Top 10 things you should do before you graduate

Graduation is a scary thing. It’s even scarier for people like me who are a. still unemployed, b. enjoying college and c. really, really not ready to become an adult. Unfortunately, though, it’s a reality that all of us seniors are going to have to face in just 72 meager little days. There are so many things to do at Tufts, and four years is definitely not enough time to do all of them. I think starting now, however, is a fair enough head start that you can manage a handful of these before the big day comes. Even if you’re not a senior, get started on some of the top 10 things to do before you graduate from Tufts.

1. Paint the cannon

Probably the most notable tradition that is still left at Tufts, painting the cannon is something that defines the Tufts experience. Whether it’s with a club or just a group of friends, buy some paint, get outside and defend that big colorful blob of a masterpiece that you create 'til the break of dawn.

2. Eat at Moe’s

Shame on you if you haven’t done this by your senior year -- unless you’re a vegetarian, a vegan, gluten intolerant, or have one of the many limiting allergies that could prevent you from indulging in generally juicy burgers. Moe’s, however, is one of the staples of Tufts’ late night food, and I for one will be sorely missing (slash craving) it when I leave.

3. “Explore” the Tisch stacks

Search for books -- or romance -- among the shelves of the library. If books are really your thing, go to a random aisle and pick out a topic that you’d never think to research. If they’re not, then... well… there are other traditions you could partake in down there...

4. Take your favorite professor to lunch

You (hopefully) have that one professor who you’ve always been dying to talk to and pick their brain about the subject they teach. They’re so much smarter than you, it’s intimidating! But overcome your fears and bring them to the Tower Cafe (or any cool food location). Or at least go to their office hours -- you do realize they set aside that time to talk to you, right?

5. Get #flung at spring fling

Take that as you will, but don’t miss out on the popular student event just because you don’t like the artist (or because you have “too much work” or because you’re too cool, etc. etc.). Spring fling is an event that unites all students -- in the sun, on the Prez lawn -- to bask in the glory of spring and music and happiness and warm weather FINALLY.

6. Attend a cool student performance

If the symphony orchestra’s not your thing, try watching something new and different, like Kiniwe or the Javanese Gamelan Ensemble. Or see one of the many dance groups. Or attend a drama performance. No matter what type of performance, there are so many talented people that are always on stage here. And the best part is that most of these performances are FREE (or very cheap)!

7. Go to a local bar event (assuming you’re 21)

If you’re a senior, you’re probably 21 (though I know there are always exceptions). So, go to a bar in Davis. There’s karaoke at the Painted Burro and trivia night at P.J. Ryan’s in Teele Square(both on Tuesday nights). Scattershot, an awesome cover band, plays at the Burren on Thursday nights. There’s so much to do within walking distance from Tufts, so take advantage of it while you can!

8. Have your name published in the Daily

Some people who have made big waves in the Tufts community (and the world!) have made their way into Daily articles through their accomplishments. However, if you’re still looking to have your name in the paper, there are other ways (and no, I don’t mean getting into trouble). Write an op-ed, take a photo or contribute to one of the sections (hint: Arts is looking for reviewers!). We’ll be happy to see them!

9. Go to the Loj

It’s not just for TMC members! The Loj is a great way to get off campus, bond with your friends and explore the great outdoors in New Hampshire. Go hiking, skiing or whatever kind of outdoor activity you love, and then come back to the cozy log house that Tufts students have been cherishing for years.

10. Watch the sunrise from the Tisch roof

Camp out on the roof overnight -- or just go super early -- to watch the sun rise over Boston. Doing this will probably make you very nostalgic and you’ll never want to leave this beautiful campus, but it will give you a good view to take with you as you march (or perhaps stumble) into the adult world.

Bonus: Barmichael

Sneak your favorite drink into one of the dining halls to pregame. Alternate title: Dew-inking?