College.
The time of your life when you have new experiences, learn skills that you will use to master your chosen career, and create relationships that last for years to come.
There is a very careful balance that one must find between college and social life. Obviously, you will need to find your own personal balance so that your college career is successful academically.
If you are attending Berkeley College New York, in the heart of NYC, be prepared for a list a mile long of activities and events that will have your social calendar filled to the max. The area is rich in culture and locales to fill your schedule for weeks.
A majority of this article will focus on the fun ways to enjoy your life as a college student at Berkeley. Just remember – make sure your work is done AND have fun. You don’t want mom and dad upset about your grades if you spend too much time at Cha Cha Matcha sipping matcha lemonades and not writing your English paper.
Nosh on Local Fare
Finding and checking out some of the restaurants near Berkeley is an absolute must. As a general rule, college students are usually on a budget, so it’s important to check out menus ahead of time.
Check out nearby Just Salad. Focusing on fresh food and environmental friendliness, Just Salad gives you a quick lunch choice with plenty of options.
Not sure what you have a taste for but know you want lots of options? In that case, go to UrbanSpace. If you are in a hurry, you can order ahead and your food will be ready when you arrive. This food hall has options for everyone. Some popular stands include Extravert, Little Biggs, Mian Kitchen, Playa Bowls, Roberta’s and Red Hook.
UrbanSpace is a true destination in its own right. Sure, it’s an amazing food hall, but it also doubles as a great evening spot to meet up with friends. Some of the food stalls offer happy hour drink specials and free WIFI is always available.
As a college student, it’s a requirement to be familiar with 99 Cent Fresh Pizza. With 8 locations throughout the City, you can grab a quick slice, no matter your location. Most locations are open until the wee hours of the morning and multiple delivery options are available. Slices of pie start at just $1 and go up to $2 for specialty slices. Combo options are available as well.
Pro Tip: If eating out isn’t in the budget this week, be sure to stock up on some fresh ingredients to make sandwiches that you can eat for a quick and filling lunch. If you love to cook, make a hearty soup at night and pack lunch for a few days after.
Enjoy Some Downtime
Don’t forget to enjoy a little downtime in between class and late night study sessions. For some, relaxation means spending time at the library, reflecting on their day. For others, just sitting in front of the television is enough to suffice any downtime needed.
Self-care is a great way to unwind and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Getting your nails done or enjoying a pedicure is always welcome. Some enjoy joining a local gym to wind down. Many gyms offer organized cardio classes and personal training.
Another great option for relaxation is spending some time at a local café such as Black Fox Coffee Company or Maman. Here, you can likely access free WIFI and have a dedicated space that is usually pretty quiet. You may want to catch up on some studying while here or just watch the latest Tik Tok videos.
Pro Tip: No worries if you need to save some cash this week. Go home and brew a k-cup of your favorite blend and add some sugar-free syrup and cream. Coffee shop quality for pennies! Invite a few friends over for coffees and a mid afternoon study session.
Socialize and Meet New People
Attending college is one of the best experiences you will have in your life. Get out there and socialize with classmates. Who knows – your future spouse or bestie just might be at the event you decide to attend.
Nearby Bryant Park is a fantastic place to meet up with a new friend or to make new ones. Featuring an ever-changing schedule of activities, Bryant Park is a cost-effective way to make lasting college memories. Outdoor activities such as juggling, ping pong and ice skating in the winter are just a few of the options. While at the park, check out the food kiosks and the Bryant Park Grill.
Pro Tip: Bryant Park (and other parks!) is a great way to add some activities to your schedule without breaking the bank. It’s totally free to enter the park and walk around. Pack a picnic lunch and you have a gorgeous day in the park! The park does have lots of free activities like upcoming yoga class. Check out the schedule and plan accordingly.
Check Out a Band or a Show
No college experience is complete without attending at least a concert or show with friends. There are an endless supply of large-scale venues and local watering holes alike. Most coffee shops and bars will have local musicians playing in the evenings. Check their individual websites for more information.
Check out the headliners at Madison Square Garden for maximum memory making potential. This historical venue is home to the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. When those teams aren’t playing, concerts, plays and wrestling events are always on the calendar.
Home of the Rockettes, Radio City Music Hall also features a wide variety of shows throughout the year. During 2022, Josh Groban, Lorde, Alicia Keys and Chris Rock are all set to perform.
Pro Tip: Paying for an expensive concert ticket is a luxury and definitely not a requirement for your college experience. Check out some of the free local shows with friends. Your school may also offer free/subsidized tickets! The memories you create will be priceless.
We hope you have learned a few ways to add some value to your college experience while attending Berkeley College New York. With a healthy balance of schoolwork and play, you are sure to have the college experience of a lifetime!
