10 Things To Do Before You Graduate UVA

Mary Douthitt
Forge
Published in
3 min readApr 6, 2023

Whether Fourth Years want to accept it or not, Graduation is quickly approaching. But worry not! There’s still plenty of time to check off the most important activities and accomplishments. Check out the list below to get some inspiration for your top priorities!

  1. Get the #1 Ticket at Bodo’s

If you wake up early enough, you can eat a delicious bagel, maybe watch the sunrise, and feel a sense of superiority for achieving this elusive task. Personally, I have yet to get out of bed and haul myself to Bodo’s at the crack of dawn, but who knows, maybe one of these days I’ll find myself with a bagel craving at 6:30 am that can’t be ignored.

2. Go on one last sunrise hike at Humpback

Just 30 minutes from grounds, and a must-do for every UVA student at least once! A sunrise hike is another early morning activity, but if you don’t want to wake up that early, the views are phenomenal at any time of day. Bonus points if you take in the views on Skyline Drive on your way there.

3. Go to a UVA sporting event

Basketball season is over (I don’t want to talk about it.), but there are plenty of other sports games to attend! Don’t count out club sporting events as a fun activity too!

4. Have a picnic on the lawn

Whether you pick up some food or cook it yourself, the lawn is the perfect spot to lay down a blanket and picnic with friends.

5. Go to the Foxfield Races

Enjoy the beauty of the countryside and watch some spectacular horse racing. What more could you need?

6. Get a meal at all of your favorite restaurants

I don’t know about everybody else, but I will mourn the loss of some of my favorite Cville staples after I graduate. Where am I supposed to get both wings AND tacos in one glorious Dos Amigos combo other than Asado? Eat up while you can.

7. Visit a winery or brewery

Since most Fourth years are over the age of 21, there are some more activities in Charlottesville to explore. There are lots of wineries and breweries offering great drinks as well as concerts, food trucks, and amazing views.

8. Sit in on a class outside of your major

If you get an instructor’s permission, this is a cool way to learn something new and take advantage of the diverse areas of study offered here!

9. Paint Beta Bridge

Did you know the tradition of painting Beta Bridge has been around for almost 200 years? Be a part of this tradition and leave your own mark!

10. Streak the lawn

Another tradition that is so ingrained in UVA culture it’s practically a graduation requirement.

Hope you enjoyed our list and that these activities will help you make the most of your last few months at UVA!

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