At orientation, we all received a "Must Do at IU: A Bucket List for the True Hoosier" with a list of IU traditions, big and small, to experience before graduation. As my first year comes to an end (where did the time go?), let's look at some items I can cross off my bucket list.
Go on a late night tour of campus / at night, lay on the ground and watch the lights change on the IU Art Museum / dip your feet in Showalter Fountain.
This all happened on the same night at orientation during a severe weather warning. We never went on an official night tour because of the weather threats, so a few of us decided to give ourselves a tour and cross some of these items off our lists. The severe thunderstorm never happened, and we had a marvelous time.
Attend the Little 500 men's or women's race (or both!)
One word: wow. People from all over the country come in for this. The atmosphere is truly electric! Both of this year's races came down to the final lap, and I had a blast cheering on my friends and teams. People get pretty into it.
Hear a lecture or see a show at the IU Auditorium.
Or three. They were all excellent.
Order freshly baked cookies during a late night conversation with friends.
Rock out at a live music show.
Well, I covered one.
Oh, then there was Macklemore. In a Cody Zeller jersey.
Paint your face for an IU basketball game.
Does this count?
I would also add the following to the bucket list: "lose your voice after a basketball game", "wait outside in the cold for a general admission seat" and "wake up at 6 a.m. to be on ESPN College Gameday."
Shake your groove thing at Dance Marathon.
This was one of the most inspiring nights of my life, and I still ask myself how I did it. Can't wait to do it again in November!
Eat in the Tudor Room of the IMU.
If you're a student and you go on weekdays between 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., you can access the entire buffet for $8. All the salad, yummy entrees, and scrumptious desserts you want...Just be careful not to overload!
Relax near the fireplace at the IMU.
Or if you're me, fall asleep there during class breaks. The couches are very comfortable.
Play a game of "bags" at a football tailgate.
Where I come from, we call it "cornhole." And although I never actually played at them, I did enjoy myself at a few tailgates, so consider this item crossed off.
Find your favorite local ice cream parlor.
Hello, Hartzell's!
Get a glimpse of life in Bloomington by volunteering in the community.
My sorority sisters and I take turns each week volunteering at Girls, Inc., a place where young girls can come after school and have a cool, safe place to hang out. They promote confidence and self-esteem and positive role models. We help run afternoon programs, and they range from art to sports. I've only been a few times, but I really like it and look forward to going more next year.
I didn't even list everything I crossed off my bucket list, and there are many things still left to do. I can't believe how quickly this year came and went, it really feels like yesterday that I moved in! I can't wait to see where next year takes me, and I'm so excited to welcome new Hoosiers and see them begin their bucket lists!
I will keep writing during the summer, mostly for you incoming freshmen about orientation, moving into a dorm, transitioning from high school to college, and so on. So keep checking in!