Posts Tagged ‘Friendship’

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Wandering Bookstores

Tuesday, July 14th, 2026
Photo by Alyssa Hong. This picture is of the used/rare book store in the Upper West Side!

Hands brushing the pages of books, I am perusing the discounted books on the cart outside the store one by one. Sunshine lights up the pages, wilting the older novels while guiding my eyes towards my next adventure. Thin edges are pinched by my fingers gliding to the next page. Bookstores are my favorite venture. 

We are in Soho — Monica and I had a great Thai lunch at Fish Cheeks, our favorite restaurant, and soon wandered the streets with our stomachs filled. As we exit Bond Street, we wander towards Prince Street to hit our most favorite bookstore: McNally Jackson. Opening the heavy glass door, our eyes flash to rows filled with books of many genres and stories. I look at her, she looks at me, and we lose each other in an instant. 

In the very front are the most popular books, I begin my quest here. Names I have heard before, some I have not, pique my interest in art, literature, philosophies, etc. Stories of immigrants hold my sight longer than the rest. Most of all, my horrible habit from childhood continues to dictate my adulthood: judging books by their cover. If the cover is not what I deem pretty, I will not even think about picking it up. Even in my college life, I have perpetuated this routine. So while I walk towards the center aisle of popular books looking for the aesthetically pleasing covers, Monica is browsing all the economics, math, and psychology books.

Our personalities and interests take form in our choices very clearly. She is highly analytical whereas I am very hypothetical. I have learned her focus on consumers, business markets, and all the in-betweens. She picks up books about game theory, talks about her future in finance, and shows up to all the networking events. I have learned to understand how she thinks. She uses her calculator to check prices and find the best deals. Her choices in which books she chooses shows it all. While these genres or types of books are often the ones I see her sitting down to read, sometimes she partakes in mystery. Problem solving is like second-nature to her. 

Finding the bench in the cooking section, Monica is, yet again, reading a consumer psychology book. I am holding a James Baldwin book, debating on my purchase. The lights are hitting her silhouette like a perfect picture — legs crossed, head planted in the book, and eyes following each line. With each step towards her, my mind cannot decide to interrupt her thinking or to let her carry on while I make another round throughout the store. Ultimately, I sat down next to her and opened the book to start reading. 

Here we are reading in McNally’s. It is a perfect day. Our stomachs full of delicious food to keep us fueled for the next day, the sky so clear, and us diving into our literature choices. Unbeknownst to us, three hours go by. Our ignorance to the time is blissful. We forget for a couple hours of the concerns that bother us back to reality. We travel into an alternate fictional reality that captures us for the day. 

Only when the sun begins to set do we realize how we lost track of time. Monica is tapping my book, only enough to gain my attention and not enough to startle me. Our eyes met; I know our time has come. Closing our books, I inquire about her book. 

“Is it any good? Are you gonna buy it?” 

“Yeah, it’s about consumer psychology. It tells me a lot about what people think when they are purchasing things and how it reflects in the markets.” 

Most of the time it is not as simple as this, but every time I learn something new from her about her interests. Sometimes I have no clue what she is talking about despite her dumbed down explanation. Never do I not learn something and connect with her in a new topic. 

If you ever need a stroll, wander in a bookstore — your next venture awaits you. Most of all, take a friend because you will have something to connect about and learn more about. You can learn so much about a person by discussing the type of literature they read or don’t read.

Wandering around always includes time for sweet treats. Use this discount to grab some thin cookies for your next adventure!

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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Posted in Friendship, onBooks, onCollege, onFun, onValues, Out On The Town, Uniqueness in NYC | No Comments »

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.

Fresh, healthy, and perfect for students!
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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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Eyeliner, Mascara, and Everything in Between

Monday, July 6th, 2026

The women’s college experience is defined by the expressive fashion, make-up, and hair that displays each girl’s personality. On campus, a European or Tuscan style uniquely signifies an east coast aesthetic that can only be attained by the Californian girls who have dreamed their whole lives of living in the big New York City. Others carry an alternative taste with heavy black eyeliner, vibrant hair colors, and many piercings to outwardly show their political philosophies. This is one thing that women all relate to: aesthetics. 

In the H-Mart by Columbia University is H-Art and near that is Teso-Life which are stores that cater to and carry primarily Asian brands for the high population of international Asian students at the institution. Recollecting a cloudy day, Ky and I ran out of makeup that we usually use. I had actually been on the lookout for a mascara strong enough to hold my stubborn lashes up all day long — something to withstand a thunderstorm. Browsing through the selection, I inquire about the mascara that Ky uses since she too knows the struggle of having pin-straight Asian lashes. 

“What do you use?” “I use the Clio one.” This is a Korean brand I was familiar with due to my extensive research late last night where I should have been sleeping. Many other girls raved about it on TikTok but I have seen it on Ky’s counter, in my peers’ makeup pouches, and in catalogs of HerCampus magazine of my school. This mascara is a connection for many of the Asian girls on our campus because we all have the similar struggle of finding just the right mascara to hold our impossible eyelashes up. 

Our network starts with, “What lippie is that? What’s your lip combo? What lash clusters are those?” 

Very often you can imagine someone’s personality through their makeup. Full glam beats signify people who take the time to paint the picture of who they are in the dimmest hours of the early morning. Messy mascara and smudgy eyeliner might signal a late start to the day or a message that says, “Do not talk to me. I do not want to talk.”  The choice of makeup reflects who we are to each other, but it also opens the door to connecting about our decisions. 

Inquiries into certain products or compliments in passing initiate conversations which lead to friendship. Helping others with their makeup choices is a universal form for connection that is not exclusive to women but most evident in women-filled spaces. Admiration for fun colors, doing each others’ makeup, and getting ready together can be intimate. You get to know a person’s soul in the accentuation of their eyes, lips, or nose. Connecting in the love of getting ready makes the process of makeup all that much more fun when in a room full of others who do the same but can also help you with unfamiliar techniques. 

I have often helped with eyeliner, lashes, or hair (my favorite activity). In the first few weeks of knowing my suitemates, I had one of them knock on my door quite suddenly. As an introvert, a pounding on my door was the last thing I was expecting but to my surprise my suitemate Pauline wanted to ask for my help with her eyeliner. I happily agreed since I enjoy doing other people’s makeup. This moment also allowed me to gain her trust and connect better with her by asking what type of style she was going for or if she liked how it turned out. She simply smiled back at me and said, “I knew you were the perfect person to ask!” Although I gladly helped her, I was overjoyed in feeling somewhat closer to someone I was still getting to know. 

In this way, makeup can be a source for connection and bonding. From inquiring about specific products, complimenting each other on the street, or anything else really, learning and connection is built into the practice of painting our faces. 

Meals can be precious bonding time where you talk about all things makeup. Use this coupon to get 10% off Kyuramen next time you and your friends are craving ramen!

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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Posted in Fashion, Friendship, onBeauty, onCollege, onStyle, Out On The Town, Roommates | No Comments »

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.

Treat yourself to fluffy pancakes, delicious desserts, and specialty drinks at Fluffy Fluffy Dessert Café! Don’t forget to use your Campus Clipper coupon to get 20% OFF with your student ID.

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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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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Chapter 4: Finding Oasis: escapes from the noise and hustle

Monday, August 4th, 2025
People skateboarding in Washington Square Park Fountain
Jazz players at Washington Square Park

The streets are always full of noise and busy. From the people who skateboard in the fountain at Washington Square Park, to the musicians who play jazz along our morning commute. The various conversations you pick up on from the people who walk by, or maybe even the music from your noise-cancelling headphones as you explore the city. The sounds of glasses clinking, food being eaten, art being made and cars honking trying to get from one side of the city to the other. The sounds of the subways roaring under you as you walk through the blocks and explore each neighborhood or borough. 

Taxi passes by 5th Avenue.

New York is never, and never will be, utterly “quiet.”

Nothing can silence the city that never sleeps.

So…what do you do when you want some peace and quiet? When you want to reflect, think, or simply relax with nature?

Luckily, there are hidden spots all throughout the city that allow you to have proximity to green spaces that are as tranquil as you can get in the city with roughly 8.3 million. Here are some of my favorite (and some I have even gatekept until now) spots that I frequent when I want to relax.

  1. Liz Christy Garden 
Flowers blooming while visiting the garden

Right off of the F-Train on the intersection between East Houston Street and 2nd Ave, you’ll find one of the cutest and in my opinion, most secluded corners of the city: Liz Christy Garden, a community endeavor founded over 50 years ago in 1974 and still thriving today.

Koi Fish swimming in the pond

Within it, you will find a beautiful koi pond with a variety of fish (and turtles!) swimming, benches and chairs to relax in, and blooming trees and other flora that disperse sunlight throughout every corner. The garden has little paths for you to walk alongside on, a composting section to fertilize the soil, and they are always looking for volunteers to help maintain and make the garden a space for everyone! I found this place one day by accident, just strolling around the East Village (which is one of my favorite neighborhoods generally).

More Koi fish I saw!

Upon finding it, I felt like I had legitimately left the city and despite still hearing the noise, it all dissipated. I felt so at ease, and even decided to sit down a bit and pay more attention to the beautiful nature all around me. This place is somewhere I go to whenever I feel stressed, bored, or want some fresh air. In the early fall or spring I also really enjoy taking in the warm sun, reading a book, journaling, or making phone calls here, as the scenery allows me to simply let go and be creative. 

  1. Pier 35
Views from Pier 35 Swings
Image Credit: https://secretnyc.co/pier-35-swings-nyc/

Overlooking the Brooklyn skyline, Pier 35 is a beautiful area to walk alongside if you want a change of pace from the (in my opinion) hectic and busy Hudson River Greenway.

There are plenty of benches to walk alongside, and it’s nice to see the various boats come and go from the nearby piers. What makes this place the best, however, are the swings by the river. Although always packed with visitors, these swings are so fun to go to as a group, or simply to relax if you can snag one.

View of the Brooklyn Bridge from Pier 35

The views from the swings are also amazing, overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge, World Trade Center, and other panoramic views of the area. I’ve been here both alone and with friends, but what really makes the key difference is coming late at night.

More views of the Brooklyn Bridge

The lights around both boroughs mesmerize you, and I enjoy standing by the railing and watching the cars come and go, as well as people who are walking or cycling the bridge as well.

  1. Tompkins Square Park

Another East Village/Alphabet City staple, Tompkins Square Park mirrors Washington Square Park but holds some more peaceful, cozy vibes. With a basketball court that’s jam-packed on sunny days, fountains, and even a playground, there is something for everyone.

Panoramic View of Tompkins Square Park
Image Credit: https://theclio.com/entry/22173

I love to watch people here, watch the sunset, and see the cute dogs that people walk past with. I think the reason why this park is one I enjoy more than the bigger WSP is because of the fact it doesn’t feel as overwhelming – instead, I feel a bit more invisible.

People sunbathing, having picnics, and enjoying a sunny day at Tompkins Square Park
Image Credit: https://www.tripsavvy.com/tompkins-square-park-the-complete-guide-4165940

I have often come here on what I would call “bad days,” and in hindsight I always find something that cheers me up. On the plus side, this area boasts a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and nightlife, so it’s a perfect little square that allows you to have the best of both worlds. If you are lucky, you will find a guy who writes free poems on his typewriter, one of which I got when I was feeling really down. It definitely cheered me up, and hopefully it can be a spot for you to rethink things or see a new perspective.

Snapshot of the letter that typewriter guy gave me

We live in a place, a world, a city where fast pace = life. But it doesn’t always have to be. If we simply slow down, lift our heads, and take things with a bit more calmness, we can open our eyes to what is right in front of us. Nature truly is magical.

Craving a break from late night studying, or simply want a refresh? Try Fragrance Shop to find a scent that will make YOU feel your best! 20% off with student ID + coupon!



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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Posted in Creativity, Friendship, onFun, onValues, Out On The Town, Uniqueness in NYC | No Comments »

Crash Course Connections Ch. 7: Far From Campus

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

If I could recommend one thing to do during your college experience, it would be to study abroad. After spending half of high school in lockdown, travel in coming to college started to feel like a real possibility rather than just a Pinterest board of pipe dreams. Eventually, I stopped decorating my walls with vacation photos and started packing my bags.

Since there are so many positives to this experience, I’ll start with the negatives.

The hardest part of going abroad is uprooting your comfortable little life. You don’t realize how much you take for granted until you’re away from it all – being close to home, your friends, your favorite coffee shop, or even just being able to speak the same language as everyone around you. It takes adjusting, just like moving to college took adjusting. But by the end of it, you come out of the experience as a new, and likely better, version of yourself. You become more cultured, more curious, and more empathetic. More human.

The more you embrace unfamiliar people, cultures, perspectives, and experiences, the more you discover parts of yourself you didn’t even know existed.

This series is all about connections, so let’s get into the people you meet abroad.

Study abroad friends from Florence, pictured on our first group trip to Vietri Sul Mare.

My first time studying abroad was in Florence, Italy. I was lucky enough to go with one of my best friends, which made for the perfect travel buddy situation. I quickly made new friends, fell into a rhythm of exploring Western Europe, and soaked up every moment. I’m still close with the people I met in Florence. In fact, I’m probably closer to them now than we were during the actual semester. Something about traveling together either bonds… or breaks.

When you’re sharing cramped Airbnbs and catching 6 a.m. flights with a group, tensions flare. Sometimes for no reason other than everyone being tired and irritable. That’s when you learn: you need a certain disposition to just go with the flow when things don’t go as planned. Because they won’t. And if you can’t, the trip will suffer.

I’ve traveled with people I thought I could barely tolerate for more than twenty minutes. But then we came home, stepped outside of the travel bubble, and became completely different people to each other. Some friendships really do blossom after the fact, but not all connections are meant to last. Fleeting encounters, whether platonic, romantic, or something in between, are practically a hallmark of solo travel.

For my second semester abroad, I went to London. Not exactly a massive departure from New York, but it was European enough to feel like an escape. This time, I went alone. I didn’t know a single soul going in, which made it both lonely and liberating.

A walk down Tower Bridge from my semester in London.

At first, the idea of traveling solo scared me. There’s comfort in having people to help plan, navigate, and share the experience with. Going to Marrakech, Morocco, by myself pushed me to manage all aspects of the trip—budgeting, timing, safety, and decision-making. I got to spend my time exactly how I wanted, without having to consider anyone else’s needs. I could fully be me, or I could be someone completely new. How exciting!

Solo travel forced me to connect in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise. From the person in the hostel bed next to mine to the local sitting beside me in a café to strangers in markets and museums, I had some instant connections. There was Puck in Dublin and the group I met in Barcelona. I flirted with strangers, danced merengue with people I’ll never see again, and made memories that feel almost dreamlike now.

And that’s okay. Those light, transient moments are beautiful precisely because they’re temporary. They exist in their purest form: no pressure, no expectations, no future to complicate the memory.

Of course, I still try to exchange socials. Why not? We live in an age where staying in touch is easier than ever. But I also make peace with the idea that not every connection is built to last. Some people are meant to be shooting stars—bright, brief, and unforgettable.

My best friend and I in Paris, posing in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral.
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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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What Are Friends For?

Thursday, July 24th, 2025

Maintaining friendships is something I’ve struggled with in my time in college. There is so much talk about romantic heartbreak that we aren’t really prepped to lose a friend. It can be just as painful, especially the kind of friend you thought would be in your life forever. College has taught me that not all friendships are meant to last and learning that lesson is one of the most defining parts of growing up. 

As someone who is more reserved, quiet, and a little rigid when it comes to my beliefs, making friends is very hard for me. It can be hard for me to put myself out there and show my true personality. Throughout my time in college, I’ve made some incredible friendships. People I laughed with until I cried, studied with until 2 a.m., vented about life, etc. These friendships carried me through some of the hardest and happiest moments of my life. But I’ve also watched a few of them dissolve quietly, unexpectedly, or sometimes through conflict I never saw coming.

Some breakups happened because we simply grew apart. Our schedules no longer aligned, our values shifted, or we stopped showing up for each other. Others ended in messier ways. Misunderstandings that were never resolved, hurt feelings that were never addressed, or boundaries that were crossed too many times. Regardless of how it ended, the aftermath always had the same emotion… grief. 

One of the hardest friendships I lost was this past semester. I had my friend in my second semester of sophomore year, and we clicked almost instantly. We had pretty similar lives and bonded over very similar experiences throughout our lives. We eventually became roommates all of junior year and shared everything from meals, secrets, and inside jokes. At the tail end of the second semester, I had changed. I struggled a lot with my mental health, which made me push myself away, causing a bit of a shift. I also wasn’t perfect and did things that I shouldn’t have done, causing the friendship to take a rift. I left the end of the semester with us on bad terms and haven’t talked to her since. In hindsight, the friendship ending was mainly my fault, and now I take accountability for a lot of things happening. Losing this friendship was probably one of the toughest experiences I’ve gone through. I always thought she would be one of my bridesmaids or like an aunt to my future children. I cried for weeks and not because I was angry, but because I missed her.

Although losing my friend was really hard, it did teach me a lot of things. I learned a lot about how I am and how to proceed with friendships in the future. The first and most important thing is to allow yourself to grieve. Whether it was your fault or not for the friendship ending, it’s okay to feel sad, angry, confused, or betrayed. Your emotions are valid even if no one else sees the loss. The second takeaway is to set emotional boundaries. If you’re tempted to keep checking their social media or overthinking every last conversation, pause and give yourself time and distance to process. The third takeaway is to not romanticize the past. It’s easy to only remember the good times, but reflect honestly. The fourth and final takeaway is to make space for new connections. Losing one friend doesn’t mean you’re unlovable. Sometimes it just means you’re making room for better alignment. Take those friendships as a learning experience for someone else you meet.

Friendships evolving into love and unity.
Image credit: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-kids-call-the-shots/202208/how-to-foster-friendships-filled-with-love-heart-and-spirit

Friendship breakups can impact your mental health just as much as any romantic one. Sometimes the most painful endings lead to the most powerful growth, and while I’ll always carry love for the friends I’ve lost, I’ve learned to carry it in a way that doesn’t weigh me down. I keep going back to the time I had with my friend and reflect on the positive, which gave me lifelong memories I’ll never forget and cherish for the rest of my life. 

Let’s face it… the best thing to do after a breakup is to eat food. When I went through my friendship breakup the first thing I ate was ice cream. At Sundaes and Cones, you can enjoy a free topping with any purchase. Use your school I.D and enjoy!

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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Crash Course Connections Ch. 5: The Third Space

Wednesday, July 9th, 2025

College campuses are inherently conducive to connection and community. From frat life to campus food halls, cafes, and sprawling green lawns for picnics and post-class hangouts, they often serve as self-contained bubbles of social activity. It’s easy to forget the vastness of the world beyond your college gates when everything you need seems to exist within them. NYU, however, famously brags that though it doesn’t offer the traditional campus experience, “the city is your campus.” And honestly, that mostly checks out.

During the fall and spring, from West Houston to Union Square, NYU students are everywhere. We flood the cafes, comb through the thrift shops, linger at halal trucks, and turn every bookstore into a study nook. In a borough of nearly 1.7 million people, I still manage to run into my campus crush, my favorite professor, and my academic nemesis all in the same week.

But one of the most underrated perks of going to a school “without walls” is the natural encouragement to explore third spaces—places that exist outside of school and home. These are the environments where you start to find yourself beyond your student identity.

A third space is defined as any social setting outside of one’s home (the first space) and work or school (the second space). It’s where people gather, interact, and slowly, sometimes unintentionally, build community. Coffee shops, libraries, parks, gyms, and even online spaces can all function this way. For me, third spaces have been the key to experiencing connections that extend beyond the classroom.

Photo of La Colombe off Lafayette taken from bar.

One of my favorite third spaces is La Colombe—the location on Lafayette Street, specifically. It’s a chain, sure, but there’s something about this particular cafe that drew me in. It started out as my go-to alternative when Bobst Library started to feel a little too stuffy. I liked the light, the energy, and the cold brew. But then one of the baristas told me I looked like Ariel from The Little Mermaid, and I was hooked (pun very much intended).

From that point on, I became a regular—not just because of the caffeine, but because of the people. I got to know the baristas by name, and before long, they became my first real friends outside the world of NYU. It started to feel like its own little ecosystem.

Midterms season rolled around, and I needed an outlet. I’ve always used baking to decompress, but my roommates could only eat so many brown butter cookies and Basque cheesecakes. So, I brought a few treats to the cafe. The reaction was immediate and warm: ”thank-you” free coffee, and a new kind of reciprocity. I started sitting at the bar whenever I came in. Between rushes, baristas would pause to chat. Sometimes my new friends would slide into the seat next to me on their break and catch up for a bit. Eventually, they invited me to their Friendsgiving.

The infamous barista Friendsgiving.

There’s something grounding about having relationships with people who aren’t students, people who are still in their twenties and thirties but a few steps ahead in life. They aren’t worried about club e-board elections or what their thesis is going to be about. They remind me that life keeps unfolding beyond the classroom and that identity can exist outside of resume lines.

Third spaces give us the rare chance to be seen as full people—not just as students or workers, but as regulars, neighbors, and community members. In a city as overwhelming as New York, it’s easy to feel anonymous. But in a third space, you can start to feel known.

Take 10% off your next latte or pastry when you present your student ID at compilation coffee roasters in Brooklyn!

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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Finding home in your “far-from-home”

Monday, July 7th, 2025

There are so many perks about going to school that’s not in state, or for some, even in their home country. You get to meet new people, branch out from places that you are familiar with, try new foods from all over the world, and have a huge level of independence given the fact that you are farther from home. 

But at the end of the day… We are all human. We crave familiarity. We crave feelings of security, of belonging.

Of home. 

Coming from North Carolina to NYC felt easier than I know the shift has been for others. Despite living in NC, my heart belongs to Argentina: the home of Futbol (3x world cup winners!), Messi and Maradona, Mate (our signature drink), and dulce de leche. Having my roots there has allowed me not only to be bilingual, but also have experience with cities such as Buenos Aires or La Plata that are very similar in many ways to NYC (just without the European charm that cities like Paris and Buenos Aires share.)

La Casa Rosada (the pink house) in Buenos Aires. Our version of The White House

I travel there often to visit family, as everyone besides my immediate family resides there. I consider it such a privilege to be able to have that culture ingrained in me, and I take my experiences, knowledge, and customs everywhere I go. From eating dinner much later than Americans, to celebrating Christmas the night of the 24th instead of the 25th, these are traditions and ways of living that nothing, not even having lived in the United States most of my life, can ever change.

Messi art I saw on my first day in NYC last August

You may be thinking: “Avril, you don’t seem like you are complaining about NYC. So why write about missing home?” The reason for that is because of the diversity and range of foods, community, and culture that I can find from my home country, in the backyard of my college experience. In North Carolina, it is hard to find Argentine products, as it’s much more niche and the population of Argentines in the state isn’t as large when compared to Colombians, Mexicans, or other nationalities. In NYC, I have a much wider net of places I can try, which was just another reason behind many others why I decided to leave NC for NYC.

I have been to Queens, around Manhattan, and even just around Greenwich Village  to find people and foods that bring me back to my beloved country, even if I may be 8,521 km (5295 miles) away. One of my favorite foods from Argentina has to be the empanada.

Empanadas I had at Sabor Argentino in West Village

Similar to other Latin countries, empanadas consist of a dough (for us, flour-based but some other countries use maiz or other things to make the dough) stuffed with meat, cheese, vegetables, ham, or even fish (mainly for Easter). Argentine empanadas are very unique as they are often flaky, and our fillings consists of ground beef with olives, hard boiled egg, spices, and sometimes even raisins, sweated onions with cheese, caprese, spinach with bechamel sauce, and ham and cheese – among other varieties depending on the province. 

While exploring the city, I found one place in the Upper East Side called Criollas. Using organic, local ingredients, this small shop makes one of the best Argentine-style empanadas I have had in the city, and immediately takes me back home. The ones they sell at this shop are baked, and while we do have fried empanadas, the baked ones remind me of those my mom would make me growing up. They are so comforting on a cold day, and whenever I go I enjoy speaking Spanish to the employees.

Alfajores I made for Valentines Day in 2022

They also sell a small variety of sweets, such as alfajores de maicena and medialunas. Alfajores de maicena are these macaron style cookies made out cornstarch (maicena) and layered between a slab of dulce de leche (a thicker, much richer caramel spread) and dipped in coconut shreds around the rim of the entire sandwich cookie.

Medialunas I made in December

Medialunas are a cross between a brioche and a croissant, and can come either sweet or salty. The sweet ones have an almibar (or simple syrup) covering them, making them slightly sticky and irresistable. They also have versions with dulce de leche and powdered sugar which are so yummy.

They recently opened a location near the NYU Campus (right near the exit at West 4th Street), and with the student discount they have I went a LOT at the end of last semester.

Another place I found that serves some of the best Argentine food is around 50th Street at a place called Baires Grill. It is gorgeous inside, with dim lighting, chandeliers, and very fine decor. Everyone I have talked to at the place is from Argentina, and it’s amazing being able to sit down and talk to someone in your native language. I have been 3 times, and something I cannot stop ordering is their vacio, or steak. Brought to you with chimichurri (a parsley, onion, red pepper, and olive oil sauce for meats) and salsa criolla (red peppers and onions in olive oil), paired with the meat it tastes phenomenal and has a flavor that makes me want to come back for more.

A variety of Argentine dishes, including vacio, ensalada rusa, and milanesa napolitana

I always get it with the ensalada rusa, or russian potato salad, which is a common side dish in Argentina composed of potatoes, peas, hard boiled eggs, carrots, and mayo, which they also prepare exactly like home. You cannot leave this place without trying one of their desserts, my favorite being the flan with whipped cream and dulce de leche, which is the way we do it in Argentina, and it tastes just like the brasseries that I go to when I am back there.

Baires Grill in 50th Street

I spent my birthday dinner there back in May, and I went with one of my closest friends who is also Argentinian that I met at NYU. We bonded very closely over our home country, and I am so glad that I was able to find someone to share things about myself to someone who would understand, and speaking to someone in Spanish while being far from family allows me to feel relaxed and definitely makes the city feel comfortable.

Even if you call NYC home already, or if you come from the other side of the country, or even world – try to find what feels familiar. Find that link, that tether that keeps you grounded and makes the city feel exciting. For me, that was being able to meet people from home, which I usually do not have the chance to do when in NC, and being able to have restaurants that serve home cooked foods from Argentina, which I also don’t have in NC, nor my mom closeby to prepare. 

My friends and I in Times Square on my birthday night after eating at Baires Grill.

You are bound to feel homesick even in a city as fun and exciting as New York. But it’s how you manage your time, the people you find to be your closest friends, and the places  you keep going back to because of the people, the food, or the atmosphere, that will make this place be your second home. The city is your oyster after all.

Interested in empanadas? Love to cook? Get 10% off on quality ingredients to make your own at Lifethyme Market in the West Village every Thursday and Saturday with your student ID!



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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