College graduation. We’ve read about it, thought about it and dreamed about it for years. I’m only a few days away from putting on that cap and gown, and honestly, I’m kind of freaking out!

I’m only a few days away from putting on that cap and gown, and honestly, I’m kind of freaking out! I feel torn between the excitement of moving on to a new job in “the real world” and the pain of leaving my friends and home. In 18 days, I will be an Auburn alum—and I still can’t believe it. #adulting

Although I've already spent quite a lot of time planning my last few weeks on The Plains, I'm still finding new things to add to my already packed schedule. During the past four years, Auburn has blessed me with many wonderful memories, adventures and phenomenal food! I’ve talked with some of my fellow graduating seniors as well as some Auburn alumni, and here is our list of the top 15 things that Auburn students should do before they graduate!

Have a picnic on Samford Lawn.

Consider bringing an eno, Frisbee or football for some added entertainment.

Spend as much time as you can with your friends.

You’ll probably never live this close to your friends, so make the most of it. Grab a meal together—or a spontaneous midnight trip to Sonic—and catch up!

Go to Toomer’s for some lemonade and ice cream.

You’re going to miss all the yumminess when you’re gone, I promise.

Take advantage of Chewacla.

Go hiking, mountain biking, hammocking—the possibilities are endless.

Visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art.

It’s free, and it has a wonderful collection of art from around the world—it even has a featured exhibition for art created by talented local students.

Go stargazing.

On a clear night, go stargazing and watch cars pass under you at the abandoned bridge down Wire Road.

Hit up a nice restaurant around town.

Hamilton’s, The Depot, Amsterdam and Acre are all delicious options!

Check out other iconic restaurants.

Since I’m hungry and thinking about food, don’t forget to head to Niffer’s for corn nuggets and check out Price’s BBQ for breakfast.

Walk around downtown Opelika or Columbus.

There’s a ton of cool stores and quaint spots to discover!

Bike around campus.

Rent a bike, grab your own or borrow a friend’s bike and ride around campus. Enjoy the atmosphere of the most beautiful campus in the country!*

Thank an influential professor, mentor or close friend.

I’ve met countless people over the past four years who have inspired me and helped me through many different situations, and I’m sure you have too. Thank them for all their wisdom and guidance, and let them know just how much they mean to you.

Stay up late with your pals and reminisce on the past four years.

You’ve learned so many life lessons while in college—embrace the nostalgia!

Be spontaneous with your crew.

If something sounds fun, why not do it? Be responsible, but remember that many of our favorite memories are the crazy, spur-of-the-moment ones.

Don’t take yourself too seriously.

You have your whole life ahead of you in the workforce, so enjoy your freedom now.

Finally, laugh until you cry and don’t forget the inside jokes!

These are the moments you’ll remember for years to come. After all, who doesn’t love the hilarious moments and private jokes you can bring up while Skyping with your friends five years from now?

I don’t know about y’all, but my calendar is FULL these last couple weeks in Auburn. Between school and trying to fit in as much fun and friends as possible, I’m hardly going to have a break.  If you ever have a free moment, consider adding some of these to your calendar!

I pray you look back on your time here on The Plains and think of all the hard work you've put into school, studies and involvement, but more importantly, I pray you’ll remember and cherish all of  the memories and adventures! College is probably going to be one of the best times in your life—don’t let it just slip away.

Good luck to everybody graduating in May! I can’t wait to see how far we all go! The past four years have been incredible, and I thank God for every single person I’ve met and the experiences I’ve had.

Be well, Auburn.

*According to a not-so-scientific survey of the Be Well staff.

Photography: Henry G. and Colt F.