As the spring term comes to a close, the books disappear and the party begins. In the real world, people celebrate with champagne. But champagne is expensive and the hangover's a killer, so in college. we toast with shots. This year, spice up the José Cuervo a bit and go crazier than the Kamikaze. So open up your cabinet, and see what you can do with those leftover handles before the year ends.

WITH TEQUILA:

Tequila Popper

A perennial Acapulco favorite.

3/4 oz tequila

Sprite

A napkin

Pour the tequila into a tall shot glass. Add Sprite to the shot, filling the glass about two centimeters from the top. Put the napkin over the glass and bang it on the table. Remove the napkin and take the shot. No salt needed.

WITH RUM AND BEER:

Flaming Dr. Pepper

Somewhere between a Car Bomb and a flambéed dessert. No caffeine necessary.

3/4 oz amaretto

1/4 oz 151 proof rum

Beer

Put the amaretto and rum into a shot glass. Also prepare a glass of beer. Bring a flame to the shot glass and watch as the shot ignites. Blow out the flame, drop the shot glass into the beer, and chug.

WITH VODKA:

Wintry Mix

A hot one. Perhaps not a summer special, but delicious nonetheless.

1/2 oz vodka

Hot chocolate

Whipped cream

Fill the shot glass halfway with hot chocolate and then pour the vodka over it. Top with a dollop of whipped cream. More of a savory kind of shot for the weak drinker.