With Commodores Care finally behind us, campus life is on the road to normalcy—or at least the covid normal we are used to by now. As several opportunities open back up, a few changes may have flown under your nose. This Top 5 list has you covered with some of the more substantial shifts that may turn your spring semester from mundane to anything but plain!
5. The Libraries are Back!
Perhaps you forgot the delight of studying hard at Stevenson or Central. The re-opening should be commonplace for most who were aware of what the end of Commodore Care entailed, but in case you thought it was too good to be true, your favorite studying spots are ready to be your home again. No more do you have to suffice with your 13th trip to Buttrick, daring to find an empty classroom to conform to your solitude. Yes, the security guard that always asks for your ID missed you too.
4. Hit the Gym, Jack!
During Commodore Care, the Rec we know and love was appointment-only, limiting our time at the gym to one hour a day (and that’s if you managed to land a spot before it was full). Now, the Rec is back to business like usual, although several places will still take some time to open back up (such as the pool). And if you do not want to take that 20-minute stroll from Commons, the Commons Gym is also available for you to get in those reps!
3. Be a Fan with Mr. C
I know, I know, it has been ages since sporting events were open to students. Cheering fans and that loud, annoying-yet-almost-majestic buzzer sound are all distant memory. But finally, you can attend that basketball game or upcoming baseball match to cheer on fellow Commodores. Have your ID and vaccination card on standby, and you can see that beautiful smile of Mr. C again.
2. Masks? Glad you asked!
Technically, this isn’t much of a campus change, but come on! To accompany you on your mask journey are three new K-95s to add to your collection (that’s if Mr. C didn’t forget about you, though). Now you are more than prepared to transition back to in-person activities. Greek life is starting to open back up, the dining halls have chairs back on the ground, and your favorite clubs may no longer be on zoom (I see you, MCL)! If you want to do anything really, always keep a mask handy.
1. Dining Upgrade
If you wake up early enough, Vanderbilt offers life-changing breakfast options. From Commons to Rand, you will not be disappointed by the delicate yogurt, fluffy pancakes, and tater tots with that crispy crunch. While on main-campus, you can now head over to Kissam for breakfast, including brunch on the weekends! And if you are a fan of Açaí, granola is now an added topping option. Back over at Commons, you can now enjoy flatbreads for dinner, and most dining locations offer your favorite sparkling water, Bubly, along with various soda options by Stubborn! The list goes on, but one unforgettable mention is boba at Highland, available only during weekdays at limited hours. Oh, one more thing, dinner is extended by 30 minutes, lasting up to 8 pm!