You take the train into Manhattan one evening, intent on having a fun night away from campus. The problem is you only have ten bucks. Is it time for a retreat to garden City with your tail between your legs? Not quite. There are actually plenty of things to do in New York City for ten dollars or less. One example: tango lessons.

La Nacional restaurant holds a tango night every Thursday from 7pm to 1am. The restaurant is located at 239 West 14th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues. The beginner's lessons last from 7pm to 8pm and cost ten dollars. It costs an extra five dollars to take the intermediate level classes as well, which start at 8pm and end at 9:30pm. (However, you're not allowed to take the intermediate classes until you've taken at least four beginners lessons.) Then, from 9:30pm until 1am, the dance floor is open to everyone, and they play only tango music. These lessons are anything but formal. You pay by the lesson, and there is no commitment. Each lesson starts with the basics; they teach you how to walk to the music. No previous experience with the tango or any other dance is required. Every week, there is the opportunity to meet new people, ranging from age 18 to 78.

To get to La Nacional from Adelphi, take the train from Nassau Boulevard to Flatbush Avenue. From there, get on the subway and take the to 14th Street. La Nacional is about halfway up the block, between 7th and 8th Avenues. Their website is www.tangolanacional.com.