ONE OF the best parts about the beginning of one’s fourth year is picking up one of the “109 Things To Do Before You Graduate” posters. Many of the events listed are tied to specific corporate entities, such as eating at Spudnuts, getting gelato at Splendora’s or doing “Hot Yoga.” While some of these are unique to Charlottesville and are thus an important part of University life, they also have something of a corporate taint to them. One of the joys of being a cash-strapped college student is that there are so many free (or at least minimally expensive) opportunities to take advantage of on and off Grounds. There are also many events that have no cover charge, no lines to get in, no video game consoles and that might take people outside of their normal orbits. These are my top ten unique, cheap experiences that the University and surrounding community provide.
10. On-Grounds Frisbee Golf. Although the recent construction behind New Cabell has played havoc with the course, this remains a good one to do at night, when you can get strange looks from passersby as you launch a disc down the Lawn and go running after it. Occasionally you might also cross paths with a streaker, enlivening everyone’s evening.
9. Fridays After Five. The longer I stay in Charlottesville, the more I appreciate events like these free concerts on the Downtown Mall. They are a good way to get exposure to the local scene, to blend with the townies and to take a step off Grounds, The atmosphere varies from show-to-show, but on a pleasant Friday evening there are few places more charming than the Charlottesville Pavilion.
8 and 7. Tailgate on the Lawn and Guys in Ties, Girls in Pearls. These two go hand in hand as they are inextricably “tied” to U.Va. football. No matter the result of the game, spending some time on the Lawn in one’s finery takes a little of the sting out. Plus, it is just one more way to assert our superiority over Tech. Resist the “Sea of Orange” at all costs.
6. Sledding Anywhere on Grounds. Probably the most hit-or-miss item on the list, as it depends entirely on getting enough snow to make it happen. If we should be so blessed, however, sledding down the Lawn, or on the slopes by the dell, or down 14th Street at Washington Park is a great experience.
5. Getting a Hug from Miss Kathy at Newcomb. Miss Kathy, a cardswiper at Newcomb, is potentially the friendliest person on grounds. For three years she has made lunch at Newcomb a much more palatable experience. Indeed, she almost makes having a meal plan or the 20-minute wait to get into Newcomb at noon worth it. Introduce yourself and enjoy the radiant personality she brings to the mealtime rush.
4. Check Out the Special Collections Library. It can be the most intimidating of the libraries, if only because of the arcane procedures for acquiring anything to read. But the Special Collections library is gorgeous on the inside, with a spartanly elegant reading room, winding staircases and leather seats. Its exhibits are often fascinating, making the library a must-visit spot, even for those not doing historical research.
3. Read a Book in the Amphitheatre. If you find libraries too stuffy, or unbearable on a beautiful day, the concrete slabs of the Amphitheatre might be calling you. On a choice spring day, there are few things more pleasant than lying back and reading something, whether for class or for personal pleasure.
2. Humpback Rock and the Skyline Drive. I roll these two into one because they are similar experiences. The area around Charlottesville is gorgeous, and Humpback Rock and Shenandoah National Park contain some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in the vicinity. A steep, 20- to 30-minute hike will get you to the top of the rocks, and while you try to regain your breath, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Shenandoah Valley. The Skyline Drive provides similar access to great vistas and hikes and should not be missed by any student.
1. Attend the Last Lecture Series. I have gone twice in my three years, and both times have been blown away by the intellect and passion of the speakers, who deliver the lecture they would give if they could give no more after it. Although it would be difficult to top former College Dean Ed Ayers from two years ago, I am already excited to see who is on tap for this year.
These are, of course, only one man’s preference for the best events of the 109 available. But as a fourth year who is realizing how much there is left to do, I would encourage you to take a look at a list, and either follow its guidelines, or use it as a jumping off point for experiences of your own.
Robby Colby’s column appears Thursdays in The Cavalier Daily. He can be reached at r.colby@cavalierdaily.com.
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