Kristen Merren, Contributing Writer
What would you do if it was your last month in your favorite place on Earth?
A new kind of energy is settling across campus for the class of 2026. While students stress about exams and deadlines, they know the time is counting down for them to experience everything Sewanee has to offer before they walk the stage and leave college life behind. It’s about reliving the happiest moments of your life one last time, surrounded by the people who have shaped you and your journey. In response, an unspoken collective bucket list has taken shape, created from a mix of answers gathered from the seniors themselves. It’s unofficial but widely understood: a collection of everything people want to do before they leave.
At the center of it all are the people. Seniors are leaning into time together; planning sleepovers with entire friend groups; showing up to every competition, performance, and event; and choosing to stay a little longer in places they used to pass through. Even the most ordinary hangouts feel more fun and intentional.
Then there are the small but meaningful traditions: one last trip to Sewanee Waffle House with friends; getting a “chicken and cheese” on sourdough from Stirling’s; and going to BOGO on a Wednesday night. The small rituals feel like they matter more now.
And then there’s the Domain itself. The trails and overlooks all become parts of students’ identity. Some are planning one last camping trip, while others are squeezing into cars and driving to Nashville or Chattanooga with friends for a weekend, hiking the P Trail, night swimming at Lake Cheston or watching the sunset at the Cross. Petting the goats has become a can’t-miss group activity as well. The walk across campus, the pause to take in a view, the familiar paths through the woods. They’re surrounded by friends, letting the moment last a little longer just because they can.
There’s an unmistakable enthusiasm to Senior Spring. Students are saying yes to everything, going out every night during Sparty Weekend, and attempting to visit every Greek house in a single night. They fill their calendars with plans not out of obligation but excitement. There’s a sense of leaning in, of making the most of the time that’s left. There’s a kind of excitement that makes even the simplest of things seem fun.
And then there are the understated, more personal moments, like telling your campus crush how you feel and thanking a special professor who had a lasting impact on you. Now it feels more important than ever to say the things you have been putting off. These aren’t the most glamorous items on the list, but they’re the ones that can matter most.
Across campus, you can feel and see it. Sunsets draw bigger crowds, and nights stretch a little longer. This bucket list isn’t about doing everything but making the most of the time that’s left.
Consider this your invitation to complete it and add your own moments along the way. Don’t miss out on the Sewanee experience, and slow down enough to actually be in it. Graduation isn’t only about what’s next beyond the gates. It’s about leaving and knowing you didn’t miss what was right in front of you. Sewanee will always be yours to keep.