Every thought you have going back to App State

‘This year I’m *definitely* getting a parking pass’

The return to Appalachian. The time of year returnees and residents open their arms to the new editions of our diverse family. Many of us will gather on Sanford, walk up and down King Street, or take a trip to the parkway to breathe in the fresh air of the High Country.

And though we may be returning for classes, we can all take a moment to appreciate our home-away-from-home. Some of those moments may include the typical, “Do I really have to adult now?” thought. Here are thoughts every one of us has when returning to Appalachian State.

Parking passes

Registering for parking passes can be both the worst and darkest moments of our lives. Each of us prays we open Appalnet soon enough to get the pass to the perfect lot.

“This year I’m definitely getting the perfect parking pass.”

“No more Appalcart for me.”

“I could always just save some money and park at *the apartment of a friend whose landlord doesn’t tow*”

“I’ll just get the pass. It’ll be more convenient.”

(incoming email) “OK. Parking registration for me is…”

“I’m sure they’ll have the pass I want by the time I register.”

(Day of registration) “OK, typing in all of my information now.” Enter. “You have got to be kidding me?”

“Only State Farm passes?”

“How is this even possible?!”

“I’ll just buy it and sell it on App State Classifieds when I find a good one.”

Packing

There are two types of packers. The over packer, who usually begins packing weeks in advance, and the minimalist packer that starts the day before. Regardless of the type you are, these are all thoughts we have:

“Alright. This year, everything is going to be neatly packed.”

“Maybe I should make a list?

“Nope.”

“I’m only going to bring a couple of boxes.”

“Should I pack this shirt? I haven’t worn it in three years.”

“Definitely should pack it, you never know.”

“Can’t forget my Chacos.”

“Oh, my Eno.”

“Definitely need athletic shorts.”

“App gear. Check”

“Maybe I could rock those black and gold stripes people wear.”

“Probably not.”

“How in the world do I have eight boxes? I’m not even halfway through.”

“I should take a break from packing.”

*three hours later* “Crap, I took too long of a break.”

“Packing sucks.”

Driving

There are only two (main) ways to get up to our slice of heaven: 421 and 321. For many of us, the drive is long but completely worth it. Here is what a typical ride up is like in our heads.

“Finally, the open, two-lane road.”

“Oh, look at the view!”

“I should take a picture for Snapchat.”

“Trees. Trees. Trees.”

“Avett Brothers.”

“RKS.”

“Eric Church.”

“Why are you going so fast?”

“Why are you going so slow?”

“Uphill both ways, for sure.”

And now, thoughts other students have contributed:

“My love/hate relationship with the stairs to the LLC.” – Colleen Mcindoe

“I can’t believe I’m paying to go to school.” – Nikki Collin

“I can’t believe I’m paying to go to school and will have to miss multiple classes again this year because my teachers have to cancel because sporting events take their parking spots.” – Delaney Nufer

“Just kinda a soft moan that progresses into a shout.” – Jeremy M. Spain

“How many times will The Rotten Appal be more on point than The Appalachian?” – Jacob Kratt

“Might get a pack of snow dogs to sled me to class in the winter.” – Dan Brake

“How many days will get cancelled because I’m snowed in my room?” – Casey Hubbard

“I wish I was going back.” – Graduate

“It’s freezing up here…” – Grad student from Florida

“I wish everyone wouldn’t come back.” – Super senior who spent the last two summers here

“Is it Birks or Chacos?” – Senior from Asheville, NC

“It’s raining…again…” – Everyone

“Can we drive to ABC in the snow?” – Graduate

“YAAAAAS.” – Lydia McGinnis

The arrival to Appalachian State University is bittersweet – bitter because we know we have a purpose to be there, but sweet because there’s no place we’d rather be. The beauty encompassed by our portion of the High Country is one like no other.

As you walk along the campus, remember to touch the Founder’s Bell for good luck and take a breather on Sanford, watching the slackliners for a bit. And remember, “Go ‘Neers.”

More
Appalachian State University