Oh Appalachian, Neer Country, the High Country, 3,333 feet above sea level. Whatever you like to call it, the Appalachian family thinks of it as home. Summer is coming to an end, and we're about to be reunited with some of our favorite Neer things. It doesn't matter if you're an Alumni or a rising Sophomore, there are certain aspects about this campus/town that will remain in our hearts forever.
1. Sanford Mall
Nothing truly beats a fall day on Sanford Mall. As the school year slowly creeps upon us, there's no telling how many people are preparing their Enos and slack lines. What's better than spending your free time watching the preachers and students argue?
2. Shopping on King Street
Oh King Street, thank you for taking what little money this broke college student has. May it be at Boone Bagelry, Boone Belles, or the Mast General Store, I miss spending what little money I have on great finds.
3. Boone Cuisine
Dos, China Wok, Taste Grill, Hokkaido—great cheap cuisine for the broke App students. Maybe if your parents are in town, you can convince them to take you to The Peddler or Proper. A wide variety of food is just a few miles away in Boone, what's not to miss about that?
4. Hikes on the parkway
Nothing compares to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Nothing. You're lying to yourself if you think Crowders Mountains is in competition with any hiking trail within the parkway. Alums and current students can recall numerous hikes and joy rides on a beautiful Boone day.
5. Football Games/Tailgates
Yeah, we might not be an SEC school, but boy do we act like it. May I remind everyone of our three national championship titles? Duck Pond Field is covered with Greeks before an Appalachian football game. We all miss the black and yellow fans covering the parking lot and crowding Kidd-Brewer stadium. Don't worry Neers, the first game is September 5th.
(PS. Remember that time we beat you, Michigan?)
6. Cascades
So I may be a little bias. But boy do I miss Cascades. Imagine a hot dog or smoothies from there right now... Did your mouth just water? Mine sure did. I miss those quick snacks on my walk back to my dorm or before a class.
7. The Appalachian Family
I miss all the individuals who make this Appalachian family. The diverse personalities found at App make is such a wonderful place. Even if summer break is only three months, it's sure something I miss. Being a mountaineer creates a bond between generations of people. We all love the Appalachian ways and are always around to be a Mountaineer.
I wonder how unicycle guy is doing right about now?
