myself time to rest all made a difference. These habits did not solve every problem, but they helped me manage stress in a healthier way.

I also learned that it is okay to ask for support. During difficult moments, talking to family members, friends, professors, or other people I trusted helped me feel less alone. Sometimes simply sharing what you are going through can make a situation feel much more manageable.

Looking back now, I wish I had spent less time comparing myself to other people. Everyone’s journey looks different, especially in college. Some people adjust quickly, while others need more time. Some people seem confident on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside. The truth is that nobody has everything figured out.

One of the most important lessons I learned is that mental health deserves the same attention as physical health. Taking care of yourself is not a sign of weakness or laziness. It is a necessary part of growth. College is not only about academic achievements and future careers. It is also about learning how to take care of yourself while navigating change, uncertainty, and personal growth.

Takeaway

Social media and college culture can sometimes create unrealistic expectations and make it seem like everyone else has life figured out. In reality, many students experience stress, anxiety, loneliness, and self-doubt. Prioritizing mental health, creating healthy routines, and remembering that nobody is perfect can make the college experience healthier, more balanced, and more enjoyable.

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By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English Literature major at Pace University and a Publishing Intern at Campus Clipper. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, wellness, fashion, and personal growth while navigating college life 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 Instagramand 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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Resilience in Routine

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
Photo by Alyssa Hong. Here I am sitting in a field of overly bloomed tulips at the Queens Botanical Garden.

One of the most essential parts of college is finding ways to continue a healthy lifestyle despite having copious amounts of free will. For this, I suggest enrolling in classes with friends for things like yoga, pilates, or anything really. 

What started out as Thursday evening classes for yoga simply began as a question: 

“Do you want to try Fitbear classes with me?”

Monica, my best friend, asked me this during our first year in college after the first semester. Still timid, my voice appeared firm in accepting her offer but the tremble of my body could not shake this anxious moment. I wondered if the class would paint us as newbies and that we would be made fun of – superficial concerns which made no sense looking back because everyone starts somewhere. 

Our first class had me looking over my shoulder constantly. I put on my leggings for the first time since COVID era, which had me doing Chloe Ting workouts in my bedroom. Highschool kept me so preoccupied I only had time for dance club so I had wildly let myself go. I went down the elevator to the first floor where the water station was and filled my Awola full of water since I was not sure how hard I would be sweating for “vinyasa” yoga. 

I did not even know what “vinyasa” meant. 

I knocked on Monica’s door since we lived in the same small hallway; we were on our way. Geared with her yoga mat, leggings, and water bottle, Monica was prepared for the next hour of downward facing dogs later. As we rode the elevator down, my face kept making the same grin of nervousness. My hands shook like no other. Soon, I found myself in the basement of the main campus building for our class with my hand gripping the handle of the door. As I opened it, the world began to shine in on me. 

Starting by reaching down towards our feet, I felt the release of all my stresses of homesickness to future career anxieties diminish. Halfway lift — holding my breath, I stared at my posture in the mirror, diligently focusing on my body and how it felt. Then down into a down-dog while bending our knees side-by-side. Stretching my body through every pose was my revenge on this fast-moving world. 

With Monica keeping me accountable, I learned the art of yoga: finding stillness and intention. Each pose should be made with intent and slow movement rather than rushing through. I thought about engaging my core, where my hands were, and finally how my body felt. The tension housed within my joints transpired as I held my intention from the beginning of the class to the very end. 

After my very first class, Monica and I continued these classes even adding two a week to our schedules if time permitted. That’s how we ended up trying a Zumba class on a random given Wednesday. 

Without her pushing me out of my own comfort (my mind), I would have never found the art of truly slowing down in yoga. We still go to these classes only now they are Friday morning classes at 9 AM instead. We always find time within our schedules and are always seeking to learn something new in our fitness journeys like how to perform frog pose or a proper chaturanga. 

I have also learned so much about Monica from this routine. She prefers cardio whereas I hate cardio entirely. I found this out after one of our conversations post-class (Total Sculpt) which was filled with cardio. 

“I like it because you can feel it.”

“I hate it for that exact reason.”

She also used to train mainly using cardio for rowing in Highschool and still does for when she scuba dives in the summer. Whereas, I only did cardio for dance in Middle School which I still hated. 

Nevertheless, yoga, or more generally, fitness classes have become our routine to resist anything college throws our way. It is not only a way to connect with others, but a chance to learn something new about them and yourself. 

Working out can be a helpful activity for the mind and soul alongside the body. Use this coupon to start your fitness training package with Nimble Fitness!

By Alyssa Hong

Alyssa Hong is a rising Junior at Barnard College, studying Political Science with a minor in English. As a first-generation, low-income student, she writes about moving across the country for college and its adjustments. She utilizes entertainment, wellness/health/food, and fashion/beauty as methods to making new connections with others whilst always learning.

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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Confidence and Self Image in College

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026
Photo by Polina Makarova. A view from a study space in New York City.


Back then, beginning my time at university, I believed self-assurance came naturally – or not at all. Certain classmates appeared calm in any setting, as if belonging without effort. Their voices stayed steady during discussions; friendships formed around them like weather patterns. Watching closely, one might guess doubt never crossed their minds.

Spending more time in college slowly showed me how common confidence issues really are. What stands out is not the struggle itself, but how quietly it’s carried. Beneath cheerful faces, online updates, and packed calendars, doubt often lingers. Comparisons creep in. Pressure builds. Most keep it hidden. A few admit it. Many feel alone while surrounded by others.

Back in those days, living abroad made everything feel heavier. Moving across borders meant facing unfamiliar ways of life, classrooms that worked differently, routines without comfort. At times, doubt crept in – did I really fit here? Conversations carried hidden risks; one misstep could mark me as an outsider. Confidence rarely matched the ease others showed. During that time, I often felt uncertain about where I belonged.

Looking at social media made things worse. Everyone appeared to be living an ideal college life. Photos showed big circles of friends, impressive internships, top scores – effortless wins on display. My reality never matched those edited snapshots others chose to share.

Slowly, it became clear – measuring myself against others drained my self-assurance quickly. Whenever attention shifted to peers, my achievements felt smaller somehow. Everyone comes to college with different experiences, backgrounds, and challenges. People have different goals and are on different paths. Matching timelines across such distinct lives brings little value most times.

Success often came, not from comparison, butyet from noticing little wins. A strong mark on homework sometimes counted. At other moments, it was saying a few words during discussion, starting a conversation with a stranger, or managing stress after a long stretch of work. Slowly, these steps added up. Confidence grew without force.

One experience that helped build my confidence was getting involved outside of the classroom. At first, I often hesitated to apply for opportunities because I worried that I was not experienced enough or that someone else would be more qualified. Eventually, I realized that many students feel the same way. Applying for internships, joining new projects, and putting myself in unfamiliar situations helped me become more confident over time. Every opportunity taught me something new and reminded me that growth often happens when you are willing to step outside of your comfort zone.

Turns out, being sure of yourself does not mean having every detail locked down. Earlier, I believed certainty required full control – everything sorted ahead of time. College shifted that view: complete understanding isn’t what drives confidence. Even the students who seem the most confident are still learning, growing, and making mistakes like everyone else.

Comfort in clothes sometimes made speaking up easier. Because I liked what I wore, joining discussions felt less difficult. Though outfits do not build confidence by themselves, they support feeling like your true self. How you dress might influence how freely you show who you are.

One thing stands out most: doing things builds belief in yourself. Each attempt at something unfamiliar adds to it. Stepping into unknown territory helps it grow. Trying what feels difficult shapes it further. This growth does not arrive overnight. Small actions pile up over time. Confidence grows when you continue trying new things and challenging yourself.

Now and then, uncertainty creeps in, even today. Nearly everyone experiences this at times. Yet what has shifted is how I interpret these feelings – not as setbacks, but as signs of change. College is not only about earning a degree. It is also about learning more about yourself and becoming comfortable with who you are.

Takeaway

Confidence in college does not come from being perfect or having everything figured out. It develops through experience, personal growth, and learning to stop comparing yourself to others. Everyone struggles with self-doubt at times, but confidence grows when you focus on your own journey rather than someone else’s.

Take a break from studying and recharge with a cup of coffee at Absolute Coffee. Sometimes even a small pause can help you reset and return with a clearer mind.

By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English and Literature major at Pace University with a minor in Journalism and Digital Storytelling. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, identity, fashion, wellness, and adapting to life in a new country.

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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Fashion as Personal Expression

Tuesday, June 9th, 2026

Photo by Polina Makarova. A street view in SoHo, one of New York City’s most fashion-focused neighborhoods.

Surprisingly, when people think about fashion, they usually think about trends, brands, or appearances. While fashion can certainly be those things, my relationship with it became something much more personal after moving to the United States. During a time when almost everything in my life felt unfamiliar, fashion became one of the few things that helped me stay connected to myself. Instead of simply following trends, what I wore became a reflection of who I was becoming.

Moving to a new country can make you question many parts of your identity. Suddenly, you are surrounded by different people, different social expectations, and a completely different environment. College can make this feeling even stronger because everyone seems to be figuring out who they are at the same time. While that can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming.

When I first arrived in New York, there were days when I felt invisible. Adjusting to a different way of life took time, and fitting in did not happen overnight. Making friends was not always easy, and homesickness stayed with me longer than I expected. Some days I felt confident, while other days I felt uncertain about where I belonged. One thing I noticed, however, was that when I put thought into what I wore, I carried myself differently. It was never about impressing other people. It was about feeling more like myself.

During that period, many things felt outside of my control. I could not instantly adapt to a new culture. I could not make homesickness disappear overnight. I could not magically become comfortable in every social situation. But every morning, I could choose how I wanted to present myself. That small decision gave me a sense of confidence during a time when everything else felt uncertain.

Fashion became another form of self-expression. Some people express themselves through art, music, or writing. For me, clothing became a way to communicate parts of my personality that I sometimes struggled to put into words. Certain outfits made me feel more confident. Others reflected my mood or mindset. Sometimes even a simple accessory could make me feel more confident throughout the day. Different outfits reflected different moods and helped me express how I was feeling.

Over time, expressing myself through fashion became more natural and helped me feel more comfortable in my own skin. One of the things I love most about New York City is how people express themselves through fashion. Walking through the city, you see people expressing themselves in countless ways. Some people dress boldly and creatively, while others prefer a simpler style. There is no single “right” way to present yourself. Seeing that freedom made me more comfortable embracing my own style.

College can sometimes create pressure to fit in. Social media often makes that pressure even stronger. It is easy to compare yourself to carefully curated photos and feel like everyone else has everything figured out. Over time, I realized that confidence comes from being comfortable with yourself rather than trying to be like everyone else. The people who seemed most confident were often the people who were simply comfortable being themselves.

One of the most important things fashion taught me is that self-expression does not have to be expensive. Confidence is not determined by designer brands or the amount of money you spend on clothes. Some of my favorite outfits have been simple combinations of pieces that make me feel comfortable and authentic. Personal style feels most meaningful when it reflects who you are rather than trying to be perfect.

As time went on, fashion also became connected to my overall wellness. Of course, clothing cannot solve every problem, but taking the time to express yourself can have a positive impact on your confidence and mindset. On days when I put effort into getting ready, I often felt more productive, motivated, and positive. It was a small act of self-care that helped me start the day feeling more confident.

Looking back, fashion helped me navigate one of the biggest transitions of my life. It gave me confidence during uncertain moments and allowed me to express parts of my identity that I was still discovering. Even when so much around me was changing, fashion helped me stay connected to who I was. Most importantly, it reminded me that self-expression is not about impressing other people. It is about feeling comfortable enough to be yourself.

Takeaway

Fashion is often viewed as something external, but it can also be a powerful form of self-expression. During times of change and uncertainty, personal style can help people feel more confident, authentic, and connected to themselves. Sometimes the smallest forms of self-expression can make the biggest difference.

Use this student discount at Amorino and enjoy a sweet treat while exploring New York City. Sometimes a small break can be the perfect form of self-care during a busy semester.

By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English and Literature major at Pace University with a minor in Journalism and Digital Storytelling. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, identity, fashion, wellness, and adapting to life in a new country.

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 Instagramand 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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Starting Over in a New Country

Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026
Photo by Polina Makarova

Excitement fills the air when people talk about moving to another country, but underneath it can also feel stressful and lonely. When I moved from Russia to the U.S., I carried more than just luggage with me. I expected the hardest part to be the language or learning how to navigate a new city, but honestly, the hardest part was adjusting to a completely unfamiliar environment while also trying to figure out who I was becoming. That question stayed in my mind constantly.

At first, nothing felt completely comfortable. Grocery stores, classes, conversations, public transportation – even small everyday things felt overwhelming because I was always trying to adjust to a different rhythm. Some days I felt excited and confident, and other days I felt completely out of place. I think a lot of people who move to a new country experience this feeling, even if they do not always talk about it openly.

College life already comes with pressure, and adapting to a different culture at the same time can make it even harder mentally and emotionally. There is pressure to succeed academically, make friends, look confident, and act like everything is fine even when it is not. Social media also makes it easy to compare yourself to other students who seem completely settled and happy. Meanwhile, homesickness, anxiety, loneliness, and emotional stress quietly build up in the background. Even when surrounded by people, it is possible to still feel disconnected and far away from home.

Over time, I realized that small things could actually make a big difference emotionally. Fashion became one of those things for me. When everything around me felt unfamiliar, putting together an outfit that made me feel comfortable and confident could genuinely improve my mood. It may sound simple, but self-expression can really affect the way you feel mentally and emotionally.

For me, fashion was never really about impressing other people. It became a way to reconnect with

myself during a period where everything felt uncertain. Moving to a new place can make you feel like you are rebuilding your identity from the beginning. College already feels like a major life transition, but moving countries at the same time makes that feeling even stronger. You begin thinking more deeply about where you belong, how you want people to see you, and who you want to become.

I also learned that wellness is not always about perfect routines or always feeling motivated. Sometimes wellness simply means giving yourself time to adjust. Starting over can feel emotionally exhausting, and I think many students put pressure on themselves to adapt too quickly. Real growth takes time.

Little by little, I started creating routines that made me feel more grounded. Walking through New York City, focusing on school, building small self-care habits, spending time with supportive people, and expressing myself more confidently all helped me emotionally. I still experience stressful moments, but I’ve realized that moving to a new country does not mean losing who you are. It means learning how to grow while still staying connected to yourself.

Looking back now, moving to another country changed me in both difficult and positive ways. It made me more independent, emotionally aware, and understanding of myself. Even though the adjustment process was difficult, it taught me that confidence does not come from being perfect or fitting in immediately. Sometimes confidence simply comes from continuing to move forward even when everything around you feels unfamiliar.

Takeaway

Moving to a new country during college can feel emotionally overwhelming and isolating at times. Adjusting takes time, and it is important not to compare your journey to other people’s experiences. Small routines, supportive people, self-expression, and self-care can make a huge difference when it comes to mental health and confidence during major life changes.

Taking care of yourself is important, especially during stressful times. Use this student discount at Baya Bar and enjoy a healthy break while exploring New York City.

By Polina Makarova

Polina Makarova is an English and Literature major at Pace University with a minor in Journalism and Digital Storytelling. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, identity, fashion, wellness, and adapting to life in a new country.

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 Instagramand 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. 9: Saying Goodbye

Thursday, August 14th, 2025

Part of me wishes college could last forever. The dorm sleepovers, late-night library hang-outs and chaotic coffee runs. Even the lecture halls hold a kind of charm. There’s a certain beauty to the rhythm of university life. Beyond aesthetics, it’s the final step before entering the adult world. It’s the last time you and your friends share the same calendar, the same milestones, the same breaks and goalposts.

But eventually, everything ends. And with that comes goodbye.

Friends tossing caps after graduating college. Credit: https://images

It’s not just a farewell to the school, professors and classes. You’re also saying goodbye to your friends. Some are close. Others are what I’d call “friends of convenience”. That may sound harsh, but it’s honest. These are people you see every day because your schedules align. You bond through routine, not necessarily through deep connection. And once the routine ends, so often does the friendship.

That doesn’t make those friendships less real, and this isn’t unique to college. You’ve had these kinds of relationships in high school, at jobs, summer camps and internships. You will continue to have these relationships throughout your life. Even when built around convenience, those friendships can be meaningful. They can brighten your day, get you through tough mornings or give you a reason to show up just to sit beside someone in class.

When those connections start to fade, it doesn’t mean they weren’t valuable. Sometimes life simply doesn’t allow space to maintain every relationship. And that’s okay.

Even the friendships you cherish most will shift. The closeness you feel while living in the same dorm, eating together every day and sharing every stress is hard to sustain. Eventually, you drift. Maybe not right away. Maybe you’ll live together after graduation or try to keep the same rhythm. But new jobs, routines and people will start to fill your time. The tight-knit group you once built becomes a web of separate paths. There might still be overlap, but there will also be space.

So this goodbye is just the end of a chapter. The story continues, you’re simply turning the page.

Winnie the Poo “Saying Goodbye” graphic. Credit: https://images.app

In a world where we’re all hyperconnected, physical distance isn’t the challenge it used to be. You can still meet up, plan reunions, send a message when someone crosses your mind. What you’re really saying goodbye to is the ease of it all. The built-in structure that made friendship simple. Letting go of that doesn’t mean losing the people entirely. It just means accepting change.

As I start my senior year, I’m writing this as both reflection and preparation. Part of me wants time to stop, to stay in this space a little longer. But most of me is ready for what’s next. Change is hard, but it’s also what makes life beautiful. It’s what gives this chapter meaning.

So here’s to this final year. I’m choosing to embrace it fully. To give myself grace when I mess up. To appreciate the ease while it’s still here.

Thanks for reading, and goodbye!

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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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Balancing it All: Your City, Your Pace

Tuesday, August 5th, 2025

Living in New York City as a student can feel like being swept into a current that never slows down. There’s always something happening, somewhere to be, or something new to try. While it is exciting that the city is constantly full of endless opportunities, it can also be overwhelming. 

When I first moved here almost four years ago, I felt immense pressure to do everything. I needed to try new experiences. I needed to make new friends. And I needed to discover new versions of myself. That is what I thought college was all about.

However, I’ve learned that the key to thriving as a student in the city isn’t about chasing every opportunity. It’s about being intentional with your time, protecting your peace, and remembering that only you get to decide what your version of “making the most of it” looks like.

Maybe that means saying yes to a late-night comedy show, even when you’re exhausted, just to laugh so hard you forget why you were stressed in the first place. Or waking up early to run along the East River, where the quiet water and morning light make the city feel like it’s holding its breath just for you. Maybe it means carving out time for fitness, not to chase some goal, but because puppy yoga makes you laugh when a tiny dog climbs on your mat, or because hiking through The Ramble feels like disappearing into another world where no one can email you.

Balance does not always mean equal parts, either. Some weeks might be full of adventure, like constantly exploring different villages in the city, trying new restaurants, and making new friends. Other weekends may be filled with class readings, FaceTiming family because you are homesick, or finally doing your giant load of laundry. Both are a part of being a student in New York. 

The city is yours for the taking!

You don’t have to put everything on your plate at once. It is okay to not go out every weekend. Maybe your comfort zone is a cozy bookstore, a quiet café, or the corner of the park where you feel miles away from the city’s chaos. That can be just as valuable. At times it is hard to swallow sometimes, but you do not always have to be “doing.” You are still growing and experiencing. Even in the pauses. 

So as you navigate your own path in this city, give yourself permission to go at your own pace. Let New York’s energy inspire you, but don’t let it pressure you. You don’t need to do everything, just the things that feel right for you. Learn to say no when your body or your mind needs rest. Learn to say yes when something excites you or challenges you in a good way. And most importantly, learn to listen to yourself.

This city will teach you a lot about people, art, culture, and ambition. But maybe the most important thing it will teach you is this: You don’t have to rush to belong here. You already do. Take a deep breath, find your rhythm, and move forward with one step at a time. This is your city, so live it in your way.

Get 10% off at this NYU student staple spot!

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 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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