As my senior year sets in, I’ve been taking some time to step back and reflect on what really made my UConn experience. Besides the occasional late-nights (and sure, a few all-nighter cram sessions), I tried to look at what made my college years in Storrs standout. The Student Alumni Association has created a list of “81 Things to Do Before You Graduate” and I narrowed down my personal top 10, in no particular order.
10. Attend An Event At Each Of The Cultural Centers.
If you’re curious to learn more about a certain culture, its holidays or just need an excuse to try some new foods, visit the cultural centers! It’s a great way to make new friends and open your mind to the diversity that surrounds us.
9. Go To A Performance Or Lecture At Jorgensen Or Another Theatre On Campus
I know, I know. Going to another lecture besides the ones you already go to in the week? UConn has had some distinguished guests who present some amazing ideas and discussions. Brandon Stanton, the visual storyteller behind Humans of New York, was a personal favorite.
8. Pet Jonathan XIV
Need I say more?
7. Visit A Food Truck
If you’re ever looking for a bite on-the-go, I highly recommend Lizzie’s on Whitney Road. It was difficult to resist grabbing a bacon, egg and cheese after getting out of a class in Arjona.
6. See Your Favorite Performers At A SUBOG Event
SUBOG has done a phenomenal job into taking consideration of who and what students want to see being performed at UConn. Pete Davidson, Tom Segura, Lil Yachty and Khalid were just a few of the highlights of UConn experience. UConn may be a bit isolated from the big cities and venues, but we sure do know how to attract some great acts.
5. Sled/Picnic On Horsebarn Hill
Horsebarn Hill is always a relaxing break from the hustle-and-bustle of campus. The best memories I have were spending those long snow days sledding with my friends or basking in a sunset on an autumn evening.
4. Play On An Intramural Team
Okay, so maybe we’re not all Breanna Stewarts, but UConn has an opportunity for everyone to join in on the volleyball, basketball, badminton, ice hockey and tons of other recreational team events. I joined an intramural soccer team and, if you’re wondering, we did in fact lose every game. Still, it was about the time I spent with my good friends on Sunday evenings that made up for the losing streak.
3. Join A Student Organization
If you have an interest, UConn will most likely have a club or organization for it. Becoming involved is not only a way to engage in your passions and hobbies, but an amazing way to work and meet people who share those interests. I joined WHUS Radio and Nutmeg Publishing, which led to my growth as a person academically, career-wise, and socially! Ask around or visit the Involvement Fair to find something you like. There’s even a Tea Club!
2. Find Your Favorite Study Spot On Campus
It seems simple enough, right? However, it’s surprising to see many Huskies either stay in their dorm or the library for those daily study sessions. The Storrs campus is too beautiful and big to not find that little gem you can call your own. My favorite hideaway was always the Wilbur Cross library. It has a classical aesthetic, decorated with portraits and shelves of books. Also, super quite and comfy with those fancy chairs.
1. Attend A Basketball Game In Gampel/Get On The Jumbotron
In my sophomore year of college, I was lucky to get front row tickets for the UConn Women’s basketball team against Syracuse. A mix of an ecstatic student section and heated rivalry was an unforgettable experience in Gampel. The women’s team balled out with a whopping score of 94-64. Ya know, casual.