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Senior Bucket List: Things To Do At Penn State Before Graduation

It’s graduation season, folks!

In just a few more weeks, the class of 2026 will put on their cap and gown and officially become alumni of Penn State University. As each senior prepares for their last few weeks on campus and packs up their belongings, the reminiscence of the last four years begins. However, there’s still time.

Throughout their college days, students tend to think that they have plenty of time to experience and accomplish everything. But time flies, and before they know it, they are about to say goodbye to the place they called home for the last four years. Attending a school like Penn State, there is so much to see, do, and experience that it can be overwhelming to tackle it all and ensure that you make the most of your time. 

Seniors, with the last five weeks of the semester, it’s time to take advantage of what the university has to offer and experience it all before you move your tassel from right to left. To make sure you soak up your time at Penn State and accomplish everything, we created a bucket list of things to do before the semester is over. 

Attend The Blue-White Game

If you never attended a football game as a Penn State student, well, now is your chance to experience the infamous Blue-White Game on April 25. Being in Beaver Stadium surrounded by fellow Penn Staters is one of the best feelings and is something that every student should experience. Hopefully, the sun will be shining, and the vibes will be high, so you can enjoy some Penn State football.

Take A Walk Around The Entire Campus

Penn State’s campus is so big, and you may not have realized it, but there are probably areas and places that you haven’t seen. On a nice and sunny day, go outside and take a walk around campus. Explore and see what you can find. You might be surprised and find out something new about the university.

With hundreds of buildings on campus, it’s not possible to have a class in every single building during your college experience. So, explore even further and tour a few buildings that you’ve never been in and are curious about. Take your computer and study materials and find a cozy spot in one of these buildings. See a little more of the campus than what you’re used to.

Try A New Restaurant

State College is filled with some of the most incredible restaurants and cafes that you might not even know exist. When we have something that we like, we tend to go back to it over and over again. But since you’re leaving State College and probably won’t be back for some time, take this opportunity to look beyond your typical eating spots and give your taste buds a different experience. 

Get A Picture At Penn State’s Biggest Landmarks

Throughout the campus are some of Penn State’s most iconic landmarks that everyone who visits wants to get their picture with. Between the Nittany Lion statue, the We Are sign, Old Main, Beaver Stadium, and several others, there are so many places to snap a pic before heading out. Everyone knows that your parents made you get a photo in front of the Nittany Lion statue when you got accepted into Penn State or when you were younger, so compare how much you’ve changed since then to now. 

Try Every Ice Cream Flavor At The Creamery

The best place on campus. While there are many flavors of ice cream on the Creamery’s menu and tasting all of them would take a few trips, trying as many flavors as possible is essential before graduating. From Peachy Paterno to Peanut Butter Swirl, everyone has a favorite, so get yours while you still can. 

Experience Something New On Campus

We are blessed to attend a university that is full of opportunities and provides students with access to a ton of different facilities. During your time at Penn State, I’m sure there is something you have been wanting to do but haven’t gotten around to it. Whether it’s signing up for a workout class, exploring the Esports Center, going ice skating at Pegula Ice Arena, or hiking Mount Nittany, there is so much to do. Branch out and take advantage of all the activities you can do before it’s too late. 

Learn Every Word To The Alma Mater

Since you’re graduating and becoming an alum, it’s probably time to learn all the words to the alma mater. I’m sure you have heard the song before, but probably never knew all of the words and just mumbled to the beat. Well, now that graduation is right around the corner, take some time to learn the alma mater from beginning to end. It’s a Penn State tradition. 

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About the Author

Jayla Nartatez

Jayla Nartatez is a senior from Altoona, Pennsylvania, majoring in digital and print journalism. She enjoys listening to music, rewatching Grey's Anatomy, and trying new coffee shops. You can follow her on Instagram @jaylanartatez or message her at [email protected].

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