Bucket list of things to do before you graduate UCLA
Hi Bruins! My name is Steph and I’ve been the UCLA student behind most of the blogs you’ve been reading on the BenefitsU emails for the past year. Sadly, my time at UCLA is ending soon, but I wanted to share my personal bucket list of things to do before you graduate and move away from Westwood or Los Angeles altogether.
Keep reading for my bucket list of things to do before you move back home!
Ice blocking
This is a popular UCLA bucket list item, and for good reason — ice blocking was a highlight in my college experience. All you need is a huge ice block or two from Ralph’s, some towels to lay on your icy sled and a few friends. Just pick a spot at the top of the hill by Tongva Steps (also known as Janss Steps), sit on the ice block and try not to fall off as you slide down the hill. It’s incredibly silly and your butt will be wet in the end, but ice blocking is worth it for the unforgettable experience.
Grunion run
Every year, my friends and I have gone to grunion runs at Venice Beach to watch hundreds of fish called grunions swim onto the beach to lay their eggs in the sand. Plus, on certain nights, the Venice Oceanarium sets up informational booths on the beach to teach visitors more about grunions. I highly recommend going to this unique event with a group of adventurous friends.
Santa Monica Farmers Market
I know that Westwood has a dedicated weekly farmers market, but I think you should experience the Santa Monica Farmers Market at least once. The market is located on Arizona Avenue and 2nd Street, and I love spending a Saturday morning strolling down the rows of stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods and more.
Some pro tips for the farmers market:
Save on rideshare costs and take the Big Blue Bus Line 2 for a direct line from UCLA to the market.
Bring cash! This will make your payment experience a lot smoother — not all vendors accept card payments.
Check out the Santa Monica Farmers Market website for more information.
I’ve made lifelong memories linked to each item on this bucket list, so I hope you give at least one of them a try. Thanks for reading one of my last blog posts at ASUCLA, and I wish everyone the best of luck with the rest of college!
