As my junior year comes to a close, I cannot help but feel super melancholy going into the summer before my senior year at UGA. The time has flown by faster than I could have ever imagined and I cannot wait to take advantage of every second in Athens for my last two semesters. When I look back at pictures of my freshman year self and when I think about that tiny little Brumby dorm room I lived in, it makes me realize how much I have learned in these three years at UGA.
Here are five things that UGA has taught me so far.
1. Balance. Balance. Balance.
Being a student at UGA has definitely taught me that balancing work and play is crucial. You will really thank yourself if you stay on top of your work and manage your time wisely. Ten years from now, you are going to want to remember that time you went out with all your friends and had the best night. You are not going to want to remember that time you had to stay behind to cram for your midterm. So, manage your time wisely and balance work and play.
2. Try ALL the food.
Athens is known for its amazing food and distinctive restaurants. So instead of getting your routine, yet delicious, Chipotle burrito bowl, try a new restaurant instead. There are countless places to try and it gives you an excuse to order an extra appetizer, because you just gotta try it all. Athens is truly the best place to put “foodie" on your resume, so get out of your routine and comfort zone and try something new.
3. Learn the bus routes.
Honestly, no matter how annoying, crowded, and freezing the busses can be, you just never know when you are going to need to catch Orbit to make it in time for your test. Whether you run into an unexpected thunderstorm without an umbrella, or you need to catch your professor at their office hours across campus, knowing the bus routes will help you when you least expect it.
4. MUSIC!
Go to all the concerts you possibly can. So many amazing artists and bands come through Athens, sometimes without you even realizing they're here. Always keep your eyes open for concerts and performances around Athens, because there aren't a lot of places that have tons of artists to listen to within walking distance. Really try and take advantage of the music scene and even go to the performances of bands you have never heard of.
5. Get involved.
Sometimes it can get really easy to get into that comfortable feeling of hanging out with the same people all the time and doing the same things. But, UGA has so many clubs and organizations to get involved in, so take advantage of it! There is bound to be something on campus that tailors to your interests. Whether it is a club or even just an event, you really should go. Meet new people and explore! Your time as a college student is too short, and you don't want to miss out on anything.
So far, UGA has taught me really important things. Our lives as students in Athens are too short, so don't waste a single second. Get out of your comfort zone, try new things, and don't take a single second of this amazing school and perfect town for granted.
