Category Archives: Off Campus

The Ultimate W&M Bucket List – 40 things to do before you graduate 

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The ultimate list of things to do before you graduate to make the most out of your free resources and the beauty of Williamsburg! 

  1. Explore all floors of Swem
  2. Pet a dog at the Williamsburg Farmers Market
  3. Attend a formal dance or event
  4. Pet the Swem Corgis 
  5. Study in the Wren Building 
  6. Attend a club meeting for something you know nothing about
  7. Walk around Second Sunday’s Market 
  8. Attend a Career Center networking event 
  9. Take a nap in the Swem nap pods 
  10. Attend a lecture or workshop outside of your major 
  11. Get a massage at the Wellness Center 
  12. Take a headshot in the Career Center headshot booth
  13. Study in the Alumni House during finals 
  14. Go for a late night snack at Wawa
  15. Try a fitness or wellness class
  16. Volunteer for a local charity
  17. Attend a football or basketball game 
  18. Go kayaking on Lake Matoaka 
  19. Discover your favorite pancake house
  20. Visit Busch Gardens 
  21. Attend an AMP event 
  22. Participate in a research project 
  23. Get a free collegiate pass for Colonial Williamsburg 
  24. Participate in a ghost tour
  25. Visit a professor during office hours 
  26. Have picnic on the Sunken Garden
  27. Take a class in the Wren Building 
  28. Go on a run through Colonial Williamsburg 
  29. Get a library card at the Williamsburg Library
  30. Swim in the pool at the rec 
  31. Make an ice cream sundae at Sadler 
  32. Attend a sunset yoga class
  33. Walk over Crim Dell Bridge with your significant other 
  34. Eat lunch at the Cheese Shop
  35. Listen to an a capella group perform at Wren 10
  36. Make an account on Tribe Careers
  37. Check out a book from Swem
  38. Take a late night walk through Colonial Williamsburg 
  39. Get ice cream or fudge at Kilwins 
  40. Spend the day at Yorktown or Jamestown beach

How to navigate the WATA bus system

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Did you know that the WATA bus transport system is free for William & Mary students? Show your William & Mary ID to the driver while boarding to ride any of the routes for free! There are 12 routes around the Williamsburg area. 

Route 1 – Lee Hall

Notable stops: Lee Hall and Transportation center

Route 2 – Richmond Rd

Notable stops: Walmart, One Tribe Place, Outlets 

Route 3 – Merrimac Trail

Notable stops: CW visitor center, Colonial pines, Merrimac trail CVS, Target

Route 4 – Longhill Rd

Notable stops: New town, Harris Teeter

Route 5 – Monticello

Notable stops: Ritas, Trader joes, Food lion

Route 6 – Jamestown 

Notable stops: Lemon Hall, CVS, Food lion, Merchant Square 

Route 7 – Mooretown Road

Notable stops: Kingsgate shops, Great Wolf Lodge, Walmart

Route 8 – William & Mary

Notable stops: Law school, Lemon Hall Jones Hall, Kaplan, School of Education, Caf, Parking Deck

**This route is dedicated to transport around the Willim & Mary campus. It operates in a loop beginning at the Law School with a round trip of 30 minutes. 

Route  9 – Toano 

Notable stops: Walmart, JCC Library

Route 11 – Lackey

Notable stops: Riverside hospital


Route 12 – Ironbound

Notable stops: Ritas, New Town, Target

Route 15 – Colonial

Notable stops: CW Visitor Center, Palace, Capitol, Merchant Square

How to find the route for you: Transit App!

The Transit App compares local transportation route options to easily find the best option for you. To easily navigate your trip follow these steps: 

  1. Search for your destination
  2. A list of options will appear
  3. Press GO on the option you’d like to use
  4. See a step-by-step outline of your journey 

Learn more about the routes here: https://gowata.org/148/Routes-Schedules

 Brain Power Foods 

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Contrary to the belief of most college students, coffee and energy drinks are not the best way to boost brain performance. Check out these healthy and delicious foods that have been proven to help increase memory, concentration, and energy:

Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to improve memory and cognitive function. They can also reduce inflammation in the brain! 

Salmon: Fatty fish like salmon are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which play a vital role in promoting new brain cell formation. 

Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that help improve blood flow to your brain. It also can stimulate the release of endorphins to release stress! 

Oranges: Oranges contain lots of vitamin C which supports the production of neurotransmitters which are essential for communication between brain cells. Vitamin C in these fresh fruits also helps boost your immune system! 

Nuts: Nuts are a great snack filled with healthy fats, protein, and vitamins! 

Avocados: Avocados are a great source of monounsaturated fats which help maintain blood flow to the brain. They are also rich in potassium which supports nerve function! 

Bananas: Bananas are a super quick and easy snack filled with lots of nutrients including vitamin B6 and potassium! These nutrients help regulate mood and enhance concentration. 

Rating the Cafes in Williamsburg 

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Springtime is the best time to wander around Williamsburg with an iced coffee (or chai) in hand. There are an abundance of cafes to choose from around town if you’re looking for a new spot to study and fuel up on caffeine. Here are my ratings for the cafes in williamsburg! 

Starting with the two on-campus cafes that you’re probably very familiar with: 

Column 15

  • Menu: I’m a big fan of matcha lattes and this one wasn’t too bad! Column 15 on campus doesn’t have too many options for drinks, especially non-coffee options, but there’s definitely something for everyone. They also have some good muffins and other pastries.
  • Ambiance: I love studying in Swem’s cafe area because it’s so lively!
  • Overall rating: 4 stars

Town Center Cold Pressed

  • Menu: I usually don’t get drinks from town center, but the coffee cake is super tasty. They have a wide variety of smoothies/juices and bagels too. 
  • Ambiance: The first floor of Sadler isn’t my personal favorite to hang around, but it’s a convenient spot for a quick coffee break being close to the center of campus.  
  • Overall rating: 3 stars


Aromas

  • Menu: Aromas has something for everyone! I love their chai lattes. 
  • Ambiance: I love the ability to sit inside or out at Aromas! It’s usually very packed though and can get pretty loud, but the cafe ambiance at aromas is fantastic. 
  • Overall rating: 5 stars 

Secret Garden

  • Menu: Secret Garden is unique in the fact that it sells boba tea! I got the brown sugar boba which was good. They have so many different options!
  • Ambiance: Secret Garden is a cute little cafe! It’s also right next to Merchant Square which is the perfect spot to study or peoplewatch. 
  • Overall rating: 4 stars

Tipsy Beans Cafe

  • Menu: Lots of unique drink options and fantastic food! I got the caramel apple spice steamer and french toast which were both delicious! 
  • Ambiance: Some indoor and outdoor seating, but can get cramped. 
  • Overall rating: 5 stars

The Bake Shop

  • Menu: The menu for Bake Shop pastries changes everyday so the options are always fresh and different! I love the bagels from the Bake Shop. Also you can use dining dollars at this location! 
  • Ambiance: Bake Shop doesn’t have indoor seating as their location is quite small and can only fit around 20 people. 
  • Overall rating: 4 stars 

Illy Caffe 

  • Menu: Illy doesn’t have that much on their menu, especially non-coffee alternatives. 
  • Ambiance: The ambiance of Illy cafe is top notch. The European style cafe with indoor seating is a perfect setting for studying or reading and right outside is Merchant Square!

Overall rating: 4 stars

One Tribe One Day

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One Tribe, One Day (OTOD) is today, March 26, 2024! This annually occurring event centered around supporting the William & Mary community is celebrated across the globe! There are hourly, donor, and area specific challenges that can amount in nearly $1 million in additional support towards William & Mary. You can support specific categories like athletics, arts & sciences, business, libraries, etc. 

There’s also a nationwide list of regional celebrations! Alumni or friends of W&M can celebrate OTOD from their hometown at various restaurants. Students also have the opportunity to join in on the celebrations with Battle of the Brains: Students vs. Deans in a trivia game against W&M deans! 

Additionally, the One Tribe One Day carnival will be held 4-6 in the Sunken Garden! With free food & swag, games, a mechanical surfboard, obstacle course, and a cyclone swing ride, there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy. Come show your support this Tuesday during One Tribe One Day! 

Learn more about the events happening near you, challenges, and how to get involved here: https://otod.wm.edu

How to Study When Tired 

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As we’re nearing the end of the semester and work begins to accumulate, stress and procrastination can take over our time. Taking naps and energy drinks might seem like a good solution, but can eventually lead to lots of cramming, stress, and fatigue. Consider trying these strategies to help you effectively study when tired. 

  1. Staying hydrated and nourished

Your body will not be able to focus if it doesn’t have fuel! Make sure you’re drinking enough water and fueling yourself with food to help boost your energy levels.

  1. Take small breaks

It can be easy to get overwhelmed when you’re tired, so taking small breaks during your study sessions can help alleviate any extra stress. 

  1. Change your study area

Let’s face it, the odds of falling asleep after deciding to study on your bed is pretty high. Try switching up your study area whether it be outside for some fresh air or the library to be surrounded by others who are trying to get work done. 

  1. Exercise 

Exercising before you study can help boost your mood and energy levels! It can also help increase focus and you’ll get some movement in!

  1. Prioritize your tasks

Find what is most important to complete and do it first! Ranking your tasks by priority will help you figure out what needs to be done and what you might be able to do later if you don’t get to it that day. 

The Dogs of Williamsburg 

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Williamsburg is home to many cute dogs! Between the campus canines and dogs surrounding campus, you’re bound to run into a new furry friend. 

One of the most beloved traditions on campus are the Swem corgis! You can catch these adorable pups in Swem Tuesdays between 2 and 4pm! 

The Wellness Center also has pet therapy! Pet therapy has many benefits such as reducing anxiety and lowering feelings of isolation. Guiness and Stella are two pups that offer pet therapy each week in the Wellness Center Lobby! Nor registration is required and you can pop in for a quick pet if you please. Guinness is available Mondays 11am – 12:30 pm and Stella is available Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am – 1pm. 

You’ll also find a variety of visiting dogs on campus and in the surrounding areas! My favorite event to spot cute dogs is the farmers market! Each Saturday the Williamsburg Farmers Market pops up around Merchant Square along with many cute dogs (and even a bunny sometimes!)

Check out these pics of the dogs of Williamsburg! 

25 Productive things to do when bored

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You have a couple homework assignments to complete, but end up cleaning your room instead. We’ve all been there! Procrastination productivity starts to make an appearance around this time when midterm exams are just around the corner. While studying is probably the most productive use of your time, if you’re looking for a break or looking to swap scrolling on your phone for something more productive, check out this list for 25 productive things to do when bored.

  1. Go for a walk / run
  2. Do a puzzle 
  3. Catch up with a friend 
  4. Clean out your email inbox
  5. Do your laundry 
  6. Try a new recipe  
  7. Start or write in a journal 
  8. Organize your files 
  9. Clean your room 
  10. Read a book 
  11. Clean out your car
  12. Draw or paint something  
  13. Call a loved one  
  14. Listen to a podcast  
  15. Learn a new skill 
  16. Crochet or knit  
  17. Update your resume 
  18. Create a bucket list  
  19. Learn a new language 
  20. Meal prep for the week 
  21. Organize your closet 
  22. Do a meditation 
  23. Go to the library 
  24. Volunteer 
  25. Take a nap or do self care 

The Ultimate College Bucket List for Your First Semester

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Welcome to the tribe spring transfers! As you begin your journey at William & Mary, consider adding these to your college bucket list. I’ve compiled a list of academic and social ideas to create the ultimate bucket list for your first semester! 

  1. Join a club or organization of something you’re interested in
  2. Explore all floors of Swem
  3. Attend a lecture or workshop outside of your major
  4. Pet a dog at the Williamsburg Farmers Market 
  5. Host a movie or game night to meet new people 
  6. Attend a formal dance or event
  7. Volunteer for a local charity or community event
  8. Start a study group with students in your class 
  9. Go kayaking on Lake Matoaka 
  10. Find your favorite pancake house 
  11. Attend an AMP Event 
  12. Write a letter to your future self to open on graduation day 
  13. Join an intramural or club sports team
  14. Attend a Career Center networking event 
  15. Participate in a research project 
  16. Take a class outside of your comfort zone 
  17. Have a picnic on the Sunken Garden 
  18. Try a fitness or wellness class 
  19. Create a photo diary of your first semester
  20. Connect with other transfer students!

There is Always Time to Close the Textbook – Emma Dunlop

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I think I’m speaking for everyone when I say that the week before Thanksgiving is one the hardest of the entire semester. The air is getting colder, the sun is setting sooner, and final exams begin peeking their heads around the corner. The final trek to break can feel endless, as most students try to cram in exam prep, essays, and final assignments.

But is this week of stress worth the almost-week-long break? For many students, Thanksgiving break translates to Thanksgiving “break from my dorm.” It’s common for students to use their time at home to continue studying for final exams and beginning their final projects. However, there is always time to close the textbook, and what better time than Thanksgiving break? Here are some ways to shake off those academic burdens during your time off.

1. Plan out your study schedule for the weeks following the break.

For me, I start to de-stress once I have a plan. If I know how I’m going to accomplish my end-of-semester goals, I’m more comfortable taking time for myself and fueling my body. And, it helps reassure me that I have enough time to get everything done!

2. Make a study playlist in preparation for finals season.

Music is a great way to spice up your studying. With a peppy playlist in hand, the motivation to study after the break is sure to pick up. Say goodbye to study dread during break!

3. Engage in some activities that take your mind off of your classes.

Wind down with a spa day, eat out with some friends, or start crafting for the holiday season. These are great ways to take your mind off school, while still fueling it for the weeks ahead.

It can be hard to completely step back from academics during such a busy time in the semester, but preparation and planning are on your side. Use these tools to ease your mind and make memories during your days away from due dates.

Emma Dunlop is a sophomore intending to major in Marketing here at William & Mary. A transfer student herself, Emma spent her first semester of college in London and arrived on campus in the Spring of 2023. In addition to starting as a STEP blog guest writer this semester, Emma is also a member of the William & Mary Accidentals, the Student Environmental Action Coalition, and Women in Business. She is so excited to get writing!