I love the University of Kansas. From the iconic basketball games to my unforgettable living experience to the relationships I've made, I can't imagine going to college anywhere else.
Another unique aspect of KU is our mascot, the Jayhawk. Inspired by the "Jayhawkers" of the Civil War era, this red and blue bird is completely mythical and wears shoes to kick out the competition. Naturally, we have these smiling creatures everywhere, from buildings to free water bottles. However, the place people see these the most (aside from sporting events) are as statues. In fact, the most photographed Jayhawk on campus is the statue right in front of the union.
This particular Jayhawk is the successor of three different Memorial Union Jayhawks, all of which were broken in various ways and forced to retire. Since its manifestation in 2013, the current Jayhawk has still been through it all, showcasing perfectly how resilient Jayhawks truly are. Here are some of the experiences.
1. T-bagging
Whether it's a dare for frat guys or the interesting choice of some drunk gentleman, this bird has seen its unfortunate share of...male anatomy.
**I apologize for the awkward face. I have neither the knowledge nor the equipment to properly T-Bag.
2. Drunk humans
So many body fluids that once originated in a drunk person have landed on this Jayhawk while that person was waiting for their SafeRide. Tears, sweat, puke, this bird has withstood it all.
3. Families from Iowa
One of the primary reasons this is the most photographed Jayhawk is that visiting families like to snap a picture of it with their future little Jayhawk. Therefore, there are many awkward family photos with those delightfully awkward smiles that he's put up with.
4. Senior pics
True story: My friends and I were walking past this particular Jay one afternoon, and there is a guy posing for a picture who, after the photographer takes a few, says, "Wait a sec, I have another outfit." While this is an idea I'll probably steal for my future senior pics, we had to ask each other, "Hasn't Jay been through enough?"
5. Selfies
6. The elements
7. Various picture poses
I've seen people climb into his lap, on his back, on top of his head, and even perched on his beak. This just proves he is one strong statue, both physically and emotionally.
8. Sorority squats
It seems like all groups at KU have taken their group picture with this Jayhawk at least once in their existence. So many butts have inherently been pressed against him in an effort to get the perfect picture squat.
9. K-State spit
Since it's in a prominent place and an emblem that encapsulates everything good and pure about KU, this Jayhawk has surely been the recipient of many a rival's phlegm.
10. Weird girls photographing him for an article
