Every Bobcat comes in as a freshman with their dream and their cardigan, just hoping to fit into the family. Some are here for a specific program, some are here to continue the "party school" legacy, and some were born here and couldn't imagine leaving behind such a beloved place. No matter why you came to the small town of Athens, Ohio, you have since undoubtedly become a part of something much larger: a community. Along with that comes a lot of love, pride and common ground. That being said, here are 10 terms that every OU student understands better than anyone.
1. Club Alden.
This has a somewhat negative nostalgia to it, reminding students of the sleepless nights throughout finals week when we truly were "all in this together," although we didn't really want to be. We've all been a part of this club, perched up in the library with our double shot of espresso that still isn't enough and an order of Wings Over on its way. They say someday we will miss those nights, though I'm not so sure.
2. Slice Night/Liquor Pitchers.
Oh, how the heavens have opened up to bless us with these events occurring on the same night every week. Athens treats its students with so much love by understanding both how broke we are and how much we need pizza on a Wednesday night. After all, some weeks you need to let loose on hump day to make it through the rest of it, and what better than a serious bargain to convince you to do so?
3. Green Beer Day.
Sure, Miami THINKS they have a cool St. Patrick's Day festivity going, but just like everything else, we do it better. After all, green is our color. So, while most go all out in true OU fashion with themed hats and necklaces, even the non-festive students throw on their favorite bobcat tee and go out for a brew.
4. Fest Season.
I know you were waiting for this one, and I couldn't go without mentioning it. This becomes like Christmas for our Bobcat family, making spring semester fly by as week-by-week we look forward to a Saturday of festing. Not only are we working toward eventually having a fest on every street in Athens, but we also have things like Santa Fest and the 2017 Pipe Burst's own Drought Fest. We truly go above and beyond when it comes to our favorite season.
5. Boil Alert.
Speaking of Drought Fest (the epitome of Athens' damaged water phenomenon), OU has made it a habit of having water problems. After spending some time in Athens you certainly get used to boiling your drinking water. And as every Bobcat knows, if you can't drink the water you might as well just drink beer.
6. 'Skin, C-Side, Pawps.
All of our old standbys become so near and dear to us that we have to give them nicknames. Among countless other slang used to regard the many uptown Athens bars, these three are regular terms to us. After a few weekends spent here, you catch on to the lingo and can recount your Saturday night using all the nicknames.
7. Chicken N Waffles
This had to be touched upon considering that it has a very different meaning to Bobcats than to anyone else. To most people, it is a respectable meal served on a plate at your local breakfast restaurant. For OU Students, however, it is far less respectable, comes from a tiny window that is only open in the wee hours of the night, and is served in sandwich form. You might love it or you might despise it, but if you're a Bobcat then you've certainly tried it, and you probably got extra sauce.
8. Bobcat Blackout
IT'S LIGHTS OUT IN THE CONVO! If you're reading this and you aren't from OU, then you probably think this is a drinking term. But if you're a Bobcat, then you have been a part of this exciting event. Being in the student section at the Convo (or at Peden Stadium) is a right of passage to all Ohio U students. Our school spirit and the many characters who make it a fun time for everyone makes even the games we lose feel like a victory. People think that drinking is our only sport, but athletics are a surprisingly large part of being a bobcat.
9. HallOUween
What we're most known for, of course. Everyone knows all about our very extra block party, but I still couldn't leave it out. Whether you look forward to it every year or hate it for its ridiculous crowds, it's still every Bobcat's favorite holiday. And you must admit that it's a perk being able to dress up above the age of 12. With live music, countless food vendors and plenty of beer to go around, Hallouween really has something for everyone. That's probably why all your friends from high school ask to come.
10. "hOUme."
The term that every other school hates most about us. What they don't understand, though, is how much OU really is home to us. While commuting or going to a school near a big city are great options, going to college in a small town as quirky and welcoming as Athens is something very few are lucky enough to experience. Yes, we have so much pride to be Bobcats. And yes, I can see how our way of pushing the letters O and U into as many words as we can would be annoying to an outsider. But if you went here, you would understand.
As if those 10 beloved terms don't prove it enough, I am obsessed with being a Bobcat. It's a family that I never expected, but it's one that I will have forever. These things are terms that all Bobcats can hear and be reminded of the place where they had their best times. It's a place where people come together, a place where people achieve, and a place that is truly LIT. OU forever.
