Smithies, the time has come for the class of 2016 to begin their final semester. Us seniors are one foot out the door with three or four easy classes left between us and shaking President Kathy's hand at graduation. The end may be approaching, but we're still in college. Three months is a long time to try new things, revisit old ones, and revel in the life of a Smithie. Here are ten things a second semester senior should definitely have on their bucket list for their last semester at Smith:
1. Eat at Every Dining Hall... In One Night.
Food. The most important of bucket list items in my opinion. If you've been on a sports team, you've probably been challenged to do this before. But as a non-athlete, it can be equally as engaging. Lamont and King Scales are great, but you'll never know what you will encounter if you venture out to one of the other 13 dining halls on campus. Go on an adventure! Better yet, go on all the adventures at once!
2. Attend One Last Smith Party.
Whether you're dressed up like a mouse, a fetish, or a member of a wedding party, there's probably a themed event that has your name on it. Smith parties may be known for being notoriously lame, but you know you're dying to relive one of the greatest nights of your life dancing to the beats of a WOZQ D.J.
3. Rock Climb at Ainsworth's Rock Wall.
Yes, there is a rock wall in that scary gym place on the other side of campus. Ainsworth is actually has a pretty nice workout environment. Take advantage of the free rock wall while you can! The real world makes you pay extra for the fun.
4. Spend an Afternoon at The Bookmill in Montague.
If you like books, and you probably do, then this magic place located 25 minutes north of Smith is perfect for you. Don't let your time at Smith go by without a trip to this book haven. Learn more about their cafe, restaurant, and used bookstore here.
5. Go to Ye Ol' Watering Hole.
There are bars. Then there are good bars. Then there's Ye Ol' Watering Hole. Right on Pleasant Street, you can find Northampton's largest beer can museum and the greatest pickle backs you will ever drink. Take your friends and be safe; it's definitely easy to get lost in the fun with the smokey atmosphere and enthusiastic locals.
6. Then Go to Sam's Pizza and or Local Burger.
We are all this guy when we try to eat food with a couple of drinks in us. A night on the town in Northampton is not complete without a stop at Sam's or Local at the fine hour of two a.m. Don't worry, if one place is closed, odds are the other is open.
7. Have Coffee With a Professor.
Get away from the classroom setting and really get to know the person behind all the inspiring knowledge over a cup of joe. Professors are people too, and they have so much to offer in terms of life advice. Don't waste this opportunity to learn from a pretty cool adult if you get the chance. Just ask! You never know what will happen!
8. Use Spring Break as an Actual Vacation.
Don't just go home and binge watch Netflix. Plan an affordable vacation or road trip with your housemates and friends. This is the last time you all will really be together; don't let it go by without a trip that you all will never forget!
9. Jump Into Paradise Pond.
Clothed or unclothed, that is your choice. But we've all go to do it at some point!
10. Swing on the Swing by Paradise Pond.
And reflect on everything you've accomplished during your time at Smith. Look out at the lake, the athletic fields and the far away horizon. Smith is the place where you learned a little more about who you are and who you want to be. Now that you know all that and you've reached a few milestones, be thankful for Smith, all the things you've learned and all the special people you've met along the way.
