My Commons Life

News & features about the Vanderbilt Commons from the students who live here

Search Results for: social

Top 5 Social Locations on Campus

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In a normal Vanderbilt semester, we would be gathering in dining halls, walking to classes, and going to country concerts in the city. While these social opportunities are currently off limits, It doesn’t mean that we cannot connect with others. It just means that the few opportunities that we do have left are that much more important. 

Whether you’re grabbing a meal or just looking to get out of your dorm, here are some great spots to have a good time.

1. Wyatt stairs/Peabody lawn

It’s not unusual to see several groups sitting on the Wyatt center steps on a sunny afternoon. Sometimes, you can see their gazes going back and forth as they watch a football or frisbee being tossed. 

2. Commons Lawn 

You can’t talk about social life in Vanderbilt without mentioning the Commons lawn! Serving as an integral part of the freshman experience, it has persevered through COVID-19 as a vibrant social scene, especially on the weekends. 

3. Branscomb Common Room

You might be thinking, “Every dorm has a common area”. While that is true, few are as spacious and lively as Branscomb’s. It’s almost its own mini library for studying, except you can also cruise around the room on a skateboard.

4. Alumni Lawn

 

While there several lawns on campus, this seems to be an especially popular spot for picnics. It’s also where you’ll find the most residents from Carmichael Towers, who live right next to it. 

5. Rand Decks

This is a great dining spot to enjoy your delicious Rand cookie! Also, make sure to look up from time to time. Rand’s central location gives you the highest chance of spotting Elliot Choy whipping by on his longboard. 

Spotify Playlists for Vandy Freshman

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I am always searching for songs and Spotify playlists to match my emotions or whatever I’m experiencing, and I’m sure many of you do the same. Being in college comes with many new experiences and emotions, so I wanted to share some Spotify playlists to match them!

Sometimes you need an upbeat, confident playlist to listen to on the way to your big exam. Music can actually have a big impact on your mood, so listening to positive and confident music will help you feel the same going into your exam.

Here are some other, more chill playlists to stream before your exams. These songs will put you in a good mental state and even calm your anxiety before the test.

Before I came to college, I mostly listened to music in the car. But since I’ve been at Vanderbilt, most of my music listening has been while I’m walking around campus. If I’m having a tough day, feeling tired, or just don’t feel like going to class, listening to music on my walk can help improve my mood and energize me. So, here are two playlists for walking to class and romanticizing your college life.

Most of us have probably been spending a TON of time studying – the workload at Vanderbilt can be a lot! But, having just the right playlist can make studying so much better and the time go by faster. This playlist is perfect for studying around campus, especially now that it is officially fall!

Here is some study music specifically for when you really need to lock in. This playlist has more instrumental songs and music that will really help you focus.

Of course, one of the main parts of college is spending time with your friends. So, here is a playlist to put on when you’re hanging out with all of your friends or just want happy, social songs!

This is a fun playlist I found full of older songs that will make you feel like you’re going to college in the 1990s. I love when music can transport you to a different time period!

We are in Nashville, so we pretty much all have to be country music fans by default! Here is a playlist titled “Nashville Hits” to get you connected to the music made here in Nashville.

Another very real part of college is feeling homesick. Even if you’ve been loving Vanderbilt, it’s still natural to be struck with feelings of homesickness and missing your family and friends back home. Sometimes, we just need music that connects with some of the more difficult emotions we might be experiencing, and this playlist is perfect for that.

Finally, with fall just beginning, I had to include a fall playlist! As someone who lived in Texas my whole life where we didn’t really have the stereotypical fall season, I’m excited to romanticize the cooler weather and orange leaves and this playlist will definitely help me do that.

Thanks for reading and I hope these playlists can be a part of your daily life here at Vanderbilt!

Lessons I have learned in my first month as a college student:

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“The days are long, but the weeks are short,” an older friend once told me upon reflecting on her first year of college. As I have begun to settle into my routine, I can’t think of a more accurate sentiment. Our busy days feel strenuous in the moment, but constant activities keep our minds flying so fast that we have little time to process them. 

So here we are, one month into our college experience. Each of us holding onto our own overwhelming amount of moments and lessons to reflect on, but here are some of mine:

We all had preconceived ideas of how college would play out, and whether you were fearful or unbearably excited, I am sure there have been moments that surprised you or played out differently than you would have imagined. What I have learned is that things won’t fall into place as quickly as predicted. Maybe this was a product of my high expectations and overexcitement, but everything good takes time, whether that be friendships, finding impactful study methods, or getting involved with clubs. 

Speaking of getting involved with clubs or organizations, that is another challenge in itself. I would have never expected how hard it would be to get involved. After endless rounds of applications, resume edits, and information sessions, I find myself itching to just be a part of something. Patience is certainly a virtue we are exercising during this time period, and it is quite challenging to be a freshman trying to expand your circle when you have to go through such extensive processes to do so. On the topic of building a social network and making friends, it’s easy to feel removed from the rest of campus as a freshman living on the Commons. This environment can feel like an echo chamber with only freshmen who are equally as new and inexperienced with college life as you are. Talking with upperclassmen is like a breath of fresh air, and we truly have so much to learn from their experiences, so I would recommend chatting with older students as much as possible. 

On Mondays and Wednesdays, I have a fifteen-minute window to get from Commons to Buttrick Hall. Everyone made it very clear to me that I would be booking it to that class and that, in general, the walk back to Commons from Main Campus was god awful. In this first month of classes, I have been pleasantly surprised with the fact that the walks do not take as long as everyone had warned me. Even on the hottest days, I enjoy those solitary moments on the way to and from class. 

Before the school year started, I was nervous for lecture classes and worried about feeling like such a small fish in a large pond. However, I have encountered professors who genuinely strive to offer support in any way possible. They may express their helpfulness in intimidating or stern ways, but they are here to assist you, and they want you to approach them for that assistance. 

Whether it’s a challenging class or spending time with groups of people that you don’t know, there are going to be situations that make you uncomfortable. It’s way easier to hide from that discomfort, but I’ve grown to realize that those moments are crucial for progression. We all grow in various ways and navigate this new experience at different rates. Some people take the time to quietly process how they are feeling, while others stay crazy busy and keep pushing forward to avoid those slow and quiet moments. All of us need to keep in mind that this is everyone else’s first month in college as well and that each freshman is trying just as hard as you are to find their place.

First Year, Five First Time Encounters

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Vanderbilt’s stunning and lively campus was one of the main incentives for me to attend. Not only was the architecture and landscape striking to me but so was the culture and student life, and the idea that there was always something going on to participate in, makes writing this piece an easy task for me. 

The nicest dining staff

Before coming to Vanderbilt, I wasn’t aware of how kind, energetic, and patient every member of the dining staff would be during those daunting busy rush hours. I have found that everytime I go to get a meal, I am greeted with the warmest welcome and smile. I believe that this characteristic of staff is something that Vanderbilt has done an amazing job at upholding; the attitude of who you encounter can completely change your day!

So many sidewalks.

The criss-crossing sidewalks definitely prove to be a challenge when you face them with google maps, however, I have begun to learn them as the first days on campus close out. Many beautiful buildings on campus can look the same to us, but learning how to utilize the campus shortcuts (which I still need to learn myself through simply practicing..) will be very valuable, especially during this time of what feels like endless construction. 

Everyone meticulously focused in a common room 

When I entered the dorm for the first time and saw the common room area, I didn’t think it would get as much use as it has. I’m not sure if every other house can say the same (Go STAM FAM!), but to me, walking out of my dorm room to consistently see people focused and studying together in the middle ground between sides of the dorm, is satisfying to say the least. It’s nice to know that anytime I would like to focus but perhaps socialize here and there, I can step outside of my room and be surrounded by a collaborative environment and get to know the people on my floor better. 

A lively student section 

The turnout for Vanderbilt’s student section at the football games this year so far has surprised many. With a big upset during the season opener, since I came from a small high school with little to no student section, being surrounded by such high energy and people who genuinely wanted to watch the game, was an exciting first experience for me as a Vanderbilt student. 

Our Police dog

There was no better surprise than walking out of the football game to be greeted by such an adorable furry friend on campus, adding to keeping us safe! If you ever encounter him, his owner is very friendly and will usually let you pet him. I personally love the idea of having a pet around campus, you can’t deny that it doesn’t lighten up the mood when you see him around!

We’ve all collectively only been here for a month, so I know that all together there are so many more encounters to come across on campus. Don’t forget to soak in every last bit of the summer weather as it comes to a close and we transition into fall, and keep an eye out for all of the fall activities, traditions, games, etc that campus will offer! 

5 Poems to Remind You That You Belong

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Freshman year is hard. With so much change it’s easy to start thinking of “what if” questions. “What if I would had gone to that other school, would I be as stressed?” “What if the major I chose is too hard, should I just quit now?” “What if I only got into Vanderbilt as some sick and twisted social experiment, and I’m not actually qualified to be here?” It’s so easy to get wrapped up in all of the reasons why you’re not “Vanderbilt Material” that it is easy to forget all of the reasons you are. So if you’re sick of hearing your parents assure you that you belong and you need another perspective here are five poems to remind you this is exactly where you need to be.

Study Tips for Freshman

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The semester is certainly picking up, and a lot of us freshmen are in the midst of our first college exams. You may be feeling overwhelmed by the workload and anxious about your upcoming exams – I know I have been! So, I compiled some helpful study tips that have been helping me and can hopefully help you.

Find Study Spots on Campus!

I’ve only been at Vanderbilt for a few weeks, but I’ve already found an abundance of great study spots. Something I love about Vanderbilt is how there is always somewhere to go and study. I don’t like studying in my dorm room, so I’m always looking for places on campus to get my work done. Here are a few of my favorite study spots:

These chairs behind the Commons Center are a great place to study, especially when the weather is nice! And I promise they are more comfortable than they may look.

The libraries on campus are obviously a great place to get your work done because you have to be quiet and everyone around you is also focused. Here are some pictures of three of the libraries on campus, Stevenson Library, Peabody Library, and Central Library.

There are so many great places outside to study, and the lawn chairs around Commons are a perfect way to enjoy the last few weeks of summer and get your work done!

Study With Friends!

Another great thing about being at Vanderbilt is that you are surrounded by people who also need to study and want to be successful in school. So, studying with friends is the perfect thing to do. You can be social while still getting your work done and you can hold each other accountable. For example, you and your friends could all put your phones in the middle of the table to make sure you don’t get distracted. Also, scheduling study times with friends will motivate you to actually go and study.

Stay Organized!

    Being students at Vanderbilt, there is so much to keep track of. We have assignments in multiple classes, upcoming exams, and club meetings. So, it is essential to find a way to stay organized. I like to keep it simple and make a To Do List for each day on a GoogleDoc. Maybe you like to write things down and want to get a physical planner. Some people just add all their due dates and meetings to GoogleCalendar. I’ve also seen some well-designed GoogleSheets where people keep track of all their assignments. If you haven’t already, take the time to find the ways that you can stay organized in the midst of our busy schedules!

    Thanks for reading and I hope this gave you some useful tips and the motivation to be productive! I know we all have the ability to succeed here at Vanderbilt; it’s just about taking advantage of the campus, finding what works for you, and staying organized!

    Entertainment Picks About Starting College

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    Relatable Movies, Series, and Songs to Ease Your College Transition

    No matter what I’m experiencing in my life, I always search for entertainment that relates to my situation. If I’m traveling to a cool place, I listen to songs about that place or watch a movie filmed there. If it’s a holiday, I watch all the episodes from my favorite shows about that holiday (think the Friends Thanksgiving episodes!).

    So, as I’ve been preparing to move to Nashville and begin my Freshman year at Vanderbilt, I’ve been searching for entertainment that relates to this new experience in my life. 

    I compiled a list of movies, TV series, and songs about beginning college and starting a new chapter of life. I hope that if you ever are feeling alone or unsure in navigating the start of freshman year, you can turn to some of these fictional stories about people going through the same thing.

    Movies

    Legally Blonde

    • I couldn’t not include this classic film, and even though it’s about starting Law School, we can still relate to Elle Woods’ journey showing up at a new school and working to prove herself. Elle’s ambition and passion for what she does is inspiring and something we can apply to whatever we pursue at Vanderbilt.

    The Social Network

    • This is a fascinating film about Mark Zuckerberg starting Facebook while at Harvard. There are a lot of good lessons here about success and even what mistakes not to make. It’s cool to watch a true story about ambitious students in a similar environment to Vanderbilt.

    Accepted

    • Applying to college was a stressful time, and there were a few times I worried if I would even get accepted anywhere! Well, Accepted is all about a kid who whose worst fears came true and got rejected from every single college he applied to. So, he ends up creating his own college and it’s pretty hilarious.

    Back to School

    • If you are ever feeling upset about your college situation, just know it could be worse: your dad could have enrolled in college alongside you. That’s exactly what happens in this comedy that follows a wealthy businessman father who enrolls in his son’s college.

    Sydney White

    • This is a fun film all about a girl whose plans to join the top sorority at her college go astray. It has a great message about finding friendships with unexpected people which is something I hope we all experience at Vanderbilt.

    TV Series

    Gilmore Girls

    • Gilmore Girls and main protagonist Rory Gilmore were guideposts throughout my high school journey, and so it was fun to rewatch the episode of Rory moving into college as I do the same! The later seasons follow Rory through her college journey, beginning with Season 5 Episode 7 where she moves into her dorm.

    Community

    • Community is a comedy about a diverse group of students at a community college. Although the characters are in much different stages of life than most of us here at Vanderbilt, it shows how college can bring people together in amazing ways.

    Normal People

    • Normal People is a TV series that follows Connell and Marianne through their high school and college years. It highlights how college impacts us personally and introduces us to new people and opportunities.

    Felicity

    • Felicity is about a girl who leaves home to begin her freshman year of college in New York. She experiences all the ups and downs of friendship, romance, and growing up throughout the series.

    Fresh Meat

    • This series follows six university housemates who are living away from home for the first time. The characters are all very different, but together they embark on a new journey and experience all the fun and challenges of college.

    Songs

    There aren’t a ton of songs that are directly about moving into college for freshman year, but I compiled a list of songs that cover themes of growing up, moving away, and beginning a new chapter of life. You should totally add some of these to your playlist for walking around campus this fall!

    “Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift

    “Changes” by David Bowie

    “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac

    “Don’t Forget To Remember Me” by Carrie Underwood

    “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

    “Forever Young” by Bob Dylan

    “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson

    “You’re On Your Own Kid” by Taylor Swift

    “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

    “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

    “Nashville” by David Mead (not about anything to do with starting college but it’s a great song that references Nashville!)

    Thanks for reading and I hope that you can turn to some of these entertainment picks as you move in and start life at Vandy! It is an exciting and often overwhelming time, so having entertainment to relate to can provide comfort and remind you that you aren’t alone.

    What BVU is up to: Black History Month Edition

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    February brought forth a vibrant tapestry of events and celebrations at Vanderbilt University, all in honor of Black History Month. From the savory delights of the soul food luncheon to the intellectually stimulating 16th annual Murray lecture featuring Professor Daniel Black, our campus was alive with activity. The unveiling of new art in the BCC, coupled with insightful artist talks, added another layer of cultural richness to our community. Not to mention the spirited Commons Bond celebration at Stambaugh House, where laughter and camaraderie filled the air.

    These events were more than just gatherings; they were tributes to the remarkable achievements, contributions, and struggles of African Americans throughout history. They provided us with an opportunity to delve into the rich and diverse heritage of Black Americans while also shining a light on the ongoing journey towards equality and social justice.

    Black History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role African Americans have played in shaping the cultural, social, political, and economic landscape of the United States. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and, above all, appreciation for the resilience and creativity of the Black community in the face of adversity.

    As a testament to the vitality of our community, I embarked on a journey throughout February to capture the essence of what the Black community here at Vanderbilt was up to. What follows are raw, authentic photographs depicting the everyday activities and moments that make BVU’s Black History Month so special. Join me in celebrating the vibrant tapestry of our community’s heritage and accomplishments.

    1.) ESSA Harambee Practice

    2.) Study Session at the BCC

    3.) Friends Link Up

    4. Walking to class

    5. Package pickup

    6.) Playing Pool at the Pub

    7. Game Day

    8. Shop Black Vandy

    9. Embracing Black History Month

    10. Deep Conversations

    11. Long Meaningful Walks