As happy and relieved as we find ourselves at the conclusion of final exams, a sad reality check quickly sets in that many UNC students are about to scatter across the country (and the world) for the summer. Whether it be to go home for a summer job, head to NYC or another major city for an internship, or jetset across the Atlantic or Pacific to study abroad, we usually have to say a sad goodbye to most of our UNC friends until August. However, a surprisingly large number of UNC students stay in Chapel Hill for a while during the summer, either to take classes during one or both of the summer sessions offered or to intern or work in the Chapel Hill area.
For those of you lucky enough to stay in this wonderful place longer than most, here's a list of ten things that you absolutely must make sure you get to do during your summer time here in Chapel Hill.
1. Work up the nerve to jump off the cliff at Eno Quarry.
Remember to bring a picnic lunch and a blow-up raft to float on the lake. Swim across the lake and back to justify stopping at Cookout, which is conveniently located right on the way back to Chapel Hill, for a milkshake afterwards.
2. Go on a walk at Mason Farms—a beautiful, peaceful two-mile walking/hiking loop that is located besides Finley Fields golf course, just off of the driving range.
If you go around sunset it is even more gorgeous. If you're looking for a more strenuous workout, it's a great place to go on a quiet, scenic run as well.
3. Enjoy the Carolina Crunch ice cream at Maple View Farms in Hillsborough.
Not only is the ice cream to die for, but the scenic drive through the countryside is a great study break from the summer session midterms that seem to occur every single week.
4. Jump in the Lux pool at night, with or without clothing.
Just make sure none of the Lux property managers catch you.
5. Splurge on a shopping spree in the boutiques on Franklin Street.
With Southpoint Mall just ten minutes away, it's easy to find yourself always driving there to search for a few new outfits. The adorable and affordable boutiques along Franklin, such as Bluetique and Fedora, offer some unique, trendy alternatives in our own backyard.
6. Go to a UNC baseball game, one of the few athletic teams whose season lasts into the summer time.
Cheer on your Tar Heels while catching some rays in Boshamer Stadium.
7. Eat a BLT with avocado at Merritt's on a Sunday afternoon and listen to one of the many local folk bands that play there.
8. Run up and down every flight of stairs in Kenan Stadium.
Don't be discouraged if you can't do it the first couple times, but make it your goal to be able to do it by the end of your month (or by the end of summer). It'll negate the regretted late-night pizza and Ben & Jerry's runs.
9. Make a meal made solely out of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables from the Carrboro Farmers' Market.
During the summer, it's open from 7 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
10. Stargaze with someone in Kenan Stadium at night.
Since the field itself is usually closed off, bring a blanket or two so you can lay on the bleachers if need be. I promise this will be a lot more fun than running the stairs in the same stadium.
