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THE BEAUTY OF A ROAD TRIP

Ellie Buss Student Contributor, University of California - Berkeley
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UC Berkeley chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

For this spring break instead of flying somewhere, I’m opting to go on a road trip with my friends to Southern California. Yes, flying would probably be quicker, and, when you factor in gas, possibly cheaper too, but really nothing beats the feeling of being on the open road listening to music and talking with your friends.

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved road trips. My family would drive to the beach (Long Beach, WA) and Bend, OR every summer. It was always my favorite part of the year. Being in those places was always fun, but what I really loved was the trip there. It was so fun dancing and singing in the car with my parents, seeing the scenery, getting snacks from different places (I loved when we’d get blizzards or McDonalds cones!), and just feeling like you could go anywhere. It’s those memories and feelings that have created my love for road trips that has followed me to my adult years.

Every year since I moved to Berkeley, I’ve had to road trip to campus as I’m from the state of Washington. Then, in my junior year, I brought my car to school and had the added opportunity to drive my car back during winter break. Even though it’s a nine and a half hour drive, I still genuinely enjoy this drive and look forward to it every year. The drive from Washington to California is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever been on. If you’ve never done it, I highly recommend it. The route goes through both Mt. Shasta and Mt. Ashland, which has beautiful views of the mountains and lakes. You can also split the ride into two and enjoy a longer visit to one of the places you pass through as well. We just tried to make it efficient the last time we went. It’s also always fun to stop at food places too. We always stop at In-N-Out. Road trips like these are what make me want to keep doing them.

It’s these past experiences that have made me decide to do a road trip this spring break! I’m excited to drive and see the sights around me (getting food along the way will be fun too)! Sometimes all you need for a good time is the open road and some good company. If you’re hesitant to go on road trips this is your sign to give it a try!

Ellie Buss

UC Berkeley '26

Ellie is a Senior at the University of California, Berkeley double majoring in English and Media Studies. She is currently a staff-writer for the Berkeley chapter in the editorial department.

Ellie has experience in media, film, public relations, and writing. She enjoys writing personal blogs and essays in her free time as well as articles about all things pop culture. After graduating, Ellie aspires to enter the media and communications industry where she can continue to share stories.

When Ellie is not writing, she loves dancing, and is involved in three dance clubs on campus, listening to music, watching movies, spending time with friends and family, and eating ice cream.