Nestled in the West side of Evansville, a few miles past Walmart and one exit and a left turn later, sits the University of Southern Indiana. Not only is it one of the most beautiful campuses I personally have ever seen, it is also home to some amazing students and faculty. But those aren't my only favorite things about this place. Here are just some of the many things I love about USI.
1. The bus driver, James.
I can recall at least two or three times where I've been having just a "blah" day, and I've been walking back toward my dorm and suddenly seen a bus that James was driving. He'd wave at me and instantly, my mood was lifted. Now, I always get excited whenever I see a bus, because I'm looking forward to a wave from my favorite bus driver. Not only does he make people smile with his waves, but he boosts morale, and I think that is definitely one of my favorite things about this place.
2. Cyclone salads.
Let's be honest, as college students, it's kind of hard to eat healthy on such a limited budget sometimes. With school and work, it's usually just easier to grab a quick bite to eat somewhere fast. And believe me when I tell you that the freshman 15 is a very real thing, so it's nice to be able to mix things up and eat something healthy for a change. Many places on campus offer a variety of healthy and tasty options, but my own personal favorite is Cyclone salads. They're just...oh my gosh.
3. The library.
We are blessed beyond belief to have such a beautiful library. I love being able to go there after my classes, set my books down and just take a deep breath. With such a bustling, busy campus, my favorite place to go is the second floor, right next to the stairs, because of its sweet silence, and simply relax. There are so many wonderful perks of having such a big and gorgeous library, and I hope that everyone does take advantage of its many uses.
4. The Quad.
A big problem with many college campuses is the confusing layout. Sure, moving anywhere is a bit hard at first - but I've talked to friends who go to different schools and they say that they still have trouble finding certain places. Here, we are blessed with four of our main buildings centered around one pretty stretch of grass we lovingly call The Quad, with our other important buildings not that far off. Everything is right there, easy to find, and that's made the transition to USI even easier.
5. The faculty and staff.
This is pretty self-explanatory - this place would not be as well run as it is without the strenuous effort of the people who work here. From the people who clean, to the Sodexo workers, the professors, to the President, they all are a wonderful part of this college community and make it feel even more like home.
6. The dorms/apartments.
Let's be real: a big horror story from many of our other college friends are that they hate their dorm rooms or their place of living. Here at USI, I take pride in the fact that I absolutely love my dorm and I love going to my friend's apartments because they are big and comfortable.
7. Finally, the unity.
A huge part of the college experience is finding yourself. I feel like that is integral here - USI gives you a chance to both be yourself and find new experiences, all while feeling accepted and as if you belong here. These are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. And that, to me, is the best thing about this place. Everyone belongs, you are safe, and you are loved.
