There is something special about going to the same school as one of your parents. The loyalty to the school seems amplified. Even way back then, the traditions and town were the same, leaving out some upgrades and new improvements. It creates a special bond filled with inside jokes and secrets only a student from that certain university would know. Sitting down together on the couch for hours during breaks -- much like this week with all the bowl games on -- screaming at the TV, cheering on your team. Tailgating reaches a whole new level, so many parents and alumni come back for football games. There are tents as far as the eye can see; it is obvious the spirit never dies. There is something about wearing the same colors as your parent, an unspoken understanding has been created.

I am a freshman at East Carolina, and back in the late 1980's my dad attended the University as well. We are involved with Greek life; he was a Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE), and this fall I rushed Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA). I love hearing the stories about Pantana Bob's and football games before we had our amazing stadium. He knows not to walk under the cupola and can tell you everything about downtown back then, even though it was much smaller than it is now. He always texts me before a big game or a social. It's like he knows the feeling without even being here.

My dad never brought up the idea of me going to East Carolina; he never wanted it to seem forced.  He wanted me to go my own path and be successful, but having heard about the Pirate Nation since I could walk caused me to instantly fall in love. We had ECU footballs, shirts, little Pee Dee the Pirate dolls, I even had my own East Carolina cheer leading uniform with gold and purple pom poms. It created a special place in my heart for the school and the funny thing is that I had never visited the school until orientation after my acceptance letter was received.  

I would love for my own children to attend the University and continue the tradition. It is an amazing feeling knowing you have made your parent proud without even trying. Simply picking a place to receive an education holds value. I am proud to rep the purple and gold on any day with my dad. The East Carolina flag proudly hangs outside our house every day.