College Stage and Underage: Alternative Activities for UF Students Under 18

Although it may not seem very common, with the University of Florida consisting of such a diverse population, the presence of students enrolled here that are under the age of 18 is not impossible. This can make adjusting to the college life difficult as many UF students depend on midtown to be the hangout spot of choice. Meanwhile, those students who are still under the age of 18 are unable to enjoy the clubs in Midtown.
 
“Initially it kind of sucked not being 18 because when you don’t know people, going to the club is almost the only resort for being semi-social,” explained Jennifer Polexi, 16. “It definitely forced me to make friends with the random homebodies in my hall and find other things to do.”
 

Here are a few nighttime activities that you don’t have to be 18 years old to enjoy.
 
Frat/House Parties
When it comes to dancing and partying, this is the only thing you can do on or off campus that doesn’t require you to be 18. Thankfully, it’s safe to say that the University of Florida is a Greek school, with its 64 Greek organizations, and, nine times out of 10, you won’t have trouble finding something going on somewhere whether it be on campus or off campus.
 
GatorNights/Movie Nights
Regardless of whether or not it’s through the University, you can never go wrong with a simple movie night. Just get a bunch of your friends together and go as a group to GatorNights in the Reitz Union, which frequently offer new movies that aren’t still in theatres, but still haven’t come out on DVD either. Or, have your friends come over to your place, pick out a movie on Netflix or DVD, make some popcorn, and you’re good to go!
 
Concerts
One of the many perks of being a college student is that performers love to stop at college campuses. Even better is that usually it is at little or no cost at all! This fall alone Gainesville has welcomed sensations like Tiesto, Skillet, and Dierks Bentley. It’s a great way to spend time with your friends who normally go out to the club and see your favorite musicians at the same time.
 
Sporting Events
What could be better than rooting on your Gators at a fall sports event? Whether you’re watching football in the Swamp or cheering for basketball in the O-Dome, there is a sport for you. Dress in your best orange and blue, grab a bite at Gator Dining and go enjoy a night of gator chomping your way to victory. Who knows… maybe you’ll even see some famous alumni while you’re there! Olympic Swimmer Ryan Lochte and NFL quarterback Tim Tebow have been known to make guest appearances.
 
Visit the Planetarium
For a simple fee of $5.00, Santa Fe College puts on shows at the Kika Silva Pa Planetarium. One of their projectors is one of two in the state of Florida and one of ten in the world! So grab your boyfriend or make it a relaxing girls night under the stars and maybe even learn some along the way.