Funny Things About Being a High School Senior
High School Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to Do
High School is one of the most memorable and challenging phases we would go through in our lives. It is a rite of passage from being a child to becoming a young adult. With more responsibilities and new experiences to face, you should definitely start your High School bucket list now if you haven't started one yet!
Fear not, young grasshopper! To make the most out of this phase, we have selected the best 50 things to do in High School.
High School Bucket List of Fun Things to Do from Freshman to Senior Year
1. Apply For a Job
From lawn mowing to dog walking to being a barista or a tutor, there is never a shortage of fun jobs to do! Just look around your neighborhood or any local shops to see if they have part-time work for high school students. You can also look online for jobs such as tutoring, blog writing, or graphic designing, to name a few. For extra tips read How to Get Your First Job (for Teens)
2. Ask Your Crush Out on a Date
This can be a nerve-wracking thing to do, but remember that we only get to be young once, so go ahead and take that chance! If everything goes well, it will be a perfect opportunity for you and your crush to get to know each other better.
It doesn't have to be an overly romantic date—just keep everything casual and friendly, and don't forget to have an open mind. Most importantly, be yourself!
You can use Science of People's How to Ask Someone Out: 8 Steps For A Yes Every Time article for help and then check out our Date Night Bucket List: 75 Cute Ideas for a Perfectly Fun Evening
3. Attend a School Dance
Attending a school dance is one of the highlights that you can (and should) experience in high school. From homecoming to prom, there are plenty of opportunities to join. Don't hold back on your attire either! This is also a chance to invite that person to come with you to that dance—maybe even your crush.
Whether you join that school dance with your special someone or with friends, you'll be making a lot of lifelong memories to remember in the years to come.
Looking for a school dance dress? I LOVE the ones at Revolve, and Windsor has some really cute ones too!
4. Be Part of a Theater Production (Onstage or Backstage)
Bring out your acting skills and join a theater play. This can either be in your school or a local theater that you can get into. If you prefer working behind the scenes, you can assist the actors in the theater play, making props, adjusting the lighting, and so much more.
Aside from having fun, you will also improve your self-confidence and also build trust and cooperation with other people. You also get to share your creative skills as well!
5. Conduct a Harmless Prank
Who says we can only pull pranks on April Fools? Pranks are a fun way to bring something unexpected into our daily lives, especially when it's witty and harmless. You can either pull a prank in your house, with your neighbors or friends, even at school!
Parade.com has a list of harmless pranks to help you give some clever ideas. You can also add your own spin to cliche pranks to catch them off guard. But remember – keep it safe and fun!
6. Learn Another Language
Your school might be conducting foreign languages classes, so this is a great way to start your language learning journey! If you want more self-paced learning, apps like Duolingo are easily accessible on our mobile phones (that's what I've been using to learn Spanish). As our world becomes more interconnected, it's always good to learn another language or two.
Not only does it help you better understand their culture more, but speaking to someone in their own language creates a more personal touch!
7. Register to Vote When You Turn 18
They say that the youth are the future of our nation. One of the things you can do to impact your country's future is becoming a registered voter. You will be empowered to have a chance to vote for those who you think will make a difference.
The usa.gov website will give you everything you need to know in order to register.
8. Support a Cause
When looking for a cause to support, make sure that they resonate with your values. You can check out your local neighborhood for any charities or groups that fall in this category.
Some of the ways we can show our support are either by making a donation, sharing the cause on social media, or joining events like run-for-a-cause. By doing these things one step at a time, we can make our world a little bit better.
9. Aim For a Semester of Straight As
This can be a daunting task but not impossible to achieve, as long as you put in the right amount of work and effort. If you are struggling with your grades, you can host or join group studies with your peers!
Don't be disheartened if you are not able to get an A in a semester. What's important is having the drive to go forward. As a certain sports manga once said, "He who would climb a ladder must begin at the bottom."
10. Apply For an Internship
Some companies (like Google) offer internship programs for high school students like you. This is a great way to be exposed and learn about working in a corporate setting, not to mention the skills that you will be taking with you. It will look good on your resume!
Unlike part-time jobs, internships can either be paid or not but the things that you will learn from there will benefit you in the long run.
11. Attend a Musical
Musicals and Broadway plays offer something that movies and videos don't: the beauty of a live experience. From the awe-inspiring performance of the actors to the stage production, you will surely not be disappointed!
Whether it's a big musical show or a small local play, being there, up close and personal is a magical experience you should experience at least once!
12. Be in The Talent Show
Amaze everyone with your unique talent by joining the school's talent show! It can be anything: playing an instrument like the guitar, doing a magic trick, or even singing. If you have more than one talent, you can mix it up to create something more unique! If you don't know what to perform, then here's 50 talent show ideas.
Just remember to enjoy and have fun! It may be a competition, but you can also think of it as people coming together to show and inspire the audience with their own different talents.
13. Bring a Shareable Treat to Class
If you know your way around the kitchen, you can impress your class by making and bringing them a delicious treat! Not only will this make their bellies happy, but you'll also bond the whole class together. Just don't forget to check with your teacher first before bringing one. Or you can bring it as an after-class treat instead!
Do your cooking skills need more work? Don't worry! Here are some easy-to-make treats that will help you get started:
- 32 Easy Desserts To Make at Home
- 82 Stupid-Easy Desserts That Only Look Impossible
14. Cook a Special Dinner For Your Family
What better way to bond with your family than cooking a special dinner and eating with them? This can also be a perfect learning and bonding experience with your parents, especially if you haven't tried cooking before.
There are a lot of easy-to-prepare dinner meals that even a novice cook can choose from! Like these ones:
- 16 Quick And Easy Dinners Your Whole Family Will Love
- 75 Easy, Delicious Family Dinner Ideas For Any Day of the Week
- 65 Best Family Meals That Make Dinnertime Fun Again
15. Do Something For The Environment
Being a student is demanding, and it can sometimes be hard to carve out time to be environmentally conscious. However, you don't have to change your entire lifestyle to make an impact!
Recycling your papers, saving water and electricity, and using eco-friendly bags are some things you can do to help the environment. You can also participate in tree-planting activities in your local community. A small change can grow to something big when brought together.
Don't think you can't make a change! Here's dozens of ideas how you can:
- 19 Ways You Can Protect the Environment as a Student (+ An Ecologist's Advice)
- 10 THINGS TO DO TO SAVE OUR PLANET EARTH AS A STUDENT
- Simple Ways a Student Like You Can Save the Environment
16. Donate Blood
You can be a hero to someone without being there in person. One of the things you can do is by donating some of your blood. Some of the benefits of donating blood include reduced stress and improved overall well-being. It can give you some insight into your overall health.
If you plan to donate blood regularly, you need to keep yourself fit and healthy. Most states also require teens to be at least 17 years before they can donate blood.
For a little inspiration you can read about my experience of Giving Blood and also get more information for teen donors on the Red Cross website.
17. Experience Another Culture
Culture and tradition are something that all humans share. No matter where we come from, we always bring our culture with us. People coming from different cultures may be among your friends or neighbors.
You can go to a museum, read a book, perhaps try a new cuisine in your area or read these 25 ways to experience different cultures from home! Remember to keep an open mind and take the time to learn about them. You'll be astonished by the diversity of people around you!
18. Create and Complete Your Teen Bucket List
Your already working on your High School Bucket List, so why not add a teen bucket list to that. Don't know where to start? We've got you cover with Bucket List Journey's Teen Bucket List: 85 Fun Things Every Teenager Should Do.
This teenager bucket list will give you the funnest things for teens to do—friend bonding activities and cool ideas for the most memorable experiences.
19. Explore Your Career Options
This ties in with our previous entries regarding jobs and internships. Having experience working a job would give you a clearer idea of what career path to pursue while still in high school.
Still can't decide? Try doing different things as well, especially the ones that you haven't tried before. Learn and discover what your skills and interests might be. You might uncover a talent for something that you never knew you had in you!
20. Find or Be a Mentor
Finding a good mentor isn't easy, but the effort in doing so is well worth it. This can be someone you look up to and has gone down a similar path that you are taking.
Mentors are there to guide you by sharing their knowledge and wisdom. But don't let that stop you from making your own decisions and actions! Not only will you encounter something new, but your mentor might learn something from it as well!
21. Find Your Passion
Finding your passion can be difficult and can sometimes be a life-long purpose. You have to dig deep and ask yourself some questions, like "When was the last time you got absorbed in something that time passed by quickly?" and "What would I do for free?".
If you need more help, the Bucket List Journey articles might help:
- 365 Deep & Thought Provoking Questions to Ask Yourself (& Others)
- 100+ Quotes About Following Your Dreams that will Speak to Your Heart
22. Get a Car
Once you have your driver's license, it's time to get your first car! Affordable options are available for high school students like you, especially with used cars. You need to check with a local car dealership for prices, but most of the time can be below $10,000. Ask if you can take it for a test drive and any repairs that it might require.
Try speaking with your parents as well about getting a car. Who knows, they might surprise you with a car of your own!
23. Get Your Diploma
This should be one of your main goals during your high school life, and especially during senior year. Getting your diploma will serve you in the long run, especially if you are planning to go to college or applying for a job.
Aside from the diploma, the things that you will be learning at school are going to be a huge plus. Not just the educational side, but also things like teamwork, meeting new people, managing responsibilities, and so much more.
24. Give Your Favorite Teacher(s) Something For Teacher Appreciation Week
Tell your favorite instructor how they've influenced you by writing a letter, having a little chat after class, or giving a small gift. Once you enter university, time tends to fly by, so make sure to express how much their hard work and devotion meant to you! They'll be grateful for the time you put in.
Also, don't be scared to inquire about keeping in touch! Great teachers are a priceless resource, especially once you graduate from high school.
If your struggling to know what to get them, Shutterfly and Delta Marketing have a bunch of ideas!
25. Go on a College Visit
If you're planning to go to college or already have one in mind, consider doing a college visit. Since you'll be spending the next few years with them, it's better to get to know the lay of the land!
Talk with professors and other students, check out clubs you might be interested in, and other perks the college has to offer. This will help you decide if that college is the right fit for you and your goals.
26. Go to a Football Game
Games like football bring people together, so it's one way to spend more time with your family or friends! Maybe one of them is playing on one of the teams, so you'll also show your support that way.
Even if you are not a fan of football, you should try to watch a game at least once, at least just for the experience. When the game gets intense, you might be cheering along with the crowd yourself!
27. Go to School in Pajamas
It's okay to get crazy sometimes and make funny memories (not just fun ones!). Get out of your comfort zone and go to school in your (decent) pajamas! For added effect, try to retain your bed hair as well. You might get eyes staring at you, but who cares, right?
Aside from laughing at their reaction, you will also get more comfortable with being yourself and not worrying about what others might think (which is a great thing to do in high school!). A little harmless fun, for sure will not hurt anyone.
Don't have a comfy and cute pair of PJ's? Try Pretty Garden's cheetah print pajama set or the dreamy cloud set that can be monogrammed.
28. Go to Sleep on Time
It is challenging to get a good night's sleep, let alone sleeping on time, with the things happening in your high school life. It can be your exams, getting excited on prom night, or catching up on your favorite show.
Preparing to and sleeping on time is more beneficial to you than you might think. It helps you manage your responsibilities better by doing things on time, and also keeps your overall well-being healthy by being rested well.
29. Have a Water Balloon Fight
Get wet and wild with your friends or family by hosting a water balloon fight in the summer! This crazy activity doesn't require a lot of things, just some water and balloons.
30. Help at a Fundraiser
Check out your local neighborhood for any fundraisers, especially charities or schools. There are lots of different ways to help them in their fundraising campaign. Some of these include spreading the word on social media or asking your friends if they can lend a hand.
You can also talk to the charity/school and ask if you can host or organize a fundraiser for them like fun runs, a fundraising concert, or even selling merchandise like t-shirts!
If you want to start your own fundraiser, check out these ideas:
- 17 Fundraising Ideas for Teens [ Updated 2021]
- 30 Fundraisers for High School Students
31. Help Someone Find Their Way to Class
Spread a little positivity and help those new students in getting to their class. Not only will you make their day, but it will also be an opportunity to create new friends! Just remember to respect their boundaries and approach them in a friendly manner.
You can also show them the other school facilities you might run into along the way, such as the school gym, cafeteria, or even the Principal's office. This can also be a good exercise, not just physically but also socially.
32. Host a Sleepover
Pajama parties are an enjoyable event as well as a rite of passage for teenagers. Sleepovers open up opportunities to develop more memories with your friends: Whether for summer fun, a birthday party, or maybe just something to do during your holiday vacation.
Essential things such as extra pillows or sleeping bags, as well as the food and drinks, are a must-have. The evening's momentum is also set by having a fun activity or game.
33. Join a School Club
It is beneficial to become active in your school, and joining several groups is a great way to do so. Not only will you make new friends, but you will also learn more about your school and what occurs outside of the classroom.
Try something new. Get outside of your comfort zone. Whether you're interested in improv or sports, there's a club for you! You can also try starting your own club as well.
34. Jump into a Pool Fully Clothed
I know some of you might think this is total nuts. Still, fun is fun. Plus, a little bit of craziness won't hurt. Whether it is a dare or just your adrenaline kicking in, jumping into a swimming pool fully clothed sounds like something worth adding to your things to do in high school.
You can also make this crazier if you jump into a swimming pool while wearing formal attire! Just don't forget to bring extra clothes with you and you're good to go.
35. Keep in Touch With People That Leave For College Before You
Your older pals leaving for college is one of the most significant changes you'll encounter during high school. Fortunately, there are more means to stay in touch than ever before.
Keeping in touch is not impossible, thanks to technology and social media platforms like Facebook. Your college friends will need a fun distraction from time to time, so do not hesitate to send them a message or call them once in a while!
36. Get Your Driver's License
Depending on what state you are in, you can get your driver's license by age 16. It can be a lengthy process as you still need to get permits and pass driving tests. But if you can get through it all, it is well worth it!
Aside from being a requirement to drive, it also serves as a valid ID accessible to teens. Once you have that license, maybe it's time to start looking for your first car!
37. Make a Scrapbook for Every Year of High School
One of the things you can do to save those memorable high school experiences is by scrapbooking. It can be a photo, a ticket to your first concert, anything! You also don't have to adhere to the norm. After all, it's your own scrapbook.
For a more personal touch, why not create your own scrapbook from scratch! There are tons of great DIY videos on Youtube to help you get started in making your own scrapbook. And here's more help:
- 17 Great Scrapbook Ideas and Albums to Preserve Your Family Memories
- Scrapbook Ideas for Beginners: 25 Inspiring Layouts
- 35 Super Unique Scrapbook Ideas | 2020 Updated
- Scrapbook album high school
38. Participate in a Science Fair
Science may sound like something that not every student likes, but participating in a science fair is fun and engaging! You'll have the opportunity to experience and show first-hand how things work. Some people also add their own approaches to tackling an existing topic. You might even get scouted for your project idea!
Even if you don't have a revolutionary project that can change the world, you can still get involved with these awesome science projects!
39. Be a Part of Student Government
Having an opportunity to help and at the same time grow as a person is not a bad idea, right? And what better way to explore that than being elected as part of the student government.
Not only can you speak up for your peers, but you will also have the opportunity to learn from others and build skills that will benefit you in the future. It also puts you in a position to make the change that you want to see.
40. Pull an All-nighter
This would probably be one of the things you'll do at some point before the end of senior year. Sometimes it can't be avoided, but here are some things that you can do to survive one:
- Have some light snacks ready.
- Have a cup of coffee (or any caffeine drink).
- Put away any sleepy distractions (like books).
- Read: How To Pull a Successful All-Nighter
Hopefully, that helped you get through the night! After that, you can make up for it by sleeping all day.
41. Read More (For Leisure)
Take a break from your gadgets or the TV and relax with a good book in your hands. Nothing beats the feeling of getting lost in the story you are reading! You can borrow books from the local library, your friends or family, or even buy yourself one.
Aside from books, you can also read online with apps like Kindle or even listen to audiobooks on Spotify. Whether it's fictional or not, with so many genres to choose from, there is one you will surely love!
If you are a lover of the oldies then see our Classic Books Bucket List: 25 of the Best Must-Read Novels. Or for all you bucket list lovers, here's 5 Bucket List Books to Read in Your Lifetime—Including Mine!
42. Start a Savings Account
It is never too early to save up! Instead of the traditional piggy bank, why not open a savings account? Most banks have options for teens with varying interest rates, so you might have to do a bit of research to find one that suits you.
It gives a certain feel of independence since you have your own savings account. You'll also be more eager to save up for the things that you want to buy.
43. Sleep All Day
Who doesn't like to sleep all day, especially after a long tiring week of activities?
Leave all the worries behind, school stuff, anything. It's just you and your bed for now. Think about your soft pillows, your comfy bed and the feeling of ease inside your own room. Sometimes a short break from the world is all you need to make that fresh start you've been dreaming of.
Just a reminder, make sure you don't do this often!
44. Sleep Under The Stars
Camping out and sleeping outdoors with family or friends, either in the mountains or your own backyard, is a great bonding experience. You will also feel more connected with nature this way!
If you want to take "sleeping under the stars" literally, you can plan a camping trip to some of the best stargazing places here in the US (dubbed Dark Sky places by enthusiasts). You'll be starstruck with the beauty of the star-filled night sky!
45. Speak Your Mind
I know most of us are afraid of speaking up for fear of being confronted or laughed at. I've been there myself! However, bottling something inside will affect you negatively in more ways than you can imagine, like asking what-ifs or should-haves.
One of the best ways to start speaking up your mind is by confiding with people that you trust and are comfortable with. Maybe your best friend, your parents/family. Aside from being there to listen, they might offer you some nuggets of wisdom with your problem or idea.
46. Be a Part of a Band
If you are into music, you've probably thought of joining or are already in a band. Whether jamming with each other or playing live at concerts, being in a band lets you connect with other people through your music while also having fun in the process.
You and your bandmates can also learn, grow, and influence each other musically. Being part of a team also amplifies that feeling of togetherness and involvement with each other.
47. Start a Blog or a YouTube Channel
Go ahead and start your blogging journey with platforms such as WordPress and Blogger, as they are customizable and do not require that much programming knowledge. It can be a great way to practice your writing skills while also reaching out to other people with your content.
Starting a Youtube channel is great if you want a closer connection with your audience, especially if you are vlogging. Don't worry about the views as well. So long as you are creating content that you love, others who share the same passion will naturally be drawn to you!
PS: If you decide to start a blog, then read my articles: Become a Blogger: How to Start a Successful Blog in 6 Easy Steps an d How to Make Money Blogging: 7 Ways to Monetize
48. Keep a Journal
You can say it is like keeping a diary but with more freedom. Something where you just throw in your thoughts and feelings as they come. It doesn't conform to any writing format as well, so let yourself loose! You can write or draw what you want.
Journaling lets you explore your innermost thoughts and feelings without worrying about being judged or seen by other people. It can also help you organize and understand those things better.
49. Stay Optimistic
Everyone is fighting their own battles, which is all the more reason to stay positive. Being optimistic doesn't mean ignoring the negative feelings or the bad things happening around us.
It is accepting those feelings and finding the good side in the bad. It is being hopeful for the future, like a rainbow showing up after a storm. It is about being grateful and thankful. The hardships and trials that we face are what make us stronger and appreciate life even more.
50. Take a Road Trip With Your Friends
Road trips are a must-do on many bucket lists because they combine travel with enjoyment and provide opportunities to create lasting memories. It feels refreshing getting away for a few hours and trying something new.
If you are going on a long road trip, make sure to bring essentials like water and some snacks you can easily prepare so that you don't have to stop every now and then (except when going for bathroom breaks).
For some fun on-the-road entertainment, buy our Printable Road Trip Bingo Cards. Also, get some motivation from the 75+ Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Long Drive.
51. Try a New Food
Can't think of anything to eat? Maybe now is an excellent opportunity to try something new. It would open you into a new world of flavors that you never knew existed before. You'll be expanding your food choices in the process as well.
It can be as simple as dipping fries on vanilla ice cream (I love this one!) or trying a new type of pasta or sushi. Your taste buds will thank you for that (hopefully!).
If your feeling really adventurous than pick an item from this list: Weird Food Bucket List: 60 Strange Foods From Around the World
52. Try a New Look
It can be equally exciting and scary getting out of your comfort zone, especially when it comes to your looks. However, you don't have to do a complete makeover or change your style to achieve a new look.
Experiment with little things like wearing a different color for your shirt, letting your hair loose, or just adding a ring or two. You'll never know what works for you unless you go ahead and try it.
53. Volunteer!
Helping others can be rewarding for some people, even if they are not expecting anything in return. Doing volunteer work in a cause that you support gives you that sense of purpose and accomplishment. It also makes you more aware of the issues people are dealing with in their daily lives.
An extra pair of hands is always welcome when it comes to volunteering regardless of what your skills might be. So what are you waiting for?
Don't know where to start? Visit VolunteerMatch who has opportunities in many major cities or check the United Way website.
53. See a Sunrise or Sunset
When was the last time you saw a sunrise or sunset? We usually just take these things for granted as we cruise about in our high school life.
In my experience, it gives me a sense of peace and appreciation for life. Take the time to pause for a moment, look for that perfect viewing spot, and watch as the sun rises or sets on the horizon. You'll be astonished at how beautiful it is!
54. Write a Letter To Your Future Self
This might look like a childish thing to do, but I can guarantee that it's not! Reading the letter written by your old self will remind you of the things that have changed since then. It can be your expectations of the future, your goals and your dreams, and if you are still aligned with those.
Need more convincing? You can check out: How (and Why) to Write a Letter to Your Future Self .
. . .
Hope that this bucket list will help you live your high school life to its fullest! Did you find yourself adding some (or all!) of these activities to your High School bucket list? Yes, it can be a mixture of fun and craziness with occasional storms here and there. Like a diamond in the rough, you'll be shaped by this journey and emerge sparkling in the end!
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More Bucket List Ideas
Teen Bucket List: 100+ Fun Things Every Teenager Should Do
College Bucket List: 75+ Fun Things to Do for the BEST Experience
Best Friend Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to Do With Your BFF
At Home Bucket List: 50 Fun Things to Do Without Leaving the House
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6 Comments
Source: https://bucketlistjourney.net/high-school-bucket-list/
Your outlook on life is amazing. You teach me something new every day.
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