If you're a junior or senior in high school and are having a hard time deciding between Iowa State and another school (*cough, Iowa, cough*), don't stress, because I have just a few reasons why you should choose the better school right here.
1. The campus.
Iowa State has been nationally recognized as having one of the prettiest college campuses in the entire country, and it's completely true. There is nothing better than walking to class in October when the leaves are falling and the campanile is playing in the background.
2. The people.
ISU is home to some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. Everyone is friendly, welcoming and willing to help you find your home wherever it might be. How could that not make you want to come to school here? I guess it's just a Midwest thing.
3. Hilton Magic.
First used in 1989 by sportswriter Buck Turnbull, Hilton Magic is defined as Hilton Coliseum's power to produce unexpected victories. There is truly nothing like the energy you feel in Hilton when Naz Long shoots a buzzer beater to upset Oklahoma State. Really the only way I can describe it as, well, magic.
4. The Campanile.
The Campanile is a bell tower on central campus that rings every hour on the hour, and even takes requests of songs to be played on Friday's. How can you be in a mad mood when Greased Lightening is being played on your way to class? The answer is simple, you can't.
5. The traditions.
From Yell like Hell, to not stepping on the Zodiac and Curtis to Beardshear, Iowa State has plenty of really fun traditions you can be apart of. Want to become an official Iowa State student? Just kiss your significant other at midnight under the Campanile!
6. Big, but not too spread out.
ISU is home to 36,000 students. You would assume that means we have a huge campus and you'll never make it to class on time. Completely untrue. The majority of buildings are all around central campus and are at max. a 10-15 minute walk. Have a class all the way in Lagomarcino? Don't worry about being late, 23 Orange will become your best friend.
7. Greek life.
With 17 sororities and 31 fraternities to choose from, Iowa State's Greek life is incredible. There's a home for every single person on campus, so if you're thinking that Greek life isn't for you, think again, because you will find your place. I promise.
8. Tailgating.
There's nothing quite like waking up at 5a.m. for an 11a.m. game and tailgating with hundreds of other kids at the Haunted Forest.
9. Rivalries.
We love to hate Iowa, and they love to hate us right back.
10. Clone cones.
Your Hilton Magic experience isn't complete until you've had a clone cone. There's something special about vanilla ice cream dyed red and yellow, and I don't really know what it is. All I know is that you need to try it.
11. Academics.
It's easy to forget sometimes, but the main reason you're going to college is to get an education, and Iowa State is the perfect place for that. With internationally acclaimed programs and professors, Iowa State is no doubt one of the best places to choose to further your education. I promise you won't regret choosing your adventure here.
