Iowa State University is an incredible school that many of us are lucky enough to attend. (36,660 of us, actually). Over breaks, particularly summer, I come to miss the place that I spend most of my time and I really have started to call home. I guess distance makes the heart grow fonder. There are more reasons than I can list about why I love Iowa State, but here are just some worth naming:

1. Campus

Iowa State has one of the most beautiful campuses (We even ranked 5th out of 25 of the Most Beautiful College Campuses). Even simply walking across campus can brighten your day and make you appreciative of where you get to go to school every day.

2. Unique Study Spots

A super cool thing about Iowa State is that there is no shortage of places to find unique, interesting and cool study spots year round. If the weather is good, hammocks tend to be the place of choice, and even if the weather is not permitting, there is no shortage of cool places to study, read, and relax on campus.

3. Seasonal change

Winter

Spring

Summer

Fall

One of my absolute favorite things about Iowa State and it's gorgeous campus is that you get to experience absolutely every season in its entirety. The campus, while always beautiful, changes so drastically throughout the year and is always interesting and captivating.

4. Library

I know this one sounds strange, but the library at Iowa State is perfect for whatever mood you're in, whether that's studying with friends and a coffee, or studying alone in the periodicals. From puppies during dead week, to being open 24/7 during important times, there's a lot to be said about the library.

5. Traditions

Iowa State has so many traditions that make attending the school just that little bit more fun. Although they're not seen in everyday life, Iowa State has traditions that have lasted for generations; from not stepping on the zodiac, to kissing under the campanile at midnight, just to name two.

6. Football Season

Historically we do not have a good football team, however the atmosphere and school spirit from the students and supporters is always surprising and present despite this. The student section still fills up, the tailgates are still intense and we still go all out on game-day, even if it means we are prepared for a loss.

7. Basketball Season

Basketball season is always a thrill at Iowa State, especially as a win is always a very valid option. The atmosphere is incredible, and the fans are dedicated (you can tell this because we camp out a week before the game just to get good seats). When you're sitting in Hilton, there's a certain magic that makes you feel lucky to be a cyclone.

8. Options

Iowa State has more than 100 majors and 100 minors, so it's impossible NOT to find something that you love to major in. The options are, quite literally, endless, and I'm confident I'll graduate with a major that I want to do for the rest of my life.

9. Friends

I have met the most incredible people through my time at Iowa State. It is so easy to make friends and form social circles at a school of such enthusiastic and loving people; Iowa State has helped me make friends that will last a lifetime.

10. Culture

Iowa State has an incredible culture that cannot be beat. I can't describe what it is that makes it so special to be a cyclone; just that it certainly is an honor and incredibly extraordinary. Not only am I doing something I love, but I am doing it where I love, and I wouldn't change that for the world.