On college campuses from sea to shining sea, there are always those people who may work there, go to school there, or just live in the area that seemingly everyone knows. Now that the clock is ticking on my illustrious tenure as a student at West Chester University, I’d like to look back at the ten local legends here at Dub C that I’m going to miss after graduation.
10. Baker Bob
Now, normally, the idea of you receiving baked goods from an older gentleman in rainbow suspenders after you just got done eating soggy eggs with a hangover that could take down a small ox would be cause for suspicion, but Baker Bob still didn’t let this rain on his parade. My man always kept his game face on and sold the students the pastries like Jordan Belfort pitching a small stock. Baker Bob, keep on keeping on.
9. Matthew Bricketto
Now I’ve never met him, nor am I 100 percent positive that he actually exists, but he is always there with all of the updates by communicating completely electronically. So he’s basically West Chester’s version of Tom from MySpace. While the emails can be annoying at times, this might be one of those “you don’t know what you got until it’s gone” type deals.
8. My mailman
This guy. This guy can be seen with his Santa Claus beard and Sideshow Bob-like grey hair providing everyone with their mail. The fact that my mail is 95 percent of the time letters for former people who still list my house as their mailing address is irrelevant. He may be the only mailman in West Chester but he still brings the juice, and for that I salute you.
7. Calvin from "Lawrence"
“I want to be like you.” And with that quote, not only did I receive my burger, grilled cheese, what have you, but a nice little confidence booster on the side. Sure he might be sarcastic, but I don’t care. If you can make me feel good about myself in "Lawrence", then you’re OK in my book.
6. The "Sykes" Taco Lady
There’s a lot to be said about the presentation when it comes to getting a meal. Not only was this lady one of the best taco rollers this side of the Mississippi, but home-girl was also one of the funniest people ever. So when it comes to her getting a public shout out, to quote the O.G., “Gotchu baby.”
5. The kid who always holds the door open for people
I most frequently ran into him by the doors facing the quad of Main Hall. He could also be seen working the rock wall at the gym. But what makes this dude a first ballot hall of famer is the fact that he says, "To hell with this 'chivalry is dead' malarkey. I’m going to hold the doors for every single person coming through, rain or shine." He leaves it all out on the field for the squad, not the individual glory. If I’m an employer, I’m hiring that guy any day of the week and twice on Sunday. The force is strong in this one.
4. Miss Betty(s)
For my money, they are the two greatest hostesses there has ever been. Nothing made my day more than getting to "Lawrence" and seeing either Betty, or Miss Betty (there were two and equally as adorable) just loving life and crushing the little old lady game. Plus, when kids came through trying to be slick, they would play along with the jokes. Dinner and a show. Love it.
3. Diner Dan
It seemed that nothing brought one Daniel Swiss any more joy than telling drunk freshmen they can’t have a milkshake. And as a spectator, I became a fan. At least once a week, you could see Diner Dan around campus doing Diner Dan things, preparing for a long night of putting up with a lot more crap than he really deserved.
2. Dwayne from "Jake’s"
I’m not really sure if he spells his name “Duane” or “Dwayne,” like how the Rock does it, but I’m going to go with the latter because he’s just as big of a beast. He took every tip that he received to heart, to the point that he shakes every single person’s hand he serves. That’s love. He is the reason to go back. The drink prices are cool too, I guess.
1. My friends
Yeah I went the sentimental route for the finale. Sue me. But as far as I’m concerned, there are no bigger legends on campus than the guys I was fortunate enough to share a floor with, and later, a house. It’s simply not going to be the same waking up every day dealing with the BS trials and tribulations that come with being an adult in society without you guys fighting the battle with me. But for now, it’s Friday night, and it’s time to do what we do best. #8thFloor #511
There’s numerous reasons why West Chester is a great school, but the diverse personalities of the people who go there, work there, and live there is one of the biggest components that makes not just the school, but also the area, so special. Go Rams.
