Ram Horn Wish
If you went to orientation, you already have one item done! As a long standing tradition, VCU freshmen make a wish at the Ram Horns outside the Student Commons. Whether you wished to ace all your classes, find love, graduate early, or anything else, perhaps it will come true…
Trip on the Sidewalk in Public
Chances are, you’ve already completed this one as well. The uneven brick sidewalks are equal parts annoying, embarrassing and hilarious. Combine the bricks with a tipsy stroll home or an icy walk to class in winter, you can’t avoid gravity here. Ten extra points if you trip right in front of your crush.
Get Soaked
Richmond will have cloudless skies one minute and monsoon the next. If you haven’t been soaked on the way to or from class, are you even a VCU student? Maybe you just know how to be a prepared adult but either way, becoming a victim of RVA’s weird weather is a rite of passage.
Late-Night Red Eye/Christian’s Run
Honestly, food tastes better after 1 a.m. Red Eye’s warm cookies and Christian’s perfect $2 pizza slices will change your life. Both places are a VCU campus staple.
Belle Isle
Despite being a city, Richmond has easy access to nature via Belle Isle. Grab a group of friends and head to the river to soak up some sun, make new friends, and explore the interesting little island. Just remember your sunscreen!
Make a Friend in Every Class
Part of freshman year is about getting out there and finding some great friends. Class is a great place to do this because these are people you will be seeing for the rest of the semester. Plus, having a study buddy and project partner is invaluable!
Find a Favorite Coffee Shop
One of the best things about Richmond is how college student-friendly it is. AKA there is a coffee shop about every 20 feet. Whether you prefer Lamplighter, Harrison Street, Dunkin’, or any other spot, every student needs a special coffee place, especially before the 8 a.m. class you may be regretting signing up for.
Get a Tattoo
Everyone has a tattoo in Richmond. Every. Single. Person. At least is certainly seems that way. While this may be a little unrealistic for your first year in college, you can bet you will have one (or six) by the end of your VCU experience.
Take a Mural Walk
Richmond is known for three things: hipsters, food and murals. Grab some friends or go by yourself and explore the area to find your favorite mural.
Go to a Festival
From the Watermelon Fest to Carytown Pride, Richmond events never disappoint. If it is a weekend and the weather is nice, there is probably an amazing festival, concert or event to attend.
Join an Organization
An essential part of the college experience is joining a group or club. Most organizations (like Her Campus at VCU!) are great resume builders and are where you will have some of your best experiences. They are also a chance to make many of your very best friends.
Want to learn more about becoming a part of the Her Campus at VCU team? Come to our interest meeting on Aug. 31 at 9 p.m. in Virginia Room D. Already know you can’t wait to be on the team? Apply here by Sept. 2!