A Glimpse into Northeastern Life in the Spring
After a long and snowy winter, Boston finally begins to defrost. There is nothing like the first warm day of spring when you can go outside without a heavy jacket and actually enjoy the weather. Leaves start growing back on the trees, birds begin chirping again, and outdoor areas across campus quickly fill with students enjoying the sunshine. Northeastern University has so many green spaces and outdoor seating options that students love to use once the weather gets nice, and it feels like everyone is suddenly happier and more energized.
One of the biggest signs that it is officially spring at Northeastern is when the seesaws return to campus and you start spotting little bunnies running around. There are four seesaws that were designed by engineering students at Northeastern, and they have become a fun and unique part of campus life. They are great places to hang out with friends, take pictures, or just enjoy a short break. Each one is located near different academic buildings, which makes them perfect for stepping outside between classes or taking a study break without going too far.
Doing work outside is such a refreshing change from being inside all winter. Northeastern has plenty of outdoor tables and seating areas where students can bring their laptops and get work done. When the weather finally gets warm, these tables are almost always filled with students working on assignments, reading, or studying for exams. It feels more productive to sit outside with fresh air and sunlight instead of staying indoors all day, and it makes schoolwork feel a little less stressful.
One of my favorite things to do on campus during the spring is sit with my friends on Centennial Common. There are always so many students spread out on the grass doing homework, hanging out, relaxing in hammocks, reading, and playing spike ball. Some students bring blankets or set up hammocks and relax in the sun between classes. It creates a calm and social atmosphere where you can still be productive while also spending time with friends. Centennial really becomes the center of campus life in the spring.
Spring also brings outdoor events, activities, and giveaways. Student organizations table around campus and offer free food or small items. One thing about walking around campus in the spring is that it is very easy to find free snacks. It is common to see people handing out Red Bull, Tru Fru, Kraft mac and cheese boxes, Dunkin’ gift cards, and other random treats. These little moments make walking to class more exciting and add to the overall energy of campus.
In addition to these everyday events, Northeastern Council for University Programs, also known as CUP, hosts SpringFest each year. SpringFest is filled with fun activities for students and is one of the most anticipated events of the semester. There is always a concert that draws a large crowd, along with games, booths, and other activities that make campus feel like a festival. In 2025, our headliner was Kehlani. It gives students something to look forward to near the end of the semester and brings everyone together.
Beyond campus, there are also many fun things to do around Boston in the spring. One of my favorite activities with friends is getting food in Chinatown and going to Boston Common for a picnic. It is a great place to relax, talk, and enjoy the weather while being surrounded by the city. Boston is such a walkable city, and spring is the perfect time to explore on foot. Just a short walk from campus, you can wander through Newbury Street, Fenway, or Back Bay and discover new shops, restaurants, and cafes.
One of the biggest events in Boston during the spring is Saint Patrick’s Day. This is when the whole city comes together to celebrate at the Saint Patrick's Day Parade. The streets are filled with people, and the city feels lively and connected. It is one of those days where you can really feel the spirit of Boston and its traditions.
Campus culture truly comes alive in the spring. Between the warm weather, outdoor studying, fun events, and the excitement of being in Boston, it feels like everyone is in a better mood. Students spend more time outside, friendships feel stronger, and campus feels more social and active. After months of cold and snow, spring at Northeastern is a reminder of how much there is to enjoy both on campus and throughout the city.
