Rolling up to High Street for the first time after a long summer away from Oxford, I immediately was overcome by excitement and “oh crap, here we go again.” The three month break away from the magical worldhere at Miami University is typically much needed after the strenuous academic year we all put in, but returning feels a lot like Christmas morning. Here are the reasons we love returning back.
1. Reuniting with the homies
One of the coolest parts about going to Miami is that there are a ton of out-of-state students, which I think makes us more cultured, not to mention provides us with fun places to visit (although the downside of this is being hundreds of miles away from your college besties for those long summer months). Having said this, it makes the reunion in Oxford even more special. Although your high school friends are amazing lifelong friendships that you will have forever, nothing will ever compare to the friends at school who will always be there for you, whether it's an all-nighter at King or staying until close at CJ’s.
2. Parties
As great as it was to drink in the basement of your parents' house all summer with your high school pals, there is nothing like that house full of boys and girls mingling with Solo cups full of cheap alcohol and Shasta. Whether it’s a four-way, day party, or your basic Friday night party, we know you missed your favorite Greek boys! Side note: We do not miss disgusting bathrooms.
3. Independence
At last! No more badgering from your parents to clean your room or hearing “No, you can’t get sushi with the girls, we have a family dinner tonight.” Although we do love our parents, it can get exhausting keeping up with all of their requests. Freedom tastes so sweet in Oxford. If you want to spend all day Sunday in pajamas, bingeing on Netflix episodes and only getting up to answer the door for the Skipper’s delivery man, go for it. Mom doesn’t need to know!
4. Routine
We all need a little structure in our lives. The lazy days of summer are always much needed after a school year of hard work, but getting back into the routine of school is definitely refreshing. Knowing you have to be up and at ‘em Monday morning for class is good practice for the real world when we all have to get out of bed and be a real person (aka, head to work).
5. Beat the Clock/Broken Clock
Saturdays are a pretty big deal here in Oxford. All summer you have longed for the alarming, but always satisfying, taste of a Trash Can. Saturdays at Brick Street are a gift from above with awesome drink specials and even better company. Thankfully, after Beat The Clock the fun doesn’t have to end. Broken Clock at New Bar is just as fun because Red Skins are basically the nectar of the Gods. Oh, and good luck on making it out for the rest of the night. You’re not invincible (hate to break it to ya).
6. '90s Night
Tuesdays are a favorite for Miami students for one reason: '90s Night. Your Tuesday nights this summer were probably spent getting fro-yo with your friends and unfortunately not dancing with your pals to throwback boy-band music. Let’s fix that ASAP this Tuesday night at Brick Street!
7. Your Favorite Drink
Whether it’s a Mind Probe from 45 East, a Red Skin at New Bar, or a Mongolian from CJ’s, everyone has their favorite. And as much as you love drinking back in your hometown, it tastes so much better in Oxford!
8. Pre-Going-Out Dinner
There is nothing quite like starting your night out with a delicious meal and drinks before you head over to your first party of the night. Sushi Nara is an all time favorite for birthdays and Mom or Dads weekends, but remember to get your reservation in because space fills up waaaay to quick! Not into long waits and raw fish? No biggy, there’s a ton of other places to carb up before going out.
9. Late-Night Eats
If you don’t eat something yummy after a night out in Oxford, you’re doing it wrong. Surely you missed walking home after an evening of partying while enjoying a piping hot bagel from Bagel & Deli or a greasy slice of heaven from Bruno’s. Or maybe your favorite is a sandwich from Jimmy John’s or ice cream from UDF. Whatever your favorite post-partying snack is, I know you’ll basically freak out the first time it touches your lips.
10. Our Beautiful Campus
Best of all, your return to Oxford will consist of walks to and from class, allowing you to soak in the stunning red brick buildings and colorful fall leaves upon the trees. How lucky are we to live on a campus that’s unbelievably picturesque during all four seasons? The sight of the Upham Arch and Pulley Bell Tower will never get old, no matter what year you are.
So get excited, everyone! Oxford welcomes you with open arms!
