Becoming a Tennessee Volunteer was probably one of the best choices I've ever made, and while there are a million reasons why, I've compiled the top eight reasons why everyone knows it's great to be a Tennessee Vol.
1. Construction. All of the construction.
Sure, campus will always be a work in progress, but don't even get me started on Cumberland. In your heart and soul, you know that eventually everything will look really beautiful. Unfortunately, you might be graduated by then. It's an ongoing hassle, but we'll all make it through together.
2. Sitting five feet from your idol.
Yes, Jalen Hurd will probably be in your Sociology class, and Derek Barnett might even be in your Geology class. After about a day, though, you figure out that they're real people who just have a highly marketable skill. No one will die if you talk to them like you'd talk to a human person, because, shockingly enough, that's exactly what they are. Speaking of football though...
3. Saturdays are made for wearing orange and white.
Game days are celebrated in style, even if our boys aren't in Neyland. Throw on those checkered overalls and prepare for the day. Watch parties are abundant, cheers echo throughout The Fort, and, if we're lucky enough, we'll have half off Papa Johns pizza every Monday, all season long. The only downside to watching the Florida game at home? There are bound to be a couple televisions as casualties.
4. Gus's will always be there when other men fail you.
This point absolutely speaks for itself. I'm a firm believer that Gus's can cure any and all ailments, male-inflicted or otherwise. There's a reason this is Peyton's favorite place when he comes into town.
5. You avoid Ped Walkway like the plague.
There are only so many flyers, giveaways, and abortion banners a girl can take in a single semester. I'd say the only time you'll catch me here is if I'm headed directly from HSS to Hodges.
6. You know that ____ does not mean yes.
One of the most respectable things UT has done in the past few years is to make sure every student knows the definition of 'consent.' You couldn't walk five minutes without seeing a neon-colored poster to remind you that being drunk, flirting, 2 A.M., or indecision do not mean 'yes.' They even got a little creative with it. Props to you, UT, for this campaign.
7. Every day is leg day.
Walking up to Ayers could really be the only workout you'll ever need. The calves start burning, palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy...
8. "Vols Help Vols" is more than a catchy phrase, it's a way of life.
Whether it's just helping someone pick up all their books in the hallway or making sure someone finds their way home one Friday night, Vols really do help Vols. As Vols, we may not always agree on everything, but we know someone in orange will always have our back when the going gets tough.
UT is a beautiful place, filled with beautiful people. I'll always call Knoxville "home," and I'll always scream Rocky Top- even when we lose.
