I don't know where the time went, but I'm suddenly a senior. As the date of my graduation comes closer, I think about my time at Michigan and everything I've accomplished--ranging from the academic to the extracurricular. It's no secret that the UofM experience is filled with many celebrated traditions: going to football games, avoiding stepping on the 'M' in the diag, etc. Here are some of my suggestions of other activities to do before you graduate:
1. Paint the rock at night
One of the most recognizable features on the UofM campus is the giant rock on the corner of Washtenaw and Hill. Practically every morning it sports a new paint job from the night before, usually done by student organizations, people proposing to their significant others, etc. Every student should experience the thrill of painting the rock overnight at least once. Rally your student org, fraternity or sorority, job or even your group of friends to take part in this tradition. Another integral part of this ritual (for those really committed painters): stay up all night and defend your paint job. You never know who else could be eager to paint over your work.
2. Stand for hours in the freezing cold to get in the Maize Rage bleachers before a big basketball game
At some point every student should attend a basketball game and sit in the Maize Rage--one of the most spirited student sections in college basketball. For big games, this involves standing outside to try and obtain a wristband, which allows you to sit in the bleachers. These seats are the best spots in Crisler, and allow you to cheer for the home team with the most spirited students in the stadium.
3. Try a unique drink at an Ann Arbor bar
As a college town, Ann Arbor is filled with a plethora of bars, many of which feature unique atmospheres and drink selections. One of these is the infamous "Mind Probe" at Ricks--a bright pink drink that is so well-known that Mayor Michael Bloomberg referenced it in his 2016 commencement address at the Big House. On the other side of town, you can try a "pickle back" shot at Mash. Not for the faint of heart, this experience involves a shot of whiskey followed by a shot of pickle juice.
4. Go tubing down the Huron River
Ann Arbor is also a city full of public parks, many of which are along the Huron River. In 2012, the city opened the Argo Cascades, a series of manmade lazy river cascades that allow visitors to kayak or tube down the river. You can bring your own tubes or rent them from the Argo Livery. A perfect welcome week or spring term activity for all students! More information here.
5. Go to a sporting event that isn't football, basketball or hockey
Obviously, every student should attend games for the major sports teams on campus. However, there are many other teams on campus who deserve support and Michigan fan spirit. Many of these games are free to students and give the opportunity to see many of our great athletes at play. For instance, softball games are a great activity to partake in during the last few weeks of school.
6. Visit the museums on campus
The University of Michigan houses several wonderful museums, including the Museum of Natural History, the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology and the University of Michigan Museum of Art. These cultural centers are free to students and allow for education outside of the classroom. You'll find everything from dinosaur skeletons to famous Impressionist paintings and everything in between.
7. Participate in Restaurant Week
Twice a year, many of Ann Arbor's restaurants participate in restaurant week. This event allows resaurant-goers to experience as many of Ann Arbor's restaurants as possible with affordable fixed menus and prices. For example, you can try the Earle's famous duck for a low price. Check out participating restaurants and menus here.
8. Go for a hike in the Arb
The Arboretum is one of the most relaxing places on campuses, allowing students to escape to nature within the city. Whether or not you're going for a run or just need to take a study break, the Arb is always a welcoming and peaceful oasis.
9. See a midnight movie at the State Theater
One of the most recognizable features of State Street is the State Street Theater, easily visible by its giant neon facade. The theater shows new releases and also has a schedule of midnight movie classics on Saturday nights, ranging anywhere from "Space Jam" to the "Exorcist."
10. Spend an afternoon under the stars at the Planetarium
Many students are not aware that UofM has a large planetarium in the Museum of Natural History. Since 1958, students and community members have been able to come and learn about astronomy without leaving the campus. The museum website posts times for shows, which are usually on the weekends.




























