As the year comes to a close, many seniors like to reflect on all the amazing things they did at Hamilton. Here is a list of 10 things that every Hamilton student should aim to do before they graduate, compiled from students in the Class of 2019.

1. Watch the sunrise from Rodgers Estate.

Whether it’s Class and Charter Day and you are up drinking mimosas or just your average Tuesday morning, this is a Hamilton must. As someone who has done this, I can say that it is truly worth it. It is really all about the weather, so pick a great day. Make sure it is going to be sunny, clear, and not too cold. Get your friends to join for a fun time!

2. Visit Clinton Cider Mill for a famous cider mill donut.

Practically every club meeting in the fall semester has cider mill donuts to lure you in. However, you have to actually go to the cider mill for the true experience. With the smell of fresh apple cider, the rustic look of a log cabin, and the friendliest workers to welcome you, the Cider Mill is iconic. A hidden gem at the cider mill is the raspberry-filled shortbread.

3. Take a class that has nothing to do with your major.

We go to a liberal arts school with an open curriculum. Hamilton is practically begging you to go outside of your comfort zone and take new classes. If you were never exactly an artist in high school, challenge yourself to take a drawing class. Branch out of your major or minor and try something different.

4. Climb one of the 46 Peaks.

We may not be near a big city or the best restaurants in the country, but we are surrounded by beautiful nature, including the Adirondack Park. Why not take advantage of our prime outdoorsy location and climb one of the 46 peaks? There are so many opportunities to hike with the Outing Club, or just with some of your friends on a weekend.

5. Stargaze with friend.

Since Hamilton is isolated and far from a large city, there is minimal light pollution. This makes stargazing on a clear night truly astounding. You can simply lay in the grass on Minor Field or trek all the way to the Observatory to catch the full moon.

6. Explore the shops in Clinton.

The town center is oftentimes compared to the fictional “Stars Hollow” from

Gilmore Girls

, and one can see why. It is lined with family-run boutiques, filled with cheerful young children, and showcases a beautiful gazebo at its heart. Popular shops include Almost Local, the Adirondack Cheese Company Store, Artisan’s Corner, Paddywacks, Krizia Martin, Utica Coffee, Signature 81, and more.

7. Go to an a capella concert or theatre production.

We are a small school, yet there are so many extremely talented students here. With five brilliant a capella groups and numerous theatre productions a year, there are always shows to attend. Go support your peers and relax with some incredible music or experience your favorite play in action.

8. Win something at Trivia Night.

There are many teams who religiously attend trivia night every Tuesday at 8:00 PM in the Little Pub. Others may only go a few times while at Hamilton, but it is definitely a bucket list item. It makes for a fun study break, and you can win Tex-Mex or Opus gift cards.

9. Take a walk in the Glen (and find the old car).

You may sense a theme here. Hamilton is known for its natural beauty, and the Glen is no exception. The Root Glen is great for a short walk with friends and is especially beautiful in the spring and summer. The Kirkland Glen has more greenery, less flowers, and slightly longer trails. The more elusive Rogers Glen is farther away and more off the beaten path. Rumor has it you can find an old, broken down car in the Kirkland Glen.

10. Have a long, deep, insightful talk with friends at Diner B.

Diner B is an exciting place to be on the weekend no matter what state you are in. The best nights at Diner B are those spent with great friends, fried food, and deep chats about life. If you are a first-timer and want order suggestions, the chocolate chip pancakes with tater tots never disappoints.