It is move-in day, and that means it’s time to readjust to life at Ohio University. Everyone’s mind is racing, thinking about all the friends they will see and places they will go when reunited in Athens. There is so much to do when arriving back from trying foods to seeing friends to going places. Luckily, we made a “chore” list of things to do that will make any OU Bobcat's homecoming a special one.
First thing is first: decorate your living space and make it your home. Whether you are living off campus or in a dorm room, this is your home for the next year, and you should make it special. Decorate the walls with pictures, arrange the furniture just the way you like it and make new friends that live close by as you settle in.
Second, get some quality food from Court Street. You can't deny you've missed your favorite spicy delicacy from Big Mamma's Burritos, the famous Chicken-N-Waffle from Uptown Grille, a milkshake at Union Street Diner, a slice of Goodfella’s pizza or a special treat at Whit's. Grab your friends and get a bite to eat Uptown before your first night out on the town.
Do not be afraid to take a walk up to the scenic Ridges. Start the year off with an adventure. Some of the best memories are made in the strangest of places. Enjoy the walk there as you take in the scenery of the place that has been waiting for you since April and catch up with friends. Wait until you get to the top of The Ridges and look down on campus as it lights up at night.
We all know that Welcome Weekend can get pretty crazy, but Nelson's breakfast the next morning is always the perfect tradition. Omelets, waffles, French toast and a smorgasbord of made-to-order donut toppings will do the trick to make you feel right at home.
Lastly, take a stroll through College Green. It would not feel like Welcome Weekend if you didn't make a pit stop in the heart of campus. Breathe in the air, gaze at the trees, greet the people and embrace the warm feeling that you get when you step on the green. Especially don't forget to stare at the Alumni Gateway that will remind you why you are at Ohio University in the first place.
For Bobcats like us, not much can beat the feeling you get when you go back to school in August. Athens has a way of breeding its own culture, community, lifelong friendships and a certain pride that keeps you coming back.
Welcome hOUme, Bobcats!
Rylie Brown is a sophomore studying journalism with a focus in news and information. What is your favorite place in Athens? Tweet her @RylieMarieBrown.
