While trudging from exam to exam through mud, wind and rain, students across campus are looking forward to four glorious months of sunshine and free time.
For many, when that last exam is over, plans will include more than just loafing on the couch. Some are taking on immense endeavors, using the sun and summer time to better themselves and learn something new.
5. Vertical Adventures: The basics of rock climbing
"I'm heading to California to learn to rock climb," said Michael Tropea, a sophomore finance major. "I can't wait for the view."
Tropea recommends that those more interested in learning the skill than seeing the scenery should find an indoor climbing center. Students sticking around UB this summer may want to check out the Niagara Climbing Center. A first-time safety lesson and day pass is only $12, and the center has over 6,000 feet of climbing space.
4. My queen killed your bishop: learn to play chess
Not every college student decides to abandon brain activity for the summer; some opt for keeping mentally active. Buy a plastic chess set and find someone who knows what they're doing.
"I want to learn some new moves and patterns so I can beat my old roommate," said Armando Ciprian, a junior civil engineering major.
Ciprian recommends chess as a summer learn. He said if anything, it gives students the opportunity to spend a picture perfect day in the park getting their butt kicked by some 10-year-old genius.
3. Habla espa?+/-ol? Parla Italiano? Sprechen Sie Deutsches? Study a new language
Azade Hosseini, a sophomore medicinal chemistry major, plans to learn Spanish over the summer holiday.
"I plan on traveling to a Spanish speaking country in the near future and I want to know the language when I do," Hosseini said.
Lisa Kurczewski, a junior pharmacy major, will take sign language classes at Erie Community College this summer. Kurczewski recommends visiting an online language site or taking a class, especially for anyone wishing to brush up on a language or to complete a requirement.
2. Hi-yah! Taking up Tae Kwon Do
After finals week, many students may find themselves displacing an abundance of aggression and energy.
Sean Lee, a freshman pharmacy major and vice president of UB Tae Kwon Do club, plans to prepare for next year's Tae Kwon Do tournament promotion test.
"I'm also continuously learning and practicing for my black belt test in August," Lee said.
Lee recommends students look into the UB Tae Kwon Do club, or into centers in their hometowns, which often have special deals for new members looking to try out the sport.
1. When you've had enough macaroni and cheese to last a lifetime: become a capable chef
A long year of eating campus and dorm food is enough to provoke many students to step in the kitchen and throw on an apron. Frank Acheampong, a sophomore pharmacy major, will be looking to his dad for some basic and expert cooking skills.
"Spanish, African, and Jamaican foods are on the top of my list for learning how to make this summer," Acheampong said. "I'm sick of all the bland food I've been eating this semester."
