As Thanksgiving break quickly approaches, I’d like to take these last few days on campus to thank Tulane for being a most wild, enticing, and inspiring place. To be sitting in my dorm’s common room at the moment, laughing and yelling and listening to music with such infectious floor mates, feels quite surreal. Both living at Tulane and in New Orleans has been nothing short of an adventure, and I will surely miss all the school and city have to offer when making my return to chilly Boston.

1. Paterson House

I’m sure all Paterson residents can agree, when telling other Tulane students that they live in this small dorm behind Bruff, that the one response they never fail to hear is “oh.” Most people say this because a) they have no idea where Paterson is and b) Paterson usually isn’t recognized as an actual dorm at all. My humble abode is small, capped at around 150 students, and can never be seen with residents throwing beer bottles over the balconies...usually. The community of Paterson, however, has allowed me to be myself, unapologetically, and has introduced me to the best people bustling around Tulane. From having late-night conversations with my roommate in our very cold, and often smelly, room, to waking my floor mates from their naps on the common room couches at 2am, I feel confident in saying that Paterson House is the best dorm on campus.

2. District Donuts

Although I often hear from upperclassmen that the novelty of District Donuts soon wears off after freshman year, I feel no shame in reveling in its glory as long as I can. Located on Magazine Street, District Donuts offers the most delicious and unique treats at a fairly affordable price. After long walks on Magazine Street, exploring each boutique and coffee shop that line the sidewalks, my friends and I never fail to order brownie batter, s’mores, or coconut cream donuts with iced coffee. Twinkle lights and outdoor seating included, District Donuts makes NOLA brighter and sweeter.

3. Newcomb Quad

Newcomb Quad, in my opinion, is underrated. So many campus events take place on LBC Quad right across from the LBC and McAlister, but most people ignore the beauty and glory of Newcomb. All Tulane students need are a few friends, food, and a blanket to make the most of a mid-afternoon Newcomb Quad picnic, as well as homework in order to devise a relaxing study session. The sun shines through the trees each morning as I walk to my 8am classes, and although I feel exhausted, the sight of the greenery on Newcomb Quad lifts my groggy eyes ever-so-slightly. Thank you, Newcomb Quad, for making me feel thankful to live on a truly gorgeous campus.

I’ll see you soon, Tulane and NOLA!