Ah, it’s that magical time of year again! Here at The Cornell Daily Sun, we’re excited to unveil our highly anticipated “**161 List**” — a carefully curated compass for navigating your vibrant college journey. While you might be wondering about the latest Slope Day lineup or even what to snag from the grocery store, we’re here to shine a light on experiences that truly define what it means to be a **Cornellian**.
**Lifestyle** is the name of our game, and we’ve stepped in to guide you through a compelling “**buy or bye**” of campus activities. Whether they’re pivotal experiences or mere footnotes in your college saga, let’s dive into which this list highlights as *must-dos* and *what to skip*.
The **Must-Dos** for Every Proud Cornellian
- Make your way to Zeus at precisely 2:55 p.m. and embrace the hunt for a table (see activity number 3). Let’s be honest: you’ll undoubtedly feel flustered as you pace around searching for a seat, but that panic? It’s a rite of passage! Everyone else who snagged their table at 10 a.m. will watch with bemusement, and trust us, it’s part of the charm!
- Experience a chimes concert from the iconic clock tower and challenge yourself to guess the tunes (number 12). Sounds whimsical? It is! The clock tower has an unexplainable knack for selecting tunes that resonate with your soul. Catch the right concert, and you might just recognize a few, which could inspire you to climb the **161 steps** of McGraw Tower afterward.
- Brace yourself for the weather’s surprises. You might wake up one sunny morning, eager to flaunt your favorite shorts, only to realize you’ve underestimated the cold—especially in those icy academic buildings (number 15). You’ll go from sunny optimism to a shivering mess in a blink. Just roll with it; it’s part of the **Cornell experience!**
- Prepare for your first pre-exam struggle because bombing a prelim (number 26) is an inevitable rite of passage. Even the brightest students will bury their heads in their hands when grades are posted. Remember, you’re not alone—every Cornellian has been there!
- Learn the art of resourcefulness by living off the free food from campus events when your BRB stash runs dry (number 145). Who knows, you might forge connections and friendships with fellow foodies along the way!
- Embark on a delightful wine tour at Catharine Valley (number 40). For those involved in Greek Life or with pals in sororities and fraternities, this experience is a must. While both the spring and fall tours have their merits, I recommend the stunning fall for its *golden hues* over the valleys and pleasant weather.
**Not Worth the Hype**: What to Skip
- Let’s set the record straight: having intimate moments in the library stacks (number 1) is simply a bad idea. Seriously, consider what lurks in those corners late at night. Your dignity will thank you.
- What even is Hotelie prom? (number 29) My confusion might be blinding my judgment here, but if the image conjures a room full of awkward networking amidst formal wear, I urge you to steer clear!
- Avoid the walk of shame in front of your ex (number 49). Stay classy; your dignity deserves that much. Unless you’re feeling empowered, in which case, strut past as if you own the night!
- Respect the “No Winter Maintenance” signs on campus stairs (number 60). While life does get slippery, the hard, sharp stone stairs are not forgiving, and who really wants to break a bone when finals are looming?
- Skip the OurBus experience (number 112) if you can. Trust me, scrambling for alternative travel arrangements is a nightmare you don’t want to face, especially during peak break seasons. Last year, they even overbooked, leaving a fellow passenger stranded. Avoid this at all costs!
**I’ll Stand Up and Applaud**
- Braving the summer heat on campus (number 33) is commendable! Most flee as soon as finals end, but for those who stick around, you’ll reap unique opportunities and the privilege of sharing your summer tales with your peers.
- Meeting a legend like Bill Nye ’77 (number 134)? That’s a life event that can turn your world upside down in the best way possible. Making a connection with such an icon is a story worth sharing.
- Secret missions! If you ever get the chance to explore the underground tunnels between Olin and Uris (number 64), **do it**! Rumor has it that these corridors are steeped in mystery and adventure.
As you reflect on this list, remember: **Cornellians do peculiar things** from time to time, and embracing the quirky side of life enhances your college experience. So, whether you’re indulging in campus legends or forging your own path, know that you’re part of a community rich in history and colorful experiences. Take a look at the entirety of the list, determine which activities resonate with you, and go forth as an authentic Cornellian! After all, you’re *not* just walking through campus—you’re *walking in the footsteps* of extraordinary adventures that have shaped generations of Cornellians before you.
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