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{shortcode-535d873455f6d0ff0505601d7b38855e913777b6}Hello Harvard! My name is Maya, and I’m perfect. I hear a lot of you have been overwhelmed lately, and while I can’t relate to literally anything you’re going through, a lot of you have been asking what it’s like to be thriving, happy, and gorgeous every single day. Honestly, I’m really glad you asked. Growing up, I always felt like we didn’t have enough perfect role models to look up to. I want to change that. I think it’s really important to recognize that while some of us suffer from stress or anxiety, others of us suffer from success, and that’s okay, too. I just thought I would share a day in the life of the perfect Harvard student as a reminder that perfect people do exist, and we deserve to be seen and heard!

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6:30 a.m.: I wake up to my alarm. The tone plays only once, for one second, because I wake up at the very first ring.

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6:45 a.m.: I wear my clothes that were laid out the night before.

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6:47 a.m.: I take the dentist’s recommended two minutes to brush my teeth. I don’t get to have a skincare routine like you all do. Unfortunately, since I’ve never been stressed, I have perfect skin and hair every single day.

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7:00 a.m.: I walk into Lowell House dhall, where I make the difficult choice of choosing which one of my multiple friend groups I will sit with. Ultimately, I decide to split time between all seven groups, who equally demand my attention.

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7:15 a.m.: As I eat my well-balanced, nutritious meal, I get a “good morning my sunshine pookie bear” text from my 6’ 11”, basketball player boyfriend who is also a Rhodes Scholar. I don’t text him back, because he’s just another 6’ 11” athlete boy I’ll date for like a summer and leave when I’m bored. If I ever got bored. Which I don’t.

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7:30 a.m.: I go for a light, ten mile sprint around the Charles, avoiding the track coach who waits there every morning to try and recruit me for the team. People often ask how I have run ten miles for the last seven years without skipping a day. It’s simple: perseverance!

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8:30 a.m.: After showering in my spotless communal bathroom, I blow dry my hair in my 250-square-foot single.

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9:00 a.m.: I show up to my nine a.m. lecture, for which I have read every single reading, taken notes, and remembered the key points for at least one day in advance. I raise my hand no less than seven times and get called on each time to give a thoughtful response which incorporates my own opinions backed by several pieces of evidence from the readings and lectures, cited appropriately.

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10:15 a.m.: I decided to enjoy the sunshine until lunch. Me and my multicultural group of friends sit on the grass in the Yard and talk about social issues, life goals, and our friendship. We’re all wearing Harvard gear, representing our pride in the school and the community we share. This is all captured beautifully in a candid, laughing photo taken by Dean Khurana.

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12:00 p.m.: My boyfriend buys me food, and we share it on the steps of Widener. We walk back to Lowell, hand-in-hand, discussing our future and feminist ideals.

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1:30 p.m.: I go to my second class of the day, where I piggyback off of four ideas and raise my hand thirty seconds before class ends so I can keep everyone an extra ten minutes while I share a vaguely related anecdote.

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3:00 p.m.: I meet with my academic advisor. Once I clearly lay out my visions and goals, she tells me clear steps on how to organize my remaining semesters to achieve them. I’ve learned that help will always be given at Harvard to those who ask for it.

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4:00 p.m.: I call my mom and dad, who are extremely supportive of my philosophy concentration. They encourage me to take a semester off and travel through Europe so I can discover who I really am. They also inquire about my boyfriend, who they consider family at this point.

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5:00 p.m.: I go to my first club meeting of the day. I’m the president of four large clubs, so I stack the meetings back to back. (A lot of you have been asking how I manage so much, and my best advice is to try harder.)

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9:00 p.m.: Because I finish my psets and assignments ahead of time each week, I go out nearly every day. I get ready with the girls, taking deep breaths as I turn down most of the invites on my phone. I hate disappointing any one of my hundreds of friends!

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10:30 p.m.: Me and the girls get several perfectly posed photos for the Instagram story, hinting obviously that we’re in a final club without overtly specifying which one, although you can tell by the brick wall and the blurry guy walking in the back wearing a tie with the club insignia.

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11:59 p.m.: I head back to Lowell to get just seven hours of sleep before my busy day tomorrow!

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And just like that, I’ve survived another day of perfection. For those of you that are tired of being ugly and lonely, I highly recommend 1) doing better 2) improving and 3) succeeding if you’re looking for a place to start your journey. It’s really hard, and this life is definitely not as easy as it looks, but I highly encourage you to believe in yourself. You’re the only one who will!

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{shortcode-c144912759fb84a47e82ca4a6c560e1481446980}Sweet treats are a necessary part of life, throughout the good, the bad, and the in-between.

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Midterm went terribly? Sweet treat.

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You secured a thesis advisor? Sweet treat.

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You had a really mediocre date? Sweet treat.

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No matter the occasion, you always deserve a sweet treat. Here’s a little guide to finding a sweet treat for every mood, from yours truly. All of these places are in Harvard square or nearby, so you’ll never have to look too far ;)

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Feeling like romanticizing your life? Give an arm and a leg for L.A. Burdick's hot chocolate.

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Yes, I know it’s almost $7. But can you tell me it’s not worth it? No. Especially on a chilly day, this purely melted chocolate bar is life changing. But you can’t go wrong – if the cookie or some other chocolate delight calls your name, be my guest. I promise you’ll leave feeling like Rory Gilmore, ready to tackle whatever’s on your plate.

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Feeling down in the dumps? Stop by Union Square Donuts.

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I don’t have much rhyme or reason to this one. All I know is that one time I got rejected from not one, not two, but THREE jobs in one day, so I knew I definitely deserved a pick-me-up. Union Square Donuts just happened to be close by, but boy did it do the trick. That Boston Cream Donut really empathized with my rejection and put a smile on my taste buds, even if I was not.

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Feeling sleepy? Grab a latte with any type of sweetener.

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Sorry, I know this is unoriginal. We all know the cure for the ceaseless yawns is simply caffeine. But… don’t be too hard on yourself and get drip coffee (icky) or even Cold Brew (too harsh). That’s why a sweetened latte is perfect – gives the caffeine kick, but is still cute and YUMMY.

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I’m not even going to tell you where to get your latte from, because Harvard Square abounds with coffee shops, and most of them are pretty good. A notable mention, though, is Pavement’s Maple Latte.

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Feeling like you’re on top of the world? Head to Lizzy’s.

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I think this is the most underrated ice cream in the square. It’s WAY cheaper than J.P. Licks or Amorino, far away from the clamoring tourists, and you get way more bang for your buck. On top of that, the ice cream flavors are simply. So. Good. If you’re already having an amazing day, why not make it even better with some really good ice cream and a really good deal?

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Feeling ravenous for a late-night snack? Chip City.

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Wow, am I glad Chip City just opened in the Square. Craving an ooey-gooey classic chocolate chip cookie to fuel you for a long night in Lamonts ? Look no further. Insomnia also suffices, but I find their cookies a bit wimpy in comparison to Chip City

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And there you have it. Happy munching!

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{shortcode-35f05e56c9cbd55008999c7938942b3281d23f6b}

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Dean of Students Thomas Dunne said a few days ago that we would have a Harvard-Yale tailgate “that is attractive to students and fun and feels like what they imagined Harvard-Yale to be, but it’s also safe.” Well, Flyby Blog has the scoop and he’s right! Here’s a look inside what this attractive tailgate will be like:

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Food: Grape Pizza for All

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We must share the experience that put HUDS on the map. Yale won’t be so smug about their “gourmet food” now.

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Drinks: You Think It Is Diet Coke But When You Press The Thing It’s Gross Sparkling Water Without Any Syrup In It

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Aw, man! It’s almost as disappointing as the game against Brown.

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Tents

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Silly students, tents are for camping, and that’s not allowed. What do you mean, it’s daytime? Look at the campus use rules!

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Alcohol!

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Hahahahahahahahahahahaha just kidding. If you’re really looking for a buzz, just save all the toppings from your pizza and wait. A few years should do the trick.

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Location

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You will need to swipe three times to get in. And no, it’s not a tap. A swipe. Then it will be a field with no cars in sight.

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Decorations

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Not chalk, that’s for sure.

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Who

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Any student (admission fee: $0) or alum (admission fee: $151 million).

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Special Guests

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Zuck is coming… and what’s this? He’s the linebacker?!

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Sponsors

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Truly Seltzer. (Come on, it’s literally veritas. How has this not happened?) Also Ken Griffin.

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When

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Right now! You’re missing it!

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So get excited! See you on the field!

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{shortcode-4fb45c062c095d7f6420b7480f1f7e1c5cefe414}

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In case you didn’t receive a million emails about it, let us remind you: this weekend is Head of the Charles. In other words, 200,000 people will descend upon the Charles River to watch a bunch of high schoolers and college students, and professionals row row row their boats. Chaos will reign and Satan will be nigh. And by Satan we mean a lot of Vineyard Vines shorts. The only way to prepare is to prepare for the worst. Here’s how to get ready for the zombie apocalypse: a.k.a. Head of the Charles.

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Gather Provisions

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If you think you will need anything other than dhall food this weekend, get it now: stores will be swamped. Nowhere is safe. Hordes of scarf-wearing blonde women and the skinniest teenagers you’ve ever seen will cram the aisles of all retail establishments, leaving you no choice but to fight until you’re begging for surrender. Pick up your prescription now, not later.

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Figure Out Who You Can Trust

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High schoolers and people from lamer colleges than ours will be trying to force their way into any party happening between Friday and Sunday. If you and more than one friend are hanging out, they’ll be banging down the doors, begging for drinks instead of brains. Don’t let them win! Keep gatherings ~intimate~ and/or ~guarded~.

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Go on Group Raids

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Brands like to give out free stuff during Head of the Charles. You can take advantage of this if you have a strategy and an escape plan. Get in and get out; don’t get distracted by the action or mowed down by the swarms of people. Only examine your spoils once back in the safety of your dorm.

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Find High Ground

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If you want to watch the regatta, it’ll be difficult to see anything from the banks of the river unless you get there first thing in the morning. Luckily, dorms with river views have a great vantage point. Find a friend and post up in their common room. But don’t let anyone see you! (See point 2.)

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Don’t Try to Rationalize What’s Happening

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It’s actually scientifically impossible to understand how a regatta works, so don’t try. “It’s just a race,” you say. To which we say, “did you know they all start at different times?” How many miles is it? How many people are in a boat? Why is coxswain pronounced like that? Trying to comprehend what’s happening wastes valuable energy you could be spending cowering in fear.

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With these tips, you’ll be ready to survive the scariest weekend of the semester yet. But don’t get too comfortable: next weekend is Family Weekend…

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{shortcode-255ec29c0df41381c73b294666ea20d9e035822f}

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The Harvard admissions pamphlet told me a lot about all of the incredible opportunities for enrichment and success I would have here. What it forgot to mention was that there are even more chances for humiliation. One can experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows all in the same day at this prestigious university, so I decided to create a guide to get the most bang for your buck, and maximize your ego deflation. Without further ado, here’s six things you can do to get thoroughly humbled at Harvard:

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1. Getting mistaken for a tourist

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Undoubtedly, every Harvard student’s greatest fear is being mistaken for a tourist. As we wade through swarms of eager tourists in front of Widener Library or the John Harvard statue, it’s easy to evade accusations as long as you have the telltale signs of a student — a backpack and a purpose. However, in the rare moments that you are without your shields, the risk sets in. Especially when you’re caught in a moment of weakness, like Google mapping your way somewhere, you have to be vigilant about not blending in with the tour in front of you.

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2. Almost getting hit by a scooter… or actually getting hit

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As “Top Gun” says… Highway to the danger zone. There is a certifiable danger any time you leave your dorm, but you need to exercise extreme caution on the crowded yet not-wide-enough paths of Harvard Yard. Nothing brings you back down to earth better than a near collision with a defensive lineman on a scooter going 45 mph, but actually getting hit? Transfer. I promise that the money you spend on medical bills will not be worth the two seconds you saved not looking both ways when you cross.

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3. Being seen at any Harvard party

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As Harvard students, it’s almost an inevitability that you will attend a party bad enough that you consider abstaining from all nightlife. The worst part of the experience isn’t the trek to and from the basement of an upperclassmen House (or worse, a freshman dorm), it’s when your presence is noted. It’s sobering — literally — to see someone from your Justice section in the crowd of a poorly lit, poorly ventilated ‘party’, but it’s even worse when you are forced to relive it at 9 a.m. the next day.

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4. Shuffling through desks after being late

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Arriving to class on Harvard time (two to three minutes late) is nothing short of humiliating. It may be a standard college experience, but something about ‘excuse me’-ing and ‘I’m sorry’-ing your way through the packed seats of Sanders Theater triggers your fight or flight response. Not only do you feel the judgment and scorn from your punctual peers, but you also have to bear the weight of being an actual nuisance to everyone in your vicinity. At least you're not alone: there will always be someone later than you.

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5. “Fake” IDs

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The great equalizer on campus should be that we all have IDs (preventative measures for no. 1), but unfortunately this isn’t always the case. Our Harvard IDs, or rather, the scanners, have a tendency to stall at the most inopportune moments. Sometimes, it’s just when your hands are full and you realize you’re holding up a train of people, or when you’re called back because your swipe didn’t go through in the dining hall — embarrassing, but you’re not to blame. However, in the moment when you’re looking the cashier in the eye after your Board Plus declines for the second time, you should feel the weight of responsibility, and the burn of shame.

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6. Getting kicked out of the library

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Harvard students bring this upon ourselves, since only we would stay in a library to the last possible minute. That being said, a security guard forcing you to leave the building where you’ve practically built an ecosystem is not the most pleasant experience. It isn’t just frantically gathering your belongings and starting the walk of shame that does it, it’s also the knowledge that because the library’s closing, it’s likely a weekend, and this is the best thing you had to do. The first time, it's cute — you’re a dedicated student. After that… find some hobbies.

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This list may seem daunting, and you may wonder if your self confidence can handle any one of these experiences. Don’t worry, you can! In fact, you probably will check every single one of these off before your 10:30 a.m. class in one day. If you’re still recovering, look at the bright side — any one of these will make a great topic of conversation for your debrief at dinner. And if you still need something to make you feel better, think about how much worse it could be: any of these could have happened to you in New Haven.

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{shortcode-56b0a16203c3bed4c15ccf5a5689ef75ecb9b0ef}

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Under most metrics, I wouldn’t consider myself an out-of-control spender. Or even a slightly extravagant one. I probably spend money only about twice a week on average: once every week or two weeks to feed the beast (read: my perpetual but often starved Jefe’s craving) and slightly more often to grab a quick meal via Board Plus (not real money) or one of the vending machines in the Science Center (Crimson Cash and therefore not real money).

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Still, even if I don’t spend often, every time I am forced to contend with the concept of money, I feel a little bit guilty. Campus and the Square are so, so expensive — and feel doubly so when I’ve left Massachusetts for a minute — so every expense feels like an extravagance… even when said extravagance is a single granola bar. Plus, most of my expenses feel like they could be avoided with slightly better planning (i.e. waking up five minutes earlier for dhall breakfast). So, in the spirit of self improvement and personal growth, I decided to try not spending anything for a week. (Let’s ignore the fact that I was informally dared to do so for the purpose of writing an article; this was totally an entirely personal decision made not for the purpose of cannibalizing my life for content.)

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Honestly, my week of no spend felt shockingly mundane. (Again, I don’t actually spend that much in a given week.) That’s not to say that it wasn’t a challenge, though, or that I didn’t miss the privilege of spending. The thrill of treating myself. The joy of tapping my card against a register. The dread of choosing a tip percentage based on a two-minute interaction. The freedom of choice, of spontaneity.

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Instead, I had the dubious pleasure of eating the same bagged lunch four days in a row — thank you, HUDS — a real throwback to freshman year when I didn’t rely on the Northwest Labs vending machines for 30 percent of my nutritional needs. I also felt eternally grateful to my clubs and part-time job for feeding me my weight in Frito-Lay products. I felt thankful to past me for having the foresight to leave just enough on my T pass to get me to lab and back (twice!). (Yes, this article has now turned into an acknowledgements section; do you have a problem with that?) I felt slightly less than ecstatic with Flyby (read: my own, very hastily made decisions) for forcing me to avoid a boba outing with my friends.

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Small inconveniences aside, choosing not to spend anything for a week was not as tortuous as I’d expected. It probably saved me about $12 max, most of which I spent within the following week out of sheer spite. I suppose it never hurts to reign in your spending, but there’s no sense in overthinking it; unless you’re embarking on multiple shopping sprees a month, I doubt your personal spending choices are less economical than purchasing the random textbooks on your syllabi. Winning the no-spend challenge shouldn’t come at the expense of the freedom to live your life as you please. Plus, if you switch up your spending habits too quickly, your credit card company might suspect fraud, and that sounds like more trouble than it’s worth.

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{shortcode-e0d91d10163b25682059164f2107fc732932ddd1}Love it

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Convenience, speed, and cost-effectiveness. I am obsessed with Blank Street's caffeine and business model. I never have to wait more than 5 minutes for my order, even on the busiest weekdays, and I am always greeted with a kind smile by the baristas.

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Why do the baristas know my name, you may ask? Because I am constantly in and out of their shop, getting the most out of my subscription. It eliminates my need to decide if I want to spend five dollars on coffee that day because I already paid for my consumption of coffee that week, and by unit, each cup only costs me a little over a dollar. As an economics major, I can confirm that this is a good deal in the tragic economy we are all living in.

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Also, paying a dollar per coffee means that I can justify trying new flavors I might not like. Although I love most of the flavors, the strawberry and cream iced latte is forever calling my name. This perk has also encouraged me to shift from my typical caffeine choices and try healthier options like tea or matcha.

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Blank Street: please never close. I just won’t be able to get over you.

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Hate it

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Listen, when I say hate it, I don't actually hate Blank Street. I hate that I don't understand. I don't understand how almost every other week, I walk down Mass Ave and see a sign for a new promotion where I can get a coffee for a fraction of its normal price. I don't understand how almost all of my peers can pay $20 upfront and get practically as much coffee as they want for the week. How do you do it, Blank Street? What are you hiding?

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I do pop into Blank Street every once in a while to try the new seasonal flavors, I must admit. I am not above the fun flavors that they promote; I too, am interested in what watermelon matcha would taste like. But whenever I tap my card, I just feel skeptical. With all of these promotions, they’re obviously doing well enough not to need my money. Blank Street, where does it go?

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Maybe I am the one funding those “unlimited” coffees, or maybe there is more to the story. Or maybe I’m thinking too deeply about something that doesn’t matter. Either way, I don’t care. Coffee shouldn’t make me think this hard.

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Blank Street: You keep me on my toes. Let me off of them.

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{shortcode-583d698ddfcebc97a8736b033bee17840bbad16e}I cannot believe we’re in midterm season already. Suddenly the bright-eyed, optimistic version of me is long gone and has been replaced by a sleep-deprived, Celsius-addicted shell of a human being. My friends don’t know where I am or how I’m doing because I’m in my room 24/7, stuck in a loop of suffering through psets, studying for midterms, and taking naps that accidentally turn into 6 a.m. panics. So, I’ve come to the decision that I don’t only need to practice self-care, I deserve it. As someone who just came out of her midterm, here are some ways that I am practicing self-care (in the lone hour of free time I can afford), that you might be able to take inspiration from.

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Become a rock.

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If reincarnation is real, what would you reincarnate as? My answer is a rock. Lay down somewhere comfortable and just exist for a moment. Have no thoughts in that brain of yours (you’ve used it enough today) and no obligations for the next few minutes. Just imagine you are a rock, existing on the bank of the Charles, perhaps, and embody that energy.

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Embrace your inner yapper.

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Call your parents/friends/anyone who can listen to you complain, and just yap. Complain about anything and everything. Talk about the most random things. Get your brain off of academics, and do NOT talk about how you did in that midterm.

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A sweet treat can literally solve world peace.

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Not really, but it can fix the part of me that slightly died while I studied for this exam. Even science agrees with me. Did you know that carbohydrates stimulate serotonin release, which makes you feel happier?

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Take a walk.

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… to Cabot or Lamont Library and revel in the stress permeating through the air of people who still have a midterm (or midterms) left today. You are superior to them in every way.

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Ignore your problems

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Maybe the true act of self care is to simply… stop trying! Switch to pass-fail, drop out of that class, heck, drop out of school! The ultimate form of self-care is making rash decisions based on momentary peace and happiness. (For legal reasons, Flyby does not endorse recklessly dropping out and cannot take responsibility for any of these actions if you choose to participate in them.)

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Congrats on finishing that midterm (or paper, pset, whatever else you have going on). I’m proud of you for making it through another heinous week in this dreadful season of the semester that will only end once winter break rolls around. Stay hydrated, remember that the FDA advises that healthy adults only drink up to 400 mg of caffeine (two cans of Celsius, for reference), and good luck out there <3.

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('

{shortcode-9d5fc7bcef75f4b84070b1b63b5fc3f6af2d986d}Every season has its pros and cons, and both are never felt more than during the transition from one to another. So, as Harvard welcomes fall and says goodbye to summer, there are bound to be some growing pains for those of us on campus. My remedy for these pains is simple: picnics! They’re the perfect opportunity to soak in every last bit of sun and celebrate with your friends before rain and midterms drive them away. To make sure that you take advantage of every sunny day or over-70-degree hour, here are all the necessary details to plan your very own picnic — no planning on your part required!

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Location

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Clothes make the man, and an aesthetic setting makes the picnic! Luckily, we have an abundance of grassy areas around the Yard. Some of the most popular picnic spots are along the Charles River, near Dunster and Winthrop. Said location is great for its river scenery, convenience, and general Harvardness. Just grab a picnic blanket and pop a squat. Warning to those scared of bees though.

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Another alternative is the Harvard Business School! It’s a little more manicured and offers a ton of outdoor event-hosting spaces, including pavilions and sheltered outdoor seating areas, in case the weather turns sour. You can even take a turn in the greenhouse/chapel, although there isn’t any seating there.

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Last but not least, for those who are nature-averse or maybe just allergic: The balconies on the upper floors of the Science Center make a great outdoor gathering space. They’re located on every floor above the third and are outfitted with picnic tables and other seating. Plus, if you choose one on the fourth floor, you can even filch coffee from the Math Lounge!

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Food

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With the location set, the next most important factor of the picnic is the food. The most obvious and classic choice is Trader Joe’s. But even within Joe’s walls, there are many other sub-themes to choose from — I offer you three.

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The first is, as you might expect, charcuterie! Take the picnic as the perfect opportunity to try out the store's cheese and meat section. I promise you won’t regret it. To spice up the selection even more, I recommend something from the dried fruits section, like apricots, mangoes, or cranberries or even actual fruit! Grapes, strawberries, and cherries are always a crowd pleaser.

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The second theme is what I like to call bread and spread. Trader Joe’s offers a nice selection of bread, including sourdough, focaccia, and many other dessert breads. They also offer a ton of different spreads — do you see where I’m getting the theme name from — which you can mix and match to your preferences. I recommend the cocoa-almond spread and jams for those with sweet tooths and olive oil and balsamic vinegar for those who favor the savory.

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The third theme is similar to the previous one, but this time, it is called chips and dip! This theme focuses on the many types of hummus and dip that Ole’ Joe provides and people’s general love of chips and crackers. My favorite pairing is the spinach and artichoke dip with the Crunchy Curls! But, generally, following one’s heart will work out.

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The Invitation

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The last step to planning the picnic, the invitation, is often overlooked. However, there’s a subtle art form to inviting someone to your picnic. After all, the type and style of your invitation sets the tone of the gathering. Will it be casual? Boozy? Will it have a dress code? I recommend you hone the wording and graphics of your invitation to convey exactly the theme you want. I also recommend using tools like Partiful, which lets you stylize invitations in any way your heart desires. Plus, as opposed to group chats or individual text blasts, everyone can see who's coming and who’s not (very helpful to snoopers).

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And with that, I hope I’ve made your future picnic planning seamless and easy! Picnics are also just a nice excuse to catch up with friends, an activity always much needed during the hectic times of the semester. So grab your blanket and go!

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('

{shortcode-9f0d9e4ce43315b58ae008445fccb8520dbf8cc8}As fall quickly approaches and mindsets change from missing summer to counting the days until Thanksgiving break, I thought I would round up some common phrases you may start hearing around campus.

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1. “There's a mouse in my room!”

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Same!! There has been a mouse in our room for a week now. One of my roommates seems to really have a problem with it, but honestly, it's getting cold, and I don't really blame him.

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2. “Wow, this is miserable.”

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Are you referring to the spitting rain or the two-hour-long lecture you're about to sit through while completely drenched? Because I would have to agree on both fronts.

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3. “Where are all the people?” Said in reference to the dwindling in-person attendance of Ec 10a

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I have no idea, but I'm starting to think they know what’s up.

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4. “I'll meet you at 8 for breakfast before class, and we can do the reading together.”

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While in theory a very ‘college-y’ and wholesome idea, by the time we get to fall, the follow-through rate on plans like this begins to plummet. Sadly, tomorrow morning, your alarm is going to go off at 7:30, and you will then proceed to snooze it 20 times until suddenly it's 8:45, and there just isn't quite enough time to grab a Veritaffle before your 9 a.m.

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5. “Leafing”??

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Idk, the other day, I overheard someone say they wanted to go “leafing” in response to being asked about their favorite fall activity. I did everyone a favor and looked it up, and it's basically like going bird-watching but without the birds…

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6. “I'm so tired of Berg food.”

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This should serve as a warning to all of the upperclassmen out there; the freshmen are coming for your dining halls. Specifically those of you at Dunster — I fear you are at the highest risk. However, if you’re in the Quad, I think you’re good. That 17-minute trek is quite a turnoff.

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7. “Are you going to hit a brain break at some point?”

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Unfortunately, yes. It may be a Thursday night, but it's also one of the best bets for social interaction four weeks into freshman year.

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8. “Ugh, I've had the freshman flu for a week now.”

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I'm so sorry to hear that… Please scoot away from me now. Sanders during Justice is far too packed for you to disclose this. I am trapped with you and three old people (what are they even doing here, anyway?) between me and my escape from you and your illness.

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9. “I'm so excited for Harvard-Yale!”

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Considering half of my friends applied early to Yale (and are now attending various other universities…you can connect those dots), I'm extremely excited to support the revenge effort and also to experience what I have been told is the best weekend of freshman year!

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10. “I have midterms next week.”

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How is that possible? We literally got here a week ago.

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But newsflash, you didn't. It has actually been over a month, and now fall is here (whether we like it or not), and you need to be ready! I hope these phrases were as relatable as I hoped they would be; or conversely, if you haven't heard any of them because you are never caught without your AirPods in, I hope you feel all caught up on the season's chatter.

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('

{shortcode-67d69789945d07c8478b67c89dbcdd51b8477190}Harvard websites: love them or hate them, you have to use them. Unless you plan to enroll in only MIT classes and hack the laundry machines (which, for the record, Flyby does not condone), Crimson Cash and my.harvard are unavoidable parts of the college experience. For a school with a computer science professor on the payroll for over a million a year, we do not seem to have the website area smoothed out. Read on to count down Harvard’s clunkiest websites, and maybe find one to redo for your CS50 final project (I’m begging, please!).

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4. Harvard Syllabus Explorer

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{shortcode-c86fa45f9299dc19492cb69b8c7927bea0b41a5a}

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Have you ever wondered if you could take a class about a really specific topic? Maybe you were looking for an English class that could justify your purchase of the new Sally Rooney book, a class where you can learn to paint, or a class that talks about memes? Well, the Harvard Syllabus Explorer should be the right place for you… except for the fact that syllabi are often missing, classes don’t always show up properly, and the information you can find is frequently out of date. At the same time, this website has so much wasted potential, so I’m placing it 4th.

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3. HUHS Patient Portal

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{shortcode-ff8ec58e967a4269dd35e60c6415cfaedcb2c721}

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Whether dying of strep throat, booking a flu shot, or trying to upload all your vaccine information before freshman year so you can actually register for class, the HUHS patient portal is always an unpleasant experience. Coupling that with the fact that if you make a mistake filling out the intake form, it makes you go all the way back to the start, the HUHS website could definitely use some revamping.

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2. Crimson Cash E-Accounts Portal
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This website looks supremely unofficial. It is not a place I visit for fun but only against my will when I try to do laundry and my card comes up short. Filled with anger for a college this expensive charging even more for laundry, this website will not be missed when Crimson Cash is fully phased out. If you’re looking for something scary this spooky season, this website could be for you. Every time I use it, I’m frightened that my credit card information is about to be stolen!

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1. my.harvard

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{shortcode-2734efe9d2342725b5a977bf2fd8f5d730cddbcd}

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As a supremely indecisive liberal arts college student, I have a very love-hate relationship with my.harvard. For a site that serves so many important uses, I do not understand why I have to erase my browser history once a week to be able to log in. At the same time, I love browsing random classes and creating 10 different semester schedules, so at least I’ll be ready when Crimson Carts open on OCTOBER 23????

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Despite my daily grievances against these websites, hating my.harvard might be the most unifying take one can have on this campus. So maybe it’s not about the classes you sign up for, the medical appointments you make, or the money you waste on laundry but the friends you make along the way by complaining about the unnecessary difficulty of these tasks.

', [ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-67d69789945d07c8478b67c89dbcdd51b8477190}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/07/002331_1373337.png.1500x718_q95_crop-smart_upscale.png', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption=None, hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-c86fa45f9299dc19492cb69b8c7927bea0b41a5a}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/07/002805_1373339.png.1500x253_q95_crop-smart_upscale.png', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='Rank 4: Syllabus Explorer', hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-ff8ec58e967a4269dd35e60c6415cfaedcb2c721}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/07/002852_1373340.png.1500x630_q95_crop-smart_upscale.png', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='Rank 3: HUHS Patient Portal', hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-9f901ada36d46bb31b4a5c89c3219e28da536431}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/07/002934_1373341.png.1500x661_q95_crop-smart_upscale.jpg', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='Rank 2: Crimson Cash', hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-2734efe9d2342725b5a977bf2fd8f5d730cddbcd}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/07/003015_1373342.png.1500x687_q95_crop-smart_upscale.png', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='The Winner… my.harvard', hovertext=None, contributors=]>)])

('

{shortcode-aa8792503795c0403bd64be985138438bdb2e67d}

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With all the Mexican food options in Harvard Square, it can be difficult to stand out (especially when you occupy the same space that Jefe’s did, even if it’s been two years). Despite the competition, Tenoch Mexican has broken the mold with their vintage-inspired interior, unique menu offerings, and friendly environment.

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Right as we entered Tenoch, Alvaro, who co-owns the local chain with his brother, warmly welcomed us at the door and offered his personal recommendations. From the get-go, we noticed the rustic vibes and the accents of red that gave the restaurant a casual, almost nostalgic feel. It felt a little empty, but understandably so, as they just recently held their grand opening. We also walked in right as their business day began – 11 a.m., bright and early.

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{shortcode-22d5385208da974ea31cedb92aec388f62cc8895}

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Following Alvaro’s recommendations, we ordered the torta campechana — a mix of chorizo and carnitas — alongside one taco pollo con queso, one taco asada con queso, and a Jarritos (pineapple flavor) to wash it all down. The tortas are one of Tenoch’s specialties, as none of the other Mexican restaurants in Harvard Square offer them. And… look at the portion sizes! While the tacos were of standard size, the tortas were definitely large enough to share, and we felt more than satisfied after our meal.

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But now for what you’re actually here for. How’s the food? Across the board, the meat was well seasoned and tender, especially the chicken. The tacos were rather cheesy, which is good for the cheese-lover, but it might be a little too cheesy for the average person. Still, they were solid. The star, however, was definitely the torta campechana. First off, it came with guac with no additional charge, so that’s already a plus. Second, it came with a salsa that had a slightly fruity undertone which added a nice brightness to the torta. Third, the combination of the meat, vegetables, and sauces created a satisfying and hearty meal that satisfied a craving we didn’t even know we had. All in all, while the tacos were enjoyable, we recommend trying the tortas, especially since they aren’t available at the other Mexican spots near campus.

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{shortcode-9f87f935259af687a051a012ba4497f769dbdb4f}

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The cherry on top of our fulfilling meal was the lovely conversation we had with Alvaro. He made sure we enjoyed the food and filled us in on the different Tenoch locations (Their Harvard Square location is one of seven different restaurants!) and his goal to bring authentic Mexican cuisine to his customers. They also have three food trucks, one of which can be found in the Science Center Plaza. Alvaro also pointed us to the Tacografía map which not only adds an artistic touch to the entrance, but also provides an overview of the variety of dishes unique to the different cities of Mexico.

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{shortcode-9197477c1f9e096006e5e46137397d6923bbb20b}

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If our review has convinced you to give Tenoch a try, keep an eye out for their taco stand during Oktoberfest on Sunday!

', [ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-aa8792503795c0403bd64be985138438bdb2e67d}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/03/221035_1373272.png.1500x1120_q95_crop-smart_upscale.jpg', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='large', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption=None, hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-22d5385208da974ea31cedb92aec388f62cc8895}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/03/220853_1373271.png.1500x1120_q95_crop-smart_upscale.jpg', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='medium', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption="We enjoyed the retro vibes of Tenoch's interior.", hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-9f87f935259af687a051a012ba4497f769dbdb4f}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/03/220726_1373270.png.1500x1117_q95_crop-smart_upscale.jpg', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='medium', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='Our tacos and torta were both delectable!', hovertext=None, contributors=]>), ShortcodeImageGQL(key='{shortcode-9197477c1f9e096006e5e46137397d6923bbb20b}', image_url='https://s3.amazonaws.com/thumbnails.thecrimson.com/photos/2024/10/03/220536_1373269.png.1500x1127_q95_crop-smart_upscale.jpg', nofilm=False, pos='center', size='medium', byline=True, quote=False, quotebyline=False, theme='light', caption='The Tacografía map shows different dishes from around Mexico.', hovertext=None, contributors=]>)])

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{shortcode-31522f0efbae8b5aea1aeaeff9bf54ae727b1b53}

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Did you pick your fall schedule to minimize 9 a.m.’s and now are in class nonstop from 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.? Are you so crushed by psets that you can’t fit in a break in the middle of your day to eat? Are you scarfing down a bland FlyBy sandwich every day, thinking to yourself, “there must be a better way for me to eat?” If so, this article is for you. Read on to find tips on how to not starve until dinner.

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1. Berg

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If you are a freshman, my advice is don’t go to FlyBy. Instead, sneak out of your class early and get takeout from Annenberg. You can easily pass through in five minutes or less and will get way more options than FlyBy. Upperclassmen will be grateful for a shorter line, and you won’t have to eat the same tomato mozzarella wrap and chili every day.

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2. FlyBy combos

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If you are tired of FlyBy, try combining food items in interesting ways to spice up the boring soup and sandwich options. My personal favorite is mixing pretzels, Oreos, and yogurt together. I don’t have a name for this, but the sweet/salty/tangy mix is delicious and keeps life interesting.

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3. Bagged lunch

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If you read my last point and thought to yourself, “I don’t have time for FlyBy” — maybe you have to run from Barker to Northwest (a trek Google Maps says takes 14 minutes) — fear not, for I have a solution for you! Order bagged lunch here and pick it up on your way out in the morning. You get the same foods as FlyBy without the wait!

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4. Skip class

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For any admin reading, we at Flyby do not condone not going to school. Okay, but actually, if your class is recorded and attendance is optional… maybe just don’t go. Lunch is a great time to socialize with friends, take a break from a busy day, and relax for a moment until you go back to the pset grind. If you watch the lecture at 2x speed you will save 37.5 minutes: plenty of time to indulge in delicacies like curly fries and grape pizza.

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5. Ditch your friends

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If you are reading this article and you “have time for lunch” (as in no class) but don’t *have* time for lunch (maybe your sophomore fall schedule is demolishing you), consider eating alone while watching that lecture you skipped on 2x speed. Although it is great to catch up with friends, grabbing a quick meal can easily turn into an hour-long ordeal; instead, really maximize your time by just doing more school!

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With Crimson Carts opening in less than a month (it feels like we are always in course registration at this school), keep these tips in mind to remind yourself not to pick that 9 a.m. Math 21A section and instead, let yourself sleep in and eat lunch quickly the Flyby way (not the FlyBy way).

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{shortcode-0cd17c2f4f76230fa2c976d33c76b495051f6502}

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By: Mark Suckerberg, Mosquito

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Let’s just cut to the chase: this was my room first. Believe it or not, my family has a long history at Harvard. My ancestors? They bit John F. Kennedy’s left arm back in the day. My cousins? Penthouse in Dean Khurana’s kitchen cabinet. And you thought you were a legacy kid. Just because you show up here with your Harvard pennant, Target twin XL bed sheets and a Polaroid of your blockmates you’ll inevitably fall out with does not make you the owner of this place. Far from it, actually.

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I feel like it’s time to set some boundaries. First of all, the whole swatting and throwing things has to stop. It’s invasive of my personal space. Whatever happened to hello? How are you? My name is? Instead you go straight to the slapping and screaming profanity. Rude.

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Oh, and while we’re at it, I feel like you ignore me sometimes. I swear you don’t pay any attention to me when I’m speaking until I’m literally screaming in your ear. Then it’s all “god, the buzzing!” Which, by the way, isn’t the preferred term anymore. It’s generally referred to as “aerodynamic vocalization,” thank you very much.

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You humans are all about “using your resources” and “networking,” but when I want to feast on the third guy you brought home this week, suddenly it’s all “respect my space” and “leave me alone." Like sorry for thinking he’s a snack, too. You’re out here climbing the social ladder, and I’m here trying to feast on it. Let’s not pretend we’re so different, babe.

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Speaking of relationships, what ever happened to being a girl’s girl? I finally got the courage to invite my girl Beeyoncé home and you go beat her up. Literally. With a shoe. Don’t take this the wrong way, but I think you’re kind of being a buzzkill. I understand I forgot to ask you before inviting her over, but considering your track record, I figured you’d get it.

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Honestly, I could have taken this up with the resident dean but I just feel like Harvard has been generally discriminatory against those with my background. So, I hope you don’t mind me airing our dirty laundry. If you want to talk about this, you know where to find me.

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{shortcode-180dec32179b2f7b03a8f2f48e42ab47a3b12b19}

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Throwback to August: You open Sidechat and it seems like every other sophomore has their housing assignment. Winthrop, Cabot, Eliot, but where’s Pfoho? Finally, it drops and you read…

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Cronkhite?!

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The name itself evokes … well not much, actually. I’d heard of its existence only a month before. A wretched place where a sophomore’s social life dies. Besides that, Cronkhite is one of the various Harvard mysteries… like… why was grape pizza ever made? Where is Remy (No, seriously I haven’t seen him)? But the most important one being: Where the pf*** is it?

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So what is Cronkhite?

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If you haven’t wandered far from the Square (and let’s be honest, most of us haven’t), Cronkhite is near the Radcliffe Yard. It’s actually tucked away on the second and third floor of Harvard’s Admission and Financial Aid Office. So, technically, you’ve probably been near it, but you probably didn’t know. And let’s be honest, were you really paying attention while begging for more financial aid? Since the pandemic, it’s been housing undergrad quad overflow. I mean, after all, what’s worse than being quadded? Being quadded from the quad. Cronkhite remains the Bermuda Triangle of housing. It’s just… there.

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Food? Where Art Thou?

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One of Cronkhite’s rudest moves? No dhall. That’s right. You’re stranded in the far reaches of, well, nowhere with no means of nourishment. Your only choice? Walking to the nearest dining hall because not even the shuttles stop here. The only upside is we do have swipe access to every upperclassman dining hall. But imagine walking back from a long day, only to realize your nearest dining option is a solid 10-15 minute walk away (guys, I’m only 4’10”... it takes me a bit longer to walk everywhere). Cronkhite: where the hunger games are real.

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Is Anyone Even Here?

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The vibe can be best compared to a Harvard football game. You know people should be there, but they usually aren’t. It’s technically home to the overflow from the Quad – Cabot, Currier, and my beloved (?) Pfoho – but honestly, it feels like I’m living in a mystery novel where the main plot is: Where is everybody? Because I rarely run into anyone, and when I do, it’s like spotting a rare species in the wild. We don’t talk, we don’t interact, we just exchange awkward eye contact like, “Ah, you too, huh?” It’s truly sad. I have lived here a month now and can’t tell you the names of a single person around me. It’s not that the place is un-pfriendly, it’s just that we all head to our over 110 square feet singles to continue the isolating culture of Cronkhite.

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The worst part of being housed in Cronkhite? Probably the fact that we are, supposedly, the last undergraduates to live there. Once the Class of 2025 graduates, there shouldn’t be a need for overflow. Fortunately for everyone else, and unfortunately for me, no one will understand my frustrations with Cronk.

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“This is going to be my year,” we all say in unison at the start of each semester.

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But then, on the first day of class, we’re all somehow already three lectures behind and locked in Lamont. Since when were there readings I needed to do before section? Why is there a pset 0?

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The transition from summer to fall feels like getting the wind knocked out of you. No, like literally — from the 50 mph Cambridge wind when you walk towards the Science Center. But let’s wind down for a bit amidst the psets and readings you’re drowning in and wind back to the summer and transition into the fall.

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Summer: Waking up early for research or an internship you’re actually interested in.

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Fall: Dragging yourself out of bed and getting ready in five minutes before class.

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Tell me why I eagerly jumped out of bed this summer, but now, no matter how many hours of sleep I get, I’m still tired. Why do I need to go to classes when I can do the job I want to do and get real-world experience?

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Summer: Studying abroad and traveling.

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Fall: Traveling around Widener or Lamont to find a study spot.

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I guess we’re all locked in already. Took me 20 minutes to walk around Lamont to find a spot when I could have spent that time working on my pset…

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Summer: Getting a tan (or whatever).

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Fall: Getting sick.

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Oh… you thought you were sick of working on that Stat 110 p-set or re-reading that same line for your gen ed readings for the past 10 minutes, huh? Well, now you are actually sick. You can’t escape the college sniffles and coughs metaphorically — and physically — speaking, unfortunately.

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Summer: Lounging in the hammocks or playing spike ball in the Yard.

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Fall: Sprinting to classes and arriving at the section sopping wet from the rain.

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Too bad we can’t bring the hammocks inside or use them as makeshift raincoats… Actually, that would be a bad idea. Just be sure to have two back-up umbrellas just in case one breaks from the horrendous wind.

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Summer: Exploring new restaurants with friends (when everyone actually has time).

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Fall: Eating HUDS food.

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Need I say more? And be prepared to spend all your BoardPlus in the first week of midterm season on cold brews from Cafe Gato Rojo or Buckmisters to try to stay awake during classes.

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Summer: Buying new clothes to upgrade your wardrobe.

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Fall: Struggling to find an empty washer and/or dryer on a Sunday night.

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Yeah… as much as you want to wear those new ripped jeans and Minecraft socks… can’t wear them if you can’t wash them… Don’t forget you’ll eventually resort to a sweatshirt and sweatpants (or even your pajamas) when the sun starts setting at 4:30 p.m. and the cold weather makes it impossible to get out of bed.

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Summer: Enjoying time with family and visiting relatives.

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Fall: Getting bombarded with emails.

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You will see your Gmail notifications more than your parent’s messages. You’ll also probably open Gmail more than your messages. Oh, did I mention you’ll see your Gmail inbox more than your reflection in the mirror?

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While the thought of dropping out constantly lingers in the back of our minds, summer went by in a blink of an eye, so fall semester probably will too (hopefully).

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