I did a lot of planning before college. I remember rewriting my packing list hundreds of times before my mom told me she wasn't buying a U-Haul and I really needed to chill. It seems like yesterday was move-in day, and suddenly I am in week nine, hoping to eat something other than ramen and still trying to navigate campus. I am nowhere near completing my "100 things to do before you graduate" checklist, but I can tell you 4 things to avoid at Ohio University:
1. The line at Front Room anytime you need coffee -- because suddenly everyone else does, too.
Front Room, a Starbucks on the top floor of Baker University Center, often attracts a hub of students. We gather not only for good coffee in a convenient location but for the cozy environment offered while meeting with friends. The line is something to be aware of when hoping to grab a quick shot of espresso. Plan accordingly: the line is either one or two tired students or a horde of the hungover.
2. Red Brick. Enough said.
Dubbed the "freshmen bar," Red Brick is known for cheap liquor and easy entrance. It is always packed shoulder to shoulder, filled with overly intoxicated college kids, and dangerous to walk in (judging by the constantly sticky or wet floor).
3. Bringing guests that behave as though they have no common sense. (You know who you are, you with the overly obnoxious friends.)
Not only does this put you at risk for disciplinary complications, but it's annoying. Athens is our home now. We want to respect it, and we want people visiting to respect it too. It's a blast being able to bring people from back home to see how you're experiencing college! It's not a blast, however, babysitting your kinda-friend from high school because they can't walk. I can't tell you how many times I have received a shrug along with "we don't even go here" as an attempt to excuse terrible behavior. It's as embarrassing for you as it is for your friends acting like dumbasses on Mill Street.
4. Practicing poor etiquette while intoxicated or helping the intoxicated.
Every "OU is a party school" is met with an eye-roll while we correct people by saying how proud we are of our academics, sports teams, extracurriculars, etc. Even after hating all the ridicule we receive, we still came to Ohio University knowing we are famous for block parties, the Court Street bars, and our Fests. I believe one of the reasons we all feel safe punishing our livers so frequently is because we take care of each other. Athens is a safe town, as far as college towns go, but we do an excellent job extending extra courtesy to those impaired around us. Walk your friend home, know your limit, watch what's poured into the jungle juice, and know how to give and receive consent.
Ohio University is a wonderful place to attend college, and Athens is an even better place to call home. Extend courtesy to those around you and you'll receive the same kindness from others. Nothing compares to the spirit here; we truly are the Bobcat family.