With my first semester as a freshman at Temple University coming to a close, I have learned a great deal about the school itself and the welcoming community that I have quickly become a part of. Temple University is a very unique and diverse place, which are two of the key reasons why its students thrive and achieve continuing success.

Located in North Philadelphia, less than a few miles from Center City, Temple provides so many opportunities for all of its students. Being a part of such an accepting, and homely community has provided me with the opportunity to grow and change as a person. Over the course of the semester; here are seven things that I have come to learn, and now to know about Temple.

1. Your Owl Card is everything

This single card holds everything you need as a Temple student. With this card, you have access to buildings on campus, Diamond Dollars, your meal plan and more. The fear of losing this card in its time of need is something that I hope to never experience. Trust me, you do not want to pay for a new one.

2. Protests are normal

If the weather is nice and campus seems lively, there will be people on campus spewing their ideals and beliefs. Even if you do not agree with what is being said, just try to mind your own business and keep on with your day.

3. The wind is terrible

Even though Chicago is known as "The Windy City," Temple's campus has proven Philadelphia to be very windy as well. Sometimes, the wind has felt so bad that I have been afraid of blowing away. This might be an exaggeration, but the wind in places like between Morgan Hall North and Morgan Hall South, and between Anderson Hall and Gladfelter Hall is awful.

4. Raging all-nighters at the Tech

When it comes to completing homework, or studying for exams, the Tech is everyone's go-to study spot on campus. Good luck getting a computer during midterms and finals weeks!

5. The struggles of taking SEPTA

In my experience, I have found SEPTA's Broad Street Line Subway and Regional Rail Trains to be a blessing and a curse. Both forms of transportation get you where you need to go but these trains never arrive on schedule and the wait times between trains always feel like an eternity.

6. The squirrels are not your friends

The squirrels around Temple's campus may look cute and friendly but there is much more than meets the eye. These squirrels are afraid of nothing and will do everything in their power to steal your food.

7. There always seems to be construction

Construction is unavoidable and always seems to be occurring just about everywhere on campus. Personally, I have become used to the construction and I have learned to deal with the noise and detours. At least, eventually, there will be new amenities on campus for everyone to enjoy.