CAMPUS OF LOVE
What BU Students are Doing on Valentine’s Day
by Grace Hawkins
When you walk into any business during the month of February, you are immediately welcomed by an onslaught of pink, red, chocolates, and hearts. This time of the year is dominated by the celebration of love, with Valentine’s Day arriving on February 14th.
Valentine’s Day can be a daunting holiday, especially if you are not in a relationship. In recent years, though, February 14th is less of a day for romantic affection, but for love of all kinds: Family, friendships, classmates, all are celebrated now.
There often are other pressing issues to think about for college students rather than Valentine’s Day plans. Upcoming exams, extracurricular activities, or just keeping your mental health intact, to name a few. However, many students still have plans to celebrate their love for people in their lives.
“I’m having dinner with a few of my friends,” said Chantel Kardous (CAS ‘25). “Just because we aren’t in relationships doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate.”
In recent years, the trend of “Galentine’s Day” has grown in popularity. More and more are spending the holiday with their closest friends, celebrating the support and love for each other.
It doesn’t have to be just your romantic partner who can give you presents and chocolates, but your close friends can as well.
Regarding BU’s campus specifically, a cherished sports event is also happening on Valentine’s Day this year — the Boston-wide hockey tournament Beanpot. In this anticipated game, local universities compete against each other for the top prize.
Many students plan to spend this day of love at the tournament, wanting to be a part of school spirit, as BU takes on Northeastern in the final.
“After dinner, we’re going to Beanpot,” said Kardous, “We thought it would be something fun to do, and be in the student section.”
While it is not the most traditional Valentine’s Day celebration, it’s quintessentially BU, as hockey remains one of—if not the most—popular sport on campus to cheer on.
“I’m really excited to experience the crowd,” said Ellery Turner (COM ‘25). “I feel like it will be a very fun night, no matter if we win or lose.”
While many of these students won’t be experiencing romantic love on Valentine’s Day, what they will be feeling is the devotion their classmates feel for BU, whether the Terriers take home the victory or not.
Valentine’s Day can take on different forms for each student, this year being no different, as everyone simply wants to show the people they love just how much they care.