Gabriela Jimenez

I love going on walks by myself or with friends! It’s a great way to take a break from work or to just clear my head. There are great walking paths on and off campus. One of the most popular on campus would be the walk around Occom pond otherwise known as a Woccom (walk+Occom). I usually grab a smoothie from Collis (the center for student involvement has dining options!) and walk around Occom with a friend. It's a great way to get outside and switch up your routine!

I have recently been going to Triathlon practices and I have loved it! I am not a huge fan of exercising alone so this has been perfect for me! So far I’ve been on a beautiful river loop run and an exhilarating spin class. If you are looking for a flexible way to exercise and socialize with cool and welcoming people I would definitely recommend it. Last week I went to an open dance rehearsal. I’ve never actually danced seriously so it was an experience. I am super glad I went though. I think college is all about trying new things and seeing what new things you want to participate in to keep yourself as active as possible. I just joined intramural soccer, and it's actually so fun just playing recreationally. I play for my house (West house, the Best house) and we had our first game last Friday. It’s a great way to meet people and participate in something with very low commitment on campus. 

I know I’ve raved about the river A LOT but it truly is so amazing that you can walk down some steps and have access to Dartmouth's luxurious beach. It is so fun going down to take a dip with some friends or even tan on the dock by yourself. It might be getting colder but I will definitely still be hanging down there. Snagging a takeout box from Foco (our dining hall) and eating dinner at a picnic table while taking in the view is a great way to mix up your routine.

I have to confess that I do not have my license (not even my permit!). As a city kid I never needed to drive anywhere. With Dartmouth being so campus oriented, I thought I wouldn't need to drive here either. You don’t really need to know how to drive here, it's just a luxury to know someone with a car or have a Zip Car membership! My parents only move the car when it's necessary in the city. So when someone asked if I wanted to “go for a drive”, I asked where we were going. The concept of just driving to drive is foreign to me, but it has actually become one of my favorite things to do. I love being a passenger princess, having control of the aux, and looking out the window to take in the beautiful Upper Valley (I am especially excited for the amazing fall foliage). Bottom line: learn how to drive or tag along with friends who drive!!

Spice up your eating habits and grab a meal in town! I went with my friends to Han Fusion last week, and it was delicious! I think everyone appreciated grabbing something new and fresh.