Pico Picks: Festivals to Know in NOLA

Buku Music and Arts Festival

When I first visited Tulane in 2012, I was disappointed to learn I had missed New Orleans newest music festival, Buku, by just one weekend. As soon as I enrolled, I bought tickets for the next year with no hesitation. Now I’ve gone three years in a row, and every time I've grown to love the festival a little bit more.

The first year, I was just an excited festival-goer, marveling over the intricate stages, creative art installations, and good tunes. In 2013, I had a hand in the festival’s preparation as a volunteer (and I got to attend for free). Now, I’m headed to Buku as a journalist, watching the shows from the pit and interviewing my favorite artists. From all these different positions and perspectives, I have learned a lot about the festival, and myself. Most notably, Buku helped me discover my passion for the music industry, particularly in areas such as marketing and sponsorship. For that, I am forever grateful.

When discussing Buku, you have to consider its incredible history. Founded in 2012 by Winter Cold Productions and Huka Entertainment, the festival was designed to attract a younger crowd interested in electronic, hip-hop, and indie music. In its first year, organizers managed to draw artists ranging from Skrillex and Avicii to Wiz Khalifa. Since then, the lineups have maintained their integrity as attendance grows at unprecedented rate. This year, A$AP Rocky, Bassnectar, Passion Pit, and Empire of the Sun are the headliners for the rapidly expanding festival.

Portugal. The Man at the Float Den

Another notable thing about Buku is its very New Orleanian appreciation for art. At the beginning of the festival, street artists go to work on blank canvases mounted on scaffolding that overlooks the central area. The art in motion adds a creative buzz to the area. Also, the environment itself is extremely significant. The festival takes place at the iconic Mardi Gras World complex on the Mississippi River. On the outskirts of the indoor areas, massive floats and props from the parades look on merrily. Some of my best memories are from the Float Den and Ballroom Stages, which are characterized by Mardi Gras memorabilia.

Since much of my Tulane career has been characterized and shaped by music, it’s no surprise that Buku has been a big part of my college experience. Freshman year, it was where I bonded with the people who would become my best friends (“The Bukrewe”), and every time I go back I marvel at Buku’s magical ability to create memories and bring people together against a one-of-a-kind backdrop in a one-of-a-kind city. Buku is more than just a place in time, it is a lifestyle.

Odesza in the Ballroom

By: Justin Picard

Photos By: Patrick Ainsworth x Buku Media

Nora in Nola: A Day on Magazine Street

Nora in Nola: A Day on Magazine Street

As we all know, Magazine street is one of the best parts of New Orleans. Each time people ask me for restaurant recommendations, it's my "go to" - but there are so many options that it's even hard to narrow down my list of recommendations. So I've put together my favorite options so you can spend a lovely day on Magazine street filled with food, shopping, and happy hours - even on a student budget. Enjoy!

Breakfast/Brunch

Surrey's Cafe and Juice Bar, 1418 Magazine st.

Surrey's is one of my favorite brunch places in New Orleans. My favorite dishes include Bananas Foster French Toast ($9) and Huevos Rancheros ($7.75). They also have good sandwiches (including poboys!) and salads in case you're having a late brunch. Their juice bar is definitely a savior after a day of traveling or not eating healthily for a few days.

Check out the menu here: http://menuorleans.com/surreys-cafe-juice-bar

Bananas Foster French Toast - too good to be true

Another Broken Egg Cafe, 2917 Magazine st.

Another Broken Egg Cafe has the best Eggs Benedict I've ever had! You can get the classic, but there's also great variations including one with smoked salmon on a bagel and other with crab cakes! You can easily spend $15 and under on the meal, and the portions are great sizes. I also highly recommend the blueberry grits and the biscuit beignets. If you have to wake up early for breakfast, this is the place to do it.

Check out the menu here: http://www.anotherbrokenegg.com/menu

 

District: Donuts. Sliders. Brew., 2209 Magazine st.

If you are ever going to eat a donut, this is absolutely the place to do it. If you follow any Nola foodie on Instagram, Facebook, etc, I guarantee there is at least one picture of District Donuts. The amazing donuts are enough to fill you for a whole day, but if you're not full, you can wash it down with a slider and coffee. The donuts are categorized by "simple", "fancy", and "extra fancy" - for no more than $3. I've had too many to remember, but my favorites have been Boston Cream Pie, Wedding Cake, Mexican Hot Chocolate and Vietnamese Iced Coffee and Maple Sriracha. Seriously. So. Good.

Check it out here: http://www.donutsandsliders.com/menu/

Nutella mousse with caramelized bananas

Lunch

Dat Dog, 3336 Magazine st.

Now I've never been a huge fan of hot dogs, but these gourmet hot dogs are completely different (and better!) than any others. You get to choose which "dog" you want (beef, pork, smoked sage vegan, chipotle veggie, veggie patty, Guinness, italian, turducken, duck, crawfish, alligator, slovenian sausage, bratwurst, kielbasa, and fish) and then load it up with as many toppings as you like! They also have amazing fries - chili, cheese, and even crawfish! The hot dogs are less than $8 - an amazing deal for a lot of food! They also have a happy hour and outdoor seating, so it's a great place to go when the weather is nice!

Check it out: http://datdognola.com/

Magasin Vietnamese Cafe, 4201 Magazine st.

If there's one place to get Pho in New Orleans, this is the spot. They range from between $7-12 each and are enough to fill you for the rest of the day. I also recommend the vermicelli noodle dishes and the Vietnamese crepe. It's a great option to have a lighter meal in between a heavy brunch and another heavy dinner. It even won an "Eat Fit Nola" for having so many menu options under 500 calories!

Check out the menu: http://magasin-cafe.wl-6548.happytables.com/content/uploads/sites/6518/2015/01/2014-November-Magasin-Menu_final.pdf

Del Fuego, 4518 Magazine st.

Del Fuego is fairly new to Nola, but has already achieved a lot of success. Their guacamole is to die for - seriously, my mom and I had 3 helpings before our entrees came. They have a taco deal (3 for $12 with yummy sides) with options from chicken, steak, goat and pork to even cactus! Their burritos are also fantastic and last over 2 meals. Del Fuego is definitely now one of my favorite restaurants and the best Mexican restaurant in the city. They even have a great happy hour from 3-7 as well!

Probably the best guacamole I've ever had

Happy hour and Dinner

Rum House, 3128 Magazine st.

Rum House is one of the all time best places to eat in New Orleans. Its Latin/Caribbean food appeals to even the pickiest of eaters. I'd recommend the Queso Blanco Dip ($6.75), Damn Good Nachos ($12.95), and the following tacos: Jerk Chicken, Lamb Vindaloo, Calypso Beef and Fried Oyster. The tacos are only $3-4 each, but you can get 3 with 2 sides for only $12! Although there is usually a wait, I guarantee Rum House is absolutely worth it and you'll be surrounded by Tulane students as well! Taco Tuesday ($2 each) and Happy Hour (which they call "Island time") are opportunities that Tulane students love to take advantage of. 

Check out the menu here: http://www.rumhousenola.com/food-menu/

Peche Seafood Grill, 800 Magazine st.

Peche is also new to New Orleans, and already a huge hit - since this summer, it's already won lots of major awards. I brought my parents and it was one of the best meals we've ever had here. We shared a whole grilled fish, fried bread with sea salt, roasted carrots, and hushpuppies. This is definitely a restaurant to bring your parents to as it isn't exactly ideal for a student's budget, but the meal is completely worth it. Be sure to make reservations, as it's now one of Nola's hottest spots!

Check out the menu here: http://www.pecherestaurant.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Peche-Menu-2-11-2015.pdf

Whole grilled redfish - a Nola classic!

Salú, 3226 Magazine st.

Salú is my "go to" for birthday dinners. Between amazing paellas (don't make the mistake my friend did and try to eat it alone, it's meant for 4!), sweet and savory (including Nutella) flatbreads and delicious tapas, you can't go wrong. They also have my favorite happy hour deals on Magazine: Thursday nights you get a free bottle of wine with a paella, and every day between 4-7 there's half priced drinks, mussels and flatbreads. They also have amazing brunch deals, including bottomless mimosas for $15. Like I said - you can't go wrong.

Check out their menu: http://www.salurestaurant.com/menu/index.html

Don't be fooled - this is only the half portion

Good luck and happy eating!

My First Love: Tulane

My First Love

Lara Fernandez

         This is not an article about my first love with a boy (since I haven’t gotten there yet), nor is it about my undeniable love for my pups (Whiskey and Martini, my parents named them I swear) but rather my love for what my life revolves around today, Tulane. The place that makes me so happy I can never stop smiling; the place where I feel most myself; the place that has engraved itself into my heart; my home, my love, Tulane University.  We have now been together for a little over six months and I can truly say this love of ours is eternal. That sounds overdramatic but really, I fit the checklist of being in love according Wikihow and let's be honest it's always right.

First, I can’t picture a future without Tulane or at least without NOLA in my life. When I think about the idea of one day having to move on, it breaks my heart. Sorry Mom and Dad, I may just never leave college. Second, I think about Tulane everyday and every minute of the day. I reflect on how beautiful the university is and how grateful I am to have ended up here, in this picturesque campus, inhabited with diverse wonderful people. When I am separated from my love, I catch myself drifting off, fantasizing about Tulane and how I wish I could just be back there. Third, Tulane and New Orleans’ imperfections are what make them so flawless in my eyes. The authenticity that they have is made up by several factors such as the beautiful Spanish moss’s roots breaking into the sidewalks and the Tulane buildings being historic, at least in my youthful perspective. For example, Sharp Hall, the Freshman dorm I reside in, has been here since my Grandfather graduated in the 1960s (don’t worry. improvements have been made). The history of the city and school reminds of why people keep coming back, because it was as amazing then as it is now. Together the city and University have survived a variety of controversy over time, but that has only made them stronger. When I am back home in Miami and discussing college with my friend,s the subject of negative qualities of our universities arises and I have no way to respond but to shrug my shoulders and say in a questioning tone, “The doors are heavy?”

I love Tulane and I know it loves me, but I also gladly accept that it’s not a monogamous relationship. Each student and faculty member shares the same relationship with Tulane as I do. Tulane and its "Tulanians" create an aura that can be felt all around the campus, even by outsiders. It is a non-judgmental, optimistic, and exciting vibe that inspires and motivates individuals. 

Freshman Year - Second Semester

Freshman Year - Second Semester

Shelby Strattan

So the freshman year saga continues. From the first week of school to the first week of second semester (where did the time go…), my love for New Orleans and Tulane grows exponentially as I meet new classmates, get to know my friends here on a more personal level, and experience this beautiful city in its entirety - not to mention making it through the first round of finals. Everyday is something new, and the excitement of each adventure makes it seem as though time is nonexistent. Until I look at my calendar. *GASP* The time is passing entirely too quickly here at Tulane, so I’d like to share with all of you prospective students, interested readers, or my mom and dad who may be the only people that actually care about the content of this blog, just how us students spend our precious minutes of each day.

RESIDENTIAL LIFE

        The people in your residence hall, particularly those on your floor, get a lot face time. And by that I mean you see them ALL THE TIME. This isn't always the case, but in a large and very social dorm, people are always looking to hang out, which is rather convenient with a common room. All freshman residence halls have their own perks, but I am rather obviously biased towards Monroe as it is my current home. From the very first week, my floor has developed a strong, family-like bond. We all had the opportunity to get to know each other through our large common room that separates the girls’ side from the boys’ side. Not all floors have common rooms, but those that do are filled with floormates doing homework, unwinding, watching TV, or my personal favorite - eating food. What kind of food? Everything you would ever expect from college freshman: Ramen, Easy Mac, Papa Johns delivery, etc. We are an exceedingly eclectic mix of students; from New Orleans natives to football players to Paul Tulane scholars to semi-professional Irish dancers - our floor sums up the definition of the most random group of kids ever thrown together on one floor. And we somehow made it work. We have movie nights, go to concerts, and frequent Bruff together. Wait…what is Bruff?        

DINING

        Bruff is our on-campus cafeteria that is open from 7am-10pm most days. Convenient, right? Most freshman and some sophomores have a meal plan that allow them to swipe into Bruff anywhere from 1 - ∞ times a day (unlimited meal plans!!!!). Bruff offers a wide variety of options, both healthy and not, and you can always find something new. They have Milkshake Mondays and other special events such as Tabasco Day in which they gave out free prizes and special foods made with Tabasco products, and Cram Jam - a finals week favorite. However, eating in the same location, no matter how many options they provide, gets a little old from time to time, so my friends and I enjoy venturing off campus to try new restaurants. Whether its a snack or a five course meal, we are always enthusiastic about eating delicious and authentic New Orleans food. Some of the places we have ventured to include Sucre, Maple Street Deli, Amici, Arana, Lil Tokyo, Satsuma, and Commander’s Palace. But, my absolute favorite eatery I have visited (multiple times…) is District Donuts. The ornately decorated, and oh so tasty, hand-crafted pastries make for a truly life changing experience.

District Donuts

SO… WHAT ELSE?

        Let’s see… Directly across from campus is Audubon Park. Students love going here to run, lay out, play frisbee, or just lounge. The pond, surrounding tress, and beautiful landscape make for a beautiful atmosphere to relax in. The Audubon Zoo and golf course are also located here for those interested. The fairly temperate, warm weather allows for outdoor activities, festivals, parades, etc year round. At the beginning of the year, there was a large parade and celebration for Southern Decadence. With the high spirits, jocose dispositions, and colorful costumes all around, it was hard for anyone within miles to be in a sour mood. Voodoo Music Festival is another very popular event that occurred on Halloween weekend this year. During each of the three days there were unique live performances, beautiful light shows, and the an undeniable sense of unity through music for all art lovers alike. Aside from a few of my favorite bands (Zedd, Skrillex, Arctic Monkeys), Voodoo supplied fantastic food vendors from all over the country, cute local boutique tents, and eerie halloween decorations. The most recent festival I’ve been to however, was the Po Boy Festival on Oak Street. The street was blocked off and local food vendors lined the sidewalks, ready for all hungry students, locals, and tourists. Local bands played on several stages throughout the area as people munched on the famous New Orleans sandwiches. This next semester, I look forward to Mardi Gras and many other festivals!

At beautiful Audubon Park!

Southern Decadence festival

SCHOOL WORK

        Aside from all the fun and quirky things we do in New Orleans, we also spend a good deal of time in class and completing our assigned homework. There are countless places on campus to study that provide a different atmosphere to fit everyone’s study preferences. When you need a break (on Monday and Thursdays), theWell has excellent masseuses come in for two hours and give students free five minute massages. Ahhhh-mazing right? Additionally, the majority of professors make themselves so readily available to assist with any questions students may have, so many students meet with their teachers outside of class for supplemental instruction. Tulane students pride themselves on hard work, integrity, and academic originality. We are a creative and innovative body that supports each individual and group and their respective goals. We collaborate effectively in all aspects to accomplish academic excellence and social success, which is why when you can’t find us in the library, we are off exploring and simultaneously learning about our surrounding community, interests, and forming life long bonds - a holistic NOLA experience that goes hand in hand with that of the classroom.

Rushing a Fraternity at Tulane

Rushing a fraternity at Tulane is extremely low-key and stress free. In keeping with the Big Easy, the process is slow and laidback. The rush process formally begins in the fall, with each chapter having a minimum of two highly publicized, formal rush events. Beyond those two events, if a student has interest in a specific fraternity it is up to them to maintain contact with brothers. Usually, this entails anything from a BBQ to stopping by a tailgate tent. Bids are then officially given out in the spring after a few more formal rush events.

There are so many opportunities to get involved at Tulane that Greek life is really not a necessity. As such, first year students have time to get their bearings and explore the school without being restricted to one group of people. This is completely different from anything that you’ll hear about a big southern state school, where you need to arrive on day one with a clear cut idea of who you want to rush, and what connections will facilitate your efforts.

The stereotypes about frat bros DO NOT apply here. Seriously. Everyone is so involved that if a person is in a fraternity, they’re likely participating in a host of other clubs and organizations as well.

Ultimately, if you’re even slightly considering Greek life I highly recommend checking out a few formal rush events and keeping an open mind. Life in the Crescent City is exciting, and joining a fraternity could be one more route not only into the local culture, but also into a brotherhood that offers tradition and sources of moral fortitude, in addition to a supportive network that can be invaluable when searching for jobs. And let us not forget Animal House was released in 1978, hazing at Tulane is strictly prohibited, so you needn’t worry about having to go through the wacky ceremonies you see in the movies.

Personally, my experience at Tulane has been invaluably changed and improved by my involvement in a fraternity. As an initial skeptic, I highly encourage you (especially the doubters) to give Greek life a shot. 

By: Justin Picard

Sorority Recruitment Survival Tips

Sorority Recruitment Survival Tips

Sorority recruitment has already started and people are buzzing! About 40% of Tulane students are involved in Greek life, and recruitment for both IFC fraternities and Panhel sororities take place at the beginning of second semester. At Tulane, we have 8 Panhellenic Council sororities, and luckily, recruitment gives you the opportunity to experience and get to know all of them at least once. While some people may be worried or freaking out, I've compiled 10 do's and don't's to guide you through:

1. Don't be nervous!

The whole point of recruitment is for everyone to get to know each other. While other schools may have a more rigorous process, Tulane Panhel makes sure that everyone has a comfortable, respectful and enjoyable experience. Once you get through a few events at different houses, you'll realize there's no need to be really worried and can try to just enjoy the process.

Alpha Delta Pi (ADPi)

2. Have an open mind

While some people may have preconceived notions about certain houses, it is essential to keep an open mind going in to recruitment so you don't limit any opportunities. Try and base all of your options on the conversations and experiences you have in each house rather than focus on external rumors, gossip, etc!

Alpha Epsilon Phi (AEPhi)

3. Be kind to everyone

The days are long - for PNMs (Potential New Members, aka women going through the recruitment process) as well as members of each house. It is easy to get tired and less excited as the day goes on, but remember to stay as positive and nice to everyone as possible, even if you're in a house that isn't your first choice. 

Chi Omega (Chi O)

4. Wear comfortable clothing

I remember my freshman year during recruitment as I, along with everyone else on my floor, carefully picked out each part of my outfit for each day of recruitment. I focused way too much on the color of my necklace and too little on the actual comfort of my clothing. Again, the days are long and you have to walk between houses in limited time. I can't stress this enough -- wear comfortable clothing, ESPECIALLY shoes! If you're going to wear heels, make sure you can walk and stand in them comfortably and easily (I have to admit, I definitely fell twice during recruitment in heels - not fun). 

Kappa Alpha Theta (Theta)

5. Try to have personal, meaningful conversations

If you just talk about your major and dorm in every event and every house, it'll be hard to get a good reading of the community within each sorority. While you'll cover all the basics within the first five minutes, try to ask more personal questions about the sorority such as their philanthropies and their sisterhood. Obviously everyone loves mixers and cool themed parties, but you want to be comfortable with the actual sisterhood before you can focus on other activities. I always asked the sisters about their favorite events and why they chose their house in order to get a better sense of what each house was really like, and it really gave me great insight on each community.

Kappa Kappa Gamma (Kappa)

6. Be mindful of yourself in the week in between events

Although asked not to, many PNMs choose to go out during the week between Open House/Philanthropy and Sisterhood/Preference. I really recommend against going out - it's awkward running into older girls that you can't talk to. However, if you do decide to go out, be extremely mindful of the way you hold yourself -- you want to present the best version of yourself possible! Moreover, as much as you may want to, don't try to contact your older friends in sororities. Respect the recruitment process: go out to dinner, get froyo, have a movie night in, but avoid the Boot and Palms!

Phi Mu

7. Take this experience as an opportunity to bond with other freshmen

You're all going through this at the same time - why not chat, bond, and get to know each other? You'll not only get closer with the girls on your floor, but also the girls in your recruitment group who you'll spend each day with. Remember to respect everyone's decisions and opinions, and to support each other. Taking the time to bond with each other will only make it more exciting to see more friendly faces on bid day!

Pi Beta Phi (Pi Phi)

8. Make your own decisions and opinions

I went through recruitment with my closest group of friends and we all ended up in different houses. Joining a sorority won't change your friendships; it'll only add new ones! While some parts of recruitment may be disappointing, try not to compare yourself to the choices your friends make or the houses they get invited back to. Focus on your own feelings and decide where you see yourself fitting in best, even if it's not the same choice as your roommate. This is another time when it's important to support one another through the ups and downs so that everyone has the best experience possible.

Sigma Delta Tau (SDT)

9 + 10.  Everything happens for a reason and get excited!!

Remember, it is a mutual selection process. Bid day (see all above pictures) is a wonderful, fun day that everyone should be excited for! No matter which house you end up in, keep an open mind, meet as many people as possible and get ready for an amazing experience! Happy recruitment!