Happy Women’s History Month! Even though we are nearing the end of March, it’s not too late to celebrate all the accomplishments that women have achieved. For one way to celebrate, consider watching a movie with a strong female lead. In the past decade alone, women have made huge strides in the film industry, and Women’s History Month is the perfect time to appreciate their work and art. Not sure where to begin? Check out this list of films set in New York that pass the Bechdel test. Created by Alison Bechdel in 1985, the test highlights gender inequality in cinema. The test has three criteria: At least two women are featured and named, these women in the film talk to one another, and they talk about something besides a male character. Even though the test was created nearly forty years ago, it remains relevant as many popular films today continue to fail it.

With classes, clubs, and work piled up, it’s easy for our weekends to slip away. We can’t go to this exhibit or visit that park because we have to spend all weekend catching up on readings. But with spring break coming, now is the perfect time to do everything you’ve wanted to do around New York City. Make the most out of your spring break by exploring the city and all the spots that have been on your bucket list since you first came to campus. Regardless of who you are and what you do for fun, Spectrum’s got the perfect itinerary for you.

With the adjustment to on-campus classes and activities comes uncertainty about the current COVID-19 rules and regulations. While the University continues to update its guidance as new data comes in, Spectrum has you covered with the most recent updates.

Meal plans at most universities have point systems that students can use in place of cash at different spots around campus. Columbia meal plans include Dining Dollars and Flex, while the Barnard meal plan includes points. But what exactly is the difference between Dining Dollars, Flex, and Barnard Points? And where can you use each of them?

During finals, it’s easy to fall into a repetitive routine. If you find yourself trudging between libraries, dining halls, and your dorm room, consider shaking things up and head off campus to study. The change in environment will probably make you more productive and break up the monotony. Not to mention, every trip off campus offers some adventure. Here are Spectrum’s favorite spots to study around campus.

Rest can be hard to implement in our personal lives. As college students, we are constantly bombarded by demands, deadlines, and expectations. So when it comes to winter break—a brief window of time where we actually have some time to breathe—it can feel stressful to navigate the newfound time and space.

With classes in high gear, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything you have to get done. Small frustrations can take up more brain space than usual, and you might find yourself forgetting to appreciate the small things. With how hectic our lives are getting, it’s important to reflect on what makes you happy. Here is what some Columbia students are grateful for this Thanksgiving.

Registration for the spring semester is about to start, and with it begins the familiar task of combing through the course directory for engaging classes while also keeping academic requirements in mind. Though registration can be overwhelming, the fresh influx of new courses  gives students the opportunity to explore relevant and interesting topics. Spectrum has compiled some new spring semester courses that were not offered this fall and fulfill requirements for majors, Barnard’s Foundations Curriculum, or Columbia’s Core Curriculum.

With fall now in full swing, festive fun is right around the corner: Halloween and Thanksgiving are almost here, and it’s time to get into the fall spirit! The golden leaves and chilly weather make fall the coziest season of the year, and with cold weather on the way, you may need some cheer close to home. If so, here are some dorm decoration ideas that can spice up your room and ensure a great start to the new season.