Before summer started, I was counting down the days until it was over. I couldn't wait to finish all of my classes and get out of Ruston. I wanted to leave. However, there's something unforgetable about Louisiana Tech. As the days of summer drag on, I can't help but think about the university I have left behind. There were so many parts of Louisiana Tech I took for granted; now, with three months ahead of me, I find myself counting down the days until I reunite with my university.
1. Tolliver
With the smell of roasting coffee and the sounds of students chattering, Tolliver always felt like home to me. It was the perfect hangout and often doubled as a studying area during finals week. Tolliver was home to my favorite places to eat, such as Mcalister's and Bene's, and it was where I spent those last few precious dollars of declining balance as I neared the end of the year. Now that a hot meal and a lunch date with friends is no longer a small walk away, I have started to appreciate Tolliver a lot more.
2. The quad
The quad is definitely one of my favorite parts about campus. There is something relaxing about its atmosphere, from the bubbling of the Lady of the Mist to the soothing piano music that always seems to be playing. I always feel welcomed and at home as soon as I step foot on the quad. I often found myself relaxing there to help take my mind off of the stress of exams. There really is no place quite like it at the university, and I cannot wait until I return.
3. Wyly Tower
Knowing that one day Wyly Tower will be demolished, makes me miss it more. When I see the huge building, I know that I am home. It is an icon that I treasure the sight of, and I miss it dearly every day that I do not see it in the background. There's just something about Wyly Tower that adds to the beauty of Louisiana Tech, and I don't think I will truly be at peace until I see the familiar building again.
4. Tech XXI
How could you not miss this cute face during the summer? Having a live mascot is just one of the many things that makes Louisiana Tech unique, and it sucks not being able to see XXI as often as I did during the school year. If I'm being honest with myself, part of the reason I went to events was so I could take a picture with XXI (it's a rite of passage) and to pet him. Really, why else would I go? I can't wait until I finally get to see this cute face again!
5. The clock tower
Just like Wyly Tower, when I see the clock tower I know I'm home. It provides a nice balance to the imposing building, and it often serves as a gentle reminder to hurry up and get to class before you're late (again). I always saw it as I drove up to campus, and it signaled to me that the long drive was finally over. Not only has it become an icon of Louisiana Tech, but in the past year that I have been a student here, the clock tower has become an integral part of the time spent and memories made here at the university. When Wyly Tower is gone, I know that I will always be able to turn to this familiar sight to guide me home.
