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Making the most of the Charlottesville summer
During the summer when the sun shines most brightly on Grounds, most students are long gone for summer vacation. Here are the top 10 reasons to stay in Charlottesville during the summer:
Midsummers\nMidsummers is the party of the year you do not want to miss. In July, many students return to Grounds to unleash their Wahoo spirit and reconnect with friends they haven't seen for months. Staying in Charlottesville means you are in a prime position to enjoy the event.
Hiking\nThe Blue Ridge Mountains frame Grounds, but they are far from the only place for outdoor adventure. Sherando Lake, Humpback Rock, Shenandoah National Park and the James River are all nearby if you are ready to brave the elements and test your physical stamina.
Summer jobs\nThere are plenty of summer jobs available in Charlottesville, since many student employees take the summer off to go home. If you work during the summer, you may be able to secure a job for the school year with more flexible hours. A steady job is always great for your résumé and can be a good way to connect with the greater Charlottesville community.
Summer classes\nTaking classes during the summer gives you a head start for the school year, as you can accumulate credits while getting some of your course requirements out of the way. It is also less competitive to secure a spot in these classes since fewer students stay at school during the summer. Devoting more time to fewer classes leads to better grades, which is a great way to boost your GPA.
Leasing an apartment\nMany students find themselves in a pinch when they realize their off-Grounds apartment comes with a yearlong lease, leaving them with the option of wasting three months of rent money or frantically searching for someone to sublet their apartment while they are gone. Help a friend by subletting.
Make friends with athletes\nMost sports teams are required to stay on Grounds for part of the summer. If you decide to stick around, this time is a great opportunity to meet members of the football, swimming, rowing and soccer teams. If you're brave, take them hiking.
Concerts\nCharlottesville has a full lineup of notable artists coming to town this summer. The nTelos Wireless Pavilion, the Paramount Theater and the Jefferson Theater all have big-name artists on their rosters for June and July, including Lady Antebellum, Sheryl Crow, Death Cab for Cutie, Colbie Caillat and Dierks Bentley. Also be sure to catch free live music downtown at Fridays after Five.
Charlottesville City Market\nThe Charlottesville farmers' market is your number one source for fresh, delicious local produce from April to December. Open Saturdays from 7 a.m. to noon, the market features a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, fresh eggs, green vegetables, meats and summer fruits. Stop by for a taste of what Charlottesville has to offer.
Summer Programs at the AFC\nYou love the AFC during the school year, and you will love it even more during the summer months. Escape from the heat and workout indoors, or take one of the many drop-in classes offered. Other programs offered include certification courses, personal training, intramural sports and private instruction for swimming and racquet sports.
Contra dancing\nEnjoy this lively folk dance, set to live music, every first and third Friday at the Municipal Arts Center on 5th Street. All experience levels are welcome.
