There’s a common misconception about Princeton that students are so busy that it’s difficult to balance your academic life and your social life. While it’s true that academics require a lot of attention, I’ve never found it to be the case that my work significantly detracts from my interpersonal relationships. In fact, I think Princeton is a wonderful place to nurture lasting relationships.
I met my boyfriend of two years in my Community Action group during freshman orientation. Coming to Princeton without knowing anyone was intimidating at first, and I was initially worried about how difficult it might be to meet new people. Sebastian and I, however, immediately clicked, and throughout the weeks of freshman orientation, he quickly became my closest friend. Despite our different academic interests and personalities (he’s concentrating in economics and I’m studying classics) it was relatively easy for the two of us to get a game of ping pong in after late meal in Frist or to hang out together at sporting events
Navigating Princeton with a partner has been a wonderful aspect of my student experience that caught me entirely by surprise. There are plenty of fun spots in the Princeton area that make for fun date night activities. Last year, we were able to go axe-throwing at Stumpy’s and we visited a pumpkin patch at Terhune Orchards, both of which were a short bike ride away. Our eating club, Tower, throws Formals every semester, where members get to dress up, eat fancy dinners, and dance the night away. I cherish the memories we have been able to create together at all of the fun events Princeton has to offer.
I cherish all the relationships that I have been able to form at Princeton with friends, teammates, and classmates. It’s so important to me to be able to share my time with amazing people having different backgrounds and perspectives. Sebastian and I are taking a philosophy class together this semester, and have been able to have so many enriching conversations about the material. In the midst of all of the hustle and bustle on campus, I feel so lucky to have a partner by side who supports me.