You know you've made the right choice in schools when you are counting down the days until you get to go back. As the long summer days pass, I am constantly missing the little tiny school way up on the bluff. I miss the people, the campus, and (dare I admit it) even the weather. Thinking about going back to school got me thinking and reflecting on what it truly means to be a Portland Pilot. Here are 10 things that every student at UP knows to be true.
1. You’re constantly correcting people that you go
to UP not PSU, or even U of P. 
No, the private Catholic one. No, Portland, Oregon -- not Maine.
2. You have way too much purple and white in your wardrobe.
Proud to admit that my PJs, workout clothes, lounging around outfits, and every hat I own are a lovely shade of purple or white -- most likely with an anchor to match.
3. Your dorm is the best dorm on campus, and there's no arguing.
Ship what? (Enough said.)
4. Men look better in kilts.
And better yet, you can buy one at an auction too! (Yes I mean a man and not a kilt)
5. Your mascot more or less resembles a famous totalitarian
leader who shall remain nameless.
But its Wally Pilot and we love him regardless, bushy beard and all.
6. Beware this roaming, white car.
If no one is in there, look around, they're probably riding a bike. Or giving you a parking ticket. Either way just remember: be safe for P-Safe!
7. You’re convinced that your freshman year in the dorm was a sociology experiment.
Forcing three people in a room for two? “Extended double” -- hmm.
8. Bon App is the common enemy.
Can someone please explain to me why their desserts are exponentially better than the food? And, frankly, I don't care much for being yelled at if I accidentally throw a napkin in the compost bin. At least we have mac 'n' cheese to look forward to on Tuesdays.
9. Enjoy watching soccer (specifically women’s) or go home.
If you weren’t a soccer fan before coming to UP, don’t worry, you will be.
10. You will be a Pilot till you die.
Too cheesy? Doesn't matter. You realize how blessed you are to attend such an amazing school.
I am so excited to head back up to Portland when school begins. Being away for quite some time now has given me room to understand that I go to a school that cares about me and my future. As any college student, there have been times where I questioned the choice I made in attending my school. But I quickly realized I am where I am supposed to be. So I can say with confidence that I am proud to be a Pilot (steam boat, not airplane)!
