Hi Everyone, 

It’s Madeline, your friendly local Admissions Ambassador, back with another message. The academic year is really in full swing now, and I’ve been working hard on everything from writing term papers, to designing exhibitions in SketchUp, to developing tours for our gallery. It’s important to me that my working environment is pleasant, conducive to focusing, and perhaps includes some caffeine and a little treat. To that end, I’ve found some places both inside and outside of BGC that fit the bill for me, and have also made me feel at home in BGC’s neighborhood on the Upper West Side. Let me show you where I work!

First stop, about halfway between Bard Hall (our student housing building) and Bard Graduate Center, is Mast Market. I love to stop here on the way to and from class, and often leave my apartment early in the mornings so I can linger at their counter for an hour or so nursing a deliciously spicy dirty chai latte and finishing up readings before continuing on to school. They’ve got some fancy healthy groceries and pastries, too, if that’s your speed. 

Next, once I’m at BGC I usually gravitate towards working either in the reading room, or on a patio. If the weather’s nice, the patio is the way to go. It feels really special to have a patch of private green space in the middle of the city, and since the patios look out onto other private courtyards and terraces it’s quiet and serene. For some reason that’s beyond me they’re usually empty, so your chances of getting your own personal table in the sun are pretty good. On a chilly day in the autumn or winter, the reading room is a super cozy spot. Lined with warm wooden shelves full to the brim with books, this space feels almost like it glows from within. There are even library ladders that, if you were anything like me as a kid, were the stuff of climbing and smooth-gliding dreams. It’s quiet and there are plenty of outlets, so you can camp out with any devices you need to do your work and study the day away. 

When it’s time for a lunch break I’ll either toddle on up to the sixth floor where, if I’ve been responsible, I will have stowed a packed lunch for myself in the kitchenette fridge, and I’ll eat while catching up with friends and peers. The sixth floor is the social hub of the BGC building, and in between class times it’s often bustling. But let’s be honest, usually I’m going across the street for a slice of pizza. Pizza Pete’s has got your back whenever you feel the need for a warm, cheesy pick-me-up. Though the days of the dollar slice in New York may be over, $3.75 isn’t bad at all. 

For some post-lunch or post-class caffeine I like to stop at PlantShed, right up the block from BGC. This cafe-cum-plant store has the combined benefits of providing yummy coffees and teas, and the opportunity to sit amongst greenery regardless of the season. It’s kind of like being in a greenhouse. I like to pick up a matcha and gently stroke a fern when I’m there. 

To be amongst the greenery outside you could head to Central Park, and I recommend you do. It’s just a few steps away. But if you’re looking for a truly special pocket of plants, there’s a magical community garden just a block up, on 87th st. This garden has winding paths, arches, fig trees, tables, and tucked away benches. It’s a sweet neighborhood hangout, and being there makes me feel like I’m part of the community. Bring a book, your lunch, or a friend and stay a while. 

These are the places I visit the most in and around BGC when I’m trying to keep myself fueled and focused for days of studying and working. Being there not only provides me with snacks, drinks, and comfortable environments, but also with a feeling of belonging that is really important when you’re trying to make a home in a big city. Thanks for tagging along with me while I showed off my favorite spots, and I’ll catch you in the next one!

We have a virtual open house this Sunday, Nov. 9th, and an in-person open house on Nov. 16. I hope to see many of you there!

My best,
Madeline Fuentes
Student Admissions Ambassador, MA ’26
madeline.fuentes@bgc.bard.edu