Article by Emma Ryan

End-of-the semester stress. It’s easy to get swept up in it. But, for the sake of your mental and physical well-being, it’s important to take time for self-care.  

Here are six on-campus options for a little R&R when you need a distraction from academic life over the next few weeks.  

1. Visit the AMYGDALA by fuse* Installation. Until April 30, this lighting installation by Italian production company fuse* is free to view on the Arts Plaza outside of the Ferst Center. AMYGDALA pulls real-time data from social media and translates it into an audiovisual representation of the Information Age. The outdoor installation is on view 24/7, with an indoor component accessible in the lobby of the Ferst Center from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 

2. Enjoy a Georgia Tech Arts Skyline Series Performance. Do you miss live shows? Through May 18, the Georgia Tech Arts Skyline Series is offering the Tech community a rare opportunity to see live dance again. Atlanta Ballet, Terminus Modern Ballet Theater, and Dance Canvas will take to the Skyline Stage over the next four weekends with programming that ranges from classical ballet to an exploration of neuroethics. The Skyline Stage is located in the W21 parking lot at the intersection of Ferst Drive and State Street, and offers distanced seating in two or four-person pods. Tech student pricing is $20 for a two-person pod and $40 for a four-person pod.

3. Take in a Little Baseball. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will play at home at the Russ Chandler Stadium every weekend from now until the end of the semester and will host the North Carolina Tar Heels on their closing weekend May 20-22. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are reserved in pods of two. Students must display their BuzzCard at the box office near Gate 3 of the stadium to receive a ticket. 

4. Dig in the Dirt. Looking to get outdoors and spend some time in nature? Join Students Organizing for Sustainability (SOS) on April 24 to care for the Community Garden at Tech. You can help weed, turn compost, and plant seeds to prepare the garden for warmer weather. The garden is located on the IC Lawn next to the Exhibition Hall. You must RSVP to the event, as space is limited. Masks are required, and hand sanitizer will be provided. 

5. Celebrate Earth Day. Tech has a full schedule of activities focused on sustainable development on campus. For example, on April 22 at 8 and 9:30 a.m., the Kendeda Building will host a walk to observe the birds on Tech’s campus, in partnership with Georgia Audubon. If you’re more of a night owl, the Kendeda Building will also host a Movie Night Under the Stars at the Stamps Field on April 23 at 7 p.m. RSVPs are required for both events. 

6. Tap It Out. If finals have got you stressed, then consider attending "Tapping to Optimize the Nerves," a special tapping event led by Gunilla & Ulf from the Peaceful Heart Network. Gunilla & Ulf will share techniques to calm your brain and nerves that have been shown to be effective for managing pre-exam nervousness. The event will take place virtually, and registration is required.