The Ultimate College Bucket List – What To Do Before You Graduate

Don’t let some of the best four years of your life pass you by! Here’s the best version of the ultimate college bucket list! And a FREE download!

Are you new to campus and ready to start making the most of your college experience? Or maybe you’re a college senior wanting to make sure you don’t miss any big memories before you graduate and leave the campus you’ve called home for the past few years.

Wherever you are in those scenarios, I’m sure you’ve spent time on Pinterest, TikTok, or maybe even Lemon8 looking up college bucket lists. You can stop scrolling because I’ve got the ultimate college bucket list right here for you.

Why make a bucket list?

If you hadn’t thought about making a bucket list, you may be wondering what’s the point. Besides just being a bunch of fun activities for college students to do, a bucket list can be a lot more than that. Here are a few reasons.

To make memories

Part of what makes college so great are the memories that you get to look back on. It’s easy to get caught up in routines and forget to go make those memories. A bucket list not only gives you bucket list ideas, but reminds you to actually do them.

Push you out of your comfort zone

You could put all easy tasks, that you have no problem completing, on your list. Where is the fun in that though? Take some risks and add some activities that will get you out of your comfort zone. You may find that those are the ones you cherish the most later on in life.

Bonding activities

Bucket lists are a great way to bond with your roommates, best friends, and/or anyone living in your hall. Whether you do the whole list together or just one or two activities, make it a point to do one or the other. You could even create the list together.

Last hoorah

This point is for you seniors reading. Believe me when I say, your senior year will fly by. Be sure you are prioritizing time to do the things you haven’t gotten to do yet. Those would be perfect to do with other seniors. You’ll want those memories after graduation has passed.

Your future self will appreciate all the fun things you did in your last year before your enter the real world!

Types of Activities To Put On A Bucket List

Most bucket list activities can belong to one of these three categories. There may be others, but these are the most common.

• The Basics: These include things like going to a football game, taking a photo with the mascot, pulling an all nighter, etc..
• Adventurous Activities: These activities would most likely push you out of your comfort zone. They are most often the most memorable as well. Some examples are running a 5k, going to karaoke night, going kayaking, etc..
• Campus-Specific: Most, if not all, campuses have those activities that are like unspoken rules that all students do at some point in their college career. For the University of Wisconsin it’s the State Street Halloween Party , at the University of Chicago they host the world’s largest scavenger hunt, and if you attend Purdue University you can’t miss their “Breakfast Club” tradition. When I was at school at Liberty University our “thing” was painting this big rock we had on campus. What is your school’s “thing?” Let me know in the comments.

How To Make A Bucket List

If you’re wondering how you are going to remember how to do all of the activities I’m about to list for you, don’t worry. Here are three ways you can take what you read here and make it your own. That way you have it close by when you feel like marking something off your bucket list.

• Write it down: Writing things down helps commit it to memory, plus you can place it somewhere you’ll see it often. You can do this by using a simple pen or pencil and sheet of paper. However, being the lover of colors that I am, I recommend using gel pens or markers for an extra fun touch.
• Create it: If you want to get creative with your bucket list, this is a fun option. Bring out the poster paper, magazines, tape, and any other crafting supplies you think you may need. It’s almost like a vision board and bucket list combined.
• Save it to your phone/computer: Is digital your preference? I have an option for you as well. At the end of today’s post you’ll find an image that you can save to your phone.

The Ultimate College Bucket List

Here’s the list you’ve all been waiting for. Be sure to save the photo down below so that you can access the list easily.

I’ve left some blanks on the image so that you can add your own to the list. To do this you’ll just need to download a photo-editing app like PicsArt or Canva and use the text feature.

Take a photo with the school mascot

Don’t miss an opportunity to grab a picture with your school’s mascot! There’s a good chance you’ll have several opportunities to do this but don’t miss the chance while you have it!

Go to a college sports game

Go support your school’s teams and cheer them on during a home game. You can even dress up in the school’s colors for an extra fun time. And intramural sports count too!

Pull an all-nighter

This one isn’t a requirement, but it might be something you want to add to your college bucket list. Get a group of college friends together and see who can stay up the longest! You’ll have a better time doing it with friends on Friday night – trust me!

Just make sure you mix in some snacks, movies, and games to keep it fun and avoid falling asleep.

Go on a hike

Most college towns have great hiking trails nearby. Make sure you grab a group of friends and get out for some fresh air one day. You can even take a picnic lunch to make it an afternoon adventure!

Head to a national park and take lots of pictures so you can look back on your time outdoors, and don’t forget to bring water and sun protection.

Roadtrip with friends

Road trips are a great way to make memories with your friends. Gather at least one car full of people and take off for the weekend. Depending on the location, you could plan activities like camping, visiting amusement parks, or visiting multiple cities along the way. You can even create an itinerary to make sure you get all of your stops in if time is

Explore your college town

Take some time to explore your college town. You never know what hidden gems you may find. From fun little trinket shops to amazing restaurants, you can discover all kinds of things. Make it a date with friends, or an adventure for yourself! There’s always something new to explore in a college town – take advantage of that while you’re there.

Football season is an exciting part of college life! Invite some friends and head to the stadium for a game. Whether it’s your school’s team or another, you’re sure to have a great time with all of the action on and off the field. Plus, there are usually plenty of snacks and souvenirs available for purchase so you can take home some memories.

Have a Friendsgiving

Friendsgiving is a great way to bond with your friends and celebrate the holiday season. Get together and plan a fun menu, bring some decorations for the table, and enjoy each other’s company around the dinner table. It’s also a great time to exchange gifts or make memories that will last long after you all leave college.

Go to Karaoke Night at a bar

Karaoke night is an entertaining way to enjoy a night out with your friends. Whether you’re singing along in the crowd or belting out solo at the mic, karaoke can be a great time for anyone involved. Plus, there’s usually some kind of food and drink specials available so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank!

Go to a school event

Most universities offer a variety of events throughout the year, from music and art to sports and lectures. Make sure you check out your school’s calendar of events so that you don’t miss out on any opportunities for attending great activities! Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people and learn something new.

Join a club or sports team

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Joining a club or sports team is a great way to meet new people and become a part of the college community. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your interests. Whether you’re interested in music, art, or academics, there are plenty of clubs available for you to join! Plus, participating on a sports team can be an excellent way to stay active and have fun.

Have a movie, or show, marathon

Movie marathons are a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with your friends. Pop some popcorn, pull up some chairs, and get ready for a fun night in! You can even go one step further and make it into a themed marathon – think Harry Potter, Marvel movies, or classic Disney films. Pick up some snacks at the store beforehand to make it extra special.

Host a party

Hosting a party can be an exciting way to celebrate with your friends. Whether it’s for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because – parties are always a great way to come together and have some fun! Get creative with decorations and plan out some snacks and games that you can enjoy together.

Learn about your school’s history

Take some time to learn about your school’s history and culture. Read up on the founding of the university, any traditions they may have, or any notable alumni that attended your school. You can even attend a tour of the campus if there are any available! It’s an interesting and informative way to get to know your alma mater better.

Go to a concert

Grab some friends and go to a show! Live music is one of the best parts about college life, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to attend. Make sure you check local venues for upcoming shows or even look into festivals if they’re available in your area. Not only will you have a great time but it’s also an excellent way to support local artists.

Visit friends at other colleges

Take a road trip with some friends to visit students at other colleges. You’ll get to make memories together, explore new places, and meet some of your friend’s college buddies! Plus, you can check out what’s happening on different campuses so you can compare experiences – this is especially useful for any prospective college students.

Go to a basketball game

Head to the basketball court and catch a game with your friends. Show your school spirit by wearing the colors or cheering on your team! Basketball games are always loads of fun, and it’s a great way to bond with people who share the same enthusiasm for the sport as you. Don’t forget to bring some snacks for halftime so you can keep the energy up.

Eat at every dining location on campus

Most college campuses have a variety of food options, from cafeterias to restaurants. Make it your mission to sample all the different places on campus! You never know when you might find a hidden gem that serves up your favorite dish. Plus, it’s a great way to explore and discover new flavors.

Volunteering is a great way to give back and make a difference in your community. Look for organizations or causes that you’re passionate about, and then dedicate some of your free time to helping out. You can even ask friends to join you so you can make it into an activity. Plus, volunteering looks great on resumes so it’s definitely worth doing.

Go to a career fair

Career fairs are a great way to get a feel for potential career paths and find out more about job opportunities. Attending one can be beneficial whether you’re just starting your college journey or getting ready to graduate. Plus, you can make important connections that could help you in the long run!

Try something new (new hair color, new food, new hobby, etc.)

College is a great time to experiment and try something new. Step out of your comfort zone by trying a new hair color, picking up a new hobby, or trying a food you’ve never had before! As long as it’s safe and within reason, why not give it a shot! It could open up some interesting opportunities that you wouldn’t have otherwise.

Go on a Spring Break trip with friends

Spring break is a great time to take a trip with friends and make some memories. Whether you’re heading out on an international adventure or just taking a road trip, it’s always exciting to explore new places with people you love! Plus, it’s an excellent way to get away from school and the daily grind for a week or two.

Tailgate before a game

Tailgating is a college tradition that shouldn’t be missed! Head out to the stadium and have some fun with your friends before cheering on your team. Make sure you come prepared with snacks, drinks, and plenty of spirit – in no time you’ll be ready to show your school pride!

Get to know 5 people in your dorm building

Getting to know the people in your building is a great way to be part of the community and make some new friends. Introduce yourself to at least five of your neighbors and start getting together for activities like movie nights or game nights. Who knows, you might even find someone who shares some of the same interests as you!

Go to a school play

Check out a school play – it’s an exciting way to experience the arts and support your peers. You can even get tickets ahead of time so you make sure you don’t miss out on the show! Plus, seeing a play is also a great way to discover different stories and perspectives that you may not have encountered before.

Attend a campus event

Campus events are one of the best parts about college life! Take some time to explore what’s happening around you and attend a few gatherings. Not only do these events give you an opportunity to learn more but they also offer the chance to meet new people and make connections. Who knows, it might even be something you end up enjoying!

Decorate your dorm room

Your dorm room is your home away from home, so take the time to make it a place that you can enjoy. Decorate it with items that reflect your style and personality – whether it’s with wall hangings, photos, or other knickknacks. Not only will it make your space feel more inviting but it’s also a great way to express yourself.

Get a free school t shirt

It’s always fun to rock the colors of your alma mater – and what better way to do it than with a free t-shirt? Look out for events where you can snag one or check in with some student clubs on campus. With any luck, you’ll be able to add a new item to your wardrobe!

Go to a baseball game

Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon with friends. Grab some tickets for the game, some snacks, and head out to the field. You’ll be sure to have a good time! Who knows, you might even discover a new sport that you end up loving.

Take an interesting elective for fun

Take an elective that you find interesting or that piques your curiosity. It doesn’t have to be something related to your major – it could be a cooking class, a pottery class, or anything else that catches your eye! This is the perfect opportunity to explore new topics and develop skills in areas outside of your regular course load.

Spend the day at the library

Take a day to visit the campus library and explore all it has to offer. You can catch up on some of your readings, borrow books for leisure, or even find a cozy spot to study. The library is an invaluable resource that you should take advantage of during your college years!

Face a fear

College is a great opportunity to challenge yourself and face a fear. Whether it’s public speaking, heights, or something else – take the chance to step out of your comfort zone and see if you can conquer it! You never know what you may be capable of until you try.

Take part in a campus tradition

Campus traditions are a great way to get involved and experience the culture of your school. Look for activities that you can take part in, such as midnight walks or special ceremonies. These events create lasting memories and help celebrate what makes your college so unique!

Go bar hopping

Bar hopping is an exciting way to spend a night out with friends – just make sure you do it safely. Take some time to explore the different spots around town and have fun trying new drinks or playing pool. It’s also a great opportunity to unwind after a long week of classes!

Celebrate the end of finals week

Finals week is always a stressful time, so be sure to celebrate when it’s all over. Take some friends out for dinner or drinks – you deserve it! It’s also a great way to take your mind off of school and catch up with everyone before you go home for the summer.

Make a time capsule

Create a time capsule with some of your friends and fill it with items that represent the year. Include things like photos, trinkets, letters, or anything else to remind you of this special moment in time. Open it up in a few years and remember all the amazing memories you made during college!

Go to the gym

Although it may not sound like the most exciting activity on a college bucket list, staying fit and active is an important part of college life. Make sure you take some time to hit the gym every week – even if it’s just for a few minutes. It’ll help keep you healthy and energized in the long run!

Hammock on campus with friends

What better way to relax and enjoy the sunshine than with a hammock on campus? Grab some friends and spend an afternoon outside – it’s a great way to wind down after a long week of classes or studying. Plus, you’ll get to take in all the beauty of your campus from a unique perspective.

Go camping

Camping is a great way to get out of the city and spend some quality time with your friends. Look for nearby campgrounds and plan an overnight trip – it’s sure to be an adventure you’ll remember forever! Plus, you can go fishing, hiking, or do whatever else takes your fancy.

Visit the student center

The student center is a great place to hang out and relax. Spend some time checking out the different shops, cafes, and more – you never know what hidden gems you might find! It’s also a great way to get to know your campus better and meet other students who share similar interests.

Try something new

Go beyond your comfort zone and try something new – it could be anything from rock climbing to stand-up comedy. College is the perfect time to experiment and discover what you like, so take advantage of it! Who knows, maybe you’ll find a new hobby that becomes an important part of your life.

Volunteer for a cause

Volunteering is a great way to make a difference and show your support for causes you believe in.

Look for opportunities on campus or in the community to lend a helping hand – it’ll be rewarding both personally and professionally! Plus, it’s also a great way to meet new people and make lasting friendships.

Get an internship

Internships are a great way to gain experience and develop your skills. Take the time to research potential dream internships that align with your interests and apply – you never know where it might lead!

And, of course, make sure you take advantage of any networking opportunities that come up along the way.

Participate in a hackathon

Hackathons are a great way to show off your coding skills and learn some new ones. Look for events in your local area or on campus – it’s sure to be an exciting and educational experience!

Plus, you’ll have the chance to work with others who share similar interests, which can open up all sorts of opportunities.

Journal about your semester/year/college experience

Take some time to write down your thoughts and reflections throughout your college journey. It can help you process your experiences, gain perspective, and remember moments that were meaningful to you.

Plus, it’s also a great way to look back in the future and reflect on how far you’ve come!

Decorate your graduation cap

Decorating your graduation cap is a great way to commemorate this momentous milestone. Get creative and make it unique – you can even use it as a way to reflect on the things you learned during your college years.

It’s sure to be something you’ll look back on fondly for years to come! I dreamed of this day from freshman year and it was one of the best things I did in college!

Take graduation photos

Take some photos to remember all your hard work and celebrate your achievements. Have a photoshoot with friends or family, or find a scenic spot on campus and take some snaps for yourself.

It’s sure to be a memorable way to mark the end of your college journey! This might be one of the last times you get to do this.

Throw a graduation party

To really commemorate the end of your time in college, throw a graduation party! Invite all your friends and family for food, drinks, and lots of celebrating – it’s sure to be an unforgettable night.

And if you want to make it even more special, create a special playlist or rent out a venue as a surprise!

Download your college bucket list!

Rounding Out Your Ultimate College Bucket List

There you have it, the GenTwenty Ultimate College Bucket List is now yours. Let us know if you decide to do these activities and which ones you complete. Happy memory making!

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