No student comes to university for only a degree. In order to ensure a well-rounded university experience, below is a list of 20 things to do before graduating and leaving Stellenbosch.
1) Find the waterfall at Jonkershoek
Views from one of the Jonkershoek waterfalls. PHOTO: Zoë Human
While hiking isn’t for everyone, the Jonkershoek waterfall might make you think twice.
2) Attend a house dance
An annual highlight for many students is their residence’s or PSO’s house dance.
3) Swim in the Coetzenburg Dam
With the closest freely available body of water at Strand, the Coetzenburg Dam acts as the Stellenbosch swimming pool, particularly in the hot summer months.
4) Go to Koeël Bay
A group of sunbathing students at Koeël Bay with the scenic Whale Coast in the background. PHOTO: Zoë Human
The Whale Coast offers a beautiful and picturesque drive starting in Gordon’s Bay. Along the way stop at one of the scarcely populated beaches for sundowners.
5) Attend a Street Soirée
This Drostdy Street event offers attendees wine tastings, live music and many food stalls to enjoy.
For more info visit: https://www.facebook.com/STBStreetSoirees/
6) Watch SU Acapella at the Endler
Megan Koster, 2018 Aristea Acapella leader, during their prelim performance. Photo: Zoë Human
A must on any Stellenbosch local’s calendar is the SU Acapella event. Different residences and PSO groups sing accompanied by nothing but their voices.
7) Go wine tasting
Visiting some Stellenbosch vineyards is an essential experience for any Stellenbosch student. Even if you do not drink, the picturesque views on many of the farms in the area will make it worth your while.
Suggestions:
- Spier
- Peter Falke
- J.C. Le Roux
- Eikendal
8) Watch a movie at Pulp Cinema
After Ster-Kinekor in Eikestad Mall closed down, Pulp Cinema, with the exception of the occasional Galileo Open Air Cinema events, is Stellenbosch’s only cinema. The cinema, situated in the Neelsie, screens 6 or more movies weekly. Sign ups for Pulp can be done on MySun for an annual fee of R450.
9) Watch the Stellenbosch University Choir’s free lunchtime concert
Named as the best choir in the world by Interkultur for five years in a row, the Stellenbosch University Choir has achieved international success. One stands in lines stretching from the Endler to the Bosman Street circle in order to experience this top rated choir.
For performance dates and additional information visit: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/entities/choir/events
10) Watch a game of Varsity Cup rugby
For a number of students, the Varsity Cup rugby games are less about the sport and more about socialising. The Maties rugby team is one of the best teams in the country and are always a feast for the eyes. If you are not into rugby, the electrifying atmosphere at the stadium will sway your decision.
11) Complete a ‘Golden Week’
A packed club on a night out at Tin Roof.
Photo: Zoë Human
It is well known that Stellenbosch’s student night is on a Wednesday but here is a challenge for the braver party animals out there. ‘Golden Week’ refers to a student going out to a club and/or bar for 7 consecutive days. Due to studies most students who do attempt a ‘Golden Week’ do so during Silly Season (Term 3). Some students go even further by attempting a ‘Golden Month’.
12) Julian’s Wednesday Nacho’s special
Julian’s, a local hangout spot for students in Andringa street, has several specials throughout the week but the most popular of them all is the R55,95 Nacho’s for two special on a Wednesday.
13) Scream “bekfluitjie” (translated: Harmonica) outside Wilgenhof men’s residence
Heather Borrill Bruce’s Facebook comment. Photo: Facebook
Heather Borrill Bruce reflects on her experience of number 13 in 1976. While the punishments for screaming “bekfluitjie” have since changed, it is better to be safe than sorry when attempting number 13.
Link to post: https://www.facebook.com/shitmateyssay/posts/its-tradition-to-shout-bekfluitjie-whilst-walking-past-wilgenhof/210087405846453/
14) Bohemia’s Bingo Night
“Don’t let your Monday f*ck up your Sunday” or so is the motto of Bohemia’s Sunday night bingo events.
15) Attend one of the many Halloween parties around 31 Octobe
While the festivities often do not actually take place on 31 October due to the end of year examinations, it does not stop clubs such as Aandklas and the Mystic Boer from going all out on parties a couple of nights before exams commence.
16) Watch a show at Woordfees
Originating at Stellenbosch University, Woordfees has grown tremendously since its start in 2000. The event takes place annually over the first 10 days in March.
For more information visit: https://woordfees.co.za/
17) Go walk the dogs through the winelands at Animal Welfare Stellenbosch
All teeth and tongues. Preparing the dogs at Animal Welfare Stellenbosch for their walk. Photo: Zoë Human
For most students, especially those staying in university residences, owning a pet is not an option. So when the longing for a four-legged friend begins, head down to Animal Welfare where you can walk dogs through the scenic Stellenbosch surroundings.
18) Visit the Botanical Garden
Located in the centre of Stellenbosch, the Botanical Garden is not only a must see for Stellenbosch students but also for tourists visiting the town. Entrance is free when presenting a Stellenbosch University student card at the door.
19) Watch one of the free performances at the Adam Small Theatre
Five Lesbians Eating A Quiche, one of last years free Honours performances heading to the Grahamstown Festival in 2019.
Photo: Zoë Human
The Stellenbosch University’s Drama Department puts on productions throughout the year. While certain shows have an entrance fee, most of these shows are free to the public.
20) Pass your exams.
Last but definitely not least: If you complete nothing else on this list during your university experience, at least try and complete this.