Randomly Cheap, Randomly Fun

So you work hard all week at work or in class and most of the weekend too. You need a little bit of free time to play and relax. But you need to do it cheaply. Here are some random things to do around Boston when you decide you need a break from the mayhem that is your grad school life.

· Bookstores. It doesn’t sound like much, but most of the grad students I know would kill to have time to just stroll around a bookstore and peruse the goods. Granted, we can’t really afford to buy too many things. But if you really want to buy some reading material (and put it away for when you have time to read after graduation), join the Border’s mailing list. They send out great coupons all the time.

· Arnold Arboretum. A beautiful arboretum (collection of trees…don’t feel bad, I definitely just looked this up to help explain it) randomly located in Boston. It covers a large area and contains all kinds of plant collections and gardens. There are various paths you can take for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the view. Grab some buddies and take advantage of nature, right in the city. Here’s the link if you’re interested: http://www.arboretum.harvard.edu/

· Museum of Fine Arts. You’re in Boston, you’re a student, you have to check it out at some point. Especially because since you are a student, you get a discounted rate, BOO YEAH! So hit up the Arboretum on a nice day, and pop into the MFA on a rainy one. The perfect plan. Check out http://www.mfa.org/ for more details.

· Harvard Square. So I realize this one isn’t very specific but there is always something going on in Harvard Square in Cambridge. For example, until August 2, there is a free art exhibit at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education. And until September 19, the Charles River Conservancy is hosting free games and activities. Seriously, tons of good stuff, either free or really cheap. To look for yourself: http://www.harvardsquare.com/

Grad school doesn’t have to be alllllll about school work. I mean, it mostly will be about school work. But for those occasionally breaks, any of these activities make for an awesome time!