It is so easy to get caught up in the daily routine of college life: boring classes to study for, the same parties to go to and awkward coffee dates with old acquaintances to attend. Sometimes life seems like it would be so much better if it were a movie, right? Well, you don’t have to live in Hollywood to feel like a star. You can harness your main character energy right here on campus.
Start with a Soundtrack
Every main character needs the perfect soundtrack to serve as the background of their day. Make walking around campus feel like your personal coming-of-age movie by creating a personalized playlist. Instead of just compiling all of your favorite songs, take some time to think about the kind of vibe you want to create.
If you’re going for a mellow indie vibe, try bands like LANY, Local Natives or Del Water Gap. For a more nostalgic feel, pull inspiration from your favorite 2000s teen drama — think Gilmore Girls, The Vampire Diaries and One Tree Hill. Whatever your music taste, make sure the songs you choose make you feel energized, confident and ready to take on the day.
Solo Activities
Now that you’ve nailed the music, it’s time to actually get out there and have your mysterious main character moment. Embrace the opportunity to explore State College on your own once in a while. Love books and music? Order a cup of coffee and browse for books and vinyls at Webster’s Bookstore Cafe. Need to catch up on schoolwork? Finish your assigned reading under a tree by Old Main or on the steps of the library. Want to get creative? Bring your sketchbook to the Arboretum or head to the Palmer Museum of Art on campus to seek inspiration. Remember, these aren’t just errands or tasks to pass the time; they’re your plot. Living your best main character life is all about romanticizing the mundane.
Group Activities
If you want to take your main character energy up a notch, invite some friends to go along on an excursion. Stake out a window booth at the Corner Room and make it your group’s regular table (bonus points for ordering milkshakes before your food arrives). Go on a walk downtown and snap some shots of your group carrying your midday Irving’s fix and exploring the local shops. Hop in the car and sing along to your favorite songs as you drive down College Avenue with the windows down. For a special occasion, try out The Makery on Fraser Street – they offer open studios, group events and art classes for Penn State students.
Manifesting main character moments involves creating special memories wherever and whenever you can. Don’t put pressure on it! Bring a camera or your smartphone along to catalog all your adventures at Penn State. Get out there and make this the best season yet!
Tag us on Instagram, @valleymag, with your best main character moments at Penn State!
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