As summer begins to draw to a close, there’s one very apparent difference I’ve noticed between high school and college students. Those still in high school are trying to draw out every bit of summer before their first day, whereas college students are fervently counting down the minutes until they’re back on campus.
Having completed my first year of undergraduate studies, I can confidently say that I subscribe to the latter opinion. I have a college countdown on my phone, and yes, I check it almost every day as a reminder of the memories that my year ahead will include. To me, this speaks volumes for the effect the college experience has on young adults. Although going to class certainly isn’t the first thing I want to do once I return, I actually am somewhat enthusiastic (yet intimidated by the work load) about each upcoming year of classes—something I never felt in high school.
In an effort to quell my ever-growing anticipation of my return to Lehigh, here’s a list of the top reasons why Lehigh students are looking forward to going back to the beautiful South Side.
1. The Goose.
Maybe you prefer an Anakin over a Krabby Patty by the Bay, or perhaps the New New New is more your thing. Either way, this beloved establishment (and its secret menu) will become much busier than it already is once students are back on campus.
2. Having your best friends within walking distance.
I don't know about you, but the fact that I actually have to drive to see friends at home is much more of a hassle than it is at school. Having instant access to your peers (be it down the hall or across campus) makes things substantially more convenient (and exciting) for doing just about anything.
3. Le-Laf week and The Rivalry.
Lehigh students' favorite week of the year. Between bed races, the marching band storming in on classes and the Turkey Trot, there's a little something for everyone to get in the spirit for The Rivalry game. And of course, joining in with the rest of the school to chant "BEAT LAFAYETTE" at the stadium. (I mean, who else can say they go to the school with the NCAA's most-played football rivalry?)
4. The stairs (yes, really).
Although we complain about them all year, Lehigh students certainly don't joke when they say the stairs can help keep off the freshman 15. Not to mention, it gives us a valid excuse to skip the gym for a day (or five).
5. The bragging rights from the aforementioned stairs.
Following up with the above commentary — we have calves of steel, and we make sure everyone at home knows it.
6. The freedom of GoldPlus.
Needing to only carry your phone and swipe around campus has its perks. That is, until you've spent all your GoldPlus and Dining Dollars on coffee, Upper and Johnny's Bagels and have none left for laundry.
8. The club fair (but mostly, all the free stuff).
We're college students. We love free stuff — including the competitive battle to get a Lehigh wrestling shirt (until approximately 15 minutes after the club fair starts, when they're completely out).
9. Mocos
Where else is it socially acceptable to wear a tutu, sombrero and a sports jersey simultaneously on a Saturday morning? Consider our sense of Mocos style "embracing your inner Lady Gaga."
10. The constant excitement of being on campus.
Being on a college campus has its perks. There is always something to do and somewhere to be, although it may not always be your first choice (I'm looking at you, endless homework sessions in Lindy and FML).
11. Crossing things off of your Lehigh bucket list.
Visiting the Bethlehem Star, the sculpture garden or accessing the roof of an academic building are just a few of the things students hope to accomplish in their time here.
12. Hawk’s Nest.
Remember how you thought the stairs would keep you from the freshman 15? Well, here's where you gain it. Regardless, Hawk's Nest is a great place for underclassmen to meet up after a long night out. And who can resist a Lehigh Chocolate Brownie milkshake or Feel Good Fries?
13. Getting mail.
In a college student's eyes, this is basically Christmas. Receiving that glorious email notification and walking down to the mail center, then proudly displaying your package on the walk through campus. (Unless of course, your package includes textbooks, in which case, you trudge miserably back up the hill.)
14. Halloweek
The second-best week of the year: a time where having five different Halloween costumes is not only 100 percent acceptable, but is also highly encouraged
15. And of course, reminiscing about when Lehigh beat Duke.
Although the students who experienced this game may have already graduated, we will never forget that fateful day during March Madness 2012 when Lehigh ... well, you know the rest of the story.
