Fall Semester Bucket List

Hawkeye Highlights from an Honors student

By Blanche Nery

If your free time has been filled with endless doom-scrolling or long hours in your room, honors students have the perfect recommendations to help make the most of the fall season. From social events to academic opportunities, this fall semester bucket list highlights the activities honors students love most on campus.

Iowa City Farmers Market 

For students searching for a refreshing break from campus life, look no further than the Iowa City Farmers Market. The Honors Program typically organizes an excursion the first Saturday of the semester. Consider inviting friends or fellow club members. Saturday morning outings to the market became a favorite activity for Women in Business (WIB) last fall. Surrounded by fresh pastries, local coffee, and vibrant vendor booths, members enjoyed the chance to explore downtown while building real connections.

Sophia Connolly, a third-year WIB member, said the farmers’ market quickly became one of her go-to events of the semester.

“I loved getting coffee, connecting with everyone, and exploring all the different booths together,” she shared.

The relaxed morning gave her a chance to unwind and make new friendships outside of regular meetings. Returning from the event, she felt energized, welcomed, and even more excited to stay involved.

“It reminded me how fun it is to build friendships outside of the classroom. I’d definitely encourage others to go!” says Connolly.

This outing is a simple and fun way to get plugged into the Iowa City community,while enjoying one of Iowa City’s best local traditions.

Attend the Experiential Learning Presentation “Hear from a Peer” 

Students eager to gain real-world experience can find invaluable opportunities through honors experiential learning events—a standout resource on campus. Even for those who have not previously attended many honors activities, these sessions provide an inviting and accessible introduction to the wide range of experiences the Honors Program promotes for credit towards graduation with University Honors.

Emily Collins, a finance and management double-major, shared that attending the experiential learning presentation completely changed her perspective on what’s possible.

“I didn’t realize how many different programs existed for every major. It was such a chill space to ask questions and understand the opportunities available.”

From internships and research to creative projects and community engagement, these events connect students with teams who are ready to help them take the next step. The atmosphere is informal, encouraging students to explore and find the best fit for their goals, even if they don’t have it all figured out yet.

Whether you’re just starting your honors journey or gearing up for big post-grad plans, experiential learning presentations, known as Hear from a Peer, offer students a chance to explore their interests and unlock new paths forward. A single conversation could spark the next big opportunity.

Another great experiential learning event to put on your calendar: the Fall Undergraduate Research Festival!

Dance Gala 

Each fall, the University of Iowa Dance Gala brings bold artistry and powerful performances to the stage. Maddie Greenberg, an honors student and dancer featured in the 2025 show, said the Dance Gala is one of the most exciting ways to experience the campus arts community.

For Greenberg, who majors in business and dance, months of hard work led up to opening night, and seeing fellow students in the crowd made every rehearsal worth it.

“We put so much passion and dedication into this show,” Greenberg shared. “It means the world when people come out to support us. The energy from the audience is what makes the performance come alive.”

Whether you’re a regular arts fan or just looking for a memorable night with friends, Dance Gala is a can’t-miss event that shows off some of the best talent and imagination on campus.

Grab a ticket, cheer on fellow Hawkeyes like Greenberg, and be part of one of Iowa’s most iconic fall traditions.

Attend Campus Activities Board Events 

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) once again brought students together for an unforgettable night of fun, laughter, and a little friendly competition at their recent Bingo Night. The event gave students a chance to unwind, connect with friends, and meet new people who share the same love for social events on campus. 

“I had a blast, it allowed students to have fun with friends and like-minded people who want to have a good time,” said attendee Anne Lagowski.

For Lagowski, who majors in speech and hearing science, Bingo Night was a reminder of how much campus events can enhance the college 

experience. 

“I know CAB also hosts events like Trivia Nights and Movie Nights that I haven’t yet explored,” she said. “After this, I’m definitely planning to go to more.” 

Whether you’re in it to win or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening, CAB’s events are a great way to connect, relax, and make the most of campus life.

Football Games & Service Events 

For health promotion major Ellie Johnsen, there’s no better way to feel connected to the Hawkeye community than by attending football games. The excitement in Kinnick Stadium, the roar of the crowd, and the sea of black and gold create an atmosphere that unites students beyond the classroom.

“Football games are a great way to feel connected to your Hawkeye community and see your friends in a non-academic setting,” Johnsen shared. 

Game days bring students together to celebrate school pride, take a break from studies, and make lasting memories surrounded by fellow Hawkeyes.

But Johnsen’s fall season isn’t just about cheering from the stands, it’s also about giving back. Through her sorority, she participates in philanthropic events that make a real difference in the community. 

Activities like period packing events serve as a reminder of how fortunate many students are, while also emphasizing the importance of helping others.

By balancing fun and philanthropy, Johnsen embodies what it means to be a Hawkeye: spirited, compassionate, and community-driven. Whether she’s cheering on the team or lending a helping hand, Johnsen’s involvement reflects the best parts of campus life at Iowa.

Whether you’re exploring Iowa City for the first time or re-discovering it as a college student, these student-recommended activities capture part of what makes campus life so meaningful. From connecting over coffee at the farmers market to cheering in Kinnick Stadium, each experience offers a chance to build community, discover new passions, and create lasting memories. 

The fall semester is the perfect time to get involved, try something new, and make the most of everything the University of Iowa has to offer, just as these honors students have shown.