Junior year: a compilation of lots of laughing, smiling, crying and trying to keep it all together. This school year was a rollercoaster of emotions, but I still look back on it with an overall smile on my face, and the main reason is that I branched out and tried new things. What makes college special is the growth not only physically, but also emotionally and socially. Here are 6 memories I made this year that I recommend to other college kids:
- Karaoke (Optional: With Alcohol)
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Karaoke is already a blast, especially when you do it in a private room with friends. When you get some alcohol involved, the memories become even more laughable. Now I’m not talking about getting blackout or crazy drunk, all you need is a bottle of soju or a glass or two of your favorite beverage that gets you into a happy spot. Then, sing your heart out. My friends and I recommend Max’s in Downtown LA because the rooms are great, and you can bring your own snacks or drinks for just $1 extra! This is also a great activity for my fellow extroverted introverts who like to go out and have fun, but with an intimate group. Remember to drink responsibly and have a DD or rideshare planned, this is not meant to be a dangerous or risky activity!
- Flea Market Trips
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I am the first to tell you that I am not a big thrifter, but flea markets are a fun morning or afternoon activity for you and a group of friends. One of the great parts of Los Angeles is there are countless flea markets from the Melrose Trading Post to Silverlake Flea to Rose Bowl Flea to the Santa Monica Airport Flea and much more. Flea markets are also a great way to support small businesses, and you can discover some amazing and unique finds. Then you can finish the day with a fun meal at your favorite restaurant whether it is a mega-chain like The Cheesecake Factory (the supreme American food chain) or a fun little local cafe.
Her Campus Media - The UCLA Undie Run
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Freshman BriannaRose would be horrified to hear that Junior BriannaRose is including the UCLA Undie Run on this list, but for anyone who is hesitant (including her), I would say try it at least once. You do not have to bear it all out in your underwear if you’re not comfortable (I usually wear a bra with a sweater and some type of pajama shorts); it is more just about the experience as a whole. Hanging out with friends before and after is crucial to a good experience, and it is a great way to let loose during finals week. All I’m saying is running through the tunnel around thousands of fellow students yelling while listening to drunk frat boys bang traffic signs is a surreal fever dream experience that is worth having at least once.
- Planning Weekend or Day Trips
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These types of memories are less spontaneous and do take some planning, but they are totally worth it. Almost anywhere on the West Coast is a vacation spot, so the opportunities are endless. For example, one of my best friends and I went to Seattle over Memorial Day Weekend, and it is one of my favorites if not my overall favorite memory from this quarter. We were able to save money through airline reward programs and using her home as a place to stay, so with the right budgeting and planning in advance, exploring a new area for a day or two can be totally feasible. Also, as much fun as Los Angeles is, it is good to get out of the city every once in a while.
- Whine and Wine
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Not in the mood to go out? Plan a “whine and wine.” There are so many great cheap wines (I highly recommend the Peach Bellini from Trader Joe’s). Grab a couple of friends and sit around the couch with some good music and catch up. Wine also tends to make most people relaxed, so it is a great way to end a stressful week or start a weekend where you need to destress or rejuvenate.
- Use Tiktok To Find A Fun Place To Explore
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Whenever I am bored, I go to TikTok and search for something along the lines of “things to do in Los Angeles.” I always find a fun place that is nearby and interesting. This quarter, through TikTok, I learned about Greystone Mansion park right down the street from UCLA in Beverly Hills. The park is beautiful from the gardens to the views of Los Angeles, and the best part about it is… it’s free! TikTok has helped me find multiple parks, gardens, restaurants and more to keep my schedule full yet fun!
The school year may be coming to a close, but most of these activities can be done year-round! After months of quarantine, I believe it is good for the soul to get out of the house and try new things. We’ve already lost so much time, so let’s not waste anymore!