Harvard campus

As I stepped off the Greyhound and into Boston, my face was immediately whipped by the cold air and I was overwhelmed by the smell of urine and inaudible shouts — we were definitely on the East Coast. A short Uber ride to Cambridge and the scene changed. It was more colorful: blue skies with red brick buildings, littered with well-kept green and pink rose bushes — we were definitely in Ivy League territory. The first thing I noticed about Harvard was that everyone has somewhere to be. Even if they are just walking to the bathroom, they have a determined go-getter look that is admirable yet terrifying — no doubt it’s what got them there.

Once settled, my host and friend, Gilbert Wassermann, who is an undergrad at Harvard, gave us a tour. The red brick theme continues throughout campus, and every building looks as if it were newly completed yesterday. With all of the busybodies rushing around everywhere, you really get a taste of the ambition and spirit of Harvard: hard-working and exciting. Of course, these girls and guys need a way to unwind and kick back. This is where we turned to the final club. Gilbert was a member of The Delphic, favorably called by his girlfriend as “The Dirty D.” One could assume from its fond nickname that the club is a bit of a squat. You would be wrong. The Delphic is a big house with two libraries, a squash court and an informal and formal dining hall that doubles as a ballroom. One of the clubs more notable members, Matt Damon, wrote “Good Will Hunting” in the Old Library. Our time at “The Dirty D” was fantastic — I would hate to divulge any details and ruin the next Mark Zuckerberg’s career prospects, but make no mistake, Harvard kids know how to party.

Boston

On our last day, we decided to explore the Freedom Trail. This is a trail marked by red bricks integrated into the sidewalk throughout Boston that passes by specific landmarks of the city. It is a fantastic way to get to know the city, and it’s also student friendly – i.e. free. Boston is a city rich in landmarks and history but famously poor in good weather, but luck was on our side and the sun shone throughout our walk. You may not be so lucky, so bring waterproof clothes and good shoes because you will be walking for at least four hours. My three favorite buildings in Boston are featured below.

Longfellow House

General George Washington’s HQ during the Siege of Boston

Old State House

The oldest public building in Boston, where the Declaration of Independence was first read to the Bostonians

Massachusetts State House

During WWII, this dome was painted black to stop reflections during blackouts