9 Things To Try in 2023

Niner Nation, there is never a better time to try new things than now. Try that style. Cut your hair. Set up a new routine. You don’t know until you’ve tried, and those bangs will grow out eventually. Here are 9 things to get you started on your year of firsts in 2023.

1. See a 4DX Movie

I recently got to see a film in 4DX. Steps ahead of 3D, it gives an immersive viewer experience, including movement, smell, rain, wind, etc. My body is still reeling from the seat shaking but it was a fun experience nonetheless. Regal Stonecrest at Piper Glen currently shows 4DX movies. It’s about 30 minutes from campus, but I promise the experience will be worth it!

2. Invest in yourself and get a journal

If 2022 wasn’t the year you prioritized yourself, your mental health, or your creativity, then make 2023 that year! Grab a journal and use it to calm your mind, express yourself, and everything in between. Have an idea? Write it down. Need to get some emotions out? Your journal won’t judge you. Keep a gratitude list. Keep a list of all the things that make you smile in a day. Keep a list of the things keeping you up at night. Your journal can be an artistic outlet or just a thought-holder. Write, draw, paint, scribble, tear it up. Whatever the function, use your journal as a space just for YOU.

3. Spend a day in Uptown

The city of Charlotte has so many cool and interesting places. If you have some time on your hands, take the day with some friends (or yourself) and spend it in Uptown. Parking is a struggle to say the least, so take the Light Rail from the on-campus stop straight into the city. You can visit the Mint Museum, NASCAR Hall of Fame, or just get some good eats.

4. Make a vision board

This could be something as simple as a written list or a corkboard with printed pictures. Make it a fun night with friends by grabbing your favorite treats, magazines, scissors, glue, tape and anything else you might want to be creative with. When you’re done, share your dreams and goals with each other and find accountability partners. Whatever you choose, having written goals for yourself is an amazing opportunity for growth and reflection.

5. Meet a professor

Start this year and semester off well by going to a professor’s office hours. Ask questions about the semester or the professor themselves. This is a great way to build relationships with the people you’ll be spending a lot of time with, and helps the professor get to know you. Whether asking for help or just chatting, professors are an invaluable resource for your career both at Charlotte and beyond.

6. Visit Lake Norman

I haven’t yet had the pleasure of going out to Lake Norman, but it’s on my list to do this year. If you are as boat-less as I am, there are trails, food and drink, and plenty of other things to do. I plan on trying at least one of these when the weather warms up!

7. Pick up a hobby

If there is something you have always wanted to try once or learn, now is the time to try. Hobbies are a great way to relax and relieve stress. They can become a side hustle or just something you do in your spare time. Know that you don’t have to be good at something to enjoy it, so explore your options and find something that brings you joy!

8. Join a student organization on campus

New hobbies can be easier with friends and communities willing to share your hobby with you. UNC Charlotte has an insanely broad range of student orgs including: the Culinary Club, Archery Club, Pollinator Club, Women in Animation, and more! If you have any interest there are people willing and able to help. Find your community here. Can’t find what you’re looking for? You can create it! Learn more about starting your own student org here.

9. Try an Ace No. 3 Burger

Photo Credits: ACE No 3 Burger

This is my spot! I say this with zero exaggeration: his burger is life changing. You start by picking out the “base” of your burger and then adding toppings and extras to your heart’s content. My order? A double cheeseburger, add bacon, mustard, and a hard egg. With a side of fries and the house comeback sauce? I’m hungry just thinking about it. With three locations in Concord Mills, Myers Park, and Belmont Village, the time to try ACE is now.