Campus Life

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Syracuse

After a well-deserved Spring Break, classes resume on a very important holiday: St. Patrick’s Day! A celebration dating back to 1631 to honor the life of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved through new traditions of celebrating Irish heritage and culture. Syracuse has a long history of celebrating this green festivity due to its high population of Irish inhabitants. If you want to join in on the fun this year, there are several events planned to celebrate on and around campus from now through March 17.

Late Night at the Rink: St. Patrick’s Day Skate

On Thursday, March 6, from 8–11 p.m., head down to the Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion for a special St. Patty’s-themed late night event. Attendees are in for a night of St. Patrick’s pride, skating to Irish hits under festive green lighting. There’s even a chance to win a prize if you chase and tag the leprechaun skating around the ice. So wear your green and (don’t) break a leg!

Crazy Daisies Weekend-Long Celebration

After closing down for their annual winter break, Crazy Daisies is back up and running for the upcoming spring season. If you’re unfamiliar, Crazy Daisies is a local greenhouse and garden cafe that hosts a number of workshops beginning in April. But it’s not spring just yet! To bide their time until nature’s in full bloom, Crazy Daisies is hosting a weekend-long St. Patrick’s Day celebration with live music and reuben refreshments. While they are not open on March 17 itself, be sure to check them out in the days leading up to it!

St. Patrick’s Parade

Syracuse’s 43rd annual St. Patrick’s Parade will take place on Saturday, March 15, starting at noon. The parade route will wind around Armory and Clinton Squares. This year’s parade theme is “Irish in the 315,” and the parade will celebrate with two honorees: Mayor Ben Walsh (parade Grand Marshal) and Meg O’Connell (“Gael of the Year”). For anyone who wants to enjoy the parade without subjecting themselves to Syracuse’s fickle mid-March weather, check out Marriott Syracuse Downtown’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party beginning at 11:30 a.m. With purchase of a $15 ticket, guests can enjoy a hot food buffet, live music, Irish step dancing, bagpipes and more. However you choose to attend, be sure to wear your green and show your Irish pride!

Enjoy Traditional Bites

If big events aren’t your thing but you still want to participate in the celebration, visit a local restaurant and grab a traditional Irish meal. One great option is Kitty Hoynes, located in downtown Syracuse. They have a wide selection of foods and will even have live music various days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day. Check out their Instagram account for more details. Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub is an excellent alternative, located in Tipperary Hill. They too regularly host live music, with day-long performances on St. Patrick’s Day. If you’d rather go on another day, be sure to go on a Tuesday night and participate in their free weekly trivia nights. I can’t forget to mention that they even have a leprechaun door next to the entrance!

With so many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Syracuse, you’re sure to have a shamrockin’ good time!

Written By Maggie Anderson ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

5 Affordable Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day should be a day filled with love. However, after warring with fleets of other couples for dinner reservations and paying for food, gifts and other miscellaneous holiday expenses, the day might not seem so lovely anymore. But a V-Day date night doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive! You might find that you’ll have a more fun and intimate holiday if you just use some creativity. Lucky for you, we’ve already put our creative hats on and come up with five low-cost date ideas that still have a lot of heart!

Homemade Heart Pizzas

Making dinner together is a way to spend quality time and get to enjoy food at the end of it. It’s also more intimate and far less expensive; instead of being around 100 strangers all trying to have a quiet, romantic dinner, turn your own kitchen into a private five-star restaurant! Grab your speaker and turn up the good vibes as you cook, or keep it quiet and lowkey and enjoy the time together.

Homemade pizza is simple and straightforward, and to put a Valentine’s twist on the meal, you can make your dough into a heart shape! Trader Joe’s has everything you need to make your pizzas: plain pizza dough ($1.69), pizza sauce ($1.99), a variety of shredded cheeses and delicious toppings like pepperoni. They have all the necessary pizza-making ingredients in one section, so you don’t even have to search the store!

Portrait Painting

All you need is a pack of paint and a plain canvas for a crafty date night! A fun painting activity is to attempt painting portraits of each other. Stop in at a nearby craft store and you’ll find all the tools you need to paint, like brushes ($4.49), acrylic paint ($6.99) and canvases ($5.99). Unless you’re secretly a Picasso or van Gogh, this lighthearted activity will surely make you laugh!

Elevated Movie Night

These days, picking a movie takes longer than watching one. So before the movie night even starts, agree on what you’re going to watch. You can even take a few days to chat about it; that could make for some good conversations!

Once the movie is picked, how can you romanticize a movie night at home? We’re glad you asked! First, go to a nearby store and pick out candy and other treats that will pair well with some microwavable popcorn. (Walgreens has movie candy for just $0.99, or five for $5!) Then, prepare your ultimate dessert charcuterie board to enjoy as you watch the film! If you need some inspiration, be sure to check out Pinterest.

DIY Spa Night

After a long week of work or classes, a DIY spa night can be the perfect way to unwind. Go on a Target run together and pick up affordable face masks, eye masks and nail polish (all of which you can get for under $20!). If you want to add a twist to the night, paint each other’s nails a surprise color. Set the tone for relaxation by lighting some candles and playing some music from the “Best Relaxing Spa Music” playlist on Spotify.

Game Night

A game night can tell you a lot about a person. How do they deal with setbacks, challenges and success? Do they rage quit when they’re sent to Monopoly jail, or do they persevere to get back to GO? Board games usually last an hour or so and can be a fun way to get to know someone. Target has a large selection of board games, so take a fun drive over and pick one out together. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Written By Emily Rutkowski G’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

Safety in the Snow

The snow is falling in Syracuse, but it doesn’t mean you should be, too! There are numerous ways to have fun in the snow while remaining safe. After all, the gloom does not have to be that unpleasant; yet, being prepared for winter conditions like ice, wind and low temperatures can help you focus on better things, like making those snow angels!

Safe Driving

The winter brings unpredictable and dangerous road conditions like ice, so the first safety precaution you can take while driving is to slow down. Make up for a potentially slower commute by giving yourself extra time to arrive at your destination. Being a cautious driver is in, which means leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front of you so you have more time to react to whatever may happen on the road. But above all, you do not have to brave the weather conditions if you feel unsafe. If your drive isn’t absolutely necessary, consider cancelling or rescheduling. Waiting to head out on the roads until conditions improve will undoubtedly keep you and everyone else safer!

If you absolutely must go out in bad winter weather, you can drive with greater confidence if you are well-prepared. First, make sure you have a snow shovel and an ice scraper in your vehicle. These tools can prevent snow from obstructing your tires and ice from forming on your windshields. (An ice scraper can also save yourself about 10 minutes every day by not having to wait for the ice to melt from your windshield!) Stocking up on additional layers, such as coats, caps, socks and warm blankets, is also always considered safe when driving. If you become stranded on the road, you can maintain your warmth without the assistance of your vehicle’s heater.

Keeping non-perishable snacks and water in your car is also helpful, whether you need to hydrate or clean the mud off your shoes before entering. If you encounter a worst-case winter weather scenario and get stuck in your car for a period of time, you’ll have some food and water at your disposal. Just remember to keep shelf-stable snacks in your car rather than perishable ones. Things like granola bars can keep for a long time, don’t require storage at a certain temperature and are far less likely to stink up your car if they happen to expire!

Safe Walking

The winter blues are real! It has been proven that exercise helps you combat those sad feelings, but when it comes to snow and ice, getting outside is not always easy or safe. Walking in the winter has many benefits: you burn more calories by fighting off the cold, reduce stress and help rejuvenate your skin. But you must be prepared to gain all these benefits because you can’t have fun when you’re cold!

When you’re preparing to spend significant time outdoors in the winter, wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight and warm clothes. Stay away from constricting clothes and change quickly if your clothes get wet. Additionally, don’t skimp on warm winter accessories! Wool socks keep the warmth in and prevent your toes from freezing. A scarf is not only stylish, but also practical; there are many ways to wear a scarf that can keep your entire head warm. Keeping your hands warm helps keep your whole body warm, so grab those gloves, too. Remember, you can always unzip a jacket or remove extra layers if you get too warm, but there’s nothing you can do if you head out underdressed!

Dressing warmly isn’t the only thing you need to do to prepare for wintry walks; you also want to stay on your feet! When there’s snow and ice on the ground, it’s best to leave the slip-on Vans at home. Instead, opt for cozy snow boots or shoes with better traction to help keep you steady and safe.

The sun sets earlier in winter, so your walks might happen in the dark. That’s totally okay, but it’s important to be visible on the streets! Wearing something like a headlamp or reflective gear is a great way for cars and other pedestrians to see you at night, helping everyone stay aware of each other.

Safe Living

Shoveling snow is important to stay on top of because if you don’t, the build-up of snow will turn into ice and make it harder to remove as time goes on. Clearing the pathways will prevent someone from slipping and potentially becoming injured. If you’re living in a dorm, the University takes care of clearing off-campus sidewalks, but if you live in an apartment, double-check your lease to see if it’s your responsibility or your landlord’s responsibility to clear snow from your driveway and sidewalk. If it’s your responsibility, it’s in your best interest to shovel as soon as you can, but prioritize your safety first. Be mindful of patches where you could slip, and be careful not to overexert yourself. Take breaks regularly and stop immediately if you begin experiencing any sudden pain.

Along similar safety lines, do not climb roofs to remove snow. If you really need to clear snow off your roof, first determine where that snow will fall, then use a ladder (with someone holding it at the bottom!) to clear the snow off with a long stick. Snow can be heavier than you realize, so make sure the ground is free of anyone or anything that could be harmed, such as a person or a vehicle.

Outside of snow removal, it’s important to be aware of any severe snow, ice or wind storms and be prepared for the possibility of a power outage. If the power goes out from any bad wintry weather, make sure you have a source of light! Keep spare batteries and flashlights in a kitchen or desk drawer.

If you lose power, you may also not have access to heating for a while. Store extra blankets and sleeping bags in a closet or under your bed to keep you warm on cold winter nights. To keep as much heat in as possible, close off unused rooms, stuff towels or sheets in cracks under doors, and close blinds and/or curtains.

If you want any more tips on how to stay safe on campus, be sure to visit the University’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) website and download the Orange Safe app.

Written By Emily Rutkowski G’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

5 Indoor Activities To Do With Your Friends This Winter

This frigid winter, only the bravest among us will venture out into the Syracuse tundra. If you’re anything like me, any windchill-laden walk on campus is enough to make me want to stay indoors for the foreseeable future. So, while you’re watching big snowflakes float past your window from the comfort of an insulated dorm or apartment this season, here are some fun activities you can do with your friends to make your winter days more memorable.

Bluck

You may be asking, “What is a ‘Bluck’?” A breakfast potluck, of course! Assign you and your friends a couple of breakfast treats to make (like pancakes, cinnamon rolls or fruit salad), and each person brings one to a communal space. You can even set up a table buffet-style with fragrant florals, decadent wax candles and a fancy tablecloth. Food is a love language for some, and a Bluck is a fantastic way to make new memories and connect with your closest friends!

Closet Swap

No matter how many clothes we buy, sometimes our wardrobes feel stale. If you and your friends like to borrow each other’s clothes (or you just like your friends’ styles), try hosting a closet swap! Set up some racks in a common area and blast some of your favorite tunes while you “shop.” A closet swap is also a fantastic way to reduce your consumption this winter and regenerate your wardrobe without the cost or waste.

Movie Roulette

Sometimes the hardest decision you’ll have to make in a day is what movie to watch with your friends. Especially in a large group, you may be scrolling endlessly through every streaming platform (yes, even Mubi) before settling on a film everyone can agree on. One way to avoid this problem is by creating a movie roulette document. Have you and your friends each put five films into a spreadsheet you would be happy to watch on movie night. Then, spin a number generator and watch the movie it lands on. Or, if you really want to go random, spin Reelgood’s Movie Roulette Generator, which will give you a movie to watch from the services you are subscribed to.

Start a Book Club

Reading is a great solo activity, but it’s even more enjoyable to talk about books with others! Assemble a group of friends who would be willing to read a book a month and vote on a book that everyone would be happy to read. Then, you can schedule in-person book club meetings (snacks included) and chat about your thoughts on the book. The app Fable is also a great way to maintain an interactive online book club if your IRL friends aren’t interested or your book-loving besties aren’t on campus.

Paint Night

Painting is a great way to tap into your creative side and unwind after a long day or week of classes. Follow a tutorial online or go rogue! Try out a self-portrait or whip out some fruits for a still life. Set up some mini easels and paint sets in a circle so you can still chat with your friends or listen to some music as you work. Then, once you’re all done, you can reveal the paintings to everyone else in the circle. Display them along the wall and have a mini art gallery opening.

While there’s lots to do indoors, Syracuse winters are also built for fun outdoor activities. If you’re willing to brave the cold, check out the Barnes Center at The Arch’s Outdoor Adventure trips for this semester. These trips include activities like cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. No matter how you choose to spend chilly winter days, just make sure you have fun and make some memories!

Written By Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

Stressbusting Events to Attend Before Finals Week

With finals just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to take a break and recharge with these five stress-relieving activities happening right on campus! From dynamic sessions combining yoga and Pilates, to unique sound immersion sessions involving Tibetan singing bowls, these activities are designed to help you unwind, refocus and recharge for the challenges ahead.

Plant and Paint Your Own Pot Stressbuster (Dec. 6)

Hosted by the Center for International Services and the Barnes Center at The Arch, students are invited to alleviate their stress creatively and unwind by creating their own potted succulent to take home and enjoy. According to MQ Mental Health, artistic pursuits provide outlets for self-expression and can induce meditative flow states, allowing people to regulate emotions and reframe perspectives—just what you need during the chaos of finals week.

Spin the Beats (Dec. 9)

The Barnes Center has a plethora of stress-relieving activities to try out, and Spin the Beats is definitely going to help you sweat the stress away! Featuring upbeat music and dynamic choreographed moves that keep you motivated and energized, this workout combines cardio, rhythm and endurance training, creating an invigorating way to stay active and clear your mind during finals week. An article in Harvard Health shows that aerobic exercise has enormous mental health benefits, reducing levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Cardio also stimulates endorphin production, chemicals in the brain that are the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Yoga’lates (Dec. 9)

Yoga’lates combines the mindfulness and relaxation techniques of yoga with the core-strengthening and posture-enhancing principles of Pilates. Students can build strength, improve stamina, enhance stability and increase flexibility—all while finding a sense of calm and focus. Whether you need a break from studying or a way to recharge, this fusion workout is the perfect stress reliever for finals week!

Reiki Chair Session (Dec. 10)

Originating in early 20th-century Japan, Reiki is a holistic energy healing practice designed to reduce anxiety and stress through gentle touch. By channeling energy through their hands, Reiki practitioners help restore balance and improve the natural flow of energy in your body, supporting both physical and emotional healing. The 5-10 minute sessions offered by the Barnes Center aim to bring on a meditative state, relieve pain and tension, and stimulate your immune system.

Sound Bathing Immersion Experience (Dec. 11)

This unique event utilizes a collection of gongs, cymbals, chimes and singing bowls to offer students a one-of-a-kind musical experience. The vibrations created by these instruments penetrate the body in complex ways, promoting healing and restorative properties. An article by Calm highlights the various ways in which music can help you diminish stress, from boosting creativity to offering a distraction. Calm suggests trying music that’s improvisational or new to you—exactly what this immersive experience offers!

Written By Ariya Kukreja ’28, School of Architecture

How to Host the Perfect Friendsgiving

The holiday season is gearing up, so it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to celebrate. As we all know, Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity to share your gratitude for your loved ones and spend quality time with those closest to you. Whether you’re hosting or striving to be a gracious houseguest, keep reading for tips to create the perfect Friendsgiving celebration.

Make It Official

There’s nothing like sending back an RSVP to an event—it ups the anticipation and gets you in the party mood! Mess around on Canva or Adobe Illustrator (if you’re a design person) and send out e-invites. You can do a classic text message, official email or even use a platform like Partiful, which will tell your guests all they need to know and send them reminders closer to the main event. Or, if you want to uphold a traditional Thanksgiving atmosphere, make your own invitations on physical paper and send them or drop them in your guests’ mailboxes (archaic, I know).

The Ambience

Thanksgiving table centerpieces can run upwards of $100, so save yourself the money and find some fun, inexpensive table decorations. For example, colorful candlesticks are a surefire cheap add-on to make the vibe both pretty and cozy. If you want to add some fun florals, stop by a Michael’s or other craft store to pick up some faux greenery and make your own little centerpiece.

You may be surprised how far a tablecloth can go in transforming your thrifted, chipped wood table into an elegant dining table. While you will probably be chattering away over dinner, you can also curate a chill playlist that won’t distract your conversation (think songs by Norah Jones or Leon Bridges) or choose one from a streaming platform to pop on.

Activities

Before the feast, gather your group together for some interactive games or entertainment. Some fan-favorites include Taboo, Cards Against Humanity, and karaoke (even better if it’s blind!). If you’re able, Jackbox Games are also a fun alternative to traditional board games. If you want to channel your inner “Friends,” head outside for some touch football, too!

For friend groups with an artsy side, buy some mini canvases and a paint set. Follow along with a Bob Ross tutorial or let your creative juices flow and your brush guide you.

The Food

While cooking a perfect turkey would be deeply impressive, odds are you might not have the access or the time to spend nursing a bird to golden brown perfection. An easy solution to take the burden off the Friendsgiving host is to go for a potluck. Each guest can bring a home-cooked or premade dish for everyone to enjoy! Here are some easy recipes to try if you’re interested in making something for the big event. To make sure you have enough food to go around, coordinate with your guests about the food they’re planning to bring.

Give Thanks

What’s a Friendsgiving without gratitude? If you’re a traditionalist, stick to the classics and go around the table and say what you’re thankful for. But if you want to shake things up, try writing kind notes to your guests, or make a gratitude tree at the table. Cut out little leaves of construction paper and have your guests write something they’re thankful for on them. Then, you can attach your “leaves” to faux branches. Not only will this foster connection between your guests, but you’ll end up with a physical reminder of your celebration.

Written By Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

Top 5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Fall 2025

Are you considering studying abroad but unsure of when to go? Look no further! Here are five exciting reasons why the Fall 2025 semester is the perfect time for your international adventure.

1. Exclusive Fall-Only Programs

Fall offers unique study abroad opportunities that you won’t want to miss. Programs like Exploring Central Europe, Engineering in Strasbourg and Spanish Immersion in Santiago are specifically designed for the fall semester. Drama majors can thrive in the Acting at Shakespeare’s Globe program, while computer science students can enhance their skills in London with courses that align with their major. These exclusive options provide a chance to delve deeply into your field of study!

2. Higher Acceptance Rate for Programs and Housing

Studying abroad in the fall means you’re more likely to be accepted into your preferred program and housing arrangements. With a variety of fall-exclusive options available, students have greater chances of securing spots in programs that align with their academic and personal interests. Plus, you’ll have a variety of housing choices, making it easier to find accommodations that suit your needs and preferences.

3. Financial Aid and Program Grants

Worried about the cost of studying abroad? Syracuse Abroad makes it easier! You can retain your institutional aid while studying on a Syracuse Abroad program, ensuring the financial costs are similar to studying on campus. Plus, there are numerous grants and scholarships specifically available for fall programs. Don’t miss out on exclusive funding opportunities designed to support your international education!

4. Celebrate Unique Holiday Traditions

Fall is a vibrant time for holiday celebrations, especially in Europe! Experience the magical Strasbourg Christmas markets, known as the oldest in Europe, where you can enjoy festive lights, local crafts and delicious treats. Participate in the Strasbourg World Forum on Democracy, and immerse yourself in cultural events like Oktoberfest in Germany. These celebrations offer a unique glimpse into local traditions and create unforgettable memories while you study abroad.

5. Extra Time for Personal and Academic Growth

Studying abroad in the fall gives you additional time to explore your interests and make any necessary adjustments to your academic path upon returning to campus. Whether you’re considering a new major, exploring internship opportunities or joining clubs, the fall semester provides a unique opportunity to reflect and grow in a new environment. You can return with fresh perspectives and newfound passions!

With exclusive programs, financial support, exciting holiday celebrations and the opportunity for personal growth, Fall 2025 is the perfect time to study abroad. Don’t wait! Visit the Syracuse Abroad website for more information on available programs and to apply early—applications for Fall 2025 open on Nov. 15, 2024, and close on March 15, 2025. Embrace the adventure of a lifetime!

Written By Alexandra Csemez ’25, College of Visual and Performing Arts, Syracuse Strasbourg ’24

Course Tagging for Spring 2025 Opening Soon

Class registration for the Spring 2025 semester opens on Nov. 4, so, as always, be sure to look out for course tags! Course tagging allows students to filter class selection based on the six Shared Competencies. The Shared Competencies are:

  1. Ethics, Integrity, and Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
  2. Critical and Creative Thinking
  3. Scientific Inquiry and Research Skills
  4. Civic and Global Responsibility
  5. Communication Skills
  6. Information Literacy and Technological Agility

Course tagging benefits students in many ways. Course tags highlight the skills and knowledge you can expect to learn in a course. You will be able to select classes based on the Shared Competencies you wish to develop, gain or improve. By doing so, you can enrich your undergraduate experience by creating a personalized skill set that employers and graduate schools value. For example, if your major requires an abundance of classes in Critical and Creative Thinking, but not Information Literacy and Technological Agility, you can use course tags to enroll in classes that allow you to develop Information Literacy and Technological Agility while still meeting your graduation requirements!

As you complete assignments in tagged courses, you can practice competencies and get feedback from faculty to develop a well-rounded skill set.
The skills learned through the six Shared Competencies set Syracuse University apart from other universities because course tagging illustrates the transferable skills students will gain to prepare for postgraduate opportunities.

Check out the Institutional Effectiveness website to learn more about using the course tagging feature in MySlice and Schedule Builder!

Written By Naimah Rahman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

No Boredom November

We’re nearing that part of the semester when the days blend together and it feels like no time is passing, when the end is in sight but still seems so far out of reach. In the midst of the mid-fall slump, I’ve compiled a list of activities to brighten your days just a tad and help you get unstuck.

Glow in the Dark

As the days grow colder and darker, the crave for light and warmth intensifies. If you’re a holiday season fanatic, I’ve got a dazzling proposal for you. Starting on Nov. 18, Central New York’s annual Lights on the Lake tradition officially begins! This sparkling sensation at the Onondaga Lake Park features over 600,000 lights that encapsulate the holiday spirit. The best part? You can enjoy them from the comfort of your own car, where you can sing along with the event’s own official radio station. Most importantly, tickets are exclusively sold online, so make sure to secure your spot now!

Seasonal Art

With winter coming up fast, it’s increasingly crucial to mark the calendar with some indoor activities. I guarantee this to be an entertaining experience for anyone, but especially for those dedicated museum-lovers. Mark your calendars: on Friday, Nov. 22, the Erie Canal Museum launches its annual Gingerbread Gallery! The gallery is up until Jan. 12 and features a number of intricate creations. General admission to the museum is $10 for adults and includes access to this festive exhibit. If you’ve got some time on your hands, you could even enter the competition for a chance to win a cash prize (visit the Erie Canal Museum website for more details on entering). However you want to get involved, this is the perfect opportunity to lift up the holiday spirits and put you in the mood for wintertime.

Music to Your Ears

During your time at Syracuse University, you must check out the Landmark Theatre at least once. A historical piece of Syracuse, the theater showcases beautifully designed architecture. In the gloominess of this time of year, getting dressed up and having an elegant night out makes for the perfect medicine. This month, “The Nutcracker” will be playing on Sunday, Nov. 10. The theater is located on South Salina Street, in the hub of fun restaurants, so grab some friends and head downtown! Warning—restaurants book up like crazy on show days, so be sure to make a dinner (or pre-show lunch) reservation weeks in advance.

While I personally prefer the Landmark, a closer and equally as entertaining choice is Syracuse Stage. Bonus points for this theater being within walking distance from campus! The shows also sometimes feature fellow Syracuse University students, making your attendance even more worthwhile. Check out their upcoming shows and book your tickets for a lively night out.

Farewell Football

As we near the end of the semester, football season is sadly coming to an end. November brings the last few Syracuse games of this year. If you haven’t already, make sure to attend at least one game this season. Your absolute last chance is on Nov. 30, which will bring you a matchup of Syracuse Orange vs. the Miami Hurricanes. So, stop by the Syracuse University Campus Store to pick up some merch, buy your tickets and bleed orange alongside the Syracuse University football team!

Not to worry, if you aren’t able to make it to a football game, you have plenty of time to attend a basketball game. The season started Oct. 26 and carries into the spring semester (obviously with the peak being March Madness), creating countless opportunities for you to go and show your Syracuse University spirit.

Good luck to you all in the remainder of the semester, and remember to embrace all of Syracuse’s fall-time festivities.

P.S., Happy Halloween!

Written By Maggie Anderson ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.

Dorm-Friendly Fall Treats

With Thanksgiving Break around the corner and fall coming to an end within the next month, here are some quick and easy dorm-friendly sweet treats to try out—no special equipment required except for a microwave!

Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats

As college students, I know a lot of us prioritize those five minutes of extra sleep in the morning instead of grabbing breakfast on the go! This pumpkin spice oats recipe is sure to keep you satisfied and energized during 8 a.m. lectures while maintaining a delicious autumnal twist. Feel free to substitute the oats with granola or cereal, and the milk with Greek yogurt if you have enough time to make this meal fresh in the morning.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup of oats
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1/4 cup of (canned) pumpkin puree
  • 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon of assorted spices (cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon)
  • A pinch of salt
  • Toppings: raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, chia seeds

Instructions

  1. In a container, combine the oats, milk, pumpkin puree, syrup or honey of choice, spice mix and salt.
  2. Stir everything together.
  3. Refrigerate overnight.
  4. Add your toppings in the morning!

Cinnamon Mug Cake

A classic dorm room favorite, this warm cinnamon mug cake is the ultimate comfort food for late-night cravings. With its warm spiced aroma and soft, fluffy texture, this single-serving treat is ideal for those cozy moments when you need a little something sweet. Whether you’re pulling an all-nighter, winding down with a movie or just looking for a quick dessert fix, this cinnamon mug cake is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons of milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of self-rising flour

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients except the flour to a large, microwave-safe mug.
  2. Whisk with a fork until combined.
  3. Add the flour and mix again, making sure everything is incorporated.
  4. Microwave for 90 seconds.
  5. Add chocolate chips and/or icing as toppings, if desired, and enjoy!

Apple Crisp

This microwave apple crisp is a twist on the classic dessert, and a quick treat for when you’re craving a taste of fall. Made with tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices and topped with a buttery oat crumble, the dish comes together in minutes, and can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

  • 4 large Granny Smith apples—make sure these are cored, peeled and sliced!
  • 3/4 cup of quick-cooking oats
  • 3/4 cup of brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of allspice

Instructions

  1. In a microwave-safe dish, lay out the apple slices, ensuring they do not overlap.
  2. Mix together the oats, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, allspice and flour in a bowl until well combined.
  3. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple slices.
  4. Cook in the microwave for 10-12 minutes, checking in periodically—once the apples are easily pierced with a knife, they’re ready to eat!

Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites

The ultimate on-the-go snack to fuel your day, these apple cinnamon bites are packed with fiber, healthy fats and natural sweetness. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a post-workout boost or a midday pick-me-up, this snack delivers a burst of flavor and lasting energy. Make a batch ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for whenever hunger strikes!

Ingredients

  • 1 grated apple
  • 2 cups of oats
  • 1/4 cup of ground flaxseed
  • 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup of almond butter
  • 1/4 cup and 1 tablespoon of honey
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, flaxseed and cinnamon.
  2. In a separate bowl, stir together the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract and salt.
  3. Add this mixture to the large bowl of dry ingredients and combine.
  4. Add in the grated apple, integrating it into the batter.
  5. Scoop the mixture into small bite-sized portions and form them into balls.
  6. Place these into an airtight container and refrigerate.
  7. Chill overnight and eat in the morning!

Written By Ariya Kukreja ’28, School of Architecture