Once you enter college, it can feel like a race to the finish. With advising appointments and graduation checks, the clock seems to be ticking from the second you start. Although the point of college may be for that glorified piece of paper, known as a degree, it is important to enjoy your college experience for what it is. With the clock ticking, here are some ways to be sure you’re getting the most out of your college experience.

Study Abroad

College is a time for new experiences, but that doesn’t mean those have to be on your own college campus. Studying Abroad can open your eyes to the world around you, and maybe even help you graduate on time. A recent article in USA Today confirms that studying abroad makes students more culturally aware and helps with a timely graduation.

Going abroad is more than learning about another culture; it is about learning about one’s self. College is the time to grow into your own and what better way than to emerge yourself in the unknown?

My school, The University of Kansas offers over 40 semester-long study abroad programs and even more short-term and summer programs. It is an experience of a lifetime for some, and nearly 30 percent of KU students go aboard. Taking your studies elsewhere is one sure-fire way to live it up.

Be a tourist in your college town

Before you head off with your passport in hand, be a tourist in your own town first. For example, it is surprising to hear how many KU seniors have yet to escape Lawrence’s go-to restaurants – Free State Brewery, Quinton’s Bar and Grill, and El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant, to name a few. One way to explore a college town is through the eyes of a tourist. Check out the visitor center or online guides and search for some unknown spots that will be sure to satisfy. The American Institute for Economic Research ranked Lawrence ninth on its list of the 75 best college towns for good reason. Don’t even think about putting on that cap and gown without really taking advantage of what your town has to offer. Appreciate it by exploring with a new set of eyes.

Empty your pocketbook on Main Street

Most college towns have a one-stop-shop for all its gems and treasures, and Lawrence is no exception. Located downtown, Massachusetts Street is home to over five blocks full of bars and shops that offer delicious cuisine and non-stop shopping. Students frequent what they call “Mass Street” for a number of reasons, but every student is sure to find what they are looking for. Don’t get stuck into a routine of only hitting the town when the sun goes down. Be sure to take a stroll during the week, you’ll never know what you’ll find or what will find you. For example, whether it be at one of the unique clothing shops, like second-hand store, Wild Man Vintage, or at one of Lawrence’s iconic bars, like Free State Brewery, Sandbar or Replay Lounge, be sure to empty your pocketbook on Massachusetts Street before heading out of town.

Get frisky in the library

Take a new spin on the idea of a study break. Parents always tell you to hit the books hard. Give yourself something to smile about next time you’re studying in the stacks. And just remember, KU students, Anshutz library is open twenty-four hours.

Make exercise a habit

We’ve all heard of the freshman fifteen. That is something you do not want to carry around all four years of college – bookbags are heavy enough. Make exercise a habit in college while you have access to a “free” gym. KU student fees include access to its relatively new 100,000 square foot facility that is open until midnight five days a week.

In college, students know hitting the books hard is important, but hitting the gym is too. Studies have shown that exercise improves memory and your ability to learn. Take a break from studying for a quick pick-up game or a mile-long run. Health is something you can take with you for the rest of your life, too. Instill healthy habits now — that way both your body and mind are ready to put on that cap and gown.

Learn to cook one good meal

Easy Mac and Ramen Noodles can line your pantry, but don’t graduate without learning how to cook one impressive meal. Dinner parties are sure to fill your life with fun, and you don’t want to be stuck ordering take-out. Ask your mom about her famous chocolate chip cookies or your grandma for her secret recipe to those delicious mashed potatoes. You and your friends will appreciate a home-cooked meal every now and then.

Attend a free speaker or seminar

Say the word free and professors are sure to see a few ears perk up. College students thrive on the idea of living on the cheap, and who doesn’t appreciate something for free? Just like KU’s Hall Center for Humanities, which hosts free lectures and seminars that are sure to educate and entertain, there is most certainly a similar facility on your campus. Next time there is a flyer advertising a free seminar on Organic Farming in the East or a speaker from Mumbai, stop in and absorb it, because you might learn something about the world around you. What do you have to lose?

Just for Jayhawks

Swim in the Chi Omega Fountain

After diving into your books, a free seminar or a hard-core work out at the Rec, there is no better way to cool off than taking a dip in the Chi Omega Fountain. Located at the end of Jayhawk Blvd., the Chi Omega Fountain has been an iconic symbol for pranks and pool lovers everywhere. Students are known for filling the pool with bubbles or bodies as a way to pay homage to the fountain’s owners.

Allen Fieldhouse

No KU bucket list would be complete without the mention of the one and only Allen Fieldhouse. By no mistake, KU’s basketball arena has been named one of the best places to watch college basketball in America. KU fans have piled in what they call, “the Phog,” since 1955. Step inside and absorb the atmosphere while fulfilling your role as the sixth man. There is a sense of history and pride that fills the air. Only experiencing it deems you worthy of the title of a Jayhawk.

So, have you been livin’ it up?

This lists is only the beginning or maybe the end to a great college experience. Everyone needs to create their own path before walking down it. But as a current student, don’t run the risk of the looking back and saying, “what if” or “maybe I should’ve…” Be sure to live up every moment you have in college because it is only four short years – or maybe five, six or seven.

You might also be interested in:

1. Five Must-Have Experiences Before You Graduate from College
2. Mira’s Gap Year – pay attention to the little things