The sun is shining and the Plaster Student Union Bear is no longer decorated with icicles, which means spring has finally arrived to Missouri State's campus. Among these, there are a few other distinct ways to indicate the seasons have changed and warm weather is finally back on our beautiful campus.

1. The fountain is on.

The revival of the fountain is one of the most exciting traditions on campus and a pretty good indicator that the chilly weather is (hopefully) gone for good. In fact, the university dedicates an entire festival celebration sponsored by Traditions Council so the entire population can truly enjoy it.

2. The flowers have begun to bloom.

The groundskeepers do an impeccable job of making Missouri State a beautiful place to attend, especially in the spring when the flowers peek up from the soil. Between the blossoming trees and the flowers themselves, the campus is popping with new life and excitement.

3. Hammons Field is flooded with maroon.

Baseball season around Missouri State is one of the favorite seasons. Hot dogs, the Diamond Girls, cute baseball boys, and having the outfield in front of you under the warm sun? Yeah, they're back. Don't mind if I do.

4. You get condemned to Hell once more by the crazy Christian preachers that come to campus.

Nothing really signifies warmer weather more than being called a slut for wearing Nike gym shorts to class. The sun shining down upon posters bearing the words "You deserve Hell" and hearing birds chirping alongside the occasional "Your mom was probably a whore" really help celebrate the season change.

5. You can break out the short-sleeved Bear Wear again.

It's still kind of a gamble on if it's chilly outside, but the sun is shining so we take what we can get. It's a good thing we didn't pack up all of our maroon sweatshirts over Christmas break, but you can probably survive with a light jacket now, so we're making progress.

Spring at Missouri State University is one of the most beautiful times to visit and be on campus. It's an indicator of new beginnings and happy endings, and it's just an enjoyable time to be surrounded by so much color and positivity.