Dining dollars are allotted to every student on a meal plan at William & Mary. Budgeting them wisely and knowing the best uses of them can help you get the most value for your money.
Here’s a list of the best uses of dining dollars (in my opinion):
Bake Shop
The Bake Shop is where many of my dining dollars ended up last semester. The Bake Shop offers many delicious fresh pastries, bagels, and beverages. Make sure to get in line early if you’re looking for a sweet treat as they sell out fast!
Cafes
In-between classes or as a study treat, the cafes in Swem Library and Sadler ground floor are convenient and a tasty way to spend some dining dollars.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is a fan favorite use for dining dollars. Located on the outskirts of campus, Chick-fil-A offers a way to spend dining dollars while also switching things up from dining hall meals.
Farmers market
This semester with the introduction of a new dining provider, dining dollars will be an extra currency of the Farmers market! This exciting new update should be implemented this upcoming semester!
Sushi from business cafe
This one is a bit specific, however, if you’re looking for a change of flavor from the usual dining hall meals, try spending a little dining dollars on packaged sushi from the business cafe.
This past January I left my home in search of new experiences at William & Mary as a spring transfer student. Just a couple hours away felt like infinite space from my family, friends, and most importantly, my pets. I felt ready to venture out into college life, yet the bittersweet moments leading up to moving out made me question my readiness.
Would I be behind on making friends coming in halfway through the academic year?
Would classes be harder than I could handle?
Would I feel homesick?
There were so many unknowns leaving home and adapting to a new environment. My orientation group was made up of around six people, each of us spring transfers of different graduation years. Within a couple hours I had already made a couple friends which would become some of my best friends later in the semester.
There are some things that I didn’t quite recognize until after beginning my first semester. Everyone is going through the same process. No one comes into college knowing exactly who they’ll be friends with, how classes will go, or what their future holds. It doesn’t matter if you begin as a freshman in the fall, or a transfer in the spring, building a home away from home is about finding people and places that make you feel comfortable. Sounds like a daunting task, but in the moment you won’t know you’re building brick by brick until you take a step back and realize that all of the fun experiences and friendships made along the way have built four walls and a roof. This is what makes William & Mary so special. The saying “Those who come here belong here” is taken to heart. I’ve only spent a short amount of time here, but the welcoming nature of W&M has constructed a foundation on which I’ve built my home away from home.
Move-in can be a whirlwind of families, decor, and emotions. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare will make the process of building a new home away from home much easier. In this blog post you’ll find a list of what to and what not to bring curated from the official list by Residence Life, finding your residence hall, and the move-in process.
What to bring
Bed
bed sheets and pillowcase
mattress topper
blankets and comforter
pillows
storage items
Bathroom
bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths
toothbrush
brush/comb
hair styling products / appliances
personal toiletries
bath caddy
shower shoes
Cleaning
laundry basket
bathroom cleaner
disinfectant wipes
dusting cloth
sponges
broom/dustpan
paper towels
Kitchen
microwave safe plates / bowls
cups, mugs, glasses
thermostatically controlled coffee maker or tea kettle
a few utensils
Tools
flashlight
batteries
basic tools
bike / bike lock
important personal documents (drivers license, passport, insurance documents)
Electronics
lamps
headphones
small refrigerator
microwave
small vacuum
small fan
surge protectors
What not to bring
Candles
Extension cords
Curtains that are not fire rated
Halogen lamps
Incense
Any items that require open flames
Scented plug ins
Permitted items in common kitchen or apartment kitchens
Bread machines
Crockpots
Rice cookers
Hot plates
George Foreman Grill
Electric Skillet
Move-in process
New students will make their way on campus to move-in on August 24th from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. You’ll schedule an appointment for during this time frame to check-in before arriving on campus. You’ll need your check-in QR code and health clearance to check-in on campus. The check-in line will begin on Compton Drive. You’ll have a designated color-coded route based on your assigned residential hall. Only one vehicle per family is permitted and must be unloaded within one hour of arrival at the unloading zone.
Avoiding Stress & Sorrow
Some things to consider when moving-in are what you are moving and the heat. Remember that everything you move into the dorm must be removed at the end of the year. Also make sure to bring lots of water to stay hydrated as it will most likely be a hot day during move-in.
The hardest part besides moving heavy boxes up stairs in the heat is saying see you later to your family. Remember that you can always call your family and friends and return home during the many breaks. Best of luck new students and welcome to William & Mary!
Embarking on the adventure of studying abroad as an international student brings a mix of excitement and challenges. Having left behind the comfort of home and family, my transition to William & Mary has been a transformative experience. In this blog post, I will share the joys and obstacles I’ve encountered, the support I’ve received, and how William & Mary has become a second home.
1. Embracing the Unknown:
Stepping onto the campus of William & Mary for the first time, I was greeted with a myriad of new experiences. The academic culture, weather (especially during the winter), and even the cuisine presented challenges that required adaptation. However, the support I received from the university community helped ease my transition and made me feel welcome from day one.
2. Choosing William & Mary:
I selected William & Mary for its outstanding higher education program, small class sizes, and the opportunity to connect with knowledgeable professors. After completing my first semester, I can confidently say that the university has surpassed my expectations. The campus is not only visually stunning but also populated with faculty and staff who genuinely care about student success. Prior to my arrival, staff at the School of Education and the Reves Center for International Studies provided invaluable assistance in expediting my visa process, setting a positive tone for my journey ahead.
3. A Sense of Community:
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my time at William & Mary has been the sense of belonging I’ve found. The Reves Center facilitated connections with other African students, enabling me to seamlessly integrate into campus life. Furthermore, the Global Friends program offered me the opportunity to engage with a local senior member, fostering cultural exchange and deepening my understanding of American history and traditions.
4. A Rewarding Journey:
My first semester at William & Mary has been nothing short of rewarding. Engaging with knowledgeable professors and participating in a diverse and rigorous academic environment has set me on a path to becoming an educational leader. Beyond academics, I have formed friendships and established professional networks that I anticipate will last a lifetime.
5. Advice for International Students:
To my fellow international students, I encourage you to embrace curiosity and never hesitate to ask questions. Rest assured that there will always be someone ready to support you and provide the resources you need. Seize the opportunities available to you, challenge yourself, and be open to exploring new frontiers. Regardless of your background, I hope that both Williamsburg and William & Mary will come to feel at home, just as they have for me.
As an international student, my journey at William & Mary has been a transformative experience. The challenges I faced have been outweighed by the support I received from the university community. William & Mary has not only provided me with an exceptional education but has also nurtured a sense of belonging and a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. I am grateful for the opportunities I have found here and encourage others to embark on their own adventures, knowing that William & Mary will be there to guide them every step of the way.
William & Mary has so much to offer in academics, wellness, career development and more. Trying to fit all aspects of the college experience into a daily schedule can be difficult, but consider trying the PACE goal guide when planning out your day. I created PACE goals during online learning as a way to maintain balance in my schedule throughout the day. PACE goals work by separating different tasks or goals into four main categories: personal, academic, creative, and exercise. I chose these four categories from figuring out what makes my day feel the most productive and complete. PACE goals are helpful because they allow for you to prioritize, organize, and create an overview of your balanced day.
Prioritizing tasks and goals by choosing the most important helps separate the essential tasks for each day.
P – Personal
Personal tasks and goals are those that are dedicated for you.
Some examples of personal tasks could be journaling, reading, meditating, etc.
The Wellness Center is a great resource for dedicating time towards personal tasks.
A – Academic
Academic tasks and goals are those that are dedicated for school.
Some examples of academic tasks could be completing a homework assignment, studying for an exam, etc.
The Writing Resource Center is a great resource for strengthening writing and communication skills.
C – Creative / Career
Creative tasks and goals are those that dedicate time towards making something. These tasks are designed to minimize screen time and create anything from a small doodle to baking a cake.
C could also stand for career. Career tasks and goals are those that dedicate time towards developing your career. Consider checking out the Cohen Career Center for assistance towards applying for jobs and professional development.
Some examples of creative tasks could be drawing, painting, baking, crochet, etc.
Some examples of career tasks could be creating a resume, taking professional headshots, applying for jobs, etc.
The Makerspace in Swem Library is a great resource for a variety of creative projects.
E – Exercise
Exercise tasks and goals are those that dedicate time for movement.
Some examples of exercise tasks could be specific workouts, minutes of movement, rest days etc.
The Campus Recreation Center is a great resource for exercise tasks.
Research is a core part of William & Mary. Getting involved in research with professors can seem intimidating at first, but here are a few tips on pursuing opportunities at William & Mary.
Timing is key
The first step in solidifying a spot on a research project is figuring out when you would like to participate. Are you looking for a single semester project? Maybe a lab group to stick with for a longer time period? Asking these questions can help you and the professor you reach out to better understand what type of research position you’re seeking.
Make sure research aligns with your aspirations
Participating in research related to your major or area of interest will not only contribute to your resume, but also provide you with useful knowledge and skills towards a future career. An email with more personal connections to the research can stand out to a professor.
Reaching out to professors
There are a few things to include in your email to professors when asking about research positions. Make sure to research about the research the professor you are reaching out to has done / is currently working on. It can be helpful to include reasons why you are interested in working specifically with them and how you can contribute to the lab group / research. A brief description of your career goals and how they align with the research also is helpful to include. Setting up a time to talk in person can help the professor get to know you better and discuss what projects might be of interest.
Burnout is something most students experience and can stem from over-studying or an unbalanced schedule. It’s important to take care of our well-being to have a successful semester since it is multidimensional and requires physical, mental, and emotional care. Here are some quick tips to help you prevent and recover from academic burnout:
Leave one day for minimal to no work: setting time aside for self care, personal activities, and a break from schoolwork might sound daunting at first. However, dedicating this time to yourself can be more beneficial than trying to work non stop everyday. Take the time to replenish your sleep, check in with your health, and do something you’ve been looking forward to!
Have 3-5 attainable goals a day: too many tasks can be overwhelming and unrealistic. Try limiting yourself to the tasks of highest priority each day.
Break tasks into smaller tasks: sometimes making tasks into smaller ones can give the impression of getting more done when checking off tasks. This can help you maintain motivation to get work done.
Listen to your emotions: if you feel extremely overwhelmed, it’s time to take a break. Take time to rest and recharge so you can return ready.
Set boundaries: learn to say no to things you don’t have time for / don’t want to do.
Reflect on what caused previous burnouts: how were previous burnouts sparked? What did you do to recover? How can you realistically avoid the causes in the future?
Wellness Center – If your favorite spot on campus is the Wellness Center, you probably enjoy reading self improvement books like Atomic Habits by James Clear. Atomic Habits is a personal development book that provides tips on making the most of each day.
James Blair Hall – If your favorite spot on campus is James Blair Hall, you’ve got an eye for design. Blair Hall’s dark academia atmosphere makes it the perfect place to pretend you’re in The Secret History by Donna Tartt. The Secret History follows a group of students at a prestigious college who are investigating a murder of a close friend.
Boswell Hall – If your favorite spot on campus is Boswell, you might enjoy haunted houses. Due to your attraction to all things scary, Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney, a fast-paced thriller, might be an intriguing book for you. Rock Paper Scissors follows a couple on a trip away for their anniversary with various perspectives and plot twists making a quick read.
Sunken Garden – If your favorite spot on campus is the Sunken Garden, you might appreciate the descriptions of nature in World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil. This collection of short essays and poems about nature explores the innate beauty of the natural world.
Tucker Hall – If your favorite spot on campus is Tucker Hall, you enjoy figuring out puzzles and the intriguing maze of stairs just like Piranesi by Susanna Clarke. In this short fantasy book, Piranesi explores his unending labyrinth in which he calls home.
Swem Library – If your favorite spot on campus is the Swem Library, a book based in a library might appeal to you. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig explores a world where each book in a library provides a chance to experience another possible life you could’ve lived.
Wren Building – If your favorite spot on campus is the Wren Building, you might enjoy the historical aspect of the university. The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson is a historical fiction that examines the past in a search for connecting with one’s identity and family.
Swem Cafe – If your favorite spot on campus is the Swem Cafe, you might find yourself in search for a book based in a cafe setting like Before The Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. In this short fantasy book, visitors of a small cafe in Japan have the opportunity to travel back in time, but must return before their coffee gets cold.
William & Mary participates in many traditions throughout the school year. Convocation marks the official beginning of the academic year. Having begun in 1993, the tradition of welcoming new students and celebrating the beginning of a new academic year is shared amongst all students, faculty, and staff. The president of the university leads new students through the Wren Building where they are greeted by cheers and high fives of current students, faculty, and staff.
A little farther into the school year is Homecoming & Reunion Weekend. During this weekend in October, William & Mary Alumni and friends travel to campus to reunite within parties and receptions, attend department open houses, tailgate and watch a football game, and attend the Sunset Ceremony to honor alumni who have passed away in the previous year. Current students can utilize this time to network with alumni and enjoy the school spirit celebrations.
Right before winter break, students gather in the Wren Courtyard to witness the Yule Log celebration. Full of festive live music, singing, readings, sugar cookies, cider, and a holiday reading from the university president, the Yule Log celebration is a time to reflect on the semester and prepare for the upcoming holidays. Students toss ceremonial sprigs of holly into the Yule log fire in the Wren Great Hall Fireplace for good luck and decorate trees with paper doves containing messages of gratitude.
After the beginning of the spring semester on February 8th is Charter Day; the annual celebration of the granting of William & Mary’s Royal Charter in 1693 (the beginning of the university!) During Charter Day celebrations there are speakers, a concert, and distribution of honors and awards to students, faculty, and alumni.
After spring break is One Tribe One Day (OTOD). This day is all about showing support for the William & Mary community by donating to university departments. OTOD celebrations include challenges, a variety of events, and a carnival in the Sunken Garden. For alumni, family, and friends not on campus, there are regional celebrations across the country to participate in this tradition.
At the end of each school year, the Royal Ball is held under the stars in the Sunken Garden. Enjoy food, live music from student bands, and dancing to celebrate the end of the academic year.
The Last Day of Classes (LDOC) is a highly anticipated day for students. A variety of celebrations are included such as the Sunken Garden party filled with free food, games, and live music. Enjoy fun activities like friendship bracelet making, massages, games, and more across campus to celebrate the end of the spring semester. Seniors have the opportunity to ring the ceremonial Wren Bell after finishing their last class at William & Mary.
In preparation for commencement, seniors gather in the Wren Courtyard the night before graduation for the candlelight ceremony. During this ceremony a faculty member, administrator, and student elected by the class speak while light from a Wren Candle is passed from student to student.
Sources:
“William & Mary Traditions.” William & Mary, www.wm.edu/about/history/traditions/index.php. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“Homecoming & Reunion Weekend oct. 19-22, 2023.” Homecoming & Reunion Weekend – William & Mary, homecoming.wm.edu/. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“Yule Log Celebration.” William & Mary, www.wm.edu/sites/yulelog/. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“Charter Day.” William & Mary, www.wm.edu/sites/charterday/. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“About Charter Day.” William & Mary, www.wm.edu/sites/charterday/about/index.php. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“Events.” One Tribe One Day, otod.wm.edu/events/. Accessed 28 June 2023.
“The Royal Ball.” TribeLink, tribelink.wm.edu/event/9044687. Accessed 28 June 2023.
Welcome new students! Joining a college environment introduces you to a plethora of new experiences and opportunities. If you’re looking for something to do when bored or checking off must-have activities, try using this bucket list of 27 things you should do your first year at William & Mary.
Figure out how to pronounce Botetourt
Find the old Lake Matoaka Amphitheatre
Listen to an a capella group perform at Wren 10
Take a class in a subject you’ve never learned about before
Make an account on Tribe Careers
Leave campus by figuring out the WATA bus system
Stop by your professors’ office hours to get to know them
Check out a book from Swem
Photograph your favorite spot on campus during all four seasons
Learn a new campus fun fact when you walk by a tour group
Connect with Alumni over Homecoming weekend
Attend an event for a cultural organization that you’re not a member of
Attend a group fitness class at the Rec or Wellness center
Swim in the Rec Center or Adair Hall pool
Try to play it cool after being startled by one of the many campus squirrels
Get some flowers at the weekly Farmers’ Market
Figure out your go-to Wawa order
Submit a call-in order at the Cheese Shop to skip the lines and feel like a local
Take a late night walk through CW
Narrowly miss stepping in horse poop on DOG Street
Travel Europe for the day by going to Busch Gardens
Get your free student pass from Colonial Williamsburg
Compare the fudge at Wythe and Kilwin’s and pick a favorite
Take advantage of living in the city with the most pancake houses per capita
