Okay, here’s the thing; I’m graduating next summer, and I can’t be the only one feeling like I haven’t fully accomplished everything I should’ve before leaving this campus. Lately, I can’t help but think of the last 4 years I’ve spent here. Was my time spent wisely? Should I have gotten out more? These thoughts are literally haunting me in my sleep. Standing on the brink of graduation, I made an attempt to list out some things I could do (and probably should do) before I graduate; because I would dread the feeling of missing out on something, just because I didn’t know about it (or maybe I have fomo, idk).
Well, if you’re still living the dream—or the nightmare, depending on the week—here’s my super-chill, trying not to break the bank, possibly biased bucket list of stuff you could do before you toss that graduation cap in the air:
Hit up a Food Skills Workshop
I know what some of you might be thinking. “I barely cook for myself at home, and now I’m doing it in a class?” But please trust me on this one. This weekly peer-led workshop teaches a new recipe with all the ingredients provided (yes, it’s free). Everyone gets their own station, and the facilitator walks you through the recipe! It’s a first-come, first-serve deal, and spots (just nine!) fill up fast. So come on over, bring your friends, and hit up one of the weekly Food Skills Workshops!
Pro tip: Walk-ins only, so show up early—doors open at 4:50 pm.
Even if you suck at cooking, the vibes (and the food) make it worth it.
Glow with the Flow
Our annual neon yoga event is back and ngl, I’ve been sleeping on this one (No but literally though. I’ve missed out on this every year because I keep taking naps at this time). This high-energy neon night is the kind of vibe I personally need before finals. Guys, I am NOT a yoga pro at all, but even I’m tempted to go. And if you’re not really into yoga, their glow party runs right before it!
Learn more about Glow with the Flow here!
P.S: You can also join me tomorrow at 5 pm for Neon Night as UBCO Heat takes on UBCV Thunderbirds in a game of basketball at the Furnace!
Cheer at a Heat home game
While we talk about varsity games, there’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of cheering for the home team and just yelling with a crowd, with team colours painted on your cheek. I like to think that this is an essential uni experience that everyone should try at least once while they’re still in uni. Also, it’s lowkey a good excuse to scream at the top of your lungs and let it out!
Reminder: Heat home games are FREE for all UBCO students!
Make a time capsule
Try making a time capsule for future you to rediscover in the future. You can add a letter, some old notes, and little mementos like doodles or photo booth strips from events! Stash it somewhere safe and let it sit for some time (can be months, years even). Time capsules give you the chance to lock in the memories and growth of your uni years, and I think it’s a total must-do for peak nostalgia.
Try any trivia night at the Well
(placeholder for a trivia night pic after I attend one!)
I’ve always said “I should go to trivia night” and then, well… didn’t. Despite missing out on countless nights, The Well somehow always has events lined up for you. Their trivia nights have so much variety such as Friends, Taylor Swift, horror movies, you name it!! But if you’re not into trivia, maybe you’ll be into karaoke, which they often also host at the Well!
Maximize my insurance coverage
So, I recently just got an eye exam (#FutureContactsUser) and it was completely covered under our student insurance. Your plan covers a ton of stuff you might not even know about—like prescription glasses, dental cleanings, and even therapy sessions. Now I’m plotting to use up every bit of student coverage I’m eligible for before I lose them post-graduation.
Not sure what you’re covered for? Check out the details here and make the most of it while you still can!
Play tourist in Kelowna
Playing tourist is such a cute way to rediscover the city before you leave, or if you just want to explore Kelowna!
Start with the classics: have a stroll along the waterfront (love Boardwalk btw), check out the farmers market, and visit that museum or gallery you’ve always meant to go to.
Get cheesy with it—snap pics of everything, and maybe even buy a souvenir (the tackier, the better). Soak in those “I can’t believe I live here” vibes before you (might) head out. And who knows, you might even discover a new favorite spot to add to your goodbye tour!
Do a Goodbye Tour to your favourite spots
Before I go, I’m revisiting all the places that made uni feel like home. I’m talking about the study corner that saw me at my lowest, Koi Sushi in UNC that fueled my dynamite roll addiction, and the random couch in Collegia where I had my quarter-life crisis after midterms. This is my sappy farewell to the places that got me through. Pics will be taken, tears may be shed.
Final thoughts?
How are you guys feeling about graduating? Hope this list helped you guys like it did for me. Btw, what’s on your bucket list? Let me know—because I might need to add a thing or two!
About the Author
Iman Iskandar is a 4th-year Psychology BA major with a minor in Management, born and raised in Malaysia. She loves her cat, Jasper, and has far too many trinkets scattered around her room. She finds joy in life’s little pleasures — whether it’s listening to music, savoring ice cream, or getting creative with her scrapbooking projects.
