('

{shortcode-ad1aded3e51f68df0efbeec02d70b3ad6944988d} Say what you want about Annenberg — but one thing they always get right is their music. Timbaland for lunch? TLC for dinner? Mariah Carey for Brain Break? No matter the meal, I feel fed. I feel alive. I feel seen. Whenever I look around while waiting for my slice of grape pizza, I think to myself: Who’s the diva on aux right now? Where in Berg are they?? Can they please share their playlist with me???

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And I know I’m not the only one who wonders daily about these mysterious DJs! Every day, I catch many of you Annenberg-goers tapping your foot, humming quietly, or outright singing along. After fanboying from the sidelines for far too long, I had to know more about the people responsible for bringing this amazing energy into Berg.

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With “No Scrubs” playing in the background, my investigation brought me all around the food pick-up area, asking both staff and management if there’s someone who usually plays Berg’s immaculate selection of music. Soon enough, I was introduced to one of these icons — and her name is Dolma! Fortunately, she was more than willing to walk me through the art of music curation in Annenberg.

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Like any good DJ, Dolma accepts recommendations from the crowd, but don’t be fooled: she herself has immaculate taste, one that has developed after years of listening to every genre under the sun (and not just a certain artist that’s dating someone on the Kansas City Chiefs like some of us…). Her favorite genre is Bollywood music because it reminds her of road trips with its romantic and soothing melodies. (Her favorite Bollywood artist is Arijit Singh!) She also enjoys Korean music, citing artists like BIGBANG, 2NE1, and Blackpink’s Rosé. And as a millennial, she makes sure her mixes include 90s and 2000s music. Lastly, she listens to Tibetan and Nepalian music too, as she was born in Tibet, raised in Nepal, and moved to the Boston area around 15 years ago.

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Of course, I had to ask the burning question: Spotify or Apple Music? It turns out that Dolma uses neither! Although she does draw inspiration from Instagram Reels and “the kids,” YouTube is her go-to for creating mixes; her “YouTube is always on,” whether it’s in her car leaving from work or right before bedtime.

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Dolma also said music can be important for everyday life at Harvard. Dolma knows how overwhelmed and stressed students can get (especially after we’ve walked into Berg in the same clothes as yesterday after a long night in Lamont) and loves to see students energized by her song choices. It’s especially exciting when students come up to her saying, “I like this music! Who’s playing this music?” She told me, “I personally play music for you guys to cheer up — not only for you guys, but for everybody. I don’t play only one kind of music, like American music. I play Indian, Nepalian, everything, so that way, everybody can enjoy it.”

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Just as music brings joy to the student body, Dolma says that it brings joy to the HUDS staff too: “Music brings us all together. Even if we have busy days, music makes them happy; at least, they forget how hard the day is going.” Dolma continued, saying, “I don’t want to stress when I come to work…I wanna enjoy and sometimes have fun at work, not just work!” (Me too, Dolma, me too.)

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Needless to say, I walked into Annenberg looking for a DJ — and I left having made a new friend. If you’re like me and enjoy the music at our dining halls, let me remind you to show HUDS some appreciation! They have some of the nicest people on their team — so not only will you get fire music recommendations, but you’ll also have many new faces to say hello to every time you get a meal (maybe it’ll even motivate you to stop spending so much on Felipe’s).

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To Dolma and every other undercover DJ that’s part of the HUDS staff, thank you for your tunes! After a long week of psets, readings, lectures, sections, and meetings (the list is endless…), you give our lives a boost of much-needed joy. Maybe you can revive our party scene next.

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{shortcode-130893ad720c3f75e07db45226e6c184b2b47cd1} Whether you planned your own Super Bowl watch party or were too distracted by the Sunday Scaries to tune in, yesterday was a time for good-spirited taunting and glaring at your rivals. (Well, it should have been good-spirited, but — let’s face it — Harvard students are competitive.) And the rivalry doesn’t stop there; quite a few intense rivalries can be found right on campus.

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Harvard vs. Yale

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This one is the most obvious example of a Harvard rivalry, but it’s not one to be underestimated. The annual Harvard-Yale football game is one of the only times a year where libraries are left desolate, psets are unfinished, and tailgates are thrown (and attended). On this day it’s Harvard against the world — the world being a safety school in New Haven.

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Oatly vs. Dole Whip

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While the transition from the traditional soft-serve to Oatly in Harvard dining halls caused uproar across campus, the switch from Oatly to Dole Whip might just be more contested. I’ve only ever heard two polarizing opinions about this switch — you either are refreshed by the sweetness of your sorbet, with new exciting flavors every week, may I add, or just miss your classic choco-vanilla swirl.

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Quad vs. River

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Another obvious rivalry is one where allegiances are out of the control of most of the student body (we see you, House transfer students): student housing. River folk notoriously boast about their view of the Charles, proximity to other houses, and relatively shorter walks to class, while Quadlings argue in support of Currier dhall (duh), Cabot Cafe, and their famous Housing Day videos (unbiasedly, as a river resident myself, I think I’m Octo-Bob’s biggest fan). Nonetheless, I don’t think that this rivalry will ever be settled. May the best House win!

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iPad vs. Notebook

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This debate truly is one for the books, or your files app. While functionally both of these options will produce the same end result, we know that students are passionate about their choice of note-taking. There is something special about slowly filling up pages of a notebook that Goodnotes and Notability can’t replace, but there is also something nice about traveling light with a sleek tablet. You must choose a side in this debate, though — I don’t want to hear about any “paper screen protector” nonsense.

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Lamont vs. Widener

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As a library Hobbit myself, I do truly believe that this is the type of rivalry that breaks up friendships. In another age-old pairing of a beauty with a beast, we see Harvard’s two main libraries. Widener, the crown jewel, the flagship library of Harvard’s campus, competes with the homey, 24-hour, comfortable Lamont Library for your time and attention. While Widener lets you lean into the aesthetic of being a Harvard student, Lamont allows you to actually be a Harvard student between the hours of 10 p.m. and 9 a.m., so it’s really your choice. But that choice determines where you’ll spend most of your time, so you better find friends that all follow.

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Flyby vs. FlyBy

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As a Flyby writer, I feel very passionate about this rivalry. As a Flyby reader, you should as well. Unlike the other rivalries, these two sides are not similar in their nature. Instead, the true rivalry lies between who truly owns this name. Which Flyby (FlyBy?) are they referring to? The one that provides you your favorite student pop-culture news, or the one that shove (lame) HUDS prepackaged sandwiches at you? We have beef, and I’m not talking about lunch meat.

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Currier Ten Man vs. Kirkland Beef

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Speaking of meat, this beef is not to be mistaken for your favorite FlyBy sandwich choice. I’m talking about who takes the cake for being THE Harvard dorm on campus. The Currier Ten Man sports its own elevator, bar, and massive common room, perfect for your favorite party needs and game cravings. The Kirkland Beef, on the other hand, brings the true historical charm of Harvard living to life. If you overlook the mice, the crown molding and retired fireplaces in this room remind you exactly which school you are partying at (in the best way possible, shoutout engibeering). Take your pick — or your walk, depending on which part of campus you inhabit.

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All in all, some friendly competition always makes for a good time. Above any rivalry that might divide us on this campus, we will always have one thing in common — our hatred for the Lowell Bells.

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{shortcode-a0c8ee6011a3b605e46d1c71a9a8deeeaa2b2dae} As we bundle up for the harsh Boston winter, everyone needs a good coat. But which coat will make you fit in with the right crowd? Winter coats, like concentrations, say a lot about a person. Here’s our semi-comprehensive list so you can get the coat that will best suit your needs (or so you can change your coat if you’re worried about how you’ll be perceived).

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Computer Science: Patagonia Nano-Puffer

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A true CS concentrator in jacket form, it’s all about functionality over fashion. It’s optimized for efficiency, folds down into a tiny pouch, and keeps you warm without feeling bulky. Perfect for the long walks between the Science Center and SEC (the path I assume many CS concentrators take, though personally, I wouldn’t know).

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Economics: Canada Goose

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Just as Econ is one of the most basic concentrations you can choose, donning a Canada Goose is also one of the most basic coat choices you can make. Whether in extreme cold or extreme market conditions, it’s all about maximizing utility, minimizing inefficiency, and making sure you come out ahead in the long run. (And you might need a sweet, sweet Econ concentrator salary to make up for the cost of buying a Canada Goose.)

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English: Thrifted Vintage Peacoat

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Classic, romantic, and always a little dramatic. This coat was probably found in a quirky thrift store next to a dusty copy of Pride and Prejudice. It’s not necessarily the warmest coat out there, but the chill is just another metaphor for existential longing. And, if you’re interested, it pairs perfectly with a strong opinion on Hemingway.

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Environmental Science and Public Policy: Puffer Made from Recycled Water Bottles

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This coat is ethically made and stuffed with vegan insulation, just so everyone around you knows that you don’t use plastic cups or water bottles, and you have a compost bin in your backyard (or maybe even your dorm). It’s not just about keeping you warm; it’s about making a statement. This piece of outerwear is best worn while hiking, protesting climate change, or explaining (entirely unprompted) why fast fashion is ruining the planet.

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Government: Overcoat with a Scarf

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This coat is just as much about presence as it is about warmth. But at the end of the day, you’ll end up getting the Canada Goose when the scarf becomes too much of a hassle to carry everywhere for a little extra warmth — just like how you’ll eventually go into consulting.

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Psychology: North Face Fleece

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This fleece is the human embodiment of a reassuring nod, just like your friends who are Psych concentrators. As you diagnose your friend’s attachment issues, this fleece says, “Tell me more about that.” The big pocket in front is perfect to keep a notebook with your ever-growing catalog of observations of the people around you.

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Philosophy: Cape Coat

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Is it practical? Who’s to say? What is practicality, anyway? This coat is perfect for wandering around the Yard while contemplating these questions (only when you need a break from contemplating the meaning of life). We recommend pairing it with a turtleneck, round glasses (prescription optional), and a performative tote bag full of philosophy books you will even more performatively read at an overpriced cafe.

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Like winter coats, concentrations come in all shapes and styles. Whether you’re going for efficiency, prestige, or love of the craft, one thing’s for sure: you’re getting through the cold in a way that’s true to you.

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{shortcode-b005bf1d6db6db25954b329cd89860b173944c7b} The best part about spring semester is that you have a chance to not make the same mistakes you did in the fall. After an agonizing finals period and (hopefully) restful break, most people return with delusions of grandeur about their new semester. Whether it’s a personal transformation, academic comeback, or improved relationship status that you seek, there’s a certain expectation that spring will be your time to shine.

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But it’s easy to find yourself a victim of your own unrealistic expectations — a realization that strikes many Harvard students in their first few weeks back on campus.

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Expectation: The workload shouldn’t be bad!

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More than a month away from school has a way of making your memories of all nighters and mental breakdowns a little hazier — and therefore a lot more palatable. The first week of school should really only be syllabus overview and introductions, and anything difficult really won’t start until midterms.

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Reality: It’s worse than you remember!

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That same month of healing and restoration will come back to bite you when (somehow) you forget how to lock in for more than twenty minutes without a social media break. Even if you are at peak performance, you can’t fight the fact that your professors have all been told that their classes were too close to being gems and are now going above and beyond to disprove that. I never thought I would wish for more icebreakers, but it feels like we’re on week seven of content on day two of class.

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Expectation: You will manage your time better.

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A color coded Gcal makes you basically invincible. With time blocked out for studying, eating, and breathing, there’s no way to lose track of time. Even if you added a fifth class and two new clubs, I think we all learned from last semester, and we’re sure to have a very straightforward week of going to and from our classes without a hitch.

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Reality: You actually have less of it?

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Maybe it’s the lack of daylight, but I swear the 24-hour cycle doesn’t apply to Harvard. Even the most meticulous schedulers have managed to double book meetings or to give themselves 15 minutes to get from the Quad to the Science and Engineering Complex. And of course it’s only bound to get better from here, because comp hasn’t started and neither have most sections.

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Expectation: The weather will be fine!

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This one is exclusively for those of us who don’t come from cold climates. Of course, I knew it would be colder than when we left, but it’s hard to worry about the chill of winter when you’re getting sunburned in Miami or L.A. I thought that as long as I wore my puffer and scarf, I would be totally fine.

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Reality: Cambridge or Antarctica?

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It turns out that somehow the wind can chill you even through a Canada Goose. If the temperature alone wasn’t bad enough, the ice on the ground is downright hazardous. It’s not simply unpleasant to leave your dorm — it’s treacherous.

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Expectation: I’ll be more social this semester.

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Whether “being social” means going to MIT from Thursday through Saturday or just leaving your dorm in general, most people hope to find more time for friends, and the first week of spring seems like the perfect time to do just that. With all the free time you (should have) had, and super light workload, this should be the best time to be a social butterfly.

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Reality: Friends??

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The very concept of having friends feels far-fetched. Everyone seems to be on the same page about barely having time for themselves, let alone a packed social calendar. In these first two weeks alone, seeing a moderately full dhall has made me sigh, and I’ve already realized that I’ll have to be in bed by 9 p.m. on Saturdays if I want to have a hope of finishing my 1000 pages of unintelligible readings.

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Well, it’s still too soon to write off spring as a disaster. Even if your first two weeks weren’t great, there are still eleven more potential comebacks to make. And if it doesn’t work out — at least you’ll find solidarity with everyone else who thought spring would be so different from fall.

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{shortcode-d25ed366f8e8bfde60c1c04fe585077e1140404b}

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New England winter is in full swing, bringing with it snowy mornings, a newfound appreciation for the dhall tea selection, and oh…what’s that? You take a step and, suddenly, the soles of your shoes slide out from under you! Before you know it, you’re on the ground — cold, disoriented, and questioning every life choice that got you here.

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That’s right! The winter also signifies the return of Harvard’s most humiliating extreme sport: trying not to slip on ice while getting to class. While we can’t exactly tell you how to avoid being humbled by ice, we can point out the worst best places to face-plant on campus!

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The Science Center Plaza at midday

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There is truly nowhere busier on campus between the hours of 12-2 p.m. on a weekday than the Science Center Plaza. The pressure to keep up a decent walking pace is already intense enough, let alone trying to avoid adding a poorly-timed tumble to it. Bonus points if you happen to slip while trying to get through Meyer Gate, or in front of The Chicken and Rice Guys. Nothing pairs better with their halal chicken bowl than a side of secondhand embarrassment.

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The crosswalk in front of Smith Campus Center

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Regardless of whether or not jaywalking is at play (let’s be real), this is prime territory for slipping while crossing Mass Ave. With hordes of buses, shuttles, cars, other students, and tourists, this can prove to be one of the most public falls imaginable. And, don’t forget the many glass fish-bowl study rooms that will be watching from above. You’ve got eyes on you from all angles, so remember to look both ways (and where you’re stepping)!

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Outside of Sever Hall on a Thursday

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The exodus from Sever after Thursday sections is a force of nature. Tripping here puts you at risk of being trampled by a stampede of history concentrators, first-years in Expos, and los estudiantes de clase de Español. Worst time, worst place.

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In front of a big tour group at the John Harvard Statue

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We’ve all seen the masses that engulf the John Harvard statue on our way to class — large, dense, and unforgiving. For some people, taking a fall at this location can have a silver lining. Maybe it gets you out of being asked to take someone’s picture, or maybe it even helps prevent someone else from touching the toe (for the common good). Also, unlike the other locations, you probably (fingers crossed) never have to see these tourists ever again! See, people, sometimes you just need perspective.

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The steps of Widener

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Saving the best worst for last, this one is a no-brainer. While tumbling down the steps of Widener is a real possibility regardless of the season, it’s especially hazardous during the winter, when the salty, wooden steps tend to already be blocked by people taking pictures (tourists, sigh). Particularly clumsy Flyby readers should consider taking the back entrance instead.

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Even though slipping during your daily commute to class is not something any of us strive to do, at the end of the day it happens to us all. We promise your social image will remain unscathed — well, unless it is a really big fall. Then maybe the site will be memorialized on Google Maps for all to see, just like the Boston Cop Slide.

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And, while we here at Flyby can’t prevent your run-ins with ice, we can warn you of the weather ahead if you subscribe to Harvard Today!

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{shortcode-f9135035b1c0f50fc2f97357540df1578760bcc2}

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Waking up at home the day after I finished clawing my way through finals was a relief. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, the breeze was not frigid cold — and oh, what’s that? I was in a bed that was actually comfortable?! Needless to say, I had no more alarms blaring at 8 a.m., no more readings haunting me, and no need to frantically sprint across campus in the freezing cold for a Gen Ed that was supposed to be a gem but instead was the hardest class I had. Just me, my thoughts, and an empty Canvas To Do page.

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Home smelled like fresh homemade food, specifically my mom’s steak quesadillas. It sounded like my chihuahua barking at absolutely nothing. It felt like the warmth of the holidays — family, holiday decorations, and the temporary bliss of pretending that Harvard doesn’t exist.

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But fear not. Harvard will find you.

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Almost every day of break, the email flood continued.

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“Apply for Summer Funding!” “Exciting Internship Opportunity!” “Are you thinking about your post-grad career?” Why are you reminding me about internship opportunities on January 1st?! Can I not enjoy the new year in peace???

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Plus, the whole “home for the holidays” is relaxing until it isn't. At first, it’s nice to see your old friends, catch up, and maybe even reminisce on high school memories. But then the questions start:

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“So, how’s Harvard? Is it like Legally Blonde?” No. “Have you met anyone yet?” Sort of. But no. “What are you doing with your life?” …That’s actually a great question.

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And with just one simple reunion, the existential dread starts to creep in. The productivity guilt gets to you. Depending on when your final exams are scheduled, you have at least a full four weeks of break. That’s enough time to actually rest and recharge, right? Wrong.

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Attending a school like Harvard means you are never really on break. Subconsciously you’re thinking about what you’re going to do this summer. Maybe your plans include updating your resume, making a list of what summer opportunities you’re going to apply to, or writing your senior thesis. (But if you’re like me, your greatest accomplishment was getting to season six of The Nanny.)

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The thing is, winter break is so long (imo) that, for a while, nothing happens. No deadlines, no club meetings, not even the comforting stress of a last-minute pset. This inevitably leads to me feel that I should be doing something. It feels like Harvard has wired me to thrive in the chaos consisting entirely of due dates and finals and sadness, and without it, I’m just existing. Never actually resting.

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And just when I want to be productive, the semester is already hurtling toward me at full speed. My brain has to go from zero to more than 500 pages of readings in an instant (the joy of a humanities concentration). The transition is so jarring that I almost miss the peaceful nothingness of doing absolutely nothing. Almost.

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So, is winter break a blessing or a curse? A saving grace or a time of unproductive stress? Honestly, it’s a break we desperately need but never truly take. Probably because we don’t know how.

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{shortcode-f73b80157245d9e88e0241c75202394af4ca1184}

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Now that we’ve been back to school for a week, we are all too familiar with our daily commutes. Or we should be at least — it's too early to skip class just yet. Whether it’s early in the morning for your 9 a.m., or at night as you hike back to the Quad, music is essential to making your daily treks all the less miserable. Here are some of our top musical picks to start your spring semester off right!

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“The Love Club” by Lorde - Ava H. Rem

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I’m looking forward to so much flove this semester and saying yes to more silly outings with friends <3. Also, with spring on the horizon, there will be no possibility of any seasonal sadness!!

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“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John and Keke Dee - Tehle E. Ross

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I have concerningly high expectations for spring semester, so here’s to hoping that my classes live up to them and don’t go breaking my heart!

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“Higher Love” by Kygo and Whitney Houston - Evangeline J. Gilmer

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I had a rather difficult end to 2024, and while that will make this semester challenging, I have high hopes academically and career-wise! No matter what, I think I’m going to be really happy with the person I’ve become by the end of this semester (which is also the end of my college career). :)

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“Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston - Victoria Chen

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I definitely need to prioritize self-love and self-care more this semester, making this song a necessary anthem. Also, Whitney Houston’s voice is timeless and amazing!!

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“Messy” by Lola Young - Shawn A. Boehmer

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I really want to be more myself and care less in general this semester. Comparison is truly the thief of joy! I am so excited for the semester and want to do it all…while being a little more messy. Let’s be real — life here is entirely for the plot. Last note: I do NOT want to go through a breakup (as the song depicts). Quite the opposite, actually (TBA!).

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“Wild Ones” by FloRida, featuring Sia - Christian Serrano

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Pop music from the 2010s makes me feel so euphoric, and honestly, it embodies the energy I want to radiate this semester (!!!): confident, unapologetic, genuine, and electric. With cold weather and an academic comeback knocking at my door, I want to focus on my mindset as much as I can in order to make the most of the semester!

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“Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” by The Smiths - Mirika J. Jambudi

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The title says it all, but I’m hoping for academics, extracurriculars, and internship applications to go positively this semester. I also want to find a better balance between school and taking care of myself!

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“DtMF” by Bad Bunny - Mia N. Rodriguez

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Although I’m really excited for my last semester, it’s hitting me all at once that this is indeed my LAST semester in college. I really want to prioritize simply having a good time with friends and making memories while I still can (in order to not end up like my dear regret-filled Bad Bunny).

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“Put The Money In The Bag” by Yuno Miles - Wyatt G. Croog

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This song really speaks to me as I gear up for a semester marked (rather impressively) by no class on Thursdays and Fridays. I’m determined to make the most of my time by being smart about my finances and exploring alternative revenue streams. Like the song, it’s all about focus and determination—I’m not just securing grades, I’m securing the bag in every sense.

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"Summer 2000 Baby" by TV Girl and George Clanton - Melissa C. Suquisupa

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This song always reminds me to make the most of every moment, and that’s exactly what I’ll be doing this semester. Especially since I’m almost halfway through college… So, here’s to living it up while being an academic weapon (tbd)!!!

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“Money Trees” by Kendrick Lamar - Brooke Decho

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This song just makes me think of sunshine and being outside, as my friends and I would listen to it every summer in high school. I sense that I’ll need those good vibes to carry me through this semester…

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“Time of the Season” by The Zombies - Bianca M. Egan

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It feels like a relatively calm song; I’m hoping that nothing crazy happens, but I’m also trying to reign in good karma — hence the title.

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If you’ve made it this far, we hope we were able to take your mind off of the bitter cold for 48 minutes while you do whatever it is you have to this semester. We wish you good luck with classes, and have a beautiful spring semester!

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{shortcode-57d6b303490415ac0a223cbe94a73d5ac9a4ebd4} You’ve just returned from winter break, where you’ve enjoyed the comforts of home, maybe traveled, or simply binged every series Netflix had to offer (The Perfect Couple, anyone?). Now, you’re thrust back into the unforgiving terrain of Cambridge, and it’s survival of the fittest — or, at least, survival of the slightly better prepared.

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Much like the hit reality show Survivor, the first week back at Harvard is full of challenges, alliances, and the occasional blindside.

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The Physical Challenge: Getting to Class

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Cambridge in January is not for the faint of heart. Between treacherous, ice-covered sidewalks and wind tunnels that could knock over a lamp post, simply getting to class feels like an endurance test. The thought of skipping class to avoid these elements is tempting, but even Survivor host Jeff Probst would frown at such a weak strategy. After all, starting the semester by sitting out the challenge isn’t how you win immunity — or a spot in a professor’s good graces.

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The Social Game: Remembering Everyone’s Names

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You’re back in the social arena, and, like a Survivor contestant joining a newly combined tribe after the merge, you have to quickly reestablish alliances and navigate a suddenly larger crowd (seriously, the number of people in the Eliot dhall must have doubled since finals). But, here’s the catch: you’ve forgotten half of your peers’ names. Cue the awkward “Hey… you!” and the desperate search for clues in conversations to figure out who you’re talking to (Econ…from New York…this could be anyone!). Just when you think you’ve identified your ally, they blindside you, dropping a detail that makes you even more confused than before (wait… dual degree at Berklee?).

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The Mental Marathon: Syllabus Week

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Sylly Week is the ultimate bait-and-switch. Initially promising a light reintroduction to academic life, it quickly reveals its deception, instead consisting of a schedule packed with exhaustive reading lists, impending deadlines, and professors who somehow expect you to buy six textbooks by tomorrow. It’s the ultimate test of cognitive flexibility as students attempt to maintain their quickly-depleting optimism while facing the cold, harsh reality of their commitments.

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Forming Alliances: Group Dynamics

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Quickly identifying potential allies is vital. The first week back is a scramble to form study groups, secure reliable lab partners, and align yourself with peers who will lift the collective academic load rather than weigh it down. Choose wrong, and you might find yourself stuck with a “free rider” all semester: the group project equivalent of someone eating all the camp rice without lifting a finger.

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The Tribal Council: Course Selection

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The add/drop deadline looms like Survivor’s tribal council, where contestants must face a vote that determines their fate in the game. In this case, your schedule is on the chopping block. It’s a high-stakes vote, and each course is up for elimination. Will you keep the seminar that sounded interesting but requires a 20-page paper every other week? Or will it get blindsided in favor of the lecture with optional attendance and a lenient grading curve? Every decision is crucial as you try to avoid Jeff Probst snuffing out your torch — and by torch, we mean your GPA.

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The Immunity Idol: Caffeine

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In this game of Survivor, caffeine is the unspoken immunity idol: your only lifeline when the fatigue of early morning lectures and late-night study sessions (yes, already) threatens to send you packing. Without it, surviving the first week would be a near-impossible challenge, and you’d be left wandering the academic jungle, drowsy and at risk of early elimination.

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Now that it’s the end of the week, you’ve conquered the physical, social, and mental challenges that made you feel like a true Survivor contestant (and question your decision to skip the gym over break). Just like any good reality show, there’s a sense of accomplishment as you look back, stronger and more strategic than before. The real challenge, of course, lies ahead: how you’ll play the game in the coming weeks. Will you form the right alliances? Will you manage your course load without going rogue? As the game of Harvard Survivor continues, one thing’s for sure: you’ve already earned your place on the tribe.

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{shortcode-4c1283194f6b67116fa8ca11c1ac2790555a8131} If you’re still recovering from the temporary TikTok ban and feeling a bit put-off by the on-again-off-again nature of the app (it’s giving toxic situationship energy), we’ve got just the cure for you: a curated list of hobbies to entertain yourself that don’t involve swiping, liking, commenting, or reposting. Enjoy!

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1. Reading (non-BookTok books)

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Reading is a hobby that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. It has evolved with the times, from the classic, thought-provoking works of our ancestors to books that are popular simply for having the “one bed” trope. However, our hope as humble flyby writers is that the post-TikTok world will make a transition from smut and spice to flyby articles. Wishful thinking?

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That said, TikTok’s proven unreliability has forced us to come to terms with a life without it. How are we to survive without what many of us rely on for inspiration, news, advice, recipes, and everything else we never knew we needed? We read.

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Read that book about the psychology of getting over your breakup instead of listening to an influencer who definitely potentially fabricated a breakup for views. Catch up on The Harvard Crimson every morning for your news (or subscribe to the flyby newsletter, Harvard Today). Buy a cookbook. Finally read that classic that you have been putting off because you wanted to read the newest TikTok-approved romantasy series instead.

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2. Walks

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Without TikTok, we lose more than a boredom remedy. Without TikTok, we are no longer relieved of the tiresome task of having to come up with our own ideas or think our own thoughts. Scroll on TikTok for a while, and you’ll find a video telling you how to handle your toxic situationship, something that sparks an idea for your thesis, and someone telling you what clothes you absolutely need for 2025, all in the span of five minutes.

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What are we to do without something that provides so much to our lives? How do we come up with such groundbreaking ideas on our own? It’s simple. We move. We walk. A walk is a beautiful thing that forces a person to grapple with their thoughts, look at the world around them, and maybe even gain some gratitude for life without an app. If you can brave the cold, snowy Cambridge weather, a walk might be just what you need to allow yourself to figure out what you want to do with your life and how to get there. Maybe not. But there’s a chance.

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3. Podcasts

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Podcasts are, simply put, the best attention span-friendly way to fill the void TikTok created. Honestly, they’re a way to fill more voids than just TikTok. Feeling bored? Listen to a podcast on why boredom is positive for your cognitive function. Feeling lonely? Tune into a gossip-filled podcast that makes it feel like you’re the podcaster’s friend. Feeling like you just need to rant about how reading flyby has changed your life, or you’ll explode? Pick up the microphone and give it a whirl.

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You can even listen while cleaning, working out, or doing a pset (fingers crossed). Podcasts don’t allow reposting, liking, or saving, but they do still provide the opportunity to get the attention of the ex that blocked you on everything. The flyby-certified best way to break no contact? Make a podcast. Reconnect on podcast-bro Spotify. The possibilities are endless.

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4. Puzzles

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To answer your question: no. Puzzling isn’t just for elementary school kids or grandparents. The same energy that you dedicate towards scrolling through videos on your “for you page” and piecing together drama that involves your favorite content creators can be applied to finding the missing corner piece of a 1,000 piece puzzle. It’s a similar action, just in a different font.

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Puzzling is also a great way to channel your stress and avoid falling into a TikTok black hole that eats up hours of your day (definitely not speaking from personal experience). Nervous about classes starting back up again? Puzzle. Annoyed about the frigid weather and have no energy to go outside? Puzzle. Having a quarter-life crisis about your concentration again? Grab as many puzzles as you can — 20-piece ones, 100-piece ones, etc. You get the point.

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5. DIY Crafts

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TikTok is the new Pinterest, offering endless influencer recommendations on fashion, makeup, and lifestyle to its users. If you’re anything like us, you probably have a handful of screenshots of shirts, books, and cool jewelry you saved to purchase at a later time. Well, since saving money and not falling into every consumerism trap is in for 2025, it’s the perfect time to start DIY-ing some of these items.

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For instance, instead of buying a $50+ embroidered hoodie, take a trip to your local thrift store and Michaels to find a plain hoodie and cute patches you would want to iron on. Similarly, instead of going all out on an expensive charm necklace, buy the raw materials yourself — chains, unique charms, the whole shebang — and create an even cooler and less generic necklace that screams you to a tee. Bonus points if you invite your friends to your DIY session and make an evening out of it!

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6. Scrapbooking

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If a picture is worth a thousand words, a scrapbook is worth millions. While TikTok often showcases digital scrapbooks of users gushing about their closest friends in a CapCut slideshow, there is something to be said for physical collections of your most cherished memories. If you’ve ever flipped through a scrapbook or photo album your parents made and felt bittersweet nostalgia, there is even more reason to start your own collection.

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So, take another trip to your local arts-and-crafts store to find a scrapbook (and stickers or other optional decorations), and then head to CVS to buy a few one-time-use film cameras for a more vintage look (if you so desire). Then, grab your best friends and family members, live in the moment, and say cheese as often as you can! Your future self will thank you.

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7. New extracurriculars

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New year, new you, right? If you want to keep up with your long list of resolutions for the new semester, try comping new clubs! We understand that commitment is scary, and putting yourself out there again after you have been burned by the Harvard Undergraduate Caffeine Group is not on the top of your FWOC to-do list. But, hey. Flyby is here to welcome you with open arms and more Trader Joe’s snacks than any sane person could possibly consume in a year. So, take that leap and comp clubs (just flyby really).

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With the app’s uncertain future, you never know when you may have to pull these tips — instead of your phone — out of your back pocket!

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{shortcode-3018d4415d0ccbab536668b928795d4cfea945ae} Returning to classes post-winter break is a joyful time; though you now have to suffer through long-winded lectures and toil over psets, you finally get to see all of your friends (and miscellaneous acquaintances) again. But wait — that means you have to listen to their questions about your winter break…and answer them. You would really, really love to have an exciting conversation about your winter break during this week’s deluge of reunions, but that’s just the teeny-tiniest bit difficult when you did exactly nothing over break. You can’t admit that, but you also can’t lie.

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You have morals. You have principles. You are veritas. So what can you do?

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The answer is simple: pretend you’re putting your break on your resume. We realize, however, that not everyone has perfected the style of exaggeration involved in resume writing, so here are some suggestions if you’re in a bind.

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Went Shopping

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Served as a retail strategist and consultant for the textile manufacturing industry. Increased the national GDP by several percentage points.

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Watched TV

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Set a new world record for staring contests, outperforming specially trained computers. Analyzed messaging around relationships, drug paraphernalia, the prison-industrial complex, etc., in popular film media.

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Partied. Hard.

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Planned and executed various social events within a 24-hour period. Awarded accolades for resourceful use of purchased materials (left unsaid: all the alcohol went in your mouth).

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Built a Gingerbread House

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Exercised architectural expertise based on detailed blueprint instructions. Constructed a freestanding dwelling for a family of five.

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Watched TikTok All Day, Every Day

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Catalogued and analyzed trends in the entertainment industry on an hourly basis. Reflected on the fleeting nature of joy in the context of impending government limitations on individual recreation.

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Spent Too Much Money on Food

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Became a world-class food critic (for my five followers on Beli), transforming the restaurant industry on the local scale.

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Became an iPad Kid

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Invented time travel and age reversal technology. Experienced a nostalgic re-entering of childhood through digital media and games.

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Saw Your Family

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Conducted a case study of a middle-class nuclear family. Rekindled ancestral links.

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Walked Your Dog

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Began delicately training my beloved pooch for the intensive Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, upcoming in November 2025.

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Went on a Singular Walk

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Exercised grounding techniques through therapeutic action in the outdoors. Prioritized fitness through reconnection with nature.

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Built a Snowman… and Watched It Slowly Melt

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Followed in the footsteps of the world-renowned Dr. Frankenstein by creating an anthropomorphic lifeform not descendant from any other life forms, producing insights into its transient and elusive lifecycle.

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Ate Grapes on New Year’s

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Proactively prepared for future success and well-being by delighting in a delicious snack. Prevented deaths by choking within a crowd of intoxicated celebrants.

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Literally Stayed in Bed All Day, Every Day (You think we can’t salvage this one? It’s child’s play.)

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Entered and completed a mindfulness retreat to heal the mind, body, and soul after intensive academic activity.

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At the end of the day, let’s face it. We cannot be incredibly impressive all of the time; it is okay (and even welcome!) to be unproductive, especially over breaks.

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Winter break is a time to relax and destress, and we hope that you have had the chance to treat it that way. Even if you did not become an international superstar traveler this past winter, recognize your accomplishments! Flyby is proud of you — you’re doing amazing, sweetie. <3

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It might be spring semester, but spring is certainly not in the air. But, if not spring, what is (other than freezing temperatures)? For our writers, the answer is out-of-context comments made by fellow students on our first day of classes. Enjoy!

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“What are you in for?” – a member of the crowd outside Lamont as one of our writers waited for it to open (to return a book, not to study, you psychos). Is Lamont a jail now?

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In Berg this morning:

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- Random boy: “I live in Holworthy.”

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- Random girl: “I need your dorm to get mice. Can you leave a mess and pray?”

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“My cramps are killing me — I am so excited for menopause.” – a random girl in Tercentenary Theatre.

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“Why did Flyby lie about chicken tenders? That’s so cruel.” – Someone determined to slander us, despite the presence of chicken tenders in Dunster, Kirkland, Leverett, and Lowell (at least). First-years, you know which houses to hope for on Housing Day. (If you would like us to not lie to you about dhall meals, subscribe to Harvard Today!)

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“My New Year’s resolution was to wear something other than hoodies all the time, so today I have a sweater on.” – an optimistic, and well-dressed, second-semester freshman.

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On Luigi Mangione: “I could give him another back injury.” (This is why we can’t have nice things.)

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“There are a lot of you and a lot of us, so we’ve made a course Slack so we can all stay in touch.” – a professor to quite literally the smallest lecture class one of our writers has ever seen.

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“Bro, all I have in here are Zyns and Adderall.” – a student trapped in a lecture hall as he opened his backpack. (Zyns and Adderall were, in fact, all that he had.)

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In a two-hour graduate seminar:

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- Professor: “Let’s break into small groups to discuss the assigned readings.”

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- Random guy: “Must’ve missed that email.” (He then proceeds to grab his bag and march out of the room… 30 minutes into class.)

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Overseen, not overheard: elderly woman doing Tai Chi in the Widener stacks. Unfortunately, this is not the oddest sight we’ve ever seen in those stacks, and it is far from the most traumatizing.

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If you’d also like to eavesdrop on other people’s conversations and call it journalism (because it is), we have some advice for you: comp Flyby!

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We’ve all heard of the 75 Hard Challenge. If you haven’t, here’s the gist: it is a life-changing, habit-altering process created by Andy Frisella where you follow a strict regimen for 75 days in an attempt to get rid of bad habits and, hopefully, retain some of the good ones included in the challenge. In other words, it’s 75 days of making yourself completely miserable on the off chance that you halfway retain a couple of questionably helpful habits. It is equally likely that after 75 days, you’ll be so sick of being healthy that you stop drinking water entirely and eat quart-sized Ben & Jerry’s ice cream tubs nightly as a reward for finishing.

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While the 75 Hard Challenge is unrealistic (to say the least) and often completely anti-productive, the idea is not entirely a lost cause. With 93 days in this spring semester, I have formulated a super realistic plan of action to make this semester the best it can possibly be! Let’s get into it.

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1. Do all of your readings and psets.

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While the 75 Hard Challenge says 10 pages of self-improvement reading will suffice, given the sheer volume of work allotted to most Harvard students, a mere 10 pages is but a drop of water in the ocean. I know how daunting it can be to look at the syllabi of classes and realize that you have 150 pages of reading due for class the next day, 300 pages for the day after, and a pset due at midnight. Three days in, you’re buried under a mountain of incomplete readings, and, suddenly, you’re asking Chat GPT, Schmoop, Sparknotes, and whatever other platform you can find to summarize the text while simultaneously providing you with the perfect (original, never-before-thought-of) insight on what the readings mean so that you have something to share in class.

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Spoiler: that strategy never quite works out the way you want it to. And then, of course, the pset that you absolutely cannot afford to take a late day on, which you thought was only three problems, turns out to be the most heinous, elaborate, 27-part-per-question piece of homework ever. Bottom line is, you’re screwed. So, what do you do? Text a friend? Ask AI? Pray?

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No. This semester, we aren’t getting ourselves into these predicaments. During 93 Hard, we’re finishing all of our reading assignments and psets a day before they’re due. That’s right. A full day.

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2. Get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.

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This one might be tricky, especially if you intend to follow through with the rest of this list. Getting readings done, psets completed, and exams studied for often means sacrificing sleep, consuming absurd quantities of energy drinks and coffee, and saying good morning (instead of good night) to the Lamont security guards as you leave. But this semester, we will somehow make it work. If you’re like me and deleted TikTok from your phone while the ban was in place and can’t redownload it, you’re in luck! All those hours you would’ve spent scrolling can now be dedicated to improving your sleep schedule (and reading flyby).

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3. Use your meal plan.

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I don’t know about you, but I find myself rewarding myself for completing menial tasks far too frequently. I finished half of my reading assignment, and I think I deserve Insomnia; I went to office hours, and that means I get my nails done. My bank account isn’t even screaming anymore — it’s deceased. So, 93 Hard challenges you to only eat out once a week. If you finish a pset, treat yourself to a delicious dining hall chocolate chip blondie (how are those consistently SO GOOD?!). Let’s work on our self-control and make the most of our dining hall staff’s efforts. First-years, I’m sorry, but you’re stuck at Berg… so good luck with this one.

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4. Actually move!

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When you’re tasked with completing all of your assignments for classes, getting enough sleep, and not even being able to reward yourself for your efforts, the last thing you want to do is go to the gym. But this semester, WE GO TO THE GYM!!! I don’t care if you have to read through your notes on the treadmill or write your essay in your notes app in between squat sets: Move. Your. Body. It doesn’t have to be two workouts a day for 45 minutes each (extremely excessive and unattainable). Working out even a little is so beneficial for your mental well-being (unless you’re like me and have to listen to David Goggins to keep yourself on the StairMaster for longer than 10 minutes). Play intramural sports, join club pickleball, or go for a walk. It doesn’t matter. Just move.

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5. Take progress pictures.

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The semester often slowly sucks the life out of us, regardless of the good habits we maintain. A piece of us dies every time a professor cold calls, our finance internship application is rejected after three rounds of interviews, or an essay is graded far too harshly by a TF who makes it their personal mission to combat grade inflation. Even so, every reading you successfully complete, every pset you finish on your own, and every time you force yourself to sit in your dining hall, eating chicken breast and rice when all you want is a Felipe’s burrito, accumulates into a semester of progress. Documenting this progress is crucial to tracking all you suffer through this semester, so every night, before you go to sleep (after you finish crying about how you just don’t care about Math Ma enough to do this pset on your own), take a picture. Document your inevitable decline. At least you know that each day brings you one step closer to summer and one step closer to finishing this super realistic, super beneficial, life-changing, habit-building exercise!

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Being a Harvard student isn’t easy. The overwhelming pressure to overachieve and to constantly be productive looms over all of us. Every college student’s dream, right? I mean, who truly wants to go to big football games, have game nights with friends, or otherwise slack off when you could be on the grind 24/7? 93 Hard is here to help you lose the fun, unproductive aspects of student life, like staying up until 3 a.m. eating Jefe’s after visiting the sweatiest, most claustrophobic MIT frat you’ve ever been in. Let’s all set ourselves up for success and strive to be the best versions of ourselves possible!

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All work, no play.

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For undergraduates across the Northeast, the frosty threat of snow cover and 4 p.m. sunsets mean two things: it’s time to lock into your favorite library and prep for finals… and time to take every second away from your computer to savor the cusp of the holiday season.

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In Boston, nothing says winter festivities better than the cookie-cutter Hallmark dreamscape bordering the Atlantic: Snowport Village. Snowport exists as the Boston legend of holiday cheer — just 40 minutes away on the Red and Green (festive!) lines, it promises rich, tangy hot cider, tempered-chocolate pianos, and kitschy bobbles of every holiday shape, color, and size. But beyond its Willy Wonka exterior, any visitor knows that each handcrafted stall and ornamental delicacy is bound to drain your wallet. So, are the wonders of Snowport worth the prolonged commute and colossal costs?

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It was up to us to find out.

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After taking our first round of finals, we hopped into an Uber to Snowport to reward ourselves with some trinkets and sweet treats… because what more could you ask for? Armed with $50 — more than any finals-depleted college student could hope to spend away on a random Thursday — and a dream, we wandered through the stalls, looking at their different wares and trying to see what we could get with our semi-generous budget (thank you Flyby!).

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At 1 p.m., Snowport was pretty empty. However, there were still people milling about and purchasing treats and gifts for themselves and their loved ones. We came to the conclusion that Snowport’s real charm is experienced in the dark, with glittery LED arches bordering the stalls, so maybe that’s why entering felt a bit underwhelming.

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Our first turn into the maze of stalls, tents, and trailers led us to the savory snacking area: specifically, a Mexican food truck. As starving academics, we felt much obliged to support the small businesses there, with which our stomachs were very much in agreement. Mirika got an avocado taco from the food truck, which was pretty filling at a reasonable price point ($5) especially compared to some of the other stands.

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After prudently filling our stomachs, we wandered around some of the other stalls to check out the sweet treats and dessert stands, which is when a cookie shop caught our eye. While all of the flavors were equally enticing, we ended up getting the Funfetti cookie, which brought back nostalgic memories with every bite.

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Then it was time to turn our attention to the wares Snowport is arguably most famous for: their holiday beverages. Led to the Apple Cider Donut stand by the cinnamony smell wafting up from their fryers, we ultimately landed on a hot cider rather than the tried and tested hot chocolate (but come on, we already knew that was going to be good). This was the moment we began filing for bankruptcy. While it was one of the most delicious and spicy hot ciders this side of the Prime Meridian, the small sized drink (literally smaller than Laasya’s palm) rang in at a whopping $7.00: full dollars more than a large matcha at prime time Blank Street. Watch out, Nara Smith, we will be boiling and juicing our own apples from now on.

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Stomachs full, thirst quenched, and pockets in pain, it was time to weave through the wintery maze and window-shop for objects we couldn’t ingest. Luckily for us, every possible thing one would never need was up for sale. Don’t get us wrong, we wanted to buy every single one of the stained glass baubles and chopstick baskets, but unless we could switch out the $70 price tag for our weight in rocks or get rid of a zero, we simply had to put the objects back and move on. We were especially tempted to spend it all when we found an opportunity to spend “One short day in the Emerald City,” but unfortunately, its price tag was defying gravity.

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We did, however, end up making one final purchase from a stand that caught our eye for its mission. Refugee women crocheted/knitted beautiful ornaments for this nonprofit organization (Refugee Protection International), and proceeds went back to helping support these women and their families. We returned with a cute ornament for the Flyby office and the knowledge that our final dollars were spent to support a deserving cause, in line with the warm fuzzy holiday spirit of giving.

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Ultimately, our afternoon in Snowport was a much needed respite from earlier hours spent in Lamont. The holiday cheer, endless supply of couples in matching Canada Goose parkas and fuzzy earmuffs, and aesthetic samplings of holly, wreaths, and colorful winter assortments kept our frowns away. But be warned, Snowport serves more as a museum with endless gift shops than as a holiday market. A worthy excursion for a walk through winter wonderland, but not to buy all of your entryway mates holiday presents.

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{shortcode-f232dede77d8eb47045dad48f4cf95b176e9b83e} On the 12th Day of Christmas my true love gave to me… 12 Harvard Houses!

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It’s officially that time of year when we’re all collectively trenched, freezing, and waking up only to see the sun set shortly after, with only small doses of serotonin provided by Christmas music breaks in between loops of instrumental, lo-fi beats. Looking for a song to break up the monotony? See which song your house embodies and get into the spirit of holiday cheer (or try your best to; it’s rough out here)!

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Adams: “Silent Night” by Frank Sinatra

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If you are planning on pulling a dhall all-nighter, the Inn is not the place to be, that is unless you are looking for a Widener Loker Room, can’t cough out loud, silent night kind of vibe. Adams is out there doing their own thing, but maybe check in on your Adams friends since I haven’t heard from mine in a while. Hope all is calm and all is bright!

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Pforzheimer: “Baby It’s Cold Outside” by Dean Martin

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Pfoho — home to polar bears and the Igloo. It sure is chilly over there, as is the journey over. The duet aspect of this song is what I imagine a conversation involving someone just trying to go back home to the River and being convinced to stay a little longer would sound like.

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Lowell: “Carol of the Bells” by Mykola Leontovych

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An obvious choice. What Lowell lacks in house community, they make up for with their infamous bell tower. A timeless song with many renovated renditions. Can I put in a request for Lowell to play Carol of the Bells on the bells? So meta.

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Currier: “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee

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Another obvious choice. The spirit and cheer of this song emulate the spirit and cheer carried by the Tree community. With the many drop-ins from people coming from Harvard Dance Center right nearby, everyone sure is dancing merrily.

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Cabot: “Snowman” by Sia

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Have you ever seen the TikTok trend where you try to sing the whole chorus in one breath? Now try this: walking from the Yard to the Quad in one breath. Cabot residents seem to save the trip and stay home, so maybe the lyric “I want you to know that I’m never leaving” is actually biographical.

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Quincy: “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey

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THE song of Christmas and THE people’s house? The pairing is undoubtedly a match made in holiday heaven. Mariah Carey, the queen of Christmas. You know her, and you love her just like you know and love Quincy for all the charm, community, and hot breakfast that we have to offer (totally unbiased opinion as a Quincy resident myself).

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Mather: “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo & Patsy

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If Grandma had to make the trek from Northwest back to Mather, I fear she would not live long enough to arrive at her destination. An unfortunate run-in with a reindeer or a crash into concrete? Both seem to be on the same level #staysafeoutthere.

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Winthrop: “Do You Hear What I Hear” by Whitney Houston

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Winthrop is in the optimal position to listen in on the bustling noises of campus. Stationed right along Memorial Drive and next to the Lowell Bell Tower, they definitely have a prime location to listen to the night winds and Sunday bells that the rest of us don’t.

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Kirkland: “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” by Gayla Peevey

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Kirkland community is loud and proud, and I have no doubt that they would rally behind getting something as unique as a hippopotamus for Christmas. Perhaps they have a new theme to consider for their next Choosening!

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Dunster: “Run, Rudolph, Run” by Chuck Berry

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While the house with the most athletes seems to be a debate, it’s worth mentioning that Dunster has extended dining hall hours to accommodate athletes, closing an hour later than the rest of the houses. Whether they are running to make the end of dinner or running during conditioning, this song seems appropriate, not to mention their mascot being a moose (moose, reindeer, close enough). The Cambridge half-marathon route also runs right by Dunster, so it only seemed fitting.

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Leverett: “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by The Jackson 5

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Never underestimate the power of Lev towers. With a bird’s-eye view that extends quite far, one look out the window opens up all of Cambridge. Once, I saw one of my TFs on a run from that height, so yeah, the possibilities are endless. If you can spot that one kid you had section with freshman year from the window, I’m sure you can catch Santa Claus being a lover boy.

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Eliot: “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” by NYSYNC

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Tucked in a little cul-de-sac of the River Houses, Eliot and this song feel like a good way to round off the playlist. With the domus community as the life of the party, I believe they’d wish us all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays!

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All songs have their own vibe and spirit, but all contribute to the greater holiday joy that brings us together, just like all 12 houses of the student community. Happy holidays!

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Reading period has officially begun and finals are just a few days away, meaning the last-minute scramble to self-teach an entire course’s material is in full swing. The resident Lamonsters will be more stressed than ever, with more coming out of the shadows (or staying in them…) as the days until exams tick down. One may think that having no classes or club meetings during reading period would leave students feeling free and social, but in Harvard fashion, it is quite the opposite. Those texts you send to grab a meal at the dhall will begin to go unanswered as people fall deeper into the trenches. All in all, the days leading up to finals are some of the most stressful that a student will experience, thus why Flyby recommends the ultimate solution: channel your inner Chill Guy. At the end of the day, who doesn’t want to just be a chill guy who lowkey doesn’t gaf. We put together a few ways in which you can channel Chill Guy’s spirit during finals week.

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Don’t set alarms

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With no 9 a.m. Justice section to struggle to get to in the morning and no pressure to get an early morning workout in because of a packed schedule, let yourself sleep in before finals. Sleep is one of the most important, and most overlooked, ways to prepare yourself for an exam. You may be able to brag to your friends about pulling an all-nighter in Cabot, but showing up late or exhausted to an exam is not worth the trade-off. Chill Guy definitely is in touch with his circadian rhythm, letting his body get ample rest when needed. Do not let an alarm define you: just be a chill guy and wake up when your body wants to.

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Avoid over-studying

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Even though it may seem like it when talking to your most dedicated peers, studying is not a competition. For some, spending every waking hour reviewing notes might be what they require, but for most, a simple few-hour-a-day study plan is all you need. Unless you did not attend a single lecture this semester and now have the monumental task of going through 13 weeks of material in one, be a chill guy about your studying. Instead of logging dozens of pointless hours studying minute things, focus on what really matters and spend your new-found free time having some fun before flying home for winter break.

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Leave the Harvard bubble

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The week before finals can be an eerie and quiet time on campus, with people clocking whole days in your favorite study spots. To avoid wandering around the library for 20 minutes trying to find a free chair, head out to Boston for a day. Take a few friends and plan to camp out in a cute café on Newbury St. or spend a few hours in the beautiful Boston Public Library; anywhere that is away from campus. Leaving the bubble is a great way to remind yourself that you are more than just a studying robot, and it is important to experience life. Chill Guy is always out in nature, living his life, and just because it is finals week does not mean you can’t do the same.

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Good outfits, every day

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Chill Guy’s staple outfit is one of the key factors in his atmosphere of chillness. He starts his day knowing that he’ll have a good outfit and be confident in it. You, dear Flyby reader, should follow in his footsteps. Putting extra emphasis on having a good outfit for the day can make a world of difference in your productivity and mood. You know what they say: look good, feel good. Throw on your best sweater, jeans, and nice shoes combo to match Chill Guy, or explore your own rendition of his staple outfit. Studying all day can be strenuous and monotonous, little things like a good outfit can go a long way.

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Remember one exam won’t decide your entire future

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You have probably heard this one countless times, and Chill Guy would say it to you again. Finals are an important part of the college academic experience, but that does not mean every other aspect of your life has to go out the window until they are over. Find a good balance of fun and locking in, preparing for a final does not have to be a hellish task. As long as you do your best, that is all anyone can ask of themselves. Contrary to the probable belief of freshmen in Math 55a, your final exams do not define you as a person. What you will be known for, though, is if you were a chill guy.

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No matter who you talk to about finals, you will likely get the same response: that we are all stressed together. Even though it is tempting to sign your life away to the library for the week leading up to exams, that is the worst way to go about it. Instead, take Flyby’s expert advice and channel that inner Chill Guy. Make finals week a fun and productive time – the goal of college for most. Lowkey, don’t gaf!

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{shortcode-ee5dc1574eef61a854937f1dcab531b3cd8424b7}Winter break is fast approaching, and reading period is here. With all of this extra time on your hands, you can’t help but ponder how on earth you are going to get through another holiday season single — what, who said that? I mean, how will you create the best study plan to ace your finals? Take this quiz to find out how well (or not) you will do on your finals this semester, based on how you plan on spending your reading period!

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What do you anticipate your sleeping habits to be like during reading period?

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a. Sleep? Never heard of her. I’ll be too busy studying.

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b. I’ll be getting my full 8 hours!

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c. With these back-to-back formals, I’ll be sleeping until 4 p.m. every day.

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Have you started studying for your finals?

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a. Absolutely — I’ve already reviewed all my lectures from the semester and have made 10 study guides.

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b. Not yet, but I’ve mapped out my study plan!

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c. I still have a week — what’s the rush?

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Your friend asks you to go on a day trip into Boston during reading period. What do you say?

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a. Politely decline. There’s way too much studying to do.

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b. Sure! I need a study break anyway.

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c. Let’s go to NYC instead. I’ve been to Boston three times this week already.

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What is your go-to beverage this reading period?

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a. Shots of straight espresso. How else are you going to fuel your brain for the long study hours ahead of you?

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b. Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte. Gotta get into the festive spirit! (I complain about being broke 24/7 then proceed to spend $7 on a coffee every day.)

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c. Shots of straight tequila. On a side note, who wants to pregame their Chem 17 final with me?! (I’m joking… maybe.)

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Who was your Spotify Wrapped top artist this year?

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a. Mozart: I’m on my dark academia study grind, and I have no social life!

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b. Taylor Swift: I feel like there doesn’t need to be anything more said about this one.

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c. Pitbull: The party lifestyle never stops.

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What are your plans for the winter break?

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a. Get ahead on my work for next semester by reading the syllabi and doing my course readings!

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b. Binge-watch a new Netflix series.

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c. I’m going on a four-week backpacking trip across Europe with my friends.

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Results:

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Mostly A’s: Nervous about your finals? Don’t be. You have nothing to worry about. The finals should fear you instead. (Also, please consider getting some therapy.)

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Mostly B’s: You’re going to knock your finals out of the park! You have a great balance between your work and social life, and you will kill it!

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Mostly C’s: It’s OK, we can’t be good at everything. After getting your grades back, you might consider extending your Europe backpacking trip! Who needs a degree anyways?

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