My senior year is starting to pick up steam. While talking to a friend who graduated, she suggested I take advantage of the year by making a bucket list. I’m inspired by this notion of things to accomplish by graduation. I’ve also had time to reflect on my time here on the hill, and compiled a list of things people of any student should do during their stay in Gambier.
Go to Honey Run
If you’ve ever heard someone reference “The Falls,” this is the place they’re talking about. Located in Howard, this is a great place to hang out on a warmer weekend with friends.
Get on any Roof / Basement
Whether it’s Peirce Tower or the roof of Smather, try and get somewhere where you’ve never been before.
Take a Class at the Craft Center
Whether you’re a knitting pro or just want to try your hand at woodworking, the Art Barn is a great place to hang out and make things in a fun and relaxing way!
Go Swimming in the Kokosing
This is another great activity to relax on a weekend in the warmer months.
Go to the Observatory
The BFEC is a great place to have a break from the stress of classes, and once a month on a Friday, Professor Turner opens the Observatory for students.
Audition for Something
Even if it scares you, college is a time to break out of your comfort zone. So try something you’ve never done before!
Stay at Kenyon Over a Break
It doesn’t have to be all summer (#KampKenyon) but staying at Kenyon is like seeing Gambier in a way you never have before. Try it—you’ll see what I mean.
Be Featured in Class Clash
Crush trivia and have your face featured in the newspaper!
Attend a Rosse Concert
I’m shocked by how many people have never been to an event hosted by the Music Department or a student music group. It’s always worth it to hear some great tunes in Rosse Hall!
Sign up for a New Club and Actually Go to the Meetings
Although we all get a little overwhelmed at the activities fair, you’ll never know what groups you’ll really gel with until you try it out! Watch your inbox for club info and go for it! You don’t need to feel pressured to stay in the group if it doesn’t work for you, but you might be pleasantly surprised.
Go to First Friday
Every first Friday of the month from May to October, the streets of Mt. Vernon are full of free samples, games, and vendors.
Shock Your Mom
“You don’t have to go every year, but just pop in once!” -Jasmine Manuel
Ring the Bells
Every Friday, you can ring the church bells! Even if you know nothing about music, you can still try your hand at this long-standing tradition.
Attend a Horn Concert
Macklemore once performed at the Horn. (I’m still bitter that this was before my time.)
Pay your Respects The Cove
Honor your forefathers and their mac & cheese wedges by spreading cheese over the remains of the beloved Gambier Grill.
Make Dinner for You and Friends
I spent many fun nights in the Bushnell kitchen making crepes and eggs with friends. Even though we love Pierce, it’s always great to make something for yourself every once in awhile, even if you don’t live in an apartment.
Get in the Village Record
Or don’t, it’s up to you.
Be Featured on the Kenyon Webpage
I’m still working on this one, but trust me, it will happen.
Go to Send Off
Even if music isn’t your thing, there were fried pickles last year. Need I say more?
What will you do this year?
Image Credit: Lexi Bollis, Ian Adams Photography, Imgur, Giphy