TAKE A PICTURE AT THE “U” STATUE
While this is one of the simpler tasks on the UM Bucket List, it’s essential. Many students take advantage of this photo-op as visiting high school seniors after they’ve made their decision to attend the greatest school on earth. It is also mandatory to take the same picture four years later in a cap and gown.
SNAP A SELFIE WITH SEBASTIAN
Sebastian is undoubtedly one of the most badass mascots around (may we never forget the time he almost got arrested at FSU in 1989). Just by watching his moves on the football field or the basketball court, it is easy to tell that this ibis has some swag. He’s a campus-celeb, so make sure to take a selfie with Sebastian when you can.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER AT THE END OF THE FIRST QUARTER
Speaking of Sebastian, he has the honor of “extinguishing” all the Canes in the student section. It looks awesome from both the student section and from afar, and it also cools down anyone within spraying distance. It gives students the extra push they need for the second quarter before making a run to the buses at half time. Few students are given the opportunity to partake in this tradition, but when else do you have the chance to spray your friends with a fire extinguisher and not get fined?
PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER IN THE STACKS
If you didn’t pull an all-nighter at least once, did you really ever go here? While the stacks can be a bit intimidating, they are the perfect place to focus if you have an entire night’s worth of studying ahead of you. We all know that pulling all-nighters isn’t great for your health– you lose brain cells, you don’t retain as much information and so on– but let’s face it, we’re all super busy, and sometimes 3 a.m. is the only time to get started on that 10-page paper. Remember to bring a water bottle, snacks and make a pit stop at Starbucks: you’ll need it.
ENJOY PITCHERS #ATTHERAT
Remember rushing to class on a hot Friday afternoon, envying the seniors with pitchers upon pitchers in front of them? Those days are finally over. Missing class to spend your 21st birthday at the Rat should be an excused absence. Your friends may only stop by for an hour or so, but clear your schedule, stay from open until close and make sure the pitcher is never empty.
LIV IT UP
Clubbing at LIV on your 21st is a must. How many people can say they partied at an exclusive, celebrity-frequented club in SoBe to celebrate the big 20-fun? You will always remember (well, maybe not) fist bumping until 5 a.m. at one of the best clubs in the country. Major key: D.J. Khaled stops by and buys you a drink.
DRINK A MILKSHAKE FROM THE LIGHT
The baseball stadium’s milkshakes are seriously life changing. No offense to the team, but most people go to the games for the shakes (but stay for the game, obvi). The line will probably be hella long, but any alum will tell you that you’re missing out on the experience of a lifetime if you don’t endure the wait.
TRY CUBAN COFFEE
Cuban coffee may be one of the best creations of all time, and it’s a shame that it’s only a big deal in Miami. Warning: if you’re one of those people who claim they like coffee, but go to Starbucks and order a caramel mocha latte or a Frappuccino, this isn’t for you. Cuban coffee is strong and hits you fast, which makes it perfect for college students. One shot before class and you’re ready for the day.
PLAN A FARMERS MARKET PICNIC
Here at the U, we’ve got it good, and one of the biggest perks is the farmer’s market every Wednesday where you can score fresh food on the go. Grab a few friends, pick up some of that famous kettle corn or some freshly made Zak the Baker bread, sit on the Green and let the day just float by.
GROVE, GROVE, GROVE
Every college town has its typical college bar scene, and for us, that’s the Grove. Tuesdays and Thursdays bring out our crazy sides as we let loose and take some $1 shots. But don’t be turned off by sticky floors and annoying drunks; the Grove is also full of great restaurants and boutique shops. So, if chugging some beers at Cudas isn’t your scene, there’s definitely still something for you.
TAN AT THE POOL
We know, we know: we live where everyone vacations. Prove it to your out-of-state friends with a series of pool Snapchats in that new swimsuit you just bought. Caption it “hot dogs or legs” for that added touch of wit and sarcasm. We’ve waited endless months for the construction on the pool to be over, and now it’s time to make the most of it.
HAVE A WYNWOOD PHOTOSHOOT
Students take Miami’s art and culture scene for granted. Wynwood is rapidly becoming one of the cultural hubs of the country, yet we only see it as a cool place to drink on Saturdays. Show all your friends why your city is the best with a photoshoot featuring the dope art found in the area. Sure, it’s basic, but it’s kind of a must if you’re a student. Just ask the people with hundreds of Insta likes.
GO TO LATIN NIGHT @ANYWHERE
Miami is basically a gateway to Latin culture. See what all the fuss is about and head to any Latin night you can find. We suggest Baru in Brickell or El Patio in Wynwood. Extra points if you order a mojito and salsa dance the night away with a mysterious stranger.
HIT UP A HEAT GAME
It may not be where it was a few years ago, but the Miami Heat is still a damn good basketball team. Combine that with rowdy fans and the nonstop party atmosphere of this city, and you’ve got yourself a fun date night, girls’/guys’ night out or business meeting (if you’re fancy like that). If you’re ballin’ on a budget, there are seats in the upper sections that won’t break the bank.
AIRBOAT RIDE IN THE EVERGLADES
Did you just LOL? Because this is not a joke. If you think airboating is just for hicks, you’ve clearly never experienced the thrill firsthand. The Everglades is a beautiful piece of land that’s thankfully preserved by the government, and the best way to explore it is to hop on a little boat propelled by a giant fan. Not only are you closer to the wildlife than you’d ever be on an actual boat, but there’s just something about grinning goofily while the wind bringing tears to your eyes that makes it such an authentic experience.
words. distraction staff. photo. sidney sherman.
