Let’s face it, every college has its special set of quirks and characteristics that make that college a student’s love-able second home. Maryville College is no exception to that statement, and anyone who spends a significant amount of time at MC finds these next five things to be extremely relatable:

1. Climbing Thaw “Mountain”

Thaw Hall is home to the steepest staircase known to man. Reaching the summit of Thaw Mountain is an inevitable feat every Maryville College student will experience. Boasting what seems like 100 stairs at a 90-degree angle, this staircase is an intimidating hike, especially on a tired student’s way to their 8 a.m. class. Is there an elevator you ask? Yes, but on the other side of the building. If you’re running late for class, it’s more efficient to feel those thighs burn. Plus, you can easily count it as that week’s routine workout.

2. Getting a sandwich at lunch

The food at Maryville College is good, don’t get me wrong. After a student swipes in, though, they may find that nothing appeals to them. This usually means deeming that day a "sandwich day" and turning to the sandwich bar to have a sandwich made to order. Would you like that toasted?

3. Dreaded steam heat

The steam plant is a blessing and a curse. It provides sufficient heat in the winter time, keeping students warm and comfortable, but creates oven-like conditions in all buildings on campus if turned on too soon, or turned off too late. Once steam is turned on, it’s on until spring. Since East Tennessee weather is so unpredictable (Christmas Eve was 76 degrees last year), it’s impossible to maintain constant temperatures in the buildings, consequently making students sleep in a pool of their own sweat.

4. Calling our Dean by her first name

When first hearing a student call our Dean by her first name it can seem somewhat disrespectful, but not when you have the coolest Dean in the history of Deans like we do at Maryville College. Calling Dean Kemp “Vandy” gives her an image of approachability, and that she is. She’s one of the most caring and compassionate people on our campus, and we wouldn’t survive without our Vandy.

5. No-judgement zone

Maryville College students are free to be themselves without fear of judgment and ridicule. As long as you are not hurting anyone else, you act how you want to act and be who you want to be, feeling good about yourself. Most students (keyword being ‘most’) leave their drama and bullying attitudes in high school. Maryville College students, overall, have loving personalities and don’t care how you act, as long as you’re happy.