In the bustling life of Northeastern University students, board games have emerged as an unexpected yet effective antidote to stress. Kimberly Tai, a second-year student majoring in data science and business administration, finds solace in playing board games with friends after a hectic week of exams and assignments. This sentiment resonates with many others who seek refuge in the Northeastern University Association of Gaming Enthusiasts (NUAGE). NUAGE provides a welcoming space where students can escape academic pressures by engaging in face-to-face interactions through board games. Despite the prevalence of online gaming, NUAGE members prioritize physical meet-ups to enjoy the unique social dynamics that only board games can offer.
A Hub for Connection: The Role of NUAGE
Every Friday and Saturday evening, within the cozy confines of the Forsyth Building, NUAGE gathers from 7 p.m. to midnight, drawing around 30 to 40 attendees each session. Timothy Blank, assistant dean of student experience for CAMD, highlights the importance of such safe spaces where students can momentarily forget their worries. Preparation for these gatherings involves setting up an array of games, including favorites like “Slay the Spire: The Board Game” and newer additions suggested by members. Members actively participate in deciding which games to purchase, leading to themed nights featuring specific types of games. Beverly Cutty, a first-year political science and philosophy combined major, appreciates the diversity of games offered, noting the enjoyment derived from unique titles rather than conventional ones like Monopoly.
The club fosters deep connections among its members, transcending typical social boundaries. Izabella Pivo, though not officially part of NUAGE, shares similar sentiments about the engaging nature of board games, emphasizing the value of reading others' micro-expressions during gameplay. Mark Sivak, NUAGE’s faculty advisor, points out how board games transport players into distinct worlds, providing both mental and physical escapes from daily stressors. Blank elaborates on this concept, referring to it as the "magic circle," where specific rules govern interactions within the game environment, effectively removing players from reality.
Beyond mere entertainment, board games contribute significantly to psychological well-being. With his background in therapy, Blank acknowledges the therapeutic potential of games, which help lower blood pressure and heart rate while promoting a playful mindset. This aspect transforms NUAGE into more than just a gaming club; it becomes a sanctuary for meaningful connections and stress relief.
As students continue navigating the challenges of academia, initiatives like NUAGE remind us of the power of simple pleasures in fostering community and resilience. Through board games, they discover not only new ways to unwind but also forge lasting friendships that enrich their university experience.
Reflections on the Power of Play
From a journalistic perspective, the story of NUAGE illustrates the profound impact of seemingly ordinary activities like playing board games. It underscores the significance of creating intentional spaces for human connection amidst modern distractions. For readers, this narrative serves as a gentle reminder to seek joy and camaraderie in tangible experiences. Whether through joining clubs or hosting personal game nights, we all stand to benefit from embracing moments of genuine interaction, proving that sometimes, stepping away from screens and diving into a world of dice and cards can be surprisingly transformative.