Introduction
Despite YYGS being an academically intensive program, you will still have plenty of free time. When I arrived at YYGS, I wasn’t sure how to spend all this time, but that changed as the program went on. Here are five fun and useful ways I found to spend my time at Yale:
Explore the Colleges
Yale’s colleges are filled with places to explore and hang out. Pierson College, where I stayed, had a library room that I often visited to work on program materials or simply de-stress. If you prefer a livelier atmosphere, head to the buttery on the lower floor to sit and chat with people, or visit the game room to play ping-pong, pool, or card games. Each college has a common room where various discussions take place, and if you enjoy the outdoors, the courtyard is always buzzing with activity.
Go Out
If you’re looking for places to go nearby, New Haven has plenty to offer. The dining hall is good, but nothing beats Connecticut-style pizza or Ashley’s ice cream. If you’re not in the mood for food, there are numerous stores to explore where you can either shop or simply hang out with friends. The Yale University Art Gallery is also a great option, showcasing fascinating artworks that make for an excellent afternoon, even if you’re not an art enthusiast.
Explore the Libraries
Yale’s libraries are unique and fascinating to explore. Their vast size means you could spend a whole day wandering through them and still not see everything. Furthermore, each library has its own distinct architectural style, making for a unique viewing experience. The Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, with its shelves of old books protected by glass and the Gutenberg Bible on display, is a must-visit and a special experience even if you’re not keen on reading.
Prepare for Lectures, Seminars, and Discussions
Many seminars have pre-reading materials. Spending time on these readings can greatly enhance your understanding and participation in discussions. The more prepared you are, the more you will get out of these sessions, and writing a few notes beforehand helped me stay on top of the large volume of content discussed, making the sessions more enriching and enjoyable.
Find New People to Talk To
One of the most valuable aspects of YYGS is the diverse perspectives you encounter from people worldwide. Striking up conversations with people in your dorm or in common areas is a surefire way to make new friends or learn new things. Most attendees are friendly and eager to share their viewpoints, and many conversations drastically changed my perspectives, making them much more nuanced.
Conclusion
This is by no means a comprehensive list of ways to spend your time at Yale. When you go, you will surely find all sorts of other activities to do outside of this list. However, if you’ve just arrived at Yale or find yourself with ample time, this is a good place to start looking!
Rajorshi, YYGS 2024, USA