{shortcode-5998582ce3a8d5deb3310bc24ec5a6ca45db817d}Remy the Harvard Cat is a beloved celebrity on campus, but he often doesn’t get enough credit for how relatable he is. As you adjust back to school (and the excitement, stress, or nonexistent sleep schedule that may come with it), remember that Remy is here for you through whatever you’re feeling. Tag Yourself: Which Remy speaks to you today?
', [{shortcode-a41af266a01d417f86a5f9e6671a9b336843195b}After a six-week winter break, Harvard students returned to something unexpected: the renovation of Capital One Café.
\r\n\r\nCapital One Café (better known as Cap One Café) is our favorite corporate money making scheme. It’s just a coffee shop within the bank Capital One, and anyone who has a Capital One Card receives heavy discounts on their drinks. I know people who have opened an account with Capital One just to receive this discount, which illustrates just how much Harvard students run on caffeine. They also frequently offer $1 handcrafted drinks which always draws a line out the door… waiting in it is a canon event.
\r\n\r\nDid anyone know this makeover was coming? Did anyone know that we would return to a basically new café? This is almost as exciting as the opening of Faro or the new Starbucks in the Square.
\r\n\r\nIt was honestly a great surprise. Cap One Café wasn’t frequently on my coffee shop study spot rotation. But now? It might just be awarded a spot.
\r\n\r\nBefore break, Cap One Café was a… mediocre coffee shop to say the least. It was a bit dark and dank. The brick walls and black accents didn’t make for a very aesthetically pleasing environment to answer emails or to procrastinate starting an essay by planning your workout classes or social calendar. Because does one ever get real work done in a coffee shop? No.
\r\n\r\nIt’s no Blue Bottle, but Cap One Café’s relatively characterless interior got a makeover, replaced with neural gray and black tones with woody accents. The amount of small conference rooms have been depleted and replaced with more of an open concept plan, allowing more seating options. There are even couches!
\r\n\r\nAnother perk is that Cap One Café no longer brews Peet’s coffee and switched to Verve, so no longer do you need to clarify which Peet’s you’re referring to. Are you and your friend meeting at Cap One Peet’s or the ~real~ Peet’s next to Grendel’s? Confusion, be gone.
\r\n\r\nHonestly, I haven’t tried Verve yet so I can’t vouch for the quality, but there’s always people in there, so I guess it can’t be that bad? Either that or everyone’s just desperate for some form of caffeine. You can let me know.
\r\n\r\nI must lament, I wish the music was also renovated with the interior. Tate McRae and Spotify’s Today’s Top Hits do not promote my peak productivity. Maybe Cap One could take a page out of the Smith Center’s book and opt for some chill lofi? Before you laugh at me, I’m not advocating for a lofi rendition of the Little Mermaid, just something to curate better vibes.
\r\n\r\nWhile Cap One Café has yet to attain the status of a Faro or Blue Bottle (and never will — it’s a bank, after all), I do applaud this makeover. It was a fun surprise upon returning to campus, and hey, we gotta enjoy the little things!
', [{shortcode-1524e12cdd3ee8182e9ff013e56f32cbee6e5687} We all know that escaping Cambridge is the number one daydream of all Harvard students, especially when they’re trying to forget that winter break is sadly over. The semester is just starting, each class seems like a vast ocean that you may get lost in, and you haven’t attended office hours yet to check that your TF is actually fine with your tendency to be late to lecture. Don’t worry: there is a solution! Why stay here and get ahead of your reading, when instead you can explore a whole new world (a.k.a. the MBTA Purple Line)? In this listicle, immerse yourself in a place with no worries, assignments, or p-sets in your way — but don’t forget: all of these places exist in *gasp* real life and are just a train ride away!
\r\n\r\nTo get to the magical places of wonder and curiosity listed below, take the MBTA Purple Line (Commuter Rail) toward Newburyport/Rockport.
\r\n\r\n1) Gloucester, MA
\r\n\r\nAre you aching to stare into the coastal winds while sporting the largest scarf you own and contemplating a life at sea? It might be time to visit Gloucester, MA. During the summer (an equally valid time to go), this destination serves beachy, Lana Del Rey, cherry sundae, hot-girl-summer purposes. During the winter, however, is when your favorite film, The Lighthouse (2019) starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, really comes to life. Picture this: a frozen seaport, a glacial color scheme, snow, and storm clouds brewing — nothing more is necessary for a weekend of fun. We all know that all humanities majors go feral for Willem Dafoe, let alone a quick freaky-friday identity-switcheroo with Willem’s psyche. Discover your true fisherman persona and head on over to Gloucester. Don’t forget to pack your favorite pre-waterlogged book and some appropriate snacks (artisanal bread, tinned sardines, and an egregiously large quantity of cheese).
\r\n\r\nP.S. Don’t even worry — I don’t know how to pronounce Gloucester either! (Masshole editor’s note: it’s Glaw-ster.)
\r\n\r\n2) Manchester-By-The-Sea, MA
\r\n\r\nAre you a STEM concentrator in search of some time to contemplate life decisions? Perhaps you are trying to figure out the possibilities of an artsy humanities secondary? Manchester-By-The-Sea might be for you. Anyone with an ounce of mid-west nostalgia will love this one. Discover the world where American 90s rock bands were formed — right in your own backyard! The bleak-mid-winter vibes and fisherman town (hello Irish knit wool sweater) is really quite elusive. There are so many beaches, parks, and varieties of wildlife to see in this small town. To really deep dive into your trip planning, consider watching the film Manchester By the Sea (2016), well stocked with fun cast members like your favorite closeted character from Ladybird (Lucas Hedges).
\r\n\r\nBut I know what you’re thinking. Why would I want to go here if I could just go to Walden pond? Think about the introspection possibilities. The thoughtful gazes and perfect spots to read To The Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf. This is a stem major’s biggest opportunity to cosplay being a Hum 10 freshman — but just for one weekend!
\r\n\r\n3) Ipswich, MA
\r\n\r\nHave you not stopped listening to the melancholy Charlie Brown soundtrack all break? Do you love a period drama or a Jane Austen classic? Or maybe you recently were gifted a 20th-century-era scarf/hat/mitten set from your favorite aunt? It may be time to visit Ipswich, MA. Snowy trees, ice-skating, and unforgiving winds… Ipswich really has my own heart. The major intrigue is most definitely the castle! Yes, there is a castle. Talk about a daydream fairytale. Take a quick tour there and then make a quick stop in a cozy New England bookstore or coffee shop.
\r\n\r\nP.S. Take a peak at one of my personal favorite New England art pieces, Winter at Ipswich (1908) by Theodore Wendel, to get a glimpse of your weekend ahead of time.
\r\n\r\n4) Salem, MA
\r\n\r\nAre you a Comp Lit, History, or English concentrator? Or perhaps you haven’t yet grasped that Harvard is not, in fact, Hogwarts? Or maybe you just love Charmed and make claim to a slightly overdone 90’s flannel Sabrina the Teenage Witch lifestyle? Either way, please make your overdue plans come to life and head straight to Salem, MA. We know it's not Halloween, but that didn’t come in the way of Goody Proctor or Cotton Mather, did it? Salem is a cliffscape seaside town home to the House of the Seven Gables found in, you guessed it, the book The House of the Seven Gables by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Not only will your souvenirs curse your entire dorm building, but the cozy cafes and lovely seascape will really make your journey worth it. And don’t forget to recreate every one of your fave scenes from Hocus Pocus (1993) — it's a Salem classic.
\r\n\r\n5) Providence, RI
\r\n\r\nAre you feeling academically overwhelmed? Have you been feeling like it's time to outsource potential romantic relationships? It might be time to take a quick trip to Providence and visit your favorite ‘no grades and barely any assignments’ people that are still your age — Brown University students! This one doesn’t take much explanation, just grab a Brown pamphlet and explore like crazy in RI. Have fun!
\r\n\r\nPSA: You can get to Providence by taking the MBTA Purple Line south to Providence/Stoughton.
\r\n\r\nAnd, as you continue the semester, remember: sometimes it’s better to be sad somewhere else than to be sad here!
', [{shortcode-34768858a833dbbd0a697027688c2bb10f54b607} [A note for the reader: this was originally written on January 16.]
\r\n\r\nThough this is headlined as a hate letter to the snow, I want to begin by saying I love the snow. Growing up, I loved snow days (RIP to this new generation of Zoomers) and building snowmen with my older sister on our front porch. Snow is beautiful because it slows down time around us with each of its intricate six petaled crystallizations. But, oh boy, does it slow… down… time…, especially as I wait here in NYC’s LaGuardia Airport for my flight to campus that is now four hours delayed.
\r\n\r\nHonestly, it’s exciting — this is my first delayed flight, and I’ve never stayed in the airport this long before. I’ve already eavesdropped on countless conversations, watched exasperated people come and go, and observed how a stressed flight attendant handled a crowd of twenty anxious passengers.
\r\n\r\nLet’s start from the beginning.
\r\n\r\nIt all started last night, as I nervously watched the snow powder the ground from my window and said to my dad, “Oh boy, I hope the snow doesn’t affect my flight tomorrow.” Famous last words.
\r\n\r\nI arrive at the airport bright and early for my 10:15 a.m. flight (a.k.a. at 8:45 a.m.), and speed through TSA, narrowly avoiding a grumpy security officer. Bad omen #1.
\r\n\r\nThen, my bag gets pulled aside by a TSA officer. “You got chocolate in here?” he asks as he holds up a bag that does, in fact, contain chocolate bars and is also probably 50 pounds since I’m a chronic overpacker. “Yessir,” I sheepishly say, and he lets me through. Bad omen #2.
\r\n\r\nI lug my suitcase to my gate, happy I could finally sit down. That is, until I realize that the gate number has been changed to one at the opposite end of the building. Bad omen #3.
\r\n\r\nAll is relatively fine and dandy after that, until I get a notification on my phone that the flight has been delayed for an hour. Fine. I pull out my laptop and do some work (though not before letting my entire friend group know about my traveling woes). The problem wasn’t that first notification. It was the fifty notifications that followed it.
\r\n\r\nFlight is now departing at 11:30 a.m.
\r\n\r\nFlight is now delayed to a 12:00 p.m. departure.
\r\n\r\nNow delayed to 12:30 p.m.
\r\n\r\nNow delayed to 1:00 p.m.
\r\n\r\nBy this time, there is a long line of people frantically canceling their flight. The flight attendant makes an announcement.
\r\n\r\n“The plane coming from Boston to NYC still has not left its gate at Boston Logan Airport. We’re expected to be able to depart here at 1 p.m., but the plane will arrive at its NYC gate by 9:45 a.m.”
\r\n\r\nI check my phone. It’s 10:30 a.m. So I guess that plane is traveling back into time.
\r\n\r\nNow, I don’t have anything particularly scheduled for today, so I’m fine with chilling in the airport for a few hours. It's a mixture of sunk-cost fallacy and the fact that I work better with other people around me. But just in case, I approach the flight attendant manning the front desk.
\r\n\r\n“Hey, is it possible to rebook my flight?”
\r\n\r\n“I’m not sure.”
\r\n\r\n“What about canceling it? Will that incur fees?”
\r\n\r\n“I’m not sure.”
\r\n\r\n“Has the plane even left Boston yet?”
\r\n\r\n“I’m not sure.”
\r\n\r\nSo much uncertainty in this world. Not enough answers.
\r\n\r\nI wander back to my seat and realize that the people sitting around me an hour ago have been replaced by new faces. So either I’ve just got unparalleled persistence to getting on this plane, or too much free time on my hands. I also want to note: I do not need to be on this flight. I booked a flight a week earlier than the first day of classes purely for the vibes. So I acknowledge that the only person I have to blame is myself and my past self’s foolish, foolish desire to return to campus a week early.
\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, I’ve been stuck at home all of winter break, jealously watching as people on Instagram travel to different continents. Therefore, I’m desperate to engage with the outside world. The universe has delivered that exact wish to me at this moment.
\r\n\r\nThe conclusion to this saga is that my flight is finally on its way over from Boston, and I’m projected to depart at 2:30 p.m., hopefully ending my wait in this gray carpeted gate waiting area.
\r\n\r\nYes, I hate the snow right now. I’ve been waiting for my flight since 9 a.m., and it’s currently past 1 p.m. Yet, what better time to experience my first flight delay and deliver this article to our beautiful Flyby readers?
\r\n\r\nUpdate: We ended up taking off at 5 p.m., making the whole experience a seven hour delay for a mere 36 minute flight…
\r\n\r\nEve’s Addendum [January 21, 2024]: Reader, believe me when I say that when I first read Rachel’s wonderful article, I had no idea it would be an omen for me. But lo and behold, three days later, here I sit, stranded in the Chicago Midway (not even O’Hare!!!!!!) Airport waiting for a continuously delayed flight to Boston to return me from my little Radcliffe Choral Society tour of the South. And whose fault is that? The snow. The cold, wet, devious, downright malicious Boston snow. Take this as a lesson: merely THINKING about the possibility of snow can ruin your travel plans. Be careful: THIS COULD BE YOU.
', [{shortcode-cf050e27a69771feb92ba5b90a9ef05e9c2416e6} After the remarkable chaos that was fall semester, we flocked home with a new sense of perspective, knowledge, and perhaps more prominently, trauma. Like any good Harvard student (as if we had any choice), we took our thoughts to the one, the only, Q Guide. Later, while trying to enjoy the final moments of our winter break, Sidechat broke loose as word had spread that the long awaited Q Guide comments were released for this past semester — and I, for one, was thoroughly amused.
\r\n\r\nBeyond the insight and trauma dumps that the Q Guide offers, it also provides the beauty of anonymity, meaning all comments are as honest as it can get. Here are some of the wildest, unhinged, untamed, unfiltered comments from none other than your own peers who survived these classes. Who knows — that random person you routinely pass in the Yard could be the very victim author of these comments!
“Get help before you get sad” - LS1B
\r\n\r\nThis one hits a little too close to home. As a potential bio concentrator myself (it’s not looking too hot right now), I learned this lesson far too late in the semester. I cannot fathom how sad the pre-med breed has felt before getting help, or if they ever even got help. This is your sign!
\r\n\r\n“You will be maiden-less. If you have a significant other they will be complaining about all the time they are spending away from you and then break up with you. And then you will be maiden-less as well.” - CS124
\r\n\r\nBeing maiden-less is perhaps the scariest threat in this age. But then again, maybe it’s just the life of a CS concentrator.
\r\n\r\n“Switch to econ” - LS1A
\r\n\r\nThis is every STEM major after every midterm. In the semester of STEM classes I’ve taken so far, I can say that I’ve contemplated becoming an Econ concentrator more often than I have contemplated spending more money at CVS, a.k.a. far too many times. I did not choose the sell-out life, the sell-out life chose me!
\r\n\r\n“To get the most out of this class, commit to the “Cult50”; i.e., going to CS50 Lunches, CS50 Hackathon, CS50 study breaks with friends, and making memes of Professor Malan in the cold darkness of your dorm room.” - CS50
\r\n\r\nIn my small public high school, David Malan was a celebrity. We followed along with his online CS50 course during AP Computer Science Principles and ate up the theatrical productions of it all. CS50 has garnered quite a reputation, I’d say even a cult following, and this seems to be true — even if the cult spends most of their time in the “cold darkness of your dorm room” which is not depressing at all.
\r\n\r\n“if you take it with friends, it’s honestly a crack up and you will learn to love it but the first half is pain and suffering. then they trick you into love with the bbq at the end. honestly i loved this course. but i also hated it and it made me cry. but i’d do it again” - ASTRON2
\r\n\r\nWhat a ride! Celestial Navigation definitely received some chatter this past semester, and after reading this, I understand why. To take, or not to take this class, that is the question. Genuinely. I can’t tell if this class is being recommended or not but then again, they give you barbecue…
\r\n\r\n“This course being taught at Harvard is an embarrassment to John Harvard himself, who is probably rolling over in his grave over how terribly-taught this course is.” - STAT104
\r\n\r\nIn a battle between this comment roasting Stat104 or Stat104 doing John Harvard dirty, I truly would not be able to choose a winner. Let Mr. Harvard rest in peace!
\r\n\r\n“Taking this course is like hooking up with someone who’s bad at sex” - LS1B
\r\n\r\nIs any elaboration needed?
\r\n\r\nSo, as we venture bravely into this upcoming Spring semester and scramble to uproot our schedules too many times before the Add/Drop deadline (January 29!), I hope you have gathered some inspiration from these comments. And I truly hope that none of your classes leave you maiden-less.
', [{shortcode-1a817d5c9bdcac9668a4ee9f1999fe214622fcaa} If you don’t know by now that Flyby is always, ALWAYS listening… we don’t really know what to tell you. This FDOC (First Day of Class, if you live under a rock) was notable for the complete and total dejection present in the student body, but hopefully these quotes will at least make you feel less alone. Here are the best, most bonkers things we heard this snowy Monday.
\r\n\r\n“Wow, this guy is really loud.” – a professor, on the professor next door.
\r\n\r\n“You just sit here, and you get smarter just because of the people around you.” – an overly optimistic middle-aged man in Tatte.
\r\n\r\n(In response to sounds of talking next door) “Who’s throwing a party next door? And why weren’t we invited? And is there food…?” – a presumably hungry professor.
\r\n\r\n“Hi!!!!” – high-pitched, from a girl to her friend in the street.
\r\n\r\n“Hi!!!!” – a man passing by, in the same high-pitched voice.
\r\n\r\n“Blah blah blah, everything should be your own, cite your sources.” – a professor.
\r\n\r\n“Oh yeah, you BETTER cite your sources.” – a student who has read the news.
\r\n\r\n“I’ll admit, I didn’t know this myself. I had to ask ChatGPT.” – a course preceptor who apparently has not read the news.
\r\n\r\n“So, usually when professors go on sabbatical, they’re doing research or working with other professors, but uh, he’s just on a boat this year. You can track him with this link!” – a sadly landlocked substitute professor.
\r\n\r\n“I’m saying, everyone’s resolution was to save money by eating Berg food.” – someone standing in the longest Berg line since September.
\r\n\r\nAnd finally, in Widener, taking FDOC pictures:
\r\n\r\n“But I don’t have class until Wednesday.” – someone with a true galaxy brain.
\r\n\r\n“B*tch.” – someone who needs to take more classes so they can grow their brain to the same galactic size.
\r\n\r\n
\r\nIf you also overheard any of these, you’re basically a Flyby Blog writer now… so why not comp Flyby this Spring?
{shortcode-1dd6af07a88be3a09290b62b95ebc6d245462251} As Harvard students return to humanity after hibernating for the last month, the spring semester could unfold in many directions. Whether you want to be an academic weapon or an actual loose cannon, Flyby has some tips for you on how to become the most chaotic version of yourself this semester.
\r\n\r\nGoogle Calendar Chaos
\r\n\r\nDepending on your lifestyle, this semester could go one of two ways: scheduling everything or scheduling nothing.
\r\n\r\nAs someone who meticulously curated the perfect g-cal color palette last semester, I can tell you: if you’re aiming to become the most productive version of yourself this semester, block out time for everything. Schedule time to study, socialize, fold laundry — you name it.
\r\n\r\nDoes my calendar make people gasp every time I open it in public? Sure. But I also struck the impossible balance between staying on top of my work, having a social life, and getting a decent amount of sleep.
\r\n\r\nHaters are gonna hate, but this method works. You’ll never find yourself scrambling to finish a p-set again.
\r\n\r\nAlternately, if you want to mellow yourself out this semester, only schedule classes and meetings on your g-cal — never anything else. If you can’t see the little colorful square, the commitment doesn’t exist.
\r\n\r\nWith all of the time in the world on your g-cal, you can live in stress-free bliss. Time is a construct anyway: getting to class on time is a myth.
\r\n\r\nBreakfast Chaos
\r\n\r\nYou may be asking: how could a run-of-the-mill breakfast be chaotic? I’m a strong believer that your approach to your first meal of the day reveals more than your zodiac sign ever could.
\r\n\r\nThis semester, you can be the trooper who treks to Annenberg or Quincy House every morning at 8 a.m. to make yourself the most glorious buffet of HUDS offerings possible. I’m talking danishes, first picks at the fresh fruit, and sufficient time to actually enjoy your breakfast. If you want to be the most put together person that everyone in your friend group aspires to be, do this. Consistency is key to make this impressive.
\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, you could be the person who buys a box of breakfast bars or yogurts and constantly runs to your 9 a.m. with a granola bar and coffee in hand. Did you wake up late, do you just want to be the first one to class, or are you an early riser who has already had an entire morning? The world will never know, and now you seem mysterious to your new classmates. This option is time-efficient and gives you an enigmatic persona. You will be everyone’s section crush.
\r\n\r\n“Let’s grab a meal sometime!”
\r\n\r\nHear me out before you laugh at me. This phrase is pretty inescapable and self-explanatory, but you can use it in one of two ways.
\r\n\r\nYou could make an effort to actually follow up and sit down for lunch or dinner with different friends, new classmates, maybe even a Classroom-to-Table with a professor at least three times a week. The key to this is offering it proactively and always listening to understand rather than to reply. Be chaotic, and turn into a meal extrovert. Everyone will wonder, “How do they know EVERYONE?!” Lunch, that’s how.
\r\n\r\nThe flip side of this is becoming the person who is all talk, offering to “grab a meal” but never meaning it. Who are you? Oh, nobody knows. But you ostensibly have a full schedule, which by Harvard logic means you are very cool.
\r\n\r\nBy following these short steps, you can transform into a more chaotic version of yourself for the spring semester and beyond, keeping yourself and the rest of campus on their toes…
', [{shortcode-4eb7f816207759fc3ab325f88c40d0156502f963}
\r\n\r\nHello our flovely readers,
\r\n\r\nAre we perhaps using this piece as our unofficial official closeout to Flyby Blog’s readership? Maybe… But who’s going to stop us? (Potentially the managing editor, BLK, but he’s been a real one all year so if you’re reading this, he has once again pulled through and made Flyby Blog proud.)
\r\n\r\nWow.
\r\n\r\nIt’s crazy to think that we’ve survived spent a year in chairship — and what a year it’s been. As a blog, our content has grown so much. But more importantly, our community has also grown larger and closer together, and there’s nothing else in the world we would trade our flyfam for — and yes, that includes not even all the Trader Joe’s snacks for all of eternity.
We both feel extremely fortunate and lucky to have led as Blog Chairs this year, and we couldn’t have done it without our infinitely talented and amazing board members, editors, and writers. Without all your hard work, how else would Flyby be a finalist for ACP - 2023 Multimedia Story of the Year: Blog? Give yourself all a round of applause and take a bow; there’s so much flove to go around.
\r\n\r\nAs we look forward into 2024, we’re so excited to see what the next year has in store. Asides from our hope for Harvard’s resolutions for the new year, we’re also manifesting a lot for the future of Flyby.
\r\n\r\nFirstly, we’re so thrilled to hand off the torch to the next Blog Chairs, ESJ and HRO, as well as to the rest of the incoming Blog masthead. Especially over the past year, we have seen you all improve so much as both writers and editors, and you have all brought so much character to this blog. We couldn’t be more confident in all of you to continue Flyby’s legacy and its reputation of chaos and fun.
\r\n\r\nSecondly, as our incoming managing editor MJH says best — Flyby Blog is public service journalism at its finest. Just this year, we’ve published a few essential how-to guides. We wrote a few odes, interviewed our classmates and even a founder of our new local coffee shop. In 2024, we’ll be back bigger than ever, ready to combat all the hard-hitting journalism that is expected of us. Should we rank the sidewalks of Harvard’s campus? Need us to try the new Van Leeuwen Ice Cream shop coming to the Square? Have a question for our Dear Flyby advice column? We’re here for you.
\r\n\r\nThirdly, we’re just hoping for ~good vibes~ for this next year — for Flyby, for The Crimson, for everyone. Whatever happens, we trust it’ll be amazing. And we’ll be watching proudly (and well-rested) from lovely dinoland.
\r\n\r\nWe could go on and on about what we’re hoping for 2024, so we won’t — at least not for this piece. But before we end, we want to send one last shout-out to show our appreciation for the people that make this all possible: you. Our readers, every single last one, all 14,426 subscribers of Harvard Today — from our fellow writers to our classmates’ grandparents to prospective students to my mentor studying abroad in Oxford. You guys are the reason why Flyby Blog was able to grow from a side hobby in 2008 to the fully-fledged board of the Harvard Crimson that we are today. For that, thank you, and we hope that you’ll keep reading us in 2024 — and beyond.
\r\n\r\nFlove (always),
\r\n\r\nTC & HR (the duo known as HT)
', [{shortcode-c3da5ceeefd368e157c905a0ebd8c585e0b064c0}If there’s one thing I’ve taken out of 2023, it’s my new coping mechanism: making a playlist for every major or minor inconvenience in my life. To that end though, let’s wrap up the year with a banger or two. Here’s Flyby’s playlist that manifests good vibes only for the new year, though we welcome new surprises too ;).
\r\n\r\n{shortcode-cb123777be9bc575e165694ed795867dec983dd5}
', [{shortcode-124191819a37bbe4d741709aa0e42a7b99154524}As the semester winds down and we reflect on the past few months, we also have new hopes and aspirations for the upcoming semester. Good grades, clear skin, mental stability — the basic things every college student desires. But there’s so much more that the semester can offer us, and we’re going to manifest every single one of them true.
\r\n\r\nYARD FEST: The bread and butter pickles and like, any artist at this point?
\r\n\r\nIf you haven’t had the pleasure of consuming the bread and butter pickles they serve at Yard Fest every year, we manifest that you will get a taste next semester. Yes, this is important enough to warrant an entire section dedicated to it. The tartness and sweetness combined with its perfect crunch makes for an earthshattering experience. As for the artist, we would be grateful for anyone who would be willing.
\r\n\r\nA section crush
\r\n\r\nRaise your hand if you have a love life. Notice how you’re not raising your hand? Yeah, you and us both. But that’s all going to change next semester when the section crush of your dreams walks into your conveniently timed section. Do they play a sport? Do they have the voice of an angel? Are they a section kid? (Probably not.) No matter what you’re looking for, we are manifesting that we will all finally have a reason to go to section.
\r\n\r\nFree laundry
\r\n\r\nWhat comes to mind when we say “free laundry”? Not Harvard. But with our manifestation powers, we’re going to finally make it happen. We will no longer be held back by Crimson Cash. We will be free… just like our laundry.
\r\n\r\nT rides
\r\n\r\nSpeaking of things that should be free, why stop at just laundry? We’re also manifesting for subsidized T rides. Maybe then we’ll be able to expand our dating pool, remember what happiness feels like burst the Harvard bubble and start to explore everything Boston has to offer (or at least someplace other than the Square).
No Friday Sections
\r\n\r\nNo explanation needed. We think we’re all manifesting for no Friday sections.
\r\n\r\n‘Curious George’ merch store to come back
\r\n\r\nLegend has it, there was a “Curious George” merch store in the Square. Though it is no longer with us, we feel its ghost haunt us every time we walk past another [redacted] merch store. “Curious George” merch store, you were ahead of your time. We are finally ready for you, so please come back. We’re manifesting for your return.
\r\n\r\nBrain break over the weekend
\r\n\r\nPersonally, our brains need a break every day of the week. We will take bagels and cream cheese or even off-brand cereal if it means we have an excuse to stop catching up on work for 10 minutes. Though, of course, we’re manifesting for something a little bit more extravagant (Charcuterie anyone?).
\r\n\r\nTo be honest, there are so many more things we could manifest. Manifestation is a team effort. So, we are counting on you to look out for 11:11’s, get your manifestation journals ready, and most importantly, stay delusional.
', [{shortcode-cb30c4dfef875e734849467e9c08087276f834c5}With the cold weather settling in and exam season upon us, we could all use a little pick-me-up with our morning coffee. Here at Flyby, our trusty writers set out to try the newest (and some classic) seasonal drinks so you know exactly what to order the next time you need to take a study break from Widener and grab some extra motivation in Harvard Square. You’re welcome :)
\r\n\r\nStarbucks Gingerbread Latte
\r\n\r\nEKR: Honestly, I had high hopes for this one after hearing great things, but I was sadly let down. I opted for only one pump of gingerbread syrup (in lieu of the default three) and boy was I glad. Tbh, I could’ve done with zero pumps. What I learned is that I’m simply not a fan of gingerbread, and next time I should try the Almond Sugar Cookie Latte instead…
\r\n\r\nESD: What I learned is that I’m simply one of the biggest fans of gingerbread, and this drink is that perfect holiday spice.
\r\n\r\nStarbucks Peppermint Mocha
\r\n\r\nEKR: A tried and true classic that I will never get tired of. Whenever I order one of these, I have to slow myself down or else I’ll down the whole thing in three minutes. Coffee, peppermint, and chocolate? I don’t think there’s any better combination.
\r\n\r\nESD: Starbie’s Peppermint Mocha 🤝“All I Want For Christmas” for the holiday vibes. There’s nothing like it. Chef’s kisses all around.
\r\n\r\nCold Brew with Peppermint Chocolate Cream Mocha Cold Foam
\r\n\r\nEKR: Let me begin by letting it be known that I am a HUGE fan of Starbucks cold foam. In the summer, I practically lived on cold brew with sweet cream vanilla cold foam. So, when I heard that Starbucks was announcing FOUR new seasonal cold foams (peppermint chocolate, sugar cookie, chestnut praline, and caramel brulee), I was ecstatic. As noted above, I love any peppermint and chocolate combinations, so I was naturally inclined to test out the peppermint chocolate cold foam on my cold brew on a not-too-cold-for-an-iced-drink winter morning.
\r\n\r\nAnd… I loved it.
\r\n\r\nI must admit that it is REALLY sweet and I had to scoop out a few spoonfuls to tone it down and retrieve some cold brew flavor. But, it was the perfect blend of peppermint and chocolate mixed into my cold brew. I think it definitely requires a strong coffee flavor underneath (i.e. not a milked-down iced latte) to balance out the sweetness, but I absolutely recommend it.
\r\n\r\nL.A. Burdick’s Hot Chocolate
\r\n\r\nEKR: Okay okay, I know it’s not necessarily a ~seasonal~ drink, but I tend to equate hot chocolate with the holidays, so I found it fitting to include. This is hands down the best hot chocolate in Harvard Square. Maybe even in Boston.
\r\n\r\nESD: Definitely in Boston. Beats the $12 Seaport hot cocoa any day.
\r\n\r\nEKR: It’s practically a melted chocolate bar in a cup. So ooey. So gooey. So warm and the perfect treat to warm you right up during finals. It’s overpriced, but so is everything in Harvard Square. Take any friends or family you might have in town and I promise it’ll be a hit.
\r\n\r\nESD: Second everything above. For the vegans / lactose-intolerant out there, the almond milk dark chocolate is out of this world. However, we don’t recommend shelling out the extra money for the spicy hot chocolate, which doesn’t have enough of a kick to be worth it.
\r\n\r\nHappy holidays, and happy studying!
', [{shortcode-33639451537810ddbd1a0577095b462a72e35b56}Flyby Blog is obviously the #1 bringer of cheer to Harvard (you know this, because you’re reading us right now). Last year, we went trick-or-treating, and during our rounds, someone suggested we come back for caroling — and even said she’ll give us hot cocoa. And if there’s one thing about Flyby, it’s that we take suggestions from our audience. So, of course, we had to spread holiday cheer on a very cold Thursday by caroling with our very own Harvard carols. Feel inspired? Follow along to see how it went.
\r\n\r\nBefore the Carols
\r\n\r\n{shortcode-7a92b0952f418ae3f10dd492a127788ef208ecd7}So, it’s really hard to coordinate a lot of very busy blog writers during finals. We knew this, but we didn’t really KNOW this until we tried to make a group chat and everyone had “finals” and “papers” and “other things to do.” We also didn’t really know if caroling entailed standing in one place and singing, or whether we would be going door-to-door. Bothering freshmen in their dorms was raised as an option, as was stalking Khurana to his home by Pfoho. But ultimately we decided we didn’t want to have to look our audience in the eyes as they stood awkwardly on the threshold of their homes and internally begged for us to leave. So we chose to post up at the Science Center Plaza and just sing our little hearts out there.
\r\n\r\nWe managed to scrounge up three of us to go to the Science Center Plaza as the sun was setting at… 4 p.m…. Things were not
\r\n\r\nThe Caroling
\r\n\r\n{shortcode-856943f0b936b18de9c870825de28b3c75ab0cc0}In fact, we almost bailed on the idea of caroling completely. But, in the name of Flyby and of sound journalism, we knew we had to commit ourselves. And so we did. In front of a massive crowd of adoring fans and spectators, we sang our very own Harvard carols as well as the first verse to “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” (that Tina claimed she did not know the lyrics to). What we really mean by “massive crowd of adoring fans and spectators” is one dude biking past us on his way to Berg and the Science Center Plaza food truck staff who were packing up for the day.
\r\n\r\n{shortcode-028a9ad1a5790c98a8d5efebe42e727a63532f4e}
\r\n\r\nAfter the Carols
\r\n\r\nAfter about five minutes of “singing” in the cold (and after taking enough photos to document our caroling attempt) we were feeling pretty accomplished. So obviously, we had to treat ourselves to some fancy hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick. In our objective opinion, it was a job well done, followed by a treat well deserved. Hard work pays, and so does the Flyby credit card.
\r\n\r\n{shortcode-7f5c8531f92159aec86cadcc4de6e85dd34f5c6b}
\r\n\r\nFlyby definitely tried to go Christmas caroling. But we definitely also failed to go Christmas caroling. Maybe we’ll try again next year. Fa la la la la, la la la la.
', [{shortcode-f44017f85681d72819d57792d1d7530b3265c0ea}It’s the holiday season again (at least in the commercial sense), which means it’s time to break out the holiday carols. Not just any holiday carols though. This year, Harvard needs some carols of its own. So, yet again, Flyby sees where help is needed and carries the Harvard community on our backs.
\r\n\r\nDeck the Halls
\r\n\r\nDeck the halls with pubbing flyers
\r\n\r\nFa la la la la, la la la la
\r\n\r\nFar more times than is required
\r\n\r\nFa la la la la, la la la la
\r\n\r\nSend we now our spammy emails
\r\n\r\nFa la la, la la la, la la la
\r\n\r\nWith the time and place and details
\r\n\r\nFa la la la la, la la la la
\r\n\r\nWe Wish You
\r\n\r\nWe wish you a Sundae Sunday,
\r\n\r\nWe wish you a Sundae Sunday,
\r\n\r\nWe wish you a Sundae Sunday,
\r\n\r\nAnd a canceled Monday class!
\r\n\r\nCarol of the Bells
\r\n\r\n*insert Lowell on a random Sunday at an unpredictable time*
\r\n\r\nLet It Snow
\r\n\r\nOh the weather outside is gloomy
\r\n\r\nAnd the snow days now are Zoom-y
\r\n\r\nBut since the climate has changed
\r\n\r\nNow it’s strange, weather’s strange, winter’s strange.
\r\n\r\nHanukkah oh Hanukkah
\r\n\r\nHanukkah oh Hanukkah
\r\n\r\nAgain during finals.
\r\n\r\nLet’s have a party!
\r\n\r\nWait, we can’t, it’s finals.
\r\n\r\nGather round the table,
\r\n\r\nI’ll give you a test.
\r\n\r\nPsets for the STEMers,
\r\n\r\nPapers for the rest.
\r\n\r\nLast Christmas
\r\n\r\nLast Christmas, you gave me my grade
\r\n\r\nAnd the very same day, killed my GPA.
\r\n\r\nThis year, to save me from tears,
\r\n\r\nI’m taking the class pass/fail.
\r\n\r\nSing these outside the Science Center, experience catharsis, go viral, and have a great end to the semester!
', [{shortcode-49372ef0d8b47a9c8cc6ece64c5736fb103f8431}
\r\n
As a non-devout Hindu New Englander, Christmas has quickly become my favorite secular holiday of the year. From projecting green and red snowflakes on my childhood rooftop to decorating dozens of cookies for my best friends, I have always found a few ways to embrace the holiday spirit and waste away my winter break. If you fear the residual boredom of returning to your childhood bedroom or are racking your brain to find ways to deck the halls from your dorm room, here are a couple of ways to embrace the holiday cheer wherever you're parked this winter season.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCurate that Christmas Playlist
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe minute Mariah Carey releases her iconic “It’s timeeee” on Nov. 1, an army of holiday songs and Christmas lyrics are summoned into every aspect of music-listening. I have great news for you: there’s a sappy song for every holiday occasion and style. From Spotify shuffles of Michael Buble’s mellow hits to the cultural phenomenon of Justin Bieber’s “Drummer Boy,” there is a Christmas jingle to fit everyone’s fancy. For me, the holiday season is an excuse to defrost one of my favorite George Michael masterpieces —“Last Christmas” — second only to cult classic “Careless Whisper.” Open Spotify (or if you’re ~not like other girls~, open Apple Music) and shuffle around the wintery songs of your childhood! You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how many of them you already know.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nUgly Sweaters and Fuzz Socks
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLet’s be real for a second: the best part of the cold weather is normalizing eating, sleeping, and breathing in the most heinous, yet incredibly comfortable, articles of clothing to exist. It’s time to pull out that crusty sweater from middle school, with a fading vinyl sticker of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and melt into the fleece-lined inside. I also encourage you to explore the extensive collection of fuzzy red, green, and white long socks available on Amazon as we speak.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGift Yourself… You Deserve It
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe end of giving thanks makes way for my favorite era, the season of gifting. But let me give you some important advice: The only way to ensure that something is done right is to do it yourself. If you want that lipstick, don’t leave it up to your dad — sorry “Santa” — to differentiate cranberry and mauve. Plus, after months of midterms and two weeks straight of relentless exams and research, you could use a little something-something to celebrate. Is there a better time to empty your Amazon cart?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEmbrace the Hallmark Cliche
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAny book and movie lover knows that no human experience spurs more creativity for romance writers than the holiday season… relax, I’m kidding. Choose from the strangely enormous selection of rich girls getting humbled by cowboys in their dandy holiday hometowns or get whisked away by an undercover prince from a vaguely Eurasian country seeking a haircut. Live out your holiday romance pipe dreams vicariously through Netflix while nursing a cup of hot cocoa.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWinter is for Baking
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThere’s got to be at least half a dozen TV shows dedicated to yule log cakes, snowflake sugar cookies, and gingerbread men. Knead all of your residual frustrations about lazy TFs, unnecessarily long finals, and Harvard ops, into that loaf of Pumpernickel bread. If you consider yourself a drink sommelier, perfect that ratio between Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa and steaming milk to achieve that dhall-level finesse of the ultimate holiday drink. Regardless of what you choose to mix up, take this break as an opportunity to reset your mind and fill up your stomach.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThere you have it, five ways to embrace (or waste) the month you have off from the mindless machine of the Harvard bubble. Whether you choose to escape into hallmark cliche-land or finally try that ultra-complicated swiss roll recipe, I wish you the best of luck as you make this holiday season your own.
', [{shortcode-f0b7f3c3b6d946da8c835a5ae7bb080dcd91139d}
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHanukkah is… sigh… during finals again. Which means that rather than being home for the holiday, we have to either schlep to a building that’s allowed to have candles or break some rules and light the candles in our dorms (NOT A FLYBY-SANCTIONED OPTION). But let’s be real, holidays are holidays mostly because of the holiday food. So, from a Boston native, here’s where to get your Hanukkah food fix this December.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMamaleh’s — Kendall Square
\r\n\r\nMamaleh’s latkes are almost definitely the best combination of good and close we have. You get three crispy latkes plus sour cream and applesauce in each order. Better than that time HUDS put potato shreds in the regular pancake mix and called it a day, that’s for sure. Also, wrong holiday, but their matzah ball soup is SO GOOD when you’re sick. Bonus: you get to go sneer at the inferior MIT students.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBlackbird Donuts — Harvard Square
\r\n\r\nThey did sufganiyot last year, so they’ll probably do it again! They also do challah for pick-up year-round, with a different flavor every week. Love a donut, and especially love a donut you can eat on your way back from your finals while sort of crying a little bit.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nZaftigs — Brookline
\r\n\r\nThey’re juuuuuust within delivery range, and they do great kugel/blintzes/etc. I like them year-round, but maybe that’s because I’m geographically biased (I’m from Brookline). Big fan of their smoked salmon-loaded latkes, even though they’re a splurge.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDunkin’ — Harvard Square and also everywhere
\r\n\r\nOk, hear me out. Classic sufganiyot are great, but also sometimes you’re getting your coffee and want to get into the spirit. If you can’t get fresh sufganiyot, a Dunkin’ jelly donut always hits the spot, to be honest. I always feel a little guilty, but come on! Less than $2!
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCVS —Harvard Square and also everywhere
\r\n\r\nC’mon. Get your gelt. Don’t be picky about it. Peel back that tinfoil and enjoy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHopefully this helps ease the homesickness a bit. Light those candles, spin that dreidel, and don’t let the finals get you down!
', [{shortcode-891466e0f74b93570fd3b6e27decda2be84e2fdc}
\r\n\r\nYou did it, Joe! You somehow engineered your finals schedule so that you’re done by Dec. 11. Or you’re getting completely bodied by back-to-back finals (sorry, pre-meds). Either way, finals season coincides with Boston’s most festive time of the year, with events to boot. If you’re looking for ways to infuse yourself with some holiday cheer (read: stop being an academic zombie) or to procrastinate on studying Chem 17, Flyby’s got your back.
\r\n\r\nON YOUR DOORSTEP
\r\n\r\nIf you’re at Jefe’s at 2 a.m. after River East formal, you have no excuse for not trying at least one of these.
\r\n\r\nL.A. Burdick (Harvard Square)
\r\n\r\nWell, duh. Bring your newly cuffed SO (or your mom… or your single self) to this cute spot for the creamiest hot chocolate! No further explanation needed.
\r\n\r\nHarvard Square Holiday Fairs (One Brattle Square)
\r\n\r\nIf you’re one of the unlucky souls stuck with a final on the 20th (the literal last day of finals because the Registrar’s Office hates you), the stars are finally aligning for you: While everyone else hops on early flights (or drives) back home, you’ll get a perfect dose of holiday charm by attending the Harvard Square Holiday Fair (12/15 to 12/17 and 12/21 to 12/23) instead of studying. Housed in One Brattle Square (the building across from Felipe’s), Harvard Square Holiday Fairs brings together local vendors and craftspeople just in time for the holidays!
\r\n\r\nBow Market (Somerville)
\r\n\r\nThough open all year, Bow Market comes to life in the holiday season with festive events and picturesque lights. Besides, we know that you haven’t left your favorite Cabot study carrel long enough to visit the Market this semester anyway, so you might as well visit it now. It’s just a short 25-minute walk from the Yard, and you can pair it with a delicious bite afterward in Somerville’s Union Square!
\r\n\r\nReal Women Have Curves (Loeb Drama Center)
\r\n\r\nDo you miss having pubs for student musical productions in your inbox? If so, the American Repertory Theater is more than happy to help you scratch that itch with the Dec. 14 premiere of “Real Women Have Curves,” based on the play by Josefina López that inspired HBO’s film of the same name. Maybe say it’s based on a movie to cover our bases?
\r\n\r\nBURST THE BUBBLE
\r\n\r\nThe T or Uber ride separating you from these attractions might seem like a sign to actually study, but a break (from your books, and from everything Harvard) will probably make you more productive. Peer pressure a friend or two to ditch their study plans for something much more enjoyable outside the Harvard bubble!
\r\n\r\nHoliday Bar at Loco Taqueria (Fenway)
\r\n\r\nForget your problems and get yo drink on at Loco Taqueria in Fenway, which turns into a holiday-themed bar fit for any hard-working elf and/or student.
\r\n\r\nThe Nutcracker (Downtown Crossing)
\r\n\r\nTo be honest, I’ve only ever seen the Barbie adaptation, but it’s never too late to see the real deal. The quality of HUDS fare might make it difficult to fathom a Kingdom of Sweets, but the performance should be surprisingly relatable as its heroine, Clara, faces off against an army of mice only twice as terrifying as the one invading your dorm room. (Too bad Clara has a Nutcracker Prince to defend her against the mice and you don’t, but at least you’re equally delulu because she literally falls in love with a boy toy.)
\r\n\r\nSoWa Winter Festival (South End)
\r\n\r\nRunning Thursday through Sunday until Dec. 17, the SoWa Winter Festival is the perfect opportunity to make some decisions you might regret as you spend your time and money exploring booths featuring some of the area’s finest small businesses. Aesthetic Insta photos (to make everyone on your spam question how much time you’ve spent studying) are guaranteed. It costs $10 to get in, but if you love cute stuffed ornaments, it’s worth it!
\r\n\r\nSnowport Holiday Market (Seaport)
\r\n\r\nThat $12 hot chocolate hits different when you’re amidst the cheery decor of Snowport. Yeah, you might be spending $15 on a candle. No, you don’t really need a Christmas sweater that has BOTH the Celtics AND the Bruins on it. But hey, what’s the point of holiday procrastination if you don’t make one slightly questionable purchase along the way?
\r\n\r\nWhether your reading period schedule is so barren it’s attracting tumbleweeds or crammed with formals to the exclusion of study time, we hope these happenings in your backyard (and a wee bit beyond it) help you find a balance between hitting the books and hitting the streets.
', [